In 2017, I wish would have known the following. Here 3 things I would have done differently when I first started my photography business.
In the beginning, things can be really exciting. You get an opportunity to do something you’ve always dreamed about and you’re able to make a living with your passion. But with that, comes a lot of learning on the go. The first few years of my career were full of mistakes and lessons I wish I had known before I started. Here are three (3) things I would have done differently when I first started my photography business.
Three (3) things I regret not doing
When I first started my photography business I was so excited to be able to work from home and build my business the way I wanted to.
I was so excited to build a business from the ground up and I wanted to be able to do everything myself. I wanted to make sure that I was doing everything myself so that I could be in control of my business.
- I regret not taking the time to find a mentor.
- I regret not having someone to help me when I first started out.
- I regret not taking the time to learn how to build my business.
Having someone in your corner rooting you on and encouraging you is extremely helpful! I have found several communities and tribes that are photography-based that help you stay focused and encouraged along your photography business journey.
Such as Facebook groups, online paid communities, and in-person photography organizations. Here is a list of several groups you can join today for FREE:
- PROFITABLE Mini-Sessions Tips & Tricks | Rebecca Rice Education
- Mom Photography 101
- Elena S Blair Photography Education
- Book More Photography Clients + Grow Your Photography Business
Three (3) things I would have done differently
I would have paid more attention to branding and marketing.
I would have taken the time to develop a brand and create a brand strategy for my business.
I would have also invested in becoming legal and learning the whole process of tax preparation. It is a piece of the puzzle that is necessary to grow efficiently and legally. These are the things I would have done differently when I first started my photography business.
Three (3) things I wish someone had told me
I wish someone had told me that it would take a lot of time.
I thought I would be able to make a little money with this “little hobby” of mine, but that wasn’t the case. It took TIME – lots of time to grow and get better. Learning how to use my camera, pose my clients, edit the images, deliver the images, and wrap up the whole relationship with proper reviews and testimonials.
I wish someone had told me that it is important to have a plan. I hadn’t considered the WHOLE client experience journey in the beginning and why a client relationship management software was SO important. It elevates the experience for my clients and makes the process streamlined and elevated. Their hands are held throughout each step and they are never in the dark.
I wish someone had told me that it is important to be persistent. It is a one-woman show. I am the photographer, CEO, blogger, writer, editor, accountant, software tech, social media manager, secretary, and inventory specialist. It can get overwhelming to the point that I am no longer showing up and doing what I love – taking photographs! Capturing precious moments of my own family is why I got started and do that for others. Persistence is key! (Here is an article about not giving up and how to stay positive.)
Conclusion
When I first started my photography business, I made some mistakes that I regret. I would have done things differently if I had known what I know now. I would have invested in professional photography equipment and hired a mentor to help me with my business. I would have also bought a website template sooner vs building my own. I would have also invested in joining more organizations, such as the Chamber of Commerce, and marketing to get my name out there. I would have also invested in finding a photography competition to enter. I would have also invested in a professional photography blog which is why I am now pouring into blogging daily – to spread the word and increase my SEO in the online world.
What are you doing to elevate your online brand?
