The Truth About the Starving Artist Stereotype
The "starving artist" myth has been glorified for years, and many creatives, including fashion photographers, unknowingly embrace it. This stereotype of the artist suffering for their work has been romanticized in literature and art history, particularly with figures like Van Gogh, who lived in poverty despite creating masterpieces. But the idea that struggling is an inevitable part of being an artist is simply a myth—and it’s one that can hold you back, both in your business and your personal life.
The Harmful Impact of the Starving Artist Mentality
If you buy into the starving artist mentality, you’re likely undervaluing your work. You might hesitate to charge what you're worth, thinking that it’s more important to "get your work out there" than to earn a fair income from it. This mindset can lead to financial instability, long hours with little return, and ultimately, burnout. You’ll find yourself in survival mode, struggling to keep your business afloat instead of thriving.
Why Does the Starving Artist Myth Persist?
The perpetuation of the starving artist myth can be attributed to culture—movies, books, and even the influencers we follow often unintentionally uphold this idea. There’s also a romantic notion that art created through struggle is more valuable, but this simply isn’t true. Why should the emotional pain behind a piece of art make it more valuable than work made from joy and inspiration? I believe that the best art comes when we’re healthy, happy, and financially secure—not when we’re stressed and burnt out.
Overcoming the Starving Artist Belief
To overcome the starving artist mentality, it’s essential to shift your mindset. You deserve to be well-compensated for your work, and it’s time to set clear financial goals and make a plan to achieve them. Ask yourself the following questions:
What beliefs do you hold about money and art?
How are those beliefs affecting your business decisions?
What steps can you take to start valuing your work more?
Actionable Steps to Build a Sustainable Business
Create a Sustainable Business Model
Your pricing should reflect the value of your work and cover both personal and business expenses while ensuring long-term profitability. Don’t be afraid to raise your rates as you grow—many photographers are still charging the same rates they did years ago, even though their skills and experience have evolved. When was the last time you adjusted your prices?Pitch with Confidence
Get comfortable with pitching your work to brands and building a portfolio that showcases the value you bring to clients. Your unique perspective and skillset are assets that businesses need, so reminding yourself of your value will help you overcome the starving artist mentality.Focus on Your Personal Growth
Developing confidence in your abilities and understanding that you don’t have to suffer to create will make all the difference in your career. Artists can live abundant, successful lives while creating valuable art. You do not need to sacrifice your well-being to thrive in your profession.
The starving artist mentality is a myth that needs to be shattered. By recognizing this false belief and taking active steps to overcome it, you can build a sustainable, thriving career as a fashion photographer. I encourage you to study money mindset, challenge your beliefs, and take action to ensure that your creative work is valued and financially rewarding.
If you found this episode helpful, please share it with other photographers who might be struggling with this mindset. Let’s crush the starving artist myth and build the flourishing careers we deserve.
