Q&A with Matt Larson, Founder of Simply Visual Photography & Design
Matt Larson, founder of Simply Visual Photography & Design
Matt Larson is six years into a successful run as the founder of Simply Visual Photography & Design. Whether it’s ads, logos, professional photography, family portraits or anything else related to graphic design or photography, Matthew’s 15+ years of experience make Simply Visual a top option for anyone in need of these services. Matt’s entrepreneurial experience shows through his advice in this interview. Read on to learn more.
1. Tell us a bit about your company, Simply Visual Photography & Design.
Simply Visual Photography & Design, LLC was founded in April of 2011 and is a company that provides creative services to both businesses as well as the general public. Our clients range from families wanting portraits, models looking to beef up their portfolios, all the way to businesses looking for product photography and advertising. At the present moment, I’m in the process of expanding Simply Visual to create a full media production company that encompasses much more than just photography and design services.
2. What gave you the idea for your business and how did it start?
I’ve had the idea to start up my own business since I was a child, and knew as early as 10 years old that someday I would own a graphic arts company (though at that time, my goal was to own one in New York City). Even as a kid I always had a very entrepreneurial mindset and wanted to do something that was artistic, but on my own terms. After many years of college and working for very little pay, I finally decided to take a leap of faith and turn that dream into a reality. Glad I did!
3. What’s your favorite thing about your job?
I love getting to use my artistic abilities to help those who need my services. This job allows me to wake up each morning with a smile on my face, knowing I get to do something for a living that makes me happy. I was never happy working for other companies, because it seemed as though I was working for someone else’s vision, rather than my own.
4. What are your keys to making yourself productive?
It’s all about being responsible with your time and energy. I tend to keep myself active by making sure potential and past clients remember my business still exists. I’m constantly coming up with news way to encourage people to come to my business, which includes introducing new design or photography techniques, doing promotional sales, keeping the word out there, etc.
5. Tell us one long-term goal in your career.
As was mentioned above, I’m currently expanding my business to become a major media production company that goes far beyond photography and design. One of the major goals is to introduce video as well as audio production, which is already in the works. I’ve also been working on setting up my new business website with a store that clients can use to purchase photography, design work, and, in time, even clothing and a fragrances.
6. What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned through the course of your career?
One of the biggest lessons I learned is how important it is to sit potential clients down well before a photo shoot occurs and discuss absolutely every term and condition with them. Even though I know how photography and design businesses operate, that doesn’t necessarily mean my clients do, too. Apparently many people assume they understand the basic laws that we entrepreneurs know, and are shocked to find out they really don’t. So word to the wise, make sure the clients are made 100% aware of what your business will do for them so there aren’t any questions later on.
7. What advice would you give to others aspiring to succeed in your field?
If you want to be taken seriously as an entrepreneur, you need to be professional, educated and responsible. My advice would be to learn everything you can about business, marketing, money management and basic law before ever starting your company. Another thing is that it’s imperative to have clear and concise plan with written policies in place, as well as enough money in savings. Otherwise you could end up having trouble down the road. Photography and design businesses are expensive not just to start up, but also to maintain. Make sure you spend the money you earn wisely.
8. What are your favorite things to do outside of work?
I love writing and am currently writing a novel (when I have the time). On top of that, I’m a bit of a movie buff and have an extensive collection of movies on DVD, Blu-Ray, Digital and even VHS.
9. Name a few influential books you’ve read and/or websites you keep up
with that you’d recommend to readers.
My favorite websites include:
