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

Hi Emily, thanks for joining us today. What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your career and how did you resolve those issues?
Managing expectations is very important in the photography business. When you are working with families, or seniors, you’re photographing the most valuable people in their life. I’ve found that from the start, you manage their emotions and expectations. I do that through clear communication in their automated workflow pieces, a contract agreement outlining what they receive, and what I will do, and how the process will finish for the client. Once a client knows what they need to know, it frees them up to consider what other concerns or questions they might have, and now they have an avenue to ask. Every new client to my brand, is offered a discovery call to explore their goals & ideas. I have found that helps as we can discuss wardrobe thoughts and location options. Excellent communication is key to running a successful business. When anything doesn’t go the client’s way, in their mind, they will reach out. With any type of conflict or misunderstanding, I will send them a brief reply, apologize if need to, and call them as soon as my schedule allows. Clients have earned the right to be called, and pursued in conflict. Making it right as much as you can, is important. When it your fault, own it. When it is not your fault, make it better if you can.

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 first got into family photography after a friend asked me to help her photograph weddings with her! It was a whirlwind as she had 29 weddings that year! I learned alot about people, managing emotions & taking care of myself in those long days so I could do a great job!! Working in photography allows me to pursue different genres, and I love that part! Currently I photograph families & seniors under this brand, and then start another brand exclusively for headshots, EM Corporate. It’s been fabulous to do what I love, and refer what I don’t love. I’ve found that doing that helps me in the end, and my clients as they receive the best care. I’m proud to offer my best services to clients and challenge myself to grow in lighting, posing & client communication year after year. Taking great care of my clients is my goal, and exceeding their expectations is always a good time!

Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?
My executive assistant, Kristen is a former client! She caught my eye and ear as she is a great communicator, caring and overall just is super helpful. I was so honored to was willing to work with me and has stayed with me for 3 years now! Having her makes me better, and the client experience much more layered and lovely!!

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?
My first camera that I purchased, was a gift from my mother-in-law, which was very unexpected. I had previously been borrowing my friends, and it was great, but tricky as I had to plan extra time to pick up and take back. I remember my MIL was visiting, and she mentioned she wanted to help me. I’ll never forget that feeling of shock. While Marie was the most gracious, kind and best cookie maker, she hadn’t been financially generous to us until then. She wrote me a check for $2500 and I purchased a Canon 60d and the kit lens. I couldn’t get enough of it!! I was in love, and will never forget her generosity to me that day.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.emilymeganphotography.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/emilymeganphoto
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/emilymeganphoto
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/emcorporate
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/emcorporate
• Other: LinkedIn and Twitter are my headshot brand only. Use as you see fit.

Image Credits
Emily Megan Photography