Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kaylee Parry, owner of Kay Renee Images, located in Billings, MT, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My photography business is Kay Renee Images. I specialize in photographing the journey of motherhood, maternity, birth, newborn, and family.
Tell us about yourself
For as long as I can remember, I've wanted to have a camera in my hands. I went from taking my dad's cameras to begging for cameras on my birthdays to eventually saving up and buying my first "real" camera right out of high school. I first got started in my business when I wanted a way to help make ends meet for my family. When I became a single mother, it became a main source of income to support myself and my kids. I'm motivated and inspired by reminding mothers how beautiful they are and empowering them to be IN photos with their kids instead of always being the ones to photograph them. as a mother myself, I know it's so easy to always be the one taking pictures and harder to get in them. I want to remind women that, despite how they may feel, their identity and appearance have changed since becoming a mother. They're beautiful, and so are their stories.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I feel my biggest accomplishment is being able to do something I've always been so passionate about while being able to support my family.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is "comparison." I live in a very saturated market for photographers full of so many talented people, and it's really difficult not to compare myself and my skills to others. At the end of the day, though, we're each so unique and can provide something different for each of our clients.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
If someone were looking to start a business, I'd encourage them to have clear goals in mind before jumping in - why are you starting the business? What do you want to accomplish short-term and long-term? I'd also suggest finding a mentor in the same field and learning the ins and outs of the business and the skill. Mentors are incredibly valuable, and so is getting some hands-on experience before diving into business. Another important thing is to remember how valuable community is. There's a cliche saying: "community over competition," but it's so important to remember. Getting to know the others in your field and being able to work alongside one another rather than competing with one another goes a long way.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.kayreneeimages.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kayreneeimages
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayrenee_images/
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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