Erin is one of those women who makes you look twice. Whether it's her sweet, alluring smile that draws you in or her approachable, almost palpable warmth, she's someone that both men and women want be around. I think it also has something to do with the fact that she seems to see life through rose colored glasses; not annoying rose glasses, hip, stylish ones that you wish you had on. Which is why to me, it makes perfect sense that she's a super successful self-made photographer. And lucky for us! In her photos we get to see the simple yet beautiful moments of life from her lovely perspective. I'd say her photos are a lot like her…enjoy!
How did you get started with your photography business:
My husband, Kenny, gave me a nice, used camera 3 years ago for Christmas and said I think you will enjoy this. I was taking a lot of pictures with my point and shoot and was obsessed with the pictures I was taking. I had never said I wanted to be a photographer some day, I just started taking more and more pictures with my new camera and it evolved.
How did you get your first client:
People had told me I should be a photographer, that I took great photos. So Kenny and I went out to dinner one night and I had too much wine and decided I was going to start a business. That night, I got on Facebook and created a business and told friends I was offering $50 sessions for anyone that would book. I booked 15 people that fall.
What does a typical day look like for you:
My days are always different. I do a lot of work while the kids nap and at night. I haven't watched TV in 2 years, but I sit with Kenny after the kids go to bed and work on my laptop. I love it so much that it doesn't feel like work…except when deadlines approach.
What's the hardest part of running your own business:
The business stuff, which is 80% of it. The pictures are only 20%.
What do you think makes you a good photographer:
I capture real expressions and real moments and I try to find the quirkiness in people. I'm always trying to capture authenticity. My husband thinks it helps that I have good taste and a strong sense of style (Green & Plenty agrees and is a major reason why I booked her for a personal shoot and use those photos on the blog often ;). I've always been looking for something to channel that love for style. Maybe I found it.
I look at other photography blogs but then I'll have an idea and see that someone has already done it. I don't want to be a copier, but it's impossible not to get inspiration from other artists. If you create something in your own way, it's not copying…steal like an artist!
What advise do you have for someone who wants to start her own business:
Trust your instincts. And know that it's not going to fall into your lap. The more you put yourself out there, network, promote yourself etc., the more you'll get in return.
What are your short and long term goals:
I would love to photograph for ads. I'm very interested in exploring commercial photography.
Do you think your business changes who/how you are as a mom:
I think it makes me more confident and I like that my kids are seeing me be successful by working hard at something. Kenny is also so proud, supportive and a great cheerleader.
I love that this already amazing and busy mother of 4 darling and sweet children started her own successful business with guts, talent and a passion (and a supportive husband and family who she is in turn inspiring)! If you read this blog, you've seen some of Erin's photos already here, here and here, many taken during a session we did with her a few months ago. She couldn't have been more wonderful to work with and she captured my boys so perfectly and made us all feel relaxed and natural…I can't wait to use her again! For more of Erin's photos, check out her beautiful website and blog (she writes the sweetest letters to her children complete with more adorable photos…she's inspired me to try doing this too). And be sure to like her Facebook Page for updates and loads more inspiration!
Congrats on your success, Erin! Well deserved my friend...
Again, Heather...I can't thank you enough. I am so honored! XOXO
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