10 Years In: Honest Reflections from a Wedding Photographer

After over a decade in the wedding photography world, I’ve had time to reflect on the lessons, the growth, the failures, and the truths I’ve picked up along the way. This blog isn’t a guidebook or a tutorial—it’s just real talk from someone who’s been behind the lens for a long time and still finds joy in the craft.

I’m Not a Gatekeeper—And Never Will Be

There’s one thing I want to say loud and clear: I am not, and never will be, a gatekeeper in this photography world. There’s a harmful mindset in the creative industry that views every new photographer or filmmaker as a threat. But I’ve learned that collaboration over competition is where the true growth (and peace) happens.

Even though others in this space might technically be your "competitors," the truth is—there are more than enough clients for everyone. Trying to hoard every inquiry that hits your inbox is the fastest route to burnout. When you lift others up, refer leads, or even second shoot for someone else, you're not just being kind—you're strengthening the craft that we all love

Do Quality Work—and Own Your Mistakes

Here’s another truth: I’ve made a lot of mistakes. Lost SD cards. Missed key moments. Refunded a client because I didn’t deliver what I promised. Every one of those moments felt like a punch to the gut. But they shaped me.

Over time, I learned to see trouble before it hits, to back up my work in multiple places, and to communicate clearly with clients. Mistakes will happen—but the goal is to learn from them and grow forward, not hide from them.

Build a Website. Like, a Real One.

Social media is powerful—I’ll never deny that. Instagram and TikTok are amazing tools. But they are rented spaces. If Meta or X or whatever-new-platform disappears tomorrow, and your business is 100% tied to those algorithms, you’re rebuilding from scratch.

A real website is your digital home. It gives you authority, control, SEO reach, and long-term brand equity. You can show your work the way you want, build trust, and not have to worry about likes, saves, or shifting algorithms.

Use a Client Management System (CRM)

Listen, I don't care if you shoot 10 weddings or 100. When someone is paying $3,000+ for your service, they expect (and deserve) to feel like they are the only client you have.

Investing in a CRM changed my business. It allows me to keep every contract, invoice, meeting note, and shot list organized. It helps me remember the small details, deliver consistently, and build lasting relationships. This isn’t just for your workflow—it’s for your reputation.

Let Your Editing Style Evolve

2025 | Columbus City Hall | Bride and Groom Portrait with Sheldon James Photography

2020 | Landoll’s Mohican Castle Luxury Hotel In Central Ohio | Bride and Groom with Sheldon James Photography

In the beginning, I tried to emulate the editing styles that were trending. I stuck to what I thought was “safe.” But over time, I realized that my style needed to grow with me.

Light changes. Weather changes. Venues change. And guess what? Your creative perspective will change, too. Some sessions will challenge your usual way of thinking—and that’s a gift. The more you allow yourself to evolve, the more you’ll find your voice.

Stay a Student—Always

The worst thing you can do as a creative is believe you’ve "arrived." Stay curious. Try new things. Watch YouTube tutorials. Attend workshops. Talk to other artists. Keep learning, and stay confident!

This work we do is beautiful. It's stressful, emotional, fulfilling, exhausting, and inspiring—all at once. But over the years, I’ve found that what matters most isn’t the gear or the presets—it’s how you treat people, how you own your work, and how you grow from every experience.

Here’s to another decade of capturing love and learning every step of the way.

Are you a photographer or creative struggling to bring your brand vision to life? Let’s connect and turn your ideas into something powerful and purposeful.

If you're a photographer looking to break into the wedding industry—or you're already in the game but need direction, structure, or someone to help you take it to the next level—we offer 1-on-1 mentorship sessions tailored specifically for photographers like you.

Whether you need help building your first wedding portfolio, navigating client communication, or learning how to price your work—we’re here to help you grow with honesty and intention.