Today we’d like to introduce you to Rina Coker.
Hi Rina, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey with photography started when I was a teenager. I would make friends “model” for me, and I just enjoyed the creative outlook that came from it. I fully pursued photography in the Summer of 2019. I was pregnant with my first child, and I knew my current hotel career wouldn’t allow me to be as present as I wanted. I invested in education for about a year and learned all the foundations of photography before starting my business. I niched down to family photography from the start of my career, and it’s been a blessing. I love meeting new families and having a chance to document their love and authentic moments.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Being in a military family certainly challenges my business since we often move. It’s been quite a ride to build up a clientele again and learn how to market to new areas. In the short three years since my business opened, I have done business in 3 states for reference. It’s not the ideal situation, but it is what it is.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am primarily a family photographer and document maternity, newborn, and family portraits. I knew from the beginning that I wanted to specialize in something I love, and I love meeting new families and truly getting to know them. I document my family in a lifestyle way, so it’s a lot of candid moments filled with love and laughter. I provide a very high-touch experience, so I’m involved in their process of getting photos done. I help them with their outfits, choosing locations, and capturing real connections to where they feel like themselves when they look back at their photos. I also assist them with getting their artwork printed and seen. Living in such a digital era, we have forgotten the beauty of looking back at a family album. I want to ensure that all my clients have tangible heirloom artwork they can pass down to their kids. There is so much nostalgia that comes from looking back at images from so many years ago, and I want to ensure that I have served my family well in that aspect.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I advise anyone starting photography to invest education in someone you admire. If you see yourself doing what they do years from now, invest in whatever education they provide. Never stop learning! Don’t assume you know everything! There is more to photography than the artistic side of things. Taking photos and editing is only 5% of what your business entails. There is so much to learn about building a profitable and sustainable business, so I also encourage hiring a business coach to help you get to where you want to be.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rinacoker.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rinacokerphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rinacokerphotography
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/rinacokerphotography/
Image Credits:
Branding Photo Credit: Kim Lyn Photography
