Today we’d like to introduce you to Catie Hadro.
Hi Catie, 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 never ever thought I’d start my own business. Not in a million years. I ended up here because after starting my career first in sales, then in higher education, I realized how much I cared about being passionate in my work. I’m not motivated by climbing the corporate ladder, I care the most about enjoying my life on the day to day. I’m motivated by waking up on Monday morning feeling excited about the work I get to do. I’ve always loved being creative, but I never thought I would be able to do something creative in work. I went to school for communication studies, but minored and graphic design. Little did I know the graphic design would be so helpful in photo editing now.
I bought my first camera during my undergrad, just to take photos for fun of me, my friends, and the beautiful landscape of La Crosse WI, where I was living at the time. In the beginning, I was posting these photos for fun, and then some of my friends wanted photos for Christmas cards, some friends needed engagement photos, and slowly it snowballed into more casual shoots. I was doing it really casually for a while, and wasn’t planning on making it anything more. It was quickly after the pandemic started I was handed plenty more time during my week because just like many, I was sent to work from home for the foreseeable future.
With all the extra time not commuting to downtown (and when we were all in lock down), I was given the opportunity to dive deep into creating better work, building a portfolio, and found so much joy in it. I started doing tons of free sessions to practice, started listening to hours upon hours of business podcasts, and of course, watched days of youtube videos. It’s because of the free education out there I was able to build as fast I did. 2020 was the year I decided to pursue photography as more than a hobby, and now in 2022 I have 20+ wedding clients I am so thrilled to work with! I am so grateful to have made the progress I have so far, and am pumped for the future clients I get to work with.
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?
Overall, it’s been more exciting than anything. Taking the financial leap to invest in gear was definitely a hard decision to make, but it was easier since I maintained my full time job while I started. I am constantly working on the fear of disappointing my clients. I am naturally, a severe people pleaser, so I have a hard time with that still. I try to create my best work, and provide an exceptional experience to my clients…but it still haunts me!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a photographer specializing in couples and weddings! I LOVE love. So weddings are…pretty much a dream. I’m known for my editing style, which has been described as natural, romantic, warm, soft and nostalgic.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
This may sound strange, but I feel mentored by people I’ve never met! There is a handful of wedding photographers I follow that post consistently not only about their business and what they do, but also their struggles and wins, client processes, editing workflows, financing, market, and so much more. I have discovered so much wisdom and knowledge just from educators online and in the podcast world. It’s because of them, I’ve been able to start on the right foot. As for networking, specifically in the wedding industry, it’s so good to introduce yourself to the other vendors. You never know what other events you will be seeing them at in the future. As a general rule, build good relationships and have a great first impression with EVERYONE you meet. I’ve gained wedding clients just because someone I met and knew for 2 minutes referred me. Good connections are everything.
Contact Info:
- Email: catiehadrophotography@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.catiehadrophotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catiehadro/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catiehadrophotography
Image Credits
Catie Hadro Photography
