Let’s talk about something that’s not always the most glamorous aspect of our business but is absolutely crucial for our success: money mindset. Yep, we’re diving into the world of pricing, scarcity, and the empowering magic of knowing your numbers.

So, first things first: PRICING. 

It’s tempting to look around at other photographers in your area and base your rates on what they’re charging. But here’s the truth bomb: you don’t need to do that. Seriously. Your worth isn’t determined by what someone else is charging. Your skills, experience, and the value you bring to your clients are what matter most.

Think about it this way: there are billions of people on this planet, and guess what? There are plenty of clients out there for everyone. Embracing an abundance mindset means believing that there’s more than enough work to go around. So, instead of worrying about what your competitors are doing, focus on what makes you unique as a photographer. What sets you apart? Maybe it’s your storytelling approach or your knack for capturing candid moments. Whatever it is, own it, and let that shine through in your pricing.

Now, let’s tackle the dreaded scarcity mindset. This little gremlin likes to whisper in our ears, telling us that there’s not enough to go around—that if we don’t lower our prices or hustle harder, we’ll miss out on opportunities. But here’s the thing: scarcity is just an illusion. It’s fear talking, not reality.

When you operate from a place of scarcity, you’re more likely to undersell yourself and overextend yourself. But when you shift to an abundance mindset, you open yourself up to a world of possibilities. You start attracting the right clients—the ones who value your work and are willing to pay for it. And you’re able to set boundaries and say no to projects that aren’t the right fit.

Now, let’s talk about the power of knowing your numbers. I know, I know, it’s not the most exciting part of being a photographer, but trust me, it’s essential. Knowing your numbers means understanding your expenses, your revenue, and your profit margins. It’s about being in control of your finances rather than letting them control you.

Start by tracking your expenses. How much are you spending on gear, marketing, and other business-related costs? Once you have a clear picture of your expenses, you can determine how much you need to charge to cover those costs and make a profit.

Next, take a look at your revenue. How much are you bringing in from your photography gigs? Are there any patterns or trends you can identify? Maybe certain types of shoots are more lucrative than others, or maybe you’re booking more clients during certain times of the year.

Finally, crunch those numbers and figure out your profit margins. How much are you actually making from each shoot? Are you pricing yourself too low? Too high? Finding that sweet spot takes time and experimentation, but the more you know about your numbers, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed decisions about your pricing.

So there you have it: mastering your money mindset is all about ditching the comparison game, embracing abundance, and getting cozy with your numbers. It’s not always easy, but trust me, it’s worth it. Because when you have a healthy money mindset, you’ll not only thrive as a photographer, but you’ll also feel more confident and empowered in your business. And that, my friends, is priceless.