Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Karli Foster, Co-Founder of Hyperblack Studios, located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I run a full-service e-commerce photo studio in downtown Los Angeles catering to brands that need an alternative to in-house content creation. We work with mid to enterprise-level brands that need consistent brand-driven imagery for their product pages and supporting marketing channels. Brands that struggle with managing high-volume content come to us to streamline their process and produce more content in less time.
Tell us about yourself
I've worked almost 20 years in the industry, and I absolutely love the balance of creative and logistical it takes to run a high-volume photo studio. I believe it all starts with having the right people and the right environment to create a truly collaborative and productive space, and that's what creates the best content and the best client partnerships.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is building the best team in the industry. Many years of experience have helped me build relationships that have stood the test of time and came back around once I started my own business. Your credibility and relationships are critical and will follow you through your career, so even if you're just starting out, know that everything you put into your work and relationships now will pay off down the road.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The most difficult thing about owning a business is the many hats you have to wear when you get started. Learning everything from permits to taxes to your P&L, you can be pulled in many different directions and pulled away from doing what you love. In the end, though, I think it's absolutely worth it, and learning all these new skills is a great opportunity for growth!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Put people first. You will be limited in growth without an incredible team.
- Educate yourself on all aspects of your business, from finances to HR, and don't be afraid to get help when you've hit a wall. You will make better decisions if you have a complete understanding of your business.
- Know what you do best, and don't spread yourself too thin with services or products that you know nothing about. It's OK to venture out into new territory but not without some good research and thought before you do.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.hyperblackstudios.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hyperblackstudios/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hyperblack-studios/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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