We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tara Dunn a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Tara, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a business owner? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job?
Being a business owner comes with the highest of highs and lowest of lows. What determines how you feel would be your mindset toward each situation that comes your way. As an entrepreneur for the last ten years, I have learned that everyone does things differently which can turn out to be our superpower!
Before starting my photography business I was a 5th grade teacher. There were many things I loved about having my own classroom with a new batch of students each year. I had never had thoughts about going out on my own and starting a new career. Having a boss to work for and colleagues to experience life with was great at that time. Never did I think I would leave teaching to then be working completely on my own.
As an entrepreneur; there will be times that feel lonely. Knowing that you aren’t alone comes from connecting to other business owners and entrepreneurs. Whether they are in your field or not, it helps to be able to discuss the highs and lows together. Finding someone that does what you do makes it even better. I’m so grateful to say I have many dear friends that offer similar services to me, we speak weekly and sometimes even daily. It’s a true community over competition, a growth mindset that has given me so many amazing opportunities.
When looking back at my experiences as a school teacher and now as a business owner, I am grateful for what I continue to learn. That may be the best advice I have ever received, keep learning so you keep growing!
Tara, 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?
Tara Dunn Photography started in 2012 when I first started photographing families and second shooting for wedding photographers. My love for photography has been a part of my life as long as I can remember. Starting this business and growing it into what it is has been one of my biggest accomplishments. I transitioned into a full time branding photographer for entrepreneurs and local businesses in Arizona about 6 years ago.
As a branding photographer, my job is all about capturing the essence of your brand and personality through images. From showcasing your products to capturing your unique style, I’m here to bring your vision to life in a visually compelling way.
When it comes to connecting with my clients, it’s not just about snapping photos—it’s about building relationships. I love getting to know each client, understanding their brand story, and working together to create imagery that truly reflects who they are.
Whether it’s through open communication, active listening, or just sharing a laugh during the photo shoot, I strive to make every interaction friendly, enjoyable, and collaborative. By building these connections, I can better understand your goals and deliver results that exceed your expectations.
Along with my photography business, I host monthly Connect Belong group events. This is an open ended invitation to all females who would like to find others to make friendships with, connection as adults can be hard. This is a place that allows for opportunities to find people that you can live life with and support one another.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
Building an audience on social media definitely takes time! I have worked over many years to grow a following and invite businesses to follow along.
Making sure you define your brand vibe—what makes you, you! Then, pick the perfect platforms where your audience hangs out. Once you’re all set up, consistency is key! Post regularly, engage with your followers, and always aim to add value. Oh, and don’t forget those hashtags—they’re like little magic keys to help your content get discovered. Try not to stress if things don’t skyrocket overnight. Building a presence takes time, so enjoy the journey and have fun with it! You’ve got this!
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
The comparison game is strong in any industry. Finding my own way and not comparing myself to others is a daily practice. There are so many things that may make me feel inferior throughout my life as an entrepreneur. I have learned to cheer everyone on and know that my talents/gifts are to be shared. Especially with the fact that there is only one me and I have a light to share!
Contact Info:
- Website: taradunnphotography.com
- Instagram: @taradunnphotography
- Facebook: @tdunnphotography
- Other: Pinterest.com/taradunnphotography
Image Credits
Tara Dunn Photography