Alice Park always loved photography and has had a camera in hand since she was a young girl. Her family didn’t believe pursuing photography as a career was a practical endeavor, so she decided to obtain a degree in engineering instead. One year later in the corporate engineering world, she found herself incredibly unhappy and confiding in her soon-to-be husband about her passion for photography. Being the savvy businessman that he is, he helped her find a way to make a living doing what she loved most.
She had to learn early on that defining who she was as an artist, and what set her apart, was crucial in building her brand and cultivating loyal relationships among her clients. “In any service business, clients need to feel an emotional connection to you and your work. That is what makes you irreplaceable in their eyes.” Alice states.
Alice worked hard to develop strong relationships with her clients and deliver a product that no one else could. For her, it’s been the most thrilling experience watching her clients’ families grow over the years while also developing such dear and valuable friendships.
Tell us a bit about Alice Park Photography and what you love most about your business.
My husband Kyu and I started our photography business a little over 10 years ago, and it has grown tremendously over the years. What I love most about our business is that we have cultivated a culture within our team that family comes first with business next. My husband and I have always placed a huge emphasis on being present in our children’s lives as much as possible, and we’re grateful to be able to run a business that allows us the flexibility to do so.
What was the best piece of advice you were given when you started your photography business?
My husband told me that if I could figure out how to do what I love every single day, we’d find a way of figuring out the rest. So far, it’s worked out in my favor.
What was the biggest challenge that you faced in starting your business?
My biggest challenge was feeling very isolated in those first few years. The family photography industry lacked a community and being a female entrepreneur in any industry can feel lonely. My husband and I started NAPCP, the National Association of Professional Child Photographers, a couple of years later to begin to foster a sense of community.
Do you have any other employees or are you a solo operation?
Right now, we have a team of five working for Alice Park Photography. Our team consists of a production manager, lead designer, ordering consultant and a couple of associate photographers.
How do you unplug at the end of the workday or workweek?
I always enjoy having a glass of wine with my husband at the end of the workday. We call it our “happy hour.”
In moments of uncertainty or doubt, how do you build yourself back up?
I remember how fortunate I am to be doing what I love every day, and I focus on that.
What tools/apps do you use on a daily basis that you can’t live without?
I love my photo editing apps (VSCO Cam and Photoshop), which allow me to edit photos of my family on the go. I also love my note taking app (evernote) that keeps me on track when my days are so full. MyFitnessPal helps keep my fitness and health on track.
What’s your favorite thing about your workspace?
My absolute favorite thing about my workspace is all of the outpouring light it brings in. I’m a creature of light; I live and breathe it whenever I can. It’s the first thing I look for whenever I’m out on a photography project, and I purposely arranged all of our work desks beside our large, west-facing window.
Take A Look At Alice’s Work Space
Is there a woman (or women) past or present that you admire or look up to for inspiration and motivation?
I admire my mother and look up to her daily for motivation and a bit of wisdom. She is a strong woman and has always taught me to not be afraid to chase my dreams.
If you were given 3 more hours per day – how would you use them?
I would spend those extra hours photographing my own children, sleeping and maybe even squeezing in a workout!
What 3 pieces of advice would you offer to other female entrepreneurs?
Treat your business as a business first. Your time is worth money, and it should be valued as such.
Allow yourself grace daily. Balancing the roles of small business owner, motherhood and marriage can be overwhelming. Prioritize what is most important to you and let go of the rest.
Running your own business is like a constant roller coaster of highs and lows. Just when you think you’re reaching your peak, life has a way of taking your for a dip. Stay on the ride – and don’t be afraid to have a little fun. So many others would love the life we lead, so enjoy the journey!
Want to learn more about Alice Park? Follow Alice and her company at the links below.
Emily Sprinkle, also known as Emma Loggins, is a designer, marketer, blogger, and speaker. She is the Editor-In-Chief for Women's Business Daily where she pulls from her experience as the CEO and Director of Strategy for Excite Creative Studios, where she specializes in web development, UI/UX design, social media marketing, and overall strategy for her clients.
Emily has also written for CNN, Autotrader, The Guardian, and is also the Editor-In-Chief for the geek lifestyle site FanBolt.com
Responses