By Lisa Kain
Special moments, time frozen, sharing memories, beauty captured, Love.
Amanda Berube, Navy wife, mother and professional photographer, is inspired by the things which make her soul sing; her ability to see the beauty in everyday life make her an amazing, highly coveted and requested photographer.
“What I like about photographs is that they capture a moment that’s gone forever, impossible to reproduce,” she says of her craft.
Her photographs have been featured on HuffPost, Denim+Grace Magazine, and she is a Share Magazine Photo Contest Top 10 winner in the Engagement Category.
She shoots beauty, destination, engagements, personal and weddings, Amanda’s eye for all things gorgeous speaks volumes through her images.
We wanted to take a moment to learn a bit more about Amanda’s journey.
1. When did you first pick up a camera? What kind was it?
"I first picked up a camera in high school. It was an old film camera and we had to use it, then develop our own images in a dark room. It was pretty awesome."
2. Is this your first business? If not, what were the others and what happened to them?
"This is my first and only business. It's like my little baby!"
3. How did you finance your business and what was the process like?
"I never really financed my business. I was fortunate enough to have had money from working and saving to start my photography venture. Once I started charging for sessions, I would save, pay myself and "pay" the business."
4. As a military spouse, what have been some of the challenges of running the business, while living the military lifestyle? How has being an entrepreneur affected your family life?
"Juggling a work schedule with a family and a husband with a military schedule has been a little challenging. I have figured it out for the most part but sometimes little TDYs and field exercises will throw me off. Luckily I make my own schedule so I can normally adjust well."
5. What three pieces of advice would you offer entrepreneurs starting out today?
"Word of mouth is your best friend. Do not compare yourself to anyone else. Continue to educate yourself and grow!"
6. What has been your most effective marketing tactic or technique?
"Social media, hands down! Facebook, Instagram, Google+; I love them all!"
7. What are the most crucial things you have done to grow your business?
"I have made investments in my company when I could and I have continued to grow. Learning and progressing."
8. Who has been your greatest inspiration?
"Rachel Nolan of Hello Gorgeous Photography. She is a fellow military spouse and professional wedding photographer as well. She is a kind- hearted business woman with talent for years. Rachel's skills, talent, business practices and heart are amazing and I’ve learned a great deal from her. I’m honored to call her a mentor and a friend."
9. In one word, characterize your life as an entrepreneur?
"Adventurous!"
10. Who are your customers? Describe your potential customer?
"My clients are trendy, organic and real. They are whimsical and genuine. Most of all, they are in love!"
11. What motivates you?
"Happy clients! When clients message me after they've gotten their images. I love making them feel gorgeous and beautiful."
12. To what do you most attribute your success? What would you say are the five key elements for starting and running a successful business?
"Happy Clients. Love for your craft. Running a legitimate business. Knowing your audience. Thinking outside of the box."
Visit http://amandaberube.com for booking details and to view her portfolio. “Like” her on Facebook to see more beauty and to follow her adventures in photography:
https://www.facebook.com/amandaberubephotography
Twitter:@amandaberube
Instagram:@amandaberubephoto
