I truly love what I do and getting to call photography my career is honestly a dream greater than I had originally imagined for myself. What started as an interest soon became a hobby, passion and now I’m not just a girl who takes pictures but a PHOTOGRAPHER. I work really hard on my craft, my communication and my overall business and I do it because I want to and I love it. But that doesn’t mean that it isn’t a fantastic feeling to see my work being picked up by various blogs and publications so that it can be shared with a broader audience (that’s pretty cool). Woke up this morning to this unexpected award and truly appreciate the recognition and honor. Thank you to www.twobrightlights.com for honoring me with my 3rd consecutive Editors Choice Award!
There is something really amazing about getting to witness a family bond and literally fall in love with their new baby. I really am grateful to all of the moms/dads who open their home to me during these early days to not just experience it, but be a part of preserving it for years to come… Meet Baby L and his mom/dad and super proud BIG sister!
It’s hard to believe that a new year is already upon us and 2014 is a mere memory! Oh, but the memories that were made and what an amazing year it was for RMP!
Today happens to be the 2 year anniversary of me opening my ‘doors’ FULL TIME as a photographer. On this day, 2 years ago I was handing in my badge, laptop and iPhone to my corporate career of 15 years and taking a leap of faith on Renee Marie Photography and where it might take me. What an amazing journey thus far…and the best is still yet to come!
In reflecting on 2014 I’m in awe of the leaps and bounds that my business grew! I started the year with the hopes of accomplishing a few key milestones…I wanted to grow my core client base (family/children) by 20%, increase profits by the same, introduce a larger variety of print products to my menu (and actually sell them) and the BIG GOAL was to move a portion of my business into wedding photography! I’m so insanely proud to say that I not only accomplished all of my goals but over exceeded on each. I’m most proud of the new clients that I have gained while retaining my faithful base of ‘regular’ clients who continue to honor me by choosing me over and over again and now referring their own friends and family!
It’s particularly exciting to have RMP Bridal fully integrated and a part of my photography journey! I have loved working with my brides and grooms and not just capturing their special days but also making amazing friendships along the way! In addition to Bay Area work in the bridal industry I had the unique opportunity to be hired and flown all the way to North Shore Oahu, HI to photograph an intimate ceremony in tropical paradise! Pinch me, I mist be dreaming!
I streamlined processes to work more efficient and also speed up turnaround times on gallery deliveries. I’ll be doing more of the same in the months to come.
I’m still working on my goal list for 2015 but it includes much of the same as last year in terms of continuing to grow my business while also focusing on MY CLIENTS and their needs. Without all of you there really is no RMP and you will always remain at the forefront of my priorities and plans. I have some longer term visions that will include ’employees’ both to help with the administrative side of the business and eventually an associate to join me in the field shooting (YAY)!
I thank everyone for following me along the way, sticking around and being a part of what has been the hardest but most rewarding ‘job’ I’ve had to date (and if you worked with me in Silicone Valley, that is saying a lot)! I’m enthusiastic and optimistic about what the next 12 months have in store for ALL of us and cannot wait to see you in front of the lens in 2015.
Happy New Year!
Renee Marie
It may only be September 1st but the fall season is already bustling here at RMP! I announced my annual fall minis last week and slots are filling up quickly!
I’m doing things a little different this year and instead of having one or two dates available for everyone with time slots, I’m allowing clients to customize their own month and date (availability pending)!
I’m nearly booked for 2014 and already taking session dates for 2015. Looking forward to seeing you in front of the lens soon!!