Happy New Year! and a few lessons learned

 Hello!

Happy New Year!

Well, it has been an interesting year to say the least.  The good news is, SAS Photography has survived it's first year of full time business.  It has not always been easy.

So, what have I learned?  What can I pass on to others?

1. Don't start a small business in a pandemic year.  I would like to think no one could have predicted the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) would have struck.  The resulting lockdown, forced business closure, and fear / trepidation of potential clients has been devastating.

2. Timing is everything!  If you wait until you think the time is right, it is too late.  Plan for at least one month prior to when you think people will want your service.

3. Marketing and advertising is harder than you can believe.  Nothing in college will prepare you for what you need to do, when you need to do it, who you need to target, where you need to target clients.  Why was easier due to people wanting to have photographic documentation of family, friends, and homes, before they were gone.

4. Don't be afraid to ask for help.  I owe a great deal of gratitude to the SBA, Merrimack Valley SCORE, my family, past clients, and friends.

5. You don't know it all...or even close to it.  Keep learning.  Keep practicing.

6. Try new things.  For the first time, I entered the Professional Photographers of America International Print Competition.  I entered four images.  One of them not only passed the first round (received a Merit) but unanimously passed the second round and will be included in the prestigious Loan Collection!

So long (and thanks for all the fish) 2020.

I plan to try some new ideas in 2021.  In the mean time, let's get together for portraits (including you favorite pet), headshots, real estate and architecture, and artistic collaborations.

Scott


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