Today we’d like to introduce you to Raven Bell.
Raven, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My photography career began six and a half years ago when my cousin had just gotten engaged and needed engagement photos. Since I had such a creative mind, my mom said she had a camera and suggested we go out and take pictures. I had no idea what I was doing lol but we created props and coordinated their outfits and set out to take pictures. The joy that came from creating those memories and having fun really struck a passion I didn’t know I had. I had always seen myself becoming a buyer for a department store and then becoming a Fashion Designer. I loved everything fashion and I learned how to sew, tailor, etc. while in high school and in college. Well, let’s just say I never made it to becoming that buyer or Fashion Designer.
My career path took a different route but I found that photography allows me the freedom to be as creative as my mind will allow me to be. Seeing the smiles on my clients’ faces is what really keeps me going. I specialize in Seniors mostly because the spark a hidden excitement and I didn’t have a memorable photo experience when I graduated from high school or college so I want to give those clients the experience I didn’t have. My vision for my business is to offer a catered experience for High School/College Seniors and Individuals that allows them to show up confidently in front of the camera while empowering them to courageously step into and conquer the next chapter of their lives.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t say there have been struggles instead, I will say there definitely has been some learning experiences over the past six years. Some of those learning experiences include how to set a solid foundation, identifying how your business is unique and what sets you apart from others, running a photography studio and everything that goes into it and just learning the clerical side of things that outside people don’t see. Every obstacle or challenge to me is an opportunity to learn.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about RavenB Photography – what should we know?
I specialize in Senior and Individual Photography. I have experience in different types of photography, such as weddings, children, product, real estate, just to name a few. I choose those two to specialize in because I like the one on one interaction between me and my client. Having that one on one interaction allows me to be able to create an impact in my clients life whether it’s helping them build confidence during their photoshoot or giving advice to a Senior who’s about to enter college or the real world because I have experienced both.
I am proud of how much my business has grown during this pandemic. I just knew things wouldn’t be the same but I have gotten more business in the last two months than expected. The thing that makes my business unique and sets me apart is I provide a session reminder to all clients who book with me. A session reminder is a custom-designed gift that I give to clients that will always remind them of the catered experience they received.
I am told by family and friends that I always give meaningful, creative and thoughtful gifts, so I decided to implement that into my business. The look and expressions on my client faces when they receive their gifts are priceless! So not only do they get a photographer, they get a creative designer as well. 🙂 So, yes, I’m the photographer who gives gifts lol…which is a shocker to most people, but it works for my business.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
The thing that’s most important to my success is the connection I build with my clients and potential clients. My audience love when you speak their language and what’s better than working with someone who connects with you?
Contact Info:
- Address: Birmingham, AL
- Website: www.ravenbphotography.com
- Phone: 205.578.9487
- Email: hello@ravenbphotography.com
- Instagram: @_ravenbphotography
- Facebook: @Ravenbphotography
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