Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Dragon.
Mike , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve been a professional photographer since 2005. Primarily photographing weddings, commercial work, marketing, corporate functions, families, boudoir… just about everything. I’ve always loved making “stuff” and being creative. Before I became a photographer I wanted to be a baker. I love sweets… it is possibly one of my greatest weaknesses. I love food too. Making food. Eating food. Of course, photographing food too! Since 2019 I also began the journey of becoming a videographer. I work mostly with commercial clients in that space. Creating content and telling stories for businesses has become something I really enjoy. This is what I do full time and I don’t see myself ever doing anything else.
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?
Owning a business is never easy. Ever. Maybe more so when you are completely solo. I do everything- admin, operations, logistics, marketing, HR, PR, financials- it’s non stop. Fun fact, around 2010 I almost closed shop and moved on after just 5 years. I think those first few years of starting a business can be “easier” because people want to support you. But once that small pond dries up is when the real work starts. Through a lot of luck and determination I was able to really take off and within a year I was ready to take my business from part time to full time and have been able to shape my life and support my family ever since.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I think what sets me apart the most is that I’m a horrible sales person. I’ll never force anyone to pay me more money. I like to operate my business as if I’m doing business with myself. I hate sales pitches and dishonest practices. So I’ve always lead with being open and honest with all my clients. I’ll never make someone do something they are uncomfortable with. For all my commercial clients I always discuss branding, voice and story with them. This way I can always fit the vibe with the photos and videos I’m creating for people. Art is so subjective so it’s important for me to be versatile. I can do candid or light and airy or dramatic. I lean into listening to what my clients want rather than dictating what I think they should get.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
If you’re starting out and want to get noticed. Try all the things. Join groups. Try different methods of advertising. Eventually something will stick. Don’t just rely on one thing though. Trends change and something that has worked for a decade may stop abruptly. So be flexible.
Pricing:
- Weddings $$
- Commercial $$
- Portraits $
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.DragonPhotoStudio.com
- Instagram: DragonPhotoStudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DragonPhotoStudio
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dragonstudio/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dragonphotostudio
Image Credits
Headshot of myself was taken by Sami Roy Photography
