Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharonda and Rob Collins.
Sharonda and Rob, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Hi, my name is Sharonda Collins. I am the owner/creator of Painted Lens Studio, located in Downtown Dallas along with my husband, Rob Collins. We are originally from Texarkana, Arkansas where we met as teenagers. After graduating High School, we both moved to Dallas, TX. Since living in Dallas, we have invested in various businesses. We invested in real estate, owned a Barbershop for ten years, we also owned and operated a local sports bar.
In early 2019 we were in search of a new investment. We wanted to invest in something fun and something we loved. Our favorite hobby is Travel Photography. We travel to different countries and capture countless memories through photography. My love for capturing memories was the inspiration for opening the studio. I brought the idea and business plan to my husband about creating a photography studio, space where creatives from all over can go to express their creativity through video and/or photography, dance, etc. Rob loved the idea of a Creative Studio and that’s how Painted Lens Studio was born.
My husband is a visual artist and very much creative. He helped me build the entire studio. He painted all the backdrop walls. It was just us two every night painting, creating, and building. We both worked tirelessly to create a unique space everyone would love. We turned a space that was originally a boring office into really Creative Studio. My husband supported my vision completely. He believed in me, he trusted me on this project and that means everything to me! After many late nights and early mornings, we opened Painted Lens Studio in October 2019. Since we’ve opened, DFW Photographers and creatives from all over have shown us so much Love and Support.
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 definitely had a few challenges along the way. One of the biggest challenges is juggling mommy duties and business duties. I have two sons, ages 15 and 9. They both are very active in school and sports. It can get a bit stressful starting a business while also attending all School functions, Sports games and practices. I’ve learned that there will always be challenges and obstacles when starting a new business. My number of support systems is my husband. We make a great team in business but more importantly, in life. Team Work Definitely makes the dream work!
Painted Lens Studio – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Painted Lens Studio is a 1400 sq/ft natural light creative studio. This creative space is available for Hourly or Daily rental. The studio features a King Size Hanging bed, High Ceilings, a White Piano, multiple backdrops, and lots of fun props and furniture. The studio is utilized by Photographers, Videographers, Entrepreneurs, Content Creators, etc. Clients rent our studio hourly for photo sessions to celebrate Birthdays, Anniversaries, Holidays, Professional Branding, etc. Our studio has been featured in a number of music videos. David and Tamela Mann shot their music video “UPS & Downs” in the studio. Painted Lens has also been featured in a number of published magazine photos! Painted Lens can also be used for small events, workshops, and pop-up shops. This business is so fun. It really doesn’t feel like work. It’s so fulfilling to see how much everyone loves our space! The best part about the business is being able to meet so many talented local creatives.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Honestly I don’t think luck had a lot to do with where I am today. Rob and I have worked hard since we were teenagers. We’ve made a lot of smart decisions within the 22 years we’ve been together. Consistency, Focus and Determination are very important factors when striving for goals. As a couple, we have prayed, manifested and worked our butts off not only for the success in businesses; but also for the success in our family life. There were a lot of sacrifices we made along the way, but it has definitely been worth it. God has truly blessed us and we’re grateful for his blessings!
Pricing:
- 2 hour Rental Special $95
- 8hour Pro Rental Package $250
- 1 hour Rental $75
Contact Info:
- Address: 501 Elm St Ste 700
Dallas, TX - Website: www.paintedlensstudio.com
- Phone: 817-760-9606
- Email: paintedlensstudio@gmail.com
- Instagram: @Painted_Lens_Studio
- Facebook: Painted Lens Studio Rental
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