Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Gustafson.
Kristen, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My name is Kristen Gustafson, and I am the owner of Poshlings Photography. In 2014, I opened up an online children’s boutique called “Poshlings Boutique.” Through the process of photographing my products, I discovered my love for photography. In 2015, I opened Poshlings Photography and began to grow my small business.
Great, 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?
Nothing worth having comes easy, right? One of my biggest challenges has been relocating. Due to my husband’s job, I have had to relocate every year for the first four years of my business. This is huge, considering most small businesses take years to become successful, and here I was picking up and starting all over every year. Each move brought me a new target market, which would affect the structure of my business, which then affects marketing efforts, etc.. In 2019, I opened up a studio in my hometown of Lubbock, TX, while continuing to travel back to Dallas/Fort Worth to serve my clients. This year will be my second year in my studio and have found that this stability has helped to grow my business exponentially.
Another struggle that I think is important for anyone considering opening up their own photography business is the ability to wear many hats! A fraction of my time is spent shooting and editing. Being able to balance marketing, policies, contracts, legalities, SEO, social media, and communication between all clients and new inquires is extremely crucial in the success of the business. The most significant piece of advice I believe I can give would be never to be content. Always seek more. More information, more knowledge, more skill. Never stop growing.
Poshlings Photography – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Newborn & maternity photography is my passion and the very heart of my business. I capture moms between 30-36 weeks gestation and provide couture gowns from all over the world for a fine art finish. Clients can choose between an outdoor or studio setting or my personal favorite—a warm milk bath with beautiful fresh flowers. I ideally capture newborns in their first 14 days of life, as they change so quickly and are most sleepy during this time. I have a timeless aesthetic while tailoring the session to fit each family’s personality. I also love to capture milestones, families, and special holidays but am mostly known for my maternity & newborn art.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
I have recently won 1st place in a few local awards and placed 2nd in the newborn category of an international photography competition. I have also been named Lubbock’s Best Baby Photographer 2020 by bestbabyphotographer.com. While I’m so honored and proud of these accomplishments, Im most thankful for my wonderful clients in Lubbock and Dallas/Fort Worth. Without you, I wouldn’t have a story to tell.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1413 Texas Ave Suite A, Lubbock, TX 79401
- Website: www.poshlingsphotography.com
- Phone: 2149529953
- Email: www.poshlingsphotography.com
- Instagram: @poshlingsphotography
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/poshlingsphotography
- Other: follow us on TikTok @poshlingsphotography
Image Credit:
MSM Portraits
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