Chantel Miller shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Chantel, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think what is most misunderstood is the amount of time put into running a Photography business. I feel most people assume the Photographer takes the photos, edits them and the job is done; however there is so much more to it. On average I work 8 to 10 hours a day. I start my day by answering emails, working on proofing galleries, editing galleries, photographing a session(s) that day, cleaning up after that session and setting up for the next, etc. There is a considerable amount of time and planning that goes into preparing for each session as well: gathering necessary props, backdrops, styling, etc. There is also constant effort put in to marketing; while that be working on my website, posting on socials, etc in effort to get in front of an even larger audience.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Chantel Miller Photography was established in 2018. I specialize in working with newborns, babies, children, maternity and family photography. I pride myself in providing a stress free session and many of my sessions are all inclusive with wardrobe, props and accessories that allows my Client’s one less thing to worry about – I handle all of the planning and preparation to ensure their session is seamless and that my Client’s have an amazing experience.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
When I was 10 years old, my Mother became gravely ill. My Mother had suffered a life threatening stroke and had been hospitalized for a prolonged period of time. During this time, my Father had to not only balance his work life and his home life (providing for 3 young children) but he also had to prioritize being with my Mother any chance he could get. My Father ended up working 3 jobs to support our family. He prevailed through so many dark and long days and always worked so hard and kept moving forward giving his all to our family. My Father is without a doubt the reason I learned at such a young age how important it is to work hard.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes. Many Photographers suffer from “imposter syndrome”; meaning You don’t think you are good enough and that you are inadequate. There was a time when my business became slow and bookings were down significantly and I just thought it was because I wasn’t valued and I almost decided to end my photography career. I was very depressed and torn on what to do, so I reached out to fellow Photographers and talking with them I realized they were all facing similar feelings and scenarios as me. I decided that instead of feeling sorry for myself I would find different ways to market myself and get my work and name out there. It didn’t take long for the bookings to start again and I had ‘dug myself out of a hole’.
Had I not taken the risk to try something new, I may have ended my career. I am so glad I took that risk.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That anyone can become a working Photographer and that it is “easy money”. In the last 5 years there has been an influx of Photographers. The thought process being: Buy a nice camera, click a button, edit with a filter and viola, the job is done.
The truth is, just within the technical aspect it takes years of practice and learning skills such as: lighting, composition, camera (settings), posing and your editing style. On the backend, running a successful Photography business takes time, persistence and substantial investment. Competition is everywhere and you must find a way to be desired and stand out and continuously produce an amazing experience and amazing photography. Consistency and Reliability is the only way I feel a Photography business will succeed.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I know without a doubt I am doing what I was born to do. It is funny, because if you would have told me as a child or even 10 years ago that I would be a Professional Photographer there is no way I would believe it!
I have always had a love of children, especially babies; so when I became a Mother with two children of my own my heart was absolutely bursting with joy. I was so enamored with how tiny and beautiful they were that I found myself taking photos of them nearly every day. My Husband noticed my infatuation and it didn’t take long before he gifted me a nice camera. During my children’s early years I would create little sets and get fancy outfits for them and take pictures of them just for me to have and cherish. I had posted some of their photos on social media and I received positive and encouraging praise from many people and had even had friends and acquaintances reach out to me to photograph their children. I had a light bulb moment that maybe perhaps I really do have a gift and decided to end my 15 year career as a Veterinary Technician and pursue becoming a Professional Photographer. I took an entire year to really work on my skills and participating in workshops and training courses. I also had to learn how to set up a business – from the licensing/legal aspects to the financial end of it. It took several years to begin building Clientele, creating my brand and getting my name and work seen. Running a business takes dedication, hard work and nearly all of your time. You have to be 100% committed.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chantelmillerphotography/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chantelmillerphotography
- Other: https://www.chantelmillerphotography.com
Image Credits
All photos by Chantel Miller Photography
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