top resources for Photographers
& Entrepreneurs
Resources, inspiration, and mentorship for creatives in business and those who want to be.
feeling stuck?
Owning a business can be more than you bargained for.
For most of us, the idea of becoming a photographer, florist, or entrepreneur of the creative kind begins with the idea of one thing… service. We love the idea of creating, building, and loving people. But rarely do we get really excited about systematizing a small business and getting MBA-level marketing expertise… and yet, that often is what’s required to run more than a side hustle or really expensive hobby. Below you’ll find some of my top resources for entrepreneurs and those who are trying to serve others well while running a successful business.
Looking for help?
Don’t do it alone.
Often times you feel like you know where you’re stuck but do you? Blind spots are called that for a reason. Being a business owner can be lonely and hard. The honest statistics show us that 85% of creative entrepreneurs never make it out of the first few years of business. Why? Because being a photographer, florist, or fine artist is different than being a business owner.
The wild thing is that you have to be really good at BOTH in order to have longevity in our industry. Plus, if you’re a photographer you have to actually learn the technical side of photography…
It can be a lot, you shouldn’t do it alone.
what does success look like to you?
Comparison is the thief of joy. It’s also the thief of actually moving forward in life. If that’s the case then why is it so hard to focus on the impact we’re trying to make in the world and not worry about what you’re seeing scrolling on social media? Which, I’m sorry to tell you, isn’t even accurate.
If you’re serious about building a business that’s sustainable for your life but also makes a positive impact in the world then you need to know what that looks like to you. What does it take to get there? And most importantly…
Do you want to move forward?
get the tools you need
free resources for the creative entrepreneur
Natural
isn't enough
Tools
you need
kind words What to expect?
“Prior to working with Oona, I had tried mentorship programs with a few other industry leaders that promised to grow my business, give me the tools I needed, etc. None of these programs were able to meet me where I was at in my business, properly assess my needs, and point me in the right direction. Fast forward to meeting Oona, and from the jump she gave me actionable steps that I could implement in my business immediately and see results. I literally thank God for the blessing she has been to me. Not only has she helped me see what I need to update and improve in my business, but she also pushes me to grow in my photography skills, reminds me to celebrate the small wins, and constantly encourages me and reassures me, that I am on the right path. Choosing Oona and Dragonfly Photography to help further my photography education, is one of the best decisions I could have made to help me in my business. 10 out of 10 I highly recommend!!”
– Jamenda
We all need a team in our corner
No matter how “brilliant” of a creative you are without the proper support you won’t be able to travel as far as you will with people to cheer you on and help you see what you’re missing.
60 Minute Virtual Session, Personal business coaching for the creative ENTREPRENEUR.
Recommended Podcasts:
01
Archetypes
Megan Markle – This podcast covers the archetypes and tropes we land in and challenges those ideas. This is especially fun for a female business owner.
02
Revisionist History
Malcome Gladwell – This is a podcast that helps you think outside the box. Potentially the most important skill an entrepreneur can possess.
03
Weddings for Real
Megan Gillikin – What’s really happening behind all that glamor? Real talk is the most important self care there is in this industry, Megan has our backs.
04
Own Your Buisness
Sam Jacobson – Real action points on moving forward and making changes that make a difference in the date to day.
Hi, I’m Oona
business owner, photographer, and mom of a special needs child...
I get work-life balance is complicated. I chose not to start my business many years before I probably should have because I knew what entrepreneurship looked like, and to be honest, it kind of scared me. I’m not a 24/7 work all the time kind of person but when you own a business that happens, way more than you’d like to admit. My life is complicated and so is yours. I love spending time helping my friends achieve their goals and I’m especially passionate about women business owners who are committed to leaving this world a better place than it was before they showed up.
If you’re looking for an outside perspective but not a “ra ra” coach, I’d love to help.
worthwhile reads
Building a StoryBrand
Curious about what’s in our bags?
Looking for professional photography gear? Visit our Amazon site to find a few of the essential gear we use and love for both our photo and video teams. Everything from lighting down to the cameras themselves.
CAMERAS & LENSES
Nikon Z 6II FX-Format Mirrorless Camera
Nikon D850 FX-Format Digital SLR Camera
Nikon AF FX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G
Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 105mm f/1.4E ED
Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm f/2.8G ED
Nikon FM2N 35mm SLR Film Camera
Pentax 645 Medium Format Film Camera
SONY Cinema Line FX30 Super 35 Camera
Need help? Business is challenging. Don't do it alone.
Being a business owner can be lonely and hard. The honest statistics show us that 85% of creative entrepreneurs never make it out of the first few years of business. Why? Because being a photographer, florist, or fine artist is different than being a business owner. The wild thing is that you have to be really good at BOTH in order to have longevity in our industry. Our owner and principal photographer offers select business coaching for the creative entrepreneur because we believe you shouldn’t do it alone.
Gatekeeping? Never heard of her.
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Dragonfly Photography | Editorial wedding photography, based in Cleveland, Ohio with travel worldwide.
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