Financial Mentorship for Photographers: Who Kristen Helps (and Why It Works)

26 Jan Financial Mentorship for Photographers: Who Kristen Helps (and Why It Works)

If the word “finances” instantly makes your shoulders tense—you’re not alone. Most photographers can talk confidently about light, connection, and composition… but feel overwhelmed when it comes to cash flow, pricing, taxes, and long-term planning.

That’s exactly where Kristen comes in.

Kristen has run a successful newborn and family photography business in Charlotte, North Carolina since 2012. Before photography, she worked in wealth management, advising high net worth families on retirement and investment strategies—and earned her CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation. That combination is rare, and it’s why her mentorship is especially powerful for creative business owners.

Kristen’s mission is simple: make finance approachable—even if you’ve never felt “good with numbers.”

What makes Kristen’s mentorship different

Kristen doesn’t teach finance in a vacuum. She understands the reality of running a photography business:

• seasonal income swings
• unpredictable booking cycles
• big expenses (gear, education, studio overhead)
• emotional decisions around pricing and worth
• the mental load of doing all the things

Her guidance is technically sound and built for creative workflows—so you can make smart decisions without feeling buried in spreadsheets.

Kristen also created a program called Be Financially Fit, has spoken at ELEVATE (2023), and has led multiple NAPCP member discussions and a recent NAPCP Social (Members: Check out the replay on the video resources page!)—helping photographers take action in real-life, relatable ways.

Who this mentorship is perfect for:

1) Photographers who feel behind or overwhelmed financially

This is for you if you’ve ever thought:

• “I don’t even know where to start.”
• “I avoid looking at my numbers.”
• “I’m busy, but I’m not sure I’m profitable.”
• “Taxes stress me out every single year.”

Kristen helps you create clarity and a plan—without shame and without judgment.

2) Business owners who want consistent income (not roller-coaster months)

If your revenue feels unpredictable, Kristen can help you:

• understand your cash flow patterns
• build a realistic monthly plan
• prepare for slower seasons
• stop relying on last-minute bookings to “save” the month

3) Photographers who are ready to price with confidence

If you’re second-guessing your rates—or raising prices makes you anxious—this mentorship is a great fit.

You’ll work toward pricing that supports:

• your actual costs
• your time and capacity
• your income goals
• a sustainable schedule (not burnout)

4) Creatives who want to pay themselves (and stop guessing)

If you’re not sure how much to take home—or you’re constantly pulling from personal funds to cover business expenses—Kristen can help you build a cleaner system so you can:

• pay yourself consistently
• separate business and personal money more clearly
• make decisions based on data (not stress)

5) Established photographers who want long-term security

This mentorship isn’t only for “newer” photographers. If you’ve been in business for years but want to strengthen your foundation, Kristen can help you plan for:

• savings buffers and emergency funds
• major business investments
• retirement and long-term planning
• building a business that supports your life beyond the next busy season

What you’ll walk away with:

While every photographer’s needs differ, Kristen’s mentorship typically helps you build:

• Clarity: where your money is going (and why)
• Confidence: making informed decisions without panic
• A plan: simple steps you can actually follow
• Peace of mind: less dread around finances and taxes
• Sustainability: a business that supports your art and your future

Ready to feel financially fit in your photography business?

If you’re a creative business owner who wants finance to feel less intimidating—and a lot more empowering—Kristen’s mentorship was built for you. Click here to sign up for a mentorship today! (https://www.napcp.com/napcp-mentor-kristen-montgomery/)

This exclusive mentorship opportunity is only available to NAPCP Members and offers tailored support for photographers at any stage of business. Spots are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Want to see all of our available mentors?  Click here! 

✨ Guidance from an award-winning artist. Growth for your craft, your business, and your confidence. ✨