WHO ARE YOU AND WHERE DID YOU COME FROM
My name is Chris MacKenzie and I am a professional photographer, specialising in food and interiors, as well as fashion, family and pet photography.
I was born in Edinburgh, studied here, then moved away, but I recently moved back to Edinburgh, from St Andrews and am thoroughly enjoying getting to know the city all over again.
WHAT IS THE BUSINESS BOOK YOU RECOMMEND THAT EVERYONE SHOULD READ
My favourite business book is Marshall Goldsmith’s Mojo: How to Get It, How to Keep It and How to Get It Back If You Lose It. I’ve found it particularly useful for its advice on how to develop my business, while maintaining a good work-life balance.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE YOUR BUSINESS STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES
My main strengths are that I have a genuine passion for photography and a determination to deliver the best possible service. I also work closely with my business clients to understand what they are seeking to achieve for their business and to deliver images which will reflect their brand.
My main weakness (if this is a weakness) is that I am a perfectionist and have all the patience it takes to get the best possible shots for my clients.
WHAT WAS THE DEFINING MOMENT ON YOUR CAREER PATH THAT HAS GOT YOU WHERE YOU ARE NOW
My defining moment was when I realised that I could combine my passion for photography with starting up my own business.
HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR SPARE TIME
I am enjoying getting to know Edinburgh all over again, visiting its many fantastic restaurants, catching up with old friends and of course, capturing the beauty of the city with my camera.
DO YOU THINK YOU ACHIEVE A GOOD WORK/LIFE BALANCE
I strive to and usually manage, but when work is particularly busy, social life has to take a back seat for a little while.
WHAT MAKES EDINBURGH THE BEST LOCATION FOR YOU TO LIVE AND/OR WORK IN
It’s not just a beautiful city, but it’s a great base for exploring the rest of Scotland too. I also love how it’s become a more cosmopolitan city over the last 20 years or so.
WHAT’S YOUR SPECIAL AREA OF EDINBURGH, OR SPECIAL PLACE IN EDINBURGH AND WHY
I particularly love the Old Town – its history has always fascinated me.
WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIDER THE PINNACLE OF YOUR CAREER
I haven’t reached it yet, but there have been many exciting career moments along the way.
IF YOU HAVE A MENTOR, COULD YOU TELL US WHO THAT IS AND ABOUT YOUR RELATIONSHIP
There are many great people in my life who I can turn to for informal advice – they all offer different insights, which I find extremely valuable.
WHICH NETWORKING GROUPS IN EDINBURGH HAVE YOU FOUND PARTICULARLY USEFUL
No Excuses Networking ticks all my boxes, for its informality, friendliness and business opportunities.
WHAT ARE YOUR BUSINESS GOALS FOR THE NEXT YEAR
My main business goal for the next year and beyond is to grow my photography business. I’ve already worked with some of Scotland’s best restaurants and the plan is to work with many more!
DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL DAY FOR US
I’m usually up early to check equipment and prepare for the day ahead. After checking emails and social media, and a quick cup of coffee, I’m off out to a day of shoots and client meetings. Then I edit images, write quotes and catch up on more emails and social media. I try to keep my evenings free wherever possible, to spend time with my friends and family.
BEST JOB ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED
To enjoy what you do for a living and I am lucky enough to be in that position.
YOUR PLAN OF ACTION FOR THE NEXT 12 MONTHS
To take as many great photographs as possible.
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