February 19, 2026

What We Would Do if We Started Our Business Today

31 minutes

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

Amber: @light_livin_photography

Marie: @marie.elizabeth.photo

Website:

Amber: https://lightlivinphotography.com/

Marie: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/

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By Marie Elizabeth and Amber Courtney

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