Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Bell.
Nicole, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
It’s the same ol’ story with a photographer…”I’ve had a camera in my hand since I can remember.” But for me, it’s true. My father owned a camera store in Philadelphia in the 80’s, and put a 110mm Kodak camera in my hands in the early 90’s. While I didn’t have an appreciation for photography then, when I think about it, a camera and I were never too far apart. It was 20 years later, when I dropped my point and shoot in the Caribbean, that I decided to pick up a DSLR. My slight interest turned into a hobby, which turned into a business, which has led me to where I am today as a wedding and portrait photographer.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The road has been pretty smooth, most of my struggle has been learning to be kind to myself. When I look back on my work from eight years ago, I cringe! But what I am most proud of are the strides I’ve made to improve each aspect of my craft. As a photographer, it is a constant work in progress. I am learning to be more forgiving, but also more intentional in my work.
Please tell us about your business.
I am a wedding and lifestyle photographer. I specialize in smaller weddings, family portraits, business/branding, and some events. When I started my business, I said I would NEVER shoot weddings. They’re anxiety provoking, crazy, wild days. AND THAT’S WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THEM! They encompass many different genres of photography: event, portrait, product, etc.
In an industry that can be quite transactional, I am most proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients. I’ve shot a couple’s wedding, and in a few years, their maternity photos, and sometime after that their family portraits. This means the most to me. Our world has become very digital, and most of our memories are now stored on phones and computers, I always encourage my clients to get their images printed, whether it’s with me or not. I want my work to live on for decades.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My friends and family deserve the most credit in this journey. I acquire most of my business by word-of-mouth. Without my tribe spreading the word, sharing my website, re-posting on social media, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I am fortunate they support me the way they do.
I am also fortunate to have been supported by the many photographers I have met along the way. Through the BLINK and Real Life Conferences, I have formed relationships with some of the most supportive and uplifting photographers whose work and dedication inspire me to be better every day.
Pricing:
- Wedding collections begin at $2200
- Lifestyle collections begin at $375
- Branding/business collections begin at $225
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nicolebrody.co/
- Email: hello@nicolebrody.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolebrody.co/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicolebrody.co
Image Credit:
DFinney Photography
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