I once believed, if I was honest and authentic and created excellent work that I would naturally get discovered by the high-end market and get paid my worth.
That was not the case. After several years into my business… I saw peers shoot past me… they were booking these big beautiful weddings at double & triple my rate. … while I was stuck at the $5K price point shooting 30+ weddings per year in addition to other side gigs…..
I then tried to network…but I didn’t know how to get referrals from high-end planners that I wanted to work with.
I felt lost. I was stuck. I felt completely Discouraged. Most of all… I was tired. I was tempted to go back to a regular steady job… Or just double down to continue serving that $5K client that I knew how to serve. But the truth was… I knew I was settling. Deep down I wanted more. I didn’t want to just be a $5k photographer. I wanted to double my rates and shoot inspired weddings. I wanted to work with top-level planners and get recognized for my work.
I had to acknowledge that what I was doing was no longer working. What got me here won’t get me to the next level.
But I was determined to figure it out. After many years of trial and error… I learned how to build a high-end brand that spoke to high-net worth clients.
I went from being stuck at the $5K price point to doubling my rates each time I leveled up…I went from charging $10K to $20K to $40k and even as high as $75K per wedding…
I learned how to run a strategic business that was still heartfelt while attracting high-end clients that I love working with. I get to shoot weddings that inspire me with couples that express their appreciation for my work. … all the while living a lifestyle I never dreamed was possible.