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Luke Aden photographs a nature scene.
Business Overview
Luke Aden is an entrepreneur that runs his own photography business, Luke Aden Photography. At just 17-years-old, Luke has accomplished quite a lot! He is a contributing photographer on Shutter Stock and iStock photo, he has won numerous awards, and his work has been featured on 9News’ coverage of student protests against gun violence last spring. Although he loves to capture the outdoors, Luke also photographs weddings and takes family and senior photos. He uses profits from mowing lawns to help grow his photography business even more.
Watch Luke’s segment on Colorado and Company!
Question: Tell me a little bit about you – name, age, how long you’ve been an entrepreneur?
Answer: My name is Luke Aden. I am 17 years – old and a junior in high school. I think I was born as an entrepreneur. Owning my own business came naturally as my parents have been business owners for years. I truly enjoy creating new ideas and thinking about what hasn’t been developed. And what is a need that consumers would pay for. I do see myself owning several businesses in the future.
Q: Do you have a website? If so, let us know what it is.
Q: What motivated or inspired you to start a business?
A: I’ve been taking photos for 7 years and started my business about 3 years ago. When I was younger I wanted to find a way to earn money and I love photograph – so- I combined the two. I love the outdoors – skiing; mountains; nature. I truly aim to capture the moments in my photography. I love to travel.
Q: Please share an overview about your business.
A: I love to take photographs and challenge myself to capture what the eye sees. I have studied under successful photographers – a National Geographic Photographer and a marketing advertising photographer here in Denver who has corporate clients. I attended a 12 day National Geographic Photography Workshop in Yellowstone National Park. I am a contributing photographer for Creative Shutter Stock & iStock Photo.com. I have been a news photography stringer – my photos were on 9news – Lives Matter Student walk against gun violence in schools to the Capital last Spring https://www.9news.com/gallery/news/education/photos-student-walkouts-in-colorado-protesting-gun-violence/73-528508162. I do have 2019 desk calendars and note cards for sale. I take taken senior photos; engagement photos; marketing photos etc. My goal is to work for national geographic; GO PRO; or shoot for a clothing line; car company or outdoors company.
Q: Tell us about some of the challenges you face being a young business owner.
A: Balancing school; lawn mowing biz; and growing my photography biz.
Q: Why should other youth start a business?
A: It teaches you responsibility. I now have an appreciation for business owners -understanding the time involved in producing a product; keeping clients satisfied; and still figure out how to make a profit. It is a good reality check of how the real world works.
Q: What’s the best part about having your own business?
A: Having independence.
Q: So, you’re one of the finalists for the Spotlight on YouthBiz Stars business competition–congratulations! What motivated you to apply for the competition, and what do you hope to get from this experience?
A: I have enjoyed this experience. The other business owners have motivated and inspired me. I am really looking forward to working with a mentor to help grow my photography businesses and other business ideas.
Q: Please share about your involvement with Young Americans.
A: I have participated in the AmeriTowne field trip in 5thgrade and just loved it. I also attended an entrepreneur class when I was 10 years old. I am a hands-on learner so this type of education works great for me.
