Today we’d like to introduce you to Charissa H. Yong.
Hi Charissa H., can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My name is Charissa (pronounced “Karissa”).
I started this business in 2018 because I was burned out from my corporate job as a software test engineer. I loved the job and the people I worked with but the 3-hour daily commute as a new mom took a toll on my mental health and wellbeing.
I was trying so hard to make it work and keep the job. I even negotiated with my boss to come to work at 4:30 AM so I could leave early to pick up my daughter from daycare. But after a few months, I was exhausted, agitated, and unhappy. I knew I had to quit.
I was trying to decide whether to find another job closer to home or do something completely different. I wanted to do something creative and fulfilling that allowed me the flexibility to be there for my family.
Then, I remembered that photography has always been an important part of my life. When I was little, my mother would take hundreds of photographs and get them printed. I would spend hours looking through all of these photographs over and over again. It brings me a lot of joy and I knew, even at a young age, how important these photographs mean to me.
After discussing with my husband about starting a photography business, we figured that we would be ok financially for at least 6 months, I jumped right in and made it official with my LLC.
Initially, I was focusing on being a family photographer. But a year later I was searching for a way to market my business, I wanted to show up authentically and not try to be someone else in my field, but I didn’t know what type of photos I needed and what stories to share.
After some research, I stumbled into the personal branding world and branding photography. I took an online personal branding photography course and listened to podcasts to learn everything I could about personal branding and branding photography. I fell in love with this niche! What a powerful tool to build your know, like, and trust factor, not just for businesses, everyone has a personal brand.
I have been building my personal brand for over 6 years and have seen my business grow. Now, I’m so happy to wake up every morning and help my clients be seen and grow!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I had a lot of self-doubt and negative thoughts when I started the photography business. “Who am I to start a business?”, “You don’t have a photography or a business degree.”, “You don’t even know how to use Photoshop!”
Every day I had no idea what I was doing and felt like I was an imposter.
Luckily, my best friend introduced me to her friend, Jane, who was a professional wedding photographer. Jane was so kind and took the time to answer my questions, gave me feedback on my editing, and taught me how to use a flash. She encouraged me to practice photographing and editing and I will improve.
I also invested in a few online courses to learn more about photography, editing, personal branding, and marketing. Eventually, I felt more comfortable and confident in my work.
The other struggle was feeling very lonely after a year in business doing everything on my own. I didn’t have anyone to talk to about business challenges or ideas.
As an introvert, I had to push myself to attend different networking events. It was hard and awkward but I learned so much about networking (do’s and don’ts), how to introduce myself, collaborations, and more.
Since then, I understood that finding the right business community and networking groups can make a huge difference in growing your business and getting the support you need.
Being a photographer or starting a business is not easy, but when I think back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come.
We’ve been impressed with Charissa H. Yong Photography, LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’m a Personal Branding and Portrait Photographer and owner of Charissa H. Yong Photography, LLC located in Westwood, New Jersey. I create authentic brand photos for service-based business owners and help them show up consistently so they can attract their ideal clients.
I believe my personal brand and my relationship with people are what sets me apart from others. Photography is such a personal thing and it can feel vulnerable. That’s why I highly recommend scheduling a discovery call or a consultation to talk to the photographer before booking a photo session. I believe that when you feel comfortable and have a connection with a photographer, you will look relaxed and authentic in your photos.
The services I offer are personal branding photography sessions, headshots, and small events such as baby showers, religious ceremonies, and corporate events.
I’m also proud to collaborate with other creatives such as videographers, marketing agencies, makeup and hair vendors, and personal stylists to make it a stress-free photo experience for my clients.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Relationships. Relationships to me are the foundation of a meaningful and happy life.
I cherish the relationships I have. I also had to end some bad relationships. I believe that we have the power to say “yes” and “no” to the relationships we want in our lives so we can be a better version of ourselves.
No matter how busy I am, I make time to be there for my family, attending my kids’ activities, and I schedule 1-3 meetups with my friends each month to do a walk, go to a spa, or have lunch and catch up.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://charissahyongphotography.com
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/charissahyongphotography
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charissahyong
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGbAT4l3wSpdcAbkcG3OYLw
Image Credits
Clara Wang Photography and Charissa H. Yong Photography, LLC