We were lucky to catch up with Kira Wood recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kira , appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
I keep my creativity alive by collaborating with fellow photographers and models in the area. We come up with creative concepts and put those into action by doing a photoshoot and trying new techniques. We usually learn a lot during those shoots and have a lot of fun. Both of us take turns either shooting each other or coming up with ideas we would like to try. Those images are used to enhance our portfolios and offer new options for clients. Sometimes they are purely for fun!
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am a boudoir photographer located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. My job is by far one of the most fun and rewarding jobs because I get to empower women every day. Every single woman that walks into my studio has their own unique story to tell and I love being a part of that. The time we spend together is so vulnerable and up lifting. My brand is elegant, classic and inclusive to all women. I want women to know my studio to be a safe space where they can be unapologetically exactly who they are!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three skills that impacted me the most in my career are posing (learning to pose clients well), pricing for profit and authenticity. My advice is to attend live workshops for your niche and practice as much as possible to really nail your craft. Work with a business mentor that you trust and has the business model that you want to follow. Be willing to take constructive criticism. Put yourself out there and don’t be afraid to show people who you truly are. You will attract your ideal client but presenting yourself well and being authentic. People love anyone they can connect with on a deeper level.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overhwhelmed, I try to time block as much as possible. I work in small time blocks and take breaks whenever possible to clear my mind. Reaching out to fellow small business owners and having a vent session or an brainstorm session is also really helpful. Recently, I’ve been meditating too or going for long walks while listening to a podcast I enjoy. Anything that can break that negative cycle we get in, can help you calm down.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jolieboudoir.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/jolieboudoirnc
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/kira-wood-73952662
Image Credits
My headshot by Linda Carnell @brandandbloomphoto
