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| Don't overthink; ideate, prototype, and eventually, you'll find your path |
1. Tell us about your background and journey?
Hi, my name is Parminder Sahni, and I am the founder of the travel company Travel at smile.com. Before I started VsnapU, I had a remarkable journey with Travel with Smile, which laid the foundation for VsnapU. The idea for VsnapU came from a client's request during my time with Travel with Smile. A friend wanted a photographer for his honeymoon in Kerala, and this sparked the concept of offering photography services as part of holiday packages.
I saw the potential and demand for capturing travel memories, leading to the conceptualization of VsnapU. The journey started by testing the idea in Munnar, generating revenue and gaining traction. Later, we sought guidance from IM Bangalore, and that's how VsnapU officially began its journey.
2. Congratulations on the success of VsnapU and being featured on SHARK TANK Season 2! Can you share the story behind the inception of VsnapU and its journey so far?
After centralizing the idea, we conducted a test in Munnar, pitching it to clients on holiday. In just 22 working days, we generated revenue of ₹1.5 million with two interns and two photographers. Encouraged by this success, we sought guidance from IM Bangalore. The journey on Shark Tank was a slow but fulfilling one. From applying to being selected, recorded, and eventually securing investment from Inflection Point Ventures, it was a transformative experience.
Shark Tank provided us with publicity, acceptance, and confidence in our idea. Lessons learned include the varied outcomes for both startups and sharks, the importance of due diligence, and the enduring advantages of being featured on the show.
3. Being in Shark Tank India, how was the experience, and what lessons did you take away from the process?
The Shark Tank experience was great but challenging. The journey from application to recording was long, but the day of recording marked a significant milestone as we had secured investment from Inflection Point Ventures. Shark Tank taught us about the promises made, the diligence process, and how outcomes can vary for both startups and sharks. The exposure and confidence boost was invaluable, making it a beneficial experience overall.
4. As a seed-funded startup by the Government of India AIC, how has the funding support contributed to VsnapU's growth, and what advice do you have for other entrepreneurs seeking funding for their ventures?
The AIC seed funding, though small, provided the initial boost and confidence to hire the first few people. It played a crucial role in the nascent stage of VsnapU. While the government support was unique and beneficial, there is room for improvement in post-investment support. My advice to entrepreneurs seeking funding is to start, as starting is key. Don't overthink; ideate, prototype, and eventually, you'll find your path.
5. What are your tips for first-time and aspiring entrepreneurs?
My tip for first-time entrepreneurs is to start without overthinking. Many spend too much time contemplating ideas instead of taking action. There's nothing to lose by starting, and even if you fail, the experience is invaluable. Keep ideating, keep prototyping, and eventually, you'll discover what you want to pursue.
6. Could you elaborate on the tech platform VsnapU has built for freelance photographers globally? What unique features or innovations does it bring to the photography industry?
The VsnapU tech platform allows photographers to sign up, and it connects them with job opportunities worldwide. The platform matches photographers with jobs based on visibility, time, location, and skill set. VsnapU solves the problem of creative photographers in small towns who possess the skills but lack marketing expertise. It provides opportunities for photographers to work on projects for major corporate clients in India based on their skill sets, ultimately benefiting both photographers and clients.
7. Can you share some insights into the challenges and successes you encountered in scaling a new product like Holiday Photography, offering photoshoots during holidays across 27 countries and 150 cities?
Scaling Holiday Photography posed initial challenges, but with a test run in Munnar, we gained traction. The revenue generated in a short period and positive client response encouraged us. We collaborated with leaders in the travel industry and individual travel agents. Formulating a community of photographers and acting as a bridge between photographers and clients, the tech platform facilitates global connections. Building this community and leveraging technology as an enabler are essential aspects of our success.
8. Looking ahead, what are your professional or personality aspirations and goals in this industry, and how do you plan to achieve them?
Our primary goal is to scale Holiday Photography globally. By contracting local photographers and onboarding them onto the platform, we aim to connect them with clients seamlessly. Having a background in travel has helped us understand the basics of itinerary planning, enabling us to fit photoshoots into travel plans. Working with leaders in the travel industry, we plan to expand our reach and establish VsnapU as a global platform for capturing travel memories.
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