Meet Ellie McLain | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ellie McLain and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ellie, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
In the last year I have made a lot of changes to my work life balance. I used to schedule myself to death, and squeeze sessions and editing in anytime that I possibly could. However, After having children I realized that the most important place for me to be is home and PRESENT with them as often as I can be. Don’t get me wrong, I adore what I do and getting to spend time with the families and couples I get to photograph. But at the end of the day I prioritize my time at home with my family above all things.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Trial and error.. Running your own business for me has been a lot of trying things and figuring out what worked best and what didn’t. It has not been easy for me. Navigating how to run a business, while working part time as a Registered Nurse, and raising two children definitely has definitely added some obstacles.

One of the biggest things I have learned working in this industry is that not everyone will be your biggest fan and that’s okay! It does not mean you have to change the way you do things to make people happy. Photography is an art form and you have to find the client base that appreciates your art. Don’t sell yourself short or try to be someone else because you think it will make you successful!

The one thing about me that I hope clients appreciate is I try to be very personable and honest. Sometimes It’s easy to lose site of why you do what you do once you start a business and get caught up in all the logistics of it all. I’ve made it a point to reply to all my inquires, emails, and comments in a way that makes clients feel heard and important. Being a photographer you are invited to capture some of the most private and important events in people’s lives, which is why I conduct my business the way that I do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Traverse City Area is absolutely gorgeous in all seasons, sleeping bear dunes is unreal. I feel like we would spend most of the week outside exploring the lake shore, hiking empire bluffs, pyramid point, and the scenic drive! We would visit my favorite little beach town, Elk rapids, and explore Maple Bay and Maple hurst natural area! Maybe stop by tow line ciders & Myrtle and Maude’s in Williamsburg. Spend an entire day in traverse city exploring downtown!
I just feel like you can’t truly enjoy the beauty of the area without being outside.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people who have contributed to my success. My biggest supporter from the very beginning has been my husband. He is the one who pushed me out of my comfort zone and encouraged me to start my business. He constantly reminds me what I am capable of and helps me push past my fears and insecurities (because let’s be honest I’d be lying if I said I’ve never second guessed myself.) I have grown so much as a person since starting this business since he pushed me to do it!

I also owe a huge shoutout to one of my good friends, Jess, who pointed me in the right direction and answered all my ridiculous questions when I first got started. As well as multiple other photographers I have met along the way. Taking the time to regularly Educate yourself with other people in your industry is one of the biggest investments you can make in yourself and your business when it comes to photography! There is always something new to learn.

I also feel that all of my clients deserve some credit supporting me and helping my business become what it is today. Especially the ones who come back time and time again. Or that share my work, or go out of their way to help promote my events.

Website: www.emcreativephoto.com

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