3 Mistakes New Commercial Photographers Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Written By ashleigh amoroso

Breaking into commercial photography is exciting — and a little intimidating. You're stepping into a world where creativity meets business, and your images don't just have to look good; they have to work for your clients.

Over the years, I've seen many new commercial photographers make the same early mistakes — ones that are completely avoidable with the right mindset and preparation. Here are three of the biggest pitfalls and how you can steer clear of them:

1. Undervaluing Their Work

Many new photographers entering the commercial space drastically underprice themselves. It's understandable — you're trying to get your foot in the door, build your portfolio, and land your first clients. But undercharging doesn’t just hurt you; it lowers industry standards and attracts the wrong kind of clientele.

How to avoid it:

  • Research market rates for your type of work and location. Talk to experienced photographers or join industry groups (Like THE CLUB!) to get a sense of what’s fair.

  • Charge based on value, not time. Commercial clients aren’t just paying for your hours; they’re investing in images that will help them sell products, build brand awareness, or close deals.

  • Create licensing agreements. Understand usage rights and factor them into your pricing. A photo used on a national ad campaign is worth far more than one used for a local brochure.

2. Not Understanding the Client's Needs

New photographers often focus too much on creating “pretty pictures” without asking why the client needs the images in the first place. Commercial photography isn’t just about aesthetics — it's about solving business problems.

How to avoid it:

  • Ask strategic questions before the shoot:

    • Where will these images be used?

    • Who is the target audience?

    • What emotions or actions do you want the images to evoke?

  • Think like a marketer. Understand the brand’s voice and objectives. Your job is to create images that work — not just ones that fill your portfolio.

  • Collaborate, don’t dictate. Commercial photography is a team effort involving art directors, brand managers, and stylists. Be prepared to take input and adjust your approach on the fly.

3. Neglecting the Business Side

Passion and creativity are important, but if you neglect contracts, licensing, invoicing, and client communication, you’ll quickly find yourself overwhelmed — or worse, in legal trouble.

How to avoid it:

  • Use contracts every time. Whether it’s a big national brand or a small local business, always outline the project scope, deliverables, payment terms, and usage rights in writing.

  • Invest in systems. Use tools to manage estimates, invoices, file delivery, and client communication. Setting up a professional workflow early will save you huge headaches later.

  • Think long-term. Building relationships, following up after jobs, and delivering consistent, professional service will keep clients coming back and referring you to others.

Final Thoughts

The leap into commercial photography is challenging but incredibly rewarding. By charging your worth, understanding client needs, and treating your work like a true business, you'll build a solid foundation for a thriving career.

Remember: it’s not just about taking beautiful photos — it’s about delivering real value. Nail that, and you’ll stand out in a crowded industry.

ashleigh amoroso