The Real Truth About Quitting Your 9-to-5 for Photography | Understanding What It Takes to Go Full-Time pt. 1 of 8
- Blink Photography Co.
- Sep 24
- 5 min read
Updated: 9 hours ago
If you've made it here, chances are you are sick and tired of punching in and punching out every day of your life and are ready for a change: doing what you care about. I don't blame you. Life is too short to be miserable! Burn out is real.
Here's the truth though: Going full-time as a photographer is possible, but it's not a decision to make on a whim.
There are countless factors to consider, and plans to be made before quitting and committing. In this article we will discuss some factors and factoids to consider, and what it will really take to turn your photography into a profitable, sustainable business. Affiliate links may be used throughout, which does not affect you negatively in any way. It does not increase the price of the item(s) we recommend. Should you decide to purchase an item(s) via our links we will receive a small commission as a 'thank you' from the represented company. Thank you for your support! :)
Key Takeaways
Quitting your 9-5 requires more than just taking pictures.
Set S.M.A.R.T. goals to track progress toward your full-time photography dream.
Build multiple income streams (i.e. clients, digital products, and passive income) before leaving your current job.
Start now, while you still have your 9-5 paycheck, to avoid financial stress later.
Consistency and strategy matter more than overnight success stories you see online.
Myth vs. Reality
Social media is chocked full of glamorous lives filled with destination weddings, huge brand deals, collabs, and what seems like "perfect" lives. Its easy to see how so many only see financial freedom, flexibility, and happiness. However, what you don't see are the 10-hour or overnight editing marathons, slow seasons when cash is tight, and skills they had to learn the hard way through trial and error.
Reality: Being a full-time photographer means that you are first and foremost a business owner first, artist second. You will be responsible for every work flow and task: taxes, client management, marketing, editing, scheduling, building your website and social media management, just to name a few.
This doesn't mean that its not worth it. It is, if you are willing to put in the time, effort, and dedication.
Do the Financial Math First
I'll let you guess what the first mistake is new photographers make when quitting their jobs...
You guessed it: They don't actually know how much money they need to make in order to survive.
Your Survival Number
Let's start by calculating your survival number by looking at your regular bills and spending...
Rent/Mortgage: ?
Utilities: ?
Groceries: ?
Vehicle/Transportation: ?
Insurance: ?
Min. debt payments: ?
Subscriptions: ?
Phone: ?
Extras: ?
When you add it all up, this is your monthly baseline income goal. In other words: the bare minimum to keep your bills paid.
Factor in Business Expenses
Now don't forget about the expenses you will have. As a full-time photographer, you will need:
Gear: ?
Equipment: ?
Editing software: ?
Website hosting or booking platform: ?
Marketing tools or ads: ?
Taxes: ?
Ex. If your personal expenses are $3,000 and business expenses are $1,000 monthly then you will need to make $4,000 to break even.
Build a 3-6 Month Cushion
Before quitting, aim to save up enough money to get by for 3-6 months. This will give you some breathing room for slower booking seasons or for unexpected situations. I suggest aiming for the higher end of the bracket (6 mos.). This will give you more cushion and financial safety.
Ex. If you expect to have $4,000 monthly in expenses alone, I suggest saving $24,000.
Build Multiple Streams of Income
Relying on client sessions only for income can leave you financially vulnerable at times, especially during slower seasons. That is why I recommend looking for extra sources of income to fill in the gaps. There are 2 core areas to focus on...
Client Work
Family sessions
Portrait sessions
Branding photography
Pet photography
Seasonal mini sessions
Digital Products
Lightroom presets
Photoshop brushes
Posing guides
eBooks
Marketing kits
Food for thought: Book 20 sessions for $250 each within the next month to clear $5,000! Sell 100 Lightroom preset packs for $10 each to make $1,000.
📍 Shameless plug in... check out our resell bundle! Includes a bunch of Lightroom presets you can sell as well as templates and an eBook you can resell! 📍
Build Your Photography Business While You're Still Employed
Quitting cold turkey may sound exciting and adventurous, but is rarely a good idea financially. Instead, opt to build your business plan while you're still employed and earning a paycheck. Here is a step-by-step plan to consider...
What will your niche be? Explore options that are interesting and profitable.
Build your portfolio. You may have to offer free or discounted sessions first to build a decent portfolio.
Create a simple website. This doesn't have to be an expensive task. There are free, albeit limited, options out there. Check out Hostinger for affordable and reasonable options. For a booking system only, check out Session. Plans start out pretty cheap.
Start marketing locally, whether that be in your local newspaper, on Facebook, or other socials. Marketing doesn't have to be costly: there are free avenues available.
Gain consistent, steady bookings over a period of time. See how things are going for you and what your net earnings are. Aim for around 6 months of consistent earnings before turning in your notice.
The Mindset Shift
Going full-time as a photographer or creator is not only a financial shift, but a mental shift as well. Things don't always go as planned, and things can feel really inconsistent at times. Here are things to consider...
You won't always feel inspired or motivated, but you have to show up anyway.
You will feel like quitting, but remind yourself why you've made this decision.
You are a CEO now. As well as marketer, financial officer, and customer service rep. You are responsible for it all.
Learn from your mistakes. Don't quit because of one bad month or bad session. Mistakes are gonna happen.
Your worth does not equal your likes or followers. Focus yourself on revenue and results, not vanity metrics.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning from a 9 to 5 to being a full-time photographer may seem super risky and crazy to some. Giving up a consistent paycheck for a paycheck that may come sooner or later can feel too adventurous or too unreliable. However, this is why you must seriously consider all aspects of this transition. I think you would agree that this is a huge step to take! However, it is completely possible to make it work. It is completely possible to make as much money as you are able... as long as you are willing and able to put in the work for it. I believe in you. Stay tuned for part 2, where we will discuss how you can Create a Realistic 12-Month Photography Business Plan.
FAQ | The Real Truth About Quitting Your 9-to-5 for Photography
1. How do I know if I’m ready to quit my job for photography?
If you have consistent client bookings, 3–6 months of savings, and a strong marketing plan, you’re on the right track.
2. How long does it take to go full-time?
Most photographers transition within 6–12 months of steady work and marketing.
3. Can I go full-time with photography without shooting weddings?
Absolutely! Families, branding sessions, seasonal minis, and digital products can all generate full-time income.
4. What if I don’t have a niche yet?
Start broad, then track what brings you the most joy and revenue. Specialize over time.
5. Do I need thousands of followers to succeed?
No — even 500 engaged followers can generate consistent bookings if they’re your ideal audience.