Photography hobby or business?

I recently noticed when you search for podcasts or photography-related articles a significant percentage of them talk about becoming a professional photographer or increasing your profits as a professional photographer. There are few that just talk about photography in general or focus on hobbyist photography. At one point in my photography journey, I too had the thought of doing photography to make money. It sounded like it would be fun and rewarding while making money doing something fun. My experience quickly taught me that attempting to run a photography business was work. Even if it were a part-time job. There are deadlines, scheduling, collecting payments, marketing and so much more to make it work.

For me, I find that doing photography as a hobby is much more rewarding. I can do what I want when I want, and how I want. The only person to please is me. I do like money and extra money is always good, but I also like to relax and enjoy the world around me. There are times when I take my camera, walk around, and may not take a single picture. I merely spend the time enjoying the world around me, taking in the sights and sounds. What I do take I can process or not based on how I feel today. I don’t have to keep a steady look and feel. I’m free to experiment and try different styles and techniques.

Of course, I may not be like many other people. I spent a number of years in a stress-filled job and I have a source of income based on my years of working. So, even if you are doing photography to make money or earn a living I would also like to suggest that you keep it as a hobby as well. Take time to take photographs just for yourself where you only have to worry about pleasing yourself and no one else.