We were lucky to catch up with Theresa Jim recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Theresa , thanks for joining us today. Do you think folks should manage their own social media or hire a professional? What do you do?
Currently I manage my own social media as I want to teach myself and learn how to market my own business. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing and I have always enjoyed being creative while promoting my true self to attract the right clients. If other photographers are interested in pursing this as a career, don’t be afraid to ask questions! If managing your own social media is too much and you don’t enjoy it, outsource for help. Don’t let something small deviate from your passion and success.
Theresa , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Hi there! My name is Theresa Jim and I am the business owner of Theresa Jim Photography. I have always had a passion for photography since I was young. In high school, I was part of the yearbook committee and the historian for clubs who took photos of events. I was that friend/family member that just enjoyed capturing memories for everyone. I knew in my heart it was a way for us to look back and reminisce on the good times.
What made me take the leap and pursue photography as a career was when I became a mother to my daughter, Madison. I remember paying $800 for a maternity shoot and another $500 for Christmas family shoot. The photos turned out incredible and the interaction with the photographers gave me inspiration. I started taking photos of my daughter in the newborn phrase and every stage after (cake smash/birthday, and holidays). I started offering the same services to close friends and I had so much fun doing so. My husband was the one who encouraged me to start my own business.
I started to post on social media to advertise my work. The next thing you know, people started reaching out for me to capture their big milestones. I mainly focus on lifestyle portraits and events. It can range from newborn, maternity, family, and events such as baby shower, engagement, birthdays, and etc. It brings me joy that I am able to give something that they will cherish for years to come. I am so grateful for my clients who have supported me and shown me so much love!
Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?
When I started to pursue photography, I used my existing camera Sony A6100 mirrorless. This was gifted to me back in 2016 from my family. I didn’t go out and spend any money on a brand new camera or lens until I took the time to educate myself on how to shoot in manual. Thank you Youtube! I went out and started to shoot my family and friends until I got comfortable. I did pay for Lightroom ($10 a month) to edit my images.
I market my portfolio and advertise a promotion for Mother’s Day session. I had my first paying customer. I was so excited and grateful for that opportunity. From there, I got referrals and it helped me grow my business with little capital. Once I was getting more bookings, I spent money on a new camera and lens! The money I made went back into my business so I can upscale my work.
How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?
Engagement is key! I mainly advertise myself on Instagram and when I go out to events/sessions, I always bring my business card with me. You never know who you will see and that person might be a potential client in the future.
Connecting with your clients on social media and engaging in their post. I treat all my clients like my friends because I want them to feel comfortable and love their photos! Lastly, compiling an email list from your past clients and sending reminders of my upcoming sessions always helps!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://unscriptedphotographers.com/theresajimphotography
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theresajimphotography/
- Other: Book with me!
Link – https://book.usesession.com/i/sdZLve0ueJ
Image Credits
Credit by Theresa Jim Photography