BUSINESS OWNER: Britton Hacke
BUSINESS NAME: Britton Hacke Photography
MAIN PRODUCTS/SERVICES: Photographer
LOCATION: Siouxland
WEBSITE: Instagram- @britton_hacke_photography or Facebook- Britton Hacke Photography
Short description of your business: I’m a photographer in the Sioux City area. I don’t necessarily have a specialty, as I shoot everything from events, to weddings, family portraits, cooperate, and product photography. I also shoot concerts for several larger area venues. I’ve worked with nationally touring acts like Wu Tang Clan, Steve-O, as well as several clothing brands, and Netflix.
What’s unique about your business? I strive to highlight our community in ways people might not have seen before. The biggest compliment I hear often is how people look down on Sioux City or don’t think there’s anything of beauty here and tend to focus on the negative, and seeing my shots have given them a whole new perspective. I’m also completely self-taught, photography and social media wise, which has been challenging at times but has allowed me to put my spin on these things, and luckily, people have responded.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome as you’ve grown your business?
I think I’m a bit chaotic by nature (But in a good way, lol), so organizational things have been a learning curve. I am also figuring out what steps are necessary to grow my client base.
What has been your greatest reward?
Being able to give back to the community that’s given me so much. The support I’ve received in Siouxland has been incredible. As a result, I’ve been able to help raise awareness for some issues I believe are important and are affecting the community, such as homelessness.
How have you benefited from the startup community in Sioux City and the region? What resources did you use?
I didn’t, and I do regret it. I didn’t really start up intending to be a business. It just took off, and I’ve been trying my best to steer it ever since.
Why is it important for the community to support startups and small businesses? What more can be done to help them?
Community support – absolutely, it’s the most important thing. Without that, small businesses would not exist. I’ve always felt this way, but 2020 put this into perspective. I was seeing so many small businesses close around town. It takes little effort to support your favorite local businesses. Make a post on your favorite social media platform, leave reviews on Google and Facebook, and most importantly, frequent them!
What is one thing you know now that you wish you had known when starting your business?
I wish I would have known about all the amazing resources available such as Iowa’s West Coast Initiative, Small Business Development Center, Siouxland Economic Development Corporation, etc.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start a business?
Do it! The biggest piece of advice is just do it and really commit to whatever it is you’re doing.
Get up earlier and stay up later than the next guy, and you’ll already be ahead.
How can the community continue to help your business?
It’s easy. Make sure to follow my pages (Facebook- britton hacke photography / instagram @britton_hacke_photography). Like and share posts; consider, booking a session or buying some prints! I have a rack of prints available for purchase any time at the Art SUX Gallery (515 4th St).
What are some future goals for your company?
Hopefully, I can continue to be one of Siouxland’s favorite photographers. Also, I’d love to get a shot on the cover of Rolling Stone, haha.
