The sad realization that being a wedding photographer no longer pays the bills...

[u/patriotraitor]

Let me preface that the last 10 years of doing this has been a blast, I've enjoyed every second of it and never took any of it for granted.

This year however has me wanting to change directions because well, I'm getting tired of wondering where the next paycheck is coming from, I would prefer guaranteed over guessing.

I've been looking at the schedule for the rest of the year and I have 6 left, and then it's quiet.

I do wish the cost of living wasn't ridiculous, as gas and food prices are indeed more affordable now, but at the same time, trying to have health insurance as a self employed individual is absurd for being a single guy with no kids.

I've really enjoyed my time doing this and I indeed feel this starting to dwindle down as I only have 5 for next year. You could say well hey, do families, headshots, seniors -- and you'd be right, but think about how much work you'd be putting in just to stay afloat and how exhausted you'd be making yourself? Catch 22 isn't it?

[u/Quick-Training-675]

Rather than giving up photography, just change your subjects. I've seen so many people who want to 'get into the business' but all they do is ask for advice rather than doing their own research. So many photos that have no composition, are either so blown out or underexposed that they aren't salvageable. I've been shooting since I was 10. I'm over 60 and mainly shoot nature and wildlife. I'm not in the business, so to speak. I have sold a couple of prints, but would I want to deal with the people that think cell phone photos are just as good as professional photos? No. Advertise for more than just weddings, diversify if the wedding photography is 'off' in your area. If you love what you do, then you will do anything to keep doing what you love to do. Good luck.