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Portraits with Purpose: How Zaniyah Chestnut Blends Business, Marketing, and Community Through Photography

����Ӱҵ College of Business and Security Management student, Zaniyah Chestnut, is taking on more than just marketing theory; she’s building a brand of community-focused creativity. As a business administration major with a concentration in marketing, Zaniyah is applying classroom lessons in real-time through her own venture, Chestnut Photography. We had the chance to get personal through Q&A about how her academic journey and entrepreneurial spirit go hand in hand.

Why did you choose to study business and marketing?
I've always been fascinated with the idea of "being my own boss" and learning not only how to market my business, but myself as a person. Although I am having a beautiful time being employed with ����Ӱҵ (shout out ResLife and Wood Center Graphics!), I've found a lot of joy in picking my own hours and managing the way operates. I like to see my business as an extension of me– as I grow my operations, I learn more about myself. 

How do your schoolwork and business tie together? Are there things you’ve learned in class that help you grow your business, and vice versa?
I love this question. One of the most notable lessons I've taken away from my business classes is to know how to serve your target audience effectively and ethically. Being a sole proprietorship, I take on customer relations and many similar aspects on my own. My personal business experiences have taught me that being patient, flexible, and proactive is the key to maintaining great relationships with clients. The patience I exercise with my customers tends to spill over into my personal life, too, which has been extremely helpful.

What are some of your favorite events that you’ve taken photos of?
My favorite events will always be the ones held locally, centered around community. I had a blast shooting at the Midnight Sun Festival and Downtown Market this recent summer. Seeing so many people flood into downtown brought so much light and color not only into my lens, but into my heart. The Fairbanks community is beautiful and I look forward to being able to capture more of it.

What are some challenges and rewards of starting your business in college?
I'm sure many college students can relate to the financial struggle of being a student. Starting a business takes your financial stress and then magnifies it, prints it out, and glues it on your ceiling. It took me a while to learn how to manage my budget appropriately while taking my business into account. I stopped ordering DoorDash frequently and found myself putting funds aside to pay for my website or social media. While I'm still learning to balance my business expenses, I'd say my biggest piece of advice is to invest in consistent branding to set yourself apart in the industry.

What are your goals for your business or career after college?
Depending on how the rest of my college career goes, I plan on venturing out into the community and taking my business to the next level. While I don't see myself hiring employees, I'd like to expand by introducing graphic design as a service in tandem with my photography. Using my last name (Chestnut) in my business name has not only made it more personal for me, but easier to branch out to new services under the same name.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?
For anyone looking to start a business locally, make sure you build those community connections along the way. I wouldn't be where I am if not for the friends, businesses, and even ����Ӱҵ staff who've worked with me. Utilize word of mouth!

From lens to classroom, Zaniyah Chestnut is proving that you don’t have to wait until graduation to make a real impact. Whether she’s photographing downtown festivals or learning about consumer behavior in class, Zaniyah is a shining example of how CBSM students turn their passions into purpose.

 

Follow her on Instagram to keep up with her journey. 

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