E5: Kellie’s Non-Negotiable – Outsourcing & Hiring a VA (Part 1)

Outsourcing Like a Pro: The Business Non-Negotiable That Changed Everything

You know that feeling when your to-do list is a mile long, and somehow you still end up answering DMs at 11 PM? Yeah, me too.

Once upon a time, I thought I had to do it all—editing, emails, scheduling, marketing, bookkeeping (ugh), even keeping my Pinterest game alive. But let me tell you, trying to do everything yourself is the fastest way to burnout.

And if you’re serious about growing your business, you need to start outsourcing.

Why Outsourcing is a Non-Negotiable for My Business

Here’s the deal: Your business (and life) will run smoother, faster, and with way less stress if you stop hoarding tasks like a toddler who won’t share their toys.

When I finally started outsourcing like a pro, everything changed. I had more time, made more money, and stopped drowning in admin work.

Because here’s the truth: Just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should.

What I Outsource in My Photography Business

If you’re wondering where to start, here’s a breakdown of the tasks I no longer touch because outsourcing frees me up to do what actually matters—shooting, connecting with clients, and growing my business.

1. Editing & Culling

AI tools like Aftershoot & Imagen AI handle the bulk of my editing.
If I need a more customized touch, I send edits to an editor who matches my style (because spending hours tweaking skin tones? Hard pass).

2. Social Media Scheduling & Posting

My VA schedules posts on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.
They also engage with comments and DMs because keeping up with social media can be a full-time job.

3. Client Communication & Admin

Dubsado workflows handle invoices, contracts, and follow-ups.
My assistant answers basic client questions, saving me HOURS every week.

4. Marketing & Content Creation

Blog posts? Outsourced.
Pinterest strategy? Managed by a pro.
Email marketing? Automated as much as possible.

5. Video Editing & Podcast Editing

I record the content, but I am not about to spend 6 hours cutting clips. My video editor handles it all.

6. Bookkeeping & Financials

Because nothing is worse than tax season stress. A bookkeeper keeps everything organized, so I’m not scrambling when April rolls around.

7. Travel Planning & Logistics

My assistant books flights, hotels, and keeps track of shoot itineraries so I can focus on shooting, not stressing.

What a PA (Personal Assistant) Can Do For You

If hiring a full-time assistant sounds like a dream, let me tell you—it’s 1000% worth it.

Here’s what a PA (or VA) can take off your plate:
✅ Inbox Management: Filtering, responding, flagging high-priority emails.
✅ Scheduling: Sessions, meetings, travel bookings.
✅ Social Media: Engaging, answering DMs, posting.
✅ Errands & Personal Tasks: Ordering supplies, scheduling appointments.
✅ File Organization: Keeping your business organized and running smoothly.

Pro Tip: Even outsourcing just a few of these tasks can free up HOURS of your time.

The ROI of Outsourcing (AKA: It Pays for Itself!)

I get it—outsourcing feels like an expense. But in reality? It’s an investment.

Here’s why:
Instead of spending 5 hours editing, I can book another session (and make more $$$).
Instead of answering emails, I can market my business and attract new clients.
Instead of stressing over Instagram posts, I can focus on what actually grows my business.

Ask yourself:
✔️ Is this task something only I can do?
✔️ Will outsourcing this make me more profitable?
✔️ Will this free up time for higher-value work?

If the answer is YES—it’s time to delegate.

How to Start Outsourcing Without Overwhelm

If you’re ready to get some time back, here’s how to start:

1️⃣ Make a list of the tasks that drain you.
2️⃣ Start with ONE task (maybe editing or email management).
3️⃣ Find the right person—ask your network, hire a VA, or use an outsourcing platform.
4️⃣ Set clear expectations and use SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures).
5️⃣ Let go of perfection and trust the process.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve to Have Help

I used to think I had to do everything alone. But the biggest game-changer in my business wasn’t a new camera or a fancy workshop—it was realizing that I don’t have to do it all.

When you outsource, you free up your time to do what you love.
You stop being the bottleneck in your business.
And you actually enjoy running your business again.

So, tell me—what’s one thing you’re outsourcing this year? Drop a comment below or DM me on Instagram—I’d love to hear how you’re freeing up your time! 💥

🎧 Hit play and let’s get RAW.

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About Raw Edit

Hosted by Kellie Rochelle and Sarah Monson, two photographers who have been through all the highs and lows, this podcast is your safe space for honest conversations about what it actually takes to thrive in this industry.

Each week, we’re bringing you behind-the-scenes stories, industry insights, and hard-earned lessons—so you can skip the mistakes and fast-track your success!

🌐 Connect with Us:

Kellie Rochelle Photography

Website: ⁠https://kellierochelle.com/⁠
Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/kellierochellephotography/⁠
Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/kellierochellephotography/⁠

Sarah Monson Photography

Website:⁠ https://smonsonphotography.com/⁠
Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/sarahmonsonphotography/⁠
Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/SarahMonsonPhotography⁠

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