Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Deven Donohue. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Deven, appreciate you joining us today. Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?

If I’m being honest, haven’t we all had a “what if” question in our mind? What if I didn’t do this? I know I have. The last time I remember having this thought was a couple of years ago during every photographers busy season. (Fall-Winter) I was feeling exhausted, drained and a little burnt out. If you have busy seasons I know you can relate to this feeling. Especially if you’re like me and you are a one woman show. Phew! BUT to answer the question, YES! Am I happier as a business owner? Absolutely, yes. I get to do something I’ve always dreamed of doing, stay home with my kids, make my own schedule etc. Is it hard? Am I’m exhausted? Yes and yes! But it’s by far the most rewarding job ever. I get to capture memories that can be shared for generations. It’s literally a dream come true job! I even feel weird calling it a job because I love it so much.

Deven, 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?

A Texas girl born and bred, I’ve always been obsessed with taking pictures. Even as a little kid, I knew my destiny was to be a mom and photographer. Now I’m living out my dream as both.

From fashion model to family photographer. While my career began in modeling, I was determined to learn all I could to be on the other side of the camera. Today it’s a joy to be the one snapping pictures.

Let me start from the beginning. Yes, it’s true. From as long as I can remember growing up, I would write on all my getting to know you forms in school under “what do you want to be when you grow up?” I would put A mommy and photographer. So when I say I’m literally living out a dream, I’m not lying.

Fast forward, I had an awesome opportunity to work with Houstons leading model agency Page Parkes, for a few years before getting married and moving away. It was an incredible/fun opportunity. As it really gives me a one up because I’ve been on both sides of the camera. I know the right angles, how to make mom feel good etc.

My husband and I got married in 2013. The military had us away for a few years. While I was away, I earned my certificate and Portrait Photography through the Art Institute. I learned so much in school and it really gave me a good grasp on the technical and business side of things. But I was lacking experience.

We eventually made our way back in 2016. With in this year, I had another opportunity to intern with a fabulous Houston photographer, and later that year eventually start my business. (Never stop learning)

So here we are 6 years later. What a wild ride it’s been. So grateful for the timing of everything. So grateful for the Constant growth. And SO very grateful for my amazing support from my family and clients.

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

Goodness, I love this question. I am HUGE about my client relationships. It’s a very important part to me. I personally feel like it has been a huge reason why I’ve been able to get to where I am today. It’s a pretty simple thing to implement into any Business. I genuinely care for and want to know more about my clients life. It’s been a really cool part of my job. Plus, doesn’t everyone feel more comfortable if a new stranger is friendly and cares to get to know you? Aka, a more relaxed client and comfortable session with me. More genuine/natural smiles.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

WORD OF MOUTH! Word of mouth has carried my Business to where it is today. I think this piggybacks perfectly off of the previous question. I firmly believe building my clients relationship has brought me more clients. Because they tell their friends, who tells their family, who tells their friends etc. Beyond grateful.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.devendonohue.com
• Instagram: Www.Instagram.com/devendonohue
• Facebook: Www.Facebook.com/devendphotography

Image Credits
All taken by me