Welcome to a new feature I’m going to be doing on here, called “Work at home Wednesday.” I’ve been away from it for a few weeks, but now we are back at it. Each week, I’m going to feature a different Smart Spending Spot reader and what their job or career is, something that is either work at home or starting your own business. This will hopefully give all of our readers an insight into what these different jobs are like, if you are thinking of switching career paths.
If you want to be featured on Work At Home Wednesday, click that link and fill out the form.
This week we meet Erin, of Erin Farrell Photography. She does wedding, births and portraits. She is also on Facebook.
How she got started: I’ve always loved photography ever since I got my first camera at 10 years old. I just never thought to make it my job until I was engaged and researching wedding photographers. My husband said ‘your work is just as good as what I’m seeing — you should start your own business.”
I was teaching preschool at the time and knew i wanted to be a stay-at-home mom, so I figured this would be a great way to bring in some money while staying home with my children.
She works 25-35 hours each week and her salary varies.
What she likes best: I love meeting new people and photographing memorable moments — from the best man’s speech at a wedding to the itty bitty toes of a newborn baby . . . . it’s all worth capturing on camera forever.
Unexpected hurdles: Being a photographer is SOOOOO much more than just taking pictures. The business side of it can be overwhelming at times. I actually enjoy the business aspect of it, but my biggest struggle is staying organized.
This is her 6th year in business and she’d like to stay in it as long as possible.
How do you grow or expand? I would like to do more birth photography though. It’s my favorite thing to photograph, but it can be hard finding people willing to allow you in the delivery room. Plus being on call is tough when I’ve got three little ones at home.
And her advice to other moms who might be thinking of doing this: Get your basic camera skills down first. THEN worry about starting your own business. You may be an awesome photographer, but a crappy business person. Know what to outsource and what to do yourself.
totally missed this review! I went to high school with erin, so naturally, i looooove her. but bias aside, she is an incredible talent! we’ve been lucky enough to have several sessions with her and hope to have more in the future.