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  • Why Most Photography Businesses Fail (And How to Succeed!)

    Why Most Photography Businesses Fail (And How to Succeed!)

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    Starting a photography business is exciting, but here’s the harsh truth—most don’t last. In this episode, I break down the biggest mistakes photographers make that lead to burnout, inconsistent income, and ultimately, failure. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with practical strategies to avoid these pitfalls and build a sustainable, thriving business!

    📉 The #1 reason most photography businesses fail

    💰 Why undercharging is killing your profits
    📱 The marketing mistake that’s costing you clients
    🚀 How to prevent burnout and actually enjoy your business
    📈 The key to staying ahead in a competitive industry

    Check out my Newborn Photography Business Blueprint for the exact strategies that helped me grow a six-figure photography business—without burnout!

    👉 Listen now & take your business to the next level! 🚀

    ✹ What You’ll Learn:🎯 Ready to build a profitable and sustainable photography business?

    Say hi over on instagram https://www.instagram.com/mel_cieslik_photography/

  • Unlocking Email Success: Engage, Nurture, and Sell Without the Hustle

    Unlocking Email Success: Engage, Nurture, and Sell Without the Hustle

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    The Newborn photography Business Blueprint

    Last week, we dived into how to get your Instagram audience onto your email list. That’s a critical first step, but let me tell you – the magic doesn’t stop there. It’s what happens after they hit that subscribe button that truly determines if your email list will be a game-changer for your business.

    In today’s episode, I’m sharing my top 5 strategies to create an engaged and high-converting email list. These aren’t just fluffy tips – these are actionable steps I’ve used to grow my own six-figure photography business and sell my courses on autopilot.

    The first step to nurturing your email list is ensuring every email you send offers value.

    Think of it this way: every email should either inspire, educate, or entertain.

    How often are you emailing your list?

    Consistency is key. If you only pop into their inbox when you have something to sell, you’re missing out. Aim for a regular schedule – whether it’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly – so your audience knows when to expect you.

    The welcome sequence is your chance to roll out the red carpet for new subscribers.

    What to include: 1. A warm welcome introducing yourself and your brand story. 2. A “quick win” tip or freebie to provide immediate value. 3. A soft introduction to your paid offers (yes, it’s okay to plant the seed early!).

    Pro tip: Use the tone of your emails to make them feel like a personal conversation. This helps your audience connect with you on a deeper level.

    One-size-fits-all emails don’t cut it anymore. Your audience isn’t all at the same stage, so segmentation is the secret sauce to higher conversions.

    By tailoring your emails to their specific needs, you’ll see better engagement and more sales – it’s that simple!

    Sell Without Feeling Salesy

    Finally, let’s talk about how to sell through your emails in a way that feels authentic and natural.

    Use storytelling. Share a real-life example of how your product or service made a difference for someone. Include testimonials. These are powerful trust-builders. Make your offer clear and actionable. Don’t be afraid to include a strong call-to-action like, “Click here to book your spot” or “Enrol now to start your journey.”

    Remember, your audience wants solutions to their problems – so selling is really just an act of service.

    Don't forget ot subscribe so you never miss an episode.

    And follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mel_cieslik_photography/

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  • How To Convert Your Instagram Followers To Email Subscribers

    How To Convert Your Instagram Followers To Email Subscribers

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    The Newborn Photography Business Blueprint Membership is Open to Enrolments.

    Okay, let’s talk email lists. Why are they so important? For starters, emails land directly in someone’s inbox. No algorithm, no guessing games. And on average, each subscriber can bring you an extra dollar of revenue per month. Yep, $1 per email! So, imagine 1,000 engaged subscribers—that’s $1,000 a month in potential income. Not too shabby, right?

    Email lists are the foundation of a sustainable, profitable business. Whether you’re launching a new course, booking mini sessions, or promoting a freebie, your email list is your secret weapon. But here’s the golden question: How do we move people from Instagram to our email list without spending hours replying to DMs or chasing leads? That’s where automation comes in.

