Daily Inspiration: Meet Madison Crump

Today we’d like to introduce you to Madison Crump. 

Hi Madison, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
As a young girl, I developed a love and passion for horses. I never really grew out of that passion, as most don’t. But I did develop passions for other things as well, including photography. When I graduated high school, I was on a fast track for a degree in Zoology (animal biology). That track was cut short in March of 2020 when I was sent home due to the pandemic. During this time, I knew I needed to distract myself with something fun. I started crafting and taking photos again, something I had set aside for school. As I spent more time with my camera, I really got into it. I took pictures at a local show where the photographer was absent and from there my business bloomed. I had never really intended to create a business out of a hobby, but they say “if you’re really good at something, you shouldn’t do it for free.” So, I started charging for my photos and was hired as an official show photographer for a club I had shown with for over 6 years. I have a huge dedication to the clubs that I was raised showing in, and I made a promise to myself to continue to price my images at a rate that my local club members could purchase. A luxury I never had. Now I run a successful small business giving a little back to those horse-crazy girls, of every age, that I see myself in. Continuing to grow and improve to provide the best quality experience to those who choose to be my clients. But mostly, being able to capture the love for horses that so many others share with me is enough to keep me going. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
There were quite a few struggles! As many as the next woman. I had a hard time getting my business out there, exposure, client building all the things. But honestly, the hardest part was deciding how to charge, and what to charge. I truly didn’t believe anyone would pay more than $50 for a newbie like me. I honestly didn’t think I could ever charge more than that. After a short period of time and a LOT of support from my friends and other small businesses I slowly began to raise my prices to help cover the costs of running my business and buying new equipment. To my surprise the higher I raised my prices the more clients I gained! They knew my value before I did, and with their support, I was able to be confident enough to charge what I really needed to be able to grow my business, not just run it. Even now I am always giddy when someone books, knowing I built this from the ground up with nothing but a glimmer of hope and persistence. 

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a photographer, but I specialize in Equine photography! This is a slightly different field than just normal photography. Knowing how to use angles, light, direction, conformation, and posing are a huge factor in making the difference between a good photo and a GREAT photo. Which is true for every field of photography. I shoot local horse competitions as well as portrait and fine art photography. I am most proud of the growth and experience that I have gained in the past few years! I love learning and I love that I will never know it all. I am so thrilled that I can continue to grow and share my passion with others while still being able to learn from them! 

Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
I don’t have as much time to sit down and read as I would like, but I love learning from other creatives! Other small businesses who have done, or are doing the same thing as me is super inspirational. I love seeing people’s progress and success stories. 

Pricing:

• Equestrian photoshoots ranging from $100-$1175

Contact Info:

• Email: simplymajic.cp@gmail.com
• Website: simplymajicphotography.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplymajic.photography/

Image Credits
Simply Majic Photography