“I decided to follow my gut and do it anyway!” How Helen created a business by combining her passions!

Women to Watch

7 Oct

Helen Smith started MooDog Photography by combining her other hats/roles, and juggles her small business with a non-photography job. Here she tells us about how MooDog came to be and why staying positive is key to her success.

What’s your biz?

MooDog Photography - I am a studio pet photographer based in the beautiful Wairarapa, New Zealand.

Who do you work with?

Anybody who would love to enjoy a beautiful photo of their pet(s) on their wall!
What do you do when you are a veterinarian AND a fine art photographer - make fine art pet portraits of course.

I offer safe, artful, and fun studio sessions for all your pets, big and small. With a background as a veterinarian, I understand animal behaviour and will get the best from your pet.

After the session, I provide high quality artwork for your home. Products include luxury albums, framed wall art, canvas collections, and metal prints.

What sparked the idea behind your business?

I was a nature and fine art photographer with a background as a veterinarian. One day I just put two and two together and wondered why I hadn't thought of it earlier!

What does a typical day look like for you as a business owner?

I photograph on weekends and do the editing and other jobs during the week. I also have a part time non-photography job!

What are some of the key milestones in your business journey so far?

I signed up to She Owns It!

I ignored advice from other photographers that I should find my 'style' before I go out to the public and I decided to follow my gut and do it anyway.

What have been some of the biggest challenges you've faced so far - and how have you overcome them?

I don't like the sales aspect, or the advertising (at all)!

What are you most excited about in your business right now?

In the short-term I aim to get 4 shoots a month and to turn these into wall art sales.

I am excited to get systems in place to make it easier for me.

What’s worked best for you to build brand awareness and get customers?

Attending a Pet expo.

Displaying my artwork in various places!

What is one of the important lessons you've learnt as a business owner? What advice would you share to someone starting out?

Ignore the negative comments and hang out with positive people!

How does being a part of She Owns It help you in your business journey?

Positive attitude towards business and making a go of it.

⚡️ FAST 5:

1. One thing you’d tell your younger self starting out?
You're doing just fine!

2. Your favourite biz or personal development books or podcasts?
Freedom Focus Photography podcast.

3. How many tabs do you have open right now?
A zillion!

4. What's your go-to power song?
Anything guns 'n roses.

5. A quote you love and why?
A problem is just a decision not made.