The Moment Everything Changed

In 2020, I sat in my friend’s basement, crying, trying to Google “how to get divorced” and “how to start a new business” at the same time. Everything I’d built—my marriage, my business partnership, my entire identity—was gone.

That night marked the start of my journey toward building wealth as a photographer and creating a life built on freedom, purpose, and joy.

Six months later, I did something unexpected: I bought myself a cake that said THE BOSS. I had just hit six figures in my brand-new business. Solo. From scratch.

Recently, I shared this story on An Unscripted Podcast with Photographers—the real, unfiltered truth about building wealth as a photographer. Not the highlight reel. The real numbers, the messy middle, and the celebration mindset that changed everything.

The Truth About Building Wealth as a Photographer

Here’s what no one tells you: wealth isn’t built by working harder. I’ve done the four-jobs-at-once grind—pulled all-nighters and opened the coffee shop at 4 a.m. for $8.36 an hour, all while building a six-figure business on the side.

Everything changed when I stopped trying to do it all and started being thoughtful with money. Instead of guessing, I began tracking. Every single dollar mattered.

When I coach photographers, I tell them this: go back through your last three to six months of spending—both personal and business—and write down everything. Even the purchases that make you cringe. Knowledge is power. You can’t make smart money choices if you don’t know where it’s going.

Financial Strategies That Actually Work

Let’s talk about what’s really worked for me in building wealth as a photographer.

1. Open a High-Yield Savings Account

My brother, who I jokingly call my “unofficial financial advisor,” told me about these accounts. I moved my tax savings into a CIT high-yield savings account that earns 4.5% interest. It takes two or three days to transfer back to my main account, but during that time, the money is still earning for me. It’s not brand new—but it’s real money I wasn’t making before.

2. Use Credit Cards That Pay You Back

I’m loyal to two:

• Delta Amex Business (the purple one): free bags, lounge access, and a companion pass twice a year
• Chase Sapphire Preferred: $300 hotel credit, extra lounge access, and rental car perks

The fees are high, but the rewards are worth it. I’ve earned thousands in travel credits and flown internationally using points. I even stayed in Switzerland this summer for free. The golden rule? Always pay off your cards in full—every single month.

3. Know Your Six-Month Number

Before going full-time in 2018, I saved six months of living expenses. That cushion gave me peace of mind. If everything fell apart, I could take a part-time job without seeing it as failure. Today, if I didn’t make a dollar for six months, I’d still be okay. That safety net allows me to create without fear.

The Mindset Behind Building Wealth as a Photographer

Here’s something I truly believe: celebrate yourself.

When I hit six figures in my new business, I sat alone at home, staring at my spreadsheet. Tears rolled down my face. Then I grabbed my keys, drove to my favorite bakery, and ordered a cake that said THE BOSS.

At first, I didn’t say it was for me. I just smiled and asked, “Can you write THE BOSS on it?” Then I drove to my brother and sister-in-law’s house. They had seen me through every hard moment of that year—it only felt right to have them there for the win.

Now, this is my tradition. Every time I hit a milestone, I buy a cake and celebrate with the people who helped me get there. Because if you don’t celebrate your wins, you’ll burn out chasing the next goal.

What Taking 2–3 Months Off Each Year Taught Me About Wealth

When people hear that I take two to three months off every year, they often say, “Must be nice.” And honestly—it is. But it’s also part of the plan.

I plan my time off between January and March, when business in Minneapolis slows down. I’m not giving up income—I’m protecting my energy.

Here’s the surprising part: I make more money working nine months a year than I did working twelve.

That’s because:

• I have systems in place (auto-responders, a CRM, and a strong team).
• My business runs smoothly without me being “on” all the time.
• I treat rest like a business plan, not a reward.

Taking time off isn’t the prize for success. It’s how I keep going and stay creative.

The Real Truth About Financial Freedom

Financial freedom doesn’t always look glamorous. It’s not yachts or designer bags—it’s peace.

Having a full-time assistant handle daily details gives me time to focus on what matters most. I get to lead an incredible team of women who shoot weddings while I focus on coaching and creative direction. Because I know my numbers, I can reinvest in my business without stress. And sometimes, it’s as simple as sitting in the grass after kayaking, phone-free and completely at ease.

Freedom is built on boundaries, systems, and trust.
And yes—it includes cake.

Want the Full Conversation?

In An Unscripted Podcast with Photographers, I share more about my journey, including:

• How I handled the financial side of divorce while rebuilding my business
• My exact travel rewards strategy
• Why I hired a five-hour-a-week assistant during my lowest point
• How to know if you’re ready to go full-time
• The biggest money mistakes I made—and what I’d do differently

🎧 Listen here → An Unscripted Podcast with Photographers

Ready to Take Control of Your Finances?

I created a free guide that shows you how to:

• Track personal and business expenses
• Calculate what you truly earn and spend each month
• Find your minimum income number
• Identify where to save or reinvest
• Set goals that match your lifestyle

This is the same system I use with my coaching clients—and it’s completely free.
👉 Download the Financial Freedom Guide →

The Bottom Line

Building wealth as a photographer isn’t about working harder—it’s about being clear, consistent, and intentional.

Know your numbers.
Make thoughtful choices.
Celebrate your wins (preferably with cake).

I’ve rebuilt from zero, worked four jobs at once, and hit six figures multiple times. It’s possible for you, too.

So track your spending. Open that high-yield account. Buy yourself a cake when you hit a goal.
And if you want a partner in the process—I’m here.
Book a coaching call →

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Connect with Me

📸 Instagram: @mycahbainphoto
💰 Free Financial Guide: mycahbain.com/money
🎙️ Listen to the podcast: Spotify Link
📧 Email: hello@mycahbain.com