Want insider secrets on taking great photos and tips for growing your business? This entrepreneur has some worthwhile advice.
Nothing inspires photographer and entrepreneur Joshua Obermeyer more than the beauty of the world around him and the people living in it. “My whole life, the beauty of earth, nature and human characteristics inspired me to begin capturing as many timeless moments as I could, be it the happiness of a couple recently engaged, the stellar colors of a sunset painted across the sky or the intriguing connection between wildlife and mankind,” he says.
Ten years ago, he decided to turn that passion into a business by starting Obermeyer Photography, a Kansas-based company specializing in landscape prints and portrait services. When describing the mission of his business, Obermeyer doesn’t focus on income or milestones. Instead, he thinks of his work as a calling, saying, “As a photographer, it is my job to capture and share what I see, through my eyes, to be unique, inspiring or evocative.”
Obermeyer’s ability to pinpoint the small aspects in a larger scene that make the image special—whether it’s the excitement in the eyes of a new bride or the way rain collects into teardrops on a leaf—has earned him the best free marketing out there: word-of-mouth. He explains, “The biggest challenge as an entrepreneur and self-started business is not only the competition, but also exposure. I have found the best way to get yourself out there is the proven word-of-mouth approach and dedication to detail. Quality always speaks for itself, and when clients are happy with the final product, clientele spread the word on their own.”
With a portfolio filled to the brim with awe-inspiring photos of Kansas’s landscapes and intimate portraits of clients, Obermeyer offers Biz.me readers some insider tips on capturing beautiful photos. When it comes to learning the ropes of composition, he suggests studying photos that speak to you on a personal level. “I draw most inspiration by exploring others’ photographic works of art and mentally breaking down what it may have been like to be in their shoes, in that location, at that exact moment,” he says.
He also notes that it’s important to stay on top of current trends and technology, explaining, “In this industry, things change and progress daily. Just as a cosmetologist would have to keep up with current trends, a photographer must know what is trending in terms of colors, filters, effects and themes.”
For others trying to build a business from scratch, this self-taught photographer suggests starting small, saying, “Educate yourself in different tools and processes and find the ways that work best for your lifestyle. Then, grow in those ways until you are solid, confident and graceful if there are any hiccups along the way.”
Obermeyer also stresses the importance of being patient. “Outside of passion, perseverance and dedication, patience is the most valuable quality to have when starting your own business. All things take time, especially recognition of your talents,” he says.
If you’re interested in purchasing a beautiful landscape for your home or office, or if you’re in the Wichita area and want to hire a professional photographer, head over to Obermeyer’s website. And if you just want to see some breathtaking photos, peruse his portfolio or follow him on Facebook.
