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

Hi Cheryl, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
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!!

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
There are so many incredible photographers out there so I’m very humbled when clients choose to work with me! But I couldn’t have grown my business without my amazing clients! I have never really done any advertising so roughly 98% of my clients have come as a referral! This to me is truly the greatest feeling as I know that I’ve done something right for them to send their friends/family to me! I love when I get to meet new clients and love even more when my clients become friends! Many of my clients start out as a newborn client and it’s just so amazing when they come back each year and I get to watch their little one’s grow up!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There are so many amazing places to go in San Diego! Some of my favorite spots Balboa Park, Fish Tacos from South Beach in OB, La Jolla to check out the beach, seals, Prospect…and then eat at Piatti’s! Take a hike at Torrey Pines and paddle boarding in Mission Beach!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Well, first and foremost I have to thank my husband for allowing me to follow this passion! Without him I certainly wouldn’t be here! And if it weren’t for my best friend Simi, I would have never even thought about this as a career…but she had faith in me and pushed me to begin this journey! And there are so many photographers that have encouraged/supported/educated me along the way: Chrissy Walther, Tarah Sweeney, Rachel Vanoven and so many more!

Website: www.cherylpolkphotography.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/cherylpolkphotography
Facebook: www.facebook.com/cherylpolkphotography

Image Credits
Cheryl Polk Photography

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