Today we’d like to introduce you to Shanta Harper.
Hi Shanta, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Introducing The Star Prototype: Where My Passion for Photography Meets Intuitive Coaching for Real Estate Professionals
Hi, I’m Dr. Shanta Harper, and I am the founder of The Star Prototype – a unique agency that combines branding photography with personalized coaching for real estate professionals. Let me share with you how my love for photography and my expertise in real estate sales led me to create this groundbreaking company.
Photography has always been my ultimate passion – a hobby that feels more like a delightful escape than work. When I’m behind the camera, I effortlessly capture the most beautiful, genuine images of people in their natural state. It’s like a gift, one that comes to life through the lens.
Another natural skill of mine is coaching. Having spent nearly two decades in the real estate sales industry, I have experienced the ebb and flow of the market and learned valuable lessons along the way. Combining this practical experience with my doctoral studies in business and leadership has given me a unique edge in the coaching arena.
I vividly remember my early days in real estate – enjoying my twenties and full of ambition. Back then, I had no idea what I was doing, but I diligently followed the training provided and found my way. However, I felt the lack of a mentor or coach who could guide me through the challenges and uncertainties of the profession. That’s when I made a life-changing decision – to become the mentor and coach I always wished I had during my start in the business.
Understanding that new real estate agents may not fully grasp the sales and entrepreneurial aspects of their profession, I developed a coaching style deeply rooted in mentorship and empathy. I meet my clients exactly where they are, professionally and financially, helping them build a successful business they can be proud of.
During my career as a real estate agent, I often had to hire photographers to create images for my branding. While they were talented, I felt that something was missing. I’m not a model, and being in front of the camera always made me uncomfortable. The images they captured didn’t fully reflect the message I wanted to convey through my brand. I spent hours sifting through hundreds of photos, only to find a couple that I genuinely liked, and then I had to edit them myself. That’s when the idea for The Star Prototype was born – a branding photography agency that understands the need for the perfect shot, time and time again, capturing the essence of each client while encouraging them to be themselves and enjoy the process.
The Star Prototype isn’t just about photography; it’s about introducing convenience and insight to every real estate agent’s branding journey. Through a blend of branding expertise and intuitive business strategy coaching, we help our clients build a compelling personal brand and navigate the intricacies of the real estate industry with confidence.
As The Star Prototype continues to make its mark in the real estate world, I am excited about the positive impact it can have on professionals seeking exceptional branding photography and personalized coaching. By bridging the gap between creative expression and professional development, our agency aims to empower real estate agents to thrive in their careers while staying true to their authentic selves and values. Together, let’s take your real estate business to new heights with the power of captivating photography and thoughtful guidance.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In the world of entrepreneurship, I’m finding that the path to success is often filled with unexpected challenges and twists. Recently, I’ve been grappling with the impact of industry changes, particularly in the field of photography.
This year brought the introduction of AI imaging technology, which honestly caught me off guard. Seeing AI-generated images of people looking absolutely thrilled with their picture-perfect headshots and other business-related photos created right on their smartphones was a bit of a shock. It made me question how I could continue to stand out in the branding photography business, especially with the looming presence of AI-generated competition. It’s safe to say I hit a bit of a speed bump and had to take a step back to assess the situation.
However, in the midst of my concerns, I took a moment to revisit the reviews and feedback from my clients. This reflection reminded me that my approach to photography is about much more than just the visual aesthetics. It’s about forging genuine connections and relationships with my clients. More importantly, it’s about the coaching and business mentorship that I provide as part of the Star Prototype experience.
As I browse through platforms like Instagram and other social media sites, I’m heartened to see that the images I’ve captured are the ones my clients are proudly using as their profile pictures. It’s a testament to the fact that the value I bring extends beyond mere optics. It’s about the trust we’ve built, the strategic coaching, and the guidance that I offer to help them succeed in their real estate endeavors.
While the rise of AI imaging initially threw me for a loop, it ultimately reaffirmed the unique value I provide to my clients. It’s a reminder that the human touch, personalized coaching, and the relationships we nurture will always have an essential place in the business landscape.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Star Prototype Branding Photography Coaching for Real Estate Professionals?
