1- Share a bit of your story with us.  A little about you, your family, where you’re from and that little quirky thing about you 🙂

Hello! I’m Jamie Delaine and I’m a wedding and portrait photographer living just outside of Vancouver, BC – what I consider to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. I started photographing weddings full time when I was eighteen years old and I’ve never looked back! When I’m not working, I love hanging out with my husband (we’ll be married one year in March!) or our new australian labradoodle puppy named Harley. He’s the best. I absolutely love green tea and dark chocolate and it’s a sad day when both aren’t available to me. 😉

2-  How did you come to the conclusion that wedding photography/engagement sessions are your love, passion and niche?

I initially started out in weddings because, it seemed to be “the thing” most photographers did if they wanted to work full-time. Very quickly, I fell in love with the unpredictable-ness of the day and the emotion of it all. Engagement sessions are my favourite for another reason – because I CAN control more elements and it really gives us an opportunity to create un-rushed portraits.

3- Right now it seems most every photography will jump on any job that comes their way.  They aren’t spending the time to key in on their passion aka niche’.  Do you think this can hinder someone’s business?

I definitely think being a one-size-fits-all business can hurt your career, ultimately. When you’re starting out, I understand the temptation to take everything and anything. If I’m being honest, I will occasionally shoot outside of engagement/weddings – but I will rarely blog them or show them online. Your time would be best spent figuring out how to get the clients you want in the niche you want! Marketing!

4- What would be your number one tip in helping someone find what their niche’ is for their photography business?

Oooh. I guess, what do you enjoy the most? What kind of photographer are you? Are you inspired by nature or urban settings? Curate your portfolio and go from there!

5- What is your biggest piece of advice for someone that is ready to jump solely to the niche’ they feel is their passion and love and forget the rest?  Maybe they have fear of loosing clients or income….how would/could you advise them?

You never know until you jump. It’s the same thing with raising your prices – there is no business without risk. Take the risk. Raise the “bar” for the kind of weddings you’ll accept and you’ll be surprised to see what happens.

6- In what ways has photographing solely your niche strengthened your photography business?

Clients know what to expect when they come to my Facebook page, instagram or website. I’m not sharing “best tips for family photos” or “pet photography poses.” I’m sharing tidbits and facts about my experience as a bride, articles that will help you plan your wedding, etc. My blog then becomes a valuable resource for brides.

7- What has been the most successful form of marketing for you?

Facebook and my blog, for sure! All social media in general.

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