We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Michelle Robertson . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Michelle below.

Michelle, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

There is so much to learn in the photography industry from; the camera itself and the mechanics, photography terms, editing, software, pay structure, and more. When I started taking photos I had very little knowledge of photography and all the aspects of shooting and editing. During my first shoot with a friend to test out my camera, I knew there were some things I was going to have to learn to stand out and find my own creative style.

I started searching online for the basic knowledge and things to know in order to shoot a successful shot. After doing research and reading tons of informational articles, YouTube videos, camera classes, and tutorials, I took my knowledge and began to practice. I also reached out to other photographers for advice and mentorship. It honestly took a lot of time and effort to learn the camera and photography in general because so much had changed from my high school days of yearbook staff experience.

Looking back at the learning process, I would have definitely changed how I went about things to speed up the learning process. Photography is definitely something you have to practice time and time again when new ways or new cameras are released. In an ever evolving industry, I definitely would have reached out to an established photographer first to shadow them and get some knowledge on the mechanics of the cameras. I feel that there was so much I could’ve done had I did this before, but it was definitely a learning experience.

The most important skills in my opinion are the different settings and knowing what they mean as well as what they do. Not knowing stuff like this can easily make photography difficult or discouraging. Knowing your camera and settings is ultimately going to make it a smooth shoot and allow you to quickly adjust to the look you are going for.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

I originally used to do photography for the yearbook staff in high school because I grew up around cameras. My dad used to always take photos and record every family event because he felt that they were memories we would be able to cherish and look back on.

I lost my father to cancer in 2007, and I definitely understood in that moment what he meant. I found comfort in being able to look at photos and talk with my family about that exact moment the picture was taken as well as watch videos to hear his voice or remember the love that was there.
Fast forward, in 2019, I bought a camera to begin taking photos. My friend at the time suggested it would be good to practice some shots since he was into running. After we did the shoot, he loved how the pictures came out and suggested I start a business doing photography.

Right now, I’m only doing photography but plan on adding videography in the future. I specialize in portraiture whether it’s family, graduation, content, business, maternity, and product shoots. If you’re celebrating or trying to capture a moment, I can do it. If you need content for your business, I can do that as well.

My main focus is ensuring I my clients are happy. I want to make sure that I am bringing their views and ideas to life. I always discuss with the clients beforehand to find out what they want and what feelings they want to have looking back on the photos. Photography is my passion, so I definitely take pride in making sure my clients are comfortable and happy with the process as well as the end result.

I am proud of how much I have accomplished. I run my business myself, so learning, running it, and making time for it is tons of dedication and hard work. I’ve had numerous features in online platforms, collaborated on projects for some major brands as well as small businesses. I am self taught, and I am proud of the progression of my work as well as my business.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Honestly, my reputation has definitely been built on word of mouth and social media in regards to the market. I’m a runner, so I meet tons of people. When one person hires me and loved my work they tell other people and spread the word. I have several photography friends as well so we do a great job of sending clients to each other when we are not able to do a shoot.

Networking has played a major role in the growth of my business as well as marketing my business.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

So during Quarantine, no one was really hiring to do photo shoots. The specials I ran for graduation season had came to a halt. Even after quarantine, people were still skeptical about being close to others. In addition, so many people picked up photography so do their own shoots. I honestly felt like that was it. I told myself that the market was over saturated, business slowed down so much, and there was nothing to look forward to. I felt like quitting and just saying that it was fun while it lasted.

I spoke to another friend of mine that is a photographer and he reassured me that my style and my talent was needed, and this wasn’t going to last forever, but during the slow time I could practice more and learn more on new innovative ways to shoot. This was the push I needed to keep going.

I had to realize that it won’t always be easy and steady. I had to realize that there is only one me, and you know what the market needs a me. Even if everyone is doing it, always remember, no one can do it like you. No one has your creative eye and that’s what sets you apart.

Fast forward, Shots by Mimi is still in business and Dijon amazing! I look forward to more growth and success for my business.

Contact Info:

• Website: Shotsbymimi.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shotsbymimi_htx/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shotsbymimi