What I Wish I Knew When I Started My Photography Business

Starting a photography business is exciting, overwhelming, and, let’s be honest—a little terrifying. When I look back at the beginning of my journey, there are so many things I wish I had known. I made mistakes, learned lessons the hard way, and spent years figuring things out that could have been so much easier if someone had just told me upfront.

So, if you’re just starting your photography business (or even if you’ve been at it for a while), here are the things I wish someone had told me from day one.

1. Your Pricing Should Reflect Your Value (Not Your Fear)

This has been one of the hardest things for me. When I first started, I charged way too little. I thought if I kept my prices low, I’d attract more clients. And sure, I got bookings—but I also found myself overworked, undervalued, and barely making a profit.

What I wish I had known? Pricing isn’t just about what clients will pay—it’s about what your time, skill, and expertise are worth. Set your rates based on the cost of running your business, the time you put in, and the value you provide. And please, don’t price yourself based on insecurity.

2. Not Every Client is Your Client (And That’s Okay!)

In the beginning, I wanted to book everyone. I said yes to every inquiry, even if the client wasn’t the right fit. This led to burnout, misaligned expectations, and sessions that didn’t fuel my passion.

The truth? The right clients will value your work, trust your vision, and respect your prices. Don’t be afraid to niche down, set boundaries, and say no to clients who aren’t a good fit.

3. Invest in Business Education, Not Just Gear

I used to think that upgrading my camera would magically make me a better photographer. While good equipment helps, it’s not nearly as important as learning how to run a successful business.

I wish I had invested in courses, mentorship, and resources on marketing, client experience, and pricing earlier. You can be the most talented photographer in the world, but if you don’t know how to get clients, run a business, or market yourself, success will always feel out of reach.

4. The Client Experience Matters More Than You Think

Your photos are important, but the experience you provide is what keeps clients coming back. People remember how you made them feel.

I wish I had focused sooner on making the entire process—booking, communication, session day, and delivery—seamless and enjoyable. Quick responses, clear expectations, and making clients feel comfortable in front of the camera make all the difference.

5. Social Media is Powerful, But It’s Not Everything

When I started my photography business 16 years ago, Instagram wasn’t around. When it did become popular, I poured all my energy into Instagram, thinking that’s where all my clients would come from. While social media is a great tool, word-of-mouth, referrals, and real relationships matter just as much (if not more).

I wish I had focused sooner on networking, building client relationships, and getting referrals rather than obsessing over likes and followers. Social media trends change—connections with real people don’t.

6. Perfectionism Will Hold You Back

I used to overthink everything—my website, my portfolio, my editing style—waiting for it all to be perfect before putting myself out there. But here’s the thing: perfection is an illusion.

What I wish I had known? Done is better than perfect. Put your work out there, take messy action, and refine as you go. You’ll grow so much faster when you stop waiting for the “perfect” moment.

7. Success Takes Time—Be Patient & Keep Going

I used to compare myself to photographers who had been in business for years, wondering why I wasn’t at their level yet. What I didn’t realize was that success takes time.

I wish I had given myself more grace in the early years of my photography business. Every successful photographer started where you are. Keep learning, keep improving, and trust that growth happens step by step.

Final Thoughts

If you’re just starting out, know this: you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Learn from those who have been where you are, invest in your education, and give yourself permission to grow.

And if you’re looking for guidance, I’d love to help. Whether it’s through mentoring, courses, or just cheering you on, I’m here for you.

What’s one thing you wish you had known sooner in your photography journey? Hit reply and let me know!