Today Facebook reminded me that five years ago, on January 22, 2013 I officially started my photography business, and oh what a wonderful five years it has been! I’ve learned many things that have helped me along the way, and today I’m sharing 5 Photography Lessons I’ve Learned in 5 Years of Business for others beginning their photography journey.
- It’s more about the photographer than the camera. My gear has evolved and improved over time, but I’m just as much in love with the many of the photos I took from weddings my first year as I am with the photos I take now.
- Understand that you’re not just photographing people, you’re photographing moments. Moments that only happen once. Let yourself feel what’s going on and follow your intuition. You can have a photo that follows every single ridiculous photography “rule” that there is, but the most beautiful and impacting photos are those that focus on the moment and the emotion in it. You have no idea how much a single photo can mean until the moment is gone.
- Taxes suck. No explanation is necessary on that one.
- Remember to not let photography overcome your personal life, and find the balance between photographing moments and being fully present and appreciating where you are. I struggled with this at first and spent every single family function so concerned about “getting the photo” that I distanced myself from my family at functions. Finding the balance allows me to capture the moment but also be fully present with my friends and family. (This is actually a huge reason why I encourage “unplugged” weddings!)
- Photograph what fuels you. This is key to avoiding burnout! Paid gigs are great, but sometimes they can take from you more than they put in. Photograph things/people/moments that nourish your creative spirit and drive you forward.
It’s hard to believe it’s been five years since you started this. You have such a talent, gifted eye and wisdom beyond your years. These are all good lessons, even outside of the photography world.