3 Mistakes That Held My Photography Business Back (And How to Avoid Them)

The Problem

In the hustle of growing my business, I put my health on the backburner. Long editing nights paired with poor eating habits left me drained, overweight, and far from my best self. My turning point? A rock-bottom moment in my closet, surrounded by clothes that no longer fit.

The Solution

I revamped my morning routine, embraced nutrient-dense meals, and stopped sacrificing sleep for work. The results were transformative—not just for me but for my business. Losing 60 pounds, earning certifications in holistic health and personal training, and feeling energized even after long wedding days, I found that prioritizing wellness created ripple effects of success.

The Takeaway

When you take care of your health, you take care of your business. Energized and focused, you’ll be better equipped to handle the demands of running a photography business while delivering exceptional results for your clients.

The Problem

Early on, I let competitors’ pricing dictate my own. This led to underpricing and undervaluing my work. Worse, discounting my services often attracted clients who didn’t appreciate the true value of what I offered.

The Solution

Once I began pricing my services based on their true worth, everything changed. My dream clients came knocking, and I gained the financial freedom to focus on the projects and events that mattered most to me. The hard truth? Not everyone is your client, and that’s okay.

The Takeaway

Stop chasing low-budget clients. Research your market, understand your unique value, and set your prices accordingly. This shift will not only boost your revenue but also attract clients who align with your vision and respect your expertise.

The Problem

For too long, I wore all the hats in my business—photographer, marketer, admin, and more. The result? Burnout. It wasn’t until I started outsourcing that I realized how much time and energy I was wasting on tasks that weren’t my strengths.

The Solution

Outsourcing to a virtual studio manager was a game-changer. By delegating tasks like client communication, scheduling, and admin work, I freed up time to focus on what I love: creating stunning imagery and crafting unforgettable client experiences.

The Takeaway

Stop chasing low-budget clients. Research your market, understand your unique value, and set your prices accordingly. This shift will not only boost your revenue but also attract clients who align with your vision and respect your expertise.

Running a photography business isn’t without its challenges, but you don’t have to repeat my mistakes. By prioritizing health and wellness, valuing your work, and embracing outsourcing, you can sidestep burnout and pave the way for long-term success.

Remember, your journey as a photographer is about more than just taking photos. It’s about building a life and business that truly align with your dreams. Start today—your future self (and your dream clients) will thank you.