Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tifanee Gladney, founder of Tglad Photography, located in Baltimore, MD, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Tglad Photography specializes in capturing moments that people want to cherish forever. I photograph a wide range of events and occasions, including birthdays, brand photography, corporate headshots, portraits, glamour shots, parties, fashion shoots, editorial shoots, and everything in between. I spend time with each customer to personalize the photoshoot to their needs and wants to deliver images that they will truly enjoy.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Tifanee, and I've been into photography for over 15 years. I graduated from The University of Maryland Baltimore County with a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts- Concentration in Photography, so I take the craft very seriously! I started shooting 35mm film images of things in my everyday life, and I found a love of capturing 'ordinary' moments in a way that shows a hidden beauty. The camera has become my voice in a lot of ways, so I feel it's very important to continue to capture the world through my eyes so my story can be told.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
One of my biggest accomplishments to date is being able to travel and be a photographer in international photo shoots. I've also been published in local print works and online sites and have had my work featured in local exhibits. Any chance I have to showcase my art on a larger scale is an accomplishment to me! Most recently, I've had work displayed in a well-known restaurant chain local to the DMV area Busboys and Poets.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Finding new motivation has been difficult, especially in the times we are in now. It is easy to get discouraged and want to quit or pause on your business, but it's important to keep going. There are absolutely going to be obstacles and hurdles to overcome, but it is important to keep working, growing, and putting effort into your business. The rewards will come!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Get started! If you have an idea, but you think it's not ready, or you think that you are not ready, do it anyway. Just starting the process is the most important step.
- Always be willing to learn and adjust. New ideas and concepts can be born overnight, and it's important to be able to keep up. Take a class to hone your skill or learn a new business model. Always be open to accepting new ideas and using them to benefit you and your business.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help. Everyone will need some assistance here and there, and people are ready and willing to help. There has been more of a 'community over competition mindset forming, so find someone in your field and ask for help if you need it!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.tgladphoto.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tgladphoto
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tgladphoto/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tgladphoto
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tifanee-gladney-18016393/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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