The Behind the Lens Series is a Q&A photographer feature that highlights accomplished and talented photographers from around the world. This week our guest is Katie Lamb, Katie Lamb Photography.
Katie is a professional family photographer and business educator based in Dallas, Texas.
What’s in your camera bag?
Canon 5D Mark IV, Canon 50mm (and backups for each!) and lens hood – I keep it minimal!
WHAT TYPES OF SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?
Various Online Courses for professional photographers, Brand Partnerships, and Limited family photography sessions.
YOU HAVE 30-SECONDS TO DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS….GO!
I am a professional photographer and educator who is passionate about helping other small business owners create successful and sustainable businesses through online courses and mentorships. I also run a home DIY and lifestyle blog.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS?
When I was 17, my family adopted two baby girls from China, and it rocked my world. The Lord used it to ignite a passion in me for international missions and orphan outreach, and I decided I wanted to use my photography skills to work with various mission groups around the world. I went on to major in Fine Art Photography at Baylor University and spent time in Asia, Africa, and Western and Eastern Europe doing just that. While doing this, I also started my own photography business in the US and fell in love with photographing families and little ones. It was through this that I developed a passion for all things business and helping others succeed as too often there is more focus placed on the photography side and not enough focus on the business side!
If your brand had a personality, how would you describe it?
Professional, Intentional, Loving.
Who are your business heros?
Donald Millar for sure! His books and podcast have truly transformed by business.
share 3 adjectives that describe you personally:
Driven, Efficient, Focused (Obviously, I’m an Enneagram 3 – haha!)
share 3 adjectives that describe your photography style:
what year was your first paid session and how much did you charge for it?
It’s hard to remember as I started my business over 13 years ago; however, I want to say it was around $200!
what one action caused you to see the most growth in your business?
Being intentional with each and every client and giving them a client experience they couldn’t help but talk about!
how did you know when to “quit your day job” and go full-time with photography?
I went full-time with photography from day one. I have never had a corporate job. =)
when did you feel like you “made it” as a photographer?
When I realized I had created a business that allowed me to support my husband and myself while also putting him through law school debt free!
what is one think you know now that you wish you knew when you started your business?
You are a BUSINESS OWNER first. Photographer second.
What is your professional purpose?
Education: My purpose is to help those who feel defeated and lost and point them in the right direction to take their business to whatever heights they want it to be.
Photography: I want to create images that make people FEEL. I want to capture the beautiful fleeting moments of young families for them to pass down through generations.
what is your hardest task in running a small business?
Juggling all the things (in conjunction with motherhood).
what is your favorite ice cream?
Bluebell Butter Pecan!
what is the one thing you’re most likely to end up in jail for?
NOTHING! I am a major rule follower :).
Thank you katie lamb photography for a wonderful, fun, and insightful look into your photography business journey!
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