Often we don’t have to reinvent the wheel to learn something new – we can just ask experts in the field who can draw on their experience to enlighten us. Below, we’ve shared insights insiders from various industries have shared with us.

Clarione Gutierrez-Owens

The price of the artwork or service isn’t simply reflective of the cost of materials and time spent creating/performing it. It incorporates years of training and experience building up that value. It also covers the cost of making a livable wage. When applying for a job, under “Salary Expectations” don’t you write what you think you’re worth? How do you determine that number? It’s the same principle for artists except that “salary” is broken down into the prices of our pieces. Layer on to that the amount of criticism an artist experiences in their career from people who feel they are qualified to appraise your art and skills (they’re usually not). People may assume that criticism comes with the job but most may not be aware of how much an artist may receive. Even some of the most prestigious creatives get their fair share of unwarranted critique. Read more>>

Cheryl Polk | Maternity, Newborn and Family Photographer

Most people think photographers just take a couple photos and they look great straight out of the camera. And that just because we have an expensive camera means we can take good photos. But most people don’t realize all that goes in to running a photography business. So how do we spend our days? Taking pictures, culling and editing photos, location scouting, continual education, bookkeeping/taxes/insurance, communication with clients on numerous items (location, outfits, etc), social media, networking, camera and computer upkeep, advertising and marketing…and any other things that come up! I will admit I had no clue that so much went into this job before I started, but I’m incredibly grateful to be where I am today!! Read more>>

Petra Ives | Brand Clarity & Design

I am currently pivoting from visual design to brand clarity and strategy, which leaves a lot of people with a blank stare… What does that mean? Well, before, as a graphic designer, I would just say I create the visual expression for brands or, more simply put, I design logos and everything that comes with it. Ah, yes. Logos. People understand that. But still, what is Brand Clarity? I still design logos but before that, I need to be clear. Crystal clear. About your business, your brand, and your offerings. In order to create a successful business we need to starts within… a good look under the hood, getting a deep understanding of why your business exists and where you want to go. With my clients, I dig deep, really deep, surfacing important insights about their business. I find out who exactly they are, what their needs are, their pain-points, and goals, who their ideal client is, and who we are up against? All this is the substance of the brand, the core brand DNA. Read more>>