Meet Felicia Douglas of Devon Smiles Photography

Today we’d like to introduce you to Felicia Douglas.

Felicia, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was a single mother for a long time and like many parents, I adored by sons face. So as I prepared to return back to work I got into the habit of taking so many pictures of him.

Hoping the “miss” during the day would not be so harsh. As he grew, I took pictures of him constantly and found that the pictures, I paid so much money for, at his school were becoming less impressive. At one point, the pictures I paid for were so bad that I had to get them retaken, and that was a task within itself.

After several unsuccessful calls to the photographer, I was never able to make an appointment. Needless to say, I was never able to reschedule the appointment. Well, that was the last time I spent my hard earned money on pictures I did not like and I knew I could do better as an amateur. In the meantime, I started taking pictures of my son and I each Christmas and also took pictures for friends. Well, that same year, I enrolled in the New York Institute of Photography. During my course study, I felt confident enough to begin my own business in 2012 and named it after my son, Devon…

Throughout my course, I study all types of photography from landscape, architecture, animal and of course family. It took me three years to complete the course but I finished and became certified in January 2014. At the conclusion of my studies, I was drawn to family photography, Senior High School and Corporate/Business Headshots. From my course study and past experience, I recognized the value of customer service, lighting and unique style; which is what I try to incorporate in every session. Even when we photograph events, we do not have the typical “photo booth” but have a “portrait booth” where each customer walks away or can order a portrait that can be displayed in a timeless manner.

Over time, my photography has become a family business, where my son works for me and has learned to be an entrepreneur. He accompanies me on various shoots, learns solid business sense by putting the client first, handles customer service issues and deals with finances. Working with my son has also offered us quality time together.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I don’t think anyone’s road has been smooth. I had to stay grounded in my faith and walk in a way where I discovered my value. I am not the most expensive photographer but I’m also not the cheapest. I have to compete against many others who believe they can do what I can do and often find out too late that it takes more than purchasing a camera from Costco or using the latest iPhone or cell phone photography.

To take timeless images, it takes a true study of light and the right equipment, which I have. Coupled with great customer service, I proudly can say I operate primarily from referrals. There are seasons that are slower than others but I trust in what God has for me and wait for the client I fit with and understand their need and share their vision.

Please tell us about Devon Smiles Photography.
I specialize in Business/Corporate Headshots, Family photography and Stylized Senior High School Portraits. The senior portraits are the funnest because it allows each high school or college student to show his/her uniqueness and style. We scout various locations that many may not believe would be a great place for photos.

We offer other services that compliment your experience – make-up and sometimes wardrobe assistance.

Our customer service sets us apart because it seems to be a lost art. Customers deserve to be heard for what they want and are spending their hard earned money on. I appreciate their time and try to make the most of those opportunities that may not be given again.

Lastly, a cellphone cannot do what I can do. Don’t betray your selfie and make it a headshot. Your face deserves better. We love to create your headshots inside the studio or outside. These are often extended into our unique media/website packages that include props and various locations.

If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I would not have doubted my worth and believed in my brand, my type of photography and my value. We often settle for less and undersell ourselves and our talent.

Pricing:

• Headshots/Senior Portraits start at $150
• Website packages start at $600
• Event photography starts at $350

Contact Info:

• Address: https://galleries.DevonSmilesPhotography.com/aviewofus
• Website: www.DevonSmilesPhogotraphy.com
• Phone: 909 351-0990
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: devonsmilesphoto
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DevonSmilesPhotography/
• Twitter: @Fotochik66

Image Credit:
Saundra Marie SMRSSS P.I.C.

Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.