We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kristy Hampton a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Kristy, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s jump right into how you came up with the idea?

I’ve always loved photography and frequently admired the work of others in the industry. Several thoughts surfaced when thinking about the opportunity to open my own business, thoughts stemming from my competitive side and thoughts from my logical – realistic side. Thoughts such as; is the market too saturated, will other photographers accept me, can I produce the work that I envision, do I have enough time to run a business, how will I learn the skills I need to be successful?

In April of 2020, I was laid off due to Covid-19 and instead of focusing on the pandemic, I channeled my energy and embraced my creative side. I remember thinking, had I opened my business when it was initially a thought, I would instantly have something to fall back on.

So, I committed to just “going for it” and I initiated a google search of steps for opening a business. I envisioned the equipment I wanted, the website I wanted, the clientele I wanted, the best bank for small businesses, and leapt into action. I felt all types of emotions as I thought of a business name, submitted an LLC incorporation application, researched how to create a website and reserve a domain, among many other things. Once I was able to check off each of those boxes (which I did very quickly), I created a post on Canva to announce my new endeavor, shook off my anxiety from anticipation and pressed ‘post’. The rest is history!

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

By day, I’m a Compliance professional working in State Government and currently pursuing a Doctoral Degree in Health Administration at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). My professional career has included quality and compliance roles within the behavioral health, biotechnology, and human service industries. I’m definitely a self-proclaimed compliance nerd. By night, I’m a creative, spending my time capturing the most important moments in my clients’ lives, editing, and constantly researching to perfect my skillset.

I started my photography career by applying for an internship with a dope photographer (Elizabeth Ashley & Co), invested in a photography course at the local community college, and took a course on editing. I consider myself blessed, because I’ve had a supportive clientele from the beginning. When I first started, I offered super discounted services to those who reached out and increased my prices slowly until I became more comfortable.

My passion is shooting weddings, milestones (birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, engagements), as well as business branding. These types of photoshoots enhance my love for photography as ‘my why’ includes making people feel beautiful. Aside from the creative outlet, it excites me to give people a moment of motivation, joy, confidence and an overall great feeling even if it’s just for a couple of hours out of their day. It means a lot to be chosen to be part of their captured memories, milestones, and celebrations. Every day, no matter what I’m doing, I aim to positively impact at least one person’s day.

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

Referrals, referrals, referrals! Seems simple enough but this is really the secret to always being booked. I pride myself in providing exceptional service to each and every client during my time with them. I offer an initial consultation call for photoshoot planning and several follow-ups to ensure we are aligned about all details. During the initial consultation, we discuss the clients vision (or develop one), location, needs, props, clothes, ideas, etc. This allows me to be prepared for their big day and takes some of the pressure off of the client.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I consider my daily life a pivot due to the number of obligations I have. I’m constantly working on balancing self-care with photography, school, my career, and my loved ones. I’ve had to make decisions each month of reviewing my schedule, identifying the number of photoshoots I can give 110% to and committing to showing up as the best version of myself possible. If I had to give one piece of advice to others, I would say, communication is key. When clients reach out to me, I’m honest about what I am able to do. I’ve found that they appreciate and respect this approach and majority of them book further out or wait until I am able to accommodate them. I am grateful for the loyalty and support my clients have shown.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.hamptonstills.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hamptonstillsphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HamptonStillsPhotography
• Other: Email: [email protected]