Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Smart
Hi Jessica, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I began studying photography at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh in 2006. I graduated in 2010 and began my business. Unfortunately, I did was not established enough nor did I possess the business knowledge to be successful, this is when the phone camera craze took over, I shut down my business in 2014. I then decided to give it another shot, studied the business side of things and reopened my business, this time under my own name, in 2019. This time I had a much better understanding of the business side of things and have been operating since.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t been easy. I don’t typically spend a lot of money on advertising. Most of my clients are gained through word of mouth, locations where I have become a preferred vendor, and the logo on the back of my car. This typically means I have a lot of slow periods, also, I do not have a studio, so sometimes the weather can make for a miserable shoot. Mix all that with the misunderstanding of what goes into photography (it’s not just point the camera and click the shutter) and it makes for a bumpy road.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in on location portraits and weddings. I use natural lighting whenever possible and enjoy when my clients bring their silly or quirky side with them. I pride myself in the ability to work within many different lighting situations, I have even done a couple shoots in a planetarium! I love weddings, not for the money, but because I enjoy helping a couple capture their special day. Giving them memories that can last a lifetime!
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Thr best advice for networking is to use the service that you are providing. I go get my own portrait taken, usually with my husband, at least every other year. I build a report with those photographers and ask if they want referrals in case I am not available for a shoot. For other networking it is as simple as starting a conversation with the other vendors, getting to know them and what they offer. I have great relationships with officiants, DJs, catering companies, and other photographers. In turn, they send clients my way when they are in need of my services.
Pricing:
- Pricing is customized to the client.
- Pricing is determined based on length of session.
- Pricing is determined by size of session.
- Pricing is determined by length of Travel from my home.
- Client budget is considered when offering pricing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.jessicasmartphotography.com
- Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/jessicasmartphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ABLeNo1eQ/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/photojessie?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
