Real Talk – Balancing Motherhood & Being a Business Owner

Balancing Business and Motherhood: The Real Behind-the-Scenes

Running a photography business while raising a baby is one of the most rewarding—and challenging—experiences of my life. I knew that being a small business owner came with long hours, constant decision-making, and the pressure to always be “on.” I also knew that becoming a mom would completely change my world. What I didn’t fully grasp was what it would feel like to do both at the same time. Before I got pregnant I often referred to life as my “boss bitch era” LOL. I prided myself on work and growing my business and wanted the confidence to own it! Life changes so much and no one really can prepare you for having a kid.

Let’s be real: balance is a moving target.

Some weeks, everything clicks. I’m editing during nap time, responding to inquiries with ease, and even managing to sneak in a hot cup of coffee. Other weeks, I feel like I’m barely staying afloat—chasing deadlines while also chasing a crawling baby around the living room.

But here’s what I’ve learned: it’s not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about adjusting expectations, giving myself grace, and redefining success.

Success now looks like:

• Answering emails while baby naps in the carrier.
• Scheduling shoots around family time.
• Choosing presence over perfection—both as a mom and a photographer.

I’ve had to shift how I work. I plan ahead more. I’ve created systems that support flexibility (thank you, online galleries and client management tools!). And I’ve gotten really good at doing a lot with short bursts of time. When you’re a mom and an entrepreneur, multitasking becomes second nature.

But more importantly, I’ve learned to honor the season I’m in.

I know this season won’t last forever. The baby snuggles, the first giggles, the early milestones—they’re fleeting. And so are the seasons in business. Some months I have a full calendar of shoots and editing. Other times, I intentionally scale back so I can soak in more time with my family.

To anyone else walking this same path—trying to nurture both your business and your baby—I see you. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. You can be both a loving, present mom and a passionate, dedicated business owner. You’re allowed to grow your business and your family at the same time.

And maybe, just maybe, the very things that feel hard right now are the things that will make us stronger, more compassionate, and more grounded—both behind the camera and at home.