How I’m Improving My Business with a Backing Small Businesses Grant
A few months ago, I shared some very exciting news with my newsletter subscribers and on social media. In case you missed it, I am one of 500 proud recipients of a $10,000 Backing Small Businesses Grant presented by American Express, in partnership with Main Street America! Since being notified in June, I’ve been hard at work putting the funding to use.
Backing Small Businesses Grant
The Backing Small Businesses grant was established as a means of supporting small businesses through, “…building community, supporting their economic viability, or bolstering meaningful change.” I went out on a limb and submitted my application, and to my surprise, I was chosen! I intend to enhance my business with videography education & equipment, giving you even more captivating ways to capture your memories!
Continuing Education
I immediately put the funds to use by investing in multiple education components. I signed up for the Education Blueprint course with photography educator Sabrina Gebhardt to help me pioneer a new facet to my business. It’s been a game changer! I’m also looking forward to an upcoming photography workshop in San Antonio with Ashley Mosier. Last but not least, I invested in videography education! While I’m not new to videography, I’m a huge believer in constantly seeking ways to better myself in my craft. So, I headed to D.C. for an in-person videography mentorship with Colie James where I met the sweetest family and put together a sentimental video from our session!
Preserving Family Memories Through Videography
Remember when we were kids & family memories were preserved through grainy camcorder footage? As a photographer, it’s not a secret that photos have a special place in my heart. However, there’s something special in a different way when it comes to video. Imagine how sweet it will be for this family to relive these memories in 5 years. As parents, we know all too well how quickly kids shoot up in height and develop new interests. I like to imagine them watching the video, and they’ll reminisce over that day together as a family. Videography is more than a 3-minute clip, its a time capsule!
Family Video Session
For this D.C. family video session, we devoted roughly two hours to capturing an afternoon of them in their home and out & about. They played games, baked together, the kids gave me tours of their bedrooms, and we visited a local park for more family fun. Afterwards, my mentor & educator, Colie, sat down as I edited the footage and compiled a 3 minute video for them. I gained so much insight through this experience & am so grateful for the funding to do it! Wanna see how it turned out? Take a look:
Future Plans for Kellie Rochelle Photography
Because I’m a recipient of the Backing Small Businesses Grant, I’m also eligible to apply for further funding. Should I be fortunate enough to be chosen a second time, it would allow me to offer education for photographers through mentoring as well as a podcast! My photography bestie and I have countless ideas for episodes to record, which would also be a resource for fellow photogs. Wish me luck as I begin the application process!
North Dakota Family Travel Photography + Videography
Hey, I’m Kellie, a family, senior, and brand photographer serving Williston, ND and beyond! I provide my clients authentic, heartfelt, inspirational photos that tell their stories through my lens. Are you envisioning photos that celebrate a special occasion in a unique way? Let’s make it happen! Take a look at my portfolio and let’s chat about how we can make your dream photos a reality. Want some inspiration in the meantime? Be sure to follow me on Pinterest or come say hi on IG, FB, and TikTok!
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