Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Deborah Santoro. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Deborah thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
I always wanted to be a photographer. My parents gave me my first camera when I was eight years old. It was one of my dad’s old cameras. I took it with me everywhere. I loved taking images of places during different seasons to see how they changed. I realized how important images are when I had my first child. As the years go by memories fade, but images can bring them back to life. I realized the importance of capturing moments because sometimes all you have left is a picture. I learned the art of photography by capturing as many images as possible through the year. However, when I decided to become a professional photographer and open my own studio, I knew I had to continue my education to improve my skills in order to provide the best quality of images to my clients. Since then I have trained with some of the best photographers in the business. I have taken multiple photography courses and joined professional photography groups. I am also a member of the Professional Photographers of America. I think everybody learns at their own pace, but if I could go back in time I would have taken some business classes earlier in my professional career. When I first started I was not very knowledgeable in the business aspect of my profession. All I wanted to do was photograph my wonderful clients and neglected the marketing and other business activities that were essential in order to have a successful studio. After a couple of years I learned my lessons and took courses and seminars to help me achieve my business goals.
The best skills to have a successful business is to provide excellent customer service. My goal is for my clients to have a memorable and wonderful experience. I guide my clients throughout the whole process, and I work really close with them to make their vision come true. As a boutique photographer I specialize in fine art products. Together with my clients we create wall art that can be passed down for generations.
As my business expands I have less time for education. However, I make it a priority to continue my education and learn new skills. I set aside a few weeks each year to attend in person conferences and online classes.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
I am a portrait photographer. I specialize in family, children, maternity and newborn photography. I have loved photography since I was young child. I used to dream about being a photographer. I started my professional career after having my first child. We had a newborn photoshoot, and I was pleased with the results. But that’s when I realized that time passes by and children grow up so fast, and I feel photographs can keep time still. I strive to capture images that allow people to relive special moments. Even now that my children are older, we sit together and look at their baby albums together. I love looking at those images with my babies. I decided I wanted to provide that same feeling to other people. Our portrait experience is different than most other photographers. Each session is unique to the needs of the client. I work closely with the client to design a session with the end art product in mind. Photography sessions are decided in four parts. First, we have the consultation in person or zoom where clients share their vision and where they would like to display their beautiful artwork. Clients receive a welcome guide that describes what to expect during and after the session. The second part is the session itself. Photography sessions take place at a location chosen together with the client. About three weeks after the session, we have the viewing and ordering appointment. This is the first time the clients see their beautiful images and choose the ones they like the most to display in their home. About four weeks from the ordering appointment the art pieces will be delivered to the clients home. I love our fine arts products. I offer fine art matted prints, wall art and heirloom albums all handcrafted in Italy. They are museum-like quality prints.
How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?
During the time I work with my clients I send them reminders regarding our session and follow ups. I make sure that I am in touch with my clients every week. I know that photo sessions can be stressful, especially if clients have little ones, but I try to alleviate the stress as much as possible. My goal is provide excellent customer service and make sure clients have a memorable and stress free experience. Therefore, I guide them throughout the whole process. I provide email and text reminders regarding appointments’ date and times. I provide a welcome guide to help prepare for the photoshoot. After the ordering appointment I send multiple follow up emails providing updates on their order status. After, the final art products have been delivered, I keep in-touch with all of my clients. I send a monthly newsletter, holiday and birthday cards. I want to build a long lasting relationships with all of my clients. There isn’t a better compliment than repeat clients.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
Referrals are the best source of new clients for me. There is nothing more flattering than a referral. About seventy percent of all new businesses are created by word of mouth. I also meet new clients during local functions and charity events. I like to give back to my community, and I try to donate my time as much as possible. During some of these local events I have made connections with other business owners that has created opportunities for both of our businesses.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://heirloommoments.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heirloommoments/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeirloomMomentsPhoto/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/34740857
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/heirloom-moments-photography-chula-vista-3
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/HeirloomMoments/
Image Credits
Heirloom Moments Photography