We recently connected with Natalie Shell and have shared our conversation below.

Natalie, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Alright, so we’d love to hear about how you got your first client or customer. What’s the story?

My first non-friend client contacted me through Facebook messenger. To get the attention of potential clients I sent mass text messages to my friends and family letting them know that I was starting a photography business to build up a portfolio. I had a pregnant friend and once the baby was born she called me to photograph her little one. I did this shoot for free and viewed it as a marketing expense. I posted images from this session and used some images in a paid Facebook ad. I had never run an ad before and I didn’t know what to say on the ad, but it got some attention. My first month I booked 7 appointments from that ad and I was so pleased with myself.

Natalie, 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 am a newborn, maternity,and family photographer based out of Atlanta, Ga. I offer in-home services prioritizing convenience for my clients. My sessions are all inclusive. I’ve been in the photography business for 10 years. I’ve worked in different photography related jobs in almost every position. I started my own photography business using the knowledge I gained from these jobs when I lost my car and it was looking like I wouldn’t be able to go to my photography studio job anymore. I had to quit that job and I struggled to find a job closer by. So, I put out an ad and starting shooting sessions with borrowed equipment and a rental car.

Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?

I funded my business with income from my previous job. I had very little when I started. I saved money from two checks to buy a camera and I borrowed a few items to get started. Once I got the first 5 customers I was able to start putting more and more into the business. I had a higher marketing budget and purchased outfits, props, and lights.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I hit a slow patch the beginning of last year. The appointments weren’t coming in, I had already quit my job and I was almost broke. I went without appointments for 3 months as bills continued to pile up. I continued advertising and putting myself out there until the appointments came. All the appointments came at once it was almost overwhelming,but I was glad that all my hard work was paying off

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nataliejanephotos.com

Image Credits

Jerry Walker
Natalie Shell