Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kadeem Benjamin. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Kadeem, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Alright, so you had your idea and then what happened? Can you walk us through the story of how you went from just an idea to executing on the idea

The seed for my photography business was planted in the moments spent capturing my own family’s joy and the beauty of my friends’ lives. I found immense satisfaction in freezing those precious moments in time, and I realized I wanted to extend this gift to others. The spark that lit this dream was the desire to assist people see the divine beauty within themselves through the lens of my camera.

Once the idea took root, I vividly remember the very next day. I was sitting at my kitchen table, sipping my morning tea, and sketching out my vision. I listed the essential steps: learning the intricacies of photography, setting up a website, and building a style of my own. My parents supported my passion by gifting me my first camera, Canon Rebel T3 (aka Teddy Rebel) which felt like holding the future in my hands. My great friend, Gian Torres, whose amazing work had inspired me to start taking photos, sold me my first prime lens, a 50mm 1.8. With this equipment, I felt confident enough to start creating.

In the following weeks, I sought every opportunity to practice and hone my skills. I interned with the media team at West Angeles Church where I would learn the bulk of my knowledge under the teachings of Nathan Brown. I then went on to intern for the clothing brand Popular Demand, sharpening my tools under the teachings of Mike Le. These experiences were invaluable, providing hands-on learning and a deeper understanding of the craft. Each shoot, whether at a church event or a fashion shoot, was a stepping stone. My confidence grew with every click of the shutter, and so did my portfolio.

The next phase was about creating continuously and passionately. Word-of-mouth referrals began to trickle in, turning into a steady stream of clientele. My passion for creating unforgettable moments only intensified, and the business began to take shape.

Parallel to this, The Daily Vibes Club was budding in my mind. During a tough period when I felt isolated and in need of positivity, I realized that others might be yearning for the same sense of refuge. The next day, I started sharing positive and uplifting quotes, affirmations, and statements on social media. The response was immediate and heartwarming. Messages poured in from people who felt seen and supported, and the community began to grow organically.

Balancing both ventures was challenging, but each day, hour, and month brought new lessons and small victories. My photography business started gaining traction as word-of-mouth referrals increased, and The Daily Vibes Club slowly transformed from an idea into a vibrant online community.

One of the most significant milestones in the first year was hosting my first photography exhibition. The overwhelming positive feedback reaffirmed that I was on the right path. Around the same time, The Daily Vibes Club launched its first product line—t-shirts and journals with uplifting messages. Seeing people wear and use these items was incredibly fulfilling; it was a tangible representation of the positivity we were spreading.

There were, of course, obstacles along the way. Balancing two startups required meticulous time management and unwavering dedication. There were nights filled with doubts and days that seemed too short for all the tasks at hand. But I leaned on a support system of friends, family, and mentors who believed in my vision and kept me motivated.

Reflecting on the journey from idea to execution, it’s clear that passion and purpose fueled every step. The drive to capture and celebrate beauty in all forms led me to photography, while a deep-seated need for a positive community birthed The Daily Vibes Club. Today, both ventures continue to evolve, but the core mission remains the same: to celebrate and spread beauty, positivity, and inspiration.

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 back background and context?

For those new to my story, I was born in Van Nuys, CA, and moved to Lakewood at the age of three, but I’ve always considered Long Beach my true home. I currently reside in Long Beach as well. My heritage is Guyanese, passed down through both of my parents. After graduating from Mayfair High School, I pursued higher education at CSU Long Beach and also took classes at the Art Institute of Orange County. My early interests spanned dance, singing, basketball, and drawing, which laid a diverse foundation for my creative journey.

Entry into the Industry:

My journey into photography began with a deep-seated desire to capture special moments for loved ones. My parents played a pivotal role by gifting me my first camera, while my friend Gian Torres, whose exceptional work inspired me, sold me my first prime lens, a 50mm 1.8.
Interning with the media team at West Angeles Church and with the fashion brand Popular Demand provided invaluable hands-on experience and further fueled my passion for photography.
Concurrently, during a challenging period in my life, I founded The Daily Vibes Club (DVC) to create a positive, uplifting community for those seeking refuge and inspiration.
Services and Products:

Photography: My photography services encompass portraits, events, and lifestyle shoots, focusing on capturing authentic moments and highlighting the inherent beauty in each individual.
The Daily Vibes Club: This lifestyle brand offers inspirational products like t-shirts and journals, alongside daily positive content and community events aimed at fostering a supportive environment.
Client Problems:

Photography: I help clients preserve cherished memories and see themselves in a new light through my photography.
The Daily Vibes Club: I address the need for positivity and a sense of belonging, providing a sanctuary where individuals can find encouragement and motivation.
Unique Selling Points:

Photography: My approach is deeply personal and client-centric, ensuring each session is comfortable and meaningful, resulting in genuine and captivating photographs.
The Daily Vibes Club: DVC stands out through its genuine commitment to spreading positivity and building a supportive community, both online and offline.
Proudest Achievement:

My proudest achievement is proving to myself that I can be the example of believing in your dreams and never quitting on your passions, no matter how challenging life may become or when it decides to take a pause. Continuing to move forward and pursuing my dreams relentlessly is what I cherish the most.
Key Messages:

Both my photography and The Daily Vibes Club are driven by a passion for celebrating beauty, positivity, and inspiration.
I want potential clients, followers, and supporters to know that my mission is to create lasting memories and cultivate a welcoming community where everyone feels uplifted and valued.
I am incredibly blessed to have the love and support of my beautiful wife and the daily motivation from my now 5-month-old baby boy, who inspire me to strive for excellence in everything I do.

