Interview Feature with CrystalPhotography

  How did you come up with your shop name?

At first I was going to go with Crystal Zacharias Photography, but to me that didn't have the ring to it that Crystal Gayle Photography did. I've never much cared for my middle name, but it sure has come in handy!

Why did you start your Etsy shop?

I decided to sell on etsy when I was looking for another avenue to sell my photography online. One that wasn't filled with just photographers, but other types of creations as well.

How long have you been a crafter?

I've always enjoyed photography, but it wasn't until I went digital that I could get into it more. Always seemed I was using so much film and to develop every photo. I've been digital for nearly six years now, but enjoyed it long before then. Really hard to say exactly how long I've been at it, but my photography has been available to the public for two years now.

Does your shop reflect your personal style?

My shop reflects my love for nature. Ask my mom...I never enjoyed being outside when I was growing up, but now, I see things differently. I look for the things that many people fail to see, or often will miss. I've been asked, "You're taking a picture of that dirty window?" Sure the window was dirty, but amoungst all the dirty windows, they failed to see that there were different designs in each piece of glass, and one had a nice reflection in it. 

 

Where do you draw inspiration from for your products?

I'm inspired a lot by the beautiful nature that God has created and try to capture it in a unique way that others maybe won't view it as. I've also been inspired by other photograpers and their works!

Is there a piece in your shop that was hard for you to part with?

Actually no. Simply because I can reprint any item, any time I want to. However, my favorite would have to be one of my newest pieces called Red Leaves. I love the colors in this and that it's so focused on just the leaves, but the background sort of depicts the fall season.

Care to share an idea or item you hope to have in your shop in the future?

I'm always looking for new ideas to do with my photography, other than selling prints. I recently brought out a line of metal prints. They are currently only available as a special order but there's so much that can be done with them. Instead of printing on paper, the photo is put onto metal. There are four different finishes available, many different sizes, and then I can also get different display types for them. It's really neat but really hard to show on a photo what it is! You almost have to see it to see how cool it really is!

What’s the most important piece of advice you can give to other shop owners?

Keep on listing. Make sure you have a wide variety of items available for purchase in your shop. People love browsing shops that have many items in store.
If you have buyers or people contacting you about buying, stay in contact. Be honest, friendly, and polite!

You can find CrystalPhotography on Etsy, Facebook, and Blogspot!

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