We’re at the end of a series for photographers and aspiring entrepreneurs called “Making the Leap” where we’re sharing our ten practical steps for going from part-time photographers to full-time. Or, as author Jon Acuff puts it, going from your day job to your dream job without it becoming a nightmare.
When we were little, our parents used to tuck us into bed at night. We’d brush our teeth (when we were old enough to have them), wiggle one arm and leg at a time into our pajamas (Ninja Turtles and Little Mermaid, respectively), and before story time, they’d pray with us. Jordan’s dad would kneel at the side of his twin bed, close his eyes softly, naturally, and rest his elbows comfortably on the dinosaur sheets. Jordan, still small and newer at it, knelt beside him and prayed like every child does: head jutted up and forward, awkwardly, eyes squeezed tight like a clenched fist, and arms extended all the way to heaven just to reach the top of the bed. Amy’s parents prayed with her, too, except that instead of getting on their knees, they’d snuggle up in the sheets, cuddle together in bed, and talk to God. Amy’s never been one for leaving the comforts of a warm bed if she doesn’t have to.
They taught us to believe
We prayed all the time.
And God showed up. In the most clear and convincing ways, He showed up. The way He always does. In people. In the friends and family who encouraged us. In the mentors who advised us. In the clients who trusted us. In everyone who hugged us, held us, and with the sincerest eyes looked at us and said, “We believe in you.” To those people, our army of angels, you know who you are, and thank you.
For us, going full-time wasn’t, as our pastor says, a leap in the dark. It’s been a walk in the light. A commitment. A resolution. A sacred trust. That building a life dedicated to loving and serving others couldn’t not succeeded if we did business differently, and instead of measuring our success in currency, we measured it in changed lives.
No matter where you were yesterday, where are you are today, or where you’ll be tomorrow, you can’t do it alone. None of us can. Maybe it’s time to set down the camera and remember what it was like to sleep in dinosaur sheets or wear Little Mermaid pajamas. To be a child. To have faith. To believe. If it’s been a long time, maybe now’s the right time. Maybe it’s time to get down on your knees.
Maybe it’s time to pray.
We’re so proud of our shooting and editing course students all across the world! They’re shooting better, editing faster and serving their clients better than ever before!
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