We were lucky to catch up with Dora Breaux recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Dora thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

As a wedding and portrait photographer, as well as a studio owner, the mission of providing inclusivity in my marketing material is deeply important to me. I believe that every individual, regardless of their background, should see themselves represented and celebrated in the art of photography. By showcasing diverse couples, families, and individuals, I aim to create a welcoming and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and beautiful. This commitment to inclusivity not only reflects my values but also fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance within the community I serve.

Moreover, teaching young creatives that they can make money doing what they love is a mission close to my heart. Many aspiring photographers and artists face the myth of the “starving artist,” believing that pursuing their passion means sacrificing financial stability. I want to dispel this myth by demonstrating that with strategic planning and a strong business mindset, it is entirely possible to thrive in the creative industry. Through mentorship and education, I strive to equip young creatives with the tools and knowledge they need to build successful careers, enabling them to turn their artistic passions into sustainable and fulfilling livelihoods. This approach not only empowers the next generation of artists but also enriches the creative landscape with diverse and vibrant voices.

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?

My journey into the photography industry began with a simple request to my husband for a camera. At the time, I was transitioning out of the military and was looking for a creative outlet. What started as a fun hobby quickly blossomed into a passion, and I decided to turn this newfound love for photography into a business. Fast forward nine years, and here I am, providing wedding and portrait services as well as photographic products.

In addition to my photography services, I am also the proud owner of Rent A Set, a company that offers studio rental spaces for creative freelancers. This venture allows me to support and nurture the creative community by providing a professional space for their work.

When potential clients are searching for a wedding or portrait photographer to capture their special moments, I strive to offer more than just excellent photos. My team and I focus on delivering an exceptional customer service experience, coupled with the expertise of photographing a diverse range of people. This ensures that every client feels seen, valued, and celebrated.

One of my proudest achievements is being able to employ young people at my studio. Watching them grow and thrive in a supportive environment brings me immense joy. Moreover, growing my business to the point where I could leave my 9-to-5 job has been incredibly fulfilling.

When potential clients choose to work with me, they can expect a consistent quality of work and a customer service experience that always puts their needs first. My commitment to inclusivity and excellence ensures that every client receives the best possible experience, every time.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, my wedding photography business faced an enormous challenge. With restrictions on indoor gatherings, traditional wedding ceremonies were no longer viable. As couples scrambled to find alternatives, I knew I needed to pivot quickly to keep my business afloat.

I was able to focus on beach weddings, seeing the open-air settings as a perfect solution. I worked alongside a local beach wedding planning business. They began referring all their clients to me as an add-on to their beach wedding collections.

Our first joint wedding was a simple yet beautiful ceremony. The couple, initially disheartened by the indoor restrictions, were thrilled with the beach setting. The golden sand, the gentle waves, and the open sky created a stunning backdrop for their special day. The photos turned out to be some of the most beautiful I had ever taken, capturing the essence of love and tranquility in a challenging time.

As more couples learned about our beach wedding services through the planning business, the inquiries started pouring in. Each beach wedding offered a unique, picturesque setting that made for unforgettable photos. The planning business handled the logistics, ensuring everything from seating arrangements to floral decor matched the natural beauty of the beach, while I focused on capturing the magical moments.

This partnership proved to be a game-changer. The demand for our beach weddings soared, and my business grew exponentially. The beach weddings were not only a hit with couples looking for safe, outdoor options but also with their guests who appreciated the serene and spacious environment.

The success of this pivot reinforced my belief in the importance of flexibility and collaboration in business. Working side by side with the beach wedding planning business allowed us both to thrive during a time of uncertainty. It was a testament to the power of creative problem-solving and the willingness to adapt.

This experience has not only saved my business but also opened up new avenues for growth and innovation. By embracing change and working collaboratively, we were able to turn a challenging situation into an incredible opportunity.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

One crucial lesson I’ve learned in my journey as a business owner is the importance of hiring a bookkeeper or utilizing financial software like QuickBooks, even from the early stages of your business. When you’re just starting out, it might seem manageable to handle your own finances, but as your business begins to grow, it can quickly become overwhelming.

In the early days, keeping track of your income, expenses, and taxes might feel straightforward. However, once your business hits its stride and you’re juggling multiple clients, managing bookings, and expanding your services, it becomes increasingly difficult to find the time to focus on organizing your financials. This is where having a dedicated bookkeeper or reliable financial software comes in.

A bookkeeper can ensure that your financial records are accurate, up-to-date, and compliant with tax laws, freeing you to concentrate on what you do best—capturing beautiful moments and growing your business. They can provide valuable insights into your financial health, helping you make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.

Alternatively, using financial software like QuickBooks can streamline the process, offering tools for invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting. These tools can automate many tasks, saving you time and reducing the risk of errors. QuickBooks, for instance, can integrate with your bank accounts and other financial institutions, providing a real-time view of your business’s financial status.

Investing in financial organization early on prevents the chaos of trying to sort through piles of receipts and invoices when you’re already swamped with work. It ensures that as your business grows, your financial management scales with it, allowing you to maintain control and clarity over your finances. This foundation of financial stability is essential for long-term success and can make the difference between merely surviving and truly thriving in your business.

Contact Info:

• Website: dorabreaux.com | rentasetva.com
• Instagram: dorabreauxphoto | rent.a.set.studio
• Facebook: dorabreauxphotography | rentasetstudio