We recently connected with Leah Carter and have shared our conversation below.
Leah, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Alright, so we’d love to hear about how you got your first client or customer. What’s the story?
Although it wasn’t my first paid client – this is a story about my first surprise proposal client that was pivotal in my photography career to booking more. I didn’t have much of a client base or social media presence at this point my career so I was often looking for opportunities on Facebook, Craigslist, in-person, etc. I was browsing Craigslist, a pretty unconventional prospecting method, and found a post looking for a photographer for a surprise proposal for out-of-state tourists at a location I was very familiar with. After a few emails, phone calls, and lots of planning I had my first surprise proposal client. The proposal went well and I’ve now photographed 13 surprise proposals! This was very important to book my first surprise proposal in order to gain experience and get my name out there for this niche clientele!
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 am Leah Carter of Leah’s Lens Photography! I am a creative portrait and wedding photographer located in southern Maine. I love working with a range of clients to continuously challenge myself and work with a variety of individuals. My work includes weddings, elopements, branding, couples, families, creative portraits, and headshots. In addition to photography, I host content days for photographers and videographers to attend and build their portfolio and offer mentorship sessions. I love focusing on the creative aspect of photography, including shooting at various locations, using non-traditional props, and finding unique angles and perspectives to tell a story or evoke an emotion.
I am most proud of creating a business that is full-time for myself after being laid off from my corporate job due to COVID. I had never dreamed of being a photographer, until I was more forced into this role. I loved my corporate role and did not expect to be laid off at the time. I always loved taking photos, but wasn’t sure how to make it a full-time job. With a background in marketing, an ability to network in a community, and work with various individuals I was able to make this dream a reality.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Building a quality social media audience takes time but there’s few things that have helped me to grow quickly. I’ve found that engaging with others is extremely helpful, seeing that that is the core of social media. Interacting with other accounts in/around your industry, commenting and sharing others posts that are relevant to your business, and tagging and following other individuals and businesses that may be connected to yours are all great ways to engage with others on social media. Additionally, it’s important to be authentic to your brand. Although it may be easy to follow trends, potential clients are looking to connect with your brand,
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
Social media has been the best source of new clients for me! Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook have my primary drivers of revenue. A part of social media that has allowed me to excel in getting new clients is the ability to spread digital word of mouth. This has primarily been through clients sharing my photos to their followers and ultimately, helping to expand my own network.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.leahslens.photography/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahs_lens_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leahsphotolens
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/leahs_lens_/
Image Credits
Leah Carter of Leah’s Lens Photography