Nicola Levine, Founder of Nicola Levine Photography
Name: Nicola Levine
Founder: Nicola Levine Photography
What's your elevator pitch? (Ie. In one sentence, what do you do?)
I am a branding and portrait photographer who collaborates with female creative entrepreneurs, health & wellness and life coaches to help them create personalized on-brand images they can use to visually share their story and authentically connect with their communities.
What's your story? Share how you got to where you are and WHY it is you do what you do.
I am a branding and portrait photographer on Chicago's North Shore. While I have enjoyed capturing pictures of families for the past 8 years, branding photography—particularly with female creative entrepreneurs in the health and wellness fields—has become a personal passion of mine.
These two worlds collided for me when a major health event of my own ultimately gave me the courage to step away from my career as a Speech-Language Pathologist, step out of my comfort zone and start my own business as a photographer. This has allowed me to relate to other women who are starting out or making career changes. I value connecting with other women and supporting them as they find their own path, doing something that empowers them, lifts them up, and gives them joy.
What does BEING a FoundHer mean to you?
Being a FoundHer means taking ownership of my life and creativity, building something meaningful, and continuously evolving in ways that empower me and bring joy.
It also means being part of a community of like-minded, strong women who inspire and uplift each other as we pursue our passions, creating a powerful network of inspiration and growth.
How do you support other female founders and women in business?
As women in business, it is important to consistently show up, share our stories and connect with our communities.
As a 40-something mom and solopreneur myself, I understand it is not always easy to be the face of your business, so an important part of my approach is investing time in getting to know my clients personally, so they feel comfortable and confident when they step in front of the camera.
I create a safe and supportive space so their personality and strengths can shine, creating empowering images they are excited to share with their community.
What are three podcasts you listen to that have helped you with your business?
Dear FoundHER
The Business of Personal Brand Photography
Liberty Road
Business by the Books
What is ONE BOOK that you would recommend every female business owner read?
"Building a Story Brand" by Donald Miller
What lesson or skill did you take with you from a prior job to help you succeed in your role today?
I have my Masters in Speech Pathology and previously worked in the hospital and day rehab setting providing cognitive-communication and swallowing therapy for patients with acquired brain injury.
While the skills of a speech pathologist don't directly align with the technical aspects of photography, the interpersonal, communication (non-verbal and verbal) skills, patience and flexibility I needed as a therapist enhance my ability to connect with my photography clients.
Those skills give me an organized but adaptable and laid back approach to sessions, creating a positive and stress free space to encourage personalities to shine which helps to authentically shares their story and journey.
What are three actionable tips you would give with other women who want to start a business or are just getting started?
Build your network. Find events or groups to build a supportive group of business owners. It can be lonely owning your own business, so having others who understand and support you, and who you can trust is so valuable.
Balance between your personal and business life can be hard. Block time in your schedule for yourself and family so you can stay energized, efficient and mindful in life.
Invest in education - keep evolving and growing in your field and the services you offer.
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