This month we are speaking with Rebecca Hicks, owner of Rebecca Hicks PDX Photography. This local Southwest Portland Photographer and Mom of two, helps other families capture life's moments with fun, affor
Phil: Thanks for meeting with us today. A photography business is an interesting business to have with all the equipment, editing, and scheduling needed. When did you decide to be a photographer?
Rebecca: After my daughter was born I got a nice camera and I started to fall in love with being behind the lens. The more I took pictures of my friend's children while out on trips or play dates the more they encouraged me to keep going with it.
Phil: There are so many types of photos that people need, did you have a specialty when you started?
Rebecca: I started with families, and then those families helped me build my business by word of mouth. A lot of people really appreciate that I am a long time local resident of Maplewood and know great spots to shoot all over Portland. My business has really grown gradually over the years a
s I have taken on different types of events such as weddings. Last year the High School Senior photos were a huge part of my business. I still love interacting with families and their kids for their photo sessions, but the high school Seniors are silly and goofy and that's a lot of fun too!
Phil: If someone is interested in getting their family photos taken, how can they make the most out of the experience?
Rebecca: Someone who comes to a photo shoot and puts their full trust in me, is relaxed, and wants to have a good time, is the client that has the best experience. When clients aren't themselves or try to make their kids do things for the photo session, they have a more stressful time than when they let me take care of everything and then go get ice cream afterwards. A lot of the younger kids have to be bribed with ice cream haha! Getting family photos can seem daunting but I walk clients through every part of the process.
Phil: How has your business been affected by the pandemic?
Rebecca: In the first few months, many events like weddings and Bar Mitzvahs were canceled, but over time, clients have seen how photo sessions can be done safely at a distance. During that time I was able to do 127 free porch photo sessions for neighbors, so that was fun! My favorite part of the business is being face to face with people and luckily, we are always outdoors and I can keep my distance from them and wear my mask. I love meeting everyone in our area and can't wait to meet more amazing families this year!
More Info at www.rebeccahickspdxphotography.com - 503.781.1435