If you have an eye for photography and love taking photographs, you are probably often told, “You should do this professionally!” While turning your hobby into a part-time career takes a lot of work, it can also offer you and your family many advantages. Here are some of the best reasons to start your own photography business.
1. You Will Love the Flexibility of Self-Employment
One of the best reasons to turn to photography as a new career path or side business is its flexibility. If you’re a stay-at-home mom or just someone with limited availability, being able to set your own schedule can be crucial. Even if you only have weekends free or a few hours each day while the kids are occupied, it is possible to start a photography business to bring in some extra money while developing your skills.
Being your own self-employed boss allows you to work from anywhere. Photography can be a good option if you are looking for a job that allows you to spend most of your working time at home. Many moms with young kids at home love the flexibility that being a self-employed photographer offers. On scheduled photo session days, you’ll be in the studio or on location, but many of your work hours will be spent at a computer, editing images, answering client questions, and doing other admin tasks.
2. You’ll Use Your Creativity
Turning your love of photography into a side gig will allow you to make money while pursuing your passion. While having an interest and a good eye for creating images are crucial to get you started, learning new skills and exploring creative ideas will advance your craft and help your business.
Each photographer has their own unique vision. You’ll spend hours using your creativity to develop a signature style. Being able to tap into your creative side every day while creating lasting images for other families is a very meaningful and satisfying way to make a living.
3. You’ll Make Extra Money
Starting a photography business from home can be a lucrative side gig, and making extra money for your family is a very reasonable goal. There is a lot that goes into starting a business, however. If you are still trying to figure out where to start, look into education programs that can help. You will even find combined business and photography school programs designed specifically for photographers who are starting their own businesses. For example, at Photography Business Institute, you’ll find business education, coaching, and certification programs to strengthen your skills and start you on the right foot.
4. You’ll Increase Your Social Circle
While you do many aspects of the portrait photography business owner's job solo, there are still plenty of opportunities for networking and building up your social circle. You'll be able to develop friendships with other photographers who love discussing lenses and lighting as much as you do. Courses, workshops, and local networking events are all great places to meet friends as well as collaborators for creative ideas and projects. As you start your business, you will likely run into challenges. Having photographer friends to turn to for guidance, understanding, and encouragement will be incredibly helpful.
Excellent portrait photography requires a strong human connection between the photographer and the subject. You may find that friendships blossom with some of your clients as well.
5. You May Have Opportunities to Travel
Many photographers find that the job offers opportunities for travel. You don't have to specifically be a travel or journalistic photographer to jet set for work. Portrait photography clients may seek out photographers for their specific style and vision, even if that means bringing them in from other areas. There is also the possibility that your own local clients may want to take you with them for family photographs on vacation. It doesn't hurt to offer!
Bonus Reason: You’ll Always Find a Market for Photography
There will always be a need for portrait photographers. Every family wants to capture the lives and the growth of those they love. A family portrait becomes an heirloom. With experience, and as your business expands, you'll find that even more opportunities open up. The ability to create a striking portrait or family photograph is a talent that will always be in demand.
It is possible to be a stay-at-home mom and still bring in an income doing something you love. You can develop your passion for photography while caring for your home and family. You could even hold onto your day job while starting a photography business. If you're looking for a way to add to the family finances, nurture your creativity, or make a shift in your career, consider turning your photography hobby into a lucrative and flexible side hustle. There is a wealth of resources available to help you get started.
