5 Mistakes You’re Making in Your Photography Business // What You Can Do to Fix Them
Running a successful photography business isn’t just about capturing beautiful images. It requires strategy, organization, and a willingness to adapt. Unfortunately, many photographers unknowingly make mistakes that hinder their growth. Let’s dive into five common mistakes photographers make and, more importantly, how you can fix them to elevate your business.
1. YOU DO NOT HAVE AN ONLINE BAKCUP OF YOUR PHOTOS
Losing client images is every photographer’s worst nightmare. Whether it’s due to a crashed hard drive, accidental deletion, or theft, not having a reliable online backup can be catastrophic.
How to Fix It: Invest in cloud storage solutions like Backblaze, Dropbox, or Amazon Prime Photos (which offers unlimited RAW storage for Prime members). Implement a 3-2-1 backup strategy: three copies of your images, stored on two different types of media, with at least one stored off-site. Automation is key—set up backups to run regularly so you never have to think about it.
2. YOU AVOID USING ARTIFICIAL LIGHT
I will preach this over and over. There undoubtedly will come a time when the venue, the weather… the WHATEVER it is ... will force you into a crappy lighting situation and if you know NOTHING about creating light. Natural light is beautiful, but relying on it exclusively limits your ability to shoot in diverse conditions. If you find yourself canceling sessions or struggling in low-light situations, it’s time to level up.
How to Fix It: Start small by learning how to use a simple speedlight. Experiment with off-camera flash, continuous lighting, or even reflectors to shape light creatively. Enroll in online courses, attend workshops, and practice in controlled environments. Mastering artificial light will give you confidence and flexibility in any scenario.
3. YOU ARE NOT NETWORKING IN PERSON
Photographers often rely on social media for marketing, but there’s no substitute for in-person networking. If you’re not connecting with other creatives, potential clients, and industry professionals face-to-face, you’re missing out on valuable opportunities.
How to Fix It: Attend local networking events, styled shoots, and industry meetups. Join professional organizations like PPA (Professional Photographers of America) or local photography groups. Building genuine relationships can lead to referrals, collaborations, and long-term success.
Model // My little guy, Atlas Wilder
4. YOU DON’T USE A CRM TO STREAMLINE YOUR BUSINESS
If you’re manually handling inquiries, contracts, invoicing, and scheduling, you’re spending unnecessary time on admin work. A CRM (Client Relationship Management) system can automate these processes, ensuring a seamless client experience.
How to Fix It: Use platforms like Dubsado, HoneyBook, or Studio Ninja to manage workflows efficiently. Automate contracts, invoices, and follow-ups to free up your time for more shooting and creativity. A CRM helps you stay organized, appear more professional, and prevent important tasks from slipping through the cracks.
5. YOU ARE WORKING TOO MUCH (AND BURNING OUT)
Passion often drives photographers to take on too much, but overworking leads to burnout, decreased creativity, and even resentment toward your business.
How to Fix It: Set boundaries by defining your work hours and sticking to them. Charge appropriately so you’re not overloading yourself with low-paying work. Outsource tasks like editing, bookkeeping, or social media management when possible. Prioritize self-care and take breaks to stay refreshed and inspired.
The key to long-term success in photography isn’t just talent;
it’s about making smart business decisions.
By addressing these common mistakes, you can create a more sustainable and profitable photography business.
Which of these areas do you need to work on? Start making improvements today, and watch your business thrive!
➡️ Looking to take your headshot or branding photos to the next level? Let’s chat! ⬅️
GEAR USED
Canon R5
Canon 70-200
Kupo Click Stand
Impact Umbrella + Diffusion for Umbrella
MoneyMaker Dual Camera Strap
***affiliate links*** I may be paid a small commission for items you buy. Read my affiliate disclosure here.
Model: Atlas Wilder Dickinson
Photographer: Tausha Dickinson
About The Author
My name's Tausha Dickinson and I'm a photographer specializing is headshots, fashion and commercial work. I live in Franklin, TN, just outside of Nashville, with my husband and my son!
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