When I first launched my wedding photography business I had no money (& a ton of debt), was working full time, only had a couple lenses, and no backup gear. I worked through the early hours of the morning and sacrificed time with my family and missed some important personal events that I’ll never get back.
When I was in your position, I was seeking out advice left and right. I hustled like I have never hustled before and built a business with no wedding experience and no money to consistently making six figures. I say this not to boast or show- off, but to remind you of what is possible for you.
- Never stop learning. Seek out education and knowledge, but more importantly- just do it! Make a move on whatever you’ve been waiting to. You will learn along the way through experiences and mistakes. It’s only a regret if you don’t learn from it.
- Write down your “Why” and stick to it. Stop to consider your “Why” every time you make a move or decision within your business. It will help guide you and hold you accountable.
- Go to every networking event and talk to everyone. DO NOT hand over your business card within 5 minutes of meeting someone. It’s important to get to know the humans behind the businesses you will be working with. The wedding industry is a community- invest in them and you will have teammates for life.
- Don’t be afraid to create and stop comparing yourself to other photographers. Just because something works for someone else does not mean that it will work for you. I had my best year and my business took off once I created a website and brand that I was truly proud of. I cannot tell you how many times someone told me that using yellow would deter brides from hiring me… the year I launched my brand with yellow as the main color, I shot more weddings and made more money than I ever had before. Why did it work? Because it was me. It was complimentary to my work, I was proud of it, and the authenticity of it shined through and stood out.
- Get organized from the beginning. When you’re first starting out you won’t have a ton of clients to keep track of, but as you grow so will your client base. It’s important to keep good records because it will allow you the freedom to spend more time behind your camera instead of your computer. The number one thing I wish I had invested in when I first started my business was a solid client management system. I now use Dubasdo and it has help revolutionize my workflow. Use code kj20 for 20% off of your first month or year.
Bonus: Get a backup camera if you don’t already have one! I am beyond lucky that my camera didn’t fail me in my first year of business. When I look back now, I am so disappointed in myself for being so reckless with my couples’ memories. Having backup gear will relieve stress on you and save your booty if technology fails you.
My hope is that this advice will help you as you start on this amazing journey. More questions? Feel free to email me: Katrina@Katrinajayne.com
xx, Katrina
