Top 3 Must-Read Books for Dog Photographers in their First Year of Business

I’ve been a full time artist for over a year now. The first year in business can be quite a rollercoaster, full of self doubt, joy, and a dash of exhaustion. These are books that I have found myself referring back to over and over again since discovering them in my first year in business.

1. "Rest" by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang

Picture this: starting a dog photography business can be like chasing your tail, and you might find yourself running in circles. You may feel like you have lost your creative inspiration, are stuck on solving a problem, or are simply burnt out. I found "Rest" by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang, and it has become the book that I refer back to the most. This book reminds me that success isn't just about working non-stop and if you are a creative (if you are reading this I imagine you are!), it teaches you how to use rest as a tool to allow yourself to be creative. This book is packed with studies to back up their points of how rest can allow your brain to problem solve, think of new ideas and to avoid burnout. Reading this book made me feel like I unlocked secret tools and also, it gave me permission to rest and play.

2. "The Gap and the Gain" by Dan Sullivan

Now, let's talk about Dan Sullivan's "The Gap and the Gain." My mentor, Heather of the Flourish Academy recommended this book, and I am so glad that she did. This book encourages us to focus on progress rather than striving for unattainable perfection. Starting out, I often got bogged down by the gap between where I was and where I wanted to be. But thanks to Sullivan's wisdom, I began to appreciate every small victory and milestone along the way. It's about enjoying the journey and celebrating those little wins, no matter how small they may seem at first. In the world of dog photography, every new skill learned, every great shot captured, is a part of my gain.

3. "Doggie Language: A Dog Lover's Guide to Understanding Your Best Friend" by Lili Chin

Last but certainly not least, we have Lili Chin's "Doggie Language." Understanding the language of dogs is like having a superpower in my line of work. Chin's book is a treasure trove of insights, with adorable illustrations that make it easy to decipher what our pups are trying to say. It's not just about snapping a photo; it's about capturing the genuine emotions and personalities of our four-legged companions.

To sum it up, my first year as a dog photographer has been a wild ride, filled with personal growth, aha moments, and boundless passion. These three books – "Rest" by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang, "The Gap and the Gain" by Dan Sullivan, and "Doggie Language" by Lili Chin – have been like trusty companions on this adventure, offering valuable life lessons, business savvy, and a guide to dog body language.

So, whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a dog enthusiast, or just someone in need of a little inspiration, remember that books are like friends who guide and inspire us. Embrace the wisdom they offer, and let them light up your path, just as they've lit up mine.