    The tool I swear by is Manychat. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s basically like having a personal assistant in your DMs. Someone comments or messages you with interest, and Manychat steps in to deliver your freebie, collect their email, and save you heaps of time. Let’s break it down into three easy steps.

    Create an Irresistible Freebie:

    Think about what your followers want. Maybe it’s a “PDF on how to prepare for a photoshoot” or a ‘What to wear guide’, ‘Or a VIP subscription so they are eligible to discounts and session releases before anyone else’ The key is making it something valuable enough for them to trade their email for it.

    Post with a Call-to-Action Keyword:

    Create a Reel or carousel post talking about your freebie or VIP list. Your caption should include something like, “Comment ‘VIP’ below, and I’ll DM you the link!” Once someone comments, Manychat automatically sends them a message asking for their email.

    Automate the Delivery:

    Manychat collects the email, syncs it with your email platform—like Mailchimp or Flodesk—and sends them the freebie. Meanwhile, you’re off doing your thing, knowing your list is growing on autopilot.

    When I first started using Manychat, it felt like magic. Instead of spending hours replying to DMs, I could focus on my shoots, my marketing, creating content and coaching photographers, knowing that my followers were getting the resources they needed. It’s been a total game-changer for my business.

    


    If you want to set this up, here’s how you can get started:

    Sign up for Manychat and connect it to your Instagram account. Build a simple automation: the first message invites people to grab your freebie. Add a “User Input” step to collect their email address. Integrate Manychat with your email platform. Set a keyword trigger—like “VIP”—and tie it to a specific post or Reel.

    Once it’s live, you can promote it again and again, tweaking the process as you learn what works best.

    Another way you can use Manychat is to use keywords

    Such as newborn or family

    What happens is ,anytime a client sends a DM for pricing and availability about either of these sessions, an auto reply will be sent that is specific to the topic. Instead of the generic one we have set up through instagram. To be honest, the generic one is quite irritating to a consumer. You’re better off not having an auto reply in my opinion.

    Or, if you choose to have a generic auto reply through instagram, my advice is to provide a link to book a call with you or a link to your enquiry form so that the potential customer is making progress with their enquiry and moving to the next stage in the process.

    Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss an episode.

    And follow me in instagram https://www.instagram.com/mel_cieslik_photography/

  • How To Make Consistent $10K Months As A Newborn Photographer

    How To Make Consistent $10K Months As A Newborn Photographer

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    Statistics show that Photographers who charge premium rates typically work 25-30% fewer hours than those offering lower rates (industry analysis).

    Here’s the thing, and I know so many of you feel this: You’re working SO hard. You’re shooting on weekends, editing till 1 a.m., answering emails on your phone while your kids ask for just five more minutes of your attention. And despite all that, you’re barely covering your costs. Maybe you’re stuck offering cheap mini sessions just to fill your calendar. Or you’ve had clients ghost you after countless back-and-forths. You feel like you’re running on a hamster wheel, but the finish line keeps moving.

    Sound familiar? Because I’ve been there. That’s exactly what I mean by the hustle without the reward. It’s exhausting, it’s unsustainable, and honestly, it’s not the path to $10K months.

    I’m going to break it all down for you. We’ll talk about the three pillars of consistent $10K months:

    Creating value-driven pricing that works. Attracting your ideal clients with intentional marketing. Streamlining your workflow to avoid burnout.

    And don’t worry, I’m not going to just throw buzzwords at you. I’ll share actionable tips and examples you can implement today. Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that success loves action.

    I want to share one last story with you. A few years ago, I had a client who booked a high-end newborn session. She told me afterward, “Mel, I didn’t just book you because of your photos—I booked you because you made me feel like I was in the best hands from the moment I inquired.”

    That’s the magic of confidence, friends. When you believe in your value, your clients will too. And when you combine confidence with strategy, that’s when the consistent $10K months happen.

