We had the good fortune of connecting with San Nguyen-Tran and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi San, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Well for starters, I was overwhelmed. I had zero intentions of becoming a business woman. I had limiting beliefs about starting a business since I was groomed to learn the importance of security and the vitality of a recession-proof career. Whether it was a healthcare worker or a teacher, I was complacent working for someone else as long as it meant having security. All this came from a first-generation mindset.

One day, I told my husband I felt unfulfilled at my full-time job. I couldn’t be creative and it was eating me alive. I started to reflect what I adored and it finally dawned on me how much I loved photographing timeless, unscripted moments. I had conversations with my husband about buying a camera and seeing where it could take me, but it didn’t go anywhere. Sure enough, he purchased my first gear. He believed in me when I didn’t think I could. Next thing you know, one idea unraveled and San Nguyen-Tran Photography became a small business.

From the start, I knew organizational skills mattered. Before taking on paid clients, I practiced my craft on models, learned the ins-and-outs of being a good administrator, and researched endless hours on how to create a legal business. Mainstreaming my business with automated workflows were also importance and above all, I valued the concept of “investing in yourself”. As I reflect, my thought process was learning the requirements to kick-start a legal and successful business.

Starting a business is a mental challenge. However, with drive, consistency and dedication, I’m fulfilled and happy that my business has evolved me in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I love capturing genuine, unscripted and natural moments for couples and families. I get excited meeting all walks of life and connecting with others before, during, and after a session. I want my clients to feel that I’m their friend, not just a photographer. I am most proud to learn about my clients and their love, and sharing their story with world captured by images.

Long nights, continued dedication, and a good support system are all factors that have gotten me where I am professionally. It hasn’t been easy, but learning to take breaks to adjust my mindset helps me overcome challenges. In fact, two lessons I’ve learned since starting a small business is to give myself grace and to live in the moment.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Let’s hang out at Bishops Arts District. There’s great food, cute boutiques, and great people out and about!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a huge shout-out to my husband. Without his love and encouragement, I wouldn’t have been able to push past my fears to see what I can contribute to the world.

Website: www.sntranphotography.com

Instagram: Sntran.photography

Facebook: SNTran.photography

Image Credits
Headshot by Mdee_photo

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