In this interview, Josefine shares how a trip to Los Angeles became the first stepping stone toward becoming a freelance photographer, and why she believes everyone should study self-development. She also reveals her simple advice for anyone dreaming of starting their own business (hint: it is only two words).
So tell us, Josefine, what is your story?
I have always been interested in photography, but growing up, I never really imagined it as a possible career path. It was not until 2016, when I took an extended leave from work to visit a friend in Los Angeles for two months, that things really started to change.
Being in a completely new environment, surrounded by different perspectives and suddenly having so much free time, allowed me to look at my life in a way I never had before. The distance from home in Sweden allowed me to gain a completely new perspective on my life there.
Luckily, I had brought my camera with me to LA, and during that trip, I decided to finally find out whether photography was something I was truly willing to work hard for. I made it my main focus.
Would it be fair to say that you turned your passion into a career?
Definitely.
Was it an easy decision to start your company?
For me, it actually turned out to be a relatively easy decision because I started small. In the beginning, I kept my regular job while working with freelance photography on the side, which allowed me to maintain a sense of financial security.
I think that can be especially important when you are younger and worried about making ends meet.
What was your greatest fear?
Personally, my biggest fear was truly believing in myself. I did not really think I would be capable of creating this dream life for myself, so when I finally made the decision to take the leap and work independently, it felt like an enormous step.
Looking back now, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
What was the factor that made it go from an idea to reality?
I would say it was all about self-development. Around the same time that I started my freelance business, I also began studying self-development, and honestly, it came into my life at the perfect time.
I constantly recommend it to other people because I truly believe it helped raise my awareness around many things I needed to work on and understand better. It helped me a lot.
What is the best part of your job?
Simply put, I get to be creative every single day. I also love that my work allows me to meet so many inspiring people.
What is your best advice for others thinking about starting their own business?
My advice is incredibly simple, but very important: just start.
Start with something, anything, even if it feels pointless in the beginning. Do not wait for the perfect timing, a certain amount of money, or everything to feel fully planned out. Start from where you are right now and build from there.
You can do it.
If you have any questions or thoughts you would like to share, feel free to contact us at info@stinaaj.com.
Foto: Josefine Persson
