Podcast Summary: This Can't Be That Hard — Episode 319: Building Your Photography Business as a Side Hustle

Host: Annemie Tonken
Release Date: June 3, 2025

Annemie Tonken returns with Episode 319 of This Can't Be That Hard, addressing photographers who are juggling their passion with other full-time commitments. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for those building their photography business alongside other jobs, offering actionable strategies to create a sustainable and fulfilling entrepreneurial journey.

1. The Reality of Building a Business Part-Time

Annemie opens the episode by challenging the prevalent notion that to succeed in the photography business, one must be fully committed from the outset. She states:

"There's this idea that if you're serious about your photography business, you have to be all in, like, full time, fully booked, or nothing at all. But real life just is not always that neat and tidy, right?" (00:00)

She empathizes with listeners who are managing their photography endeavors during evenings and weekends, emphasizing that a part-time approach can provide the necessary structure and clarity to build a sustainable business over time. Annemie reassures photographers that balancing a side hustle with other jobs does not diminish their commitment or capability.

2. Embracing Limitations as Design Tools

A core theme of the episode is the concept of using time, energy, and resource limitations as design tools rather than obstacles. Annemie shares an illustrative example from her own family:

"My brother is a furniture maker... he didn't wait until he had the perfect setup. He got really good at working within the limitations that he had." (09:00)

She draws parallels between woodworking and photography, highlighting how constraints can foster creativity and intentionality. By defining preferences (what you love shooting, client experience) and parameters (work schedule, family commitments), photographers can design a business model that aligns with their current realities.

3. Avoiding the Comparison Trap

Annemie warns against the common pitfall of comparing one's slow, steady progress to others' seemingly rapid successes showcased on social media. She articulates:

"A successful business isn't defined by how fast you grow or how loudly you talk about, is defined by how well it supports the life you want." (21:45)

She encourages photographers to define success on their own terms, whether it means covering specific expenses, maintaining creative freedom, or managing stress levels. This personalized definition helps maintain focus and prevents feelings of inadequacy fueled by external comparisons.

4. Maximizing Limited Time with Clarity and Systems

With limited hours to dedicate to their businesses, photographers must prioritize tasks that truly drive growth. Annemie suggests a critical exercise:

"Ask yourself, if I only had one hour this week to work on my business, what would make the biggest difference?" (35:30)

This approach helps eliminate time-wasters and focus on high-impact activities such as delivering exceptional client experiences, refining pricing structures, and simplifying booking processes. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of implementing systems—like automations and templates—to streamline operations and conserve precious time.

5. The Importance of Proper Pricing

Addressing a sensitive topic, Annemie tackles the challenges part-time photographers face in setting their prices. She observes:

"The value that you bring to your clients is not tied to the number of hours you work." (49:15)

She urges photographers to price their services based on the quality and value they provide, not merely the time invested. Higher pricing can reflect the scarcity and intentionality of their limited availability, combating feelings of inadequacy or imposter syndrome that may lead to undercharging.

6. Advantages of Running a Part-Time Business

Annemie highlights several benefits of maintaining a photography business as a side hustle:

• Intentional Decision-Making: Without the pressure of relying solely on photography income, photographers can make thoughtful choices that align with their values and goals.

• Foundation Building: Part-time operation allows for the gradual development of systems and workflows, ensuring a stable foundation for future growth.

• Creative Freedom: The flexibility of a part-time business fosters a creative environment where photographers can experiment and refine their craft without burnout.

She concludes this section with poignant advice:

"Build your business intentionally, not reactively. And remember that the slow, steady, thoughtful path isn't just good enough. It is often the most sustainable one there is." (58:40)

7. Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Annemie wraps up the episode by reinforcing the central message that a photography business does not need to conform to a full-time model to be successful or legitimate. Key takeaways include:

• Start Where You Are: Utilize existing resources and work within current limitations to build a business that fits your life.

• Focus on Essentials: Prioritize tasks that have the most significant impact on your business's growth and sustainability.

• Define Success Personally: Establish what success means to you, independent of societal or industry standards.

• Invest in Systems: Implementing efficient systems is crucial for managing a business with limited time.

"Your business really doesn't have to be full time for it to be real or for it to be successful. It just has to work for you." (70:15)

Annemie's insightful discourse serves as both encouragement and a practical guide for photographers striving to balance their passion with other professional or personal responsibilities. By embracing a part-time approach, setting clear boundaries, and focusing on meaningful growth, photographers can cultivate businesses that are both profitable and personally fulfilling.

Resources Mentioned:
For more tips and resources, visit thiscan'tbethathard.com.

Call to Action:
Annemie invites listeners to subscribe, leave reviews on iTunes or Spotify, and engage with the community to share their own experiences and successes.