Meet Rachel Borkow

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Borkow.

Hi Rachel, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story. 
I’m originally from New York, but I began my career in television production and moved to Los Angeles to pursue more opportunities in that field. As a kid, I always loved taking photos (on a disposable camera, of course—I’m a child of the 90s!). Still, I followed the production path in college, which led me to work at MTV on the reality show “The City” as a production assistant. I ended up working in visual effects in Los Angeles, but when a friend asked me to take her engagement photos in 2014, something clicked, and I knew I needed to take a different path in my career journey. 

I learned a lot in TV and film production, much of which I still use today. I’m thankful that a start in that field led to what I do now, which combines two of my passions: photography and working with children. In 2015, my photography business launched, and it has grown into something I’m really proud of. Now, I produce photoshoots; life has a funny way of getting you where you’re meant to be. 

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?
As most entrepreneurs can tell you, starting a business is not easy, especially starting out. Having to work full-time while also building my photography business on the side was exhausting. It took 5 years before I really started to see the fruits of my labor and the hustle pay off. You have to be patient and persistent; and truly believe you have something unique and special to offer. The hustle of a freelance artist also never goes away but it does get easier to navigate as you gain experience. 

Being my own boss was an adjustment. It was pretty isolating at first. I’m a people person, and I love collaborating and being able to bounce ideas off of creative people. I sometimes miss having co-workers, but at the same time, it’s forced me to really trust my intuition. This has become a valuable tool in making decisions on my own, and I have learned to appreciate being the one calling the shots. All of the challenges bring helpful lessons, which have given me confidence in my skills and capabilities as an artist and entrepreneur. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a portrait and event photographer specializing in working with children. 

I also love shooting for brands, primarily apparel and products that are geared towards children and parents. 

I feel privileged that I’m invited to meet every client I photograph. I’ve gotten feedback that my photo sessions feel more like fun play dates than staged photo shoots. I laugh, run, and interact with the kids at my shoots. I am also extremely patient, giving me the ability to wait out any temper tantrum (from a child or an adult). I’m inspired by my clients’ connection and emotion; my goal is for them to feel comfortable to be themselves because that’s when the photos are truly the best and most authentic. 

How do you define success?
My attitude towards success has changed over the years. I used to define success as something monetary you can achieve. I don’t feel that way anymore because I never quite felt successful when I reached my goal. I’d launch into thinking, “What now?” and always feel like there is still something bigger and better to achieve before I can feel success. 

Success is producing a product that brings me fulfillment and creates memorable experiences and joy within it. It’s a win-win. If my clients love their images, that’s success to me. Success is the feeling rather than the achievement of milestones. Walking into a family’s home and seeing my photos framed or hearing feedback from the littlest clients that they didn’t want the shoot to end brings out that feeling. 

Pricing:

• Pricing starts at $700

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rachelborkowphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelborkowphoto/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachelborkowphoto/

Image Credits
Rachel Borkow Photography
Danielle Bennink Photography: Main Photo