We were lucky to catch up with Frederick Jefferds recently and have shared our conversation below.

Frederick, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. One of our favorite things to brainstorm about with friends who’ve built something entrepreneurial is what they would do differently if they were to start over today. Surely, there are things you’ve learned that would allow you to do it over faster, more efficiently. We’d love to hear how you would go about setting things up if you were starting over today, knowing everything that you already know.

If I were starting over, I would commit to growing the business full-time from the beginning. I’ve realized that dedicating my full energy early on would have accelerated progress and opened up more opportunities. Additionally, I would prioritize building relationships with complementary businesses and service providers. Strategic networking and collaborations can create powerful synergies and drive mutual growth far more effectively than trying to do everything in isolation. I would keep engaged with makeup artists, bridal shops, lingerie businesses, and increase my social media presence.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

What I’ve Learned Along the Way

One of the things I’ve come to truly appreciate on my photography journey is how much people genuinely enjoy helping one another. Early on, when I joined a photography group, I realized that all I had to do was ask questions. If I didn’t know something—whether it was how to adjust my camera settings, achieve the right exposure or depth of field, or properly pose and compose a shot—someone was always willing to stop what they were doing to help.

That spirit of generosity and community made a lasting impact on me. It reminded me that learning is a shared journey, and there’s no shame in asking for help. In fact, it’s one of the best ways to grow.

Looking back, I wish I had gotten more involved earlier. I wish I had attended more photography events and joined the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) sooner. There are so many resources, networking opportunities, and tools available through organizations like PPA that can help you take your craft and your business to the next level.

The main reason I didn’t take full advantage of these opportunities in the beginning was because I was trying to build my photography business part-time while working full-time to support my family. It was a tough balancing act, but one I’m proud of. Still, if I could go back, I’d tell my younger self to lean into the community sooner. The support, encouragement, and knowledge are out there—you just have to ask.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Resilience Through Reinvention

Over the course of my career, I’ve learned that change isn’t just inevitable—it’s an opportunity to grow, evolve, and take control of your future.

I’ve had the privilege of leading and managing teams of skilled professionals throughout my career—in the U.S. Army, The Boeing Company, Emerson Electric, and DHL Express. These experiences taught me the importance of discipline, strategic thinking, and servant leadership. During that time, I also completed my MBA, with every intention of continuing to grow within corporate leadership roles.

As the years went on, I began to recognize an uncomfortable truth: job security in corporate America is never guaranteed. Layoffs, mergers, and restructuring often disrupted even the most carefully laid plans. After nearly 25 years in the corporate world developing software solutions, I realized I needed to create something of my own.

In 2004, I made my first major pivot, leaving my full-time job to launch a real estate business. I became a licensed real estate broker in both Kentucky and Ohio, and I’ve been helping clients buy and sell homes ever since.

In 2009, I pivoted again—this time into photography. What started as a hobby, taking photos of my sons at sporting events, quickly grew into something more when other parents began requesting photos. That experience inspired me to launch Jefferds Photography, and later, Stunning Boudoir Photography, where I specialize in empowering clients through artistic, confidence-boosting portraits.

Both businesses were born out of fear of instability—but they’ve become sources of creativity, independence, and purpose. Today, I run both ventures full time, grateful for the flexibility and fulfillment they provide.

Each pivot in my journey has taught me that the key to long-term success isn’t just hard work—it’s being willing to adapt, take calculated risks, and build your own opportunities.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.stunningboudoir.com, www.jefferdsphotography.com
• Instagram: stunningboudoirphotography
• Facebook: jefferds