We had the good fortune of connecting with Emily Lamont and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Emily, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I actually started out just wanting to take beautiful images of my kids! I have loved photography since I was in Highschool – I got to take a film and digital photography course, I learned a ton but honestly didn’t truly get back into it until I was an adult. I would share the images I took of my kids on social media for family to see and I started having friends message me telling me I needed to consider becoming a professional photographer. I honestly doubted myself at first but I took a leap of faith and started my own business. I think photography chose me as much as I chose it. My biggest driving factor in starting my business was to work with people and develop lasting relationships with my clients. Creating a safe and fun place for people to capture memories is always important to me.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I think one of the most important things to do – even in a creative field is to continue to learn! I have come a long way in my work since I first started and I think I have a long way to go! What sets me apart from others is that I try to always remain humble about my work and take time to get to know my clients on a deeper level. I actually have “restarted” my business a few times because of moving to new states, and that is the biggest challenge I have had to overcome. I am grateful that I have kept so many amazing clients from other states that I still get to work with. Building a new clientele is always a challenge, especially when you don’t know anyone but that will definitely not stop me from doing it! Running a business is never easy, and it shouldn’t be, but that is what makes it rewarding. I am where I am today because I don’t want to give up and I still have a reason to doing this, because it is a passion of mine. I want the world to know that photography is important and beautiful, I always strive to create and share the beauty that is capturing memories.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love the food and the parks in Denver so eating and being at the park is a must. I would recommend so many places to eat and things to do! Breakfast at Denver Biscuit Co, a small lunch at Lazo’s (a delicious empanada place), and stopping by a food truck, Lowery beer gardens is also a must! Some fun activities are Jazz in the park at Central Park, walking around a local farmers market, the Denver Zoo, or 16th street. Plus you must have a scooter ride around downtown. At night I love the vibe and music at Nocturne with a slice of pizza at Cosmos!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to thank my clients, I know this may sound cliché but without them I wouldn’t be running a business. Especially those that take the time to refer me to their friends and the ones that come back when they are ready to update their wall art, capture a milestone, or create a fun new memory! They keep me motivated and grateful. I am also thankful to the family and friends that encourage me to continue my business even when it can be challenging!
Website: millyjphoto.com
Instagram: millyjphoto
Facebook: Milly j Photography
Image Credits
Emily Lamont – Milly J Photography