Portrait Simple – “Best place I've ever worked.”

Pros

Portrait Simple is not like other photography chains. They take training, customer satisfaction, the art of photography, and employee satisfaction very seriously. They create an atmosphere conducive to learning and it really feels like a family environment. I've had so many great relationships with my peers over the years, and I've heard over and over from the photographers that it's the "best job ever." It's not a nationwide chain yet, so there is a familiarity and receptiveness from the owner that you don't really get with larger companies.

Cons

The volume has a very cyclical nature, so if you are a photographer paid hourly, your income will be irregular throughout the year. Hours are abundant during the holiday season and Easter. Slower periods like January and the summer months mean much fewer hours are available, so many photographers have to find a second job during these times. However there's always the chance to grow with the company if you're interested in management, in which case your pay becomes more predictable.

Advice to Senior Management

Since I am basically a part of management I can't really offer advice. I started with Portrait Simple 7 years ago as a photographer and have since held the titles assistant manager, studio manager, and now manager of marketing at the corporate office. I work directly under the owner and I still have the same faith in our brand as I did on day 1. My advice would be to do all that you can to maintain the same standards for each individual client and photographer experience as the company grows (something I personally plan on working very hard at).