    To follow me on instagram, click here

    The Newborn Photography Business Blueprint Membership.. here

  • Balancing Photography and Motherhood: Chaos, Cuddles, and Clicks

    Balancing Photography and Motherhood: Chaos, Cuddles, and Clicks

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    Check out the Newborn Photography Business Blueprint Membership.

    <<FREE MARKETING WEBINAR >>

    This Christmas was all about connection for us. We’ve had lazy beach mornings, a sprinkle of adventure, and those magical moments around the dinner table where we laughed until our cheeks hurt. I’ve loved being fully present as a mum, soaking in all the giggles and chaos that come with this time of year.

    But let me tell you, one of the best gifts I’ve given myself this Christmas is permission to take a break. My business is running on automation while I’m away, and it’s been a game-changer. I set up workflows to keep things ticking along, so I’ve been able to step back without that little voice in my head whispering, ‘You’re falling behind.’ Trust me, if you’ve never put your business on autopilot before a holiday, I highly recommend it—it’s like a gift to your future self!"

    So, how do you balance it all without completely losing your mind? Here’s what’s worked for me—and spoiler alert, it’s not perfect, but it helps!

    Set Boundaries That Work for You

    For me, mornings are dedicated to Poppy. It’s her time to hang out with me, whether we’re at the park or watching Bluey. I save client calls, editing, and admin for when she naps or after she goes to bed. Sure, it’s not a 9-to-5 schedule, but it’s our schedule, and that’s what matters.

    Involve Your Kids When You Can

    Poppy loves playing with my old camera. She’s convinced she’s a photographer too, and honestly, she’s not bad! Sometimes, I’ll let her ‘help’ during shoots—she’ll stand beside me holding her toy camera, and clients love it. Plus, it keeps her entertained.

    Embrace the Chaos

    One of my favourite photos ever was taken during a family shoot when Poppy was a bub. She crawled into the frame while I was photographing a couple. At first, I panicked, but then I realised it was a moment worth capturing. That’s the beauty of being a mum and a photographer—life doesn’t pause for perfect shots, and sometimes, the imperfections are the magic.

    Self-Care Isn’t Optional

    Here’s one I’m still working on: taking time for me. Whether it’s a quick walk, a solo coffee date, or just locking myself in the bathroom for five minutes of quiet, those moments matter. You can’t pour from an empty cup, right.

    At the end of the day, balancing photography and motherhood isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about finding a rhythm that works for you and embracing the beautiful, messy, hilarious moments along the way.

    And remember, you’re not alone in this. Whether you’re editing photos at midnight while your little one snores beside you, or sneaking in quick emails during nap time, you’re doing an amazing job. Don’t let anyone—including yourself—tell you otherwise.

    If you want to stay up to date with more useful content from me, please follow me on Instagram

  • Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Confidence Boosters That Work

    Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Confidence Boosters That Work

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    The Newborn Photography Membership

    Fear is an evolutionary mechanism designed to protect us. It triggers the "fight or flight" response, keeping us alert to dangers—both real and perceived. This aspect of fear is invaluable.

    Example: If you’re standing too close to the edge of a cliff, fear prompts you to step back, preventing harm. Insight: In this context, fear serves a constructive purpose, acting as an internal alarm system that helps us avoid risks and stay alive. So fear in a new business, or a small business where you make all the decisions.. and most of the time you’re just winging it, fear is incredibly common, especially in creative industries like photography where comparison is constant.

    Since the rise of social media we compare ourselves.. ALL THE TIME. Whether it be someone elses body, her hair, the house they live in, the amazing holidays they are going on. And so too we compare our photography work. Well, I want you to write this one down. ’Comparison is the thief of joy” This phrase encapsulates the idea that constantly measuring ourself against others can undermine our happiness. When we compare our achievements, possessions, or circumstances to those of others, it often leads to feelings of inadequacy or dissatisfaction So, stop!!!!!!

