Today we’d like to introduce you to Melinda Harkley.
Hi Melinda, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve been a hobbyist since I was a pre-teen; taking pictures of family, friends, special occasions, vacations, school activities and church events. My love for pictures started when I was a child. When we visited my grandparents, they would get their photo albums out to share with us the memories or introduce the people in the pictures. I’ve always enjoyed taking pictures and creating my own albums over the years.
In August 2019, I joined The Shooters International Camp (a Photography/Videography Business Education Course) to improve my photography skills and learn videography. I launched my business on September 23, 2019 after completing shooters camp.
I’ve been in business since 2019 and have loved every bit of it. I’ve met so many wonderful people and collaborated with other entrepreneurs, small business owners, and vendors. I am excited for what lies ahead for me as I strive to take my business to the next level.
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?
I started my business shortly after losing my mom to pancreatic cancer in July 2019. It helped me to cope and to keep moving forward. Exactly Six months later (January 2020), I lost my sister to metastatic breast cancer. Focusing on my business, although difficult at the time, helped me through the grieving process and continues to help me to keep moving forward with my life; as I know my mom and sister would want me to. Shortly after losing my sister, the pandemic hit. Fortunately, my business has continued to thrive in spite of the pandemic.
In Life and in Business, I’ve had many challenges. I’ve learned to ride the waves (all businesses have their highs and lows) and to pivot when necessary. I’ve adopted the mindset of “learning as I grow” and taking one day at a time. Photography and videography require continuous practice and the willingness to think outside of the box at times (creativity is a must). Consistency and persistence are key.
When sessions don’t go as I hoped, I review my work, learn from my mistakes, and continue to seek improvement. I also had to learn the operations side of the business – tracking income and expenses, marketing, customer service, etc. The key is to remain consistent and not give up during the slow seasons. I am not afraid to admit that I don’t know it all. I am STILL “learning as I grow”. I don’t pressure myself to be perfect. I just do my best with each session or event, learn from my mistakes and do it differently the next time. Excellent customer service is crucial. I strive to give my clients the respect, attention, and service they deserve and that I would want for myself. I try to learn from more experienced photographers/videographers in the industry. However, I don’t try to copy them. I stay in my own lane and do what’s comfortable for me and my business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I provide lifestyle portrait sessions for individuals and families, Branding sessions for small businesses and entrepreneurs and photography/videography services for weddings and events.
I enjoy providing photography to individuals and families to help them capture special moments (such as birthdays, maternity sessions, the birth of children, graduations, holidays, etc.) and preserve their family memories.
Also, I enjoy weddings and being a part of the couple’s special day. As their photographer, I get to know the couples and they get to know me during their engagement session. I become an active participant in planning their special day by connecting with the wedding planners/coordinators and other vendors. Together, we all have the responsibility to ensure the couples’ wedding day is perfect and memorable.
Lastly, I am also passionate about working with small businesses and entrepreneurs by offering branding sessions to help promote and grow their brands/businesses. I’ve recently launched a 2nd business to expand upon my Branding services…. Prestigious Business Concierge (@prestigiousbusinessconcierge) offers virtual admin support and social media management services to entrepreneurs and business owners. My goal and desire are to build long-term relationships with my clients to serve all their future photography/videography needs.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I think the outlook for photographers will continue to grow with more and more opportunities becoming available. However, the competition is stiff. The photographers that stand out will be those who provide great service coupled with quality work; they will be the most successful! That is what I continuously strive for.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://melindaharkley.smugmug.com/
- Instagram: http://Www.instagram.com/Melindaharkleyphotography
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/MelindaHarkleyPhotography
- Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-harkley-1b653315
