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

AMBER, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So, folks often look at a successful business and think it became a success overnight – but that often obscures all the nitty, gritty details of everything that went into the growth phase of your business. We’d love to hear about your scaling story and how you scaled up?

Wow! It has been a journey. I remember when I first started photography 9 years ago. I started with a $300 camera that I won a gift card for. I was so excited. When I purchased it, I had no idea what I was doing, but I eventually learned. I practiced, took free courses, mentored, met up with like-minded creatives, and invested in better lenses. I took a lot of photos through the years, and even I can see the growth in all of my work. It was an amazing journey. I am still learning every day. I opened my first photography studio in 2021 with a business partner. Prior to that, I used my home and my garage for sessions. Eventually, I occupied the studio by myself. Now today, I offer a creative lifestyle studio in the heart of downtown Columbia. I rent it out to local photographers and creatives. My clientele has grown soooo much! I have met clients that have turned into friends and taken people’s pictures I would have never dreamed of. I have taken over 2000 family’s pictures and knowing I created those memories for them still leaves me speechless. Every session has been a learning experience. I have established a professional website, invested in different business tools, and all around built my business into something that my family can be proud of.

If I had to offer business advice to up and coming business owners, I would first say, 1. Running into obstacles is part of the process, but it really does work out in the end. 2. Invest in yourself. headshots, business cards, websites, contracts, a solid business plan, organizational tools, and even a designated office. They are all so important for success. 3. Marketing is crucial. Every word of mouth referral, every google review, every ad you place , IT ALL MATTERS! 4. Customer service matters, there are going to be so many businesses that sell and offer the same service as you, but your customer service and personality will be what sets you apart. 5. Realize that doors closed are also good things. You can’t be everything for everyone and new doors don’t open until old ones are closed. Don’t get down about the “No’s” you may hear in the process.

I say all that to say, “Just Start!” Watching my business grow has been such a blessing and the overwhelming support and love I have received from the community makes it worth it every day.

AMBER, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

In 2016, I embarked on a new journey at Verizon Wireless. I excelled at the job and ended up winning a gift card. With that gift card, I purchased my first camera. It was a basic Nikon model. I had no clue what I was doing, but I was determined to learn and embrace a new hobby. My son was little then, and I wanted to document his growth. I took classes, read books, and watched many YouTube videos! A coworker suggested I apply for our audio-visual team. I ended up accepting the position and learned so much over the years. I had mentors and mentored people as my knowledge progressed.

In April 2023, I could resign from my corporate job and pursue photography full-time. Now, almost 9 years later, I never would have imagined the success that photography would bring me. I have hosted styled shoots, mentored other novice photographers, and made countless strides in the community. I have grown my business by opening a lifestyle creative studio space.

A very important part of my business that sets me apart is being available to all communities including the LGBTQ+ community. It is so important to not only represent for that community, but serve that community as many vendors and businesses will not. I am most proud of my growth and the amount of people I have met over the years. I do an amazing job of capturing the genuine love and laughter between people and I have been told countless times, ” my photography moves people.” It still amazes me when I am out in public and someone recognizes me from a business perspective. I’m not at celebrity status, LOL but it makes me smile!

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

I honestly think it’s all about being personable and human with my clients. I am there from start to finish in any type of session, wedding, or event. As my clientele continues to grow, all of my previous clients return and that makes me extremely proud. I think my brand speaks for itself. I am never late, I am fun but professional, I remember everyone’s names ALWAYS, I play with the kids, wipe tears and change diapers if I have to. I essentially insert myself into that family for the moment in time and it all feels so natural. I think people gravitate towards my kindness and I know they come back because I make them feel comfortable and I treat them like I would treat my own family. My process for booking is also easy and my communication is top tier.

I have created a strong reputation that I value. I have a 5 star rating on Google and Facebook. I strive to create the best client experience for each and every one of my customers.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

I always tell my wife I create timeless memories. The photos that I capture hang on people’s walls. I went to a clients house once and the photos that I took were printed all over. Above the fireplace, in the dining room, and the family was so proud. I thought to myself, “Wow, 30 years from now, there children will look at this and say that’s my mommy and grandparents.” Knowing that I freeze time for people makes my heart skip a beat. Its so surreal.

Contact Info:

• Website: mdcphotogroup.com
• Instagram: @mdcphotogroup , @studiomc.co
• Facebook: Modern-Color Photography & Amber Jenkins Moskowitz

Image Credits
Tricia Simon Heather Saputo Amber Moskowitz