The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
Gwen Little talks about her business Gwen Little Photography.
Tell us the story behind how your business started.
For as long as I can remember I loved taking pictures. A “fancy” camera was on my wishlist all throughout high school.
It wasn’t uncommon to find me taking nature pictures on my android smartphone. In 2020 I was gifted my first “professional” camera as a basic training graduation gift.
It wasn’t until 2023 after our daughter was born that I finally decided I had the practice and skill set to create a business. With the support of my family, my boyfriend, and his family I was able to build up the gear and confidence to finally put myself out there and have been doing it ever since!
What makes your business unique in the community?
My goal is make photography affordable for everyone. Being a part of a young family figuring out the world, I understand that it can be too expensive to have professional pictures.
I believe that everyone deserves to have the opportunity to have pictures they feel beautiful in.
What do you love most about being part of this community?
My roots started in La Harpe and I have SO much family history still being built there to this day. The small town community is where this big dream started and getting to share it with the people who helped me get here is the best part!
What are some of your most popular products or services?
My family sessions! I have very fun and affordable family sessions for each unique family ! They’re some of my favorite ones to do as well!
What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
Having the confidence to put myself out there has been one of my biggest obstacles!
Being young and wanting to be taken seriously can be extremely nerve wracking! In all honesty just continuing to book sessions and holding myself to a professional standard has helped me overcome that the most!
Are there any upcoming events, promotions, or new offerings you’d like people to know about?
I’m currently running two awesome promotions! The first one is near and dear to my heart, I’m offering for 50% off all sessions to be eligible to be donated to Cuddle Cat rescue in Hannibal Missouri.
The second ones is a super awesome $20 off when you book for 2026 before December 1st!
How do you support or get involved with local causes or organizations?
I recently volunteered my services at Cuddle Cat Rescue and delivered a digital album to add to their basket of rewards for their annual fund donation gifts as well as to get some of the sweet faces they house, pushed out to a larger audience!
I’m always looking for ways to support our local shelters and rescues!
What advice would you give to someone wanting to start a business in this area?
Just keep pushing! Staying consistent and continuing to put effort into your business will help you grow the most.
Slow times are part of the growth, don’t give up!!
Don’t be afraid to ask for help from successful people in the industry you’re going into!
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about your business?
I run everything for my business out of our home! When I’m not at a shoot I’m a stay at home mom that organizes everything while wrangling two beautiful girls!
How can people connect with or support your business?
I have a business page on Facebook and Instagram both with the handle: Gwen Little Photography. The best way to support me is to share with your friends and invite them to check out my work!