Today we’d like to introduce you to Niya Richardson.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I went to an academy high school where I was a participant in the digital media academy (creating video content, movies, videos, journalism, etc.). It wasn’t until after four years of college that I decided I didn’t want to be a chef, psychologist, or a pharmacist… I was all over the place. There was a sale on DSLR cameras and impulsively, I bought one and put it to good use. For about two years, I did free photoshoots to build my portfolio and gain clientele. Honestly didn’t know what I was doing, but I made it work. My editing was not good at all, actually pretty bad and I decided if I’m going to move forward with this I needed to seek guidance.
I started studying, watching videos, reading books, meeting other photographers and picking their brains just trying to learn the ropes. About two years later, I decided to pursue other outlets outside of photography but as I got older, I felt complacent and unhappy trying to figure out what was next. I went through a ton of hardships, and it wasn’t until I moved back home that I decided to get back into the business — and I’ve been learning and thriving ever since. It’s challenging and a ton of hard work and dedication, but I’m happy that everything in my life played out the way it did to get me back to my passion; creating amazing media content!
Has it been a smooth road?
There was definitely struggles along the way. I almost always felt defeated, especially seeing young entrepreneurs that never considered this line of work literally mastering and excelling and killing the game. It was insane! But now, I praise them, I respect them, I learned from them! My main roadblocks were gaining clientele, editing and how to price my services; getting potential clients to like my work (essentially depends on the end result, the editing). And being too costly could run them away. I didn’t want to aim too high but also didn’t want to undervalue my skills. So even though I want to pursue photography full time, it will just have to wait until my brand is flourishing. And it’s very hard to be a creative, work a full-time job and handle other business outside of that!
We’d love to hear more about your business.
SHOTZ! isn’t just a photography session, it’s an experience! I love for my clients to be comfortable at all times! I like to have an introductory meeting (if we have never met) I want to know what song gets you out of your comfort zone, what snacks make you do a happy dance and what joke to tell to get that perfect candid shot. And I believe that’s what sets me apart from others. Most people don’t feel comfortable in front of a camera posing so sometimes they need guidance and that’s where my expertise comes in! I’m most proud that I’ve come so far, working in AUTO mode, to now a manual shooter. I’m proud that I’ve grown from a hobbyist to a skilled photographer. I’ve met/shadowed some amazing professionals in this industry, I’ve even gained additional clientele from those shadows and not only that I’ve done solo weddings (which takes time to get there).
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Houston is a great place to start out — honestly it’s a very saturated and competitive industry since it’s so large BUT, there’s so many young professionals willing to help you out and allow you to learn from them. One thing about this industry is people aren’t selfish with their knowledge, they actually want to help you and watch you grow.
Houston is full of creative talent and helpful photographers. There’s so many styled shoots you can partake in (mock wedding setting with eight photographers, generally a learning experience). Which I think is a great way to move up from a novice photographer.
Pricing:
- SHOTZ! MINI SESSION – $65 (30 MIN)
- SILVER SESSION – $125 (1 HR)
- GOLD SESSION – $175 (1.5 HRS)
- ELOPEMENTS – $500 (3.5 HRS)
- DIAMOND WEDDING – $850 (6 HRS)
- PLATINUM WEDDING – $1250+ (8-10 HRS)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.niyahbelle.photography
- Phone: 281-979-9941
- Email: info@niyahbelle.photography
- Instagram: instagram.com/shotzby.niyahbelle
- Facebook: facebook.com/shotzby.niyahbelle
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