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Is going full-time as a photographer still worth it in 2025? In this episode, we unpack Rachael’s decision to leave her corporate job (again!) to pursue photography full time—and what it really takes to make that leap.

We talk hustle culture, the pressure to always be busy, why “full-time” looks different for everyone, and how client trust is built (and broken) through turnaround times, communication, and consistency. Plus, we get into the tea about photographers charging premium rates but not delivering on timelines—and how that affects the industry as a whole.

Whether you’re part-time, full-time, or stuck somewhere in between, this one’s for you if you’ve ever asked:

“Am I legit if I’m not full-time?”

“Is burnout inevitable?”

“How can I actually run a business and not just have a hobby that pays sometimes?”

Let’s talk boundaries, burnout, and being a boss—even in this economy.

In this candid episode, we’re unpacking the real, unfiltered journey of navigating life between a full-time corporate job and the dream of being a full-time photographer. From quitting a 9-to-5 during COVID to shooting 50+ weddings in one year, to dipping back into the corporate world—and now feeling the creative itch again—we talk about burnout, stability, money anxiety, social pressure, and everything in between.

Whether you're debating if you’re “legit” enough to go full-time, wondering if it’s okay to not go full-time, or just trying to juggle it all without losing your mind, this one’s for you. Spoiler: everyone’s path is different, and that’s totally okay.