Where I See Photographers Struggle (and How You Can Avoid It)

Why Unwillingness to Change Might Be the Biggest Risk to Your Career

Over the years of working with commercial photographers, I’ve noticed something that makes the difference between those who build a thriving, fulfilling career… and those who end up changing careers.

It’s not about talent. It’s not about gear.

It’s about being willing to change.

And I don’t mean changing your editing style every week or following every new trend that pops up on Instagram. I mean being open to growing — in your mindset, in your business habits, and in the way you see yourself as a creative professional.

The Photographer Mindset Piece No One Wants to Talk About

Your mindset shapes everything. If you believe you’ve “already tried everything” or that “things just never work out” — you’re putting a lid on your own growth.

I sometimes see photographers holding on to old ways of working, avoiding learning new tools and collaborating with others or telling themselves, “That’s just not me.” But the truth is, your business can only grow as much as you do.

The you that got you this far might not be the version that takes you where you really want to go.

Scarcity Thinking In Business — The Silent Dream Killer

Operating from a place of scarcity means making choices from fear. Fear there won’t be enough clients. Fear you’ll lose money. Fear you’re not “ready” yet. You might have seen this in your clients too — have you ever come across a small business owner who doesn’t have the budget to pay for your time? Yep, they’re operating from a place of scarcity.

It often shows up like this:

Saying yes to every single client, even the ones who drain you

Keeping your prices low because you’re scared people will say no

Avoiding investing in your business because “what if it doesn’t work?”

Scarcity thinking keeps you small-instead of growing as a photographer. It whispers for you to play safe instead of playing smart — and that’s when the best opportunities quietly pass you by. I often tell my mentees that feeling a little scared is actually a good sign. It means you’re growing as an artist, stepping into new territory, and pushing your own creative boundaries. That’s usually when you produce your best, most inspired work — the kind that surprises even you.

The Uncomfortable Thing You’ve Been Avoiding

Here’s the gentle nudge: The growth you want is probably hiding in the exact place you don’t want to go.

Sending a pitch to that dream brand

Raising your rates

Posting work you love, even if you’re worried it won’t get a big reaction

Connecting with a stylist, but you're worried that something will go wrong or you make excuses that they live too far away from you

Learning the business and sales side of photography (even if these aren’t your love language)

Every photographer I know who’s built something incredible has done things that scared them. They didn’t wait to feel ready — they took the step anyway.

My Personal Experience With This

When I first started my commercial photography business, the idea of putting myself out there terrified me. Showing up on Instagram, pitching brands, even doing location shoots — it made my stomach twist with nerves. I kept imagining all the worst-case scenarios: they’d say no, I’d fail terribly… you name it.

But somewhere under that fear, there was something stronger: a drive to succeed. I cared more about building something meaningful than I did about avoiding failure.

So, I did my first restaurant shoot with almost no experience — scared out of my mind, but I did it anyway. And then I reached out to a brand I truly admired. I told myself it didn’t matter if they said no; what mattered was proving to myself that I could take the leap.

That leap changed everything. That first “yes” in 2019 opened the door to a series of projects that shaped the next chapter of my career. More than that, I discovered something vital: when you step outside your comfort zone, even if it feels wobbly or scary, the joy and sense of fulfilment on the other side is incomparable.

Looking back, I realise the fear never fully disappears — but my relationship with it has completely shifted. Now, when I feel that flutter of nerves, I don’t try to push it away. I see it as a signal that growth is waiting for me.

A Kind Challenge for You

If you’ve been feeling stuck, ask yourself:

Where am I resisting change?

Where am I making decisions from fear instead of possibility?

What small, brave step could I take today and every day from now on towards my main goal? Ask yourself where do you want to be a year from now and what can you do everyday, to make that reality?

Here’s the truth

Change doesn’t come from anyone else — it comes from the brave choices you make for yourself.

Change is uncomfortable.

But staying stuck is uncomfortable too.

You get to choose which discomfort leads you somewhere better.

And I’m cheering you on every step of the way.

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