Every photographer hits a moment where they realize they’ve been busy… but not always intentional.

In this episode of The One Behind The Lens, Kate walks photographers through building a clear, realistic business plan for 2026 — without overwhelm, hustle culture, or complicated systems.

This conversation is about defining success on your terms, simplifying what you offer, understanding your numbers, and creating a business that supports your life instead of running it.

Whether you’re feeling motivated, stuck, or somewhere in between, this episode is your reset.

🧠 What We Cover (Timestamps)

[2:05] Why January 2 is the perfect time to plan (and why you’re not behind)

[4:40] Why most photographers avoid business planning — and how it leads to burnout

[7:30] Defining success beyond bookings, busyness, and Instagram

[10:15] Choosing focus: simplifying your offerings and revenue streams

[13:20] Setting realistic income goals without fear or pressure

[16:10] Reverse-engineering your numbers to support your life

[18:45] Simplifying your marketing so consistency feels doable

[21:30] Protecting your time, energy, and creativity in 2026

[24:10] Why clarity beats urgency every single time

💬 Quotes to Remember

“Your business should support your life — not consume it.” – Kate DeCoste

“You don’t need a perfect plan. You need a clear one.” – Kate DeCoste

“Clarity creates confidence. Confidence creates momentum.” – Kate DeCoste

“If you don’t choose your direction, your business will choose it for you.” – Kate DeCoste

📄 Free Resource Mentioned

Build Your 2026 Photography Business Plan – Free Worksheet

A fillable, easy-to-use worksheet created specifically for this episode to help you follow along and map out your year with intention.

✔️ Fill it out directly in Canva✔️ Download as a PDF✔️ Or print and write it out

👉 Download here or Fill out in Canva

🎧 New Year’s Binge Alert

This episode is Episode 1 of 2 dropping today for your New Year’s binge.

Next up: a real, honest conversation with Functional Nutritionist Ivy Towler — where we talk about our bodies, hormones, digestion… and yes, poop.

It’s real talk about topics that can feel awkward or embarrassing, but matter more than we realize.

When this episode ends, keep listening.

👋 New Here?

If you’re new to The One Behind The Lens and haven’t listened to Season One yet — bookmark it.

🤍 Connect with Kate

📸 Instagram: @katedecoste

🌐 Website: katedecostephotography.com

🎧 Watch or listen here:https://pod.link/1826428370