Today we have a photography studio tour with Galicia of Photography by Galicia. To say the Galicia is a rock star is an understatement. This amazing mama of five, not only has incredible skills but also runs and operates a successful high school senior portrait business AND studio in the Tri-Cities Washington area. When you are the counterpart of your subject it is easy to create a relationship that is fluid and natural. She is often seen having fun with her high school clients, being silly and helping them to embrace their inner beauty. Through her lens she is able to capture the light that shines through each and every one of them. Photography by Galicia has been featured in several online publications, including Senior Style Guide’s Hot 100, Seniorologie and much more! Join us as we chat with her about her studio and how she keep it all together as a mom and business owner.
Name, business location?
Galicia Virgen
Photography by Galicia
Richland, Washington
How long have you been a photographer?
2.5 years
What/who do you love to shoot? (ie families, children, couples, seniors etc)?
Seniors are my life!
What are the 3 words that describe your style?
Classic, Modern, Bold
Back to some studio deets! When did you open your studio?
A year after being in business.
Do you feel having a studio has changed the growth/dynamic of your business good/bad?
I am lucky to have enough space and to convert our detached garage into my office/studio. It’s great to be able to walk out my door at go to “work”. At the end of the day, I can walk away from it all, unplug and spend time with my family. I think you can have a successful business with or without a space. However, for me, it’s a great little spot to have my clients come for their consultations, to view their gallery and have in-person ordering sessions. But these can be done in your client’s home or at a coffee shop. My business model is what helped me grow. Having a studio/office is the icing on the cake (if you know what I mean).
What is the biggest challenge in owning a studio?
Aside from keeping it clean…lol, I really don’t have any challenges. :)
What is the best part of having a studio?
That I can have a place to create works of art for my clients and that I it’s literally 10 steps from my home. I also love that I don’t have to pay “rent” for an actual space.
Share with us one tip on how you balance your home life with managing a studio and your overall business!
Create a work schedule and stick with it. I did that this past year and I wish I would have done it sooner. Being upfront with your clients of your work schedule will create boundaries that are respected and appreciated. It ultimately came down to spending time with my family. The more I said yes and didn’t have a clear work schedule, the less time I got to spend time with my family. We are in business to be able to have that time with our loved ones. So you owe it to yourself to take time and create that work schedule and stick with it. I promise it will be worth it! Plus remember, your clients chose you based on your work, so you are already “in”!
What is your favorite product that you sell to your clients and why?
I love the storyboards that I create! I love that they are ready to hang and showcase several images rather than just one.
What is your go-lens and why?
I only own one lens. It’s my 50 1.8. Although I rent the 35 1.4 a lot.
Do you shoot more on location or in studio?
I shot 98% on location. I have only done one shot in my studio. The light is great but it doesn’t accommodate large groups.
When and why did you finally decide it was time to open a studio?
I decided it was time to have a space when I changed my business model to offer an experience. I needed a room to showcase the product that I offer and to hold consultations and in-person sales. I don’t regret taking the plunge!
Thank you Galicia for hanging with us today and sharing your space with us and your beautiful work!
I think what it all comes down to is that in order to really be successful as business owners we must be attempt to successful in all parts of our lives and that includes putting our families as a priority because after all they are the reason we work so hard! Galicia opened a studio in her home to further build that balance so she could still offer her clients a beautiful experience without feeling like she would be spending too much time away from her loved ones. Whether you prefer to service clients in their homes, your home or in a brick and mortar environment you can design a business that works best for you!
Head on over to Facebook to see more of Galicia’s current work!
In the Washington area and need a Tri-Cities High School Photographer? Well then jump to her storefront to get more info!
