Today we’d like to introduce you to Mahfam Braithwaite.
Hi Mahfam, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
I grew up in Fredericksburg, VA, and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech. I have a husband, two fur-babies (Simba and Dumbo), and a parrot. You can probably guess that I’m a huge Disney fan!
I’ve always enjoyed taking pictures but never really took it seriously as a career until a few years ago. Before then, I only saw it as a hobby – a hobby that I very much enjoyed, nevertheless. I would always borrow my mom’s camera to take pictures of friends and family whenever I had time off from my day-to-day job working in the Dental industry.
When I first met my husband, he would often tell me how talented he thought I was and was constantly encouraging me to start my own photography business. For our first Christmas together, he bought me my very own camera which I use to this day. I don’t think I’ll ever let it go! My husband is my biggest cheerleader. From that moment on, I’ve tried my hardest to make a successful go of being a photographer. I make sure that I stay relevant on everything related to photography – attending classes, reading articles, and of course, taking photographs!
I started my photography business in 2018 and haven’t looked back since. I am also an influencer and digital marketing manager, working with other companies to improve their social media and increase their engagement. Companies have started to now reach out inquiring about social media coaching too!
I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There have been some challenges along the way. The first hurdle was attracting clients, which is very difficult when you have minimal experience. Luckily, I had a lot of friends and family that allowed me to take pictures of them in the beginning, and therefore gain that valuable experience. Those same friends and family members referred me to other people they knew and my client base has continued to grow ever since. Word-of-mouth is so important in this industry.
The second challenge was (and still is) trying to run a successful business alongside your regular job. It’s important that I dedicate time during the weeknights and at weekends to ensure my clients are happy and I make it a priority to do so. I hope at some point I will be so successful that I can concentrate on photography full time.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I mostly specialize in weddings, portraits, and other events, but am always willing to take on new opportunities and challenges. I also work with local businesses, taking photographs and managing their social media. My photography style is “light and airy”, and I love chasing the sun.
My proudest moment so far was reaching 10,000 followers on my photography page on Instagram. I was so excited when I hit that milestone. I’m not stopping there though! My follower count is now almost 13,000 and I’m so excited to see how far I can go.
My clients recognize me as friendly and outgoing with a constant smile on my face. I believe that all my clients should receive first-class treatment and it’s my goal to provide that.
What matters most to you? Why?
My job is to capture some of the most joyful, happy, and biggest moments. I want to ensure my clients have a smile on their faces during the entire experience. That means delivering exceptional customer service throughout, from that first contact to the final product.
Contact Info:
- Email: mahfamphotography@gmail.com
- Website: www.mahfamphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mahfamphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MahfamPhotography/
