I might pee myself right now.
Just a warning.
This is probably the scariest thing I have done in a long time. But since I told myself that January was my time to do something that puts the thrill of fear in my blood, here it is.
You may laugh. You may say that this is not frightful at all. But to me…well, I would rather stand on the edge of a 70 story building without a railing. I would rather pet a lion. I would rather give birth to a 18 pound baby. without drugs. in a cab. behind a dumpster….I am literally shaking.
Here goes…
I want to be a photographer.
please stop laughing. I am being serious.
Saying this outloud is ridiculously hard. I know I won’t be the best photographer ever. I probably won’t even be the best photographer for children’s portraits in my small little town. But I want to try.
So why is this so scary?
Well, I am afraid of failing. My mother probably is shaking her head right now. You see, it’s kind of a long story. I didn’t finish college. I am that girl. I went for five years. To three different schools. I had over 150 credits. Crazy huh? I know…I would be ticked at my daughter too. But I never felt like I failed at it. Not even a little. I just feel like I didn’t finish something I didn’t want. I went to school for Bio Ed…and in my education classes they taught me that you don’t learn for a degree…you learn for the sake of learning. You learn for the benefit of your brain…not your resume. And I bought into it. I agreed. It made sense. It’s why you teach kids with terminal illnesses. It’s why people audit classes. It’s learning for the sake of learning. And you know what? I didn’t want to be a teacher anyway! I never got that piece of paper that gave me the right to brag or party as a college grad. To the world, I failed. But I don’t mind. Sure, it would be nice to hang on the wall…but I would never EVER use it. I don’t WANT to be a teacher. I WANT to be a photographer.
I want to be part of people’s beginnings. I want to be present for those moments when a baby smiles in their sleep. And when that couple feels so much love for one another that it pours out of their eyes. And when that teenager has accomplished their own academic success – I want to document that. I want to show people how I see the world. I want to share how I see their world. I want to capture the innocence and love and joy and beauty here…NOTHING makes me happier than holding onto those moments. It may be a crazy nostalgic way to think about the world…but we have such a short time here….why not celebrate that gift as much as we can, right?
So that’s it…my dream. I want to be a photographer. It’s actually getting easier to say. But now comes the part that makes me almost as uncomfortable as saying it. Putting myself out there.
I created a photography website. (and that is where I will put all the future photography shoot photos!)
If you are interested in getting photos taken – I WOULD LOVE TO DO THAT! All the info is on the website. I can’t wait to hear from you! My rates are seriously low for our area. I did the research. But I still need to add a ton to my portfolio before I consider it a decent size. And the other reason I charge so little is because I am a big believer in affordable photos. When I was wedding-photographer-shopping, it struck me that I probably couldn’t afford all the photos I wanted. All the photogs were charging for their time and then for prints. I didn’t want prints. I wanted a cd. So that is what I want to provide for one low cost – my time shooting and editing, and then a cd of the images. You can print them willy-nilly. Send them to everyone you know. I am not going to charge you $20 for a 4×6 that you can order online for 18 cents. That way – you can share your beautiful little one, your growing family or your announcement of love to the world. without selling your kidney. or donating plasma.
So there you have it. My very scary thing.
Okay – now commence laughter.
Katie! We’re moving back from Nashville to Marietta (where hubs is from) in 1-2 years to start our family. We will definitely call you to do maternity/baby shoots! {if you’re not too famous by that point} I’m so happy for you. Being honest about a dream is totally scary- because failing is scary. But what’s even scarier is not going for it in the first place. You go girl!
I’m in the Atlanta area as well, and it would be awesome to know someone in the biz when I might need it (I’m unmarried, so that’s lots of future photog potential). You’re at the top of my list!
And might I add, congrats on the heaping pile of guts it took to choose to do this! You will be wonderful. Just trust your instincts!
Never think you have failed. If we continue looking for love from the world, then we’ll always be disappointed. Although I finished college I didn’t finish Graduate school and I feel like I’m in the same place you are. You see, my scary moment, involves really wanting to be a WRITER. We’ll see about that but as long as the Lord leads our lives we’ll know that whatever we do, whether we fail or succeed, He’s cheering us on.
And by the way, you take AMAZING photographs:)
Your photos look amazing Katie! Best of luck on your scary adventure.. 🙂
LOl Guess what? I totally KNEW for a fact this was what the scary thing was, I’m not kidding! I knew you would do this because its so OBVIOUS how much you love it, and duh, don’t even try to pretend, you’re awesome at it!
The other day I somehow was able to read your old blog, (yea, insert stalker joke here) and I remember seeing your first post about taking photographs, you were doing it for a friend – and I remember thinking WOW, it totally looks like you’ve been taking pictures for years!
If I lived anywhere near you I’d TOTALLY, like right this second, pay for you to take my engagement photos. You are gonna be great!
Congratulations! The photography website looks beautiful. I think it would be a good idea to put somewhere on there what geographic area you cover.
You have GOT to start giving yourself some credit! You take amazing photos and I’m so glad you’re embarking on a career path that you love. How many people can say that? Best wishes with your new business. You are very, very talented. God bless!
p.s. Bill Gates never finished his degree either.
Well I NEVER laugh at your photography, unless they are funny … you know … meant to be funny. Whatever. I love the photos you take. You capture some amazing pictures of your baby. Amazing. I’m not laughing at all. I think you will be great.
Katie,
I have been reading your blog for a while and am a huge fan! I think you are an excellent photographer and am so excited for you and proud of you for putting yourself out there! I had a similar resolution, do something scary…and this week I had myself measured and calipered. After having 3 kids in the last 3 years that was scary for me! As was my first body pump class today! So I am totally feeling your post, and cheering you on!
Ange
The funny thing is that you already ARE a photographer, and a great one to boot! In my book, you are on the same blogger/photographer tier as Pioneer Woman. Seriously. I just assumed you were charging for your photography this whole time.
Katie- WAY TO GO, doing that something scary. I find it encouraging… although I want to be so many different things!! You’ve definitely got the talent, why not put it to good use and get paid for it, so you CAN be a stay at home mommy for Will! Wishing you the absolute best as you go after this scary thing!!
Not gonna lie… I totally saw this coming! It’s about time!! For reals. Thank you so much for sharing and putting this all out there like you do. I just know you’re going to do great!
you just have to promise us that as you get better and better that you’ll share everything you’re learning!! I love your photo’s and want to learn from you!
That is a wonderful resolution – it might be scary for you to say it out loud, but I think all your readers have seen your great pictures and know you’ll be – heck, you already are! – an amazing photographer. I’d love to have my pictures taken by you. If only I didn’t live on the other side of the ocean!
I also think it’s a great business idea that you give out CDs with the pictures. Would you consider printing them out yourself if someone asked for it?
I wish you all the best in this new part of your life. Although I’m sure you’ll do great.
congratulations, katie! it takes a lot of…we’ll go with guts 😉 to take this kind of leap. you’re going to be a phenomenal photographer. the photos you put up here are pretty fabulous so it seems like a natural progression to those of us that have been reading for awhile. drink some pepto them pop open some champagne, gal! this is a very exciting time in your life!
I had a hunch this was going to be the scary thing. I think it is amazing that you are going to do this and there is no reason for anyone to laugh, you are really good at it. I secretly want to be a photographer too but my skills and talent aren’t really there. I can’t wait to see how God uses you at this and I will for sure be looking at the pics you take.
You should go for it!!! I know someone who has done exactly what you are describing (minus the college part). She is a WAHM and now photographer. Check out Nicole Faby Photography. It can be done! Good luck!
My husband does freelance stuff and really just engagement shoots for friends. but his advice would be to invest in a few good lenses, sign up for professional flickr and start with friends and work from recommendations.
Congratulations! I am sure it will be a natural transition for you! I so so so so so wish you lived in my hometown 🙁
Congrats Katie! That’s really awesome. My friend, Kelli, did the same thing a few years ago. She’s in Montana – you should check out her blog sometime – I think you have similar styles –
http://www.blog.kellitrontel.com/
Are you familiar with the blog Chatting at the Sky? It is beautifully written, and often the one blog I continue to think about through out the day. I hope the author doesn’t mind me sharing this here (as I don’t know her personally), but she is writing a wonderful series about creating “art” and this post reminded me of it. I hope you find it inspiring and may you be blessed in your new adventure!
http://www.chattingatthesky.com/
Katie, I am so happy for you! And girl – what took you so long?! I know you were having a baby and everything, but you have so much talent! I prayed it would only be a matter of time before you went pro.
xo
Sarah
p.s. When I was camera shopping and considering the XSi I emailed you and you were so sweet in your reply. I ended up buying that I love it. I also bought the little macro/wide angle doo-hicky that you recommended and I love that as well – so I hope you continue to share little tips and equipment that you’re using!
Good for you! Putting yourself out there to be judged on something you truly love and are passionate about doing is definitely a scary thing. So big props to you for taking this step and good luck – I think you’re gonna do great!
Congratulations! The website look great, we’re all rooting for you out here in blogland…have fun! Just have fun =)
Congratulations! I don’t live too far from you (about three and a half hours), but I wish I was closer because I’d LOVE for you to shoot our baby when she’s born in a few months. I’m very excited for your new venture– you’re so talented!
Don’t feel scared to admit you want to be a photographer…you already are one! Just a sidenote, but I went on your website and couldn’t find out in what city you’re based. I know it’s near the Atlanta area, but only because I read your blog. If I just went to the photography website I wouldn’t know. Just wanted to give you a heads up! My husband and are are going on vacation in Atlanta in the summer (my family is from there and we live in Spain) so we will definitely set up something…that is if you’re not already famous and booked for every day of the week!
Shut up! I just got married two months ago, and I totally would have loved some KB photography for my engagement/wedding photos. Our wedding photographer from Snellville (www.jessfoutsphoto.com if you want to check out the competition; we’re the first two photos on her website!) was awesome, but I’m all about supporting the bloggers. My husband is from Loganville, and we are up there all the time even though we live in middle Georgia. When the time comes for maternity photos I hope you’ll still be a photographer. 🙂
I am so proud of you!
Way to go with what you want to do!! I secretly want to be a photographer someday too… now I just have to learn how to use my camara! 🙂 I have never really admitted that to too many people – I think it is scary to tell people – but maybe someday! Way to go! I really admire that is was something you wanted to do and you are doing it!
I’m going to have to second Mary-Beth’s comment. You ARE a photographer. You are awesome. Your photos are amazing, and you always seem to capture everything so perfectly. You are such an inspiration to those of us a couple of years behind you photog wise. Trust me, I’m one of them. 🙂
Congrats, Katie – you can do it! You already ARE doing it! So impressed. Love your site, btw!
You are incredibly talented with a camera…I’ve always thought so! I wish I was in the Atlanta area!
Congratulations! I know it can be scary, but you have made the first step which is the hardest. Actually saying that you want to do it! The website looks great and I wish you much success, you’re going to do great!
good for you! i’ve always thought you take such wonderful photographs. i’m sure you will be very successful. good luck!
I knew it! And while I understand the being scared – starting new things almost always involves some degree of fear – I am 100% confident you will succeed at this. You are talented and passionate! I only wish I lived closer – I’d be your first official “booking!” 🙂
Girl you need to realize that you do an AMAZING job already! I know it’s easier said than done but as an outsider looking at your pictures, believe me when I say that you have nothing to worry about! If you’re ever in the Philly neighborhood I have an adorable niece who is just itchin’ for some professional pictures! I wanted to buy a session for my sister when she was born a couple of months ago but everyone is too darn expensive! I wish you the best of luck with your new lil business and your soon to be crazy schedule. And I love your reason behind wanting to do this, truly genuine reason which will make your pictures even better!
Katie, your photos are beautiful and you should always follow your heart! You have nothing to be afraid of with this resolution!
One thing you should add to your website is the area where you’ll photograph (greater ATL, your home/backyard, your traveling fees, whatever) and where your home base is. Also include a phone number/email address/contact info. Maybe that’s in there and I didn’t see it, or maybe it’s coming now that you’ve made it official, but I just wanted to mention it!
Best wishes to you!!
I’m usually a total non-commenty reader, but I had to post something to give you some words of encouragement. I think it is WONDERFUL that you are going to be a photographer! I know when I see my baby niece playing or my family members in a certain light, I instantly wish I had a way of sharing that exact moment in the exact way I see it so that I could share that beauty with other people. I’ve always thought that the photos you post here do exactly that. You have a true talent for capturing those happy little things, and I know these families will be thrilled to bits when they will be able to share them. I’m only sad I’m all the way out in California, or I’d be signed up for a session as soon as possible!
You’re already an awesome photographer, and you know what? I think you’re going to be brilliant as a professional photog!
WHY are you doubting yourself? You have been inspiring me for weeks and I have done more than one impromptu shoots with Baby REOlistic and they improve with each one as I use your tips and learn from your posts. YOU CAN DO IT!
