A No Bullsh*t Guide to Starting Your Photography Business

Starting your photography business is no small feat, and if you’re here, it means you’re ready to take that leap. Let’s get one thing straight from the start: this journey will be full of creativity, passion, and yes—some hard lessons. But the good news? You don’t have to go it alone.

I’m here to share the wins, the screw-ups, and everything in between from my two decades behind the camera. Why? Because I believe in lifting the curtain and giving you the tools to build a business that’s not just successful but also deeply fulfilling.

Got Questions? Let’s Talk.

This blog series is for you. Have something specific you’re struggling with? Drop a comment or shoot me an email at hello@amandakraftcreativegroup.com. Whether it’s a quick tip or a deep dive into strategy, I’m here to help. Let’s cut the fluff and get real about what it takes to thrive as a photographer.

Mindset Is Everything—Facts Over Feelings

Let’s start with the cold, hard truth: starting your photography business is tough. You won’t post your first “Now Open” announcement on Instagram and have clients flooding your inbox. In fact, you’ll probably hear crickets at first. But that’s okay.

When I launched my business, I was filled with excitement. I imagined the inquiries rolling in and my calendar filling up overnight. Reality check? My inbox was silent, and I had to hustle hard to get those first few clients. And let me tell you, the initial excitement quickly faded when I realized how much work it would take to gain traction.

Here’s the deal: Your mindset will make or break you. Success in this industry isn’t just about talent; it’s about resilience, smart decision-making, and the ability to separate facts from feelings.

Pro Tip: Journal Your Journey

I wish someone had told me this earlier—journal everything. Write down your ideas, challenges, and even your wins. I started journaling during a particularly tough season in my business, and it was a game changer. Getting your thoughts on paper helps you see things clearly and avoid those knee-jerk, emotional decisions that can derail your progress.

Seek the Right Advice

Here’s another hard truth: Not all advice is good advice. Early on, I made the mistake of listening to people who’d never run a business. They meant well, but their guidance often led me astray. It wasn’t until I sought out mentors—some within the photography world and others in completely different industries—that I started to see real growth. Surround yourself with people who’ve been where you want to go.

The 6-Figure Myth: Let It Go

There’s a lot of hype around making six figures, but let’s get real: hitting that number doesn’t automatically equate to success or happiness. I’ve seen photographers stress over reaching that “magic” figure, thinking it’s the key to their dreams.

Here’s the deal: Will hitting six figures really make you happy? Does it fit with the life you want? I once heard a business coach boast about her $500K revenue, only to reveal that after spending on outsourcing, marketing, and overhead, there wasn’t much left.

Don’t buy into the idea that you’re not successful unless you hit six figures. If making an extra $500, $1,000, or $2,000 a month changes your life and you love what you’re doing, your photography business is already a win.

Here’s my advice: Define success on your own terms. Maybe you want to work part-time while still earning enough to travel or spend time with family. Maybe your goal is to hit a specific monthly income that lets you live comfortably. Whatever it is, stay focused on your vision, not someone else’s.

Grow Slow, Grow Smart

When I first started, I wanted everything now. More clients, more bookings, more money. But you know what happened? I burned out—hard. The rush to grow too fast nearly broke me.

Build with Intention

Take your time to lay a solid foundation. What kind of workload feels sustainable to you? What systems and processes can you put in place now to make things easier later? I learned the hard way that slow, intentional growth beats rapid expansion every time.

Avoid the Overwhelm

One of my biggest regrets was taking on too much, too soon. I said yes to every project, thinking I had to prove myself. Instead, I found myself drowning in deadlines and losing my love for photography. Don’t make the same mistake. Set boundaries early, and don’t be afraid to turn down work that doesn’t align with your goals.

Don’t Quit Your Day Job (Yet)

Look, I get it. The dream is to go all-in on your photography business. But unless you have a financial cushion, keep that day job for now.

When I started out, I balanced a full-time job with weekend shoots and late-night editing sessions. It wasn’t glamorous, but it gave me the security to take risks and invest in my business without worrying about paying the bills.

Side Hustle Smart

Use your day job to fund your photography dreams. Save up for gear, invest in a killer website, or take a workshop to hone your skills. When the time is right, you’ll know—and you’ll be ready to make the leap without the financial stress.

Your Health Is Non-Negotiable

Let me be real with you: This business can take a toll on your health. In my early years, I was constantly hustling—late nights, skipped meals, no exercise. Eventually, it caught up with me. I gained weight, my energy plummeted, and I found myself struggling to keep up.

Prioritize Self-Care

Now, I make time for the gym, meal prep, and mental health breaks. Because here’s the truth: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself so you can show up fully for your clients and your business.

Upcoming Posts in the Series

Here’s what’s coming up next:

Building Strong Client Relationships

How to turn first-time clients into lifelong fans. From setting expectations to delivering an unforgettable experience, this post will cover it all.

Studio Policies That Save Your Sanity

Contracts, payment terms, cancellation policies—boring but essential. Let’s make sure you’re covered.

Trading Work for Exposure: Worth It?

We’ve all been tempted by the promise of exposure. I’ll share when it’s a good idea and when to run the other way.

Collaborations That Elevate Your Brand

Partnering with the right people can take your business to the next level. Let’s talk strategy.

Crafting a Website That Converts

Your website should be your best salesperson. I’ll show you how to make it work for you.

Build Your Business, Your Way

Starting your photography business is one hell of a ride, but it’s also one of the most rewarding journeys you’ll ever take. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up, I’m here to help you navigate the twists and turns.

And remember, this is just the beginning. If you want more hands-on guidance, click here to book a 1:1 strategy session with me. Let’s build the business of your dreams—together.