What Photography Business Model Do You Have? | Virtual Assistant
Let’s talk photography business models for a sec. Not the boring, textbook kind—but the real-life way your photog business actually runs.
Something that can be realllllly helpful to identify is what kind of business are you running?
The way I see it, there are two “main” models of business. While plenty of options exist outside of these, broadly speaking these are two staples:
1. The high-end luxury approach:
This is the more boutique approach. You take on fewer clients but offer a really elevated, personalized experience. From planning sessions in detail to styling the wardrobe or hand-crafting a wedding timeline: and delivering a luxury service. Your value is in the attention and care you give every step of the way. It’s a slower pace, but at a higher price point—and the experience reflects that.
2. The higher-volume, streamlined approach:
This one is more automated and built for efficiency. It also allows you to take on a higher volume of clients. You’ve got systems in place, you’re shooting more frequently, and the experience is still solid—just more structured and less time-intensive. It’s about working smarter with tools, templates, and a dialed-in workflow that lets you serve more people with consistency.
Both of these are great photography business models. Neither is more “right” nor more “professional.” But knowing which one you're running—or want to run—makes a huge difference in how you spend your time, what you outsource, and how you grow sustainably.
Clarity on your vision also helps a lot with the mental load of running your business. You can cut through the bullshit and find what works for you.
If you’re somewhere in the middle or unsure, that’s okay too. A lot of people start in one and shift over time. But getting clear about what actually works for you (and your life) helps cut out a lot of noise and burnout.
So take a minute this week to think about where you land—and what kind of support that vision really needs.
More than niching down into a style or genre, figuring out what photography business model you’re pursuing can offer SO MUCH clarity.