Congratulations, Katie! You’re going to be fantastic. 🙂 Your photos are amazing and I really can’t see you failing at this. I like the photography website. Good luck!
I too am one of those girls with “some college” and that’s about it. It’s so understandable to be a little afraid of starting your own business! You obviously have studied photography and you obviously have a natural talent to capture the emotions of your subjects. You can’t go wrong. :0)
Congratulations!!!!! : )
Katie, that’s awesome!! You’re going to do great, and you have the perfect hear for a photography speaking from one to another! GO FOR IT!! You’ll be great!
How great for you!!! I wished you lived closer so I could snatch you up for my maternity/newborn shots (I’m due in July)… if you ever make it to St. Louis, can I steal you for a day?
I thought this might be your little secret announcement. You’ll be fab at it. I always love your photos and can’t wait to follow your work. Too bad I don’t live in GA near you!
You are Brave. Braver than I am for sure…. saying “it” IS hard.
I bet I never say “it” I bet I never know what “it” is.
So I am proud of you. just. for. that.
Congrats! You take beautiful photos and have a great style! If I could I would fly you out here to Denver to take some maternity shots of me and my hubs since it’s our first baby. Love your photography website! Could you make a website for me??? I always enjoy looking at your wonderful photos.
Katie – First, I LOVE your blog. I’ve been your #1 stalker for a while now. =) I admire your courage to follow your passion for photography, and I know you’ll be successful (you seem to be pretty great at everything you attempt). I wish I could book you for my maternity photos!!! But I live in Tennessee. Stupid geography! =)
Good luck! You take beautiful pictures! Wish we lived closer…we’d love some KB photos!
I know where you’re coming from, Katie. I didn’t finish college either (also after attending three schools) because I couldn’t pick just ONE thing I wanted to major in… I didn’t know what I wanted to be when I grew up (and still don’t!). Dance was my life until I graduated high school, but I had no chance at it professionally thanks to some injuries and after teaching (dance) for a few years, I didn’t feel like that was the right fit either. Once I got out of that world and into college, I found SO many things I was interested in and wanted to learn about that I got frustrated because I felt forced to choose between them all. I didn’t want to end up with something I felt obligated to stick with because I had invested so much time & money to get the degree for it.
Instead, I pay the bills with a job that I know is not a permanent fixture, and take fun classes at UGA’s Continuing Ed Center… like photography! Starting Monday, I’m finally going to learn how to get the most out of that Rebel I’ve had for over a year!
Have faith in yourself, girl! You have a great eye and your love for life and all it’s emotions definitely shows in your work. You will be a wonderful photographer and when the hubs & I are thinking about taking some new pics, you’ll be hearing from me =)
Anyone who laughs at this totally stinks! I’ve been following you for awhile and after every photo post I totally think “she should do this professionally!” No joke. I love your photos and if I ever get around to actually learning how to use my nice camera and Photoshop, your tutorials will be one of the first I read. Plus I’m totally keeping stuff in mind for when I’m photographing my own kids – I love your Will photos!
So, good luck! You can do it! If I lived anywhere near you, I’d hire you.
You take wondeful photos Katie! So excited for you to start following your dream!
From one photographer to another, you’ve got it! Take the leap, you have nothing to lose and you already have the talent 🙂 Congratulations on all of the wonderful things going on in your life, good things come to good people.
Congratulations! Your pictures are great. I’m sure you’re going to do awesome.
You’ll be great, from the photos I’ve seen on this blog.
Congratulations! I think the hardest part is just putting yourself out there and getting started – if it’s what you love and you put your heart into it you will succeed! My sister-in-law is a photographer and something she does that you might try is to do “photo parties”. Several families get together for an afternoon and she does mini sessions with each of them – maybe there’s a discount for each family or something? Just something to think about and might help you reach more people.
Katie, if I had the money and you didn’t live at least a thousand miles away from me, I would hire you in a second. The wedding pictures you took kicked the pants off of the pictures my professional wedding photographer took. Your candid snapshots of Will are better than anything I’ve ever paid a photography studio for. You are awesome and you’ll probably be booked solid within a week.
Love it! I wish I lived in the same city, or even state! You did a great job on the website. It looks very professional and I love how colorful it is. Keep it up KB!
You can do it! I have been doing photography for a long time. The biggest and most important thing to invest in is a great camera and editing software. Getting into the biz is not hard though! So don’t be scared! The first wedding I ever did I was SO nervous! I mean..this is a one day gig and if I mess it up I will ruin their wedding! Just have fun with it. 🙂
I’m so happy for you and I’m sure you’ll do VERY well! God bless this endeavor and I hope it grows into something you never could have imagined!
Katie- coming from a fellow photographer, I think you are brave and amazing. Your images are gorgeous and you have quite a talent. I also love your mission to allow everyone affordable photography. The prices out there these days are outrageous. Good for you, once I convince my husband to move south (we’re in Boston) I’ll definitely be purchasing some shoots from you!
SO, SO excited for you! Wish I wasn’t all the way in South Dakota, or you’d be my first call for our family photo session with our puppy! 🙂 Blessings sent your way, and yay for bravery!
Wow, awesome! Don’t be afraid, your website looks great! I want to be a photographer too, but I am not in a place where I feel QUITE comfortable yet with actually jumping in full force, but I think it’s soon! Good luck!
Just wanted to wish you all the best – its a great thing to have to courage to follow your dreams 🙂 Kudos to you!
Site and photos look awsome!
“I want to be a photographer.” Kind of thought you already were! You’ve posted AMAZING photos, and I’m sure you’ll have a fabulous client list by the end of the year! I’m so happy for you! 🙂
katie– you are awesome!!!! you are going to be an amazing photographer and i would hire you in a second if i lived in the state!
thank you for confessing that you didn’t finish college. i didn’t either, after 4 years… 3 1/2 of which were successful… and then I just couldn’t do it any more. I was done. I thought living life was more important than spending time doing something I hated. Not a very mature decision… but that’s what happened.
anyway. thanks.
Congrats Katie!! Your website looks wonderful and I’m sure you will be very successful 🙂
Katie….stop saying you WANT TO BE a photographer. You ARE a photographer, and an amazing one at that!!! Come out to California – I’d love for my family to have their pix taken by you ANY TIME. Good luck Girl!!
AH Katie! I wish I lived in Georgia and not Arizona, I’d totally have you do my engagement pictures. You are an incredible photographer and I wish you all the luck in the world! 🙂
Congratulations! I just started my photography business in June (www.lindseylyonsphotography.com). If you ever need advice or anything please don’t hesitate to ask!
I do have one piece of advice. Instead of giving your client a copyright release you should give them a print release. The difference is that w/ a copyright release you are giving them ownership of the photos. They can do ANYTHING to them they want (edit, use for marketing for other things, etc.). A print release means they can print, make books, invitations, etc. as they’d like. You want to retain ownership of the photos you take. Technically if you give them copyright they can sue YOU for using the images b/c you no longer “own” them.
Have fun! You have a great eye!
It’s obvious that God has given you a gift…so glad to hear you’ll be using it. The big confession wasn’t all that surprising. I was more surprised to find out you weren’t already a photographer! Shoot for the moon!! Or shoot the moon…?
You can totally do this Katie! Your photos are beautiful and I’ve been wishing I could have you photograph my three year old daughter for awhile – and now I can! We live in Alpharetta so we’re not too far away. I’ll definitely have to contact you about it soon!
Nothing is scary when you are following your dreams and passion. And by looking at your photos, there is nothing to be scare about.. you are truly a natural behind the lens.
Congratulations on your baby steps to your ultimate dream in not time at all you will be running towards it.
You can do it!! Your pictures are awesome!
Hey Katie!
Ive never commented, but I LOVE your blog, and I feel like I already know you!
Your photography site is gorgeous, and I wish you the best with it. If I lived closer, I would be calling right now to book my session!
Congratulations! I have LOVED looking at your photos for as long as I have stalked your blog:) You are going to be amazing!!!
Katie — First time leaving a comment. I’d hire you in a heartbeat if you lived nearby. You’re going to do great. So glad you’re finally taking the plunge…(we could all see it coming!)
Awww you’re too cute; it’s not funny at all! I think your photos are lovely and there’s nothing better than practice. If you ever visit NoVA and the DC area we’ll have you take our picture. Stop by for a house crashing, I’ll make you some cupcakes. xoxo
Congratulations on taking your big, scary step! I have been stalking your blog for awhile now but have never commented, and I always LOVE your photos! Making the decision to do what you really want to do instead of what other people might think you should do is always a scary step.
PS- whoah creepy! Did not realize I basically wrote the same thing as the last comment showing before mine!
Hi Katie,
I’ve been following your blog for some time now – I love your attitude, your style and your honesty. I think you will be an amazing (you are) photographer and I wish you all the success you so deserve. Would you ever consider coming to Florida????
I too have a little boy (he’s eight months old), doesn’t sleep, very fussy, lots of feeding issues so your honesty and your passion for life has been infectious over the last few months – thank you!
Katie, If you were in DC, I would hire you in a second! But, if you were in DC, you would charge about $300 for the same services so such is life 🙂
I don’t know you but I am so unbelievably proud of you for doing this! Your site looks great and professional and very welcoming to families and children. I just love the photo shoots that you have posted on this blog, so I am glad to see you using your talent!
Hey Katie! My husband and I live in the Atlanta area and I would LOVE for you to take my maternity pictures! I’ve been into amateur photography for a long time and really enjoy looking at your pictures and reading your tips. I’m at the end of my 1st trimester right now, so when summer finally comes, I will definitely book a session with you!
I’m so excited for you! That is awesome! I only wish you were even semi-sorta close to me. A few years back we lived in Valdosta, but the chances of returning there are pretty slim. I think the closest we might get is Charleston. 🙂 Anyway, if there’s ever an opportunity that we’re close to you or you just happen to be traveling close to us, you can be sure that I’ll be giving you a call to come capture a little piece of our family. Way to go for going after a dream!
Just wanted to say I love your photography and good luck to you! I think you’re in the South somewhere but I can’t remember where. I didn’t see it anywhere on your new site, but I could be missing something…
I figured that’s what it was!
You’ll be great! Your work and your tutorials have taught me so much, and I’ve been complimented on my photos of my son that I post on FB or my blog. Thanks to you! (You also gave me confidence to get a Canon, which my photographer friend tried to talk me into (she has a Nikon but wanted to switch to Canon) but I was clinging to Nikon loyalty until you expressed your love for your Canon and a guy at the camera shop explained it in terms of how I would use it and therefore fit better with the Canon. I am so happy with my camera, lens, and inspiration like your photos to keep me working and learning on my hobby.
And you’re the type of photographer I love! My friend (above) also did that…low price for time and editing, and a CD to print however many, wherever I chose. My FIL is a photographer (whose style I don’t like), but he charges ridiculous prices for his prints. It’s so wrong!
Thanks for sharing your talent and knowledge with us readers, and BEST OF LUCK on your new business!!
You have no idea how much I wish I lived in your state…. I would hire you in a second! Your photographs are wonderful and I wish you all the luck in the world.
I wish I lived closer…I’d hire you to take my family’s picture in a heartbeat!
I’m so excited for you! You are so talented & your clients are going to be so lucky to have you capture their special moments. Your Web site looks wonderful…can’t wait to see more!
This is perfect for you, you will definitely have lots of fun.. the biggest failure is to never try. Cliched but oh so sure. Big hugs and excitement coming your way from me! xo
Elisa
You’re an awesome photographer. Can you come to Australia to photograph us?
Martha xo
To you it may have been scary to say out loud, but I think to those of us who follow your blog it’s been obvious for a while now! As many others have said, I wish I lived closer and I hope you’ll continue to share your tips and pics with all of us – they’re totally inspirational!
Hi Katie! I love reading your blog, and I looked at your new photography site. I noticed that you don’t mention your location anywhere on the site (as far as I can tell). It seems like that would be important for potential customers to know, and including it would probably help you pop up in search results.
You know what Katie, I wanted to run a marathon some day. Eventually, I got into shape and decided “this is the year I do it.” (it was actually four years ago). Once I made the decision, I never looked back. I faithfully trained and ran that marathon. It convinced me I could do anything.
We are not all meant to do all things. But each of us has inside a deepest wish, the thing we can’t *not* do. For you, it seems to be photography. For me, that thing is writing. A year after I finished the marathon I decided I would finally write the novel I’ve been talking about since I was a teenager. Once the decision was made I never wavered, and though it’s taken over three years to finish, I am about to start querying agents.
Sometimes when I think “I’ve written a novel,” I can’t believe I did it. Sure I want it to be published too, but just the knowledge I followed through and did it is precious and priceless.
It all begins with that scary thing–making the decision, making the announcement, and then following through with the commitment. I think you’ll be a great photographer and I wish you all the best going forward.
Katie – you are an amazing photographer! And as long as you believe in yourself – just know you’ve got a whole lot of fans rooting for you on all over the country!
