How Rashmi Gill Pivoted From Lawyer to Professional Photographer

‍Please share a brief introduction about yourself and your business:

I am a London born ex Lawyer who now runs her own portrait photography company, Rashmi Gill Photography,in NYC specialising in personal branding and headshots.

Who are your customers?

Every one! Everyone needs photos of themselves, their brand, their style so my customers are a diverse set of people from every where and any where.

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

I was a lawyer.

What made you take the leap to start your own business?

I realized that the I was feeling disheartened by being a lawyer - I went into law to help people and realized all i was really helping was the firm make money. I was given the option to stay or leave the firm when they got bought out by another firm so I used that as me chance to take the leap and haven't looked back since!

Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

No! Growing up when I did and being the daughter of immigrant parents, all I thought I should be doing or become is a "professional" which back then meant lawyer, doctor, dentist or engineer.

Take us back to when you first launched your business; what was your marketing strategy to get the word out and did it go as planned?

I had no strategy! I just went out and chatted to people and slowly over time build up a reputation and people started referring me.

What is the biggest challenge you have encountered along the way so far and what have you learned from it?

That I needed to learn the business side of photography! As a creative all i wanted to do was create but I had no idea about creating and building a business. It was only when I met my mentor Sue Bryce and her community that I learnt how to make money and a business from what I create.

What accomplishment are the most proud of to date in your business?

- becoming the official photographer for Madison Square Park in NYC

- having my photo printed in the New York Times

- being published in books and publications 

- having the belief that I can do this!

Do you have any recent wins from the last year that you'd like to celebrate with our community?

I have but I cant share them yet :)

What's next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

I want to expand and possibly hire more photographers. I also want to do more speaking engagements not just about photography but also parts of my personal journey that I feel may be helpful for others.

What is your top productivity tip? 

Don't look at what others do - do what works for you. Also done is better than perfect...I learned that the hard way!

On the flip side, how do you avoid burnout?

I take time out for myself and ask for help when I need it. I also acknowledge when I am tired and get help then too.

What is your approach to work-life balance / integration?

Taking time for me - not as a business owner, not as a mu or wife, but just as me for me and do things that bring me joy.

What is one thing you wish you had known when you started your Entreprenista journey?*

The business side of things from the start. Also having confidence in myself.

Are you a Mamaprenista? If so, please share your best advice for simultaneously managing a business and a family

Oh man!!! It's a juggle but for me getting help from friends, family and if you can caregivers is what has helped me the most. Also get rid of that mum guilt! You're amazing and your kids will see that if you see it in yourself!

What's the one app on your phone you absolutely cannot live without and why?

instagram as thats where I get a lot of my clients. And Canva.

What is your favorite business tool or solution and why?

Canva as I can get so much done on there even on the move

What advice do you have for aspiring Entreprenistas?‍

Have faith in your self, surround your self with people who support you and will be there for you in the good and bad and ask for help. And just do it - don't over think things! You've got this!‍

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