Meet Quianna Wilkins | Owner & Photographer of Quianna Quinn Photography

We had the good fortune of connecting with Quianna Wilkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Quianna, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
It started when I picked up photography as a hobby in high school. From there I began to want to learn more and more about it. Eventually I started learning from a family friend who was a full time wedding photography. I slowly began to realize that this could be something I did as my job in the future. Before all of this, I had always thought college wasn’t for me, and that I wanted to start a business. So seeing all the pieces come together was so neat. It took quite awhile for me to actually take a step towards starting a photography business… it seemed so overwhelming and difficult. But I began to be encouraged with so many other photographers around me who were also on the same journey. You end up learning so much when you just go for it and out submerge yourself in the photography world. I think college is great for some, but I am glad I made the decision to not go, and instead learn from the photographers who have a successful thriving business!! The education I have received from those photographers is unreal!! I am still in year one of officially starting my business. I am learning to take it slow and never stop learning.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I got to where I am in business today through continually educating myself in every area. It is how I plan to grow my business more and more. Knowledge truly is power!! It is not always easy to stay consistent with educating yourself , but it is so worth it in the end. One lesson I’ve learned along the way is how everyone is different and will run their business in a way unique to them. It is good to learn from others, but creating something true to you is a whole different story.

One thing I want the world to know about me and my brand is that it is a lot of hard work to run a small business, but in the end I want to do my very best to share positivity through it all. I want to serve my clients well, and have true human connection. I run a “business” but I am one human who wants to keep connecting with others and properly capture/share their stories.

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 would first take a friend to bingo burger, downtown Colorado Springs. They have one of the best burgers in my opinion. I would then take them to Kung Fu Tea for a drink, because there are too many people who have not given boba a try. After, I would take them to look at either Garden of the Gods, or the Paint Mines. Both of those locations are stunning, especially when you go with someone who is experiencing it for the first time… it reminds you of all the beauty you’ve gotten used to.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My first mentor in this industry was Kari, (Owner & Photographer of Kari Joy Photography). She taught me the basics of shooting in manual. Honestly I don’t know how she did it, because thinking back… I was so lost!! I asked so many (what now sound) ridiculous questions. I am so thankful for her patience and encouragement through my whole photography journey! I think she saw potential in me to be a photographer. I am beyond grateful that she took the time to teach and mentor me. She is a huge reason why I am where I am today in this business. Thank you so much Kari!!

Website: quiannaquinnphotography.com

Instagram: @quiannaquinnphoto

Facebook: Quianna Quinn Photography

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