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

Renecha, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you think folks should manage their own social media or hire a professional? What do you do?

I feel it depends on what stage you are in business. I definitely think in the beginning managing your own social media is necessary and budget friendly. As we evolve into the digital age of things, learning Social Media Marketing skills are a must if you plan to go into business for yourself. As entrepreneurs in the digital age we have to learn how to grow our communities online because that’s where mostly everybody is. I’ve been managing my own social media platforms for awhile now and at this time it doesn’t make sense for me to pay someone to manage them for me. Although I have thought about it because sometimes I have my moments where I don’t post as much as I should on social media. I try to push myself most of the time to do everything I can do myself until it makes sense to transfer the responsibility. As a business owner you have to accept the responsibility of several roles. I think people should at least give content creation and managing their own social media accounts a try. Content is very important and people want to follow your story.

Social media is just the key to things you want people to actually experience. It is necessary in this time we’re in and learning the matrix of it all while telling your story. I do think people should try managing their social media on their own first until they feel the need in hiring someone else.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

My name is Renecha and I am a photographer from Dayton, Ohio. I have always loved photography and art growing up. I got my very first camera for Christmas one year, my parents bought it and ever since then I haven’t been able to put a camera down. When I was in college, I took a beginner’s film photography course and loved it! I enjoyed working in the darkroom and developing my film. Once the semester ended, I changed my major from Communications to Fine Arts. I then graduated from Wright State University in 2016 with a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts with a focus in Photography. I started my business Behind The Lens With Renee back in 2017, and it has been a blessing ever since. My business name Renee came from my middle name. I love being creative and bringing my client’s visions to life. The type of photography I mainly do is maternity, seniors, family, special events and branding photography.

A few things that set me apart from others; my love for the craft, my educational background in learning the craft, and my ability to make people feel at ease. Often times I had clients say ‘This is my first professional photoshoot, I’m nervous, I don’t know how to pose, I don’t know what to do, etc’ and I simply say “No worries, I got you!” I always take the time to make sure everyone feels comfortable and I personalize each shoot.

I am most proud of the feedback and reactions I’ve received about my work. Knowing that I put a smile on someone’s face or went beyond someone’s expectations is what I thrive on to keep going. I’m always learning and growing so the main thing I want future clients to know is they can be honest with me. I want them to be satisfied with their photos and I am willing to do the work to make sure they are.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Customer service is very important and some people don’t think it is when it comes to their businesses. People fail to realize it doesn’t matter how good your product is, at the end of the day, if you don’t provide customer service well your business will suffer. We all have our down moments in the business industry but it is important to stay mindful and considerate to others.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

Word of mouth has been one of the biggest forms of marketing for my business. Besides seeing what I post on social media platforms, my clients come to me through referrals from past clients. I treat everyone with the same love, respect and patience. I believe that is why God continues to bless my business and my clientele growth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.btlwithrenee.com/
• Instagram: @renechadudley
• Facebook: Behind The Lens With Renee

Image Credits
Behind The Lens With Renee