We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Irma Ali. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Irma below.
Irma, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s something you believe that most people in your industry (or in general) disagree with?
I travel a ton for work. People in my industry, as photographers and clients, don’t seem to think that this is easy. I book shoots in my state but am willing to travel anywhere for hire. Potential clients based outside of Atlanta or Denver (I’m currently co-based) I feel don’t realize they can hire me just as easily as they hire someone local. My schedule is flexible and I love to make anything work. Travel inspires me.
Irma, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m a traveling wedding and portrait photographer. I created my business in 2018 after years of doing shoots on the side. I was either working multiple jobs at a time or in college. I decided to take the leap after finishing my photography program and quitting jobs to pursue photography full time. I think what sets me apart is my passion and my strive for the happiness of others. In this stage of my life, photography has been my full focus so I’m able to put a lot of time into my clients. I care about my work both my edited photos and my time with clients. Time with clients is important because I try to ensure that online communication and in person makes them more than comfortable. I hope that my work draws the attention of anyone who wants fun photos and are happy to go somewhere new, interesting, or comforting. Laughter, high-fives, and adventure are my big 3. I’m proud to be able to pick up my gear and be on-the-go any time.
Any fun sales or marketing stories?
One of my favorite stories from a shoot was when my friend was surprise proposing. They were in San Fran and had me fly out for it. However, I was in Denver and there was a massive storm at the time. My original flight got canceled and so did the many others I tried to re-book. Finally, I was able to book one through a different airline. It was so eerie on flight because there was barely anyone on this plane. There was so much turbulence but I ended up making it there alive (obviously, but I was SHAKEN up). I didn’t think I was going to make there. The whole time my friend is worried sick and can’t tell their fiance while on their trip. We are texting back-and-forth with updated details and we are both trying to stay calm. Finally I get to the beach where it’s going to happen. THEN, the fiance (who has not met me) points at me and makes a comment on my outfit. I’m sitting on the beach waiting for them to pass. They said I looked sad sitting there alone with my hood up and dark sunglasses on. I was really just hanging out with my hood up so my hair didn’t fly everywhere. My friend just tries to play it off as they keep walking. It almost ruined the whole thing! They climb up some rocks and they get down on one knee. I get the shot! They come down, I take my hood off, and can’t stop laughing. I took a huge risk but I know my friend needed me there. It was one for the books and I would do it all again.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
I think the most effective strategy for this would be word of mouth. I get a lot of repeat clients who are so happy with their photos and hiring me that they recommend me. I’m so lucky to have awesome people that mesh well with my personality that they want to tell others. I love getting to know my clients and growing with them. From portraits to couples, to engagements to weddings, to maternity to family. Maybe my love for the Office quotes or Harry Potter helps too. ;)
Contact Info:
- Website: irmatakesphotos.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/irmalovesyou
- Facebook: facebook.com/irmatakesphotos
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdxuWtlHHdSC5ATWeS86Cxw
Image Credits
Irma Ali