Maxine Evans is a Los Angeles based professional photographer specializing in Newborn, Baby & Maternity Portraiture. Her photography career has spanned over two decades. Maxine started out in the tourism industry & eventually transitioned to portrait photography. I met Maxine through social media & was immediately blown away by her photos!
Mother’s Day is coming up & as I look back at my daughter’s baby pictures from 8 years ago, I remember like it was yesterday, all of those sleepless nights & busy days. While I do have several nice candid shots of my baby girl, it would have been nice to get a professional newborn photo done.
As I’ve gotten to know Maxine, not only does she take beautiful portraits, but she is a great businesswoman, who has gained valuable insight & life lessons over the years. Although she does not have children, her business is like her baby (and babies are her business!) – so in my mind, she qualifies for a Real Mom of the SFV spotlight. 🙂
Please meet Valley business owner, Maxine Evans!
How/why did you begin your business?
Maxine: I opened my photography business in 1998. Although I had been doing freelance work since my mid-twenties, I began doing tourism and eco tourism photography way back when they only had brochures to advertise hotels and resorts. It seemed like a natural progression from photographing people enjoying their vacations to portrait photography. I opened my newborn and baby studio just a few years ago when we decided to make our home in Agoura Hills.
What is one tip or piece of advice that you would give to other female entrepreneurs?
Maxine: My advice would be to be patient! Starting a new business in this area is not for the faint of heart. It seems no matter what your business offers, it’s a saturated market. However that doesn’t mean you can’t be successful. Stand strong! The best way to be a success is to stand out by offering something your competitors don’t, whether it’s your outstanding customer service or your special skills. Whatever it may be, make sure to market it, which will make your business different than the person down the street offering the same product or service.
I also want to add, be legit. Get your business license, get insurance and collect and pay sales tax. If you want to be a professional, be professional in your business. Your clients will appreciate it!
My only other advice speaks directly to women. Unfortunately I feel like we are still in a man’s world or at least they’d like to think so! But we know different and we know the passion and drive that it takes to be successful. Empower, be strong and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t!
What do you like best about having a business in the San Fernando Valley?
Maxine: I love everything about doing business here. My business is within a couple minutes of my home. I get to live and work in this beautiful area while still being able to serve clients from all over the Los Angeles basin, San Fernando and Conejo Valleys.
If there was one thing you wish you knew before you began your business, what would that be?
Maxine: Oh gosh, I wish someone told me how much work and how expensive running a small business is! In my opinion, in addition to a great product, you have to love what you do to become successful at small business. Your clients will see your passion and want to come back to you over and over.
I love Maxine’s business recommendations, especially her tip on how to market yourself so that you stand out from the crowd. Her perspective on owning a photography business & being legit in what is typically viewed as a male dominated industry is insightful.
Maxine specializes in custom newborn & baby photography, creating stunning portraits that will be cherished for generations to come. Look how sweet these precious little ones look!
For more information, check out her website & don’t forget to “like” her Facebook page so that you can get the latest updates!
Disclosure: No monetary compensation was received for this post. The image shown in this post is used with permission. As always, my opinions are 100% my own.
Maxine Evans says
Thank you for the feature! It’s an honor to be among all the other great women here.
xoxo Maxine