Starting and running a business has been one of my life’s most rewarding and challenging journeys. As a photographer and business owner, I’ve experienced a lot of highs—and more than a few lows. In this post, I want to get real with you. I want to share the most challenging parts of running my business and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. This isn’t some polished version of my story, but the messy, authentic reality of what it’s like to turn a passion into a livelihood.

Patience Is Harder Than You Think

The hardest part about running my business is being patient with myself. There’s a lot to learn and a lot to juggle. As someone who strives for excellence, it’s tough when I realize that things won’t always happen on my timeline. I have to constantly remind myself that I’m still growing, learning new skills, and figuring out how to build a solid client base.

Building a business isn’t an overnight success story—it’s a slow burn. Some days, I’m ahead, and some days, I feel like I’m falling behind. However, one of the biggest lessons I’ve had to learn is to embrace this process and understand that mistakes are part of growth.

Selling My True Potential: A Constant Struggle

The second most challenging part of my journey has been trying to sell the world on my true potential. I’ve learned that finding people who appreciate your skillset is a rough road. It’s not that they’re not out there—they are—but it takes time to find the right people who resonate with your vision and believe in your abilities.

This struggle has been both humbling and motivating. At times, it’s easy to feel overlooked or misunderstood, but I’ve realized that finding my audience, my tribe, is just as important as the work itself. It reminds me that my worth doesn’t need to be validated by anyone other than myself. With each project and each new person I work with, I get closer to finding those who truly understand and value what I do.

Seasonal Depression & Winter Struggles in Chicago

Living in Chicago adds another layer of complexity to my business. The long, cold winters and the seasonal depression that often accompanies them can make it hard to keep up with the business’s demands. When I didn’t have a studio space, everything slowed down in the winter months. My company would hit a lull, and it was tough to maintain the energy I needed to keep pushing forward.

But things are different now. By partnering with other studios, I’ve built a support system that helps me navigate these slower months. I’ve found a community that supports my vision and reminds me I’m not alone. It’s a relief to know that there are people who understand and are there to help me grow. I no longer feel isolated or discouraged when the weather gets dark.

The Temptation of Gadgets & the Reality of Business

When you first start a business, it’s tempting to think you need all the latest gadgets and gizmos to be successful. Trust me, I’ve been there. But the reality is that you need income first before you can start making those kinds of investments. The equipment can wait. The skills? They can’t. I’ve had to remind myself over and over again that a great photographer isn’t defined by their gear. Their creativity, ability to tell stories through the lens, and capacity to connect with their subject define them.

The Challenge of Growing as a Photographer

Photography isn’t just about studying techniques or reading books. It’s about practicing and refining your eyes and skills. Early on, I found it easy to be good at one thing but not all things simultaneously. I could capture a great shot, but problem-solving on set or directing a team took time, experience, and mentorship.

It’s easy to feel frustrated when you’re not where you want to be, but I’ve learned that this is part of the process. With practice, I’ve started to balance everything better. I’m still learning, but I’ve gotten much better at problem-solving, directing, and working within the rhythm of a shoot. It’s a journey, and I’m grateful for how far I’ve come and for the mentors who’ve helped me along the way.

Working With My Wife: The Ultimate Test

Working with my amazing wife is one of the most rewarding parts of running my business. She’s not just my business partner; she’s the heart of everything I do. But let me tell you—it hasn’t always been easy. Balancing work and personal life is an art. We had to learn to stay in our lanes and respect each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

At first, there were times when we would drive each other crazy. The lines between business and home life would blur and take a toll. But we stuck with it, learned to communicate better, and discovered a rhythm that works for us. Working together is one of the best parts of running my business. We complement each other in ways that make us dynamic and stronger. I couldn’t be a better partner in business and life.

Advice for Young Photographers: Keep Going

My advice for anyone reading this who’s just starting in photography or business is simple: Keep shooting, keep learning, and most importantly, know your value. There will be times when you doubt yourself, feel like you’re not feeling fast enough, or feel that the world doesn’t have potential. But trust me, it will come. It takes time, patience, and a lot of hard work, but it’s worth it.

You don’t need the latest gear or the biggest studio to succeed. You need a passion for what you do, the willingness to improve, and the courage to push through the hard times.

So here’s to face the struggle, learning from it, and growing through it all. And if you’re feeling like someone just starting, know you’re not you. We’re all ringing it out as we go, but you’ll get it with persistence.