What We Would Do If We Started Our Business Today
If we were starting our photography businesses in 2026, we wouldn’t chase more sessions or try to grow as quickly as possible. We would focus on building a strong artistic foundation, a clear brand identity, and profitable pricing from the very beginning. In this episode, we share the exact order we would follow to build a luxury photography business with more clarity, confidence, and intention.
In This Episode, We Cover
Building your portfolio intentionally through styled sessions
We share why we would plan a full year of curated styled shoots to create a portfolio that reflects exactly what we want to be hired for. Styled sessions give you full creative control and serve as powerful marketing that shapes your brand identity.
Investing in education to elevate your work faster
Your art is the foundation of your brand. We talk about why investing in high quality education early helps you refine your eye, build confidence, and create work that supports profitable pricing sooner.
Finding community while developing your own artistic voice
Connecting with aligned photographers can provide support, inspiration, and shared learning. But it’s equally important to create independently so your work remains distinct and true to your vision.
Setting profitable pricing from the start
Instead of slowly raising prices over years, we explain why it’s more effective to build a strong portfolio first, then set pricing based on your cost of doing business and long-term goals.
Reinvesting into your business to build momentum
During the early stages, reinvesting income into marketing, education, and visibility helps create long-term consistency and growth.
Using SEO and social media together for visibility
Social media builds connection and showcases your artistry, while SEO helps clients who are already searching find you. Both are essential for creating steady, aligned inquiries.
Curating a brand presence that reflects your ideal client
Your website and Instagram should function like a gallery. Being selective about what you share helps position your brand as elevated and cohesive.
Niching down by following what energizes you
Paying attention to which sessions inspire you most helps you refine your focus, attract aligned clients, and build a more fulfilling and profitable business.
The Key Takeaway
The fastest way to build a luxury photography business is not by doing everything. It’s by building your portfolio, brand, and pricing with intention from the beginning.
Resources Mentioned
Use code LEGACY200 for $200 off Amber’s photography courses. Links and a ChatGPT brand identity cheat sheet are available in the show notes.
Follow & Connect
Follow us on Instagram:
Amber: @light_livin_photography
Marie: @marie.elizabeth.photo
Website:
Amber: https://lightlivinphotography.com/
Marie: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/
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