April’s One Successful Mama Profile: Photographer Kate Cole
“It has given me something where people know me for me…I get rejuvenated, which makes me a better wife and mother.”—Kate Cole
This month, I’m profiling Kate Cole, the creative and successful mama behind “Captured Moments by Kate C,” a portrait photography company based in Jessup, Maryland. Kate is mama to a 14-year-old stepdaughter, an 8-year-old son, and a 5-year-old daughter, and is married to an Army veteran. As a photographer, she specializes in capturing the essence of a family’s dynamic. “I love my business because it gives me a chance to capture moments for my clients that could have been forgotten otherwise,” she says. “I am helping them create a legacy.”
ONE COMMITTED MAMA PRESENTS: KATE COLE,
CAPTURED MOMENTS BY KATE C
How long ago did you start your business? What led you to start it?
I started it “by accident” the year my daughter was born (2010). A friend of mine who knew my background in photography asked me to take her family pictures. People saw her pictures and started booking me. It hasn’t stopped since!
What types of services/products do you offer?
I offer on-site photography sessions. I have been to people’s homes to provide lifestyle-type shoots, and I have also been hiking with a family and hanging from a tree to get the shot!
Describe your first few months getting started. What were your major challenges?
The first few months were weird, because like I said, I never set out to start a business! The hardest was coming up with a price list, something I still struggle with.
What has surprised you the most about yourself when it comes to running your own business?
That I need to not take things so personally. Over the years I have had a few unsatisfied clients — everyone does — but I still feel horrible!
How has owning your own business benefitted you as a mother and/or wife?
It has given me something where people know me for me, not so and so’s mom or wife. It gets me out of the house doing something I love. I get rejuvenated, which makes me a better wife and mother.
What do you enjoy the most about owning your own business?
That I set the hours! I can be as busy as I want to be.
What are your goals for the future?
This year, my specific goal is to have more of an online presence. I am in the process of building a website, so I can stop relying on Facebook.
What advice do you have for women who may want to take the leap and own their own businesses?
As I kind of “fell into” owning my own business, I can definitely say talk to other business owners. Things like pricing, getting the proper licensing, et cetera can be very overwhelming. Having someone come along who has been there helps a lot!
Connect with Kate on Facebook or Instagram!
Photos of Kate by CA Photography.
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