We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Misty. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Misty below.
Hi Misty, 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?
I found my true purpose through my faith in Jesus. Although photography and digital retouching brings me joy and fulfillment, it is not my identity and I know that the talent and growth come from my Creator. I give all glory to God for everything.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I started out 5 years ago this month. A hobby turned dream turned passion. I had just recovered from a severe case of Covid pneumonia where I was hospitalized for weeks. I knew I never wanted to be in a 9-5. I wanted to be with my children, homeschool, homestead and be a present wife. So, I struck out with hope and dove head first into buying an upgraded camera, a mirrorless Sony A7Riii. I fell head over heels in love! For the first 3.5 years I did photography on the side. As my husband worked full time. Now I’ve opened a cozy studio on our property in a rural community. I’ve grown my skill, and with it, a client base. I am a self proclaimed whiz at marketing. I dabble in content creation and I strive for excellence in all that I do! Last year my husband came home from his job and I’m full time in photography. God has provided every need and continues to bless our many ventures on the tails of our photography business.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Learning how to shoot manual effectively, learning lighting and mastering editing. All three are major in this line of work. My best advice is to learn all you can and never get comfortable with what you know unless you know it all.
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
This! Such a great question. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in the last 5 years is that not every client is right for you and that it’s okay to be selective with clients even when starting out. Most that are starting out are insecure and rightly so, there is so much growing to do.. but that doesnt mean you have to take clients that are disrespectful and unappreciative. Some clients are going to grow with you and some will not. Some will stay with cheaper photographers, some will be unhappy and bash you, but some will appreciate where you and can envision where you’re going, and they will ride for you even through a challenging season. Find the clients that appreciate your hard work and reward them well. Not everyone deserves your energy and not everyone will appreciate you. Learn to be selective and that it’s okay to say I don’t think we are a good fit.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Misty Donahoe
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