Embracing Change: From Tradesman to Photographer
Transitioning careers after more than two decades in a trade is a journey filled with challenges, excitement, and a profound sense of fulfillment. After 23 years in the trades, beginning as an eager apprentice and eventually running my own successful business, I made the leap into photography—a passion that has been with me since my college years in 1998 and 1999, where I first learned to shoot on film and print in the darkroom.
The decision to pivot from a well-established career wasn’t taken lightly. However, the allure of turning a lifelong passion into a profession was too strong to ignore. As someone who thrives on creativity and connecting with people, photography offered the perfect outlet. The parallels between running a trade business and a photography business are striking, yet the differences have made this transition an incredibly rewarding experience.
The Parallels and Rewards
In both trades and photography, the core of the business remains the same: it’s all about people. My years of experience in the trade industry taught me that the most important aspect of any business is the relationships you build with your clients. Whether I was painting someone’s home or capturing their wedding day, the goal is always to exceed their expectations and deliver what I promised.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this transition has been the overwhelmingly positive response from my clients. There’s nothing quite like seeing someone’s face light up when they receive the photos I’ve taken, knowing that I’ve captured a moment that means so much to them. It’s that reaction, that joy, that makes all the hard work worth it. It’s a feeling that has carried over from my previous career and has only intensified in my new one.
The support I’ve received from family, friends, and even former clients from my painting business has been invaluable. Their encouragement has fuelled my passion and driven me to push forward, even when the road seemed uncertain. They believed in me when I decided to pursue photography full-time, and that belief has been instrumental in helping me build this new venture.
Growing Confidence and Energy
As my photography business grows and my calendar fills up, I find myself more energised and confident than ever before. There’s a certain thrill that comes with seeing your hard work pay off, and each booking is a testament to the trust that my clients place in me. This trust is something I do not take lightly. I strive every day to ensure that I deliver on my promises, and that my clients walk away not just satisfied, but genuinely thrilled with the results.
The transition from tradesman to photographer has been a journey of self-discovery and growth. It has allowed me to merge the skills and experiences I’ve gained over the years with my passion for photography. I’ve learned that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, and that the best part of any business is the people you meet along the way.
Looking Ahead
As I continue to grow my photography business, I remain committed to the values that have guided me throughout my career: honesty, hard work, and a dedication to exceeding my clients’ expectations. Photography, much like my previous work, is all about delivering a promise—a promise to capture moments, emotions, and memories in a way that resonates with my clients.
I’m excited to see where this journey takes me, and I’m grateful for the support I’ve received along the way. Every day, I’m reminded of why I made this change, and I look forward to continuing to build a business that is not just about photography, but about people, stories, and the connections that make life truly special.
