Today we’d like to introduce you to Traci Schwomeyer.
Hi Traci, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Company Background / History: Traci Schwomeyer & Metroplex Headshots As long as I can remember, I have been an image-maker. I am fascinated with how the proper lighting and angle can enhance a photograph and how that photograph can capture an important moment in time. I fell in love with the fine art of photography during my high school art classes, and my interest for this medium kept growing and growing.
I went to Middle Tennessee State University and majored in Communications. Early on, I worked in sales and marketing in a few corporate positions, but never really felt fulfilled and often felt like I was missing out on leadership opportunities. This side of the corporate world was suffocating me, and as a result, I began working for a trade magazine in the farming and trucking industry. I learned so much on the fly about print media and the importance of branding.
I knew entering the entrepreneurial world would be challenging, but I also knew that I would love being my own boss. Becoming a business owner was scary at first but also empowering, and if I could be a stay-at-home mom who was able to contribute to my family’s income, then I was ready for the challenge. I experimented with a smattering of photo shoots for families and did a few weddings after my baby girl was born from 2007 – 2018. During the early stages of my business development, it became apparent that the best ROI was with corporate clients and interestingly, I was able to carve a niche by providing professional headshots. First, I created packages for executives in corporate settings, then I opened my own studio in 2019 and called it Metroplex Headshots. My business grew exponentially. I loved the networking aspects of growing my brand, and I truly enjoy working with so many interesting professionals. Day after day, I captured confidence and approachability, helping people exhibit their best selves on a digital platform. Even more, than producing an impressive headshot for someone, I love that I provide opportunities for my clients to feel comfortable in front of a camera, and for some, they finally get the chance to own a photo of themselves that they are proud to show others.
Today, I have plans to duplicate this successful business model and to help stay-at-home moms along with any motivated businesswomen who are interested in opening up a Metroplex Headshots photography studio in their own hometown.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Anyone who now owns a camera is a “professional photographer.” Separating myself from the “natural light” family photographer who does weddings, headshots, babies, brides, bluebonnets, real estate… took a minute. Professionals who want a headshot that stands out call me because that is all I do. If you want to do something really well, focus on it, not being a buffet of photographer.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Since the company’s founding, Metroplex Headshots has been recognized with the following awards and recognition:
• Southlake Style Readers’ Choice Award Winner, 2020, 2021, 2022 & 2023, and Southlake Style Women in Business feature.
• 76092 Magazines Reader’s Choice Winner 2023
Metroplex Headshots provides high-quality photographic services on location and at the company’s headquarters in Southlake, Texas. In addition to creating professional headshots, Metroplex also provides team composites, as well as photography for large groups. We can set up for large corporate events and deliver on-site. Metroplex serves the greater region of Dallas and Fort Worth with an additional team member providing services in Oklahoma City.
At Metroplex Headshots, my goal is to create a relaxed, fun, and professional environment so every client is comfortable. This helps bring out each person’s unique personality and style, resulting in the perfect headshot!
We don’t photograph babies, brides, or bluebonnets; just business! You wouldn’t go to a podiatrist for back pain, so we tell folks, “Don’t go to a family photographer for your professional headshot!”
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you.
“Luck occurs when Preparation meets Opportunity” Vince Lombardi
I made sure when big opportunities come my way, I know what I am doing, and I can provide an extraordinary experience for the client.
Not many photographers can set up on location and shoot 150 headshots by lunchtime, and do them well. I found a niche and ran with it!
Pricing:
- $300 for studio session
- $100 per image / retouched
- $800-$1600 on location
- Large group request quote (150+)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.MetroplexHeadshots.com
- Instagram: Metroplex Headshots
- Facebook: Metroplex Headshots
Image Credits
Metroplex Headshots
