If you’re a photographer struggling to book out or make a profit in your business, you may just be wondering if making $100,000+ per year is a realistic goal. The short answer? Yes, absolutely! In fact, many photographers exceed this amount. However, reaching six figures in photography isn’t just about taking great photos, it’s about running a strategic business and shifting your mindset! This guide will break down myths, numbers, and practical strategies to help you hit (or surpass) that $100K milestone.

Myths About Photography & Making Money

Before diving into the numbers, let’s address some common myths that may be holding you back:

• Myth 1: Only luxury photographers can make six figures. While high-end pricing helps, many mid-range photographers also achieve this goal through volume and smart business strategies.
• Myth 2: You need to book hundreds of sessions. You don’t have to shoot an overwhelming number of weddings or sessions; it’s about pricing and efficiency, and BOUNDARIES!
• Myth 3: You must have a huge social media following. While social media gives some social proof (yes, it’s helpful!), SEO, networking, and referrals often impact bookings more than your follower count on Instagram!

The Quick Answer: Yes, You Can Earn $100K—And More!

Many photographers earn well over $100,000 per year (including me!) by combining strategic pricing, marketing, and client experience. The key is understanding how to efficiently structure your business to reach your financial goals. So if your goal as a photographer is to make six figures per year – it is so possible – and I believe in you!

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How to Make Six Figures as a Photographer

Breaking six figures comes down to simple math and smart business strategies. While you could just book whatever and hope for the best, realistically you NEED to run a CODB and map out an accurate pricing structure to get you there faster.

Let’s look at how to structure your pricing and bookings to reach this goal!

Thinking About the Numbers

To hit $100,000 in revenue, your pricing and the number of bookings need to align. Here are two simple breakdowns as examples:

• 20 weddings or elopements at $5,000 each = $100,000
• 12 weddings or elopements at $8,500 each = $102,000

If you offer additional services (e.g., albums, engagement sessions, elopement planning, Super 8 films), these can be factored into your booking needs to hit that target income goal. Once you have these numbers and your boundaries on booking solidified – filling in your calendar and reaching your $$ goals is SO much more attainable.

Now, how do we get enough inquiries to achieve this goal?

If your pricing structure is aligned with six-figure income goals, the next step is ensuring you generate enough inquiries to book at least 12–20 weddings per year. Writing down what you want to book and actually getting clients on the schedule can be where photographers get stuck!

Marketing Tactics

• SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Optimize your website and blog for search terms like “elopement photographer in [your location]” or “destination wedding photographer.”
• Social Media: While not the only method, consistent Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook content can boost inquiries.
• Content Marketing: Blog posts, social media videos, emails, Google ads, and guides can establish you as an expert and drive traffic to your site. The more people see you and what you offer the more trust you’ll build as the expert in your industry.

Community Building

• Networking with Other Photographers: Second shooting, assisting, and referrals from fellow photographers can lead to consistent bookings. Attend workshops, styled shoots, meetups, etc!
• Vendor Relationships: Build strong connections with wedding planners, florists, and venues who can refer ideal clients your way.

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How Do We Increase Our Average Booking Rate?

Increasing your average booking rate means making each client worth more through premium offerings, sales strategies, and a top-tier experience. The more you raise your prices, the more value what you have to offer should increase. Here are a few ways to add value to your services as a photographer:

Improve Your Client Experience

• Streamlined Communication: Use a CRM like Dubsado for seamless client interactions.
• Exceptional Service: From the first inquiry to delivering final images, make the process smooth and memorable.

Get the Free Guide on How to Create Your 5 Star Client Experience here

Improve Your Sales Strategies

• Value-Based Pricing: Showcase the transformation and experience, not just the deliverables.
• Upselling & Add-Ons: Offer engagement shoots, additional coverage, albums, and film photography.
• Strategic Pricing Packages: Encourage higher spending by creating desirable mid-tier and premium options.

How to Organize your Business with a CRM here

Focus on Unique Packages

• Niche Down: Specializing (e.g., adventure elopements, Super 8 film, hybrid photo + video) allows for premium pricing.
• Exclusive Experiences: Elopement planning, all-inclusive packages, or personalized itineraries add unique value.

Read this guide on When to Raise your Prices as Photographer for more tips

SO, can a photographer make six figures per year?

Heck YES! As you can see, making $100,000 (or more) as a photographer is 100% possible with the right pricing, marketing, and client experience. By structuring your business with intentionality and value, you can create a sustainable, profitable photography career that supports your lifestyle and goals.

If you’re struggling with hitting your goals (or even setting the right goals to begin with) we dive deep into marketing and mindset in the Biz with Boundaries Mastermind for photographers. With the right strategies, skills, and accountability from a pro – you’ll be hitting your photography business goals in no time! Join the community and let’s crush those goals together! You CAN be that photographer that makes six figures a year!