We had the good fortune of connecting with Eli Mabli and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Eli, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I would have to say that their isn’t much to balance and that is what keeps me focused on being successful. I do not have a wife, kids, or any dependents at all. I do some things for myself but my work is my hobby and I enjoy doing it. This means that I can kill two birds with one stone.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart from others in my field of photography is my knowledge of how to run a business from my previous line of work running small businesses for others. Many creatives with amazing talent fall short on this.
Additionally, specific to photography I set myself apart by constantly trying to understand light and how to manage/create it. Also how to interact with clients to get the best shots.
None of this was or is easy. I would say most if not all the time running a successful business is hard work and you will hear many small business owners say so. We have to overcome everything from unsatisfied clients, loss of critical business assets, keeping all of our bills paid, and still having enough money to live a good life. The only way to get through it is forward. If you keep working hard you will always make progress.
I have learned not to rely on anyone or anything to guarantee your success. If their are people who can help you accomplish your goals that is wonderful! But if you have to do things yourself then there is no excuse that can keep you in business. The world of business is a difficult place to navigate and it does not always play fair.
I want the world to know that hard working small business owners can bring you amazing quality at affordable prices and still be extremely professional even without a big company keeping you in line by leveraging your employment against you.
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?
I would take them to some of my favorite low key spots. Places like good bbq, great views, and buzzing areas with a lot of culture like Deep Ellum or the Magnolia Strip. We would definitely get some drinks at a rooftop bar, enjoy some live music at a small venue, go see some comedy shows, fly some drones near downtown, got to some museums. The options are limitless really.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would have to say that my network of friends and my family are a big impact on my success. People see what I do and lend me words of encouragement and positive feedback. I specifically have to shout out my assistant Brista as she has lightened the load significantly and allowed me to work harder on the things only I can do. Additionally, I have to thank my clients for supporting me by referring me to others.
My Uncle Deron made a huge impact on me when he got me started with my first camera and I have wanted to do well for him as he has believed in me since day one.
Website: www.EliMabli.com
Instagram: elimabli.photos
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EliMabliPhotography/
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/eli-mabli-photography-dallas
Image Credits
Every photo was taken by me with the exception of my photo which was shot by Walter Melvin of Affala Studios and White Tiare Weddings. He is a very talented photographer/videographer.