Episode 280 – 7 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming A Full-Time Portrait Photographer

DBB Fall Challenge Sarah

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Photography Business Institute
Photography Business Institute

The game-changers I learned after leaving my corporate job to become a photographer

27 years ago, I left a well-paying job in marketing to chase my dream of photography—and I’ve never looked back. But if I could go back and coach that younger version of myself, these seven lessons would have saved me years of stress, hustle, and financial struggle.

So if you’re dreaming about going full-time (or already are, but it’s not paying off yet), this episode is for you.

So if you want to turn your passion into a profitable, life-giving business, hit play and enjoy the episode!

1. Ditch the Digitals

Selling high-res digital files might feel easy, but it’s a trap.

  • Creates a race to the bottom on price
  • Leaves clients confused and underwhelmed
  • You work hard and earn very little

Instead? Offer printed art that brings joy to your clients every day and sustains your family financially.

2. Know Your Numbers

You can’t build a business on guesswork.

  • What’s your average order?
  • How many sessions do you want each year?

Use that data to plan a real business strategy—one that gives you time and profit.

3. Busy ≠ Profitable

You can be booked solid and still be broke.

  • Stop focusing on tasks that feel productive
  • Double down on marketing, selling, and photographing
  • Price for profit or you’ll burn out fast

4. Create Demand Year-Round

You’re not a farmer praying for rain—you can make it rain.

  • Slow season? Use creative campaigns like Pooch Playoffs
  • Partner with businesses, give back to your community, and get new right-fit clients
  • No more feast-or-famine cycles

5. Show Big to Sell Big

Clients won’t invest in what they can’t see.

  • Display large samples in your studio or sales meetings
  • Help them visualize big, beautiful art in their homes
  • What you show is what you sell

6. Gear Doesn’t Matter

You don’t need a studio, flash setups, or multiple cameras.

  • One camera. One lens. One reflector.
  • Focus on connection, not gear
  • A $50,000 order proved it

7. There’s No Such Thing As a Portrait Emergency

Set boundaries. Protect your family time.

  • Work by appointment. Communicate clearly.
  • Clients will respect your hours—and value you more
  • You’re not an ER. You’re an artist and a business owner.

Recap:

These seven truths helped me build a business that pays well and gives me the freedom to raise my kids and love my life. You don’t need to work nights and weekends. You just need a better system.If you’re standing where I once stood—nervous, uncertain, but ready—I want you to know: you can do this.

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