    CONFIDENCE BOOSTERS THAT WORK

    Celebrate Your Wins (Big and Small) Embrace Progress, Not Perfection Focus on the Value You Provide Take Action, Even When It’s Scary

    LONG-TERM MINDSET SHIFTS

    Reframe Failure as Growth:“Every mistake I’ve made has taught me something valuable—whether it’s about lighting, posing, or how to handle a tricky client. Failure isn’t the opposite of success; it’s part of the process.” Surround Yourself with Supportive People:“Find a community that lifts you up, whether it’s an online group or just a few photographer friends you can share wins and struggles with.”

    Imposter syndrome doesn’t disappear overnight, and honestly, it might never fully go away. But what matters is how you respond to it. You are good enough. You’re not an imposter—you’re a work in progress, and progress is powerful.

    So, my challenge to you this week is to celebrate one thing you’re proud of in your photography journey. Maybe it’s a session that went well, a new skill you’ve learned, or even the fact that you’re still showing up despite the doubts.

    As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Shoot me a message on Instagram, or join the conversation in our Facebook group. And if this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow photographer who might need a confidence boost today.

    Until next time, keep creating, keep growing, and remember—you’ve got this.”

  • The Art Of Capturing Pure Emotion In Your Subjects

    The Art Of Capturing Pure Emotion In Your Subjects

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    My gift to you Family Posing Prompt Cards

    Build Trust: Tips on how to make clients feel comfortable (e.g., icebreaker conversations, sharing your own stories).

    Use Prompts, Not Poses: For the most organic shots. When you pose a subject phisically, it can look staged, and awkward. And not to mention, extra work for you!

    Be Patient: The magic happens in the quiet moments—how to observe and wait.

    Create Movement: Encourage interaction (e.g., “walk hand-in-hand” or “spin your little one around”).

    Shoot Through the Moment: Advice on not stopping at the "perfect shot" but letting emotions naturally evolve.

    Register for the FREE Marketing Webinar

    Follow me on Instagram

  • The Worst Thing You Can Do To Repel Photography Clients. And How to Fix It.

    The Worst Thing You Can Do To Repel Photography Clients. And How to Fix It.

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    Check out the Newborn Photography Business Blueprint

    Let’s face it—keeping customers happy isn’t rocket science, but it does require some common sense. Unfortunately, we’ve all seen (or made!) these mistakes. Let’s break down the worst offenders and why they send customers running for the hills.

    1. Ignoring Inquiries – AKA “Ghosting Potential Clients”

    Picture this: a mum is scrolling through her phone at 2 a.m., desperately searching for a photographer who can capture her baby’s chubby cheeks before they disappear forever. She emails you in a frenzy of sleep-deprived hope... and hears nothing. Crickets. Days pass. By then, she’s moved on to someone else.

    👎 Why it’s bad:

    Ignoring inquiries screams, "I don’t care about your business," and nothing says “bye-bye referrals” faster. Even if you're overwhelmed, clients expect acknowledgment—stat.

    ✅ Fix it:

    Automate! Set up an auto-response email or social media message that confirms receipt and sets expectations for when you’ll follow up. For instance:

    "Hi there, thanks so much for reaching out! I’m so excited to chat about your upcoming session. You’ll hear back from me within 24 hours—hang tight!"

    In my Newborn Photography Business Blueprint, I share templates you can plug and play to streamline this process and never leave a client hanging again.

    2. Not Setting Clear Expectations – AKA “Over-Promise, Under-Deliver”

    Ah, the classic trap. You’re trying to win a client over, so you say yes to everything:

    "Yes, I’ll have your images ready in two days!"

    "Yes, I’ll make your living room look like a Vogue cover!"

    "Yes, I’ll Photoshop your toddler into smiling angelically, even though he cried the entire session!"

    👎 Why it’s bad:

    When you over-promise and can’t deliver, clients feel let down—even if what you do provide is amazing. Unmet expectations leave a sour taste.

