Donations Photography
Small Business Snapshot focuses on:
Jim Gilbert, owner of Donations Photography, answers the questions for today’s Small Business Snapshot.
What is the primary purpose of your business?
Giving people that usually can’t afford a photo shoot the opportunity to have the enjoyment of one. We take donations, there is no set fee.
What is your business background?
I did take photography in high school in Illinois. Then when my niece got married I shot her wedding. I was a guest, not her paid photographer, but wanted to take photos.
Why did you start this particular business?
I love taking photos of people, landscapes, animals, etc.
What makes your business unique?
I do this just to give back to the community. I was once homeless, didn’t have a penny to my name, so I know what a lot of people are going through. It’s the love of photography and making people smile when they get their photos done that pushes me to help others. We have done photo shoots here in our home studio, at Berry College in Rome, the Rock Garden in Calhoun, in parks, etc.
What do you enjoy most about your chosen profession?
This is mainly something I love to do. It is not a “business.” There is no profit ... the donations received go toward purchasing supplies, props, etc.
What has been the biggest challenge to overcome as a small business owner?
My biggest challenge is getting my nerves settled before I go do a shoot, especially on location. Most of the time, I will have to have someone with me. Shoots that are here in studio, I pretty much do fine.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? I love giving back. Photography is my release, it keeps me busy and I enjoy it.