From Hobby to Business: What I Wish I Knew

Starting a Photography Business – What I Wish I Knew Before | By Tate Smith

Feeling Overwhelmed as a New Photographer? You’re Not Alone

If you’ve recently found yourself falling in love with photography—but have no clue how to turn that passion into a real business—you are absolutely not alone.

You might be thinking:

• What if my photos aren’t good enough?
• What if I spend all this time learning and no one books me?
• What if I disappoint a client?

Starting a Photography Business – What I Wish I Knew Before

Those exact fears ran through my mind just 18 months ago. I was a mom to three very young kids, feeling the weight of postpartum blues and craving a creative outlet. I took a few Christmas card photos for friends… and something clicked.

That’s when I realized—I didn’t just want to take pretty pictures. I wanted to create meaningful art and give people a beautiful experience.

But I had no plan, no niche, and very little technical skill. Sound familiar?

Let me share what helped me grow from a nervous beginner into a confident small business owner.

1. Invest in Long-Term Photography Education

If you’re serious about building a photography business, you need more than YouTube videos or quick courses. While those can be helpful, what really made a difference for me was enrolling in a photography mastermind with long-term mentorship.

Programs that span multiple months give you:

• Consistent feedback on your work
• Clarity on business strategy
• A support system that keeps you accountable

I personally joined Unbasic Creatives, a mastermind led by photographer Hannah Mann. It completely changed the game for me—more on that below!

2. Build a Community, Not a Competition

Champion other photographers. It’s easy to fall into the comparison trap, but trust me—cheering others on will fuel your creativity and growth more than jealousy ever will.

Try this:

• Comment on other photographers’ work with genuine encouragement
• Make local connections by attending photo meetups or workshops
• Share others’ work on your Instagram stories and celebrate their wins

This industry doesn’t have to be cutthroat. There’s room for everyone at the table.

3. Try Different Photography Niches

If you’re unsure what type of photography you want to offer—that’s totally okay! You don’t have to niche down right away.

Test out different specialties, like:

• Children’s portraits
• Maternity and newborn sessions
• Headshots and branding photography
• Family or couple sessions

Through trial and error, you’ll discover what lights you up and what resonates with your audience.

4. Stay True to Your Style

One of the biggest traps for beginner photographers is chasing someone else’s editing style. Here’s the truth: there’s no one right way to edit photos. What matters is that your work reflects you.

Take time to explore different styles. I personally fell in love with the timeless, film-inspired look. After lots of Instagram scrolling, I found myself drawn again and again to Hannah Mann’s work.

I reached out to her—even though I was only one month into photography—and asked, “Do I even belong in this space?” She responded with kindness, encouragement, and a few questions about my goals. And then she invited me in.Her Unbasic Creatives mastermind taught me not just photography skills, but also how to run a business rooted in purpose, clarity, and authenticity.

You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out

I’m still learning. I’m still experimenting. But now, I’m running a growing photography business that allows me to be creative, support my family, and serve clients with heart.

If you’re just starting your journey and feeling unsure, here’s my encouragement to you:

• Take the next right step
• Ask questions
• Find mentors who believe in you
• And most of all—keep showing up

You don’t have to be perfect to start. You just have to begin.

Let’s Connect

Are you a new photographer trying to find your way? I’d love to hear from you.
Send me a message on Instagram, or leave a comment below. I know what it’s like to be in your shoes—and I’d be honored to cheer you on.

Starting a Photography Business – What I Wish I Knew Before

Hi, I’m Tate. I’m a Dallas based newborn & family photographer. I live in the Dallas area with my three littles. You’ll usually find me chasing my kids down the street with a lukewarm cup of coffee in hand while they scooter. I wouldn’t have it any other way!

As a former postpartum nurse turned family photographer, I have the unique ability to understand the highs and lows that come with motherhood. My hope is to help my clients feel beautiful, treasured, and valued for who they are.

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