Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Edwards.
Hi Mary, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started my LLC on 12/31/2020, I had no idea what I was doing. I just had this idea which was given to me by a realtor friend and a love for photography and strong desire to run my own business. I hit the ground running learning everything I could about real estate photography. I found books from the library, read whatever I could find for free on the internet, and watched a whole lot of YouTube. Once I felt like I knew enough to give it a try I asked all my friends if I could practice with their house and they kindly let me. I began putting the word out to everyone I knew that I was trying to do this and gradually people (realtors) I knew started giving me a chance. Right from the very first shoot I received very positive feedback and I was thrilled because I had found something I felt I could do that I really enjoyed doing. Over time time, more and more people started calling me for my services. As things got busier I got better. Since then, I have built a full fledged business offering way more than just photography services. I offer video and 3D Tours, and really everything a realtor needs from a professional real estate photographer.
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?
I would say it has mostly been a smooth road to success although I am an eternal optimist. It is very easy for me to see my progress even when it is small or gradual and very hard for me to give up on something I really want.
As you know, we’re big fans of Better Listings Photography. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Better Listings Photography is a full service real estate media company. We provide realtors with all the media they need to market their listings aggressively. I think what sets us apart is the quality and consistency of our products.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
What has worked well for me is connecting with real estate photographers from around the country. People are very happy to help when you are not their direct competitor. They are easily found in different Facebook groups for Real Estate Photographers.