    ✅ Fix it:

    Be honest about what’s achievable upfront. Instead of making big promises, frame your process positively:

    "Editing takes about two weeks because I like to perfect every image for you. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!"

    When expectations are realistic, clients are thrilled when you go above and beyond.

    3. Being Too Pushy With Upsells – AKA “Used Car Salesman Vibes”

    We’ve all been there. You just had a wonderful session, your client is on cloud nine, and then... bam! You hit them with a barrage of upsells they weren’t prepared for:

    “Do you want to add this $3,000 canvas package? How about a keepsake box? Oh, and there’s a digital download fee!”

    👎 Why it’s bad:

    High-pressure sales tactics turn a beautiful experience into a transaction. It can leave clients feeling icky and less likely to come back.

    ✅ Fix it:

    Upsell gently. Frame it as an opportunity, not an obligation:

    "If you’re interested, I have a gorgeous canvas option that would look amazing in your home. No pressure—let me know if you’d like to see some samples."

    In my Blueprint, I teach strategies for offering upgrades in a way that feels natural and gets clients excited, not overwhelmed.

    4. Delivering Low-Quality Experiences – AKA “Letting the Little Things Slide”

    From a clunky booking system to poorly edited photos, every touchpoint in your process matters. That one typo in your email? Clients notice. The awkward silence during a session? They feel it. Your attention to detail (or lack thereof) can make or break the experience.

    👎 Why it’s bad:

    Clients want to feel cared for every step of the way. If you seem disorganized or sloppy, it reflects poorly on your professionalism.

    ✅ Fix it:

    Streamline your workflow. Invest in tools to keep your bookings, invoices, and communication flawless. And during sessions, make the experience FUN! Crack a joke, play with the kids, and make it unforgettable. The better they feel, the better the photos—and the bigger your referral base.

    Be sure to connect with me on instagram or subscribe to this podcast so you never miss another one!

  • The Ultimate Photography Client Experience! That Keeps Customers Coming Back, and Telling Their Friends.

    The Ultimate Photography Client Experience! That Keeps Customers Coming Back, and Telling Their Friends.

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    The Newborn Photography Business Blueprint

    I am immensely proud of the ultimate client experience I have created over the years.

    I would 100% attribute my success to this unique formula.

    That, and pretty photos of course. But I believe the two go hand in hand. There is no point taking beautiful photos if you also treated your clients like trash!

    Automating the Client Journey: Email Sequences That Build Trust and Drive Sales .

    Consistent communication. Reducing manual tasks. Creating a professional and seamless experience from booking to post-session follow-up.

    I Love the royal treatment that my clients get in my sessions.Their baby is unique and special and shoudl be treated as such.

    I provide a full client wardrobe for mum and Bub.

    I do in person viewing, so my clients have a Live feed from the camera to view each and every photo in real time! This was initially for me to save time with proofing galleries. But it also keeps the client involved in the session, we can choose the photos and any print products together at the end of the shoot. and It maintains cash flow. No more following u0 on unpaid accounts. So I can get onto editing on the chosen photos and in order of my shoots.

    I used to get overwhelmed with creating client galleries because I didn’t want my clients to see the unedited photos. SO I would spend hours retouching a full gallery only for my client to choose 10 pics or so!!

    There had to be a better way! And this live viewing method is a game changer, and the clients love it.

    I can get their photos back to them sooner, and only edit what they choose!!!

    Session Follow-Up: Send an email thanking the client for their session, linking to a gallery (e.g., PicTime), and providing options for product purchases.

    Review Request: Automate an email a few days after the session asking for feedback and a review. Explain the importance of reviews in growing your photography business.

    Exclusive Limited-Time Product Sale: Eight weeks after the session, send an email through PicTime offering an exclusive sale on products like photo albums or framed prints. This adds urgency and keeps clients thinking about your service long after their initial session.

