Showcasing like-minded business owners who love gemstones and appreciate great design!

Tell me a little about your business and what its purpose is

It is really hard to try and sum up the ‘why’ behind choosing to be a photographer/visual storyteller. What lies at the heart of my ‘why’ is a fascination and respect for human relationships – how we all love and live.  I specialise in Wedding Photography (including destination wedding photography), Portrait Photography, Personal Branding Photography, Food Photography and Boudoir Photography but also undertake many Commercial and Corporate commissions.

Where did your passion for your business come from?

There has never been any doubt about my speciality, my photographic passion – and that is photographing people. And I’m convinced you can only do this successfully if you enjoy making connections and building relationships.  I just love creating beautiful imagery and being able to share that with others.  My photography has taken me to some amazing places and I’ve met many incredible people.  I’m very grateful that I enjoy my work so much. 

How have you adapted your business to the current climate?

It is currently entirely impossible to go out and shoot as normal.  I have taken the time that we have been given to spend some time on updating my websites and galleries.  I rarely have time to get to this so it has been really lovely to go back through shoots from the last 10 years and rediscover images and clients that I have long forgotten!

What top three tips would you give to someone looking to start their own business right now?

1. Enjoy having time to do your research!  You have time to really look at the market you are planning to enter and try and find your own niche - how you can do something a bit different to make sure your offering is unique and you will stand out. 

2. Use the time to set up all the management and admin systems that you will need going forward - for example your book keeping and accounting software.  You won’t want to spend time on this when work gets exciting again so get it done now and then you won’t be dragged down by the admin as you grow. 

3. Reach out to other small businesses that touch your sector - small business networking can be incredibly effective and lead to amazing opportunities and friendships.  After all that’s how we met!

What kind of jewellery do you wear?

I’m very much on the silver/white gold spectrum and love jewellery with an Art Deco or slightly rock chick feel.  I love dainty jewellery but it doesn’t love me!

Do you have a jewellery wish list? Perhaps a board on Pinterest?! 

I’ve never quite nailed the everyday (but gorgeous) necklace. I loved the recent layering look but never found ‘the one’.

… Thanks Kate! Yes, we met in a village pub at a networking lunch, and I remember how cool you looked!

Thank you for my gorgeous model photography and styling!

Here’s a useful link about necklace layering from Liza Urla from Gemologue

Kate Hopewell-Smith Photography.

Website: katehopewellsmith.com

Twitter: @Kate_H_S_Photo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katehopewellsmith/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KateHopewellSmithPhotography/