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

Neyssa, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your business and how did you resolve those issues?

When I first started my business, I naively thought that “if I build it, they will come.” That by merely saying, “hey I’m a photographer” clients would come flooding in. Yet that wasn’t the case. Instead, I had to put in the work, building a marketing plan, share about my business like crazy. I felt a bit like I was pimping myself out, which felt unnatural. Yet, it was the only way people would learn about what I offer.

As clients started coming in, I learned I had another problem. I did not have any systems in place to help me handle a growing business. I had to figure out systems for client communication, editing, marketing, etc, all so that my client could feel a smooth and streamlined experience.

Neyssa, 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 am a Seattle-based family and newborn photographer, owner of Neyssa Lee Photography for the past 15 years. I’m also a mother of 6, married to my high school sweetheart. My goal is to provide families with a laid back, low stress experience, so they walk away saying “that was fun.” I know how, as a mother, we want gorgeous photos of our family, that photography can feel like an investment, and that it can be stressful trying to get everything ready. I also know what it’s like to worry your kid will be crazy during photos. My job is to use that understanding and my experience to help families feel at ease, from the moment they inquire all the way through gallery and product delivery, I’m there to guide them.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

When I began my business, I thought I would be a wedding photographer. After working with a few wedding photographers to learn the ropes, I quickly learned that weddings were not for me. It took a few years of photographing anything and everything that came my way. I photographed, birthday parties, newborns, maternity, family, high school seniors, landscapes. I tried it all. Yet I learned what really drove me creatively, where I was best able to serve my clients. From there I narrowed down my offerings to families, maternity, and newborn portrait sessions.

As my clients (and my family) are getting older, I can see my business pivoting slightly again to include high school seniors.

The biggest takeaway, as you build your business, know that it is okay to try different things before settling down. Or if you find yourself unhappy with what you’re doing, change it up. Your people will find you when you are truly passionate about what you do.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

My website is big for driving new clients. I have worked hard to build a site that is both SEO and user friendly. I have also spent years and years blogging in a way that will help attract new clients and serves current clients. It is my blog that helps me streamline my processes, answer client questions well and on brand, all while helping attract new clients.

Of course, with a business like photography, I also attract new clients through word of mouth. When someone has a great experience with me, they will tell their friends. And they do.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://neyssalee.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neyssa_lee_photography/

Image Credits

Neyssa Lee Photography