Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Shannon.
Hi Amy, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Since I was young, I’ve always been interested in film and photography. The summer going into my senior year of high school, I got my first real digital camera. Earlier that summer, I had been asked to take a friend’s senior photos. Once I got my new camera, I offered to take another friend’s photos, and upon seeing my previous work, she hired me! Later that year, I took another friend’s senior photos.
Meanwhile, I had been taking a graphic design class that allowed me to practice my photography skills and learn some new editing techniques. I took pictures of my siblings and friends and grew to love the art more daily. While in college, I decided that I would like to take my senior portrait skills to the next level and start a small business. I put a portfolio together for a campus job I was applying for, came up with a name and a logo, and put together a pricing model. I started promoting my service on social media and even created some flyers to hang up around town. While my photography business is still young, I am excited to keep working and watch it grow.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I haven’t been immune to bumpy roads while starting my photography business, but what small business owner ever is? One of the hardest parts about starting a business is getting yourself out there and known, even if it means driving all over town with your mom to hang up flyers. The biggest thing I’ve had to learn through this process is how important it is not to compare your business with others. Sure, there will always be someone better or more experienced, but your business is unique because of what you bring to the table, and you can’t validate your work by comparing it with someone else’s. I am a photographer because I love it, and once I stopped comparing my work to everyone else’s, I started loving my business the way I love art.
We’ve been impressed with Amy Shannon’s Photos, 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?
Amy Shannon Photos is a photography service that specializes in portrait photography. My services are known for taking high school senior photos. What sets my service apart from others is the freedom of the student to access all of the photos taken at their session for a very reasonable price. I take unlimited photos at each session, after which the client can choose to have them edited/enhanced. I’m committed to making every session quality and personalized experience for my clients. I am a college student and have been in their shoes before. I strive to offer an affordable option for my clients, whether they are looking for a yearbook picture or an updated profile picture!
Pricing:
- 1 Session = $100
- Keep all photos = $100
- Keep select photos = $50
- Editing = $25
Contact Info:
- Website: https://amyshannonsportfolio.wixsite.com/my-site-4
- Instagram: amyshannonphotos
Image Credits
Kate, Gracie, Alexa, John