Oh and I didn’t once laugh – I cheered for you! And then I wished I could afford to fly you out to Texas to photograph my June wedding. Can’t wait to see all the great photos!
About time! You not going out to shoot the world would be a misfortune. I am glad your heart and mind have combined to make the move! I just wished Chapel Hill/Durham was close enough to Atlanta so you could shoot my baby girl. I am fretting that she is three months and I have no photos! If you and Jeremy every take a road trip to the great area and well you just cannot wait to get home to shoot, call me! LOL.
No one is laughing. Your photographs are amazing. Beyond amazing. Words can not describe — you are truly talented and should go for it! I love looking at every photo you post, they are always stunning.
If it makes you feel any better I have 92 credits sitting around for elementary ed at two different schools, when I went to transfer to Utah State where my hubby was going they were only going to take 17 of those 92 credits….. THEN I went to cosmetology school because it would only take one year. AND I finished school but was put on bed rest the same week I finished….nope, I never took the tests! Blah…. and I would really like to be a Realtor… but I don’t dare tell my family! hahaha. :O) Congrats on telling the world your dream!!!!!
You’re photos are awesome, Katie. I bet it is scary to put yourself out there like that since you have so much photography on the site. It is like saying you want to be a professional chef right after you serve a meal to a group of people–if you hope everyone thinks your food is good! Well, I’m here to tell you that I have seen your work and you are SUPER talented. I know you will be successful–
–and way to slip your January resolution in right before the buzzer.
Hey Katie, from one college non-finisher turned photographer to another, you already rock at this. Seriously, I see so many female photographers under-sell themselves, don’t fall into that trap! I’m no big-shot at this photog game or anything, but I feel compelled to offer some unsolicited advice (sorry, I cant help it!) I’m personally still torn on the prints vs CDs thing. I was all for giving clients the files, until the first time I saw someone make terrible ugly prints from them. It really can hurt your reputation when they tell people who took those pics. On the other hand, I don’t want to waste my time by having clients order prints through me. My solution at this point is to include a set of professional quality 4×6 proofs with the digital files – that way they at least have a reference point for what the print should look like, and hopefully they wont accept inferior quality proofs from the drug store. And I second the earlier comments about a print release vs a copyright release- you always retain the copyright to your photos.
I’m really excited to see you tackle this resolution! Congrats!
Katie,
If it didn’t require a 3 day drive to come to you, I would already be emailing you to do pictures of my family. I love your photos and you are right that it is SO hard to find a reasonably priced photographer that will actually sell you a CD of the images for less than $1000 (at least up here in Seattle). You are awesome!
Good for you!! Congratulations on following your dream. I wish we lived closer or I would totally be calling you for some pictures of our little guy. 🙂
Yay Katie! I’m so proud of you!
I was expecting this! Hooray! Your photo website doesn’t say where you will travel to, or where you take pics? My mom lives south of Atlanta (near peachtree city), and I was trying to figure out if we could fit a photo session in during one of our visits! Let me know how far away your dream house is!
I wish you lived near us – I would totally get a photo session – or two!
If you ever come out to Socal I’d love to set up a meet 🙂
Congratulations! I think it is the scariest thing to go after a dream. It is great that you are going for it. I really like your style and would totally come to you if I lived nearby.
You ARE a photographer and your pictures ARE amazing! Best of luck!
Congrats Katie! The website looks great. I love looking at your pictures, especially the ones of Will. Too cute! 🙂 Good luck!
Katie, I feel sure that you’re going to be rewarded for this leap of faith. I just checked out your photography web site and your photos are amazing…you’re going to be getting calls left and right! Good luck on this exciting adventure!
Your pictures are beautiful and if I didn’t live in Seattle I would most certainly hire you and recommend you to all of my friends! Congratulations on taking the leap! It will pay off for sure!
Umm…first of all, you already ARE a photographer, and second of all, good for you for taking the giant leap for yourself. that IS scary. i did it last summer (I’m also a photographer) and it was a hard decision, but i am SO much happier because of it and you will be too. Be Brave. YOU CAN DO IT! 🙂 You are very talented, and i can see an improvement with each photoshoot you do, which means you are learning a lot already. Good luck! and Yippee!!!
That’s awesome! There is something so inspiring about watching someone follow their dream! You will rock at it!
Hi Katie! I just recently started looking at your blog because a friend of mine told me I should check it out. You are hilarious! I love reading the things you write and I especially love seeing those pictures of little cutie patootie Will! Your photography is absolutely AMAZING. Your scary adventure is my scary adventure too but I have a lot more practice ahead of my before I can even thinking about taking it up as a profession. I wish you all the best and I will totally be continuing to view your blog and look at your website to see all the new pictures you will be posting. Good Luck!
hi katie. i read your blog daily and really enjoy it! this is actually my first time commenting. I love your pictures and wish you lots of luck!
I’m actually a writer and can’t seem to read without catching mistakes, so i just thought i’d let you know that on your homepage, “pricetag” is actually 2 words and it should be “there are no overhead costs”
hope you don’t mind the corrections, just wanted to help you get your site all ready!
So excited for you! Your work is beautiful!!!
If anything, this is scary EXCITING!!! So proud of you to follow your dreams! And I could kind of see it coming with your photography and editing posts. Good luck and I can’t wait to follow your progress.
Yay Katie!! Super excited for you to take on this new venture! 🙂
Katie, I follow your blog and look forward to your updated posts. I checked out your photography website and I think it’s great. I wish I lived closer (I live in Delaware) because I would definitely hire you to do a photoshoot for me and my family. I’ve always admired your pics on your website so it’s no surprise to me that you want to be a photographer. To me, you already are. Good luck and keep up the good work. Oh….and GO STEELERS!
I knew this would be your ‘something scary’! Just a piece of advice (and forgive me if it was already mentioned since I don’t have time to read all the comments) but you should put where you are located somewhere on the site so people know you are in GA and I’d put your email on more pages so that people can easily contact you – especially the rates and sessions info pages. I design websites and one of the most important things is making sure people never have to hunt for contact information.
Good luck!
I agree you ARE a photographer:-) The best children’s photographer’s that I know are all mommies:-) I’ll send you some links to their sites so you can see… And I would so trek 2 and a half hours with my munchkin for a shoot with you. She usually turns her head when I try and take her picture.
I think this is awesome! I love the pictures you take and wish we lived closer! How much do you charge to come to PA? Ha, Ha! We live near Pittsburgh you could swing by a Steelers game! But really this is very exciting news and I know you will be great at it!
Mrs Katie Bower, I thought you WERE a photographer. Your photos are always beautiful and inspiring. You will do well. 🙂
Love the blog, love the photos. Good luck in all that you do.
Lindsay
Yay Katie! Whoop! Whoop! You go girl.. This is so exciting. I love your idea of how you will package your product. I would love to have a photo session & then get a CD. It’s so perfect for this digital age. You are free to do whatever you like with YOUR photos. That’s right you paid someone to take pictures of you & your loved ones & even though that person is “the professional” those pictures were done for YOU, of YOU, at YOUR request as the customer. LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT. (sorry about all the capitals, I’m really excited for you.) Feel the support coming at you girl…OH & if you’re ever in the Brisbane, Australia area – you’re hired!
Katie,
Everyone feels the need to tell when they are a first time commenter. I’ve been reading your blog for a couple of years and am a follower of most of the ones on your blog roll, but I’ve NEVER commented on any of them and have no desire to start. I’m just a silent lurker. But I wanted to tell you that you are super talented. All of your photos are gorgeous. I wish you so much success. Be confident girl!!! And believe in yourself. You do stellar work!
I love your photos! Great style. I know you are in the Atlanta area, but are you able to be more specific on location? Current and new place? I am in Woodstock…hoping you are close as I would love to schedule a session with you. I have a feeling you’ll be quite busy. God bless you.
Hey, that’s great advice from heather s. regarding adding more email addresses! Just popped over to the photography site, it looks good! Exciting for you!
Congratulations on taking the leap! I wish I lived closer to you so you could take photos [of the babies I don’t actually have yet, but yeah– that’s how much I LOVE your photos]. You have an amazing eye for moments worth capturing, and you can work your photoshop magic to make them that much more special.
Newness is sometimes scary… but you’ve got this, girl! You’re incredible. I hope you tell yourself that everyday 🙂
Best of luck with your business… the families in your town just got reeeeallly lucky!!
I like your photo website, Just one suggestion, it might help to put what area you live in.
Looked over your whole site and loved it! So nice and put together. I know you have mentioned more then a few times that you travel up to the Pittsburgh area to see family and friends. Would you be willing to do a shoot then? I’m currently in that area and would love to take advantage of your “vacation” if you would be able to squeeze in a session.
Katie ~ I’m so proud of you. Facing our fears can be the most difficult thing we ever have to do. I have some fears I’m trying to face myself. You have a God given talent, you’re already a great photographer (I truly mean that)! You have an eye and the heart for it! I pray God will bless you in this endeavor! You’ve taken the first step now go get em’!
I am in awe of your talent!
no one’s laughing 😉 well, except WITH you, cause you’re a funny gal.
but seriously, you are already a photographer. you take amazing pictures and are very talented! the biggest step is believing in yourself 🙂
I just had to comment on this post: I think you’re a great photographer and I think it’s great that you’re following your passion! I’m in school (my senior year) to become a teacher and to be honest, I’m still considering if that’s what I want to do the rest of my life. I’ve definitely considered photography as an option as well; I’m even getting a DSLR as my graduation gift! 🙂 Good luck!
Hi Katie,
I just wanted to send a word of encouragement – your photos are beautiful and NOBODY should be laughing at you! Don’t be afraid – God has given you the gift and the desire to use it and He will bless you as you step out in faith 🙂
There is no possible way for you to fail at this – you are so incredibly talented! Your portraits are absolutely beautiful!!! I have just started following your blog and I am totally addicted… not to mention GREEN with envy! 🙂 I love your style, your talent, your sense of humor, your dream house, your vision and ability to turn trash into absolutely amazing inexpensive wonderfulness!!! If you are EVER in the Washington DC area, PLEASE come take pictures of my baby boy! (He is only 2 months younger than Will.) By the way, you got me out of my “mommy slump” and back into home decoration fever! Truly an inspiration – thank you. <3
My husband is being transferred… so our famiy is moving from Nashville to Duluth, GA. I am not sure how far that is from you, but I’m excited to know that I can cross one thing off my “find in GA” list- a photographer for my kiddos pics. I love your blog and your photography is awesome! Btw, would it be totally psycho to bring bacon to our photo shoot? ;O)
Congratulations! Going for your dream is huge! I must say that I’m super bummed we’re not closer. If you ever make it out to Colorado or if I’m ever in Georgia I would LOVE to do a photo session with you!!!!
Congratulations Katie! You’ll be great at this!
This makes me so happy, your photos are always so gorgeous!! I wish I lived by you 🙁
You take gorgeous photos so I know you’ll excel at this! Can’t wait to check out your website. From the office manager of photographers, just keep in mind that the reason most charge a lot for their work (whether that be a wedding or portrait shoot) is because of the time that goes into it. Not just the few hours you spend shooting, but the days and days after editing hundreds of images, answering questions, shipping prints and products, etc. Plus the equipment… It’s an expensive business. I’m not saying charge $500 for a family shoot, but at the same time, YOUR time is worth something so make sure whatever you charge covers more than just the day of. I hope that doesn’t sound pessimistic because I truly don’t mean it that way. Just sharing what I’ve found to be true since working in the business. 🙂
I was hoping you would start a photography business! What a fun adventure 🙂 Now if only I didn’t live on the other side of the country…maybe we will have to take a trip so you can use your fantastic skills to make my family photo worthy! Best of luck to you.
I rarely comment but adore your blog and follow it regularly…you definitely already are a fabulous photographer, good for you for doing something you enjoy & are very talented at! Best of luck, there is no doubt you will be a big success!!
Sorry about that Kristen, I thought that was added on there…wooops!
xo – kb
way to go following your dream! I know first hand how hard it is to put yourself out there.
P.S. I went to college for fine art and photography….and you take way better photos then most of my classmates (after 4 years).
Way to go Katie!! It must feel good, if a little scary, to say it out loud. I think you already ARE a photographer. Your pictures are amazing and I love your processing of them. I would have you photograph our family in a heartbeat…if only we didn’t live on the other side of the world…darn it! I can’t wait to see more of your wonderful photos in the future!
Way to decide to take a risk, and move towards your goals, KB! You’re going to be uber successful!
And since I love to share ideas, my friend Courtney is also a natural light photographer. We’re all the way over here in Portland, OR, so you two aren’t competing. She became a photog a couple of years ago after teaching herself. Thought maybe you could look at her site for ideas, or even like her on FB. She’s always posting ideas, and other rescources. Her company is Courtney Jade Photography, http://www.courtneyjade.com.
Either way, I’m inspired by your drive. When you set your mind to something, the only option is success:)
You may be scared but I think I can speak for tons of people who read your blog that this is absolutely perfect for you. I think it’s your professional calling! If I didn’t live in Texas I would be all over it!
