We were lucky to catch up with Meagan Forbes recently and have shared our conversation below.
Meagan, appreciate you joining us today. Almost all entrepreneurs have had to decide whether to start now or later? There are always pros and cons for waiting and so we’d love to hear what you think about your decision in retrospect. If you could go back in time, would you have started your business sooner, later or at the exact time you started?
If I could go back in time, I would 100% start my full time photography business WAY sooner. I started getting paid (veryyyy little) for my photography maybe 13 years ago, but always kept it as a side hustle. I was constantly told that I would never make a living doing it (the classic starving artist remark). I eventually started to ignored the naysayers, and started offering inexpensive photoshoots to friends and family while working 2-3 jobs to stay afloat. I saved up for better gear, and moved in with my parents to save money – all to indulge in this “hobby” of taking pictures. I eventually built a client base that I would cater to in between shifts as a retail associate/leasing agent/ hostess, and still have some of the same clients that support me all of these years later.
I frequently wish I would have taken myself, my talents and starting a photography business seriously much sooner. I didn’t get serious until about 5 years ago, and took all of the necessary steps to create a legitimate business. I have been full time for almost 3 years. I have noticed that as I have gotten older, and I have drawn my career out, that I am in more of a slow burn phase. I think starting businesses when you are young, and the ideas are fresh is such a great way to energize your business, and push it to the next level! As a 30-something year old I have so many factors that limit me from taking major business risks, like having a husband, a mortgage, family, etc. If you’re in your early 20’s and dreaming of making a jump into owning a business – just do it, you’ve got nothing to lose – and even if you fail you can always bounce back from it and still say that you tried!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
hi, I’m Meagan! I am a photographer based in Wilmington, NC. I take a lifestyle/ documentary approach to photography, leaning into creating real moments to capture. I primarily shoot for brands, families and weddings.
I first started loving photography when I discovered my dad’s vintage 35mm Nikon Fe2. At that point I had no idea how to use it, but still popped some film in and gave it a whirl. The film some how came out, and it was like magic. Taking those photos (likely mirror selfies, or pictures of flowers in my yard) made me feel like I had a purpose, and I quickly enrolled in any photography class that was offered and very quickly excelled.
I am so proud of the approach that I take to photos. My personality translates directly into my approach to a shoot. I am very organized, yet relaxed, and go with the flow, and I think that it is exactly what most people need in the high stress moments of a brand shoot, wedding day, or family session.
Photographs are an irreplaceable, tangible way to hold onto your life’s stories. My approach is authentic and simple, your story leads the session.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
I think that my persistence is really what has helped me grow and maintain my reputation in such a saturated industry. I present my offerings, and stay true to my word and promises. I am quick to respond and quick to present a final gallery. People really love reliability, and that is so important to me and the way that I run my business.
We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.
honestly social media! It is the easiest way for me to keep in touch, and to give a nudge to my clients by simply engaging in their posts and stories. I can’t tell you how many times I have gotten the message “thank you so much for responding, I have been meaning to reach out to you”, etc. Just show up in whatever way feels authentic to you!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://meaganforbes.co
- Instagram: @meaganforbes
Image Credits
meagan forbes photo