Turning a passion into a thriving business is something many dream about but few achieve. At 27, I’ve built a 6-figure wedding photography business, and while the journey has been incredibly rewarding, it hasn’t been without its lessons. Today, I’m sharing some key takeaways that helped me grow, not just as a photographer but as an entrepreneur.

If you want the full story, be sure to check out the podcast episode embedded below.

Lesson 1: Let Money Make You More Money

When I first started as a wedding photographer, I didn’t immediately jump into the deep end. My journey began with small steps—working as an assistant, then as a second photographer, and finally photographing a family member’s wedding. Each of these experiences taught me invaluable lessons about the craft and the business.

But here’s the kicker: I reinvested every dollar I made into growing my business.

I poured my earnings into education, books, courses, and equipment that would help me improve my skills and deliver better results. These investments weren’t just expenses; they were stepping stones that elevated my craft and positioned me as a professional.

At the same time, I avoided living beyond my means. I’ve seen too many people in their 20s get caught up in trying to portray a lifestyle they can’t afford. I made a conscious decision to prioritize my business over fleeting appearances. Until I was consistently earning six figures, you’d find me shopping at Primark or wearing the same outfits repeatedly.

The lesson here? Stay humble, focus on what matters, and let your money work for you. Success is built on the foundation of smart investments and a clear understanding of your priorities.

Lesson 2: You’re Only Getting Started. Explore, Test, Fail, and Repeat.

Before I found my niche in wedding photography, I explored a variety of creative outlets. I tried my hand at painting (turns out, I’m terrible at it), dabbled in music as a drummer and percussionist, and even attempted to design a magazine. None of these ventures stuck.

But that’s the beauty of it—every failed attempt brought me closer to discovering what truly lit me up. When I picked up a camera and started capturing weddings, something clicked. It felt right.

The willingness to explore and fail is what eventually led me to my passion. Each misstep taught me something new about myself and what I wanted to create. If you’re just starting out, don’t be afraid to test the waters in different areas. Failure isn’t the end; it’s a stepping stone toward clarity.

Lesson 3: Surround Yourself with People Who Believe in You and Push You Forward

No one succeeds in isolation. For me, my parents have been my greatest cheerleaders. From a young age, they encouraged me to pursue my passions and supported me when I decided to try entrepreneurship for a year. Their belief in me gave me the confidence to take risks and dream big.

But not everyone has a built-in support system. If that’s your reality, remember this: you can choose your own family. Surround yourself with people who inspire and uplift you. They say you’re the sum of the five people you spend the most time with, so make sure those five are pushing you toward growth.

This principle doesn’t just apply to your personal relationships. Think about the content you consume. Who do you follow on social media? What kind of information are you feeding your mind daily? These choices shape your mindset and, ultimately, your success.

I’ve never been afraid to pay for access to people who inspire me. Investing in mentors and coaches has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I chose mentors based on where I wanted to be and surrounded myself with their knowledge and insights. Hearing how they think and approach challenges helped me grow in ways I couldn’t have on my own.

What These Lessons Mean for You

Building a 6-figure business isn’t about overnight success or luck. It’s about consistent effort, strategic investments, and a willingness to fail forward. It’s about choosing the right people to surround yourself with and staying true to your goals, even when it’s tempting to take shortcuts.

If you’re curious to hear more about my journey and dive deeper into these lessons, I’ve recorded an entire podcast episode where I unpack everything. From my early struggles to the strategies that worked for me, it’s a candid look at what it takes to turn a passion into a thriving business.

Listen to the full episode here!

Final Thoughts

Success is a journey, not a destination. Wherever you are in your career, remember that you’re just getting started. Embrace the process, invest in your growth, and surround yourself with people who lift you higher.

What’s one lesson from this blog post that resonated with you? Share it in the comments below or send me a message—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

And don’t forget to check out the podcast episode for more insights. Let’s grow together.