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

Taylor , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s start with what makes profitability in your industry a challenge – what would you say is the biggest challenge?

This year I learned (and recognized) so much about mindset and its hinderance to success and creating a profitable business. Social media portrays success of many competitors and friends, thus creating the illusion that everyone is more successful than us. Sometimes that really puts others down rather than inspiring them. They often think that they don’t have what it takes, they aren’t as good/ talented or experienced. Don’t get me started on pricing yourself!! It’s all connected to self worth. Change your mind, change your life.

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.

I feel unique in that I was a studio arts major in college also studying the music industry. I was the only person studying in London with all the music industry kids that was a painter and photographer. Part of me felt why am I here? I don’t fit in. But then it inspired me to go on to create 9 to 5 magazine which is what I’ve become known for in my community in Charleston, SC.

After Covid and parting ways with a business that ultimately brought joy but no money, I knew I still wanted to be part of community – but in a fresh way. Sharing what I learned from starting a publication, running and coordinating events, sales, social media, web design and more, I wanted to merge my art with my passion – encouraging artists and entrepreneurs to do what they love. And make money at it.

Presently, I am working on a coaching part to my photo services for brands so I can help companies put the images to use. This includes elements of SEO and social media / advertising strategies. Investing in photography for your biz is crucial, and it’s even more crucial to know what to do with them and how to communicate them with your customers/ clients.

I am really proud and excited to be this two part package deal so I can blend my passions and share all that I can give. I think being your own boss is the ultimate way to freedom and living your dreams. I feel so lucky to be able to help others do it.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

For a long time while I was running 9 to 5 magazine, I worked part time in food and bev and did some photo assist jobs to help pay the bills. Investing in a coach led me to actually realize the magazine was never going to bring me real money to support a life I needed. And the investing in Jai Long’s Business Map course last year changed my whole outlook on business and sales and how much we actually hold ourselves back. I scaled it up by changing my prices to be something that could truly support me and was sure to add more value to my packages and services than what other photographers are doing in my area. Investing in education and being part of a community was a game changer for me going full time this year. And I became a mom!!!

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

No matter what anyone thinks – even if one photographers work is slightly stronger than yours – if you give them a great experience and make them feel important, listened to, and cared for – they will 100% refer you, book you again, and hype you up to others just by being yourself! So have fun!!!

Contact Info:

• Website: Taylorlczerwinski.com
• Instagram: @taylorleeczer

Image Credits
Madison Krupp Photography