Is there such a thing as work-life balance? We hear different variations of this question just about everywhere these days. Each of us has to find our own balance, however, and can’t rely on the solutions another person has come up with for themselves. It’s always helpful to learn from others, though, so I’m going to share the work-life balance tips I’ve learned since becoming a family photographer. Because, while I absolutely love pouring myself into photography, when I don’t stick to my rules, it comes at a cost to our family. And as a mom first forever and always, that’s not okay with me.

I set hours that fit my family’s life

I have to work around both the sun (because I’m a natural light photographer as much as possible) and my family. And just like the sun changes with the seasons, my family’s schedule changes based on school, extracurriculars, and summer activities. During the summer, I may have later hours because light lasts longer and our schedule is more flexible. During the fall and winter, I work around all the activities my kids have going on, because it’s super important to me that I’m in the stands to support them.

Nope, I can’t just “bring my camera” to your kids party

You all know I love you, so I’m going to be straight here. If you invite me to a party and then ask if I can “just bring my camera to snap a few pics” the answer is going to be no. I’ll come to your party, but I try to keep work and social life separate. I can’t enjoy interacting with you and other party-goers if I have to be ready with my camera.

I will respond to your email/text, but it won’t be the very next second

I make it a point to read and respond to every email or text I get, but it may not be right away. I have to do this to protect myself from constantly being on my phone communicating with clients.

Last minute reschedulings won’t work

If you have a conflict come up, I TOTALLY get that. Please just bear in mind that my schedule fills quickly, so my next available appointment may not be for several weeks. I can’t rearrange my schedule to fit in reschedulings.

You respect my time, I respect yours

It’s all about the relationships built on mutual respect. I do my best to make sure we move through our session as quickly and efficiently as possible, and I expect the same from you. That being said, I am really flexible with kiddos because I understand they don’t always operate on our timetables. 🙂

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