OEN Member Spotlight - Edis Jurcys, Edis Jurcys Photography

Q. Name/Name of company
A. Edis Jurcys Photography. 
My last name is pronounced more like “Yurchis”, the word cheese will help you to be more correct : )

Q. How long has your product/service/company been in the market?
A. I have been a full time freelance photographer / videographer in Portland since 1994.
However, I have been doing fine art photography since my high school days in Lithuania, and  I graduated from the most prestigious film school in the ex-Soviet Union. 

Q. How did you determine need for product/service (or why do you anticipate a need)?
A. Everyone starts their day with reading news and seeing images.  In a consumer world we have trained ourselves that the right images will sell products and promote business.  Today most companies are searching for a good photographer to create new images for their websites, brochures and other marketing materials.  That’s where my service comes in. I can give clients the highest quality images that they need.

Beyond all that I was drawn to photography to create beauty, offer vision, and see things in a fresh new way. 

Q. Why did you choose the Portland area to start your business?
A. Portland is a hub of creative energy.  The city never stops growing. More people are moving here, attracted to the same things that attracted me, a lifestyle that supports sustainability, parks and recreation, numerous small businesses  and colorful neighborhoods.

Q. What are your impressions of the entrepreneurial community in Portland?
A. It is vibrant, active and strong.  We are all trying to reach out to new clients, make new connections and support each other.

Q. How would you like to see it grow/change?
A. It is already changing, because more young talent is moving to Portland.

Q. How are you involved in the community and how has it helped shape your business?
A. I am a member of Blue Sky Gallery, which has a strong network of photographers who support each other. I share a studio with three other photographers. I regularly attend First Thursday and Last Thursday exhibits/events.  I’ve done lots of photography for non-profit organizations, offered free services to OEN, POVA and IN UR Magazine. I’ve donated images for auctions and fundraising parties to help raise money for organizations such as Community Warehouse, Grant High School, Cascade Aids Project and many more. 

I joined OEN last spring.  This community is a good fit for me.  My goal during networking events is to get to know OEN members and be their top choice for photographic services. For me, one of the benefits of belonging to OEN is that I am becoming a better business person.

Q. What are your favorite websites/magazines/events that you read/attend to keep yourself informed about the business community/your specific market?
A. Oregon Business Magazine, Ode magazine for the intelligent optimist. First Thursday

Q. Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
A. Don’t give up, make it happen. 

http://www.edisphoto.com/
phone : 503-998-8069