William Ingram

Name:

William Ingram

Business:

KuteKidz Photography

Web site:

www.KuteKidzphotography.co.uk

Years in business:

2

Number of businesses:

2

I was made redundant in 2006 which forced me into starting my own business. I decided to pursue my passion for photography setting up Kute Kidz Photography, a service that provides families with novelty montage pictures of babies in their own home.

I’ve been interested in taking pictures since my schooldays; my great grand farther even ran his own photography shop in Newcastle so you could say it’s a passion that runs in the family. I previously worked for Northumbria Police as a photographer before finally being forced to go it alone.

But I haven’t looked back. I really enjoy running my own business, especially the flexibility and freedom that comes with it. At the age of 46 I can take holidays when I want rather than being restricted by an employer.

It’s not easy though, there’s a lot of work involved. To run your business you need complete dedication and commitment to what you’re doing. In simple terms I feel I’ve got nothing to lose, but everything to gain. I’m passionate about my service because I believe in the concept.

I’ve made mistakes in the past but it’s important to learn from these. One such mistake was spending money on advertising the business without a second thought. I found that this wasn’t the most effective way of promoting my service.

However, alternative methods such as conducting marketing research and actually showing my photography to people proved to be a great way to drum up interest.

Lack of finance has also been a challenge throughout. I’ve found that little business improvements can make the world of difference though. For instance I discovered how to make the business number one on Google for a number of phrases which has really helped generate interest through driving people to my website.

My business is still very young so landmark achievements have been minimal. However I feel just getting my own company up and running has been a major feat in its self, and I take great pride in what I do.

Whilst I have ambition, I am also realistic. I realise my limitations but am confident enough to seek help. My family has been a fantastic source of moral support and has encouraged me since day one.

This isn’t my only business, I also run a driving school part-time which I also enjoy and helps pay the bills.

I think the secret behind being a good entrepreneur is to maintain a belief in what you’re doing and be totally aware of your own market. I find it useful to constantly evaluate my business always considering possible improvements or successes.

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