When people think about hiring a photographer, they usually imagine one simple job: someone holding a camera and taking beautiful photos.
And yes… that’s part of it.
But running a photography business involves a lot more than just showing up with a camera. Behind every gallery delivered, every session booked, and every image shared online, there’s an entire list of roles happening behind the scenes.
As a pet photographer, boudoir photographer, and lifestyle photographer based in the Edmonton area, I wear more hats than I ever imagined when I first started Coral Konanz Photography.
Here are just a few of the job titles photographers secretly hold.
Photographer (Of Course)
This is the role most people see — creating images that capture emotion, connection, personality, and moments that matter.
Whether it's photographing a dog’s goofy grin, a couple’s quiet connection, or a woman celebrating her confidence during a boudoir session, this is the heart of the work.
But the truth is… the photography itself is only a small part of the job.
Photo Editor
Every image you see delivered to a client has gone through a careful editing process.
This includes:
• color correction
• exposure adjustments
• artistic styling
• removing distractions
• refining the final look of the image
Editing is where the story of the photo is finished.
For many photographers, editing can take just as long — or longer — than the session itself.
Marketing Manager
Running a photography business means constantly sharing work, educating potential clients, and helping people discover your services.
This involves:
• writing blog posts
• creating social media content
• planning promotions
• building a website
• improving SEO so people can find you online
For example, if someone searches “pet photographer near Edmonton” or “Spruce Grove boudoir photographer,” the goal is for my website to appear so they can find the experience they’re looking for.
Marketing never really stops — it's an ongoing part of running a successful photography business.
Social Media Manager
Those posts you see on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok?
Photographers create those too.
This means:
• planning posts
• writing captions
• editing videos
• responding to comments and messages
• sharing behind-the-scenes content
Social media has become one of the biggest ways photographers connect with their community and show what the experience of a session looks like.
Client Experience Manager
Before the camera ever comes out, there are conversations happening.
Answering emails, helping clients choose the right package, planning session locations, discussing outfit ideas, and making sure clients feel comfortable and excited.
For many photographers, this part of the job is incredibly important.
Because great photos don’t just come from a camera — they come from trust and connection.
Animal Wrangler
When you specialize in pet photography, this becomes a very real job title.
Photographing animals often involves:
• treats
• squeaky toys
• funny noises
• patience
• and sometimes a lot of running around
But it’s also one of the most rewarding parts of the job — capturing the personality of a pet and the bond they share with their people.
Bookkeeper & Accountant
Running a business also means managing the numbers.
Invoices, expenses, taxes, software subscriptions, equipment costs, studio rentals — it all adds up.
Photographers spend time tracking finances and making sure the business side of things runs smoothly.
Graphic Designer
Photographers also design many of the materials their clients see, including:
• session guides
• social media graphics
• marketing materials
• albums and print layouts
• website pages
It’s another creative role that helps bring the brand and experience together.
Customer Support
Questions come up all the time.
Clients may ask about:
• booking
• image downloads
• print orders
• session preparation
• rescheduling due to weather
Photographers are often answering messages at all hours to make sure clients feel supported throughout the process.
Storyteller
More than anything, photographers are storytellers.
The goal isn't just to create pretty photos.
It's about preserving moments.
The way your dog looks at you.
The way you laugh with your partner.
The quiet excitement before a baby arrives.
The confidence someone feels when they finally step in front of the camera.
Those moments become memories that last long after the session is over.
Why It’s All Worth It
Running a photography business means wearing a lot of different hats.
Some days you're editing photos late at night.
Other days you're answering emails, planning sessions, designing marketing, or brainstorming new creative ideas.
But at the end of the day, it all comes back to one thing:
Creating images that mean something.
Because photos aren’t just pictures.
They’re the stories we hold onto forever.
Looking for a Photographer in the Edmonton Area?
If you’re looking for a pet photographer, lifestyle photographer, or boudoir photographer in Edmonton, Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, or Parkland County, I would love to work with you.
Whether it’s celebrating the bond with your pet, capturing connection with the people you love, or creating an empowering boudoir experience — your story deserves to be remembered.
👉 Head over to the Contact Page to start planning your session.
