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

Alright, Raven thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear how you think where to draw the line in terms of asking friends and family to support your business – what’s okay and what’s over the line?

When it comes to asking friends and family to support my business, I believe it’s important to approach it with respect. I’m grateful for their encouragement and word-of-mouth referrals. For me, it’s about sharing my passion and letting them choose to support me in a way that feels authentic for them.
I always tell myself I have to be my biggest cheerleader. I have no idea where i heard that from but it stuck

Raven, 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?

Thank you for having me! My journey into entrepreneurship began in 2019 when I received a promotion at my job. Just a week later, the COVID pandemic hit, and I was furloughed due to not having the proper training for my new position. This was a difficult time, but it also pushed me to look inward and ask for guidance. I prayed and asked God to reveal a gift or talent I could use to support my family, even asking Him to show me three times because, well, I can be a bit stubborn! 😄 Anywho my prayer was answered rather quickly and I got my first camera.

I fell in love with the freedom entrepreneurship offered instantly. In July 2022, my family and I relocated to Dallas, and by October, I booked my first client. The response was so positive that I made the leap to quit my job in December and fully embrace my journey as a photographer.

As a branding photographer based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, I focus on helping entrepreneurs and businesses visually tell their stories in a way that aligns with their brand identity. I offer branding sessions, lifestyle photography, and headshots that help my clients stand out in a crowded market. My goal is to provide more than just images; I create a visual narrative that reflects the essence of their brand and communicates their message clearly.

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

A big pivot in my life came when my family moved to Dallas. I had been juggling a full-time job with photography on the side in my hometown, but in a new city with no client base, it was a little scary putting myself out there. It was extremely uncomfortable, but once I was able to view it as a numbers game, it helped a lot.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

I follow/ add ideal clients in the DFW area genuinely interact with them. I post my work, and pray over my business.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.facebook.com/raearellephotography and my personal Rae Arelle
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raearelle
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raearellephotography

Image Credits

Rae Arelle