Karina, from Karina Dopp Design, is our Spotlight this week. She is a photographer and mom to twin boys.
She tells us her story.
What can you tell us about yourself?
I’m a stay-at-home mom to twin boys, I run a wedding photography business out of Jackson Hole, Wy, and I studied marketing at BYU-Idaho.
What were the origins of your business?
I suffered from severe postpartum depression and anxiety after I had my twins and I felt like I lost all purpose in my life. I loved watching Instagram influencers and entrepreneurs so I decided to go back to school for business marketing. One of the classes had us start a business and I had been dabbling in photography so that was my business for the semester. It went really well, so I kept it going and now I’m paying my bills and educating other photographers!
What aspects of your background have helped you the most?
As weird as it sounds, anxiety motivates me to get my work done and serve my clients. Also, my marketing education has helped tremendously in building a niche in a highly saturated market.
What were the main challenges you encountered at the beginning?
Comparing myself to other people was really hard for me. I thought I had to be what everyone else was. It took a while for me to figure out that Clients love people that stick out in the Industry, so I started serving them more than anyone in my area and giving them way more value.
Who was the most supportive of your idea?
Another photographer in my area messaged me and told me to charge more for my services and I couldn’t believe another photographer would do that. She had way better work than me but she made me feel so good. Without her, I would not be confident in the work I’m doing.
Have there been any changes in your business approach after Covid-19?
I started my business right before the pandemic, and honestly, it’s helped me gain a presence. I was able to take on jobs other photographers didn’t have time for and it was super nice!
What makes your offer unique?
To me, service is way more important than the dollar amount. One of my favorite photographers says “I like to like myself after I work with my clients” so even if something happens that isn’t ideal, I like to serve them rather than push a contract or time limit. They like you better that way.
Do you have any other passions?
Being a mom is really beautiful. Sometimes I get mom guilt when I have to work instead of being home with the twins, but then I remember that their relationship with their dad is just as important as mine with them. Plus, time away from them only makes me want to be around them more!
If you could go back in time, what would you do differently?
I would set boundaries for myself. I got burnt out by doing too much business and I wanted to quit. Having a business at home is hard because it’s not easy to give yourself personal time, but I’m way more productive when I have business hours and personal hours.
What challenges do you see ahead?
Reaching my financial goals always gives me anxiety and I shut myself down when I’m not “successful.” In my mind I know I can be successful, but I always have a fear of not achieving my goals.
What future projects does your business have?
Eventually, I want to retire my husband. I love my job and I want it to be able to relieve financial stress from our family and I want my husband to have the time to chase his dreams.
What message would you send to your followers?
My followers know I’m a big believer in setting and achieving realistic goals. I think if they knew that making a plan for your goals can help you accomplish anything that would be the best.
If you were to define your business in one sentence, how would you do it?
I’m a wedding and elopement photographer in Jackson Hole specializing in documenting authentic moments.
Karina Dopp Design’s Contact Info
@karinadoppdesigns
www.karinadoppdesigns.com
photosbykdopp@gmail.com
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Utility Avenue’s Spotlight focuses on promoting inspiring businesses every week. For a chance to be interviewed, contact us at support@utilityavenue.com with the subject Spotlight.