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

Maintaining strong relationships with my clients and fostering brand loyalty are at the core of my business philosophy. Here are some of the key strategies I use to achieve this:

Personalized Communication:

I believe in the power of personalized communication. Whether it’s through emails, phone calls, or direct messages, I make an effort to reach out to clients on a personal level. This helps build a genuine connection and ensures they feel valued and appreciated.
Consistent Follow-ups:

After every photo session or event, I follow up with clients to ensure they are satisfied with the results. This follow-up isn’t just about business; it’s about showing that I care about their experience and their memories.
Social Media Engagement:

Social media platforms are a great way to stay connected with clients. I actively engage with clients by liking, commenting, and sharing their posts. This interaction helps maintain a continuous presence in their lives and keeps the connection strong.
Exclusive Offers and Loyalty Programs:

To reward loyal clients, I offer exclusive discounts, special packages, and early access to new products and services. Loyalty programs make clients feel special and appreciated, encouraging them to return for future services.
Community Building through The Daily Vibes Club:

The Daily Vibes Club (DVC) plays a crucial role in fostering brand loyalty. By creating a positive and supportive community, we encourage clients to participate in events, engage with our content, and connect with like-minded individuals. This sense of belonging strengthens their loyalty to the brand.
High-Quality Customer Service:

Providing exceptional customer service is paramount. I ensure that every client interaction is handled with professionalism, kindness, and a personal touch. Quick response times and resolving any issues efficiently contribute to a positive client experience.
Sharing Client Stories and Testimonials:

Highlighting client stories and testimonials on my website and social media platforms helps create a sense of community. It shows new and potential clients the positive experiences others have had and reinforces the trustworthiness of my services.
Regular Updates and Newsletters:

Sending out regular newsletters with updates, behind-the-scenes content, and tips keeps clients informed and engaged. It’s an excellent way to stay top-of-mind and demonstrate ongoing value.
Hosting Events and Workshops:

Hosting photography workshops, community events, and meet-ups through DVC provides an opportunity to interact with clients face-to-face. These events foster deeper connections and allow clients to engage with the brand on a more personal level.
Feedback and Improvement:

I actively seek feedback from clients to understand their needs and expectations better. This feedback is invaluable in continuously improving my services and ensuring that clients feel heard and valued.
By integrating these strategies, I aim to create a loyal client base that feels genuinely connected to both my photography services and The Daily Vibes Club. It’s about building relationships that go beyond business transactions and creating a community where everyone feels appreciated and inspired.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Absolutely, several books and resources have profoundly shaped my approach to management and entrepreneurship. Here are some that have been particularly influential:

“It Is Done” by Richard Dotts:

This book has been instrumental in helping me understand the power of intention and manifestation. Richard Dotts’ insights into how our thoughts and beliefs shape our reality have greatly influenced my approach to setting goals and achieving them with confidence.
“The Power of Your Subconscious Mind” by Joseph Murphy:

Joseph Murphy’s classic work has deepened my understanding of the subconscious mind and its incredible influence on our lives. This book has taught me techniques to harness the power of my subconscious to achieve success and overcome challenges.
“Feeling is the Secret” by Neville Goddard:

Neville Goddard’s teachings on the importance of emotions in manifesting desires have been a game-changer. His philosophy that feeling is the key to creating our desired reality has helped me cultivate a positive and focused mindset.
“The Psychology of Money” by Morgan Housel:

Morgan Housel’s exploration of the psychological aspects of money management has provided valuable insights into financial decision-making. This book has helped me develop a more balanced and thoughtful approach to handling finances in both my personal life and business.
“Abundance” by Deepak Chopra:

Deepak Chopra’s teachings on the principles of abundance and prosperity have been incredibly inspiring. His holistic approach to wealth, which includes spiritual, emotional, and physical aspects, has encouraged me to seek a well-rounded and fulfilling life.
“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho:

Paulo Coelho’s novel is a timeless tale about following one’s dreams and listening to one’s heart. The story’s emphasis on perseverance, faith, and the journey of self-discovery resonates deeply with my entrepreneurial journey and reinforces the importance of pursuing one’s true purpose.
These resources have not only influenced my thinking but have also provided practical tools and philosophies that I apply in my daily life and business practices. They have taught me to trust the process, maintain a positive mindset, and continuously strive for growth and abundance in all areas of life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shorturl.at/mjvKG
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kadeemabenjamin?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/dailyvibesclub?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

  https://www.instagram.com/ayosmoove_?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

  https://www.instagram.com/kalexanderphotography_?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Image Credits

Kadeem Alexander