Building a Business: It’s Okay to Grow Slow

Building a Photography Business Through Motherhood

By Angie Kauffman / Photos of Angie and her children are by Jessica Mae Photography

My Journey Building a Photography Business Through Motherhood

When I first picked up a camera, I had no idea where it would lead me. It started simply—with a thoughtful gift from my husband on our wedding day: my very first DSLR.

At the time, I didn’t have a business plan or a dream of becoming a photographer. I was just a newlywed, photographing anything and everything that brought me joy—mugs of coffee, food, cozy corners of our home. But people… people were always my favorite. I started practicing with my sisters and quickly realized how much I loved capturing emotion, connection, and life in its simplest forms.

My Journey Building a Photography Business Through Motherhood

Learning the Craft

About a year into marriage, I got the chance to assist a local photographer. I learned how to shoot in manual mode, what gear worked best, how to interact with clients, and how to handle the world of wedding photography. It was a crash course in real-life experience, and I soaked up every bit of it.

Soon after, friends began reaching out, asking me to take their photos. My little side hobby was beginning to grow into something more. I was excited, nervous, and full of ideas.

Then Came Motherhood

Just as things were gaining momentum, I found out I was pregnant with my first child. Overnight, my priorities shifted. I was learning how to be a mom, how to care for a newborn, and how to run a tiny business—often all at the same time. I’d work during nap time, sneak editing in during quiet pockets of the day, and navigate new motherhood with a camera always nearby.I know I’m not alone in this. So many women begin their photography journey in the early stages of motherhood. There’s something about welcoming a baby into your life that makes you want to freeze time, to bottle up every little moment and keep it forever. That desire to capture becomes deeply personal.

The Comparison Trap

But it was also hard. I remember spending hours reading my favorite photographer’s blog (this was before Instagram was the place to be). I’d wonder:

How did she grow so fast?
Why is her work so good?
Why is she so busy, while I’m barely getting any inquiries?

I compared myself constantly –  my work, bookings and progress. I wanted to be where someone else already was. I wanted to be better, faster. And yet, at the same time, I wanted to be home, present and unhurried.

My Journey Building a Photography Business Through Motherhood

The Truth About My Dreams

The truth is, being a mom was always my biggest dream. I never set out to chase a career or build a brand. I wanted a house full of kids, the chaos of everyday life, the warmth of family. And thankfully, I was never under pressure to grow my business quickly—at least not from the outside. The only voice rushing me was the one in my own head.

Growing Over Time

Over the years, I’ve grown this little business during pregnancy complications, NICU stays, homeschooling seasons, and even a global pandemic. I’ve wiped tears, kissed boo-boos, made countless meals, and created a home that’s full of love and learning. And in the in-between moments, I’ve also grown as an artist and a small business owner.

It didn’t happen fast—but it happened.

A Final Word of Encouragement

If you’re reading this and feeling behind, let me say this clearly:

It’s okay to grow slow.
You don’t need to hustle your way to success to be worthy or valuable.
You don’t need to be constantly booked to be a “real” photographer.
You can love your babies and build something beautiful at the same time—even if it takes years.

Photography will be there when you’re ready. Business will come in its own time. But the little ones around you? They won’t stay little forever.

I wouldn’t change a thing about my journey, even though it’s looked nothing like I imagined. I hope you can say the same someday.

So here’s your permission slip: Grow slow. Be present. Build a life, not just a brand.

You’re doing better than you think.

My Journey Building a Photography Business Through Motherhood

Hi, I’m Angie — wife, mama to three, homemaker, and a family & newborn photographer based in Lancaster, PA. Since 2012, I’ve been capturing heartfelt, timeless images inspired by my love for family and home. When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll find me savoring hot coffee, snuggling my kids, tending to my garden, or decorating our home.

I believe in slowing down and seeing the beauty in the everyday. My passion is helping families preserve their lives through photographs that make you smile, tear up, and wish for time not to fly by so fast. Your legacy is worth remembering.

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