Do you ever get discouraged by the challenges of running a business? If someone ever told you running a business would be easy they were lying. Running a business requires a lot of hard work and showing up for yourself everyday.

Below are 3 common challenges of running a business, and how to overcome them:

Putting yourself out there.

For so long as a business owner I thought, I should only share my work and stay hidden in the background. I always thought that people wanted to know about my work, not me. (I can’t be the only one who thought this way. Please comment below if you thought or still think this. 👇)

After listening to one of Jenna Kutcher’s informational courses I was reminded this idea is false.

In the business world of today, clients want to connect with you, not just the product you are selling.

It may feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but the more you practice putting yourself out there, the easier it will get overtime.

2. Burnout

Have you ever felt burned out as a photographer?

I know I have. 🙋‍♀️

Burnout can come from a lack of feeling creative and inspired.

It’s easy to get caught up in the route of things and find yourself desiring a change.

My tips to overcome burnout:

When I feel burnt out, I put together a styled shoot
I change things up.
I create an instagram collection or Pinterest board.
I spend time in the Word with the Lord.

3. Losing Business

Have you ever felt as a photographer that you are either tied to one select market, or you have to be all things for all people?

I certainly have. 🙋‍♀️

Coming into my own has been one of the best things for my business.

Your business has your personal style. Whether that is muted, tropical or both, every photographer seems to have a niche look they fall into.

When working with clients, this can be difficult because sometimes:

1. They ask for specific style, even if it’s not what you do.

2. They come to you because they think you only do one specific style. (example: dark and moody images)

In either scenario, you could potentially lose business.

There are two ways to view this:

1. You have a style that you’re great at, so stick to it! Its okay if you lose clients because you are wanting people that love that moody, chill vibe! That’s what brings you joy when shooting and it’s great!

2. You’re like me: always wanting to try new things. I have two different styles that are versatile enough that it doesn’t leave anyone out. This leaves all your options open for as many clients as possible.

Either viewpoint is great!

With either direction that you take, make sure you are clear and inform the client in order for you to deliver to their expectations. If you only do one style and people come to you for another, remind them why they came to you for that look. If they came to you, they must have loved that look and trust you as the professional.

You can also lay out that you have two options. They are different, but you can 100% find one to fit what they are looking for. This gives them the best of both worlds, but also sets boundaries.