Rising Stars: Meet Donna Sweetin of Highlands Ranch

Today we’d like to introduce you to Donna Sweetin.

Hi Donna, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

Absolutely! I’m a portrait photographer serving clients in the South Denver area. I actually started my photography business on a dare from my best friend. I had been working, promoting a conference that eventually ended, and was thinking about my next steps. She called and basically told me that I had a gift and needed to use it! So I said I would try it for one year, and if I didn’t like it after one year, I would stop doing it. I worried that taking something I loved, and making it a business might spoil the fun. However, my photography business went great from the very first month, and this year is my ninth year of a very successful, satisfying career!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I would say relatively smooth. Most of the struggles were in learning successful business strategies and thinking like a business person. I think many creative business owners struggle with the more practical tasks of running a business. There was a big learning curve as a solopreneur, getting educated on websites, CRM’s, accounting, social media, and all the other things that make a business run well.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My specialties include professional headshots, high school seniors, families and events. I also love supporting non-profits that have an important mission. As far as what sets me apart, I take a personal interest in getting to know my clients well, and do the extra work to bring their vision for photos to life. My business is relationship driven, which means I may initially meet a client who needs headshots, but the next year they have a son or daughter who needs senior photos, and down the road they need photos for their vow renewal. I feel honored when I have the opportunity to photograph my clients throughout the important events of their life!

Any big plans?
I’m always thinking of new projects and offerings to bring to my clients. Lately I’ve been thinking about including photo session options for couples and seniors in their later years. Often, couples and seniors have few opportunities to have professional photos taken after their wedding photos. I believe we should be celebrating our relationships throughout our many years!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sweetinphotography.com
• Instagram: @sweet_moments1213