Running a food-photography business is rewarding—but it’s also filled with complexity, growth and lots of lessons learned. After nearly ten years behind the lens, I’ve distilled the most important insights that can help you whether you’re just starting out or already deep into your creative journey.
1. Every “No” Can Become a “Yes”
When you’re building a business, rejection is part of the process. Clients may initially respond, “no,” “we don’t have room,” or “we’re not working that way right now.” But time works in your favour. Six months, nine months—even years later—a “no” can turn into a “yes” if you’ve done the groundwork. The work you do now matters for the future.
2. Mindset Matters More Than the Photos
It might sound odd for a photographer: yes, great images matter—but your mindset matters even more. Doubts, imposter syndrome, fear of creativity—they can all hold you back. It’s rarely the technically best photographer who succeeds; it’s often the one who shows up consistently, believes in their work, and works on their mindset.
3. Diversify Your Income Streams
Relying only on shooting day-to-day can be risky. To thrive long-term, branching out is critical. Maybe you sell digital products (e.g., e-books, courses), maintain a blog with ad revenue, or take on a part-time job while your creative business evolves. The key is spreading your income sources so the pressure doesn’t drain your creativity.
4. What’s the Worst That Can Happen?
Fear is a constant in creative business. But ask yourself: what’s really the worst outcome? Often it’s something you can resolve. Take on that unfamiliar job, experiment, make mistakes. Nine times out of ten you’ll be okay. The worst case rarely happens—and the potential gain is far greater than the risk.
5. Value Your Time—and Use It Consistently
You won’t get everything done in a day—but showing up regularly and working steadily will compound results over time. Improving your craft, building momentum, refining your visuals—it all happens through repetition, discipline and enduring presence.
6. You Are Your Best Investment
Gear matters. Courses matter. Even more important: believing you’re worth the investment. I played the cautious game for years, waiting for someone else to invest in me. The truth is: no one else will invest like you do. Whether it’s time, education or tools: put your energy into yourself. That’s where the growth comes from.
7. Give Yourself Permission to Say “No”
Early on I said yes to everything—and it was a trap. Saying yes to wrong projects drains you, distracts you, and dilutes your voice. Learning to say no frees you up for the right opportunities—ones aligned with your style, your values and your future direction.
8. Trust Yourself and Build Your Confidence
Trusting yourself is a skill you build. Confidence doesn’t fall out of the sky; it comes from practice, from showing up, from doing the work. Eventually you’ll stop wondering if someone else will believe in you—because you’ll believe in yourself first.
9. Find Your Creative Community
This field can feel isolating. Creative work + business pressures = steep terrain. Finding others who are on the same path—friends, colleagues, fellow photographers—makes a massive difference. Conversations about mindset, clients, creative blocks: they’re a lifeline. Community not only supports but enriches your journey.
10. Enjoy the Journey
You’ve heard it before: it’s not just about the destination. Running a food-photography business is hard. Being creative every day is hard. But if you love what you do—if you lean into that love and find ways to enjoy the ride—you’ve already succeeded. Loving the process is part of the goal.
If you’re running your own food-photography or creative business, take a moment: Which of these lessons resonates most for you right now? What’s the one insight you’ve already learned, or still need to work on?
