We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Megan Koenig. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Megan below.

Megan, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to go back in time and hear the story of how you came up with the name of your brand?

I created the name of my brand after my two daughters. My children are the biggest reason I started photography, and they are the very reason I work hard each and everyday to make my dream job become a reality. My oldest daughters middle name is Marie and my youngest daughters middle name is Dale. I have actually been told a few times by clients that they originally thought they would be meeting a guy to take their photos, and then they get me! My youngest daughter was named after my dad, which is named Dale- so I hope that helps everyone with the name of my brand. I have evolved so much over the years and I am thrilled to hear strangers talk about ” Dale Marie Studio “, it truly makes me feel so proud!

Megan, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I previously worked in healthcare, with most of my years being spent in long term care facilities taking care of elders. Although, I loved my job and working in healthcare, with covid came long stressful hours at work. I decided it was time to find a hobby, which is when I went out and bought my first used camera! Boy, was it an older camera and not up to “professional” standard by any means. I used if for a few months, played around with it. I planned a few photoshoots with my kiddos, which make the best models! I loved planning fun photoshoots with them, so I decided to start planning “mini” themed sessions for other families! Once I did that, the rest was honestly history. Within a years time of offering minis, then getting into boudoir, my clientele just kept growing. Between being a mom to two, working a job, and doing photography on the side, it was time I took the leap! I put in my notice, and started doing photography full time. I seriously never looked back. This “job” is a dream job to me. When I am messaging clients back, going to sessions, editing, etc., it does not feel like work! It also allows me to work a solid 40-50 hour week, but I am home for about 25 of those hours with my children. Not only is this my dream job, but it allows me to spend so much more time with my kids, creating more memories! My clients are amazing and I am so grateful they continue to come back making this my reality. I am so proud of everything I have created- Stunning photos with the most precious families, helping woman feel beautiful and confident in their own skin, my beautiful studio that I have poured my heart into, and so much more. If you are thinking about giving up on your dreams, don’t. It is possible to achieve anything you put your mind too!

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

I have always shared sneaks on facebook and encourage my clients to share them! This allows for their family and friends to not only see my work, but if they see their family and or friend is booking with me they should too! Between clients sharing my work and word of mouth I steadily continue to build my clientele. I also always strive to make sure each and every client has a good experience, that is what keeps them coming back! Families will want several different types of sessions depending on their current smile. It could be anything from family, newborn, maternity, wedding, cake smash, boudoir even! One good experience could mean capturing all the milestones for one family!

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

I do keep in touch with several clients. I love being personable and building relationships. Several of my clients have now become friends, and I would not have it any other way! I also love getting to know all of the kids, remembering names, learning what they like. In my experience, learning who the kid is and being able to have a conversation with them will allow them to feel more comfortable. Plus, I love kids! Hanging out with kids and learning who they are, is very fun!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.dalemariestudio.com
• Instagram: dalemariestudio
• Facebook: Dale Marie Studio

Image Credits
Megan Koenig at Dale Marie Studio