In this episode, Chris talks with Lu Ross, owner of Lu Ross Photography. Lu’s art has been selected by the Wildling Museum of Art & Nature for their Centennial celebration and featured in several galleries and art shows. 

Lu has always had a passion for creativity. After 14 years as a web developer, Lu realized how much she missed making art. So she went back to school for photography and started a business. Lu’s mission is to use her artwork to help everyone feel connected to, at peace with, and respectful of the natural world around them.

More than just a photographer, Lu has used her passion to generate multiple streams of income. Aside from selling her pieces and working with interior designers, she’s taught professionally and even published a book. 

Chris and Lu discuss life as a professional artist, the key relationships that drive entrepreneurial success, overcoming impossible hurdles, and the final wins that make it all worth it.

“Focus on the value that you offer to your clients, create from the heart, and don’t worry about the outcome.” ~ Lu Ross

Main takeaways 

Starting a business comes with a few key first steps. You have to have a clear mission, and a target audience to sell to. 

Developing relationships with everyone is so important. And it’s not just about building bonds with clients and vendors. Develop relationships with your CPA, your designers, and your printing labs. 

Building an audience and a customer base is incredibly hard and can take much longer than you anticipate. Patience and persistence are key.

Links

Lu Ross Photography 

Lu Ross on Instagram

Lu Ross on Facebook

Lu Ross on LinkedIn 

Wildling Museum of Art & Nature 

Nature First

Give Back To Nature

New York Institute of Photography

Esterley Designs

Connect with Chris

Chris Struckhoff website

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn

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