Photographer Kate joins entrepreneurs with gallery at Bishton Hall
January 25, 2022
Fine art photographer Kate Bennett, pictured with her dog Wilson, has set up her own photography business after completing a university qualification and a start-up business course.
Kate, who opened her new gallery at Bishton Hall near Stafford in November 2021, joins a growing community of artisan entrepreneurs including the Antique Bean Tea Room, the Well Nest Wellbeing Studio, Mercia Whisky and Gin Lab, the Quirky Emporium, and the Pottery Cave, with more to come.
She will be showcasing her fine art photography, handmade reclaimed wooden frames and ‘Lessons from Life’ photo cards.
Kate first got into photography when her best friend took her out to take photos.
Kate said: “I’d never used a proper camera before, but he showed me how to alter settings and talked me through composition. From there I was hooked and forever watching YouTube videos to master my new craft.
Last year Kate achieved a distinction grade Photography Certificate from the University of Arts, London, giving her the motivation to set up her own photography business.
Meanwhile Kate’s sister, told her about the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub and how they had previously helped her in setting up her business.
Kate said: “I contacted the Growth Hub and they put me in touch with start-up advisor, Aly Davidson. I immediately knew that Aly was the lady to help me turn an idea into reality. I wanted to sell my prints as the feedback I’d had from people was so positive, but I didn’t know how to go about it. The advice and encouragement Aly gave me was invaluable. She said I needed an inexpensive product that would appeal to a wide audience and give me a regular income. I then went away to think about how I could use my photography prints to make this happen.
“In the meantime, I attended the free business start-up course offered by Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce. It took me methodically through what’s involved with sessions on how to market and advertise your business along with getting your head around submitting tax returns and registering as a new business.
“Aly delivered all these sessions so well, and the information has enabled me to progress my business much quicker than I originally planned.
“I have now introduced my ‘Lessons from life’ photo cards into my product offering. The cards cost £4.50 each with an image on the front and a verse written on the back which I write myself. If I hadn’t had the one-to-one with Aly, I would never have thought about a smaller product offering. I am now selling many cards to people who visit my gallery.”
The gallery will now be open six days a week, closed on Tuesdays, as Kate’s daughter is joining the business full time.
Kate added: “It has been a really exciting ride starting my own business. I am so grateful to Aly and the Chambers and Growth Hub and it’s great to know I have a support network to call on as my business grows.
Anyone wishing to find out more can visit Kate at Bishton Hall at weekends and most Fridays
For more information you can also visit her website Kate Bennett Photography (madebykate.net)