    Be sure to follow me on Instagram

    For 1:1 Coaching, Book a Discovery Call

  • Photographers, Pricing for Profit! The mistakes to avoid!

    Photographers, Pricing for Profit! The mistakes to avoid!

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    Free Pricing Calculator – Grab Your Freebie!

    To help you implement everything we’ve discussed, I’ve created a free pricing calculator that’s going to take the guesswork out of setting your rates. With this tool, you can input your business costs, your ideal salary, and the amount of work you want to take on, and it will calculate what you need to charge to hit those financial targets. It’s easy to use and will give you confidence in your pricing structure.

    Make sure to download it at the end of the episode through the link in the show notes. This tool is the first step toward taking control of your pricing and your profit!

    If you're stuck with marketing your services. Be sure to register for the FREE online training here.

    As always, I love to hear from you, so be sureto connect with me via instagram.

  • Finding clarity when it feels like your life is a mess!!!

    Finding clarity when it feels like your life is a mess!!!

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    Today we’re diving into something we’ve all experienced – those times when life feels like a total mess.

    You’re juggling so much as a mum, a business owner, and honestly, sometimes the motivation just isn’t there. It’s especially tough when we’re our own bosses, right?

    There are always so many things that have to get done – client enquiries, editing, shoots – and before you know it, you're caught up in a reactive cycle. You're putting out fires instead of moving your business forward proactively. But here’s the thing: if we want to build successful, thriving businesses, we need systems and strategies in place to help us work efficiently, even when we don’t feel motivated.

    So, how do you shift out of that reactive space and start moving forward with purpose?

    In this episode, I’m sharing my top tips and strategies for finding clarity, getting motivated when you can’t be bothered, and putting systems in place to help you succeed, even on the messy days. Let’s dive in!

    Here are my top tips:

    Start with a Brain Dump

    If your head is swirling with all the things you need to do, get it all out on paper. This clears the mental clutter and gives you a better sense of control.

    Create a Clear Daily Routine

    Having a predictable routine, even a flexible one, makes a huge difference. Outline the tasks that need to be done first thing in the day before anything else takes over.

    Batch Your Tasks

    Stop jumping from one thing to another. Focus on batching similar tasks – responding to enquiries all at once, editing in blocks, scheduling shoots back-to-back. This will save you heaps of time.

    Prioritise Proactive Over Reactive

    Make a list of tasks that help you move forward – like marketing, planning, and business development – and carve out time in your schedule before jumping into client work. It’s tough at first, but trust me, the results are worth it.

    Automate Where You Can

    Set up systems to handle the repetitive tasks in your business, like email templates or scheduling tools. That way, you can focus on the parts of your business that actually help it grow.

    Set Small, Achievable Goals

    Feeling overwhelmed often comes from trying to do too much at once. Break down your goals into bite-sized pieces, and celebrate your wins along the way. Every small step forward matters!

    In the end, it's all about creating habits and systems that allow your business to work even when you're not at your best. Stay tuned as I unpack these strategies in more detail and give you the tools to keep moving forward even when life feels like a mess!

    Looking for a 1:1 Photography Coach?

    Book a FREE Discovery Call with me!

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  • Set yourself up for an amazing year ahead!

    Set yourself up for an amazing year ahead!

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    Since I’m in Australia. Spring has now officially sprung. I’m feelin' good, got my pins out, the weather is beautiful and manageable.

    In today’s episode I'm all about giving your business the spring clean it needs. And going into the new year with a bang!! I don’t wait for Dec or Jan to start strong.. It all starts in Quarter 4 believe it or not!!!

    I don’t know about you, but there’s something about spring that just sparks motivation, right? It’s the time when we’re all about cleaning out the cupboards, deep cleaning the appliances, and maybe even tackling that junk in the shed that’s been piling up for who knows how long.

