If I could hop in a time machine and visit my new-photographer self, I would lovingly shake her by the shoulders and say: “Girl, you do NOT have to learn everything the hard way.” 😅

Because the truth is, when I started my photography business, I made all the rookie mistakes. I said yes to everything, I priced myself way too low, and I thought if I just posted pretty pictures on Instagram, the clients would magically appear. (Spoiler: They didn’t.)

So today, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing exactly what I’d do differently if I were starting my photography business from scratch. If you’re still in the early days (or ready to make a shift), take notes—because these are the moves that get you booked and thriving faster. ✨

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1️⃣ I Would Treat It Like a Business (Not Just a Passion Project)

In the beginning, I told myself, “I just love taking photos!” Which was true—but loving photography and running a profitable business are two very different things.

If I could start over, I’d:

✅ Get serious about pricing right from the beginning (hello, profit!)
✅ Set up systems for contracts, invoices, and communication (HoneyBook would have saved me SO much stress)
✅ Track my expenses and income like a boss—not on sticky notes and a prayer

Running a business professionally from Day 1 = attracting clients who treat you like a professional.

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2️⃣ I Would Niche Down Sooner

At first, I photographed everything. Babies, families, seniors, pets, that random guy’s new car… you name it.

From Hobby to Booked Out: What I’d Do Differently If I Were Starting My Photography Business Today

If I could hop in a time machine and visit my new-photographer self, I would lovingly shake her by the shoulders and say: “Girl, you do NOT have to learn everything the hard way.” 😅

Because the truth is, when I started my photography business, I made all the rookie mistakes. I said yes to everything, I priced myself way too low, and I thought if I just posted pretty pictures on Instagram, the clients would magically appear. (Spoiler: They didn’t.)

So today, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing exactly what I’d do differently if I were starting my photography business from scratch. If you’re still in the early days (or ready to make a shift), take notes—because these are the moves that get you booked and thriving faster. ✨

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3️⃣ I Would Build an Email List From Day One

Oh, baby. This one. 🙌

I spent years chasing followers on Instagram when I could have been growing my OWN email list—a list of dream clients I could nurture and book directly.

Why email? Because:

📬 You own your list (no algorithm drama!)
📬 People check their inboxes more than they check social media
📬 Email nurtures trust, which leads to bookings

Flodesk makes building and managing an email list ridiculously easy—and yes, I’d 100% start using it from day one. (Grab 50% off your first year with my link!)

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4️⃣ I Would Stop Worrying About What Everyone Else Was Doing

In the early days, I was glued to what other photographers were charging, shooting, and posting. All that comparison? It just kept me stuck.

What I should have done:

✅ Focus on my own growth and goals
✅ Define success on my own terms
✅ Remember that confidence attracts clients—not copying what’s trendy

The sooner you tune out the noise, the faster you’ll find your people and build your version of a thriving business.

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5️⃣ I Would Prioritize Client Experience Over Everything

Gorgeous photos will only get you so far. But when your clients feel seen, heard, and cared for? That’s when they become repeat clients and referral champions.

If I could go back, I’d:

✅ Create a smooth and clear booking process (again, HoneyBook = lifesaver)
✅ Send thoughtful prep and follow-up emails
✅ Surprise clients with small, meaningful touches along the way

A seamless experience makes you unforgettable—and keeps your calendar full.

If I could do it all over again, I’d skip the chaos and start with clarity, confidence, and simple systems.

Your photography business doesn’t have to feel like a guessing game. You can grow it intentionally, and you can do it without burning out chasing trends. Focus on your people, your process, and your experience, and watch your business flourish. 🌱

Ready to get serious about running your business like a pro? Start with the right tools:

✨ HoneyBook for your client management (50% off with my link!)
✨ Flodesk for your email marketing (50% off with my link!)

Your future self will thank you. 😉

✨ When you niche down, you:

• Get known for something specific (which makes you referable!)
• Attract clients who truly value your