Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Danielle Krippes. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Danielle thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
I am 100% self-taught! I started learning everything about photography during the pandemic. I used the opportunity to not only practice, but set aside the time to learn the technical side of my camera and how to edit.
Looking back, I could have dedicated more time to watching videos, doing research, etc.
However, every craft takes time and practice! It’s not always going to come quick and be easy. Practice really does improve your craft.
Danielle, 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?
I was born and raised in Orange County, CA. I graduated from Cal State Fullerton with a degree in psychology and never saw myself starting a side photography business. However, growing up I was always the friend who took the photos and did the editing, so it has all come full circle. Additionally, I took yearbook as my elective all four years in high school which I LOVED. Back then I didn’t use the cameras but was actually the one students in charge of designing the page layouts and typing up the copy for the pages. Today, I work in graphic design and create new projects all the time. I love being able to combine all of my creative skills and offer them to my clients.
I provide all types of photography services. Weddings, proposals, family sessions, headshots, maternity, newborn, events, product and content, etc. I will do any shoot! I am most proud of the detail and time I put into each shoot. For me, it starts with the initial outreach from the client. I love being able to meet new incredible people all the time, learn about what they are looking for and help them achieve their vision. I always make sure my clients are comfortable the entire time and they are loving the photos as we go.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
Back in 2021, I was working for my first full-time job which I grew to quickly dislike as it was not something I was passionate about. This was about a year into my photography and I made the decision to quit my full-time job to focus only on photography. What I quickly learned was that unless you build up a client base and have all the time and energy to put into marketing, it is not easy in the start. Due to the lack of experience at the time and clients really only being friends and family, I became discouraged. About 6 months later I ended up taking a new full-time position where I am currently still working today. At the same time, my photography business is the best it has ever been! I am so glad I didn’t give up and was patient enough to wait for my business to grow.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
For starters, since this is my side business, I am able to charge less than what is expected usually. Along with charging lower prices, I will always still go above and beyond for my shoots and clients. I strive to make each clients experience a fun and comfortable one. I don’t leave shoots until clients are completely satisfied either. I think these factors and the kind words and referrals from my clients has helped build me a reliable reputation as a photographer.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://daniellekrippes.com
- Instagram: @daniellekrippesphotos
