We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Omaria McCrae a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Omaria thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So, let’s imagine that you were advising someone who wanted to start something similar to you and they asked you what you would do differently in the startup-process knowing what you know now. How would you respond?

If I were to start over with my entrepreneurial journey, there are several things I’d prioritize and do differently. Firstly, I’d emphasize the importance of networking and establishing a strong personal brand right from the start. Building genuine relationships and cultivating a distinct identity within my niche would have significantly accelerated my progress as an entrepreneur in today’s interconnected world. Actively seeking opportunities to connect with industry peers, thought leaders and potential collaborators would be a priority, both online and offline. Had I focused more on my expertise and thoughtful content creation and engagement, this would have placed me in a position as a seasoned expert within my field. I’d also emphasize defining and refining my niche. While it can be tempting to pursue various opportunities, honing in on a specific market or target audience would have allowed for more targeted marketing efforts and deeper connections with potential clients.

Most importantly, I’d prioritize community-building and surrounding myself with like-minded individuals who share my passion and vision. Entrepreneurship can be a lonely journey at times, but having a supportive network of peers who understand the challenges and triumphs firsthand can provide invaluable guidance, motivation, and inspiration. Whether through industry events, online forums, or mastermind groups, I’d actively seek out opportunities to collaborate, learn from others’ experiences, and leverage my wisdom to navigate the ups and downs of building a business.

Omaria, 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?

Since my youth, I’ve been drawn to creativity, always eager to explore different forms of self-expression. I recall receiving my first camera, a Nikon Coolpix s200, as a Christmas gift. Little did I know then that this simple present would ignite a passion for photography that would influence my future path. During my final year of undergrad, I took a photography elective course, where I was introduced to the art of capturing moments. Under the guidance of a supportive professor, I honed my skills and gained experience developing films in a darkroom. However, as life progressed, I set aside my photography passion to focus on my career.

My professional journey began in child welfare, where I devoted five years to advocating for children and families. This work was fulfilling, tapping into my natural empathy and ability to connect with others. Yet, alongside my career, I felt a persistent urge towards entrepreneurship. After completing my graduate studies, I finally succumbed to the allure of photography. In 2018, I made the decision to invest in my first professional camera. With determination and support from loved ones, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery behind the lens.

Looking back, I realize that my entrepreneurial spirit was nurtured long before I understood its significance. Those Saturday mornings spent helping my aunt with household chores and yard sales unknowingly instilled in me a sense of business acumen. However, delving into entrepreneurship proved to be both challenging and rewarding. Building a small business requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to learn from setbacks. With the unwavering support of my husband and family, I navigated the challenges and celebrated every success along the way.

In 2022, I took a significant leap forward by becoming a full-time wedding photographer. Alongside refining my craft, I prioritized forging meaningful connections and expanding my network within the industry. Reflecting on this journey, I am grateful for every experience that has shaped me and fueled my passion for photography. As I continue to pursue my dreams, I’m excited for the adventures ahead for Omaria McCrae Photography!

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

As a professional wedding and portrait photographer, my primary goal is to capture and preserve the essence of each client’s story timelessly and authentically. I strive to document the emotions, connections, and unique moments that unfold. Beyond simply taking pictures, my mission when capturing weddings is to create a visual narrative that reflects the personalities, values, and significance of a couple’s commitment to each other. Ultimately, I aim to provide an unforgettable and personable experience where clients feel the most comfortable during their sessions. They can look back on their images and cherish the moments from their session.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Honestly, I’m still navigating the intricacies of social media, haha. It’s definitely one of the trickier aspects of my job. While Instagram and Facebook bring in the most clientele for me, staying consistent with them is a challenge. I try my best, but if there’s one piece of advice I’d offer, it’s to be kind to yourself and not hesitate to take breaks from it. I’m not suggesting disappearing for months on end; you don’t want to give the impression of an inactive business. However, finding that balance between personal life and social media is crucial, or it can quickly become overwhelming.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.omariamccrae.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omariamccraephotography
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/omariamccraephotography

Image Credits
Omaria McCrae Photography