Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ben Irving. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Ben , appreciate you joining us today. It’s easy to look at a business or industry as an outsider and assume it’s super profitable – but we’ve seen over and over again in our conversation with folks that most industries have factors that make profitability a challenge. What’s biggest challenge to profitability in your industry?

The biggest challenge to profitability in the photography industry is a combination of factors. Here are some that in my opinion are the most significant.

Market saturation and competition. Almost anyone with a decent camera and some basic skills can call themselves a photographer. This leads to a highly competitive market especially in popular genres such as weddings and portraits.

Client expectations and pricing. Many clients don’t fully understand the costs involved in professional photography (equipment, time, editing, etc.) and may expect low prices or even free work. This makes it challenging to charge what you’re worth.

Stock photos and free online resources: The availability of high-quality stock photos and free image editing tools has reduced the demand for professional photography in some areas.

Lastly, smartphone cameras: While not a replacement for professional photography, improved smartphone cameras have enabled people to take decent photos for personal use, reducing the need to hire a photographer for everyday events.

Ben , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Photography has always been an interest of mine ever since I was young. What really drew me into photography, was a desire to capture moments and tell stories visually. For me, it started with a point and shoot camera that my parents had. I picked it up and began experimenting, learning, and discovering what resonated with me. Mostly through self teaching and a little bit of formal study, photography became an addition in the best way.

My photography company offers Photography, Videography, Video Editing, Social Media and Marketing services. I help my clients create professional visual content. Clients may lack the skills or equipment to produce high-quality images or videos.
I provide professional photography and video services to ensure their visual content stands out, whether for marketing, branding, or personal use. Through high-quality imagery or video, I help clients tell their brand story, showcase their products or services, and create cohesive, engaging content that resonates with their target audience.

I go beyond just taking photos or videos—I craft a unique experience for each client. I take the time to understand their vision, style, and story, creating a collaborative process that feels personal and tailored to their needs. This could involve detailed consultations, pre-shoot planning, or even custom packages designed around their specific goals.

I want my clients to feel valued and understood, resulting in a stronger emotional connection to the work I create for them.

I am proud of my ability to capture genuine emotions and authentic moments, whether it’s the joy of a couple at their wedding, the determination of an athlete, or the beauty of a fleeting moment in nature. My work isn’t just about taking a picture; it’s about telling a real, raw story. Quality is non-negotiable for me. Every image I produce is crafted with care, precision, and attention to detail, ensuring my clients receive nothing less than the best. I don’t just treat clients as projects; I treat them as partners. They are there every step of the way to make sure they feel heard and understood, and that their vision is realized.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

Photography started out as a side project for me. I loved taking photos for friends of their special moments or of family on vacations, parties etc.

When I decided to do photography full-time, my wife and I had just moved and I was without a job wondering what to do next with my life. I talked to family and friends and got feedback. How can I improve my photography and am I solving a specific problem? I had to make sure there was a real market for my side hustle. Is there a demand for the product or service I was offering? Can it be profitable long-term?

The first thing I did after registering my business and setting up all my accounts, was to build my brand identity. One of the most important things in any business is to have a strong brand identity that resonates with your target audience. I wanted my brand to be personal so my clients would know they were getting a personalized one on one experience. After doing all of this I started to market myself so that I could gain clients. After a few months, this began to pay off.

My marketing efforts paid off and I got two huge clients. Landing a huge client was a defining moment for my business. It made the potential for growth significant. The impact of this milestone was multifaceted: it built credibility, expanded my network, provided excellent portfolio material, and set the stage for future opportunities.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Word-of-mouth marketing and building relationships have been incredibly valuable, especially for a photography business.

Photography is a personal service. People are trusting you to capture important moments, emotions, and memories.
By talking to people, you’re building trust and showing them your personality and passion. This helps potential clients feel comfortable and confident choosing you. When you connect with people authentically, they’re more likely to remember you and recommend you to others. Word-of-mouth referrals are incredibly powerful, as people trust recommendations from friends and family.

Every conversation is an opportunity to expand your network. You never know who someone might know or how they could connect you with potential clients or collaborators. Talking to people provides valuable insights into what potential clients are looking for, their concerns, and their preferences. This feedback can help you tailor your services and marketing efforts.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.benirvingmedia.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benirvingmedia_llc/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560145537183
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ben-irving-media/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@benirvingmedia

Image Credits

All photos taken by me Ben Irving Media