We were lucky to catch up with Michael Wilson recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Michael, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
As a parent, I began my journey in photography with a simple yet profound motivation: to capture and preserve the precious moments of my two young sons lives.
It all began with the decision to purchase a camera—a decision driven by the desire to document every milestone, every laugh, and every adventure.
What started as a personal endeavor soon blossomed into a passion and a craft.
I was then introduced to well crafted professional headshots that had a purpose and intent to help business professionals get where they are going faster.
I knew I wanted to create these same stunning headshots helping professionals on all kinds stand out.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Photography started as a personal passion. I first picked up a camera to document my young sons’ lives, capturing the everyday moments that make childhood so special. But what began as a way to preserve memories soon turned into something much bigger.
I discovered that photography wasn’t just about taking pictures; it was about capturing confidence, presence, and authenticity. That realization led me to focus on professional headshots and personal branding photography, helping people see themselves the way the world should see them.
Today, I run mjwphoto, specializing in high-quality, modern headshots that help professionals and entrepreneurs elevate their brand, stand out in their industry, and create better opportunities for themselves.
I work with corporate professionals, executives, business owners, and creatives who understand the power of a strong personal brand. Whether it’s for LinkedIn, speaking engagements, corporate websites, or personal branding, my goal is to create images that inspire confidence and credibility.
What excites me most is seeing the transformation that happens during a session. So many people walk in nervous, saying, “I’m not photogenic” or “I hate taking pictures”. But by the time they see their final images, their entire perspective shifts. They recognize their own confidence, and that’s the moment I know I’m doing what I was meant to do.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
1. Relationship Building
Photography, especially headshot photography, is about more than just lighting and composition. It’s about making people feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. That connection is what allows me to capture authentic expressions and create images that resonate.
Advice: If you’re early in your journey, focus on building relationships, not just taking photos. Learn how to put people at ease, read body language, and guide them naturally. The more you understand people, the better your images will be.
2. Sales & Marketing Knowledge
I quickly learned that great photos don’t book clients, great marketing does. Running a photography business is 10% photography and 90% sales, branding, and marketing. Learning how to position my work, communicate its value, and reach the right audience was a game-changer.
Advice: If you’re just starting out, study marketing as much as you study photography. Learn how to attract and convert clients through social media, email marketing, and personal branding. Your ability to sell your services will determine your success.
3. Adaptability & Continuous Learning
The photography industry and business in general is always evolving. From new technology and trends to shifts in how people consume content, staying adaptable and willing to learn has been crucial in keeping my business relevant and growing.
Advice: Never stop learning. Whether it’s mastering new photography techniques, refining your business strategy, or staying up to date with industry trends, invest in your education. Take courses, follow industry leaders, and always be a student of your craft.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
One of the most impactful books I’ve read is Courage Is Calling by Ryan Holiday. It’s a powerful reminder that fear is inevitable, but courage is a choice.
Here are three key lessons that shaped my journey:
– Fear is the Enemy of Progress – Fear never disappears, but we succeed by acting despite it. Every major step in my business required pushing past self-doubt.
– You Must Stand Out to Succeed – Playing it safe leads to invisibility. Confidence and differentiation are essential to growth in any industry.
– Courage Isn’t Just for You – Your actions inspire others. Whether coaching a nervous client or mentoring another photographer, I’ve learned that being brave helps others be brave too.
This book reinforced that success comes from choosing courage over comfort, again and again.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mjwphotoclt.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mjwphotoclt
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mjwphotoclt/
Image Credits
All images taken by me.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
