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

Andrea, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

Ever since I could hold a camera, I have been taking pictures. I find beauty in everything. I’m forever amazed that I can capture a moment in time and preserve it forever. I’ve always had a love for creatively documenting life. I honestly never dreamed that I could turn this passion into such a successful career. I am wrapping up my first year taking my photography business full-time, and I couldn’t be prouder.

I never intended to do photography outside of a hobby. I had always done photoshoots for fun with friends. After I graduated college, it got to the point where so many people were asking me to take their photos that I figured I’d better start charging something. I like to think the business created itself in a way. I spent years taking photos for people on the side of my regular job and gradually growing as time went on. It became a part-time job that I loved more than anything. I registered as an official business and continued to take steps to learn how to run it properly.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, I turned to my photography as an outlet. I dove into really learning the craft, growing my skills and knowledge, expanding my network, and finding a photography community. I watched online videos to learn new techniques, joined webinars, and attended workshops and networking events. Within a year my income had doubled and then another year later it had nearly tripled. I was now working what felt like two full-time jobs; working around the clock, late nights, and weekends. It got to the point where it wasn’t healthy, and I needed to make a choice. Something had to go. I loved the company I was working for, but I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to do what I love and be my own boss. I have been more successful working for myself than I have ever been working for anyone else – it was the best decision I had ever made. If I could do it differently, I know I should have taken the leap a lot sooner.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Andrea Spano. I am a mother to a beautiful baby girl, a lover of the outdoors, and an enthusiast of all things creative.

I am a full-time photographer and business owner. I cover a wide range of photography genres: weddings, events, couples, families, maternity, newborns, headshots, portraits and more. I have always been a people person. I find myself naturally connecting with others. Photography has allowed me to build amazing relationships with so many people. I love that I get to be myself and thrive because of it.

Nothing fulfills me more than bringing happiness to others through my images. To me, there is no greater honor than being trusted to capture someone’s memories and important moments. I put my heart into every photo session. I arrive as a photographer but leave as a friend. Building these genuine relationships with clients has not only filled my life with friendship but increased my business growth year after year with returning clients. Word of mouth referrals has been my number one catalyst for growth.

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

I believe that clients should always have a fun experience when working with a photographer. When they are feeling comfortable, laughing, and genuinely having an enjoyable time the best images will naturally shine through and their personalities will be represented. They will look back on the photos and associate them with a fond memory – loving the images even more. The number one piece of feedback I receive from clients in reviews is that I make them feel comfortable. Personality is so very important when working with people and I bring it to every session.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I love using creativity in everything I do and getting lost in my passion. I still face challenges, difficult situations, and stresses just like any other job. Running a business on your own is by no means easy. It comes with a lot of pressure; I make mistakes and learn from them. However, I get to wake up every morning and do what I love most. Work doesn’t feel like work when it’s rooted in your heart. That is the best feeling in the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.akphotography.org
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/akphotographyma
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/akphotographyma

Image Credits
AK Photography