Daily Inspiration: Meet Somer Handley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Somer Handley.

Over the years her studio, Revolution Studios, has grown into a recognizable powerhouse brand thanks to the hard work of her and her talented team. Her passion at the studio and its continuous successes is her ability to ignite confidence through imagery and within her unparralled photographic experience.

Somer states that her studio would not be where it is today without her team. She made it clear it wasn’t just about her. From photographers and retouching artists, to stylists and admins, Each team member whether current or ones that have continued in a new journey have been such a big part of who Revolution is. Somer boasts to feel so lucky to have their teamwork, collaborative vision, and dedication during all the growth! Everyone has been instrumental!

Somer Handley has been recognized not only as a leader in photography but also as a business mentor to those in her industry. She also speaks and teaches about “work life balance” and “mastering a superior customer experience”.

Somer and her studio have been named the Face of Boudoir and Glamour Photography for four consecutive years by MidTown Magazine, featured in The KNOW Women Publication recognizing Women Leaders for three years (Mentors, Creators, and Entrepreneurs you need to “KNOW” and be doing business with), and most recently her studio featured in an episode of THE BEST OF RALEIGH taking about her passion for photography, videography, and branding.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had?
Thinking reflectively in my earlier years as a business owner I can now laugh remembering how I would let even the little things get to me. It’s all relative I suppose to time and headspace but I definitely can look back and see how much of a turn around that has been for me and not just my business that has grown up 🙂 You live and learn and definitely don’t sweat the small stuff.

This past year with Covid has been one of the biggest challenges and question marks. Being mandated to shut our doors… no clients…haulting revenue. I was genuinely worried. Revolution was lucky to have a business savings to fall back on to get us through but weeks turned to months…into a year… things are still a bit unpredictable. Sure people are out and about again, many are vaccinated now, our staff included, we just don’t know the lingering effect. Will client spending be able to stimulate small businesses? There is a big cycle here. Like for example with us… businesses and brands are a big client/ revenue stream for us. If those businesses are experiencing a decrease in sales then sometimes luxury items like photography or videography needs are cut first.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We have two sides to our business… We have the corporate side which we offer professional headshots, product photography, company branding, full video and production, etc… Then we have the other side of the business which is a little more glitz and glam offering editorial statement photography, boudoir shoots, glamor photography and such. Both sides of the business have grown like crazy and together very strong defining our company name and brand.

At Revolution Studios, we believe in the full photographic experience, not just a great final imagery. We understand the positive impact and statement that a great imagery can make! From wardrobe consulting, professional hair and makeup, and posing we will guide you through the process ensuring a confident and polished representation of your best self! We take time to learn about our clients and what they want from their session with us and together come up with a collaborative vision to bring to life.

In a digital society photography and videography are a BIG part of making a first impression. From a corporate headshot, celebrating a milestone birthday, or feeling sexy, we have become the go-to experts. We have defined ourself as a Statement Photography. Images that have impact, images that wow. Images that you feel something when you see them.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Customer experience is everything to me. There are so many talented photographers out there creating great imagery. When you combine that with an unparalleled experience that is where the full magic happens. I am not just talking about the customer’s side of things either. I tell my staff often how contagious great service and experience can be. It feels just as good to give that experience as well as to receive it. It’s a win-win for all.

Contact Info:

• Email: info@revolution-studios.com
• Website: www.revolution-studios.com
• Instagram: revolution_studios

Image Credits
Somer Handley, Revolution Studios