Things are definitely starting to pick up with my photography business. The weather is getting warmer and people are booking sessions for the summer (which is very exciting). Last weekend I had two sessions, and when I came home from each of them John asked me two simple questions “How did it go?” and “Did you have fun?”. I was sweaty, tired, and coming down from the adrenaline rush of the session. “Fun” wasn’t the first word that came to mind as I looked down at my grass stained jeans and felt my sore legs. I am still getting used to the stress and nerves I feel during each session. I just want everything to go well and, most importantly that all the photos turn out beautifully in the end. I know that with practice and time I’ll be able to juggle those feelings better. But for now, sessions are slightly physically and mentally exhausting. I do enjoy them and like meeting new clients and kids. But I did get a little concerned when I couldn’t answer John with a definite “Yes! It was fun!”. I mean, didn’t I start this business because I love it? Shouldn’t it be fun? My answer came as I started sifting through the photos from the session. With each photo I edited I started relaxing more and more. And after a few minutes I really was having fun. I discovered that the ultimate fun comes when I realize I really did get some beautiful shots. When I realize that I did my job, and I did it well. Come one, how could anyone not have fun looking at the photo above?
That’s so great! Yeah, sometimes we have to remind ourselves why we’re doing this and then when we see the results it’s all worth it. Great capture! And best wishes on the continued success of your business!
Sweet capture!
I have been getting busy with gigs lately, and have been worried that they would not go well. And then I start editing…
You totally spoke to me with this 🙂
Great photo!!
Eventually – I’m sure – you’ll learn to relax..and trust in yourself and your vision. This is a beautiful image…sweet baby…great laugh and big smile.
What a nice way to start my day.
How exciting for you! I love the photo. It’s encouraging to hear your story.
Right on. I felt like I wrote this myself. Continue having fun!!
What a beautiful capture. Hearing of your photography business makes me wish…
congratulations! i have been contemplating the same issues. having a dream to do more than just a hobby i wonder will it kill the fun? i cannot imagine it would but would fuel my desire to do more , do better. so your words are right there in line with that and encouraging. great job! many new clients to come your way!
xo kristin
What a great capture! Don’t you love it when you sit down to edit and find you have great shots like this? Glad your photography business is going well for you.
beautiful photo!! and yes, it is fun, in a different kind of way. a way where families welcome you into their homes and lives and you get to meet these amazing kids who literally shine light out from themselves. but mentally exhausting is right too. it’s hard work because you love what you do. i think looking through the photos is the reward at the end of the day! congratulations on your busy summer!
Thank goodness I’m not alone! I always get sick to my stomach before a shoot and freak myself out that I’m not going to get any good shots and everyone will realize I don’t know what I’m doing. But, then I get home start editing and feel that wonderful "high" a get from photography. Sigh. One day it will go away. Right? RIGHT?! LOL
i can completely relate to your post, i am just starting out my business also, and am a bundle of nerves during the sessions. i find the best part in the after also, know that i got that aha shot.
Your photos are gorgeous! I have to believe your clients are very pleased with the way you capture their child’s personality. Keep it up!
Hi Paige! I can totally relate. I still get a little nervous before every session because they’re all different. I love this shot! 🙂
I’m so glad you are enjoying your photography business even if it is after the fact. I would love to begin to do some things I can sell. I have a good friend who is a wedding photographer and I want to ask her to tag along sometime just to watch and maybe even click myself to see if I get anything good. I think my biggest "fear" is that I hate being perceived as "the photographer". Isn’t that crazy??? Being 6’2" tall there’s no "not noticing" me with a camera in my hands. Any advice???
Julie
I’ve been doing this for almost a year now and I still get those same nerves. Yesterday I got home with dirty feet and told my husband that was the WORST session I’d ever shot. He then replies "You say that every time." Once you get the computer and start editing, you start to relax a bit! I completely understand how you’re feeling.
You are extremely talented so you have nothing to worry about! 🙂