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

Alright, Candy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. 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?

I started out doing free shoots just trying to figure out if I was good enough to charge my worth. As soon as I felt ready, I started to charge but I was too afraid to charge a reasonable daily rate. Fear was the obstacle that was always in my way to a successful career. I kept slowly increasing my rates yearly but every year, I kept working more hours because I kept increasing my client base. I remember working all hours into the night editing, and after doing all that, realizing that my hourly rate was less than one would make working at a fast food restaurant. I knew I needed to change how I was running my business. I knew that for me not to get burnt out, I needed to make sure that I charged my worth. As soon as I did that, my client load lessened and I was able to focus more time on each individual client, thus improving my customer service. I was working with less clients, making triple what I made, and I outsourced most of my workflow. Giving me time with my family back was such a gift.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I own SugaShoc Photography based in Bucks County PA. I started the business about 11 years ago just photographing my own kids and my passion for capturing moments was born. I offer custom maternity, newborn and boudoir photography. My true passion is photographing women and all the stages of their lives. It brings me such joy when I can show a photograph to a client and watch them fall in love with themselves all over again. I am a full service photography studio so I offer a full wardrobe for my clients and for kids, a full product range from albums to wall art, and I customize each session base on my clients’ individual likes and dislikes.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

I had to teach myself that I am not my ideal client. My ideal client wants someone to do everything for them from styling the session, taking the photos, to creating wall art for their home. Once I learned that, I felt more confident charging what I charge.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I believe that customer service is the most important thing in any business. We are a people driven industry. The way we treat others is how we make a huge impression. I believe that because of my customer service, no matter what, I have always found a way to make my clients happy. Happy clients mean they will always recommend you and word of mouth is the best advertising!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sugashocphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sugashocphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SugaShocPhotography/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sugashocphotography/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/sugashoc
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CandyHoehn
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/sugashoc-photography-doylestown

Image Credits
Nicole Moeser – Hair & Makeup https://www.instagram.com/makeupbynicolemoeser/