Reflections of 2012
A Year in review. Yes it's been a busy year for us all and while it's hard to believe 2013 is just hours away, so much has happened for us all. New homes, new babies, milestones and some hardships too. What we must never forget is how Blessed we are. To live in a free country, to have food on the table and a roof over our head. Life has a way of throwing us a wrench at times but knowing we are strong and faithful, we bounce back.
I am thankful for each and every newborn,maternity and family session I was able to capture memories for this year has been nothing shy of amazing! Durham Region and Toronto parents, thank you SO much for choosing Petra King Photography. Can't wait for 2013!
Happy New Year!
xo
"You are never too old to set another goal or dream a new dream."
C.S. Lewis
Top 5 things when starting a newborn home business
Are you thinking of starting a newborn home business? Maybe you have and are feeling overwhelmed? Rest assured we all felt like that at some point in our career. We still do come to think of it. Running your own business from home is a lot of work! Here are some things that will help you get started and steer you in the right direction.
1. Being Organized
Everyone needs some sort of organizational flow. This will help you keep on track with things, prepare you for your day and help you through the unexpected issues or dilemma's that arise. Use a calendar, keep track of your personal and business schedules separately. Make a mental checklist of what is needed for your sessions, props, what lens you will be using, lightsource,posing etc so that as you are setting up you can walk yourself through your session to keep yourself focused.
2. Work/Home Balance
Do I hear laughing? At times it is stressful and very frustrating, however remember that your family must come first. This may mean working into the wee hours of the night at times, but it is can be done. Again, being organized plays a HUGE part. If you are not organized, the domino effect will quickly turn your week upside down. Those of you who have children at school during the day, schedule your appointments, sessions and editing time around school hours. For those of you with little ones, early morning hours or after bedtime/naptime may be where you need to be focusing to get things done. Try not to get ahead of yourself with unrealistic daily goals. Aim for 1-2 things to be done. If you manage more...high five to you! That's awesome!
3. Create exceptional service
Okay so you've taken the plunge now what? You have some sessions under your belt, building your portfolio and earning some money. Great! But your business along with countless others in your area offer the same thing. So what are you going to do about it? Well, at the end of the day, anyone can be a photographer. It does however boil down to you. Your style, your originality, your professionalism and not the just service you offer but an experience. Create an experience that will be beautiful lasting memories for any new parent.
4. Know your products
Whether you offer one product or 10, selling your products to your clients needs to be an enjoyable one. Pushy sales stink let's face it. Guide your client and get to know them. Likes,needs and must have's! Know your products. research your vendors and test them out yourself! It's your job to do that. At the end of the day if you are not confidant with it don't offer it! You need to represent what works best for you and your business. Life is full of choices these days. Market yourself well and you will attract the niche that you are aiming for.
5. K.I.S.S Rule (keep it simple)
Try to avoid taking on too much. Be it sessions, learning curve,marketing,accounting,social media,website and blog etc etc...the list seems endless at times. As a new business owner you need to keep things simple. This goes back to being organized. During your sessions, aim for 3-4 different set ups. Anything more at times will only be overwhelming for your clients and extra work for you. New parents are stressed,exhausted and still on an emotional high that baby is "actually here" It's your job to make this experience smooth, positive and most importantly stress-free!
Tiny Newborn Blessing
It was with utmost joy that I was able to photograph this beautiful tiny newborn blessing recently. I am very proud to introduce my newest niece to the world! Evelyn Alexandra joined a new wonderful family that couldn't love her more if they tried. She has perfect doting parents and big brother and sister are ever so excited she is here. You may recall mom's maternity session. I love all these exciting times we documented for mom and dad. the Danielle, Andrei...what a wonderful gift. Enjoy these fleeting moments as she is only little for a short while. All the details we captured that day are lifelong memories that I know you already cherish!
A new Father and Daughter= love
Lastly a quick thank you to Shirls over at " Love That Prop" Her gorgeous angel wraps were perfect and dainty for this little newborn! Go check her out and send her my regards!
Newborn Baby Boy in Durham Region
It was like deja vu as I welcomed sweet baby Owen into the studio last week. A new baby boy in Durham Region. Meet baby Owen! Some strong genes in this family, as he reminded me so much of his big sister Olivia. Just gorgeous children! Olivia was a superstar and such a great little model for mom and Auntie who came in. Meet the latest Sweet Baby Plan member! Thank you both for allowing me to capture some beautiful memories of Owen at 8 days old. Enjoy and I'll be in touch soon.
Favorite Things Family Session: Durham Region Portrait Photographer
Brown paper packaging ties up with string, here are a few of their favorite things. A family session with favorite things is ALWAYS the best! I just love how detailed this session was. These little princesses kept us all entertained while little baby Rowen was having a refuel. Great session, absolutely WONDERFUL clients and the best smiles. Thanks S Family. Enjoy the sneak peaks and look forward to seeing you again real soon!
Yes these little beauties are THAT gorgeous!
Sweet Baby Plan Member: Charlie 8 months
Still as handsome and sweet as ever. Look how much Charlie has grown from his newborn session. That contageous smile and those gorgeous baby blues. Charlie is a Sweet Baby Plan Member and I LOVE our sessions together. He was super curious and was so active. Sure made for a fun and busy session. Till next time Charlie! Happy Growing!