Congratulations Katie! I was hoping this would be your “scary” thing! Your photos always blow me away- I have no doubts that your business will grow quickly and you’ll be overbooked very soon! Please keep sharing your photography tips though- we just got a Nikon d90 and i love reading your advice!
Katie Bower, failure is NOT an option! Keep telling yourself that and you will do amazing things! Website looks great!
Good luck! I agree- take the leap. I started my own business this year. At first, I pushed hard, and was growing but at a big personal cost. Now, I’ve started to sit back a bit, and make sure I keep it on my terms (not over doing it, not sacrificing what I think is important) and it’s that much more rewarding. Good luck and enjoy!
I’ll definitely let you know. Baby boys are so near and dear to me…obviously 🙂
xo – kb
Duluth is right around the corner! I’d love to shoot your little ones 🙂 Let me know about scheduling – I am booking pretty fast 🙂
xo – kb
We’ve always wanted to go snowboarding out there so I will definitely let ya’ll know if I am in the area 🙂
xo – kb
You are soo right Meghan. I talked to so many other photographers and they all said that same thing. Obviously I took that into account as well as many other things. Right now I am attempting to build my portfolio…it’s not as diverse as I would like so that is why my rates are low. And since I would rather add new material to my website (vs. all the shoots I have done over the past years), I decided that the rates could be lowered in order to add new photos quickly. Plus, we are probably gonna move, so I need to establish a name in the new area…so the fastest way to do that is to make the price right!
xo – kb
Absolutely Corley! I’ll definitely post when I am doing any travel so shooting in other cities will be possible!
xo – kb
I know like DUH KATIE! I had it on there, deleted it to put it somewhere else, and totally forgot. DOH!
xo – kb
you are so funny erin.
xo – kb
I think you are an amazing photographer! I have the same dream as you, I just wish I could be half as good as you are and have a little confidence! If I didn’t live in another state I would love to have photos taken by you!
Hi Lisa,
I am shooting in Gwinnett. I’d be willing to travel but I’d have to charge a little extra for distance 🙂
xo – kb
Thanks Chrissy. And hey – if you want to be a silent lurker, just know that I appreciate you all the same. Of course, the comments make me laugh, cry and generally wet myself…but that might not be your thing. Most people would not say that’s a life goal for them 🙂
xo – kb
I will definitely have to post any travel plans – especially when I go to PA! Maybe we can hook up for a shoot in Steeler Nation 🙂
xo – kb
Katie, I haven’t read any of the comments yet. Went straight to the bottom to post my own comment. But I can guess that none of the people above me are laughing. And I’m not either. It takes HUGE guts to face your fears, step out into the unknown, create a business of sorts from scratch, and chase your dreams. And I for one admit that I’m too chicken to do it myself. I’ve never met you, but I’m so proud of you. You are an inspiration. Go get ’em, girl!
Seriously that was a I-eat-paint-chips moment…it’s on there now…but I am really that dumb sometimes 🙂
xo – kb
GO STEELERS!
xo – kb
Do you know me at all RM? Because you know I am a horribel speler 🙂
seriously – why does it feel like a job to hit spell check?!
xo – kb
p.s. thanks and fixed.
Hi Erin,
We are in Gwinnett County – so we could definitely meet to do a photo shoot if you are ever in the metro Atlanta area!
xo – kb
Delurking to say yay for you! If you ever happen to be in Vancouver, Canada, I’d love to have a photo shoot with my little man. Too bad it’s a bit of a commute…. Keep up the bravery!
Hi Lauren!
Thanks and my copyright release actually includes the language that it is a shared copyright…that both parties have the rights to use the images for personal and professional use but not for inappropriate usage. I know that isn’t typical but I figured that it was the only way that people could use the photo as a profile picture or on their own blog or whatever. Is there another way that you have found that they can do that? I’d love to learn more about the process.
xo – kb
Gretchen that is what you call a brain fart. Excuse me 🙂
xo – kb
Can’t wait Kellie!
xo – kb
It’s a deal…and I just know that you’ll enjoy that hotlanta summer 🙂
xo – kb
Hi Katie – Love your blog! So excited about your photography too – I am in Gwinnett as well and am thrilled to know you’re close by. I would love to have you shoot our family sometime soon. Our son just lost his two front teeth and would love to capture that cute smile before it goes away. Congratulations!
Congrats! It takes a lot of courage to take a chance and go for your dreams! I’m constantly trying to work up the courage to go for my own dreams. I guessed that this was going to be your scary thing. You’re obviously a great photographer and I’m sure you’ll be wonderfully successful. My parents live in the Atlanta area so I will definitely contact you once my husband and I get pregnant! I LOVE your maternity shots. They always look like so much fun! Good luck!!
I definitely agree! I suppose my real point is I never understood photographer’s that charged thousands for their services until I started working for one, and now I don’t think they charge enough for all the work they do! For what it’s worth, as a blog reader, I think you’re photos are AMAZING and I’m sure it’ll take off quick for you. Can’t wait to read more about your new adventure! PS: the house is truly a dream! I drool over your fireplace every time you post a picture! 🙂
Congrats Katie! It’s really brave to go after your dream! You’re a great photographer and I’m sure you’ll be very successful. And the new site looks awesome!
You go girl!
Many of us allow fear to hold us back, so it is great that you are going ahead with your dream.
Your photos are fantastic and hope your passion grows along with your business.
Trust me, if you were living in Australia, I would be calling you for our wedding photos in a heartbeat.
Kelly
You will do great! I have always loved your photography and I love, love, love the way you want to run your business! I would love to find someone like you in our area that did the CD thing so I could send pictures of my adorable kids to everyone I know! 🙂 Best of luck in this new venture! 🙂
Katie,
I have been following Bowerpower for a few months now but I’ve never commented. I always thought your photos were amazing and it is fantastic news that you are going to do this professionally! I just wished I lived on the other side of the pond to book a family session with you for my husband and two little boys.
Best of luck!!
Marion
London, UK
Is that Gwinnett County before or after you move to your Dream House?
About bloody time, I reckon! I’ve been wondering when you’d get on with it. Good for you. Or as they say here Down Under – “On ya”! (short for “good on you”)
Envious of the people that can purchase your services. Love your photos.
All the best.
You shouldn’t be scared to tell us! Good luck and you can be sure all your readers are behind you 100%! If I lived anywhere near you I’d be one of your first customers!
I live in Alpharetta/Johns Creek and would love for you to do a shoot of my 2 teenage sons when the weather breaks! I will be in touch.
I’m confused…aren’t you already a photographer? YES! If you are ever in Boston, please plan on taking photos of my family of three, soon to be 4!!
Like others have said, I DEFINITELY saw this coming! 🙂 Congrats, Katie. You’re about to start a really exciting, sometimes difficult, but ver rewarding adventure. I just started my photography business in 2010, and I’ve been there – the facing the fears, the convincing yourself you can do it, and the nerves over what-if-I-can’t? But you totally can! It’s obvious you love photography, and I think that will make it worth it.
As one photographer to another, I can say that the pricing and business side of things is one aspect that takes up a lot more time and energy than you first will think. It’s worth it to learn from others and also to ask questions (please don’t be afraid to ask me!). I’ll also recommend yet again that you check out http://www.pinkletoes.com/pt4p – this is an AMAZING resource that has helped me so much as I have started my business. It’s the best investment I’ve made in the last year 🙂
One last thing – I’m sure you know this, but perhaps others don’t. There are basically two main reasons photographers charge a good deal for prints and/or a CD – and that’s because a print is worth more than just the paper it’s on. It’s your time, energy, and artistic vision – and that’s worth more than just $.44. But also, it’s because the majority of clients don’t have a reputable print lab, a calibrated computer, and the know-how to make quality prints. I highly recommend Mpix to clients, but I also highly recommend that anything larger than an 8×10 that they print through me just to make sure it looks awesome! There are tons of different business models out there photography, and no one way is the right way. Do what works best for you! But also make sure that you’re compensated for your hard work 🙂 Last thing (I know, this is ridiculously long!) – yes, there is a difference between a print and copyright release – as the creator of an image, you always retain the copyright. Selling a copyright is expensive and complicated legally, and if that’s something you truly want to do, then you should make sure you talk with a lawyer who understands artistic copyright law 🙂
Whew – that’s more than you probably bargained for! I think you’re going to do great, Katie! And if you want any help or just another photographer to talk to, let me know 🙂
So excited for you! You are already a photographer in our (your blog stalkers) minds.
Sure wish we were in your area…I have a 4.5 month old and we can’t afford anything in this area:) (NYC!!)
Best of luck! Meg and her girl Finnegan Marie
Congratulations Katie! I agree with what others have said, that you are already a photographer – this just makes it more “official.” I have a question – are you interested in doing weddings as well? I know you mentioned in a previous blog that they kinda stress you out, but I thought I’d ask, because I am an event planner/designer in the Atlanta area, and I am always looking for great new photogs!
My dad (and his side of the family) live in Roswell. Not sure how far that is from you. If I go down for a visit, it would be great to get some family photos. Who cares if you didnt finish college! I graduated college, worked for 4 1/2 years at a job I hated and now am a stay at home mom who has new interests. You obviously have many talents and didnt get them from going to college!
I don’t know if anyone has said this but I’m running late for work so I couldn’t double check (yes, your blog posts are that important to me!):
Katie Bower you ARE a photographer. Don’t let anyone tell you different. Follow your dreams and they will come true. I used to say I want to be a producer and took a job as a scriptwriter for a company I thought I could move up in. Only 6 months later, I got a promotion and now I AM a producer for a large communications firm and am in charge of thousands of online video commercials every day I go to work.
Speaking of which, I should go. 🙂
Much love,
Emily McB
You’re getting so many comments on this and I have to add one as well. Congratulations on being so brave! I have no doubt that this is going to be a huge success for you…and a wild ride too! Can’t wait to see where it takes you!
Yay! You are a fabulous photographer! I’m so glad you decided to take the leap (even though it’s scary!).
I’m rooting for you 🙂
Congratulations Katie! I’m so excited for you. What a blessing to know what you want to do and have the support to go for it. I know you will be wildly successful at it. 🙂
No laughter here. I am in the same boat as you. I want to be a photographer, but I just don’t feel “qualified” yet. So I call myself a “serious hobbyist” and plug along until I feel like I have a respectable portfolio and regular amount of clients. Then I’ll take the leap into Pro status. Anywho – just wanted to share that there is someone else experiencing similar fears/anxieties/aspirations!
Katie this is going to seem pretty silly, but I did only just discover the awesomeness of Bower Power 3 lil months ago….But I already thought you WERE a photographer! Your pictures of your home look like fancy pictures of fancy people’s homes. Will’s portraits/candids/TP eating sessions look like you have a pro following you around. AND you use all kinds of words I don’t understand when you talk about photography (F-Stop has become a favorite curse word of mine).
You are so immensely talented and you will absolutely succeed with this dream. No joke I have said to Scott “You know, when my blog gets bigger I’ll probably get a nice camera so I can take great pics.” And then I showed him pics from BP so he’d know what I was talking about. And if I get married in Atlanta then you will be my first choice. And if not, maybe you’d like to take a little working vacation down to Palm Beach 🙂
This is awesome, Katie! My brother-in-law is a professional photographer and I can say that I really see the qualities in your photos that I see in his. I believe you have the gift to definitely make it as a photographer. I’ll tell you, he said the best thing he ever did (and the best way to learn) was join a photography club. That way you kind of get mentored by people who are already established and have a lot of experience taking photos. You’ll learn more skills and in a faster/better way. I wish you all the luck and if I ever move down to that area, I’ll call you up for some photos!
This is such great news! I’m so excited for you and know you will do GREAT! Since I love your work, and am really inspired by your photos, I have 2 quick questions:
What type of camera would you recommend for a beginner who wants to get into photography, but doesn’t necessarily want to spend too much on a camera?
Also, what type of photos do you like to take in the winter? I just can’t get motivated when it’s so dreary out?? HA!
I have been reading your blog for a while now and have always loved your photos. Is it odd for me to say that it’s no surprise that you want to be a photographer? You have incredible talent! Much more than I could ever hope for!
If I were in your area, I would definitely hire you to do a family shoot! Well, it’s just me and the hubs right now, but anyway…
And good for you for putting yourself out there! It may be scary, but it’s definitely better than living with a big, fat ‘What if?’ for the rest of your life!
Look at all these comments! It is obvious that you will have NO problemo getting all the clients you need/want! So happy for you that you are going for your dream!
I’m in Birmingham, but if I was in Atlanta I would totally email you right now to set up a session for my little nugget. I think you have a brother in Alabama?? If you’re ever in this area I would love to set something up!
