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

Hi Nicole, thanks for joining us today. Can you tell us the backstory behind how you came up with the idea?

My photography business was born out of a series of fortunate and unfortunate events. While I have always loved photography, from Polaroids in the 80’s, to my point and shoot Konica Tomato camera in the 90’s and cellphone cameras in the 2000’s, I never considered pursuing photography seriously. I was a graphic designer and have been playing in Photoshop since 1997. I loved creating digital art and manipulating other people’s images. It wasn’t until 2019 that I began to think differently. Long story short, I was taking a ton of photos with my iPhone and I thought to myself, this is silly— you should get a “real” camera!

I did get a “real” camera but honestly, I was not initially thinking of starting a photography business, I just wanted to nourish a hobby. I began photographing any and everything from architecture, to bugs then ultimately food and beverage. I was constantly looking for ways to not only understand my camera better, but also ways to improve the way my images looked. I figured, I could combine my love for graphic design and new found passion for photography and create some cool images. Shortly after, the world was shut down due to Covid-19. I found myself with more time on my hands to create but limited subject matter. I really poured myself into food and beverage photography because that is what was always available at the time. As I began sharing my work on Instagram my network expanded and the idea of creating a photography business came organically. I began working with clients and continued to learn along the way. There are still moments of self doubt that I think every creator feels at one point or another, but I have found so much joy and fulfillment in finding my voice and my own style in photography.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a NJ native, multi faceted graphic designer turned photographer, who is passionate about creating captivating images and teaching others how to do the same! My main niche in photography is food, beverage and product photography; however I capture a little bit of everything. I love leveraging my graphic design background and creating images that make you stop and wonder how it was created. I love capturing true emotions in portrait sessions. I love helping brands increase sales with clear product imagery. I also love teaching and mentoring new photographers, especially BIPOC women in the industry.

There are many photoshoots I am proud of, but I am most proud of the relationships I have been fortunate to cultivate in this business. I would describe myself as being reliable, detail oriented and professional, while also being fun and easy to work with. My goal is to ensure that translates to all of my clients. Beyond the sense of accomplishment I feel by of earning income doing something I enjoy, I feel truly fulfilled in this business by helping others.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Honestly social media, specifically Instagram has been a great source for obtaining new clients. As much as I am sometimes frustrated by the algorithm and bewildered by what else I can do to increase my engagement– clients are still finding me! I try to share creative projects, behind the scene looks at personal and professional photoshoots and fun content especially leveraging Reels to increase my reach. In addition to my website I think Instagram allows people to see a little more of my personality as well as my thought process when approaching creative photoshoots.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

When I started this business I ate, slept and breathed still life photography. It wasn’t long after starting my business that I realized how impactful video / videography is and how in demand these services are. I had to make a decision, should I stick to still life or pivot to include video creation. I decided to pivot but also decided how I would pivot to be sure I was still focusing on the creative projects that I enjoyed. I’ve learned a lot in a short time and there was definitely a financial investment required but I began offering 1 min short films/reels to clients for their use on social media and their websites and they have been well received. I also began offering stop motion animations as another extension of my graphic design background.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.staynfocus.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/staynfocusimages
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/staynfocusimages
• Other: TikTok: @staynfocusimages eBook: www.nfocuslearning.com

Image Credits
Nicole J. Leverett