Today we’d like to introduce you to LaJoy Frierson.
Hi LaJoy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey of photography began as child with just the simple appreciation for photographs, from family photos to fashion magazines! As an adult, mother and wife like most I would enjoyed capturing memories of my kiddos and life moments but just on a very basic level. After a losing my daughter to cancer and later going through a divorce, I realized I had no true hobbies. My family always came first. So I decided to purchase a camera and just started shooting! I soon became eager to learn more about photography and how to become better. I had fell in love with my new hobby, it became a passion of mine. Within a short time people began to appreciate my work and was willing to pay. I officially began to turn my passion to profit and birthed LJ Grand Photography. The journey has been amazing with ups and downs but very rewarding. Prior to COVID I was able to pay it forward by volunteering my services to Devos families with terminally ill children. I was so grateful to capture family photos for families that I could relate too. I felt as though my photography has a purpose greater than myself. Today business doing well in the city of Muskegon Heights. The journey began in 2018 and I still plan to grow, be creative, and learn new ways of photography. My general hashtag with my work that I share is #ilovewhatido because I really love what I do!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to the photography business has not been easy, and I have always been very transparent about that aspect. I started my business because I love photography but I had to learn business along the way, and that’s where the road gets rough! I’ve bumped my head many times, but my love for photography is what keeps me going.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a photographer based in Muskegon Michigan. I personally love photographing events/birthday parties/weddings because I get to capture raw in the moment emotions. My studio photography allows me to be more structured and creative. I am most proud of a collaborative piece that was featured in 2024 Artprize. It was of layered photograph of women veterans from Muskegon, Grand Rapids and Detroit. In my line of business I think what sets me apart from others is my work ethic and my true desire to make sure my clients are satisfied.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice for anyone starting out is to genuinely love what you do. You have to love what you do because if you don’t, it will be so much easier to give up. Next I would advise entrepreneurs to learn business and marketing. Early on I wish I knew more about the ins and out of business aspect of things.
Pricing:
- $100 30m shoots
- $175 1hour shoots
- $200+ events
- $300+ seniors
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ljgrandphotography.com/
