#538 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Mandy Wright, Esteban Gil, Nicole Begley, Rhea Whitney, and Michelle Harris down at Imaging USA about the art of marketing your photography business. You'll gain insights into building client relationships, valuing your work, and maintaining passion in your art.

THE BIG IDEAS

• Create Lasting Client Relationships: Investing in genuine connections with clients can drive word-of-mouth referrals, expanding your network organically.
• Self-Awareness Enhances Success: Understanding what truly aligns with your values and interests can prevent burnout and guide your career path effectively.
• Business Adaptability: Adapting your strategy to leverage free resources and tools like social media and online communities can accelerate your growth.
• Finding Joy Amid Chaos: Enjoyment and playfulness in your work ensure sustained passion, even amidst the pressures of turning your hobby into a business.

PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLAN

1. Build Client Relationships: Attend events or dinners if invited to show your investment in clients' special occasions. Ensure clear, timely communication, keeping your interactions positive and professional.
2. Develop Self-Awareness: Journal your thoughts about what feels right in your business to better align with your goals. Periodically reassess your service offerings to ensure satisfaction and fulfillment.
3. Leverage Free Resources: Utilize social media platforms to showcase your work and engage with potential clients. Join online photography communities for knowledge sharing and mentorship opportunities.
4. Embrace Creativity: Plan personal photography projects that excite and challenge your artistic boundaries. Explore new techniques or gear periodically to keep your skills dynamic and evolving.
5. Focus on Genuine Networking: Connect with fellow photographers for support, inspiration, and potential collaborations. Attend workshops and conferences to learn from seasoned professionals and grow your circle.

RESOURCES:
Visit Mandy Wright's Website - https://www.mandywrightphotography.com/
Visit Esteban Gil's Website - https://www.egilphoto.com/
Visit Nicole Begley's Website - https://hairofthedogacademy.com/
Visit Rhea Whitney's Website - https://rheawhitney.com/
Visit Michelle Harris' Website - https://mharrisstudios.com/

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!
https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#537 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Kelly Lawson, a passionate photographer who transitioned from the healthcare field to create a successful photography career. Kelly shares her journey, highlighting the allure of creativity and entrepreneurship that photography offers. She emphasizes the importance of mastering light and using minimal resources effectively to elevate your photography skills.

THE BIG IDEAS

• Explore Your Creative Outlet: Photography is a beautiful way to express creativity outside of your day job and discover new entrepreneurial opportunities.
• Find Joy in Small Wins: Each photographic success, no matter how small, builds confidence; cherish these moments to propel your learning.
• Appreciate the Power of Teaching: Sharing your knowledge with others is both rewarding and reinforces your own skills.
• Utilize One Light Source: Simplifying your lighting setup lets you focus on mastering the fundamentals and achieving clearer, crisper photos.

PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLAN

1. Experiment with Natural Light: Observe how natural light changes throughout the day. Use large windows or open shade outdoors for consistent lighting without harsh shadows.
2. Create a Simple Background: Purchase affordable foam core or cardstock to create a seamless background that enhances your product photos. Set up a small, clean photo area in your home with these materials.
3. Focus on a Single Subject: Start with a simple object like a coffee cup and explore different angles and lighting setups. Capture it from various perspectives to understand how angles influence perception.
4. Connect with Your Target Audience: Tailor your photos to captivate your intended audience by thinking about what excites them. Brainstorm visual elements that resonate with your audience's interests.
5. Rekindle Your Passion: Regularly revisit your initial motivations for taking up photography to reignite your passion. Reflect on your journey and acknowledge your growth.

RESOURCES:
Visit Kelly Lawson's Website - https://kellylawson.ca/
Follow Kelly Lawson on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kellyslawson/

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!
https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#536 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Sabrina Gebhardt, who unravels the significance of honing your artistic vision and emphasizes the power of authenticity in your portfolio. We explore her journey from picking up a camera after a break to running a successful photography business, uncovering strategies to building a compelling portfolio, dealing with imposter syndrome, and using model calls to fuel creativity.

THE BIG IDEAS

• Define Your Artistic Vision: Knowing your artistic take helps you create images that stand out and resonate with your audience.
• Embrace the Journey: Understand that portfolio building is an evolving process that grows and changes with your experiences.
• Attract and Repel: Curate your work to consistently reflect the type of clients you want to attract and deter those who aren't a good fit.
• The Power of Model Calls: Use model calls to experiment with new ideas and elevate your portfolio without client pressures.

PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLAN

1. Create a Vision Board: Use Pinterest to create a secret board with images that elicit a strong emotional response. Analyze the pinned images to identify common themes and styles that resonate with you.
2. Schedule Test Shoots: Organize model calls with specific criteria that align with your vision, including location, outfits, and subjects. Use these sessions to experiment with new techniques and refine your style without client pressure.
3. Regularly Update Your Portfolio: Set aside time each month to review and update your portfolio, ensuring it reflects your latest and best work. Remove any images that do not align with the type of photography you want to book.
4. Network within Your Niche: Join online communities or local groups focused on your photography niche to exchange ideas and get feedback. Attend niche-specific workshops or retreats to hone your skills and stay inspired.
5. Practice Selective Sharing: Only share photographs on social media and your website that truly reflect your artistic vision and desired clientele. Use captions, blogs, and behind-the-scenes content to narrate your creative process and vision, building a connection with your audience.

RESOURCES:
Visit Sabrina Gebhardt 's Website - https://sabrinagebhardt.com/
Follow Sabrina Gebhardt on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sabrinagebhardtphotography/

Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!
https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!