7 business books every photographer should read.

Running a successful photography business involves more than just capturing stunning images; it requires strong business acumen. To help you navigate the business side of photography, here are seven essential books that every photographer should read. These books cover a range of topics, from marketing and customer service to financial management and personal development, providing valuable insights and strategies to grow your photography business.

1. “The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It” by Michael E. Gerber

Michael E. Gerber’s “The E-Myth Revisited” is a must-read for any small business owner. This book dispels the myths about starting your own business and provides a clear roadmap for success. Gerber emphasizes the importance of working on your business, not just in it, and offers practical advice on creating systems that allow your business to run smoothly.

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the difference between working on your business and working in your business.
  • Learn how to create replicable systems to ensure consistency and efficiency.
  • Discover the importance of balancing entrepreneurial, managerial, and technical roles.

2. “Book Yourself Solid: The Fastest, Easiest, and Most Reliable System for Getting More Clients Than You Can Handle” by Michael Port

“Book Yourself Solid” by Michael Port is a comprehensive guide to attracting and retaining clients. Port offers a step-by-step system to help you identify your ideal clients, build a strong personal brand, and create effective marketing strategies that consistently fill your schedule with bookings.

Key Takeaways:

  • Identify and attract your ideal clients.
  • Build a strong personal brand that sets you apart from competitors.
  • Develop a marketing plan that keeps your schedule full.

3. “Show Your Work!: 10 Ways to Share Your Creativity and Get Discovered” by Austin Kleon

In “Show Your Work!”, Austin Kleon encourages creatives to share their process and build an audience by being open and authentic. This book is perfect for photographers looking to leverage social media and other platforms to gain visibility and connect with potential clients.

Key Takeaways:

  • Learn how to share your creative process to build an engaged audience.
  • Discover the power of authenticity in attracting clients.
  • Get practical tips on leveraging social media and other platforms.

business books every photographer should read

4. “Crush It!: Why NOW Is the Time to Cash In on Your Passion” by Gary Vaynerchuk

Gary Vaynerchuk’s “Crush It!” is a motivational guide that encourages you to turn your passion into a profitable business. Vaynerchuk shares his personal story and offers actionable advice on using social media and digital marketing to build a successful brand.

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the importance of personal branding.
  • Learn how to use social media and digital marketing effectively.
  • Get inspired to pursue your passion with confidence and determination.

5. “Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine” by Mike Michalowicz

“Profit First” by Mike Michalowicz introduces a simple yet powerful cash management system that ensures your business remains profitable. Michalowicz’s approach involves prioritizing profit and managing expenses in a way that promotes sustainable growth.

Key Takeaways:

  • Implement a cash management system that prioritizes profit.
  • Learn how to manage expenses and ensure sustainable growth.
  • Transform your business into a money-making machine.

6. “Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen” by Donald Miller

Donald Miller’s “Building a StoryBrand” is a guide to creating clear and compelling marketing messages. Miller emphasizes the importance of storytelling in marketing and provides a framework to help you connect with your audience and communicate your value effectively.

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand the power of storytelling in marketing.
  • Create clear and compelling marketing messages.
  • Connect with your audience by focusing on their needs and desires.

7. “The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan

“The One Thing” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan is a productivity guide that helps you focus on what truly matters. This book encourages you to identify the most important task that will drive your business forward and eliminate distractions that hinder your progress.

Key Takeaways:

  • Identify the most important task that will drive your business forward.
  • Eliminate distractions and focus on what truly matters.
  • Achieve extraordinary results by concentrating on your one thing.