Reflecting on Two Years in Business: Lessons from Reinventing My Life
In 2020, when our world turned upside down, I completely reinvented my life. The pandemic forced me—like so many others—to reassess what truly mattered. I found myself searching for more purpose, especially in my career.
Then, I stumbled upon an online professional photography course.
That course and the mentors I met along the way changed everything. Photography had always been a passion of mine, but I had never pursued it seriously. Suddenly, I saw the possibility of turning that passion into something real.
So, I dove in headfirst. I spent the entire year of 2020 honing my craft, learning the business side of photography, building a website, and putting marketing systems in place. By 2021, I was officially in business.
Looking back at my first two years as a photographer and entrepreneur, I want to share the five most significant lessons I’ve learned along the way.
1. Networking is everything.
Starting out, I was so focused on learning that I didn’t prioritize networking as much as I should have. If I could go back, I would make it my number one priority from day one. Meeting other business owners isn’t just about getting clients—it’s about learning from people at every stage of their journey. Their advice, support, and mentorship are priceless. No one builds a successful business alone.
2. Accountability partners keep you going.
Being a solopreneur can feel overwhelming. There are so many hats to wear—marketing, sales, social media, content creation, client work, and so much more. Having an accountability partner (especially another photographer who understands the industry) has been a game-changer. Knowing that someone is there to check in, offer feedback, and keep me on track has helped me stay focused and motivated.
3. Be intentional with education—don’t just collect courses.
I’ll be honest—I went overboard with online courses. Whenever I felt stuck, I convinced myself that the next course was the missing piece. The reality? I didn’t need more courses—I needed to implement what I had already learned. Now, I have a plan and a budget for continued education, and I stick to it. Learning is essential, but action is what moves the needle.
4. Personal branding creates clarity.
I always talk about the importance of personal branding (and I will continue to!), but I’ve learned firsthand that the more you share your work and your story, the clearer your brand becomes. At first, it’s easy to mimic what others are doing because you’re still figuring out your voice. But over time, as you consistently put yourself out there, you naturally refine your style, attract the right people, and build a brand that feels authentically you.
5. When you find your purpose, work doesn’t feel like work.
The biggest lesson of all? When you wake up every day doing what you love, it doesn’t feel like you’re “going to work.” Yes, there are frustrating tasks and things I don’t love doing (hello, bookkeeping), but the core of my work—my craft—feeds my soul. That has changed my life more than anything.
Finding your purpose shifts everything. It makes you let go of things, people, and jobs that no longer serve you. It makes you want to be a better person and serve your clients in a way that genuinely improves their lives. It also shifts your perspective on success—because when you’re doing work that fulfills you, the material things start to matter less.
Looking Ahead to 2023: A Year of Growth
This year is all about growth—both personally and professionally. I’m here to serve people who need beautiful photography for their business or themselves. I know firsthand the power photography has to transform how we see ourselves, and I’m deeply grateful to be able to give that experience to my clients.
If there’s one thing I hope you take from my story, it’s this: It’s never too late to change your life. If you’re feeling stuck, uninspired, or like you’re meant for something more, take the first step—no matter how small. You never know where it might lead.
Wishing you all an incredible year ahead—may you find what sets your soul on fire.
