by Nancy E. Hassel, American Pet Professionals. Weekly featured APP Member
Welcome to our weekly featured member of American Pet Professionals! This week, July 13, 2015 we feature Richie Schwartz of Pets Photography Studio!
Check out our fun Q&A interview with Richie of Pet’s Photography Studio and his experience in the Pet Industry:
“I am a pet photographer. I have a storefront studio, but specialize in working on location at other pet businesses. I have a portable studio that I set up in pet stores for their customer’s convenience. I also specialize in photographing pet events and creating fundraisers for animal rescue groups.”
How long have you been in the Pet Industry?
I have been working with pets since the 1970s
What drew you to the Pet Industry?
Simply put. I love animals!!
The best thing about your experience so far?
Everyday is like a “take your pet to work” day.
Are you a solo petrepreneur or do you have employees?
I have employees. The number varies according to the season.
Do you remember the last time you had a weekend off?
My busiest workdays are Saturday and Sunday.
What is your advice to a young person joining the pet industry?
Take some business classes before you hang out your shingle, your passion alone will not make you successful
Your favorite thing about your customers (i.e. pet parents).
I am a pet lover. Pet owners are pet lovers and so there is a special bond because of that .
What is the best thing you have done for your business to help you grow?
There is no one best thing I have done for my business, but certainly one at the top of the list was to join Long Island Pet Professionals (now American Pet Professional) 5 years ago.
When did you realize that this industry was more fun/rewarding/compassionate (add your own!) than a previous industry you may have worked in?
I knew as a child that I wanted to work with animals. My first ever photo shoot with a dog simply sealed the deal.
If you weren’t in the pet industry – what other profession would you love to do?
I am a pet photographer but before that I specialized in people photography, so that is what I would be doing.
Favorite book/movie/TV show?
My Favorite TV show is SharkTank
Most amazing place you have been to on planet earth?
I used to live on Kauai, Hawaii and that rates as my most amazing place I have been to.
Favorite meal?
Sushi, sushi, sushi. Did I mention sushi?
When you were a kid, and someone asked, what did you want to be when you grow up? What was your answer?
A lawyer or veterinarian.
Favorite color?
Purple
Your favorite or most inspirational quote?
Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life. Confucius
Richie is located on Long Island in NY and can be reached at: info@PetsPhotography.com – and check out Pets Photography Studio and see how you can be inspired and motivated to run your own business!]]>