The website looks great and your photos are beautiful! I’m glad we will get to travel with you on this journey and watch your new business grow! 🙂
Congratulations!! Your photography website looks great! I love reading your tutorials since I just purchased a rebel! Hope you keep posting so I can keep learning! 🙂
(de-lurking!) Soooo, I haven’t posted a comment here before, I think, but I just wanted to tell you that I think you’re a fantastic photographer and if you were even relatively close to my area (Milwaukee, WI) I would book you you shoot me and my husband and our pups for an anniversary shoot in a heartbeat.
Your photos are beautiful (the one you posted yesterday with Will on the piano bench with his little feet dangling above the pedals made me tear up) — and I know that you’re going to do great! I know what you mean about being afraid to “put things out there” because you’re afraid of failing. But, like the coffee cup on my desk says, “What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?” 🙂
I’m SO glad you are doing this! I have been with my boyfriend (not married) for almost 7 years! So when we get engaged I will definitely be intouch with you. We live in Hall County, so right down the road from yall.
Katie, I have to tell you that I LOOVE your photos! And if I lived anywhere near you I’d want sessions with you for so many occasions! I wish you all the best of luck on your very scary but even more exciting adventure!
I don’t even “know” you, but I’m so proud of you. Congratulations on the first step, Katie.
I DEFINITELY agree with not giving away copyright. If you do, you do not have the rights to submit the photos for competitions, for advertisement, etc. Photography is so expensive because it takes a TON of time. The cost of business is pretty shocking when you piece it out. For every 1 photoshoot you are looking at MANY hours of work from the actual photography time, editing, posting, communication with your clients, just to name a few. Also, make sure you check into business insurance to protect yourself. It is actually pretty cheap and well worth it should something ever happen to your clients, their property, or even you. Check with your state regarding getting your business license and make sure you find out about state sales and use taxes. Those are the most important things a professional needs to do besides taking awesome photos which you already do. I applaud you for following your dream. I never finished college either, but I wouldn’t trade what I do for anything.
Congrats Katie! So excited for you!
My best friend was just commenting that she wanted more pictures of her son and it would make the perfect birthday present (her birthday is today, actually), but we are in the North Florida area. Life is sad. 🙁 If you are ever in the area again (we are close to where you went for your beach vacation last year) I’d LOVE to set something up!
Katie, if people don’t understand why that is scary… I don’t know what kind of life they’ve lead. To state what you want, your goals, knowing full well that it might not happen, is scary. Especially when it comes to an artistic career.
Looks like you’ve found your calling. I’ve always enjoyed your photography posts and I can’t wait to see how your portfolio grows online.
I had no idea you didn’t finish college. That was a shocker for me this morning. The good thing is, I think you found your niche. Your talents seem to really be in design and photography.
P.S.
If you ever decided to, there are plenty of universities that offer degree completion programs. That is, if you even wanted to go that route.
Congratulations on taking the leap! I am an entreprenuer by heart and know that saying it out loud can be the hardest step of the process. You are going to be amazing! Keep us posted!
Congrats!! The site looks great!! I’m in the sales profession and get daily emailed quotes, sort of like a little pep talk first thing in the morning. I came across one that I thought you might like, ” One benefit of risking failure is risking success.” You work hard you have a great eye and are super creative, you WILL be successful!!!
Katie, that’s awesome. You’ve inspired me pretty much to start doing photos for family so many one day I’ll have a little side business. Do you ever come to Maryland? If so, we could have some jobs for you! I see engagement photos in the future…
Really great, Katie. As a person who started her own business, I can relate to the fear. I used to stay awake all night, afraid of the failure. Until one day I thought “What’s the worst thing that can happen if I fail?” Guess what? Nothing. So you might as well go BALLS OUT and conquer the world. Everyone buys in to confidence. And so does your camera shutter. Trick them all into thinking you know what you’re doing…
…and soon enough you’ll realize that you knew all along.
No laughing here, just applauding! As someone who would love to make a career change, but lack the confidence, I commend you for making the brave steps towards your dreams!
Go Katie!
You go girl, I’ve always thought you take great photos! Good luck! Thanks for all the tips and tricks about photography as well. I know I”ll never be a photographer but I’m striving to take better pictures.
Congratulations! It is great that you are sharing your talents for others to enjoy. I am in Missouri, but gosh I wish I could find someone like you around here. I’ve literally been looking for your exact type of package, but it is hard to find. All the best of luck to you!!!
Can I add to this? I’m going to be perfectly blunt – but think of it as tough love!
I think you’re talented and you can go far with this for sure. I also love your entrepreneurial spirit!…but it’s considered a HUGE faux pas in the photography business to sell a CD of your images. It not only undervalues your own work, it does so for the entire industry. You should consider your photographs- printed from a professional lab on professional grade paper- your artwork. You provide a timeless piece of art that someone will display in their home for a long time. If you give them a CD, they can go to Walmart and print your art on crappy photo paper. My unsolicited advice is that you should attend some pro-photography workshops, read tons of books, see about signing up for the PPA and get a business license if you haven’t already done so. You want to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of photography- not one of the people they talk about here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oqHrPQ9ULM&feature=related.
And here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhalmKt1IXU&feature=related
Just wanted to say that I love your photos. I especially LOVE LOVE your maternity photos – they have this beautiful serene quality to them. I not even a huge fan of maternity photos in general because I’ve seen a lot that are just…weird…but yours are AMAZING. Good luck!!
I am so happy that you are following your dream. You are already so amazing at what you do. If I lived in the area I would hire you to shoot all of my life’s important events!!
YAY for you!! The site is gorgeous and I love the idea of just selling the CD. That’s all I ever want as well. Perfect! And if you’re ever draggin the crew through Dallas, TX, well, I’ll be stalking you and your camera. 🙂
Katie,
Congratulations on this new adventure! Your site looks incredible: clean, simple, professional. I have no doubt of your continued success- you have quite a gift.
I want to encourage you to look into “Shared Rights Certificates”: at least that is what I call them. When I sell CDs of high resolution, digital images, I accompnay the CD with the certificate. It not only allows clients to print and post their images on the web, it also allows us to use the images for marketing purposes. Hence, we “share” the rights to the images. Just wanted to mention, though I’m sure you’ve already looked into it.
Congratulations again!
This is awesome Katie! I’m so excited for you. I hope one day I have the guts to do something similarly scary!
Katie,
As a lover of your blog and a professional career counselor, I offer you congratulations and a big WAHOO!!! I’ve worked with so many people (with and without degrees) that have not had the courage to do what you’re doing. Doing what you truly love is the surest way to your personal version of success. Blessings to you on this new path of your journey.
J.
you weren’t a photographer already?? your photos are wonderful =)
First, congrats to you for officially starting your photography business!!
I have family that live in Suwannee, GA. I’m 7.5 months pregnant and trying to figure out a way to make it up there in 2 months for some newborn pics… I’ll let you know if I can work anything out! 🙂
I live in South Florida, and it’s pretty expensive to get good photography skills like yours down here!!!
Congratulations, Katie!! That is amazing. I think its a great idea. You definitely have the talent and drive to do this, so I think it will work out great! Your website looks really nice too. Good luck with everything!!
Congrats!! That is SO exciting!! I give you SO much credit because your something scary is also my someting scary. I have loved photography for a very long time and have wanted to start my own business for years. I’ve done shoots but always for free because I don’t feel right charging, crazy huh?! I’m afriad of failing at something I love so much and I know it’s holding me back. So I give you props for taking that leap and doing what you love. I hope that I can follow in those same steps one day and live my dream! 🙂
I don’t know how you can think that anyone would laugh at you for wanting to follow your dreams!! You are SUCH an amazing photographer that I’m frankly surprised you don’t do it full time already. I very much wish that I was in the ATL because I love your pictures. You’re truly a gifted photographer, and the fact that you want to do it affordibly is a wonderful thing. I completely agree with you about wedding photogs – we refused to fork over the kind of coin for the photographers that we WANTED, and instead went with a local photographer who was just trying to start out her business. We may not have gotten the world’s most perfect shots, but I see her every year at a wedding fair my mom’s business is in, and I get to see how she’s grown as an artists. That alone is something wonderful. She still puts up a GIANT picture of my wedding party there. 🙂
Hey Katie,
Just want to let you know that I did finish college, and I hate the field I went into. Yeah, I’m “that girl”. I admire that you had the courage to realize it wasn’t for you and carve your own path. I too have always dreamed of being a photographer but chose the “safe” path and got a degree in accounting. ACCOUNTING! Blah! There was a time between my second and third in college where I almost dropped out to go to a photography school but couldn’t muster up the strength. I regret it everyday. Now I’m slowly trying to learn photography on my own while providing for two little girls and working a full time job in an occupation I hate. Should have listen to my heart. Listen to your heart. You won’t regret it. Oh, and congratulations!
So exciting and wish I lived in Georgia, I’m pregnant right now! If you ever head to the Tampa/Orlando area seriously let me know (email and blog are on the reply thing above). Definitly post your travel plans because with your blog I bet you have readers everywhere!
GOOD LUCK!
I just want to say that I love looking at all your pictures…not because Will is close in age to my little Olivia (April 6th baby!!) or because he’s absolutely adorable…but because I love how you capture everything about him. I think you will make a great photographer. If I lived near you, I would totally hire you! Stay optimistic and jump in head first…you got this! Best of luck and keep up the good work 🙂
-Robyn
Hi Kassie! OKAY – finally someone who knows what I am talking about when it comes to shared rights! Thanks so much for letting me know the terminology….and love your site…everytime I see one of your photos I get wisked off to dreamland 🙂
xo – kb
From what I’ve seen on your blog, you’ll do awesome!! Wish I lived closer so you could take some pictures of my little family! Good luck–I’ll be praying for you!
Good Luck, Katie!! Your pictures are fabulously beautiful!! Photography has become a passion for me over the past year and I’m trying to learn as much as I can…would love if you would share some good learning sources!
I know you posted before that you would never do another wedding. Are you opening that door again, and giving it another shot?
PS. Love the blog, Love your house, (old and new) and Love your photographs! Your going to do great!!
Hey you… I would totally hire you to take photos. You do amazing work. It’s so natural, relaxed, and beautiful how you capture moments. So someday if we’re in your area & in need of pictures (I hope we’ll be in need of maternity photos soon!) then consider yourself our #1 choice.
I know it’s hard to just tell yourself something that isn’t natural, but don’t be so scared! You are a fantastic photographer. Your momma should be so proud.
way to go!
Hooray! We haven’t booked our spring trip down to ATL yet, so when we do, I’ll see if we can book a photo shoot with you. Thanks! (And good luck again – not that you need it!)
Congratulations on doing something that you’ve always wanted! I think its exciting and wonderful and hope I can follow in your footsteps someday!
Hi Katie!
Congrats on the big project! I’m a long-time reader/lurker (I remember when your blog was green!) but I’ve never commented. I just wanted to say that my dad is a professional photographer–he photographs art for museums, catalogs, artists, etc. He is a self-taught photographer; he learned while working at a museum but never went to school for it. When I was born, he decided to start his own business. Well, 30 years later and three kids through college, I think he couldn’t be happier with his decision. I’ve never once heard him complain about his job. And if he doesn’t like a client, he just doesn’t have to work with them again … can’t do that when you have a boss!
I’m sure that this is a great decision for you. Best of luck! Can’t wait to read about your adventures!
Alix
Your photos are beautiful. I think my fave is the baby in a basket, so sweet. No need to fear! Just please don’t forget us over here hanging on every word/project, ok? 🙂
I can completely understand your point of view Lexie…but at the same time, I have to stick to my guns about the CD. It’s not that I want to be a rebel or anything like that or undermine the amount of work/time/education/abilities of other photographers…I have read tons of articles and books on the subject and as much as I want to agree with them – I just see it differently. I know that I am with many others who think of their client as their number one priority…and if they want to print their photo on crappy photo paper – that’s their perogative in my mind. Of course, I would rather give them some other options so that they know better results are possible.
Thanks though – I will definitely be looking into PPA!
xo – kb
Wow – it helps to hear that from someone who probably deals with this kinda fear all the time!
Thank you so much!
xo – kb
I guess maybe I should rewrite the “copyrights” to make it “shared copyrights”…I can see how this is confusing.
xo – kb
Katie,
I am another silent reader – never commented before, but I didn’t want to pass on the chance to wish you all the best with your new endeavor. I am sincerely excited for you and I think your work is fabulous – you can really tell through your photos and your words how much you love photography and sharing your gifts with others. All the best!
I don’t live in the Atlanta Area but my cousin does and she is pregnant with her second girl… so I forwarded your website to her, hopefully sparking her interest is having maternity/baby/sister/family photos at some point in the near future. Good luck with your endeavors!! 🙂
so, um, not trying to downplay your scary thing- but……
aren’t you already a photographer?
seriously. I totally consider you pro.
Katie,
You have that “it” thing you have to have to be a good photographer. All of us blog lurkers know it, now it’s time for you to embrace it. You have great instincts, great ideas, great editing,and you could make a kid in the worst mood ever, smile, and that’s very important! Anyway, I have a 16 year old, maybe you could do her senior pics in a few years! You are a natural, now go out there and conquer the world once session at a time!
