We recently connected with Maria Perme and have shared our conversation below.

Maria, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?

There is a formula for success in my opinion that starts with creative thought and exploration which turns into the vision. From there, it’s building the vision from the ground up. How do you do that? Connection to current clients, grass roots marketing, finding your niche and staying focused and centered even in the harder times when you want to give up. It’s reaching out to as many people as you can, both family and friends to ask for help in sharing your artwork and information. Success is consistency, commitment to honing your craft and educating yourself on all aspects of business including how to run a business. Success is being open, going with the flow and not being afraid to make shifts and changes in your craft. It’s learning from and not running from making mistakes. Success is resilience.

Maria, 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?

I got into photography at a young age and became more curious about it while in high school as we learned the art of photography and developing pics. I loved being in a dark room, seeing my pictures come to life as the chemicals, light and water brought my visions to life. I set the camera down until my early 20’s when a friend with an Olympus manual camera agreed to be a model. We’d hit the streets of the city and the metroparks exploring terrain and lighting. I was hooked.

I provide photography services, including portraits, events, lifestyle images, and creative works like fine art for the client that is looking to furnish and transform their home or office with beautiful subjects/scenery from around the world. What sets me apart from other photographers or creatives is my background in wellness, interpersonal communications, and movement which helps me understand clients from an interpersonal level. Those aha and spontaneous moments are captured and conveyed through the lens.

My knowledge of photography comes from reading, shadowing and mentoring from more experienced photographers and being in the field. My approach to photography and the creative process is ‘in the moment’, expressive, and anchored in joy. I strive to bring out the subjects natural beauty and authenticity through lighting, environment, and in the moment captures.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspects of being an artist/creative is autonomy, and being able to chart my own path each day. Being able to set my own pace and rhythm for the day keeps my life in balance. I enjoy meeting new people, getting to know them and creating joyful and beautiful moments for them to remember through visual storytelling.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Hands down, the best source of new clients has been consistent posting of my work on social media, along with word of mouth from current and past clients as well as participating in juried shows and getting my work out into the local community via galleries and established businesses.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.mariapermephotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariapermephotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MariaPermePhotography/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-p-4972b130/

Image Credits
Maria Perme Photography