    But once the house is looking spick and span, I like to take some of that energy and focus on my business. You see, just like your home, your business can collect clutter—whether that’s digital clutter, unnecessary expenses, or even outdated goals. And when that happens, it’s easy to feel stuck, stagnant, or unclear about where you’re heading.

    Personally, I’ve noticed that when my office is messy or my business is full of clutter, I start to lose focus. The creativity stalls, the clarity fades, and everything just feels like it’s in limbo. So, today I want to share with you my top tips for spring cleaning your business and getting it ready for the year ahead, including a little financial check-in to make sure everything’s in tip-top shape.

    Just like we declutter our physical spaces, our digital spaces need a refresh too. Start by organising your emails, client files, and hard drives. Delete what you don’t need, archive important documents, and make sure your systems are easy to navigate. Trust me, when your digital space is clean, you’ll feel like you can breathe again—and it’ll make you so much more efficient.

    Now is the perfect time to assess whether the tools and software you’re using are still serving you. Are there programs you’re paying for that you don’t use? Is there a more streamlined system out there that could save you time or money? Take the time to review what’s working, what’s not, and make the necessary changes to improve your workflow.and, if you don’t know.. then what i did, was I ran a P&L in my accounting software. and saw all of my subscriptions

.

    A fresh season calls for a fresh look, right? Go through your website and update your portfolio, pricing, and any outdated information. This is also a great time to review your brand and see if it’s still aligned with your vision and your ideal clients. Your website is your digital storefront, so make sure it reflects the business you want to be known for.Is your brand cohesive across all social platforms too. This ensures you build a strong and recognisable presence

    No spring clean is complete without a good old financial check-in. Take some time to go over your expenses—are there any unnecessary costs you can cut? Look at your pricing as well. Does it still reflect the value you provide? If not, this could be the perfect opportunity to adjust your rates or create new packages that better suit your business goals.

    Finally, after you’ve decluttered, updated, and fine-tuned everything, it’s time to set some fresh goals.

    What do you want to achieve by the end of the year? Whether it’s booking more clients, launching a new kind of session, make sure your goals are clear, actionable, and aligned with where you want your business to go.

    I like to make SMART goals.S- specific

    M- measurable

    A- Actionable

    R- Relevant

    T- time sensitive

    Tip 1: Declutter Your Digital Space

    Tip 2: Review Your Business Tools & Systems

    Tip 3: Update Your Website & Portfolio

    Tip 4: Financial Spring Clean

    Tip 5: Set Clear Goals for the Year Ahead

    Get My Marketing FREEBIE!

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  • Mini Sessions: Increased Revenue at Holiday Time

    Mini Sessions: Increased Revenue at Holiday Time

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    In this episode of Diaries of a Mum-tographer, we’re diving into holiday mini sessions and how they can be a game-changer for your photography business. Learn proven strategies to plan, promote, and profit from mini sessions during the festive season.

    I’ll walk you through the key elements of crafting the perfect offer, tips for pricing your mini sessions, and how to create urgency to fill up your spots fast.

    Plus, I’ll share marketing tactics to reach your ideal clients and maximise your holiday bookings.

    Whether you’re a newborn photographer, family photographer, or portrait photographer, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you boost your bookings and bring home profit for the holidays.

    Need a little extra help? Grab my Marketing Freebie. The 5 Most Common Mistakes Photographers Make When Marketing Their Business

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  • Why People Aren't Booking!!

    Why People Aren't Booking!!

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    Are you struggling to turn inquiries into bookings?

    In this episode, we dive deep into the reasons why potential clients are shopping around and not committing—and more importantly, what you can do to change that!

    I’ll share the changes I’ve made in my own process to ensure better conversions, like how a simple lead form to thank you email (with a call-to-action to book a call!) can make all the difference.

    Learn why relying on pricing emails may actually be hurting your chances, how to stand out from the competition, and how building genuine connections leads to more bookings.

    Download the FREEBIE HERE . The Top 5 common Mistakes Photographers Make when Marketing Their Business.

