How are you doing, Empowered Photographer?

I want to share a simple yet powerful truth with you today: Becoming a successful photographer starts with showing up like one. Have you ever heard the phrase “fake it till you make it”? It’s a bit cliché, but it’s the secret behind many success stories, including my own.

When I began to carry myself as if I were already the most sought-after photographer in Seattle, that’s exactly what I became.

What Does It Take to Be a Successful Photographer?

Let’s be honest—success doesn’t happen by accident, and it doesn’t come to those who sit around waiting for “one day.” To become a successful photographer, you need to take bold steps today, not someday.

Here’s how I went from dreaming about success to living it:

1. Adopt the Right Mindset
   Early in my career, I’d look at other photographers and think, “One day, I’ll have a business like theirs.” That mindset held me back. The truth is, waiting for “one day” doesn’t lead to success—it leads to stagnation. When I decided to act like the successful photographer I wanted to be, my career transformed.
2. Show Up Like You’ve Already Made It
   I told everyone about my photography business. I implemented new offers, participated in local events, and networked like I was already the best in the business. Even when I didn’t feel ready, I showed up. Within a year, I was earning nearly as much as I did in my previous career as a nurse. More importantly, my calendar was booked months in advance.
3. Take Consistent Action
   Every successful photographer has one thing in common: they take consistent action. I didn’t wait for a sign or a perfect opportunity. I showed up every day, put in the work, and believed in my ability to succeed.

Where Am I Now?

Because I took those early steps, my business now:

• Generates multiple six figures annually.
• Captures hundreds of families a year across family, newborn, and school photography.
• Employs a small, talented team of photographers.

I didn’t wait for someone to tell me I was ready. I decided to show up as a successful photographer long before I felt like one.

You Can Be a Successful Photographer Too

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment, let this be your sign. You already have what it takes to succeed. Here’s how you can start:

• Act as if you’re already successful. Speak, work, and present yourself with confidence.
• Do the work today. Don’t wait for inspiration or the “perfect” moment.
• Commit to showing up. Consistency is key to building a thriving photography business.

Make 2025 Your Year of Success

2025 is here, and it’s your time to shine. Start showing up for yourself and your business like the successful photographer you are.

Every day you wait is a missed opportunity to move closer to your dreams. So, take the leap, do the work, and believe in yourself.

This is your moment. You’ve got this. Let’s make 2025 the year you turn your dream into reality.

By implementing these steps and showing up with confidence, you’ll not only grow your business—you’ll become the successful photographer you’ve always dreamed of being.

Do you want to get bit sized photography business tips delivered right to your earbuds? Come listen to my private podcast Empowered!