I met Lia last summer when she (bravely) second shot a wedding with me in Downtown Detroit. We instantly struck up a friendship and she’s reached out to me for bits of advice here and there. Which I find flattering because in fact, she has much more experience as she went to school for photography and has been shooting professionally for 10+ years. So thank you, Lia wink wink. But as most photographers do, came to a point where it was time to refine her business, branding, define her shooting style and take Lia Giannotti Photography to the next level. She is truly at a turning point in her business, as she recently bought a home that has a beautiful natural light studio right in her back yard! And it’s on a lake. It’s quite amazing, and I have to admit I kinda wanted to move in. Here’s a pull back of Lia in her space to give you a better sense of how beautiful it really is.
We spent the first of two days shooting in her studio, talking about light and how to best maximize her amazing space. The Northeastern light that pours into her studio is beautiful, yet very demanding. I also had a chance to shoot Lia, and walked her through some of my favorite techniques with posing, connecting with our clients, metering, focus and finding the light. This was great because I was able to experience first hand some of the challenges she faces in her studio and together we worked out a plan on how to use them to our advantage.
We also spent our time mentoring focusing in on her pricing structure and targeting the type of client she wants to shoot. This is key for any photographer really, and I’ve experienced it myself. It’s hard to be an amazing newborn/child/family/birthday/baptism/senior/wedding/boudoir photographer. So instead, together we dug deep and refined who she really is and what she loves to shoot. I already knew what specialties she was amazing at, it was just a matter of convincing her. I’m kidding … sort of. We spent some time on her website, changed a few things around and most importantly, made sure that her best work was at the front instead of hidden amongst the galleries and pages.
We also went through a refresh with her brand and I think you’re going to love what you see in the coming weeks from her website at Lia Giannotti Photography. So head on over and stop by often, some big and lovely changes in store for Lia! Thank you Lia for a really great (and productive) mentoring session. You already know I love shooting with you, and I look forward to staying in touch and watching you grow!
Here’s a few kind words from Lia as well as a little more about who this genuinely sweet and talented photographer she really is.
“My experience working with Mishelle was much more than I could have even anticipated. Having gone through a formal education in fine art with a photography concentration, one would think that is enough. But I want to branch even farther and learn from the best in the industry. Not only is Mishelle an incredibly talented photographer, but also one of the smartest business woman in the business. If you want to be the best, you have to learn from the best. Mishelle embraced me with open arms and her enthusiasm was contagious. I left our meetings feeling inspired and encouraged. It wasn’t just the tips and tricks that she has taught me, but the genuine enthusiasm she shows for myself and my work that really makes me want to dig deep and create an amazing business, amazing brand, and amazing experience. Thanks so much Mishelle for being such an incredible mentor and friend!”
How long have you been in business? Officially since 2010.
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