From Day One to $140K: How a First-Year Franchisee Built a TSS Success Story in St. Louis
When Durwood Tenny joined the TSS Photography family in December 2023, he wasn’t easing into business ownership—he was launching a full-scale, purpose-driven pursuit of excellence.
Serving the Greater St. Louis Area, Durwood brought energy, focus, and a willingness to learn that quickly translated into real results. In just his first year as a franchisee, he’s generated over $140,000 in gross sales—almost entirely from the youth sports photography market.
But what’s most inspiring about Durwood’s story isn’t just the numbers. It’s how he got there.
A Fast Start with a Clear Vision
Durwood didn’t waste a moment after joining TSS. He leaned fully into the training, embraced the TSS brand and systems, and took initiative in reaching out to local leagues and organizations.
His early efforts paid off in a big way. Just a few months after launch, he landed a massive little league contract, resulting in more than $16,000 in gross sales over two nights of photography. That single win helped set the tone for the rest of the year—and gave him proof of what’s possible when preparation meets opportunity.
“Durwood didn’t just enter the business—he showed up ready to compete.”
Leading with Innovation: The ViewFirst Advantage
Part of what makes Durwood’s approach so effective is his willingness to adopt new tools. One standout strategy? Embracing TSS’s ViewFirst system, which allows customers to instantly view digital previews of their photos before purchasing.
By creating a seamless, modern experience for parents and league organizers, Durwood delivered immediate value—and built credibility in the process.
A Family Operation on the Rise
Durwood isn’t doing this alone. His daughter, Kylee, plays a major role in the business as Vice President—and she’s proving to be an unstoppable force in her own right.
From booking one of the largest volleyball leagues in the TSS network to handling customer service with heart and professionalism, Kylee has quickly become a key driver of the St. Louis operation’s growth.
Together, this father-daughter duo is building what they call their soon-to-be St. Louis photography empire—one partnership, one picture day at a time.
Beyond the Lens: Chasing Greatness
When he’s not capturing memories for TSS, Durwood is traveling the world with Durwood Tenny Chasing Greatness, his personal brand dedicated to action photography of the world’s most elite wrestlers. What’s truly inspiring? He’s building his TSS business—and chasing greatness—while still working full-time in another career.
It’s a passion that fuels his creativity and sharpens his craft—whether he’s on the sidelines of a national wrestling championship or behind the camera at a local baseball diamond.
What’s Next?
If this was year one, imagine what’s ahead.
With momentum behind them, strong community connections, and the backing of the TSS Photography network, Durwood and Kylee are just getting started. Their story is a testament to what can happen when entrepreneurial spirit meets strong systems, trusted support, and family teamwork.
Interested in Owning a TSS Franchise?
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or looking for a new way to serve your community, TSS Photography offers the tools, training, and brand recognition to help you succeed.