Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Julander.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am a self taught photographer, meaning no official schooling, though I’ve taken many online courses and workshops over the years to hone my skills and further my craft. I began with photographing my own kids of course as a lot of “mom-ographers” do, but it became so much more when I discovered the art and joy of newborn photography.
My cousin asked me to photograph her brand new baby. I had never done anything like it, but the second I did (the photos were terrible by the way) I was hooked. I new I wanted to learn everything there was to know about this art. I started with every free resource I could find and then slowly began to build through paid mentorships and workshops. Many of these experiences are why I love to teach others today. I offer mentorships and workshops now too!
I have always loved art and creation and learning and have a “toxic trait” of going all in on anything that sparks my interest. So over 12 years later I have built a full in home studio and do this as a full time business that I love!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Oh goodness no. Anything worth doing has bumps and bruises, but that is how you learn and grow. For almost 5 years I scraped by not knowing how to run a business or be profitable. I just knew I loved what I was doing and was fueled by the art.
The day my accountant and I sat down and she said to me, “Emily you do know you are only making about $5/hour right?” was the day I changed the way I was doing business. I then put everything I had into learning the business half of what I have built. The art part came naturally, the business part not so much (still doesn’t). I still don’t love the marketing and sales part of my job, but it’s a necessary evil that I chose to master. There are still ups and downs and I am always learning, but challenges are a part of life and I’m here for it. Bring it on!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My heart and soul belong to newborn photography. Who wouldn’t want to snuggle newborn babies for a living! In truth, I do love a good snuggle, but I allow that to be my assistants’ job. I focus on molding those sweet little angles into beautiful pieces of art that parents will treasure for life! My side of things is more technical and artistic while my fabulous assistants get to do the snuggling and safety!
I think what sets me apart, aside from the specialty itself, is my artistic vision and the editing that comes after the photo magic is made. Unlike most photographers, the editing is my favorite part. I get to take something that I created and push it to perfection. I get to create artwork out of each family’s newest treasure and make the magic of the newborn stage last forever! I love to capture such a precious fleeting moment for each family I work with!
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I have definitely had some good and back luck along the way. While I believe luck plays a part in business for sure, I also believe that you can make your own luck by working hard and paying attention.
I do appreciate the fabulous clients I have had over the years that have come back time and time again and shared my information with their own friends and family. I wouldn’t be where I am without good referrals and repeat clients.
Pricing:
- I customize every package to my client’s needs.
- I provide anything from digital images to custom art pieces.
- Most clients spend between $800-$3000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.emilyjulanderphotography.com
- Instagram: @em.j.photography
- Facebook: @emilyjulanderphotography
