Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristal Hacker.
Kristal, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Hacker Medias Photography and More was formed, May of 2013. I was on medical leave from work after having my first child which gave me a break mentally to think about what I wanted to do career-wise. I graduated from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Communications and thought to myself, “What am I going to do with this degree?!” I did not have a love for the print management field and knew I had to figure something out after obtaining this expensive degree! After praying and waiting for an answer, the company, Hacker Medias, was put on my heart.
The company name came formed by combining my last name, Hacker, with all of the different services I wanted to offer. I condensed it down to, Medias, which would cover each service. So there it is, Hacker Medias! Starting out, I offered: Graphic Design, Videography, and Photography. As time went on my passion for graphic design faded and I narrowed down my services to Photography & Videography. The growth of the company really took place once I began narrowing down my true passions and niche.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The road has not been easy, which I never expected it to be. I started this company when my first child was six months old. I was a new wife, new mom, full-time job employee and a business owner. Figuring out how to be present and offering my best in each of these roles is a learning curve by itself and I chose to add my own small business to the mix! I had a lot of support but I also had the “well why won’t you wait until later,” comments.
I’ve never been one to fold or give up and now was not the time. I struggled with balancing my time, saying no, and having a workflow for myself. Like I mentioned before I jumped in offering every skill I had, with no business structure. If someone asked for a service, I said yes! That eventually led to burnout. I was moving at my own pace and not the pace God had set for me when He first placed the vision in my heart. Pacing myself, creating a workflow, and remaining consistent has resulted in so many positive changes in my company within the last year.
Hacker Medias – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We specialize in Wedding & Lifestyle Photography. I am proud of the growth that has been made in the last year. I’ve become more personable with my #Yougothacked family. Building genuine relationships with my newlyweds & families is very important to me. I have an opportunity to share what I have learned in marriage over the years and just family life in general. I’m not just there to capture their memories on that day. I want to see their marriages last. I want them to be happily married! I hope that any advice I can share in my moments with them can be used to strengthen their union. My job is so much more than taking a picture-perfect moment.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Fulfillment & purpose is how I define success. My belief is that Jesus has placed gifts within me for a reason greater than myself. When I photograph people, I can show them what I see when I look at them. If my photos can build a person’s confidence, show a family just how much love there is between them, etc; I have done my part. If the pep talks I have during a photography session can leave a lasting impression, I’ve done my part. If my journey inspires the next person to work harder and not give up, then I’ve done my part. I’m all about inspiring myself and others to be all that God has called them to be. Sometimes we just need a reminder and to see how others see us. Being the best version of myself and pushing others to do the same is my definition of success.
Pricing:
- Wedding Photography starts at $1,900
- Family Sessions start at $200
- Business Branding Sessions start at $250
- Videography starts at $300
Contact Info:
- Address: 7011 Shallowford Road
Suite 205
Chattanooga, TN 37421
*By Appointment Only - Website: www.hackermedias.com
- Phone: 423-693-8606
- Email: Krishacker@hackermedias.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/Kris_HackerMedias
- Facebook: Facebook.com/HackerMedias
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