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Business Profiles: Business Spotlight
 Slice
of Life Photography
Featured in the Smithsonian's Air & Space magazine last year, professional
photographer, Heather L. Evans, runs her small photography studio with a solid
business sense juxtaposed with an unwavering eye toward creating "photography
that has meaning." We asked Heather to share her business story, and she
graciously agreed:
What services do you offer? I offer a wide range of photography services
including portrait, photo-journalistic, and commercial photography.
When and why did you launch your business? Having recently left the
corporate world to be a stay-at-home mom, I wanted to contribute to my family
financially, yet do something I enjoy and have a flexible schedule. I decided
to take a risk and pursue my passion for photography. In 2001, "Slice of
Life Photography" came into being. Photography provides me with an outlet
for my creativity and allows me to meet fascinating people. On top of that, I
get to be an "instigator of joy" by helping others to preserve their
precious memories.
How many people in your company? At this time, just myself.
Where is your office located? My studio is located in the lower level
of my home.
What is the most challenging aspect of running your business? For
me, with an infant and preschooler at home, the trick is maintaining a balance
between quality of life and work. I love my work! However, it takes a lot of
time to develop the business and my own creativity. I have to make sure that
I am running the business and not letting the business run me!
What is the most rewarding part of running your business? When it comes
to photographing people, it is the act of capturing and preserving moments of
their lives in interesting and beautiful ways. In commercial photography, it
is the challenge of taking something that might normally be considered ordinary
and bringing it to light in a way that shows its beauty and interest, while simultaneously
helping my client advance his or her business. With photography, I get to express
myself creatively and learn and try new things every day. I get to see the world
in a different way each time I look at it. It doesn't get much better than that.
Is there anything you would do differently next time? No because it
has all been a part of my growing process to bring me to where I am now, and
to take me to the next level.
Have you learned any other lessons in your venture you would like to share?
Find a mentor; someone who will encourage you and support you in what you
are doing to reach your goals.
What "words of wisdom" or advice would you like to share? First
of all, define success for yourself as it is different for everyone. Secondly,
have a solid business plan with step-by-step goals that will help you realize
your vision. Third, don't give up! If you need to, adjust your course along the
way but keep your destination in sight. Last, remember the journey is just as
important as the outcome. You will grow through this process and be a better
business person because of it.
What is your vision for the future of your business? I will continue
doing all types of portraiture. This year I am challenging myself to grow creatively
and artistically in three different areas: children & babies, pregnancy bellyshots,
and commercial photography.
What is your educational background? I hold a B.A. in Political Science.
I worked as an apprentice with a talented photographer for several years—which
is where I learned my craft.
What is your employment/business background? I have been around small
business since childhood as both of my parents owned their own businesses. I
have worked in several different types of jobs from social work to retail. My
last position was as a Corporate Trainer in which I traveled and taught management,
customer service, and product seminars.
Is there anyone who has helped or inspired you to launch your own business?
My mentor, Jurgen Rissmann of Mr. J's Photography. He has been an incredible
teacher and a good friend. Because of Jurgen, I had the confidence to go out
on my own. He gave me the skills and the kick-start I needed. He continues to
encourage me and helps me to hone my craft. He has taught me the importance of
growing as a photographer, always seeking new ways to look at the world, people,
light, and to try different photographing tools and techniques. He has also shown
me that importance of mentorship and has inspired me to freely share my craft
and business knowledge with others who are in my trade or just starting out.
Contact Information:
Slice of Life Photography
Spokane , WA
Phone: 509-324-1871 or 509-701-3283
Website: www.sliceoflifephotography.net
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