This week we have the honor of speaking with the founder of Bauman Photographers, Mr. Jared Bauman himself. As in past interviews, italics are me (Kristin).
So, we’ll start with the basics and then get into the nitty gritty stuff people really want to know about. How did you decide to start your own company, specifically a photography company?
I always wanted to own my own business, and photography was the only thing I knew how to do at 19.
Are there ever days when you wish you were just “working for the man” and not running your own company?
YES. Being “the man” is not all that it’s cracked up to be. 🙂
What has been your favorite moment since running this company? Was there a moment when you thought to yourself “yes, I’m there”
There have been several moments where I’ve given myself enough time to stop and give myself a pat on the back. When we had our studio opening party, that was really great to see the studio come together. Our first destination wedding was really cool. Getting to speak at WPPI. Those are just a few. In general there isn’t that much time to stop and think about having “made it” because we really haven’t made it that far yet.
What has been your favorite place to shoot photographs?
New Zealand.
If you could go anywhere right now, where would it be?
Alaska.
If your car died and you had no way of fixing it, what kind of car do you think you would buy?
Hmm.. What would I want to buy or what would I buy? I would want to buy a Toyota Highlander or something… I know, I’m a big dreamer. I probably would buy a newer version of my Corolla (yep, we drive the same fabulous car!) until I felt like I was ready to upgrade.
Favorite day at work this past summer?
Mmm – well, there have been many. It’s a toss up between Bauman Beach Day and Team Bauman does Disneyland. (you see that, even the boss’ favorite days are spent outside of the office! 🙂)
Least favorite day at work this summer?
Every day is my least favorite day at work. Just kidding. Probably the day before I had 3 weddings in a weekend, which was also my birthday. That was kind of stressful.
Favorite Bauman lunch?
Phil’s BBQ on my birthday. That was the best!
Most awkward question you have ever been asked in front of people?
It would have to be a toss up between “When are you proposing to your girlfriend” as someone I’ve dated is standing in the same room, or the question I get asked at least once a month “So, does Jared always send his assistants out to meet with people?” to which I have to respond “actually, I am Jared.”
What is something you love to splurge on?
Travel, camera gear, a smoothie. (yum!)
Favorite character on The Office?
Oh, the intern. Definitely. (aka the temp, who is no longer the temp! Luckily, Jared does not treat our interns the same way Michael treats Ryan.)
