1. How did Susan Carmody Photography begin?
SCP began after a few years of working as a photographer for outdoor adventure companies with my young daughter in tow. I started taking more and more photos of her and my friend’s children than I did of kayakers hucking themselves off waterfalls. Encouraged by my husband to start my own business, I just followed the natural course of my life and the lives of friends around me—raising a family and cherishing fleeting moments as our children grew.
2. What is the biggest challenge in being a mom entrepreneur?
By far the biggest challenge is finding the balance between being a mum (yes I am an Aussie so go ahead and correct my spelling!), a businesswoman, a wife, a friend, and being Sue! Oh yes and getting enough sleep too.
3. What are some of your greatest successes?
My biggest success is giving birth to my two beautiful healthy children here at home.
4. How do you maintain a healthy work/life balance?
When I catch myself feeling a little overwhelmed, I sit down and make a list of all the things I need to do and then prioritize them. I also try very hard to maintain family days that are completely separate from work days. This is not always easy but I take one look at my children waiting for me to go for a bike ride, on a family day, and shut down the computer until they go to sleep at night.
5. What tips can you offer to other busy mom entrepreneurs?
Before you go to bed each night make a list, whether it be for work or pleasure, of what you need or want to do the next day. I have been doing this for a while now and as simple as it sounds, it really helps to switch off from worrying or wondering how your day will go. It will also help you get a good night’s rest. Whenever I do this, which is nearly every night, I am much more prepared and clear about my day when I wake up.
6. Why do you think women are good entrepreneurs?
I think women are good entrepreneurs because when we choose to go for it with a business, we are, more often than not, motivated by our passion for it. In my opinion, this is an important ingredient for long-term success. We are also generally not afraid to ask questions or ask for help and support.