We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Barbara Delgado. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Barbara below.

Alright, Barbara thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. One of the toughest parts of scaling a business is maintaining quality as you grow. How have you managed to maintain quality? Any stories or advice?

I’d be happy to share my perspective as a business owner and photographer on how I maintained quality as my company grew, the quality controls I implemented, and their impact. I’ll also offer some advice for others who are concerned about quality control as they experience growth.

As my photography business expanded, maintaining quality became a top priority. I realized that scaling up should never compromise the excellence that had become synonymous with my brand. To achieve this, I established several quality control measures:
* Streamlined Workflow: With growth comes increased complexity. I restructured workflows to ensure efficient communication among team members, from the initial client contact to the final image delivery. This helped in minimizing errors and maintaining consistency.
* Clear Guidelines and Standards: I developed detailed guidelines and standards for every aspect of the photography process, from shooting techniques to post-processing. This ensured that all team members were on the same page regarding the quality expectations.
* Regular Feedback and Review: I implemented a system of regular feedback and review for all projects. This allowed us to identify areas for improvement and address any deviations from the established quality standards promptly.
For those concerned about maintaining quality while scaling their photography business, here are some key pieces of advice:
* Establish Clear Guidelines: Define your brand’s style, standards, and values. These guidelines will serve as the foundation for your quality control efforts.
* Invest in Training: Provide thorough training to all team members. Make sure they understand the importance of consistency and quality and are equipped with the skills to meet your standards.
* Regular Review and Feedback: Implement a system for ongoing review and feedback. Regular check-ins allow you to catch any deviations from your quality standards early on.
* Adapt and Learn: Be open to learning from mistakes. When issues arise, use them as opportunities to refine your quality control processes and make necessary adjustments.
* Technology Integration: Leverage technology to streamline workflows and maintain consistency. Project management tools, communication platforms, and automated processes can greatly aid in quality control.

Maintaining quality as a business grows requires a proactive approach, clear communication, and a commitment to your brand’s values. By implementing well-defined processes, continuous training, and effective feedback loops, you can ensure that your work retains its excellence even as your business expands.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m Barbara Delgado, and my journey in the world of photography spans over 13 rewarding years. Photography was always a passion, but I never imagined it would evolve into a thriving career and the foundation of a company that fills me with immense pride. What struck me recently is that my work has transcended mere picture-taking; I’ve become an integral part of my community’s history. Photography, in its essence, is a means of preserving the stories that shape our lives. This realization has ignited a deep sense of purpose in me.

Through my lens, I’ve had the privilege of not only capturing precious moments for my clients but also contributing to the rich tapestry of our local heritage. Every photograph I take becomes a fragment of time that will be remembered and cherished for generations to come. Whether I’m guiding clients through headshots or branding sessions, aiding them in projecting a professional image, or capturing family portraits that showcases the legacy of a family, I’m humbled to be a piece of these stories.

My journey has revealed the profound impact that photography can have.
A testament to the enduring power of visual storytelling.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

In the initial stages of launching my photography business, the landscape was incredibly chaotic. The intricacies of business management were foreign to me, leaving me feeling unprepared. My organizational skills were virtually nonexistent, and the absence of established processes and procedures only added to the challenge. It truly felt like a relentless 24/7 endeavor. There was countless late nights and moments of self-doubt that I had to confront and conquer. Amid this whirlwind, a pivotal factor emerged—my willingness to seek assistance. This proved to be a game-changer. I realized the value of reaching out and connecting with a community of mentors and likeminded people who shared my aspirations. Their guidance and insights acted as guiding lights, illuminating the path forward. Surrounding myself with those who not only empathized with my journey but also who wanted to see me succeed. I also began delegating tasks that weren’t aligned with my strengths. Outsourcing areas where I lacked expertise made a significant impact on my efficiency and the overall quality of my work.
In retrospect, this phase of chaos was an invaluable learning experience. It reinforced the power of humility in seeking help, of constructing a supportive network, and of recognizing that success doesn’t rest solely on one’s shoulders. The journey from chaos to clarity was daunting but illuminating—a testimony to the growth that stems from embracing vulnerability and the wisdom of those who have tread similar paths.

Any advice for managing a team?

Maintaining a strong sense of morale is so important for our client experience. Despite being a small team, we collaborate with industry-leading companies that impart invaluable insights on effective teamwork and communication. We prioritize fostering an environment where everyone’s voice is heard, making room for open expression of emotions.

Our commitment to enhancing team dynamics is reflected in our active engagement with leadership workshops. These sessions help us refine our collaborative skills and refine how we interact with one another.

Moreover, we believe in the importance of cultivating strong relationships within the team. We carve out dedicated space for each team member to share their thoughts and feelings, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding.

Balancing work and team cohesion, we incorporate engaging activities that not only facilitate bonding but also inject an element of enjoyment into our workdays. We’re dedicated to ensuring that these activities don’t compromise our work efficiency.

Ultimately, our efforts to uplift morale aren’t just about creating a positive workspace. They directly translate into an enhanced client experience, as our team’s synergy and enthusiasm contribute to the high-quality service we provide.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.thebdexperience.com
• Instagram: thebdexperience
• Facebook: BD Photos
• Linkedin: Bd Photography
• Youtube: the Bd Experience Studio

Image Credits
Barbara Delgado