Degree/Year: Studio Art, 2014
Company: Hayden Stinebaugh Photography
Position: Owner
City/State: Detroit, Michigan

Being the owner of a small business comes with a lot of responsibilities. I do everything – all photography, editing, keeping my website up-to-date, conceptualizing photo shoots, interacting with clients, financial paperwork and taxes. It can be hectic at times, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Creating something on your own and seeing it flourish into a full-time business is one of the most satisfying things I’ve ever accomplished. I’ve worked with clients like Shinola, Ford, Hour Detroit magazine, Cadillac, and Lululemon to name a few.

Taking all the photo classes while at MSU gave me a lot of knowledge and understanding of my craft, and I think that is what sets me apart from a lot of other photographers.

My photography major helped me prepare for this role in many ways. Taking all the photo classes while at MSU gave me a lot of knowledge and understanding of my craft, and I think that is what sets me apart from a lot of other photographers — so many of them don’t have a formal education. Going to MSU, I was able to learn from some of the best. They inspired and pushed me to challenge myself. MSU taught me how to get things done in a timely manner, become professional, and handle everything on my own, but it was hitting the streets and networking post graduation that really got me to where I am today.

For any Spartans out there looking to pursue photography or any creative profession, the most important thing to do is work on your craft every day.