At the core of my business lies real estate agent strategy coaching, ensuring every shoot is a purposeful step towards success. Each shoot journey begins with a thoughtful pre-strategy session, followed by a post-strategy session. Both sessions offer 90 minutes of invaluable strategy coaching, granting my clients a clear picture of the shoot’s purpose and anticipated returns before the first snapshot is taken.
In the pre-strategy session, we delve into the expected returns on investment. By asking key questions like, “What’s the purpose of your photoshoot? How will these pictures empower your goals?”, I construct a tailored action plan aligned with my client’s vision. The post-strategy session immerses us in content creation and marketing strategies that harmonize with my client’s unique business aspirations. Beyond being a photographer, I serve as a real estate business strategist and success coach.
Apart from the initial branding shoot, I’m a steadfast mentor, available to guide my clients toward ongoing triumphs on their terms. Armed with a doctoral degree in business and certified expertise in leadership, human capital strategy, and workplace behavior, I seamlessly blend my passion for business coaching with nearly two decades of real estate sales experience.
I wholeheartedly understand the vitality of networking and nurturing relationships within the real estate sphere. Hence, I present the opportunity to collaborate in a dynamic cohort format. I tell my clients, “Picture this: you, along with 2-3 fellow agents, synergistically create content while sharing insights in mastermind sessions and network-building endeavors. Together, you even star as “extras” in each other’s shoots.” This cohort option offers not only cost efficiency with discounted packages but also retains the essence of personal coaching while fostering camaraderie and peer learning on shoot days.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Coaching stands as a timeless pillar that transcends industries. Irrespective of the field, and particularly in sales, entrepreneurs reap substantial benefits from coaching and mentorship across the spectrum.
However, navigating the real estate sales industry can be intricate. The digital age has ushered in an era where numerous transactions occur online, and technology has significantly influenced our industry, especially through the convenience and impact of social media. Regardless of the evolving sales landscape, the role of a skilled salesperson, one who is an expert in the industry and adept at negotiation, remains pivotal for ensuring a successful transaction for clients. As a strategy coach, my commitment is to remain attuned to industry trends, equipping my clients with techniques that align with the ever-changing market dynamics.
In the realm of branding photography, rapid evolution is driven by technological advancements, shifts in consumer preferences, and shifts in marketing strategies. In the coming 5 to 10 years, several potential changes could reshape the industry. Two developments that capture my attention are the emergence of AI-generated content creation and the integration of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), which could revolutionize the way clients engage with branding content. As clients increasingly seek immersive experiences, photographers who can craft three-dimensional content might become particularly sought after, ushering in a new level of engagement and interaction.
Amidst this constantly shifting landscape, adaptability is paramount. Continuous learning about emerging technologies will be essential. My focus remains steadfast on the unique value I offer as a real estate business strategist and success coach. By providing a comprehensive approach that integrates coaching, mentorship, and photography, I aim to thrive and make a lasting impact in the ever-evolving branding photography industry.
Pricing:
- Essential Branding Shoot ($299): Includes a 90 Minute Photoshoot, Up to Three Looks, Pre-shoot Strategy Session, Pose Guide Private Online, Photo Gallery w/Unlimited Photo Downloads, Behind the Scenes Reel, and Post-shoot Business Strategy Session
- Luxury Branding Shoot ($599): Includes a 3 Hour Photoshoot, Unlimited Looks, Pre-shoot Strategy Session, Pose Guide, Private Online Photo Gallery, Up to 2 locations, Content Calendar, Unlimited Photo Downloads, Behind the Scene Reel Intro Reel or Interview and Post-Shoot Business Strategy Session
- Cohort Branding Shoot ($375pp): Includes everything in the Luxury Branding Shoot package.
- Momentum Coaching Package for New Agents ($999): Includes 3 Months of business strategy coaching to kickstart in the real estate sales industry, monthly photoshoot (3), marketing and content calendar, and accountability coaching
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thestarprototype.com
- Instagram: star_prototype
Image Credits
All photos were taken and edited by Shanta Harper of The Star Prototype RE Branding Photography & Coaching
