We were lucky to catch up with Nicole Blair recently and have shared our conversation below.

Nicole, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today If you’re open to it, can you talk to us about the best (or worst) investment you’ve made. What’s the backstory and the relevant context behind why you made the investment

One of the best investments I’ve made as a business owner has been in education. Over the years, I’ve poured resources into online courses, workshops, and conferences, seeking knowledge and expertise from individuals across the industry. Each of these educational opportunities has provided invaluable insights tailored to my personal needs and business goals. By learning various methods and strategies, I’ve been able to implement changes and adjustments that have propelled my business forward significantly.

The decision to invest in education wasn’t made lightly. I recognized the need to continuously adapt and evolve in an ever-changing landscape, and education seemed like the most effective way to stay ahead of the curve. Whether it was mastering new techniques in marketing, refining my skills in photography, or understanding the latest trends in my industry, each learning experience has contributed to my growth as a business owner.

The payoff has been undeniable. Not only have I seen tangible results in terms of increased revenue and clientele, but I’ve also gained confidence in my abilities and decision-making processes. Moreover, the connections made during these educational endeavors have opened doors to new opportunities and collaborations that I wouldn’t have otherwise encountered.

Of course, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. There have been instances where certain courses or workshops didn’t quite live up to expectations, or where I found myself overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information presented. However, even in these cases, I’ve managed to glean valuable lessons and insights that have ultimately contributed to my growth and development.

In hindsight, I can confidently say that investing in education has been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve made as a business owner. It’s a continual process of learning and improvement, and one that I intend to keep prioritizing as I strive to take my business to new heights.

Nicole, 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’ve always had a passion for photography, starting from the days when my parents would gift me point-and-shoot cameras as a child. Eventually, I graduated to my first DSLR Nikon in high school, much to my dad’s relief, who finally got his camera back from me!

During college, I began taking photography more seriously. I started doing sessions for family friends and even took a photography course that really challenged me to think creatively and see the world from different perspectives.

After graduating from Baldwin Wallace University in 2018 with a degree in public relations and marketing, I embarked on a full-time career with a marketing agency. It was an exciting time, and I was able to utilize my creative thinking in new and innovative ways.

But, as life often does, 2020 threw me a curveball. Amidst planning a wedding, remodeling our first house (in the middle of a pandemic, no less!), and embracing the chaos of newlywed life, I realized something: I missed photography. I missed the thrill of capturing moments and telling stories through my lens.

So, I took a leap of faith. I decided to pursue my passion for photography, and it’s been the most rewarding decision I’ve ever made.

Now, I specialize in providing photography services that not only capture moments but also tell stories. Whether it’s capturing the love and joy of a wedding day or the bond between a family, I strive to create timeless memories that my clients will cherish for years to come.

How did you build your audience on social media?

When I first ventured into the world of Instagram and Facebook, I quickly realized the importance of consistency and engagement.

Instagram became my primary platform, as I understood its dynamics well from my background in marketing. I made a concerted effort to post regularly, sharing not only my work but also behind-the-scenes glimpses into my process and personal life. This helped humanize my brand and fostered a deeper connection with my audience.

Engagement was key. I actively sought out my target audience by engaging with their content, responding to comments, and initiating conversations. This not only helped me grow my following but also allowed me to build meaningful relationships with my audience.

Additionally, I leveraged Facebook groups to expand my reach. By joining relevant groups and participating in discussions, I was able to establish myself as a knowledgeable and trustworthy member of the community. This helped boost my visibility and credibility as a new business.

My biggest advice for those starting to build their social media presence is to prioritize consistency and engagement. Post regularly, but also take the time to interact with your audience. Be genuine, authentic, and personable. And don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and join relevant communities where you can showcase your expertise and connect with like-minded individuals. Building a social media presence takes time and effort, but with dedication and perseverance, you can steadily grow your audience and establish a strong online presence for your brand.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

One of the most defining moments of resilience in my journey as a business owner came during a particularly challenging period: pregnancy and motherhood. Throughout my pregnancy, I battled severe hyperemesis gravidarum, which left me incredibly sick and drained. Despite the physical toll it took on me, I was determined not to let it interfere with my commitment to my clients, especially during the busy holiday season.

I vividly remember pushing through each session, even when I could barely summon the energy to stand. Canceling sessions wasn’t an option for me; my clients relied on me to capture their special moments, particularly for their holiday cards. So, I persevered, drawing upon every ounce of strength and resilience within me to fulfill my obligations.

Photographing my last wedding day at 37.5 weeks pregnant stands out as a particularly challenging moment. The physical demands were immense, but I refused to let my pregnancy dictate my ability to deliver for my clients. It was a test of endurance, both mentally and physically, but I pushed through, fueled by my dedication to my couples.

However, the challenges didn’t end with pregnancy. As a new mother, returning to work just eight weeks postpartum presented its own set of hurdles. Leaving my precious newborn for long days of shooting weddings, often spanning 10-12 hours, weighed heavily on my heart. Coming home to find her already asleep, having missed time with her, was incredibly difficult.

Yet, through it all, I persevered. I leaned on my support system, drew strength from my love for my family, and remained steadfast in my commitment to my clients and my passion for photography. Each obstacle I faced only fueled my determination to succeed, and while the journey may have been challenging, it was also incredibly rewarding.

Looking back, I’m proud of the resilience I exhibited during that period of my life. It taught me the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and prioritizing self-care amidst life’s challenges. And while the road may have been tough, it ultimately led me to where I am today—a stronger, more resilient business owner and mother, capable of conquering whatever obstacles come my way.

Contact Info:

• Website: nicoleb-photography.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/nicolebphotographyllc
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100059037075718