Luther Photography
Luther Photography specialises in creative, contemporary photography, both portrait and landscape, with a particular emphasis on limited edition prints of local South Tyneside scenes
When did you start up?
February 2008
How many people does your business employ?
Just me!
Why did you want to start your own business?
I'm passionate about the area and had been looking at ways to start up my own business as a photographer. One day I called into BBC Radio Newcastle to take part in a phone-in, and by chance, was over heard by Carol Metcalfe, an advisor from TEDCO (Tyneside Economic Development Company) who got in touch and told me how to start.
Best points about owning a business?
Fantastic! It's great to be using my skills and developing my passion for photography.
Where do you see yourself in two years time?
At the moment I also work as a part time waiter, but I hope that I will soon be able to put my energies into running the business full time, making enough money to expand and grow and investing in an assistant to deal with bookings and business administration.
A highlight from your experiences?
The highlight has to be when I got the phone call offering me advice and help I could have yelled out loud as this was exactly what I had been looking for. South Tyneside Means Business couldn't have been more helpful
If you had one piece of advice for people starting a business, what would it be?
Just remember that when people are supporting you it gives you a great 'can do' attitude which helps you gain motivation and inspiration for your business. Because of this, I would tell people to seek that advice which helps you to make great strides in moving the business forward for the future
What is the best thing about doing business in South Tyneside?
South Tyneside is a wonderful place to work and live, I am very passionate about the area which is hopefully reflected in my work.
How did you finance your business when you started out?
STMB offered me a feasibility grant of £1,600 to develop my business ideas, produce samples for the public and help promote my work to the corporate business market before launching in February 2008.
What was the hardest thing about securing finance?
I was lucky as someone initially approached me rather than the other way round.
What support have you received for your business in South Tyneside? South Tyneside Means Business have been fantastic. I've put the money I received from them to good use, developing my creative ideas, marketing the business and breaking into the corporate market so hopefully it can grow into a sustainable and self-funding business
Did you have any training or learn new skills before you set up your business?
I finished a degree in fine art at Newcastle University, which has helped but I've self taught myself.
