We had the good fortune of connecting with LaLa Spears and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi LaLa, what habits do you feel helped you succeed?
A few habits that I feel have helped me succeed are: practicing good customer service, creating boundaries, and making it a point to consistently grow in my craft. Communication is key! It can be the difference between a good experience and a great one. Create boundaries! Say what you will and won’t put up with and stick to it. People don’t own you just because they pay for a service. Grow, grow, grow! Find a class, an internship, a YouTube video…something, ANYTHING and consistently challenge yourself so you won’t become stagnant in what you produce. I’m not perfect at any of these things, but they’re foundational and non-negotiable business practices for me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart from others is the attention I show and the way I care about my clients. I’m most proud of my growth in a short amount of time. It was not easy! I have cried many tears of frustration and prayed many prayers for guidance and favor. I want the world to know what a lot of times you won’t hear entrepreneurs or business owners talk about…mental health and our relationship with it. The mental strength it takes to step out on faith and pursue a dream is often underestimated at the onset. You have to fight your own doubts and fears and often other people in your ear as well! I want the world to know that my business name, LaLa Takes Life, has a double meaning. Yes, I’m “taking life” in the sense of documenting it through my lens, but I’ve also made the decision to “take life”. As in, I’m taking on life and all it has to offer, like taking a bull by its horns! I’ve decided to live and do it well.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a bit of a home body (especially with COVID), but I’d take them to a few of my favorite food spots for sure! I love Ms. Iceys for brunch, Mangos Caribbean restaurant for their oxtails and mac and cheese, and Jeni’s for ice cream, just to name a few. We’d definitely have a small get together at the crib for a meet and greet and turn up. I’d probably want to explore the city with them and find new favorite places together and create memories, for sure. And of course find dope places to document and do a few photoshoots.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My parents deserve a huge shoutout. Throughout the years they have supported me and encouraged me to pursue my heart’s desires and go after my dreams. Also the other photographers who have taken time to teach me and allow me to glean from them, Drea Nicole and Mel B. They’re the best!

Website: LaLaSpears.com
Instagram: Instagram.com/lalatakeslife
Twitter: Twitter.com/lalatakeslife
Facebook: Facebook.com/LalaTakesLife
Other: Email: admin@lalaspears.com

Image Credits
Personal Photo by Monica Goings All other Images by LaLa Takes Life

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