Today we’d like to introduce you to Lakin Stearns.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
This little business of mine came on its own time. My husband and I were married in June of 2016, and we moved to a new city. During that transition time, I started working part-time at a local church. I had some extra time on my hands, and I have always loved doing multiple things all at once.
If you are an Enneagram fan, you can probably guess that I am a 7. Anyways, I started my business as a side hustle to the other jobs that I had. Word of mouth was my best friend though, and before long I found myself shooting 15 family mini sessions in one day. It was such a blessing to have something “extra” on the side that I loved so much.
Fast forward almost two years to this past March – my husband and I moved from the Nashville area to DFW. When we moved, I decided to take my business full time as I branched into wedding photography. I had no idea if it would work out, still have that feeling someday, but here we are six months later still going!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I honestly do not think anything can be “smooth” when it comes to business. There is always a better process or system. There is always an extra mile to go. However, I believe that I am very fortunate in the way things have worked out.
My biggest struggle has been building up a client base and trying to stand out in an area that has so many great photographers. I am pleased with the growth that my business has experienced the past 2.5 years, but there is always room for improvement, right?
We’d love to hear more about what you do.
I run a wedding and lifestyle photography business! I started out just shooting families, and I absolutely loved that; however, I was itching to be able to shoot a wedding. I started second shooting for other wedding photographers a while back, and I fell in love with the detail and the relationships. I have always cared for people deeply. I want people to be known and seen.
So, in my business, I always try to pay attention to small details that I know are important to people. Whether it be the relationship that the bride has with her grandmother or the necklace that has been passed down for generations, there is always something significant on a wedding day. I go out of my way to make sure those little things get remembered.
What were you like growing up?
I was the girl who wore a plastic choker 24/7, played kickball with the boys at recess, and planned all the get-to-gethers with my friends. I was the connector, the glue that held everyone together. I never met a stranger, and if I did, I probably introduced myself to them. I loved adventure and anything sports related.
One of my favorite parts of growing up was watching football with my dad every Saturday and Sunday. The best part was watching the boys’ faces when I actually knew what I was talking about when it came to sports. I was also a planner. I would color coordinate my school supplies and organize my Disney movies by favorites.
I have always been very aware of details and order, so I guess it makes sense that I have a profession that requires so much attention to detail.
Pricing:
- I offer credit based wedding packages that start at $2400.
- Family and lifestyle shoots begin at $300.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lakinstearnsphotography.com
- Phone: (865) 809-1209
- Email: lakinstearnsphotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakinstearnsphoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lakinstearnsphotography/
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