Long time lurker,
Amy (Alabama)
You’re totally a photographer! Most “professionals” are self-taught, so fake that confidence until you make it. Your friends and family are so lucky to have you to capture all of those special moments so beautifully.
On another note, what could you possibly have left to do to finish your college degree? Maybe this is just me, but don’t you owe it to yourself to finish? You just never know about the future, and often having the degree matters more than what it’s in. Two scary things for January?
Katie — good for you for being so BRAVE! I’m so proud of you!! Is that weird to say to someone you don’t even really know? I don’t care — I’m saying it anyway. If you ever vacation in Maine — it IS Vacationland, after all 😉 — I would love to book you for a family shoot!
Katie – Are you kidding me?! YOU ARE AMAZING! I send your photography links all the time to friends that need help taking their own photos, and I have you under my favorites, for my own personal photo help! Jump in with both feet and don’t look back! You will succeed!
BTW, I am in Chicago, let me know when you travel to the Midwest.
Way to go, Katie! You take gorgeous pictures and I admire you for your strength and honesty to do what you love. Congrats and good luck in your ventures!!
Yay Katie! I wish I lived near you so you could take family pictures for us. You are amazing! All those lucky people who will get to have your photos in their homes…I’m jealous!
I’m not laughing. I totally hear you. That’s something I want to do too but feel so silly even mentioning it. Why? Because I’m a lawyer. I did the opposite of you. I graduated from college and went on to spend a TON of money getting my law degree. I’m glad that I did. I wouldn’t trade the education I got for the world…but something inside of me is restless. My creative nature is aching to be used again. I have always loved writing and photography and ultimately, I’d love to use both of those talents to DO something with my life. I don’t know what…but something.
Good for you for jumping in with both feet! It’s a leap of faith, but I believe God blesses those who take the leap!
Okay…this will be weird…I know it…but Katie Bower I ***heart*** you for taking the leap of faith! I think deep down inside I think we all wish we were so brave.
On your next roadtrip to see Sherry and John I will definitely book your services (if you can squeeze me in!)!
Best wishes.
Congratulations, Katie! I’m new-ish to your blog, but I love it, and the photography you show here is really great. I totally agree that the saying out loud (or typing it, as the case may be) is the first step. I’m trying to get an Etsy shop going with personalized invitations, etc., and I keep dragging my feet. Dang fear of failure!
You’ve taken a huge step setting up your website and putting yourself out there. One thing at a time, right?
Now I’m off to go stand in front of the mirror and give myself the same advice…
Um… from what I have seen you already ARE a photographer! And a darn good one too. Claim the title.
Katie-
Congratulations!!
I am super proud of you for doing something scary and going for your dream! I understand why it feels scary- cause if you fail, you fail at your *dream*…. but guess what? You won’t- you’ve got **IT** and you’ve got the Good Lord on your side; He’ll lead you down the right path while holding your hand if you’re scared 🙂
Way to go, Katie! Your pictures are always so good, so I know you will do fabulous!
I am currently looking for a wedding photographer, and would love to find someone starting out who has the style I want, but doesn’t cost an arm and a leg! I just don’t want to spend half of my wedding budget on the photographer.
I think this is awesome! You take beautiful pics, and I think you’ll be surprised at the response you receive. If I didn’t live 2000 miles away, I’d give you a call! Who knows, maybe you’ll end up travelling. Also, whenever I get scared, I turn to my favorite verse, II Timothy 2:7. Check it out 😉
You sound like my mom Erin 🙂 And for me to graduate would be a HASSLE. I think I would probably need one more semester and then application. But I don’t want to get a teaching license…and I already have about four years experience working in a very specific type of insurance related field…so I believe that if I ever needed a job, the experience would help me more than a degree would. I do want to go back to school one day but probably for something completely different.
xo – kb
So proud of you Katie! Pursuing your dreams can sometimes be hard to do, but you’re never a failure, when you’ve got faith! and I’m so glad you are stepping out on faith and starting an official photography business! Way to go!!
Pics look great! good for you!
I have never wished I lived in the south, as much as I do now 🙁
Best of luck Katie! I have NO DOUBT appointments will come pouring in!
Katie, you’re crazy! You already ARE a photographer! And you are inspiring to those of us who have always wanted to do things to fulfill us as people and didn’t have the guts. Heck you’re one of the reasons I finally bought a DSLR in the first place. I live in Atlanta but am about to move to Charleston and I would come back to get pictures taken by you! You are going to do great and I can’t wait to watch your success! Congratulations on taking that jump!
Do what you love, do what makes you happy. never apologize for being who you are or following your path. You will do great!
Congrats and good luck!! I live in CA so I won’t be able to get a shoot done by you, but would in a heartbeat if I lived close. Can’t wait to follow this adventure with you!!!!
Hi Katie! One of my very dear friends from college got bit by the photography bug, too. She had taken a couple of classes in college, and it was a little voice that kept whispering to her – getting louder and louder, especially after having children. She’s now getting paid to do what she loves. Awesome!
You should check out her blog : http://danapetersonphotography.blogspot.com – if anything, to add her to your growing network of cute mamas pursuing their dreams. Both of you shoot exquisite photos, and I’m so glad you’re following your dreams!
I understand. Here are some other resources for you to research besides the PPA: Imaging USA 2012 New Orleans, Joy of Marketing/Sarah Petty, Alien Bees, DropitModern, Design Aglow. That should get you started. I agree with what someone posted below about getting a laywer to look over all contracts to make them iron-clad. You don’t want to mess around with that stuff.
Congrats, hun. 🙂 Welcome to the roller-coaster.
Best wishes – PB
I wish you lived closer to me. 🙁
You are SERIOUSLY talented and you should NEVER be afraid to live your dream. I just started my own website based on this exact belief.
I want secretly want to be a photographer too. 🙂 Good luck! You’ll be great.
Thanks for posting your scary thing! Not what I expected but reading your post I realize that one reason I’ve been working this same (good paying) job is because I’m scared to attempt something else. If I fail at my dream then what I am left with? But admitting that makes me realize how silly I sound and how ridiculous it would be to live life that way. Congrats and Best of Luck!
CONGRATS! and AGREED! to everything you posted. I am in the same.exact.boat. So scared, but I guess chasing dreams is supposed to feel like this? I’ve added your photog page to the blogroll, can’t wait to see what else you’ve got in store.
Cheers to a fellow just starting out PHOTOGRAPHER. because you are.
Kristin
Woo hoo! GO FOR IT!!! And nobody is laughing. And if one person laughs, you can photograph it, and then you will have a fabulous happy picture of them laughing (doesn’t everyone want a fabulous happy picture of themself laughing?!). Then you can SELL them that laughy picture and they will hang it on the mantle and weep because they feel horrible for laughing about your dream when IN FACT, you are actually VERY GOOD AT WHAT YOU DO!
My friend took ONE college class – a photography class – and then she started her own business. Now she’s one of the very best in my area! You obivously have the natural talent, so, GO GET EM TIGER!
Oh, and that’s a great resolution list. I want one. My official resolution for January is to make a resolution list for the rest of the year.
I am so proud of you! You’ll be great! I just hope that by the time we need maternity and baby photos I can still afford you. Hubby and I are currently ‘trying’.
I think this is wonderful! I’ve admired your photography skills since I’ve started reading your blog a few months ago. If you are ever passing through the Raleigh NC area, let me know! Best of luck to you Katie.
This is awesome! I knew it would only be a matter of time with you. You have always had a nack for photography and have been a huge inspiration of mine thus far, and I am SO excited to stalk your new site for additional eye candy.
Great job putting it all out there and pursuing your dreams. Not only do I believe you would have regretted it at some point had you never taken the plunge and followed your heart, but just as importantly, think of all of us other stay at home moms with giant dreams and passions, that you are motivating as well. I have been spending the last two years wondering how I can push myself to the point of Professional Organizer and Photographer and some days I feel like I am moving too slow, scared to keep going at all, feeling like no one understands or “gets it”… so an endless thank you for being brave and sharing your drive and story with all of us. It’s such a great gift you have given me and everyone you will shoot for in your photography business. Which will be a GIANT success. No doubt about that!
Congratulations Katie! I am SO excited for you!
xoxo,
Jen
You go girl!
You will make a great photographer!
You never finished college because it wasn’t for you!
Many creative, high energy people are meant for other things 🙂
Katie, This is AWESOME!! Your site looks great! Good Luck!!
So excited for you! The website looks great! Also, I read a comment or two from people saying it’s considered a faux pas to sell CD’s in the photography business. I don’t know where that comes from. Our wedding photographer in Napa Valley CA is VERY successful, (and has a price tag to match) and only sells CD’s of her photos. There are more and more photographers that are doing that, because that’s what people want.
You’re going to be super successful!
I’ve been reading the blog for awhile but haven’t ever commented – thought a post on starting a photography business might be the appropriate place to start! 🙂 I started doing photography in the season between finishing my master’s degree and finding a job (’08) – continued taking photos for people (shooting, editing, and offering discs for a low fee altogether like you are starting out) while working full-time – and then last March started full-time at home… foregoing the salary, the formal education, and the 9-5 to be a small business owner – being creative – and preparing my schedule for the prospect of starting a family (which we hope to do this year.)
I wanted to give you a big virtual hug for following your creative heart! It takes faith for sure.
I also wanted to lend some advice, maybe? I think as you are building your portfolio, it’s great to start like you’re starting… but from my experience (which could count for nothing for you, so take it or leave it :)) you’ll run yourself ragged at this price point IF income and time with the boyfriend and Will are important (which I know they are). Higher quantity (good quality) at a lower price does equal the same as lower quantity (good quality) at a higher price… and as much as 18cent photos are great for the time-being (they do fade with time) and people should have the rights to do as they want with the photos… your ART is of value – not just your time 🙂
You go, girl!
Sorry to sound like your mom! Maybe just one scary thing for January then 🙂
Thta is so awesome Katie! You take beautiful pictures and I would call you if I lived closer to you!! Best of luck on your new adventure!
xo,
Kelly
Hi Katie!! I started following your blog oddly enough because we have the same last name (my maiden name)… but I love it!
I was wondering if you’d be in Charleston, SC anytime in the future? I have a 3 1/2 month old I’d love to get some great professional photos (see you’re already a professional!) of and would love for you to take them.
Keep me in mind, I know we’re close in location so maybe we’ll be down your way some time as well.
Thanks!
JoAnn Bower Scott
Hey Katie!
Congrats! It takes a lot of courage to share your goals and dreams with so many strangers. I love love love your photography, and would feel so honoured to have you take pictures of our family … if we lived anywhere near you 😉
God bless you in this new endeavour!
I understand the fear of trying something new and I too have dreamt of being a photographer but don’t have the guts like you do. Partially b/c I see the work of others (like you) and think I am not good enough. Your skills are great you are going to do fine.
Good for you for going after what you want. My sister is a successful & sought after child photographer. I can tell from your pictures you know what you are doing and have a great eye. Do not be afraid to charge what you are worth. When you set your pricing, make sure you will be well compensated for your time and effort. I am telling you from watching my sisters business grow, people will take advantage of you, and by setting your prices too low, b/c you think you are not worth it yet, you are going to be dissapointed. Do not give your talent away. There is a reason those wedding photographers were so expensive. You don’t want to be the discount photographer. Those people can go to Sears if they want a deal. Your talent is worth paying for.
oooh travel plans? Any plans to make it to CT, MA or RI?
Katie,
I’ve been stalking (scratch that) following you for a super-duper long time (not going to mention that, it may scare you a little more), but I hardly ever leave comments (not suppose to do that from work!), but I HAD to leave one this time and let you know that you are amazingly gifted and you should definitely pursue your dream!!!! Good luck!!!
PS my cousin lives in Suwanee. Is that near you?
God bless you, Katie. Thank you for saying (typing?) the things I’m thinking every day.
I want to be a photographer – and it scares the shiz out of me! I hate my day job but I love capturing moments. Why can’t my job be to capture moments? Oh wait… it can, but nothing is going to change until I make it change! I’ve been taking classes to learn more and get better. I’ve taken bridal portraits for my best friend and 6-month pictures of my other friend’s son. I’m doing my first newborn session in a week or two. I don’t have an official business or website yet, but I’ve taken the first steps and I can’t wait to get farther down the road.
Here’s to making our dreams become reality! Good luck to you, I know you’ll do great!
Good luck to you 🙂 I’ve really enjoyed your pictures for the past few months, since I found your blog. I live in the Atlanta area, too, so I’ll be sure to pass your name along to friends!
How exciting! I wished I lived in your area. Your photos are beautiful!
Honestly, having seen the photos that you take – I think you can do it! You really do take beautiful pictures and you have a very creative eye for poses, scenes, and angles. I’m sure that it’ll be scary and hard work, but you can absolutely do it!
yup – it sure is!
xo – kb
Not right now but I will be sure to let you know 🙂
xo – kb
I’m cracking up because I was expecting sky diving or something that most people would consider “scary.” Good luck!
