We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Elena Burley. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Elena below.

Elena , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.

Growing up, my parents would sign up to chaperone my school field trips and events. My mom worked at my school and was known to be strict and structured. She would show up to my school orientations prepared with a notebook and pen, ready to ask the admins an array of questions. I felt slightly embarrassed because no one else’s parent did that.

In general, I was a hard-working kid. I took double the courses just to graduate early. Already overwhelmed with classes, volunteering and internships, you can imagine my teenage reaction when my parents told me that I needed to get a part-time job. I was beyond upset, and I felt unappreciated for all of my efforts; I thought: “If they can afford my car insurance and fuel, why should I have to get a job?”

While at my first job, I often had some free time. I learned to use that time to get caught up on homework and projects. When I had 15 minutes between classes, I learned to pack a lunch and eat while studying in my car. Time-management and self-discipline soon became second nature to me; And because I was now responsible for some of my bills, budgeting and investing became part of my knowledge as well. My mother always emphasized the importance of being self-sufficient, and in certain ways, my dad taught me that there is much more to life than just money. Both of my parents are very generous people, and both are very productive with inspirational work ethics.

A lot of times, when you are young, you don’t understand or appreciate the things your parents have you do. I now see how those life lessons have benefited me in my life and in my business. I get to make an income doing something I genuinely love; I am able to give back generously to others; I manage my time relatively well, and know the importance of life’s priorities; I even keep a notebook and pen with me so that I can take notes and ask questions where ever I may be.

I am grateful for the life lessons I’ve been privileged to learn through my parents. I truly feel that I was prepared for adulthood and, to a degree, entrepreneurship.

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 background and context?

Hello! My name is Elena Burley. I am a professional brand photographer and content strategist. Like many photographers, I began my journey taking photos of everything and everyone. But in 2020, I discovered the specialized niche of brand photography and decided to dive in full-fledged.

I had always thought that brand photography was just headshots in business. I soon learned that there is A LOT more to the trade and headshots barely scratch the surface. Brand photography incorporates creative marketing, business strategy, brand recognition, social media insight, and the craft of photography all in one.

Clients come to me:

-To create a full photo gallery of on-brand, professional images to showcase their brand;
-To teach them how to implement those images so they can grow their online presence and stand out in their industry;
-To feel confident in their visual messaging; and
-To have a lot of fun!

In addition to offering personal brand photography, I also offer lifestyle product photography. This includes photos of products by themselves, with props, or modeled on a subject.

The best part of my job is the genuine connection I get to make with other entrepreneurs and business owners. I am big on transparency and authenticity, so it is important that people feel comfortable and heard when they are with me.
Though running a business is a continuous journey of ups and downs, it is inspiring to be surrounded by like-minded individuals who endure all trials that are thrown their way.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

Networking has hands down been the best source of new clients for me. The more I get to know other business owners, the more likely I am to refer them and maybe even hire them for my own business. I am in a networking group with many other ladies who do the same for me. The referrals have been wonderful and I am always happy to send my clients to others in my network.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is that I get to do what I love while making an income AND helping others. I love that I get to combine strategy with art. Each brand challenges my creative side because I have to create unique visual marketing material while also fostering client relationships and keeping up with social media trends. It is really fun!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.bandebranding.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/bandebranding
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bandebranding

Image Credits
Photo of Elena outside by: Jocelyn Espejo All other images by: Ben & Elena Burley