Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Izenady.
Hi Mike, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I come from a family line of photographers, and have been around photography since birth. My Father is a graduate from New York Institute of Photography, and my Uncle is a retiree of Kodak after 20+ years of service. I received my first camera (Kodak KB28 35mm) at the age of 10 (that I still have), and I’ve been taking pictures since! Fast forward to the day after Thanksgiving in 2010, I purchased my first DSLR Camera (Nikon d3000) and decided to turn my hobby into a professional hobby/business and Mike Iz Photography was born! I started to take online courses, attend free classes that were offered at Wolf Camera at that time. I started to my pro career doing event photography for parties, family gatherings, baby showers, etc… I connected with my mentor of 10 years Mark Lee of Mark Lee Photography at an event, and he’s played an integral part of my growth and development over the years. Now I’ve expanded into doing more studio sessions whether it be headshots sessions, birthday sessions, or family portraits.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been a roller coaster! However, it’s nothing big to a GIANT. There were times when I had to ride the wave of not having my phone to ring, and not be booked for at times weeks on in. I would have to get more creative of my offerings and products. I also had to learn more about marketing as well.
The bulk of my business was from referrals, and word of mouth. So I had to put myself out there so to speak, so I would be able to remain relevant in this competitive industry. Over the years it became more prevalent that digital cameras started to be the norm and anyone could purchase one today, and all of a sudden open up shop. So I had to pivot to stay in the game so to speak.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a professional photographer in the Atlanta area, that specializes in event photography, portraits, headshots, and weddings. I’m known for my big personality, my charm, and getting you comfortable to get you at your true self through my lens. Also, getting deliverables to my clients within a considerable timeframe. What I am most proud of is the honor and privilege to capture beauty through my lens and my clients’ reaction when the final product is delivered. What sets me apart is my personable approach I take with my clients, having them to talk me through their vision, and me exceeding their expectations. When they book me they will be getting 110% of what I have, and the results will show and prove.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
People can feel free to like my Facebook Page, and my contact info is located there as well. I respond to all correspondences within a few hours (even on weekends).
Contact Info:
- Email: mikeiz@mikeizphotography.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/MikeIzPhotography
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/MikeIzPhotography
Image Credits:
Joffre Lester (Charlie Shutter Speed Photography)
Mike Izenady (Mike Iz Photography)
