"Turning my Photography Hobby into a Career: One Year In and My Top Tips!"
Updated: Mar 15, 2025
February 2023 I was in a full time office job, dreaming about a future that didn't involve sitting most of the day at a desk, a 9-5 or having a list of tasks and emails to check off each day. And just to be clear, it wasn't the job or company itself; I had a great boss, work friends and the company looked after me, but I wasn't thriving in that environment and I wasn't happy. I knew something had to change.
I had a DSLR Camera, nothing professional or fancy, but I realised I had a knack for taking photos and I was happy doing it. I was also pretty savvy on the editing side, able to transform nice photos into even nicer photos. After 4 years of office work, I knew it was neither my passion or my strength, and with an increasing feeling of 'itchy feet' I started to consider if the future of my career could head in a different direction entirely.
But HOW?
I had never been paid to take a single photo and I had no professional equipment. How would I get my name out there, build a portfolio, learn and develop my skills. I began to set out a plan, to start an online diploma in professional photography to give me a foundation in knowledge I was lacking. But I needed more than knowledge and a good eye. I needed a portfolio and a brand and most importantly, CLIENTS.
So I handed in my notice (brash I know). Should I instead have started a photography business part time alongside my full time job? Possibly. Would I have gotten to the place I am today as quickly as I have? Unlikely.
So March 2023 I'm jobless, with no equipment, no bookings, no portfolio and quite frankly, no idea. Fastfoward to March 2024, I have photographed weddings, birthdays, charity events, christenings, engagement, corporate seminars, headshots, maternity & family photoshoots and more with an exciting diary for the year ahead.
So these are the top 5 things that took me from scratch, to a growing photography career one year later:
1. Prioritising photography work over any other job - I swapped my full time office job for part time/ad hoc/freelance work in order to have full control over my diary and be able to accept work at any time. I was able to prioritise photography work above all else. The plus side of this was I rarely had to reject any work due to a conflicting schedule, the downside was going from a regular guaranteed monthly paycheck, to well, the opposite. Budgeting became even more vital, and thinking ahead or creatively on extra streams of income became essential.
2. Practice, practice, practice - I brought my camera with me anywhere I could practice without the pressure of a paid gig. Not to mention the editing practice too, I tested out all sorts of scenarios! I photographed some events voluntarily for the experience, networking and portfolio. Whether it’s YouTube tutorial videos, an online course, other photographers or simply practicing in your own time, continue to hone and develop your skills and knowledge. With time and practice your style will come and your portfolio will grow.
3. Other photographers are your friend - You never know when they’ll need an assistant or potentially cover for a gig and they might offer you useful tips! I met a fellow photographer on a waitressing shift while she was taking photos behind the scene, and since then she has asked me to assist her a couple of times for corporate headshots, and I was happy to help set up equipment because I was watching and learning. She even recommended me to work an event she was unable to do, and I was so grateful for that opportunity. That kindness is one I hope I am able to offer someday to a a new photographer in the same situation.
4. Equipment - Lets be honest, photography equipment is EXPENSIVE, not to mention an absolute minefield of choices and options! I did my research, read online guides, YouTube videos and joined Facebook groups for fellow photographers discussing equipment. I decided what I needed and was able to purchase one second hand professional camera body and one second hand professional versatile zoom lens (Canon R6 and 24 - 105mm F4 if anyone is wondering). Buying second hand reduced my initial set up cost and allowed me to begin taking the photos I needed for my portfolio. I got a better understanding of my equipment before I spent too much on the wrong kit and have since invested in additional lenses, a flash, tripod and studio equipment. I certainly have my eye on a few more pieces, but starting with the basics is a great option to build upon.
5. Make yourself visible - Create a website for your business, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Hitched profile, Bark profile. Whatever it is, you need to be able to showcase your work. I joined several Facebook groups for both fellow photographers and clients looking for photographers, and whenever anyone was looking for an assistant, or photography work with a low budget, I was posting my website like mad. Sometimes I got work, and sometimes I didn't, but I kept pushing and trying. Don't underestimate the power of word of mouth! Tell your friends, family, colleagues, whoever! I got my very first wedding job in December 2023 through word of mouth, and it launched me into wedding photography - I have five wedding bookings so far in 2024, and two in 2025 off the back of it as well as assistant work as second photographers for already established wedding photographers.
So there we have it, my top 5 tips to turn a photography hobby into a career. Don't get me wrong, I am still very much in the early stages of my career, learning and developing my skills, but i'm finally making an income and enjoying my work! March 2024 couldn't be anymore different to February 2023, and I wouldn't change it for the world. The thought of going back to an office job fills me with dread, whereas the thought of where I might be in March 2025 fills me with excitement.
I am so grateful to all my clients for putting their trust in me, the last 12 months have been an incredibly journey and I hope my journey continues as I pick up more and more work.
Good Luck!
Katya x
March 2024
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