Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Los Angeles newborn photographer Ariel Cannon. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Ariel, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

My photography business has evolved over the years. I started Ariel Cannon Photography as a generalist family photographer. As you might imagine, there is a lot of competition in this area, especially in a large market like Los Angeles. The turning point for me, which brought my business from the “supplemental income” category to “breadwinner” category was when I pivoted my focus to newborn photography. When my second child was born, I decided I wanted newborn portraits done for him. This wasn’t something that I did with my first child, and I always regretted it. As a first-time mother, I didn’t know how fleeting the newborn stage was. However, when I started looking for a photographer for my son I was discouraged. Nobody near me was offering the style of photography that I was envisioning (clean, minimalist, and natural). Everyone was using brightly colored back-drops and swaddles and props. Lots and lots of props! I ended up taking his newborn photographs myself. They weren’t perfect, but the process ignited a spark in me. I studied newborn photography (style, technique, and safety) and eventually began practicing with models. As I developed my style and my skills, I began offering newborn photography services to my clients. I never looked back. There were so many parents out there that had the same experience I had. They couldn’t find anyone to take natural newborn photographs of their babies… until they found me! I still offer family photography, but these days it’s mostly for clients who started with me at the newborn stage.

Ariel, 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?

I am best known for my natural newborn photography. My clients come to me from all over Southern California, because they are looking for something a little bit different.

I create natural newborn portraits with a minimalist aesthetic. No props, costumes, or unnatural posing. Just the quiet perfection of baby and family.

I bring this same approach to my motherhood and family portraiture. My goal is always to create photographs for my clients that are beautiful and timeless. I want them to look at their photographs 30 years from now and still love them.

The other main driver in my business is to make things easy for my clients. As a working mom of two, I know how hectic life can be. I offer studio wardrobe, so my clients don’t have to do too much shopping, and museum quality prints and albums, so my clients can enjoy their photographs in print without having to do a ton of work themselves.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

My best strategy has been to really take care of my clients. A lot of my business comes from repeat clients and new clients who are referred to me. Because I focus on newborn photography, most of my clients come to me at a time in their lives when they are feeling a little bit vulnerable. It can be scary to leave the house with your baby and hand them to a stranger. I try to make every interaction with me (from first inquiry to album delivery) a comfortable experience. I tell new parents what to expect, help them prepare, and have created a very gentle session experience for them. Having a new baby is hard and I think that showing my clients that I understand that and giving them the support they need has grown my business immeasurably.

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

I am one of those people who likes a lot of information. If I’m planning a purchase or researching a product, I want to know everything I can. I provide a lot of detail on my website, on my Instagram, and in the collateral I send my clients. I’m very transparent about what a session entails, why I approach photography the way I do, and how my clients can best prepare for their experience. I also share a lot of information that will help parents looking for a photographer, even if that photographer doesn’t end up being me. So, other than showcasing quality work and getting 5-star reviews from my clients, I think the communication I provide at all levels of my business has helped build my reputation.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.arielcannonphoto.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arielcannonphoto/

Image Credits
Ariel Cannon Photography