Today we’d like to introduce you to Ava Grondahl.
Hi Ava, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started my journey as a photographer when I began making music videos on my iPad at 10 years old. When I decided to transition from making music videos to being a YouTube blogger, I bought my first camera at 13. I began to have more interest in photography when my Youtube Blogger goal was unsuccessful and then ended up putting the camera away when middle and high school got busy.
Then when Covid started, I was a high school senior. I wanted to find a way to make the last few moments of high school memorable since we lost out on prom, graduation, and more. I got the idea of taking cap and gown photos for seniors, and posted an ad, thinking it would be fun for me and a way to connect with other students who were going through the same thing. Within the next month I had taken over 50 students’ cap and gown photos, I made the paper, and I also made the news. Throughout the summer I started to offer senior photos, family photos, and couples photos. Eventually, I built up enough practice and had a large portfolio so I decided to file as a business six months later so I could start saving money for college. Since then, I’ve been able to grow and expand to weddings as well.
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?
One of the biggest struggles along the way was learning how to run a business at such a young age. As a photographer, it is more than just taking photos. It is learning editing and software skills, marketing strategies, accounting skills, learning efficient ways to communicate with clients, management, and so much more. Being mostly self-taught, I found myself overwhelmed quite often. I invested into some education and worked under photographers when I felt like I wanted to advance my knowledge, which helped immensely. A more recent challenge of mine is learning how to operate a business while being a nursing student.
We’ve been impressed with Ava Grondahl Photography, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
As a photographer, I cover a wide variety of types of photography. Senior photos is the highest specialty service that I provide, and I have done over 120 seniors over the past two years. I also specialize in weddings, and I offer family and headshots as well. I am located in Duluth, Minnesota, but I love to travel and I love incorporating it into my business. One thing that I love about my brand is the connections I get to make with clients, who usually turn into friends. As someone who is closer in age to seniors, I feel as I can connect with them really well and understand what they are looking for. One thing I want readers to know is that I care about more than just the photos, but the entire experience while working with me. I want clients to feel confident throughout the entire process and feel their best after working with me.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory was seeing the ocean for the first time when I was 8 years old. I’ve always loved the outdoors and I appreciate nature and all the beautiful things there are to see.
Pricing:
- Senior photos start at $300
- Weddings start at $2000
- Engagement starts at $275
- Families start at $250
Contact Info:
- Website: avagrondahlphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avagrondahlphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/avagrondahlphotography/
Image Credits
The photo of me taking a photo of the bridesmaids was taken by Olivia Shaner Photography, edited by me.
The rest of the photos were all taken and edited by me.