You might want to look into smugmug. Your clients can view the galleries online and then print (really great quality photos) directly from there.
Whew! Thanks Erin…I know that my mother really wants more people on her team but seriously, I don’t have enough Depends to cover all the scary stuff in one month!
xo – ktotheb
I second the SmugMug suggestion. I use it, too. They also have great customer service.
Katie!
First of all, I am so happy and proud of you for taking that leap of faith to doing something you absolutely adore and have passion for!
I know exactly what you are feeling because last October I have decided to do what I love and adore which is wedding & Event planning! I have spent several months perfecting my website and getting the “branding” and making my own identity within my company!
I am beyond scared of failing as well, but we never know until we get ourselves out there and TRY!
God will completely honor what you love and you will go far!
The way I see it a lot of people has lost focus on what marriage is truly about. Sure, the decor, arrangements, and color scheme is nice. However, it is a time where you and your husband share a covenant established by God himself! I want to help brides refocus some of their energy and of course create an unforgettable wedding day by not losing focus of what the wedding day is really about.
Anyways, I just wanted to tell you YOU GO GIRL whoop whoop and yippee dipee
Lauren Peterson
Founder/ Head Coordinator of Ellanesque Wedding & Event Planning
Yay! I’m so excited for you and wish I lived in Georgia so you could be my baby photographer!
It would be a huge waste of talent for you to *not* pursue your dream. Kudos to you for taking the bold step to do it – not all of us are so brave!
Katie! CONGRATS for chasing your dreams! I think you’ll make a fabulous photographer, and I love your website! Can’t wait to see some amazing photo sessions…
Congratulations, Katie! You will be GREAT!
I am on a similar journey and totally understand how scary it is. You are already doing way better than me – you have announced it to the world! I still keep my “business” hush-hush because I’m still scared of clients I don’t know. Baby steps, baby steps…. 🙂
I’m a longtime stalker and just wanted to say congrats – and good luck! You take gorgeous pictures and I have no doubt you will be successful. I wish I lived closer, but alas, I’m all the way up north in snowy Brooklyn. If I hear of anyone down in your neck of the woods who needs a photographer, I will send them your way!
Good for you!! It is so, so very hard to put your dreams out there, especially when you have doubts about your probability of success. But who cares if you end up being the best photographer ever or just take a few photos for family and friends? You are doing something you love, and that is pretty powerful stuff. 🙂 And from what I’ve seen on this blog, you are already pretty darn talented!
Congrats on the big jump! You have the talent and potential to become a photographer and I wish you the best of luck. I wish I lived in the area because I love all the photos you take. You capture real moments rather than posed moments and your pictures really show how a person is feeling. Keep up with it and don’t be afraid to be different from the rest of photographers out there. Keep up your blog too!
yay for you, and thanks the inspiration. now, i need to go and do my own “scary” thing.
I think that you will be wildly successful in photography! I looked over your pictures on your photography website and think they are lovely. Your philosophy is very similar to the photographer’s who did my engagement and wedding photos. I was able to buy the rights to my pictures and now I can print them where ever and when ever I want. I will always have those images, those memories, to carry with me.
Best of luck to you!!
God’s blessings to you on this adventure! 🙂 You will make an amazing photog because… you are REAL, you have an amazing eye for detail, and I saw those pics you took at your brother’s wedding. AMAZING!!! Seriously, if you lived closer to the midwest, I would have you photograph my family. I JUST KNOW IT, YOU WILL SUCCEED! 🙂
Katie,
Congratulations!!! I understand how big of a step that is. My dream is to be a photographer too!! I am already working on it, but sometimes I have a fear of failure too, man do I have to get over that or what?? LOL 🙂 Good luck and I can’t wait to see more of your portraits as you grow your business!
By the way….I was just up in your neck of the woods last weekend doing some shopping…my husband even said…do you think they go to this IKEA??? 😉
KATIE BOWER! YOU ARE AMAZING!
If I wasn’t ALL the way in Australia, I would be booking a session with you in a second! In fact, I am very jealous of all those people who live near you and have the opportunity to have you take their photos.
Good luck and congratulations on taking the first step!
Belinda x
One more thing…
A dream only stays a dream, if you don’t try. Soon your dream will become a reality. A little birdie (or owl) told me you will make an amazing photographer!
Congratulations Katie! This is so exciting!
Um….I know this is going to sound really dumb, but I just started reading your blog not too long ago and I thought – from the quality of the pictures you take – that you were already a professional photographer. Oops!
I just got married but I still frequent a fairly popular wedding website that has folks who read your blog (it’s how I found it…through recommendation!). I’ll let them know that you’re opening up! I’m certain there will be a lot of interest in having Katie from Bower Power be the one to shoot your wedding 🙂
Also, for what it’s worth, my photographer (who was phenomenal and cost quite a pretty penny…well, a few thousand pretty pennies) shares copyrights with her clients. In fact, I just got my high resolution DVD in the mail a few days ago. I don’t think it’s very unusual to do and most of the brides I talk to look for shared rights when they’re shopping for a photographer.
Hi Katie,
Congratulations on your decision to become a photographer. I’m sure you have put a lot of time into thinking it over before you decided to make the leap. Please think carefully about your pricing. When you start out with prices like you have listed, you are making it near to impossible to build a successful business. Many think that they can’t charge XX because they don’t have the skills yet, and that is true. However, you should set your prices where you want them to be (real true professional prices not shoot and burner hobbiest prices), and then give a portfolio building discount. This will make it easier for you to transition to real prices that can actually sustain a photography business. TRUST ME ON THIS! I have been a professional portrait photographer for 6 years now. The market is currently saturated with cheapo shoot and burners and I watch them shoot and burn and disappear. You don’t want to be that girl. 🙂
Remember when you are shooting sessions and editing photos you are taking time away from your son and your family and you should be compensated for doing so. There’s no way those prices can ever support that time you will spend doing what you have promised to do. You are basically paying them to take their photo.
Good luck!
you’re going to be an AWESOME photographer. if i were in georgia, i would totally hire you to take pics of my babylove. just the picture of Will’s little feet under the piano in your last post shows that you have such a great eye for detail.
starting out in any solo business venture is always a scary thing. but even the microsofts and facebooks of the world started off as just an idea that one person had. ok, maybe one of those was an idea allegedly stolen from a couple of other people and turned into a billion dollar website, but you get the idea.
i’m on a similar journey, and here’s a cool quote that helps me when i start to doubt myself and lose my vision : People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing – that’s why we recommend it daily.
keep posting those lovely pictures and we’ll keep cheering for you. {in bela karolyi voice} you can do it!
Way to go! The hardest part is taking the first step. You will do awesome and I am sure you will get all booked up very quickly 🙂
I applaud you for putting it out there. The pictures you have taken and shared on your blog are awesome. To me, you don’t have to be the best at anything as long as you truly enjoy it. That’s where the beauty comes into play.
I wish I was in your area to get a photo shoot, to pick your DIY brain, and because I think you are pretty cool.
Good luck with this adventure and with the new house!
AWESOME NEWS!! I’ve been wondering if you had ever considered this possibility (especially in light of the AMAZING photos you are always posting here on the ol’ blog)! If you’re ever passing through Houston, give a day or two of advance notice… I’d love to book a family session 🙂
Yay!!! I’m so excited to hear this. I love your blog and all the home improvement stuff, but my most favourite posts are about photography. Everytime I see your blog in my reader – I hope it is a photography post!!
You were the inspiration for my husband and I buying our first DSLR – just to mess around with, we will never be professionals! I love how you post while you are still learning and share tips and tricks. It makes non-creatively-blessed people feel like they can give it a go too.
Your photos are just amazing and I’m sure they will continue to become even more magical as you grow and learn. Congratulations!!
awesome – I am sending them an email and referring them to you! And then I hope I can go visit some time in within the next few years and hire you myself! It would be so awesome to meet you after communicating via the net a few times and following your blog. I’ll bring the Bacon!
Seriously you would be my favorite client if you brought bacon 🙂
xo – bowbow
Haha! Yes husband we love that ikea 🙂
xo – kb
Do it Angi! It’s so liberating 🙂
xo – kb
Thanks Alison and don’t be a stranger, mmkay?!
xo – kb
Can you please plan a working vacation to San Diego so that you can take some gorgeous pictures of my husband and I? (Our wedding photos leave quite a bit to be desired so I only have 2 small ones printed. Sad face.)
Oh and good luck! You’re going to do great. Your photo posts are awesome!
Bah, you’re already a photographer! The hardest part is putting your skill out there for all to see, and you’ve been doing that for months 🙂 I have a sneaking suspicion that your business success will surprise you… you’ll be amazing! Congratulations on the big step!
Congratulations!! I just started following your blog a couple months ago and honestly already thought you were a pro photographer. You will do wonderful professionally, you have a lot of talent and use such interesting angles and perspectives. YAY FOR YOU!! 🙂
Well I know I’m the THREE HUNDRED AND TWENTY FOURTH person to say this, but I’m very proud of you 🙂 Can’t wait to read all about your triumphs!
Katie,
First of all, i think you’re the cutest most charming Southern Belle out there. I love your blog, you’re so honest and genuine. It really shows in everything you do especially photography. Ever since my wedding I’ve been so fascinated and obsessed with photography. the lighting, angle, composition…etc. It truly is one of the most amazing art form because you’re apart of someone’s special moment. I love love love your photography website. In life, if you do something you love then you dont ever feel like you have to “work” a day in your life. I think photography is your calling. I know you will succeed …no doubt about it 🙂 dont forget about us readers once you become a big time photographer
katie – u are awesome! i always thought that you were a great photographer…from what i’ve seen on your blog. i believe you can do it =) ps. would you travel out-of-state for a session??????? (insert angel face here)
You don’t need a degree to be a photographer, but I bet you would benefit from taking a photography class or two at a local university. Just a few hundred dollars will benefit your life-long photography! A little recommendation from me. 🙂
Best of luck!
That’s great news! I know you’ll be successful and this is definitely what you’re meant to be doing. After following your blog for the past year, I always thought you should start a photography business. So happy to know you’re finally doing it! The website looks fantastic.
You’ll do fine as a photographer. From all the photos we have seen on your blog, and your passion for the subject it will all be great!
Congratulations on your new adventure Katie! I’m a new mom too and I have no idea how you do it all. I’m lucky if I get out of my pjs and into my “nice sweats” 🙂 here you are running a blog, taking care of your family, buying a new house AND starting a new business, you should be very proud of yourself! I would love to have you take photos of my family but sadly we are on the west coast 🙁 but let us know if you are ever in L.A.
I’m certain you already have a small army pounding down your door to book you! Good to see you follow your dreams. Your photos are inspiring!
Kelly
I’m delurking to say good luck to you! It’s scary to admit your dreams, but it’s the first step in making them come true. You’re a great photographer – I know you’ll do it!
best of luck to you!!! although you dont need it!
im always telling people about the beautiful photos you take.
if only you were in australia, so i could use your services 🙂
thank you
ps your website looks lovely too!
krystal
http://krystalleeart.blogspot.com/
Katie, I’m so excited for you! I absolutely relate to the scariness of announcing a goal like that. I’m going through the same thing in preparation of becoming a starving artist during my senior year of high school. The item on my life list says: Open a shop to sell arts and crafts. And to actually do that is a scary scary thought. At least now I know I’m going to get the same thrilling-scary-feeling when going after things in ten years 😛 It’s like riding a roller coaster only without the forty-dollar park entrance fee: Win! Let’s go!
All I can say is.. What took you so long!!!! You have some major talent girl- go for it!!! 😀
Yeah! You are doing the right thing. Your photos are lovely.
We miss 100% of the shots we don’t take. And even though I don’t know you, Katie Bower, I think you are fabulous and smart and talented. And I’m proud of you for trying something that your heart of hearts wants. That’s important. You’d regret it forever if you didn’t.
Fear is amazing, isn’t it? But so worth working through. As a person who is still a scaredy-cat about doing Big Important Things With Her Life, I feel ya.
Just remember this (it helps me) and chant it daily if you have to: FEAR stands for False Evidence Appearing Real. It’s all in your head and you can do it!
Rock it, girl.
Katie!
I am so exctied to hear this! You are an amazing photographer, and I know people all over the country are wishing that you could shoot their special moments for them! Good Luck with everything 🙂
I knew it!! Katie, congratulations on expanding your talent!! I live near Buckhead, but might have to convince the husband that some nice photographs of us would be a plus before we start a family! We never did the whole engagement thing before our wedding and now I’ve kind of regretted it, so perhaps I can convince him to do some photos for our three year anniversary. Good luck!!!
Follow your dreams!! You can do it!!! We’ll cheer you on. 🙂
Woo hoo, Katie Bower! It’s about time!
