French Photographer Captures His Best Year Yet in Tampa Bay
French Flare of Pasco County
When Léo-Paul Horlier relocated from France to Tampa three years ago, he brought with him a decade of experience in photography and videography. Back home, he operated as a solopreneur, but as he settled into Florida, he envisioned something more structured for his U.S. venture. He launched his photo and video services company, French Flare —offering professional headshots, event photography, and videography—with the goal of establishing a sustainable business.
As a newcomer to the U.S., navigating business regulations felt overwhelming. “Coming from a foreign country and not knowing how to develop my business here, I wanted to talk to somebody official who could help me basically launch the business, but also, of course, develop it,” Horlier shared. That led him to the Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County, where he began working with business consultant Retta Parsons.
With guidance on startup requirements, marketing strategies, and business development, he quickly began seeing results. “Since working with the SBDC, my business, I can say with confidence, has grown tremendously. I grew my clientele base, I was also able to develop the video side of my activity, and get some guidance on marketing,” Horlier said.
His progress reached a major milestone when he achieved his highest-earning month in 10 years of working as a photographer—his best month ever, even compared to his time in France. “Since I’ve been doing what I’m doing with photo and video, for 10 years, I got my biggest revenue here in Florida in the month of last May,” Horlier explained.
Today, Horlier’s business enjoys steady income, a larger client base, and renewed confidence in the Tampa Bay market.
The business owner continues to meet with the Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County for ongoing guidance and encourages others to do the same. “You might have a great idea, you might have a great product, but if you’re not able to talk to somebody about your business every day I think it can be quite difficult. So that’s why I advise everybody to talk to [Florida] SBDC,” Horlier said.
