Founder Interview
Theresa Covatto
If someone was going to start their own business, I would say start with an investment and savings account. No matter the business, any new business is going to cost money before…
So nice to meet you! First off, what’s your name? Tell our readers a bit about yourself—where you’re from originally and where you live now.
I'm Theresa Covatto, a photographer from Western New York. I was born and raised in the Buffalo/Niagara Falls area. I started taking photography classes in high school and fell in love with the art of taking photographs and learning the mechanics of the camera. I started on a 35mm film camera that my dad had and have grown my collection of cameras. I now own my own photography business specializing in wedding and event photography.
Tell us one thing you love about where you live now?
I love how historic my area is. It is very iconic from living 15 minutes away from Niagara Falls or Buffalo.
Tell us a little bit more about what your company does and how it started? How does it help your customers?
My company is Theresa Covatto Photography. I got started right out of college with my first wedding in 2010. I am able to shoot any type of portraiture or event ranging from newborn to engagement, family sessions, weddings, even live music events. I am able to shoot year round because of my adaptability to the environment.
If someone wants to start a business, what advice would you give them?
If someone was going to start their own business, I would say start with an investment and savings account. No matter the business, any new business is going to cost money before it will earn money. With photography, the investment starts with the camera, camera supplies, computer and software for editing. From there comes advertising and spreading the word of your business which may include renting a booth at a bridal show, for example.
What was one feedback from a happy customer/client that you won't forget about?
One piece of happy feedback I got from a client was during a family photoshoot. It was at a beach and their daughter was not happy for the majority of the time of shooting. I was able to time my photos during her happy moments and when the couple received their photos they were completely shocked by how many happy photos they got of their little girl to keep.
Where do you see your company in the future?
I see my photography business only growing and doing more events. Weddings are my favorite to shoot but I am just as energetic about shooting a family or live music event.
What is the biggest misconception about your industry?
I would say the biggest misconception about my industry is that there will always be someone in my client's family who likes photography and can shoot the same thing. There is a difference between someone who does photography as a hobby and someone who is a professional. I have my degree in Photography and know the inner workings of my camera, which many hobbyists do not.
What has been one of your biggest struggle building your business and how did you deal with it?
One of the biggest struggles in my business has just been building and growing it. Going from doing shoots for my friends to get the word out, to booking events, hasn't been the easiest journey.
Who was your favorite music artist and athlete growing up?
Like any millennial, I listened to Britney Spears, NSYNC and The Backstreet Boys. I do have an appreciation for The Beatles, Johnny Cash and Frank Sinatra.
Where can our readers learn more about you and your company?
My website is theresacovattophotography.com, and I can be found on Instagram @TheresaCovattoPhotography and Facebook at facebook.com/TheresaCovattoPhotography
