A profitable portrait photography business doesn’t happen by accident. Many photographers fear pivoting away from weddings, worried they’ll lose steady income. But my client just proved otherwise—she made $5K in just five days after launching her new brand.
Here’s why this shift worked for her and why portraits could be the revenue stream you’ve been overlooking.
The Fear of Leaving Weddings Behind
For years, I’ve heard photographers say:
- “If I stop taking weddings, I’ll lose my main income source.”
- “Portrait sessions don’t bring in enough money.”
- “I love weddings, but I’m burnt out and don’t know what else to do.”
It’s easy to feel like portraits are just filler—something to book on your open dates for a few hundred dollars. But the truth is, when you go all in, portraits can be just as profitable—if not more—than weddings.
Why Portrait Photography is More Profitable Than You Think
I’ve worked with countless photographers who have made $1K, $2K, even $3K per portrait session.
The key difference?
They stopped treating portraits as filler and started treating them as their main offer.
Here’s why portrait photography can be a game-changer:
- More Consistent Cash Flow
- Weddings are seasonal, but portraits? They sell all year long.
- Branding, seniors, boudoir, newborns, and families—there’s always demand.
- Higher Profit Per Client
- Many photographers cap their portrait pricing at $500 because they’re used to quick mini sessions.
- But full-service portrait photographers charge $1K–$3K per session—and book them on repeat.
- More Flexibility, Less Burnout
- Weddings require full-day commitments, long editing timelines, and high-pressure expectations.
- Portraits give you control over your schedule, pricing, and client experience without the wedding-day stress.
My Client’s $5K Success Story
Last week, my client launched her new portrait brand, trusting her gut and pivoting away from weddings.
In just five days, she made $5K in bookings.
And this is just the start.
She’s already set up to scale, and I have no doubt that she’ll continue booking high-ticket portrait clients who value what she offers.
Is It Time to Make the Shift?
If you’ve been thinking about pivoting away from weddings or scaling portraits as a main offer, this is your sign. There is money in portraits—you just have to be willing to trust the process.
If you’re ready to restructure your business, attract high-paying portrait clients, and build a sustainable photography brand, I’d love to help.
Let’s get to work—click here to learn more about 1:1 coaching and start building a business that works for you.
Want to connect with other photographers who are scaling their businesses and pricing confidently? Join my free Facebook group Scale Your Photo Biz – Abby Waller Insiders Group for exclusive tips, live trainings, and a supportive community of like-minded creatives! Click here to join now.
