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As a solopreneur, I find it critical to surround myself with like-minded photographers and other small business owners who support one another in our industry. I have been fortunate enough to befriend some AMAZING professionals who not only advocate for women in our profession but are also a great support system for me personally (you can check out all of their stories HERE).
This week I had the honor of speaking with Susan Willis, a Certified Professional Photographer based in Murphysboro, Illinois. Her focus centers mainly on high school seniors, families, glamour, and professional branding.
Susan has been one of the most inspirational and supportive friends and mentors to me along my photography journey. She is smart, savvy, gregarious, works incredibly hard, and is always there with an encouraging word. She naturally draws people in with her outgoing and caring personality. We bounce topics off of one another, brainstorm crazy ideas, meet for accountability sessions, plan creative shootouts, and travel the United States together in search of the very best photography education.
She is not only one of the dearest friends and an amazing photographer, but also an incredible advocate for women in front of AND behind the camera. Read on to learn more about Susan’s career and approach to being a woman in business.
Q: What prompted you to launch your own photography business?
A: It’s a story I should tell more often. As a breast cancer survivor, I realize better than most how fleeting the moments are with our families. In 2006, I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. That means it had already traveled to other parts of my body. The hair loss, weight gain, multiple surgeries, steroids, on top of the chemo and radiation really took a toll on my body: physically and emotionally. I felt ugly, diseased, and embarrased at how I looked. I avoided the camera like the plague. Looking back, I wish I had documented more of that part of my story. It’s part of me and who I am today. That’s why I started my photography business: to tell each person’s story through pictures, especially women. Women fear the camera. They are embarrased or self-conscious about the way they look. Everyone has areas of their body that they are self-conscious about: nose, hair, weight, scars. The list is endless. I have a real empathy for how others feel self-conscious about their looks, because I’ve been in their shoes. However, without exception, I believe every woman is beautiful and that every woman deserves a beautiful portrait of herself and her family.
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Q: Some mornings it’s tough to get motivated (especially when it’s only YOU in your office)! Do you follow a certain morning routine or daily schedule to maximize productivity and well-being?
A: Yes! Every morning, okay, let’s be honest here. Not every single morning every day of the year; but, for the most part I start each day drinking water, in prayer and meditation, exercising, and journaling. Starting each day fueled physically and spiritually helps keep me productive and focused throughout the day.
Q: Running a business completely on your own is NOT an easy task. What is the biggest challenge for you as a solopreneur?
A: Being a workforce of one! You are responsible for handling ALL of the business operations. Being a solopreneur takes long hours of building a portfolio, a client base, and sustainable relationships. Some days it’s difficult to stay motivated. Finding that balance between working on your business and working in your business is challenging.
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Q: I completely agree! I often find that working ON our business is the most time-consuming part of the workday. Because you’re flying solo, how do you find the resources you need to run a business? Do you have any mentors or coaches? Recommended books or inspirational podcasts? If so, tell us about that.
A: I have both a mentor and a coach, in- and outside the photography industry. These have changed over time as my business grew and my needs became different. I also have an accountability partner. We brainstorm, plan, commiserate, and cheer each other on. Support from the right people can push you further than you ever imagined. Books? There are so many great business books! Here are a few of my favorites:
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Q: Having been in business for more than 8 years, what tips do you have for other women who would like to start their own businesses? It’s not simply creating a Facebook Business page and hanging out a shingle, right?
A: Market research. Business plan. Processes. Price for where you want to be in five years. I recommend enlisting the aid of a Small Business Development Center or Incubator to help in this process or a good business coach.
Q: I know that you spend time in networking groups. Tell me a little bit about them and how they have helped you grow as a business.
A: I started realizing all of the hard work that it took to grow a business and this made me feel alone at times. What I didn’t realize was that I actually wasn’t alone in what I was feeling. There was a whole community of solopreneures around me, and they were experiencing similar feelings.
In 2016, I joined BNI (Business Network International) and found support and advice from other business owners in my area. In those weekly meetings, I found opportunities for business education, and personal and professional growth. It actually gave me the motivation and confidence to speak publicly and allowed me to meet amazing people in the process. I’m also an active member of our local Chamber of Commerce. This has opened doors for building relationships that would not have been afforded to me otherwise.
Q: Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me about your business journey. Obviously, I’m a big fan of you and your work! Where can we find you on the internet to learn more?
A: Website: susanwillisphotography.com
Facebook: Susan Willis Photography
Instagram: swillisphoto
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