The worst parts of being a photographer

Working for myself and being a photographer is a dream. But like every other profession, there can be difficult things to handle. I also enjoy being very real with clients, friends, and collaborators on the peaks and valleys of self-employment and being a creative.

Clearly you know this by now, but I'm really into lists. It's much easier for me to write (as well as read!) content in list-form. So here we go!

1. I am my own boss. This is a dream. Seriously. A DREAM. But it's also hard to figure out what to do next. No one is there to tell you the best next step, or how to grow, or what to do to make sure that you're successful. There's a lot of work in preparing for your future!
2. I have to be creative. Don't get me wrong - I love being creative! But sometimes my best creative work is done when I feel it coming. When I must be creative at a certain time, it takes a bit more effort and thought. I'm definitely willing to do it though!
3. I work from home. Also a dream! But being in your pajamas until 4pm doesn't feel as great as you might think. It's comfy, sure, but by that time I need to GET OUT and be social! Making sure I find a balance can take a lot of work.
4. I create nice images...which means sometimes they get stolen. It's pretty maddening when a creative sees their work used by someone else (without credit). Not only is it maddening, but it's actually fraudulent. I confidently reach out to the person or business using my image, and let them know their options. Works like a charm when I'm firm and kind.
5. I am shocked by some of the things people say. Once, I was at a client's business and one of their employees asked me if I made a living from photography full-time. When I smiled and said, "Yes, I've been happily doing it for about 6 months now!" their response was, "WOW! That must be so easy!" I wish I could've thought about this response in time, but of course I thought of it 20 minutes later: "Yep! Easy just like your job!" 

What about the worst parts of your job? It's always interesting to hear about the parts that aren't general knowledge for people outside your industry.

Happy Friday!
Autumn