Fri, Mar 25, 2011
How did you get started in photography?
I became passionate about photography in high school after several trips across Europe. It wasn’t until several years later that I became passionate about wedding photography while researching photographers for my own wedding.
Profile photo ©Drew Carlson Photography
It was the passion in the photos and the intimate interaction that drew me to wedding photography. And it is my amazing clients that will keep me shooting weddings for a long time to come. 2011 will have us shooting probably 25 weddings and more than 400 portraits.
Who have been your influences in photography?
There are so many amazing photographers out there, and because I have been so heavily involved in the Digital Wedding Forum, I am constantly surrounded by talented shooters.
The people who make the short list of the photographers that I look up to would be: Jerry Ghionis, Marcus Bell, John Michael Cooper, Heidi Ann, and LOADS of others!
How would you define your style of photography?
For me, our business is less about the photography and more about the connection with the clients. We have FUN together, and I build lasting relationships with all of our wedding clients.
What is one thing that has helped you grow your business?
Facebook (with our 18,000 fans) has been instrumental in the success of our business. With more than $120k in revenue created off about $2,500 in FB ads, it’s been the best ROI of any marketing we have ever done.
What is one thing that has helped you grow as an artist?
Being heavily involved in the Digital Wedding Forum and reading all the tips and tricks from photographers around the world has been awesome. Also, I’ve loved going to all of their conventions and learning from the speakers there.
What is one failure that helped you grow as a business person/artist?
I fail at something every day. It’s the process of not failing at the same thing more than once that has helped me to grow.
What is one piece of advice that you would give to a person that is in the first few years of their photography business?
Network. Network. Network.
I spent a TON of time on the DWF getting to know people and building relationships with other photographers. I’m now heavily involved in several local organizations, too.
Looking for a great workshop?
Chris is hosting a workshop at his studio with EIGHT speakers on April 19/20 and it’s only $350! He’sfeaturing SMALL class sizes, and it’s ALL shooting/critique. Come learn from:
- • David Beckstead
- • John Michael Cooper
- • Chuck Arlund
- • Critsey Rowe
- • Matt Radlinski
- • John Edgar
- • Heidi Ann
- • Mario Masitti
You don’t want to miss this!
Learn more.
About Timothy John
Timothy John has written 18 articles on this blog.
Tim is the Fundy SOS marketing ninja. He loves life in Hollywood, CA where he enjoys fresh organic foods, running and studying improv comedy every chance he gets.
