Where Have I Been?

So, if you have been wondering what I have been up to lately, I'll fill you in.

I have taken a huge leap and jumped head first in to starting a photography business! Big deal, I know. I never thought I would be the owner of my own business, but here I am, well on my way.

It all started about a month ago. I created a Facebook business page just for kicks really. Now I have had about seven shoots, including one newborn. Not all of them paid, but shoots nonetheless. I also photographed Ashlee and Andrew's wedding. Big learning experience, but I could definitely get used to it with some more experience and practise. I have two more newborns on the way, one maternity, a couple of back-to-school and two family shoots between now and October. It has definitely picked up quickly! For my first month in business, I have got to say that I have done fairly well. I even have my own website!

www.cherishedmemoriesbyem.com

Right now I am just working on getting my name out there. I've been offering a portfolio discount to get myself started, get some shoots in to build my portfolio up. And I just have to say that I think I improve with every shoot I do. Just looking back at photos from a month ago and photos now, there is a huge improvement. And that is the goal, isn't it? To always be improving yourself and your work.

Getting my name out there isn't easy, though. Especially not with over 30-40 other photographers in the area, and several just starting to promote their businesses like me. There is a lot of competition. It is tempting sometimes to lower myself to get more business, to offer cheaper prices, to give more photos, etc. But I have to remind myself that in the end, I come out looking like the better, more professional photographer. So, I lose a few jobs because I'm not charging ridiculously low or giving 150-200 photos for each 1 hour long session. It's worth it, or it will be in the end.

I have been pretty full steam ahead with this photography business. It has evolved quite quickly. Once I decided it was what I was going to do it all happened so fast. I think I have gotten a bit ahead of myself in some respects. I do have to learn to be more patient. That A). I will not be a phenomenal photographer overnight, B). my business will not take off overnight, and C). that I will not have all of the equipment/props that I want overnight. It's going to take time, effort, and a whole lot of money.

But, it is coming and it will continue to grow. I cannot wait to see where I am this time next year.

So yeah, that and Tristan have been keeping me very busy. Tristan especially...

I seriously cannot believe the rate at which that boy is growing. Craziness.