BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – SINCE establishing his photo studio three months ago, businessman Charles Pemberton believes that there are available opportunities for young, determined and committed entrepreneurs.
Pemberton told SKNVibes Business that while considering establishing his studio, a number of persons felt it was not a good idea because of the economic challenges being faced by many. He however pointed out that he went ahead with the idea because of his confidence and passion in someday owning his own photo studio.
“I strongly believe that if one is careful in one’s planning and determined to make it, one would succeed. And while some people may say that it’s too early for such business to blossom, I have had a good three months so far,” he said.
Pemberton pointed out that his business is the realisation of a lifelong dream, noting that he always wanted to own his own photo studio.
“This is all that I know today, as I have been doing this for so many years. I love doing this, that is why I have always dreamt of owning my own studio,” he added.
Charlie, as he is familiarly known, said that his studio, Pixel Magic, is geared primarily at providing high level services at an affordable price to all customers.
“I recognise that the market is very competitive, so I have ensured that price and quality along with service are of utmost importance to ensure the public will return to do more business. I must ensure that my customers leave feeling a sense of satisfaction and the willingness to return,” he declared.
Pemberton said he recognises that while a number of persons are in the same field of work, there is an urgent need for more creativity and advancement, promising that Pixel Magic would bring that to the fore.
“There are a lot of things that can be done to enhance the business of photography. Since starting my own business, I have ventured to provide that level and standard of service that customers so desperately need,” he said.
He admitted that the photography sector is facing more competition with the establishing of additional businesses, declaring that he is ready and well-prepared for any challenge.
When asked about his hours of business, Pemberton said, “I open from 8:00 a.m. to whenever I get tired, and that can be from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Mondays to Saturdays, with Sunday being only by appointment.”
Pixel Magic is located at College Street Ghaut and Liverpool Row and, according to the young entrepreneur, it is a good location, despite the views by many who felt that it was not conducive for business of that nature.
“I am thankful that over the years I have built a very good customer base, and I firmly believe that they will continue to support me and my business,” Pemberton said with a high degree of confidence.
Quizzed as to why he ended his relationship with Mystique Photo Studio, Pemberton said, “I just felt that the time had come for me to move on and I wanted to do just that. I believe that fulfilling one’s dreams are very important, and this passion has been there for years. So, following it meant opening my own photo studio.”
Pemberton revealed to SKNVibes Business that he anticipates more public’s support, noting that despite the significant financial capital that was required in getting the business off the ground, in terms of equipment and renovation, there are signs that his investment was wise and positive.
Giving an insight into how he got started, Pemberton said his first employer was Willet Photo Studios, where he worked for a number of years before moving on to Mystique Photo Studio. He said that he recently completed 10 years at the latter before venturing out on his own.
He added that his decision to commence his business without any employee was an attempt to be careful and prudent in his financial operations. Since then he has employed one person and noted that his business is growing.
“For now I will have to do it with only one employee, as this is another way of being prudent in my spending so that this business can grow properly,” he told SKNVibes Business.
