… I wish I did photography full time. I got asked this morning, by a client, when I’m going to take the plunge… and the truth is I’m not ready. It’s a scary thought, and I’m not sure I’ll be able to earn enough from it… I also think I would have to consult to top up my income. And I don’t think I’m ready to consult until this project I’m working on is complete. And then I’m hoping I’m not too old.
Don’t knock me for the age thing… it’s a serious worry of mine… there’s an age thing in my head about funky women photographers and I wonder how sustainable photography would be for me.
Then I got home from the shoot this morning (which was postponed in the end anyway), and on the way I got an offer for a wedding in the middle of the week, which I had to turn down. I had to turn down another offer for today from a corporate because I actually need to spend at least 2 hours a weekend with my kids… and I completed an invoice for a company whose function I’m doing in September only because it happens after working hours.
There’s just so much business I’m starting to turn away during the week, because it’s just not possible. And in fact, I’m even turning away weekend work now because I need some family time too.
I hate turning things down… but I’m still not ready… not yet. I wonder if I’m ever going to be ready.
Comments
Colleen Sevitz
I often admire the way you work and do photography on week-ends, I wouldn’t be able to do it.
For me, getting enough money to cover the bills and still try and get equipment is very stressful, there never seems to be enough for both. I need a new camera, I need a new lense, but I also need to buy groceries.
But I am not doing weddings, that would probably help in terms of finance, those are the big money spinners.
Jim
I know what you mean, I have been the same with some of the work I do outside my normal job. I would love to work for myself but the guaranteed income is important.
I understand the frustration, and understand the aversion to taking the plunge, especially with a family, but as a photographer you are definitely ready. I wont comment on the age thing as I really didn’t even think of it, I know really amazing photographers of all ages… Never seen a “funky women photographer” before though… sounds interesting
I am sure you have things to work out yourself before you take the plunge, but in the mean time please keep being an inspiration to the rest of us!
J
Wenchy
I would love to be a photographer…. while I have an eye, I don’t have the skill… and the knowledge and being the ‘mom’ with kids to support I would be so scared not to earn enough.
Otherwise I would love to write….
But, in reality in I sell my corporate soul.
I think you are incredibly brave and talented.
Marylin
I think you will get there eventually hun.
What about if you priced up all the offers you have to turn down, and see if you would in fact make the same money as you do while working? Then you would be making a more informed decision? (not that you’re not making an informed decision anyway… you know what I meant!)
*hugs*
Corey~livingandloving
this sums up one of the main reasons I’m scared to even try. It is all so confusing.
I worry photography will become a HAVE TO, and less of a WANT TO.
cat@juggling act
It must be a huge decision to make. I am sure you can do it though – you certainly have the talent and the ability, but as someone that owns a business, I can tell you it is never as easy as getting a paycheck every month.
As to age – I think you can let that one go though. As long as you keep re-inventing yourself and your work you stay young (look at Madonna for instance)
If I could have my career life over, I’d be a photographer.
Alet
I agree 100% with Cat, let the age things go. I have a feeling it may happen sooner than you think!
*hugs*
Angel's Mind
The proverbial rock and hard place. Very tough place to be in.
Marciaf
I sooo get you! I have a day job and I'm a speaker and coach after hours and on weekends and with speaking gigs, I just take off the day.
My goal was to be full-time when I turned 35. Well, that was last year… I definitely don't make enough money to support me full-time so that's not even an option BUT I wonder if I have the guts to actually do it… ever. I'm learning that security is a BIG deal to me and I like the security of being in corporate.
What would be ideal is to have a half-day job and do my business…