Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Elisabeth Akly. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Elisabeth, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s start with a story that highlights an important way in which your brand diverges from the industry standard.
Definitely! What a lot of people don’t realize is that a huge part of producing a professional portrait is in the post production editing. While it’s just as important to know the camera, lighting and composition, taking the photo to the next level all happens in the editing afterwards. The only difference is that in my process the afterwards is right now!
Usually when working with a photographer, you have your photo session, you wait for proofs to be sent to you, and then if retouching is an option, they will be retouched and sent back weeks later. My process is a one-stop-shop where everything is done on-site and in-person. First, I capture all the images while guiding my clients through each pose. Then, I sit down with them to look through all the photos immediately after their photo session. After selecting their favorite photo, I do all the retouching on-site with the client looking on. This is the part that is different than the industry standard and makes for a great experience for my clients.
By doing all the editing in-person, I ensure that every subject is retouched just as much or as little as they want, and the end result is a flawless photo that they are guaranteed to love. The final photo is delivered on flashdrive for the client to keep, so their headshot is ready to post or print right away!
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 proud to say I was born and raised right here in Atlanta, Ga . After graduating from the University of Georgia in 2010 with a BFA in Interior Design, I went to work for a boutique architectural firm, called RCG.
My position there required me to wear several different hats, and I was able to perfect my skills in graphic design, interior architecture, and yes, photography. While I loved the work, I always had a desire be an entrepreneur, so years later when a family friend asked if I wanted to help start a photography company, I jumped at the chance!
We started the company under the name Image Bureau in 2013, and I quickly started to learn the ins and outs of entrepreneurship. After a few years of steadily growing the business, I was able to successfully buyout the Image Bureau and continue to do what I love as the proud owner of Hello Headshots!
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
The best source of new clients for me has definitely been word of mouth. More often than not, the first thing my clients say upon meeting them is, “I hate having my picture taken!”. By the end of their appointment there is sigh of relief, a smile on their face, and I always get a comment of, “that was so painless!”. After experiencing a surprisingly easy process I often have people refer me to a friend or spouse on the spot!
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
I think what helps build my reputation is the personal interaction I have with my clients during the photo process. No one likes having their headshot taken so it’s important that I make everyone feel comfortable, confident and relaxed. By connecting with each person I am able to capture their best look and surprise them with how easy and painless the headshot process can be.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.helloheadshots.photo
- Instagram: hello_headshots
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/helloheadshots
Image Credits
Hello Headshots