We had the good fortune of connecting with Nika Williams, MBA, MS and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nika, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
So it’s funny… because my photography business is the 4th business I’ve started. I honestly wasn’t passionate about the others… I was ultimately trying to establish supplemental income. However, since I was a kid I have ALWAYS loved photography. So when I decided to pursue it as a business, it was much bigger than making money. I love meeting and interacting with people… and I love the reactions of others when they see photos I’ve captured for them. Even as a child when I’d bring my camera to school… it was always fun seeing the photos once they were developed (I probably just aged myself, huh? Ha!). Being able to freeze time and share those amazing memories sooo many years later… it’s a win!! Long story short… my goal was to establish a business that didn’t feel like work. I do have a full-time career… and I’m okay with going from my 8-hour shift straight to my studio… because I have fun! Photography is my breath of fresh air.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My clients for sure! Christmas season is usually my busiest time of year, but it’s also my favorite holiday… so I always look forward to coming up with new and unique ideas for my sets. When I launched in 2020, I had a feeling it would be crazy… and it was! So in 2021 I prepared for yet another busy season, right? Done. So when 2022 began I said, “Okay… I’ll get a break now because Valentine’s Day is usually slow [because so many just took holiday photos], and I should pick up around March for late senior photos again, family pics, etc.” Umm, no way! ALL of 2022 was busy! It was bananas! But equivalently a blessing! And I owe all of my skills & success to God! I had the most photo sessions booked EVER last year! Plus 5 weddings & 3 corporate assignments! (Keep in mind… I never intended to add weddings to my repertoire. But I’m so happy I did!) 2022 truly set the bar for 2023. So let’s go, current & new clients! I AM READY!!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My best friend is from Saginaw, MI (lol)… so she’d know where to go. But if I were considering someone who’d NEVER been to Saginaw? There are several great places to grab food & even treats, for sure! I’d recommend checking out Delicious Sweets in SVRC Marketplace or Fashion Square Mall, Robbie D’s on N. Michigan Avenue, Big O’s Barbecue on Bay Road, El Farolito in SVRC Marketplace, Tia’s Soul on Holland Avenue… and if you’re looking for brunch or a cozy, picturesque spot to eat… The Artisan Urban Bistro on Hancock Street. A visitor should also check out the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum on the BEAUTIFUL campus of Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU) [Shameless Plug lol: One should also check out the amazing graduate AND undergraduate programs offered at SVSU: www.SVSU.edu/GoGrad or www.SVSU.edu/go the Castle Museum on Federal Avenue for local history, and Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland in the fun village of Frankenmuth! Hanging out? Check out Hamilton Street in Old Town Saginaw! Bar Hop from The Pub, to JB Meinberg’s, to Retro Rocks, & more… you’ll find a good time with great eats, drinks, & music, too! 

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
It’s a must I recognize my husband, parents, children, & family for ALWAYS rooting for me. As mentioned… I’ve had a few other businesses. So the fact that I’ve had their support after starting yet another is major! From understanding I have to be away for photography assignments, or tucked away somewhere editing… their understanding and support is much appreciated. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them! Mentorship… definitely Phil Eich (and he probably doesn’t even realize it lol). Phil is a veteran photographer & storyteller from my area. His photography skill, mindset, personality, attention to detail, and ability to create such captivating stories about others… IMPECCABLE! Phil has blessed me with tidbits of knowledge and encouragement that has helped so much! Not to mention he provided me with some VERY amazing tools to add to sessions I schedule! It would behoove ANY aspiring photographer or writer to follow him! Check out Phil’s site at https://storyville.substack.com/.

Website: www.SNAPTphotography.com

Instagram: http://instagram.com/shesnaptphotography

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SheSnapT

Image Credits
SNAPT Photography LLC

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