We were lucky to catch up with Megan Wolf recently and have shared our conversation below.
Megan, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s start with a story that highlights an important way in which your brand diverges from the industry standard.
From the very beginning of my photography journey, I have set out to be a little different than the industry standard in every way. Most prominently, I operate my photography business to honor Christ. I do not intentionally limit my clientele nor enforce a religious viewpoint, but I do bravely show my own journey of faith and experiences on my social media platforms and in my work in order to connect with others around me and put God first. I think other like-minded Small Business owners are sometimes afraid to do this so as to not be “cancelled” or ridiculed which is understandable! It’s definitely true that not everyone appreciates my openness or beliefs and that’s OK. I simply strive for the photos I take to reflect the wonder of God’s creation. You won’t find me taking on any projects that contradict this and I think that is the beauty of diversity in the Small Business world of America – there is someone for everyone!
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?
I first picked up a camera when my first child was born in order to save money in documenting his milestones. I caught the photography bug very quickly and spent the next couple of years learning how to operate a professional camera, find my editing style, and grow in creativity. The process wasn’t very quick as I was a stay-at-home wife and mom and taking care of my kids was (and still is) my most important job. I wasn’t able to spend many hours in the day working towards my dream. But as the kids have grown and I’ve grown in my craft, I’ve noticed a steady increase in the time I’ve been able to devote to photography and as a result, a steady increase in business. I feel blessed to now be in a place where I’m no longer questioning if photography will work out for me. I have to credit my local photography groups on social media and the local photographers I’ve met along the way who have given me pointers, answered my questions, and created a safe space for me to learn. Them as well as my husband who has done nothing but support me every step of the way.
I would say that my brand is unapologetically Christian in nature; I seek to be inclusive and loving towards everyone I meet. My goal is to see Christ in everyone and create photos that embody that. My photos are classic, true to color, and simple in nature to accomplish this goal of reflecting Christ.
Recently, I’ve been specifically looking to serve Catholic couples on their journey to marriage. Any photographer who has ever photographed a Catholic Wedding knows that there are a lot of intricacies and details that can complicate the day and be a challenge for photographers who do not do it often. I noticed a need for photographers who understood the ins and outs of these complex sacrament days. So I want to step into that space and provide a Catholic experience for clients that they feel comfortable and excited about. Not to mention, my husband is learning the trade with me so that we can be a Catholic married couple who serve future Catholic married couples. This past year was our first full season of Catholic weddings together and we definitely feel that it is our calling.
I hope that others can visit my website or my social media outlets and immediately see my passion for my craft and how much I care. I am an open book for my clients and just want them to feel taken care of and special in every way during our working relationship (that I hope then quickly develops into a friendship.) I’m a little silly, an extroverted introvert, and have a big heart. So working with me hopefully feels less like work and more like hanging out with a friend!
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
People have been my greatest resource in the way I’ve managed my business and affected my philosophy in being an entrepreneur. I encourage anyone who is working to create a name for themselves with a small business to check out Nathan Chanski, The Heart University, and Cassidy Lynne for learning invaluable ways to serve clients, build your business, and build a brand (especially in the field of photography.)
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
I am far from where I would like to be with social media – it’s a beast that I think a lot of creatives are scared of since it’s so difficult to gain a foothold and I can completely relate. I have just over 1,500 followers so I can’t speak to this on a large scale, but I think the loyal followers I do have engage with me because I am myself. I try not to be overly stiff and professional because I’m seeking to be genuine and my real self. Followers do not want to connect with a logo or a cover page, they want to connect with YOU. Even if it’s not your personality to be outgoing, showing your face and putting yourself out there opens doors for social media connection so don’t be afraid to make a reel or a post featuring your face and your life so that you can deepen those connections.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://fidelitasphotos.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fidelitasphotos/
- Facebook: https://ms-my.facebook.com/fidelitasphotos/
Image Credits
Fidelitas LLC