Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma Dobbertin
Hi Emma, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I originally started with film photography in the darkroom of my High School, Firestone, in Akron Ohio. Art, in one form or another, has been a part of my life since I can remember. I pursued a degree in photo illustration at Kent State University for 3 years before switching my major to Biology (I ALWAYS wanted to work with animals). After getting a 4 year biology degree in 1.5 years I worked various animal welfare jobs. I worked at animal sanctuaries, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, the Cleveland Animal Protective League, and even a vet clinic. After winning a Halloween costume contest my husband (strongly) urged me to use the prize winnings to buy a professional camera and start a business. 8.5 years later and I’m still going strong. We started a family a few years into starting my business and it has allowed me to quit my previous job and work full-time for myself. Although I loved working with animals, beginning my own business has been lifechanging for both me and my family. I still find ways to work with animals through volunteering etc. but I do not regret taking this path.
Alright, 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?
It has not been smooth road. I have an amazing client base and support system that has helped along the way. The main struggles I have encountered arose during the pandemic. I found out I was pregnant with my second about 4 months before the world shut down. As with everyone else who was impacted by the pandemic I had to navigate the new terrain and adjust my priorities accordingly. I made the decision to no longer photograph weddings. My husband was my second photographer and it was not sustainable to have both of us working events with two young children at home all during a global pandemic. I scaled back and instead focused my energy on my family and primarily photographing families, portraits, and commercial work. Everything that has cropped up I have taken in stride and gotten through with the support of my husband (who is also my tech support). The biggest ongoing struggle I deal with is finding a healthy work life balance… hopefully I’ll get it down one day.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am the owner of Little Bit Perfect which is photography company based in Lakewood, Ohio. The bulk of my work primarily focuses around families from maternity ongoing milestones. Additionally I do commercial work ranging from product photography to headshots and even complete website updates. I am most proud of the relationships I have built with my clients over the years. The business success I have had is a testament to those relationships and friendships that I have built. One of the things that sets me apart from others is my ability work with people and find what they need to connect. I believe that the images I take are “technically” mine BUT the memories belong to my clients. I can’t limit myself to only deliver a few images if I know it could be a memory that they will cherish forever.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up I was fairly quiet and described as an old soul. I had a wide range of interests and found myself to be good at a lot of different things. I loved animals and was surrounded by art and creativity through school.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alittlebitperfect.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/little_bit_perfect
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/littlebitperfect
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/little-bit-perfect-lakewood
- Other: https://goo.gl/maps/KoSMGHFCWBA2
