Small Business Story Series - Interview with Lori Renee Photography

Are you considering starting your own business?

Do you love to hear about stories of how others pursued their dreams to start a successful small business?

We are excited to announce a new blog series to share those stories! Periodically we will plan to share our discussions with small business owners to help and inspire others to pursue their passions! If you are interested in sharing your story with us for consideration in a future blog posting, please send us an email at: itsallaboutthehow@gmail.com.

This past week I had the privilege of sitting down with a friend of mine, LoriRenee from LoriRenee Photography to hear her small business story.

How long have you been in business?

LoriRenee: I discovered my love for photography about 10 years ago while my daughter was still playing Lacrosse. The opportunity to "freeze the action" with photography was exciting. I started receiving more and more compliments on my images and people wanting to purchase the photos. That’s when I began to really study the craft of photography and attending shows where I could sell my prints. I then shifted from sports and landscapes to portraits and started LoriRenee Photography in 2018.

What did you do before photography?

LoriRenee: Most of my career prior to photography was in human resources. I love working with and helping people. My experience in human resources helps me connect with my clients today. I appreciate getting to know them and hearing their stories. It's a privilege for me to be involved in the special moments of their lives and helping them to "freeze the action.”

What do you love the most about your business?

LoriRenee: It's definitely the people. Getting to know them and helping them capture their moments is special to me. I'm also a lifelong learner and appreciate the opportunities to learn about new locations and venues. I invest a significant amount of time researching locations prior to meeting with my clients to ensure they get the best product possible.

What photography services do you offer?

LoriRenee: The majority of my bookings currently are for weddings, which I love because I have so much more time with people, and getting to know my clients is the best! And weddings are expected to increase by 20 to 25% in the next year! I also provide senior photos, family portraits, and headshots for professionals for their business cards or LinkedIn.

Photo Rights: LoriRenee Photography

How do you market your business?

LoriRenee: A lot of my business comes from word of mouth and referrals. I do have a website and Facebook page and I'm involved in Facebook groups for weddings. I'm also on LinkedIn and a wedding site called Zola. I offer a discount for family and friends. I'm hoping to start blogging more in the upcoming year to share my knowledge with those looking to capture special moments.

What are your biggest challenges as a small business owner?

LoriRenee: For me, finding the time to consistently market my business is tough. Writing a weekly blog, for instance, takes time and expertise. I know it's important for my website SEO, although my resources to get it done outside of the time I spend on my clients is limited.

What piece of advice do you have for others considering starting their own business?

LoriRenee: It’s very important to collaborate with others and try to find a mentor. Do as much research as possible and find great small business resources to help you. Most importantly love what you do.

Learn more about the beautiful images LoriRenee creates at her website at https://www.lorireneephoto.com/

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At It's All About the How Marketing Consulting we offer expert marketing support and practical tools to help improve your brand awareness and results. We can help with all aspects of your small business or non-profit marketing needs from developing strategic marketing plans to weekly blog content. You can reach us at itsallaboutthehow@gmail.com or check out our website at www.itsallaboutthehow.com.