Joanne Markland – Photographer

Tell us a bit about YOU and your family (where you are based, single / married, number of kids, etc)

I am a photographer based in Cape Town. I am married and have a 7 month old busy little boy. I work from home which is quite a challenge with a baby around. I love the outdoors and one of my favourite things to do is rollerblade by the beach.

What is the name of your company and when did you start your business?

“Joanne Markland Photography” and I started it about 4 years ago.

What inspired you to start your own business?

I was working as an assistant for advertising photographers and after about 3 years I realized that I would rather be taking photographs myself instead of watching other people take them. So I got my portfolio ready and started seeing clients in the magazine industry. I have done quite a bit of work for some local magazines. I have always had such a passion for wedding photography and realized that this is where I wanted to focus most of my energy.

What are the challenges you face or have faced being a working Mom and how have you overcome them?

I think one of the biggest challenges is time management, trying to juggle your work in between looking after a baby. Luckily I have a great mom and mother-in-law who help me out whenever I need time to finish any of my work.

What is the hardest part or have been some of your struggles starting your own business?

“Getting your name out there” I think that is one of the hardest things. I’m not really a Facebook or social media kind of person(I’m trying!) and because I’m quite shy the term “networking” scares me (LOL) I am a little old fashioned and feel when I meet couples about a wedding they should want to book me because they like my work and because they feel comfortable with me, not because I have 2000 “likes” on my Facebook page.

How do you balance your business and your family?

Although most of my work is on weekends, I am very fortunate to have my son with me at home during the week. So I get to spend quite a bit of time with him. My husband and I always make time whether its early on a Saturday morning or on a Sunday to do something as a family.

What or whom has been the greatest support for you and your business?

My husband has been the greatest support, always being so positive and motivating me. No matter how tough things get, he always just says the right things which make me want to try harder.

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?

I don’t think I would do it all again, I’m quite happy so far.

What advice can you give other Moms out there who are starting a new business?

Stay positive no matter how tough it gets, everyone deserves their big break so if you are patient it will happen. If you are ever thinking about starting your own business just do it because one day you might regret never trying.

If other Moms would like to keep in touch, how can they contact you?

Email me: info (at) joannemarkland.co.za
Facebook: Joanne Markland Photography
Website: http://www.joannemarkland.co.za/