Need a name opinion

[Bella]

So I'm thinking about building my own website in anticipation of building a photography business. A photographer friend of mine suggested that I use my name, because if people want to find me, the first thing they'll search for is my name online.

Here's the thing . .. personally, I think my first name, Cindy, sounds kinda immature. And I think my full given name, Cynthia, sounds to formal (and besides, if anyone calls me Cynthia, I think I'm in trouble!)

So my questions to you are these . .
1. Do you agree with the advice my friend gave about using my name in my business name/website?

2. In your opinion, does Cindy sound too "young"? (I know this could just be my personal bias)

Thanks in advance for the answers and advice.

-Cindy

[LoungeLizard]

Finding a name is the first step in a brand. Rather than just ask for advice and listen to friends, I recommend you write down what YOU want to represent to your clients. What your goals, objectives, "image", etc., are. Once you have that list in place, start thinking of a name that conveys that.

[OTRphoto]

^What he said^

Plus leave yourself open to pick up clues from other sources...

I'm not a fan of my name either.. espically my last name (got divorced and just kept the name to make it easier on the kids while they were still in school) So several years back I was trying to come up with a domain name (for my personal site) and spent a couple of months of adding "dot com" to the end of every sign, book, street, person etc I came across trying to find one that sounded right. Then one day I was driving and opened a new CD from a friend of mine. Scanned the back cover as I was sitting at a red light and just started putting "dot com" at the end of each song (cause desperation had sunk in.. lol)

One just kind of had a nice ring to it and stuck in my head. I emailed him and asked if I could use it.. and he agreed. I've become so attached to it - that I use it for my business name now as well..

Good luck in your search!!!!