From Biology Lab to Wedding Photographer: Kiarra Stommes' Entrepreneurial Journey

Takeaways

• Turning a creative passion into a full-time business requires persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.
• Success in photography is about much more than taking photos. Client communication, marketing, editing, and systems matter just as much.
• Community and networking can create opportunities that would never happen otherwise.
• Creative entrepreneurs often work far beyond traditional business hours.
• Growth comes from continually learning, evolving, and improving your craft.

In this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly sit down with Kiarra Stommes, owner of Kiarra Rae Photography, to discuss her journey from studying biology and working in a laboratory to building a successful photography business.

Kiarra shares how a camera purchase with her brother unexpectedly opened the door to a career in photography after her cousin invited her to assist with client sessions and weddings. What started as a hobby quickly became a side business, eventually growing into a full-time career.

The conversation explores the realities of entrepreneurship, including managing clients, marketing, editing, systems, and balancing the many responsibilities that come with running a creative business. Kiarra also discusses her documentary-style photography approach, the importance of authentic client relationships, and why she values community over competition.

Whether you're a photographer, creative professional, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers practical insights into building a business around something you genuinely love.

Key Topics Covered:

• Kiarra's transition from biology graduate to photographer
• Learning photography through mentorship
• Building Kiarra Rae Photography
• Going from side hustle to full-time entrepreneur
• Wedding photography and client experience
• Documentary-style photography
• Managing business operations behind the scenes
• Setting boundaries as a business owner
• The importance of networking and referrals
• Community versus competition in creative industries
• Lessons learned from entrepreneurship
• Growth, mentorship, and continuous learning

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