We were lucky to catch up with Emily Young recently and have shared our conversation below.

Emily, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.

The photography realm is very saturated. Not to mention the crazy amount of new technology and AI software that makes it seem “easy” to be a professional photographer. I have been in love with the art of photography since I was in middle school. I began to take my hobby more seriously and photograph families and events around 2016 when I received my first professional camera as a gift. Finally, in 2024 I took a risk, not knowing if I would fail or succeed, and started by photography business in July. It was THE BEST decesion that I have ever made. I have learned so much as a business owner and growing photograper in such a short amount of time. There are so many more things to learn and skills to perfect as I continue on this challenging but beautiful journey.

Emily, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hi, I’m Emily.

I am the owner of Photos by Emily Rose, LLC. I am so happy to meet you. Here is a little bit about me:

I am a published photographer in multiple magazines. My interest in photography started in middle school. For as long as I can remember, I was the girl behind the camera at every event/gathering with family and friends. I have always been fascinated with the fun and creative parts of photography; and how you can make a single moment last forever. I photograph weddings, couples, lifestyle, and more!

Whenever I am not behind a camera or working, I enjoy spending time with my significant other, and best friend, Rhett. We love to spend time with our little one, family and friends. I am a full time college student, and I work at a local cancer center/research institute.

Jesus is our #1. I am who I am because of God’s never-ending love!

I bring my camera EVERYWHERE. You never know when you may see something interesting or have a photo opportunity. My camera roll on my phone is FULL of sky pictures and random photos. No matter the event, style, or place; I can’t wait to hear from you so we can capture the best memories that you and your loved ones can cherish for a lifetime!

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

HAVE A PLAN! It is so important to make sure that you plan out your content on a weekly basis. I always plan out my social media content on Saturday’s for the following week, Sunday through Saturday. I am sure to incorporate session content that I plan to edit for that following week, BTS (behind the scenes) content at my photo sessions, testimonals from clients, tips and tricks for both clients AND other photographers, etc. There are so many different ideas that photographers can research both online and on all social meda platforms that can help boost your creative side and help with content ideas. Be sure to post often, AT LEAST every other day, but daily is preferred. I DO NOT recommend posting multiple times per day and “spamming” your followers feed. Creating incentives for clients to share your page/work is helpful as well, i.e. giveaways. I try to have a few giveaways a year. The biggest thing to remeber is to find your niche and to BE YOURSELF. The right clients will gravitate to you because they love your style and art.

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

Being a business-owner and the sole employee of my business, organization is crucial! As a photographer, my favorite online software that I utilize to help me stay organized and on time is called “Pixieset”. This software helps me keep client information, invoices, contracts, documents, calendars, client galleries, website editing, etc. all in one place. There is a client section in my personal and private pixieset account that helps me record clients names, phone numbers, emails and business names (if applicable). In additon to this software keeping all the information in one place, I also utilize Siri on my phone to remind me of MANY things. For example; to reach out to certain clients that I need to touch base with, remind me of creating contracts/documets/invoices for a new client, FaceTime conferences, etc. The last thing that helps me keep in touch with clients and brand loyalty, is my response time. I pride myself in responding to each new inquiry and returning clients in less than 12 hours. The client feeling like a priority and being sure to treat them with respect and kindess is so very important.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://photosbyemilyrose40.mypixieset.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photosbyemilyrose_?igsh=MXE3bzc2bHkwMTQ5MQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559927289441&mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/photos-by-emily-rose-ocala

Image Credits

Photos by Emily Rose LLC