The DC Blog

Welcome photographers, to your very own business roadmap. Let’s look at where you currently are and what might help you in reaching your next step. I’m here to support you in any way I can!

Regardless of where you are in your business, there will always be ways to improve and level up. I want this blog to serve as a guide, and show you where you can invest, based on where you are now, in order to create the business of your dreams.

Before we dive in, I want to remind you of this: being a creative entrepreneur is a journey. Each of us have different backgrounds, different stories, and began at different times. Don’t let what you see others accomplishing ahead of you discourage you. You’ll get there in time, all it takes is that first step!

The very first step all of us take in our photography journey is simply picking up a camera. But what about all those pesky camera settings? With all the abbreviations and weird names, it can feel like a beast! Thankfully you don’t have to guess every time you pick up your camera, thanks to The Complete Guide to Camera Settings.

Once you’ve had a chance to play with your camera, and capture some awesome shots, it’s time to conquer editing. Lightroom can feel intimidating at first glance, but I promise it’s not as scary as it looks! With a little practice, and some help from The Editing Course, you’ll be rocking and rolling. (Oh - and if you have the basics of editing down, but feel like your photos need a little extra something, it might be time to invest in presets!

So now you know how to work your camera, and you’re starting to hone in on your editing style. (Don’t worry, it’s a process, so give yourself grace!) Now it’s time to book a client or two. The easiest way to set yourself apart from alllll the other photographers out there is to build out a killer client experience. I recommend working on professional pricing guides that you can send during inquiries, and handbooks that you can give your clients once they’ve booked, so they know what to expect. If I’m speaking your language right now, check out The Client Experience Bundle. I promise, it’s got your back!

Another critical piece of your client experience is your contracts. It is SO important to be covered legally in the creative world, and I can’t stress enough how a solid contract can completely transform your business. But where in the world do you start? Check out The DC Contract Bundle. Not only will you be completely covered if anything goes awry, but you have the confidence that these were written with lawyers so have your best interest at heart.

All of these pieces come together to form one thing - a solid foundation. Even if you feel good about all the pieces above, there will always be something new to learn. That’s why I created Rise Academy. Think of it as your one stop shop for photography education + community. Not only do I drop new lessons monthly, but the old content never expires. (It’s almost like Netflix for photographers?!) Regardless of where you are in your journey, there’s a seat for you at the table. Check out my academy HERE, and let’s grow together!