But when you become a rich-n-famous photog, please keep blogging here!! Bower Power is a wonderful place.
Katie,
I’m sure you’ve thought long and hard about this but I have to say it. . . YOU’RE RATES ARE NOT HIGH ENOUGH!!! (my opinion) You are so talented and to give the photo shoot/editing/and CD with all rights for less than 250 is a steal! I think you are very generous. I wish I lived near you I’d have my maternity photos and newborn photos taken by you AND leave a big tip because you’re worth it.
I get the scary, you’re not being silly.
I think you’re gonna be great. 🙂
Your list is great. I am a list maker myself. Just made a list for the memory book this weekend. You have inspired me to add it to my blog.
By the way I think you take great pictures. Way to face your fear! ;o)
Tiff
Congrats Katie! Just wanted to let you know there’s a discount for joining clickin’ moms until tomorrow:
http://www.texaschicksblogsandpics.com/clickin-moms-sale-ends-monday/?utm_source=Texas+Chicks+Blogs+and+Pics+Rooster+Roster&utm_campaign=f0e8119a20-Great_deals_this_week_from_Texas_Chicks1_29_2011&utm_medium=email
Im thinking of joining… it’s pretty cheap if you join for a whole year. I am super super beginner so you might already know this stuff, I definitely do not! 🙂
I agree with you Katie! I am also a fellow blogger who is just taking baby steps to get my photography passion turned into a successful business. I have no interest in hosting an e-commerce site and trying to run a retain business (selling prints, cards, etc.). My sole purpose in hiring a photographer for my wedding was to repost the pictures on my blog and facebook. I’m going to offer the same to my clients. I’ve only had a few so far and I’ve strongly urged each to print through my source instead of a local drugstore in order to preserve quality. I hate to think that this is going to cause an uproar in the professional photography community. I like to think of it as the next step. No one wants framed 8×10’s as much as they want accessibility to share their images online.
Also, where did you find your copyright release?
Thanks!
Congratulations on taking the leap and putting it out there! You seriously have an amazing talent, and I think this will lead to great success for you! Looking forward to hearing how it’s going- I’m in the process of starting up a business too so I’ll be right there with you. 🙂
Following your dreams can be the hardest scariest thing in your life and it takes a lot of courage and strength to give it a shot. I think you are a really talented, gifted photographer and if I didn’t live miles away in VA I would totally book a shoot with you. Best of luck! I 100% believe you can do it.
Well, it’s about time you finally SAID it since you already ARE a photographer! You already make beautiful photos, now go forth and make money! 🙂
But seriously, what you said about WHY you want to be a photographer is truly beautiful. You have a natural gift for capturing those moments and feelings, and it’s nice to see that you are going to be sharing that with more people.
I have to say this does not come as a surprise in the least…I KNEW this would be your “scary thing”! You are a wonderful photographer and to offer a service like this to people who want affordable beautiful pictures is such a great idea. You are going to be AWESOME…in fact, I bet your business is going to take off so fast you won’t know what to do with it! I wish we were closer because you would be the first person we’d call for pictures! Best of luck to you, have fun:)
Hi Katie!
I know there are a lot of arguments about the copyright bit, but stick to your guns! It’s the wave of the future. This is an article our wedding photographer wrote for the magazine “professional photographer” way back in 2003: http://kachadurian.com/copyright.html. I can’t tell you how awesome it is to own our images!
Good luck with the biz, you have amazing skills! If only I didn’t live 1,200 miles away…
Incredible news! I’ve been a follower of your blog for some time now and I always enjoy your photography. In fact, you inspired me to buy a better camera and try to put more thought into the pictures that I take. Very best of luck to you!
Congrats!! I think your photos are really, really beautiful!! The way you capture the expressions on kids’ faces (especially that adorable little son of yours;) is a gift! You will make an awesome photographer:) If you ever come to Boston, PLEASE shoot me an email!!
Way to go Katie Bower! You are such an inspiration! Reading this I was already thinking….WHERE can I find a photographer like her in my neck of the woods?! I’m a little less deep in the south…KY…so too many hours away, dang it! If not, I would recommend you to everyone I know as well as book my own sessions with you! For what it’s worth, I think the CD idea is FABULOUS. Our photographers for our wedding were wonderful but still charge an arm and a leg 3 years later to have the CD of our pictures. I would adore having them to do whatever I wish with them. Yes, you “own” the art…but like you’ve said, it’s your clients’ memories you’re capturing…and those memories belong to them. God will bless you for following your calling and going with your gut on your decision.
Blessings on your “scary” business venture! I’m pretty sure it won’t be “so scary” here soon when the clients start rolling in!
I think you are SUPER brave!!!! It takes alot of courage to have a dream and go for it. If you ever travel up to the great white north let us know 🙂
I am so glad you are doing photography! You will be so successful. I love to look at your photographs. You are an amazing photographer. You definitely have the eye!!
And just FYI – I would pay top dollar for your services!!!!
Crystal
You can do it! If we lived near you, I would definitely ask you to photograph us. I really appreciate that you want to keep the prices low!
not laughing here! your something scary is mine as well! kudos to you for taking the plunge and just doing it. you’ll do well because your work is amazing!
Wow the site looks great! I wish I didn’t live 1500 miles away from you guys 🙂 That is such a great deal for the price…SUPER cheap…and BEAUTIFUL pictures too!
Good for you!! Way to be brave and go for your dreams. This is awesome and I know you’ll enjoy your journey 🙂 If I was closer, I’d use you. Colorado is a little far 🙂 Best of LUCK!
You are right — that IS scary!! So exciting though, I think you are going to be insanely successful because you are so talented. I see so many people who don’t have an eye for photography try to start up a photog business, but you.. I think you will be perfect at this!
Haha, sounds good! I’ll try less stalking and more commenting (all nice of course) going forward. Again, best of luck to you!
Haha!! Awesome, would have been great if we had run into you guys, I might have fainted though from meeting a celebrity…. 😉
Katie Bower you rock so hard- I don’t think there is anything you can’t do! I just started reading your blog (thanks to Sherry) and I’m totally enamored with you, your family and your fantastic blog. You have a wonderful eye and this photography business of yours will absolutely flourish. Wish I lived closer (I’m in NYC) if I did, I’d totally use you. My mother has always said to me, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”…best of luck to you! xo
Totally not related to this post, but I had to share. And this one is for The Boyfriend as well…Yesterday the Hubs and I pull up to Target and I ask as we park next to a car with a sticker that says VOLS “What’s a Vol?” The Hubs looks at me like I am kidding and says, “Tennessee Volunteers Babe.”
My response is “Oh, Katie likes them! Or her Boyfriend does, she is a married in fan.”
Hubs “Who is Katie?”
Me “Katie Bower!”
Hubs “Who is Katie Bower?”
Me “You know, my blog, Katie Bower!”
Hubs “Oh, Bower Power! Jeeze, you talk about her like she’s actually your friend.”
Me, humm, no response, because as we walk in I am thinking about how strange it is I feel like you are my friend, but I don’t’ really know you. And you have no idea who I am. Blogs are funny that way. And now the Hubs thinks I am crazy (well, he already knew I was, but now he has another reason to think so) but knows your fam are Volunteer fans, and I now know what a VOL is.
I am so excited for you! I already have your photography page bookmarked for use in the future! I am so lucky that you are local!
Katie,
I’m definitely no photographer, but I recently paid a hefty sum of money for wedding photographs in the DC area. Here, it was COMMON PLACE to have your contract include the copyrights to your images. In fact, I would not even consider someone who didn’t include that in the contract. I think you’re on the right track and know that your clients will appreciate it!
Hi Katie,
I just wanted to commend you on saying those scary words! I just kind of did the same thing and contacted another local photographer about being a second shooter (don’t know how I was even able to send the email)! Good luck with your business.
Heather
I also see the point Lexie is making. Always, in any proffesion, there are purists who want to keep the art personal, and keep it at its highest standard. Unfortunately, that translates to $$ for the client often. When I got married 2 years ago I never considered a photographer who who not give me the rights to my own pictures. I asked my photog where the best place to get prints made was. I went with her recommendations (where she had my ‘proofs’ printed). But I would not have used someone who wouldnt release the rights to photos of me. As a ‘start up’, you are on the right track Katie. Im certain if somoene asked you to print photos FOR them, youd be happy to go to a photo shop for them, and create a little up-charge as is the case when you cant print them on your own 🙂
How exciting. Scary, surely but exciting. Your pictures are amazing and capture the beauty of the moment. If I didn’t live on the other side of the country I would get on my knees beg you to take pictures of my babe. And I love your belief that professional pictures should be affordable. The cheap mall pictures make me gag but everything else is way out of my price range. So glad to see you are tackling the middle ground and I’m sure you’ll be wildly successful doing so. Congrats!!!!
I think that is so awesome that your doing this. You are already amazing, and just think how much better you are going to be once you challenge yourself even more! You go girl!
<3,
Adri
http://www.dreambookdesign.com
It’s funny…I read so many blogs that link to you, but somehow today is the first time I’ve happened upon your blog. (Really, I don’t know how that’s possible, as I read 200+ blogs – anything diy!)
Anyway, I think these things happen for a reason! I’m a photographer in the Athens area and I’m more than happy to answer questions, chat, shoot together, etc.! Seriously, just let me know! It’s super easy for others to say “do it this way” or “you have to charge this,” but let’s just be honest – we all started somewhere and we have to figure out what works for us. I know you’ll do great!
Best wishes with your business! Love your blog – adding it to my long list on Google Reader. 🙂
I am so proud of you! You are really taking a step and it takes guts but you are going to be awesome! Your style is very unique and I love it! Good luck! And maybe in the next year or two, we will hire you do do some maternity photos!!
Hey Katie! You do great work. I’m a photographer too (and a mom blogger as well), been working in the business for five years. I think you have a great idea, but I really encourage you to charge for your disc, rather than including it with the session fee. Your work is too good not to be compensated properly for it. I *am* one of those photogs who charges a lot for a 4×6 – actually, my rate is $35 for a 4×6, and it’s because it takes me the same amount of time to edit that image no matter how large or small it’s printed. I hate to see great photographers starting out who are not getting what they’re worth. You don’t have to be a pricey boutique studio if that isn’t what you want – but make sure your clients understand that they’re getting an amazing custom product from a talented photographer, and price your self in a way to differentiate yourself from those who don’t have the talent or resources to take care of their clients in the way that you do! Hope you don’t mind my posting this, but it’s something I feel pretty strongly about, especially as a mom, my time is so valuable, and once you start charging for shoots, there is a lot more work that goes along with the general duties of running a business. When I’m working, I don’t want to earn less than minimum wage by including everything after I’ve spent hours shooting & editing a session. I want to earn what I’m worth commensurate to my experience and knowledge. Thanks for your time. I wish you the best of luck with your business, and if you would ever like to chat about photography, don’t hesitate to email me! 🙂
No Karen – I completely appreciate your comment! And entirely understand your point. And just like I’ve told the MANYmany other photographers who said the EXACT same thing you did in countless emails, these are definitely introductory rates and I am just trying to build a portfolio right now that is going to benefit me in the long run. Obviously things will change to reflect as you said “experience and knowledge”. I am working on the experience and will continue to learn…just takes time,right? 🙂
Thanks so much for your offer – I will definitely pick your brain when I get a breather 🙂
xo -kb
Echoing Karen here! ($20 for a 4×6, $650 for DVD with limited print release and edited images only)
Also, I’ll be in East, TN, not far from ATL in the next couple of months! Would love to do a trade if you’re interested, I always love meeting with other photogs and have a couple of adventures planned with a few photographer friends near your area if you’re interested! 🙂
Good luck! 😀
Long time no talk my sweet friend!!!! I will be contacting you for some photos VERY soon! Your work is amazing and your price is TAKE MY BREATH AWAY good! 🙂 I can’t wait! Plus I still owe sweet Will a visit! I am getting all caught up on your blog and I am so excited about yoru new house, Nate and all your new adventures!! 🙂 HUGS my friend!
Yay! That would be soo fun! I can’t wait to see your little girl…I saw her birthday party pics – and literally was so inspired that I started planning Will’s birthday on the spot 🙂
xo – kb
I know this is way after the fact, but I HAD to respond to this post (as I get caught up on archives and link to this and that)… I’m not just saying this- I don’t know you at all, I just think you are awesome and we would be BFFs if we met in real life- but aside from that, you are a GREAT. PHOTOGRAPHER. great. seriously. Wanna come out to Cali and stay in my house and take pictures of our boys and teach me what all the crazy buttons on my SLR do? We have a beach… fart jokes welcome… hehehehe. just kidding. okay not really.
Anyway. Seriously, keep it up. I so agree with you about learning for the sake of learning and to hell with what the world thinks equals failure. In this, you are already a success. Flickr will attest to that. Best of luck. And really- need a vacay to Pismo Beach? Okay, as Liz Lemon would/might/should have said- creepy awkward stalker out! 🙂