    And, if you loved the show, I'd love it if you could leave me a review below!

    And follow me on instagram

  • How to Boost Revenue Without Doing More Shoots

    How to Boost Revenue Without Doing More Shoots

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    In this episode, we dive into smart strategies to increase your photography business revenue without adding extra shoots to your calendar.

    I share my top tips for maximising sales through platforms like Pic-Time and Pixieset, focusing on how to seamlessly sell prints and products from your existing galleries.

    Plus, we discuss the power of promoting gift vouchers, especially during the holiday season, to boost end-of-year income.

    Whether you're looking to offer more value to your clients or find creative ways to bring in more cash flow, this episode has you covered!

    For more in-depth strategies and marketing advice. be sure to have a look at my signature course The Newborn Photography Business Blueprint

    And as always, please connect on instagram @mel_cieslik_photography

  • Identifying Your Ideal Client.. More Importantly is How to Find and Connect with Them

    Identifying Your Ideal Client.. More Importantly is How to Find and Connect with Them

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    Defining Your Ideal Client

    To start building a successful newborn and family photography business, it’s crucial to understand who your ideal client is. This goes beyond general demographics; it’s about defining their personality, values, and lifestyle. Think about:

    Demographics: Age, gender, family size, location, income level. Psychographics: What do they care about? What are their hobbies, lifestyle, or goals? Are they eco-conscious, trendsetters, or traditional? Pain points: What problems do they need solving? For example, a first-time mum might feel overwhelmed and look for a photographer who makes the process easy and stress-free. Desires: What’s their ultimate dream? Are they looking for a photographer who will document their family milestones in a natural, candid way or someone who provides high-end, stylized portraits?

    By clearly defining these factors, you can visualize who your ideal client is and tailor your services to them.

    Example: For newborn photographers, you might be looking to connect with first-time parents in their 30s who value simplicity and professionalism and are willing to invest in premium, stress-free experiences.

    If you're after online learning or a photography business mentor who has seen it all. Be sure to visit my website

    For more useful tips and advice be sure to follow me on Instagram @mel_cieslik_photography

    Capture the Market - Marketing Course for Newborn and Family Photographers

  • How I Said Bye Bye to Overwhelm and Burnout for Good!

    How I Said Bye Bye to Overwhelm and Burnout for Good!

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    Feeling overwhelmed managing your business, being a mum, and balancing everything else? It's not uncommon at all. But it doesn't have to be that way!

    My Top Time-Saving Strategies: How I Said Bye Bye to Overwhelm.

    Key Points:

    Automating Client Communication: Batching Tasks: Leveraging AI for Efficiency: Outsourcing Non-Creative Tasks: Prioritising What Truly Matters:

    The key is to start with small changes and gradually build up your systems.

    The strategies I’ve implemented have allowed me to enjoy both my business and family life more than ever.

    If you're after online learning or a photography business mentor who has seen it all. Be sure to visit https://melcieslik.com.au/education/

    For more useful tips and advice be sure to follow me on Instagram @mel_cieslik_photography

    Check out the Newborn Photography Business Blueprint where I teach more strategies for automating and streamlining a photography business.

  • AI Shouldn't be scary! It's changed my business!

    AI Shouldn't be scary! It's changed my business!

    · Diaries Of A Mum-tographer - with Mel Cieslik

    WELCOME TO EPISODE 1!!!

    I want to guide you through the rocky road that is running a successful photography business along side Mum-life! How we get it all done, and avoid burnout!

    In this very first episode I walk through how I use AI, yes artificial intelligence to save me soooo much time. And at the end of the day, improve my profitability. It doesn't need to be scary, once you know how. You'll wish you started sooner.

    If you're after online learning or a newborn and family photography business mentor who has seen it all. Be sure to visit https://melcieslik.com.au/education/

    For more useful tips and advice be sure to follow me on Instagram @mel_cieslik_photography