Let’s be real for a second…

Have you ever looked at another photographer and thought, “How do they have it all figured out?” I’ve been there—scrolling, comparing, wondering what I was missing. Truth is, there’s so much we don’t talk about when it comes to starting out in photography.

Whether you’re brand new to this or a few years in and still figuring it out (hi, same), here are 5 things I wish someone would’ve told me when I picked up my first camera.

1. It’s Not About the Gear (Seriously!)

When I first picked up a camera, I was obsessed with gear. I thought the secret to stunning photos was the fanciest camera and the most expensive lens. Spoiler alert: it’s not. You can have all the latest equipment and still not know how to tell a story through your images.

Real Talk: Start with what you have. Learn how to use your camera really well. Focus on things like light, angles, and connection—those will carry your work so much further than a pricey lens ever will. Great photos come from vision, not just equipment.

2. Photography Is Also a Business

Taking pretty pictures is only half the hustle. Once I started working with paying clients, I realized I also had to be the admin, the marketing team, the customer service rep, and the finance department. It’s a lot—but it’s what keeps the creative part going.

Advice from experience: Take time to learn the business side. That means contracts, communication, systems, and knowing your worth. Use tools that help (hello, HoneyBook), and don’t be afraid to outsource or ask for help when you’re overwhelmed.

3. Rejection Isn’t Personal (Even When It Feels Like It)

Whew—this one took me a while to learn. I used to take every “no” to heart. But the truth? Rejection happens to everyone. It doesn’t mean you’re not talented. It just means that wasn’t your person, your client, or your time.

Pro tip: Use rejection to grow, not shrink. Get feedback from people you trust. Let it sharpen your craft, not kill your confidence.

4. Your Style is Your Superpower

In the beginning, I tried to match what everyone else was doing. Pinterest-perfect edits, trendy tones, all of it. But nothing felt like me. The moment I gave myself permission to shoot and edit in a way that felt authentic, everything changed.

Encouragement: Explore, experiment, and then own your style. People are drawn to YOU—your story, your eye, your energy. That’s your magic.

5. There’s Always More to Learn

There is no “made it” moment in photography. Even now, I’m learning new techniques, pushing myself creatively, and getting inspired by other artists. This industry is constantly evolving—and the beauty is, so can you.

Keep growing: Watch the tutorials. Try something new. Ask questions. Stay curious. Being a student of your craft will never go out of style.

Final Thoughts:

This journey? It’s not always easy. But it’s worth it. Keep showing up. Keep creating. Keep telling stories through your lens. The more you lean into your growth, your voice, and your passion, the more your work will speak for itself.

Let’s keep growing, learning, and capturing magic—one click at a time.

Want to simplify your business and save a little while you’re at it?

If you’re ready to get organized, streamline your workflow, and actually enjoy the backend of your biz (yes, it’s possible!), here are a few tools I personally use and recommend: