Episodi

  • 260 - Photographers, let’s talk about a common trap: thinking that taking better photos is the answer to getting more clients. On today’s episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, Heather Lahtinen joins me to discuss why focusing solely on improving your photography isn’t a marketing strategy—and how this flawed thinking could be holding you back from booking more clients and hitting your revenue goals.

    What to Listen For:

    Why better photos don’t guarantee more clients.Why many talented photographers still struggle to attract clients who pay well.How to shift your focus from perfecting your craft to actually booking clients.The most important action steps to take if you want to get more inquiries.How to build confidence in your pricing and attract clients willing to pay it.

    If you're ready to stop spinning your wheels by focusing only on your photography and want to learn how to truly market your business, this episode is for you! Remember, your photos alone won’t get you clients—it’s how you connect and communicate your value that will. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast, check out the resources below, and join us next week for more actionable strategies!

    Important Links:

    Listen to the Secrets of Success PodcastJoin us for Coach weekMaster the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog AcademyStop competing on price and reach $2,000+ sales with the Freedom Focus FormulaBook more clients with ElevateDive into commercial pet photography with the Commercial Pet Photography AcademyUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 259 - In this episode of the Freedom Focused Photography podcast, I sit down with the incredibly talented Rebecca Hunicutt from Rebecca Hunnicutt Photography to explore a topic that’s essential for every photographer—diversifying your income.

    Rebecca shares her unique journey from a pediatric nurse practitioner to a full-time photographer and educator, offering invaluable insights on how to create a sustainable and profitable photography business.

    Rebecca’s story is a testament to the power of passion and creativity, as she discusses how she built multiple income streams through school photography, family sessions, and teaching. We also dive deep into the art of color and composition, and how mastering these elements can set your work apart.

    Whether you’re looking to add new revenue streams, refine your photography style, or simply get inspired, this episode is packed with practical tips and thought-provoking discussions that you won’t want to miss.

    Here’s a sneak peek at what we’re covering:

    Diversifying Income Streams: Rebecca emphasizes the importance of diversifying your photography income by exploring different avenues like school photography, education, and family sessions, which helps create a stable and balanced revenue throughout the year.

    Finding Your Style: Rebecca shared her journey of discovering her photography style, highlighting the value of consistent practice and reflection to hone in on what truly resonates with you as an artist.

    Leveraging Seasonal Work: Rebecca discusses how she balances different photography niches throughout the year, such as focusing on school portraits in the fall and summer camps during the off-season, to maintain a consistent income.

    Starting Small and Scaling: Rebecca’s story illustrates how you can start with small projects, like photographing other expats or setting up a driveway pop-up for school photos, and gradually scale them into larger, more consistent revenue streams.

    Creativity Beyond the Camera: The conversation covers how creativity isn't just about taking pictures but also extends to how you design your business, from developing educational content to setting up new services.

    Overcoming Creative Blocks: Rebecca shares strategies for overcoming creative blocks, emphasizing experimentation and playing with different elements like color, location, and composition to reignite inspiration.

    Balancing Work and Family: The episode touches on the benefits of structuring your photography business around your personal life, such as working while the kids are at school and taking time off during summer, illustrating how photography can offer a flexible career path.

    Resources From This Episode:

    Rebecca Hunnicutt's Photography and Education WebsiteRebecca Hunnicutt PhotogUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
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  • 258 - In this episode of the Freedom Focused Photography Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome back Jeff Brown, The Photographer's Mentor, for an insightful conversation on how to elevate your photography business by harnessing the power of positivity, gratitude, and strategic visibility.

    Jeff shares his unique journey from military photographer to renowned photography mentor, along with practical tips for transforming your mindset and daily habits.

    We dive deep into the importance of curating your environment—both online and offline—to foster positivity, how to use gratitude as a powerful tool for personal and professional growth, and why visibility is key to establishing credibility in your industry.

    Jeff also shares his daily routines that keep him focused, energized, and on track to achieve his goals. Whether you're looking to boost your business, improve your mindset, or simply find new ways to stay motivated, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

    Here’s a sneak peek at what we’re covering:

    Embrace Positivity in Social Media: Jeff highlights the importance of curating your social media feed to eliminate negativity and focus on positive, inspiring content. This can drastically improve your mindset and productivity.

    The Power of Gratitude: Jeff explains how starting each day by writing down three things you're grateful for—focusing on a person, a possession, and an experience—can set a positive tone and energize your day.

    Visualization Techniques: Jeff discusses the importance of visualizing your ideal future in detail, writing it down as if it’s already happening, and listening to it regularly to reinforce your goals and ambitions.

    The Importance of Visibility: "Visibility is credibility." Jeff emphasizes that being consistently visible online, whether through social media or contributing to publications, builds credibility and opens doors to new opportunities.

    Anchoring New Habits: To build new habits, Jeff suggests attaching them to existing routines. For example, replacing your morning news with a gratitude practice while enjoying your coffee.

    Resources From This Episode:

    Jeff Brown's websiteGet Jeff Brown's books The Photographer's Mentor on Facebook The Photographers' Mentor on LinkedInThe Secrets to Business Success with Jeff BrownHair of the Dog Academy Freedom Focus FormulaElevate Coaching ProgramUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 256 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, we're diving into one of the most powerful tools in business: storytelling.

    If you’ve ever struggled to connect with your clients or wondered how to make your website work harder for you, this episode is a must-listen. I’m joined by Karen Bartos, a certified StoryBrand Guide, who’s here to help us unravel the secrets of crafting a compelling business narrative.

    We’ll explore how to position your clients as the heroes of their own stories, how to identify and solve their problems, and how to guide them to success using clear, actionable steps.

    Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your brand message, these insights could be the game-changer you’ve been looking for.

    Here's what you'll learn in this episode:

    Understanding the Power of Story: Discover why storytelling is crucial for connecting with potential clients and how it can transform your business messaging.

    Defining Your Client's Character: Find out how to identify what your clients really want and how to position them as the hero in your business story.

    Positioning Yourself as the Guide: Learn how to position yourself as the trusted guide in your client's journey, helping them achieve their goals through your services.

    Highlighting Success vs. Failure: Find out how to effectively communicate the stakes—what clients gain by working with you versus what they risk losing if they don’t.

    Real-Life Examples: Hear real-world applications of the StoryBrand framework, including how pet photographers can address the sensitive topic of capturing memories of pets that won’t be around forever.

    Resources From This Episode:

    Get a Free Website Audit from Karen (use the 'Book a Call' button!) Hair of the Dog Academy Freedom Focus FormulaElevate Coaching ProgramUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 256 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, join me as we welcome back Kerry Jordan. She bravely opens up about a major block that’s been affecting her work for decades - a feeling of being disingenuous selling luxury artwork to private clients and being particularly uncomfortable with the sales process around upselling products after the session.

    She knew that this was rooted in a belief of some kind - but after working with previous coaches, taking numerous classes, and trying what felt like everything - Heather Lahtinen gets to the heart of the issue in this 40 minute conversation.

    Do not miss this one. This episode is packed with insights, breakthroughs, and actionable advice that could transform the way you approach your business.

    What to listen for:

    The Major Belief Shift: Kerry uncovered a 40-year-old belief about money and luxury that was holding her back from fully embracing her portrait photography business.

    The "Outsider" Syndrome: Kerry realized she felt like an outsider when dealing with wealthy private clients, a feeling rooted in her childhood experiences with money.

    Shifting from Discomfort to Empowerment: By acknowledging and understanding her discomfort, Kerry found a way to embrace it and transform her approach to sales.

    Curiosity as a Tool: Kerry's commitment to curiosity allowed her to explore the deeper reasons behind her discomfort with selling to private clients, leading to significant breakthroughs.

    The Importance of Alignment: The episode highlights how feeling aligned with your work can make all the difference in your business success.

    Resources From This Episode:

    Kerry's website Commercial Pet Photography AcademyElevate Coaching ProgramHair of the Dog Academy Freedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 255 - If you’ve been feeling the weight of a slow season or just need a little boost in your business (and mindset), this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast is for you. I’ve got Johl Dunn back on the podcast, and we’re diving deep into some game-changing strategies that can help you navigate tough times, overcome stress, and shift your mindset to keep your creativity and business thriving. Trust me, this is one conversation you don’t want to miss!

    Here’s a sneak peek at what we’re covering:

    Navigating Tough Times: Are you feeling the pinch this year? Find out why some photographers are struggling while others are thriving, and what you can do to shift your situation.

    Overcoming Stress Cycles: Get insights into how stress can hijack your productivity and creativity, and how to reset your state to get back on track.

    The Power of Active Marketing: Passive marketing not delivering results? Joel Dunn explains why active marketing strategies are essential in today’s environment.

    How to Shift Your State: Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Learn simple actions you can take to move from stress to progress.

    Building Resilience: Find out how to strengthen your resilience against stress and anxiety with practical tips and mindset shifts.



    Connect with Johl

    The Mindset CoachFacebookLinkedInInstagam

    More Resources

    Hair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 254 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, your host Nicole Begley dives into the exciting world of high school senior photography with special guest Dan Frievalt from Frievalt Photography. Whether you’re interested in photographing high school seniors or not - this episode is still full of applicable tips for ANY genre!


    Dan shares his journey of niching down, the challenges of working in a seasonal market, and his strategies for telling each senior’s unique story through their photos. He also reveals his top marketing techniques, discusses the products that resonate most with seniors, and explains how to balance work and personal life during the busy season.


    This episode is packed with actionable takeaways that can benefit photographers of any genre, especially those looking to refine their approach or add a profitable new stream to their business. Tune in to learn how to elevate your senior photography game, attract more clients, and achieve higher sales with confidence.


    Here's what you'll learn in this episode:


    Overcoming Seasonal Challenges: Discover how Dan navigates the challenges of a short shooting season in Wisconsin, and how he maximizes his business during the limited months of good weather.


    Product Offerings and Pricing: Get insights into the popular products among high school seniors, such as albums and digital files, and learn how Dan structures his pricing to maximize profits.


    Marketing Strategies for Senior Photography: Explore Dan’s successful marketing techniques, including the use of influencers, ambassador programs, and the power of referrals.


    The Importance of Pre-Qualifying Clients: Understand the value of pre-qualifying clients to ensure they are the right fit for your business and to increase booking rates.


    Balancing Work and Personal Life: Hear how Dan structures his work schedule to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance, especially during the busy season.


    Resources From This Episode:

    Frievalt PhotographyDramatic Skies freebieElevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 253 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, we welcome Kerry Jordan from Fur and Fables Photography. Kerry shares her incredible journey of pivoting from private client photography to a thriving commercial pet photography business.

    Discover the challenges and rewards Kerry faced during this transition and gain valuable insights into the psychological barriers that often come with sales. Learn how she overcame these hurdles and found a niche that perfectly suited her strengths and passions.

    Kerry also discusses the importance of building a community around your photography, leveraging personal storytelling on social media, and overcoming limiting beliefs about money and value. Plus, get practical tips for aspiring commercial photographers on how to court potential clients and structure shoots differently for commercial success.

    Finally, explore the untapped potential of LinkedIn for pet photographers and how Kerry uses it to grow her business. Tune in to get inspired and take your photography business to the next level!

    Here's what you'll learn in this episode:

    Commercial Photography Pivot: Learn why Kerry decided to pivot from private clients to commercial pet photography and how it transformed her business.

    Sales Psychology: Dive into the discussion about the psychological barriers Kerry faced in upselling to private clients versus selling to commercial clients.

    Building a Community: Explore how Kerry successfully built an engaged community around her photography through social media and personal storytelling.

    Leveraging LinkedIn: Discover the potential of LinkedIn for pet photographers and commercial photography, and how Kerry uses it for her business.

    Advice for Aspiring Commercial Photographers: Get practical tips from Kerry on how to transition into commercial photography, including courting potential clients and structuring shoots differently.

    Resources From This Episode:

    Booking your first commercial clientKerry's websiteHair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 252 - In this final installment of our travel hacking series, we're diving into the art of redeeming points.

    Now that you've accumulated a collection of points and miles, it's time to learn how to use them to unlock unforgettable travel experiences. From booking long-haul flights in business class to scoring luxury hotel stays for free, this episode is packed with tips and strategies to help you maximize the value of your hard-earned points.

    Here's what you'll learn in this episode:

    Maximizing Your Miles: Learn how to make the most out of your accumulated points for travel, ensuring you get the best value for your redemptions.

    Understanding Redemption Rates: Learn how to determine if you're getting a good redemption rate, with benchmarks for evaluating point value.

    When to Purchase Points: Discover scenarios when it might make sense to purchase points to complete a redemption.

    When to Transfer Points: Learn when it’s best to transfer points directly to an airline versus booking through a credit card portal for maximum value.

    Advanced Redemption Strategies: Explore advanced strategies like using mileage upgrade awards and leveraging different airline alliances.

    Resources From This Episode:

    Nicole’s Travel Resources Join Rakuten for freeHair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 251 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography podcast! In this second episode of our three-part series on travel hacking, we're diving into the exciting world of earning points. If you love to travel and dream of doing so for free or at a significantly reduced cost, this episode is a must-listen. I'll be sharing my tried-and-true methods for maximizing points through credit card strategies, ensuring you get the most out of your everyday spending.

    Here's what you'll learn in this episode:

    Optimizing Earning: We’re breaking down the various ways to earn points and bonuses so you can maximize your earning without needing a plethora of credit cards (but once you get addicted to this habit you might want that plethora).

    Maximizing Points with Regular Expenses: Discover how to earn points from regular expenses like insurance premiums, utility bills, and even home renovations.

    Pros and Cons of Extra Fees: When it might be worth paying extra fees to use your credit card and when it might not be.

    Shopping Portals Explained: An introduction to shopping portals and how they can significantly boost your points earnings.

    Choosing the Right Credit Cards: A guide to selecting the right credit cards for your needs based on different ecosystems and your travel goals.

    Resources From This Episode:

    Nicole’s Travel Resources Join Rakuten for freeHair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 250 - Welcome to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast!

    In this special episode, we're kicking off a three-part series dedicated to one of the most exciting and requested topics: travel hacking.

    If you've ever dreamed of traveling for free or at a fraction of the cost, you're in the right place.

    Today, we'll explore how to leverage credit card points to maximize your travel rewards, whether you’re aiming for luxurious trips or frequent getaways on a budget.

    Tune in to discover the strategies that can make your travel dreams a reality, and how we have an advantage since we are running a business as well!

    Here's what you'll learn in this episode:

    Introduction to Travel Hacking: Learn what travel hacking is and how it can help you travel for free or at a significantly reduced cost.

    Choosing the Right Credit Cards: Tips on selecting the right credit cards based on your travel goals and spending habits.

    Security Benefits of Credit Cards: Why credit cards are more secure than debit cards for travel and everyday use.

    Annual Fees and Credit Scores: Discussion on whether annual fees are worth it and how opening new credit cards affects your credit score.

    Credit Card Travel Insurance: Real-life examples of how credit card travel insurance can save you money and hassle during unexpected travel issues.


    Resources From This Episode:

    Nicole’s Travel Resources Hair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 249 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, we’re jumping into our imaginary DeLorean and time traveling to share the ultimate 3-step success formula we wish we had known from the start!

    Join Heather and me as we reveal how making decisions, taking action, and trusting yourself can transform your photography business.

    We also share personal stories and insights on overcoming obstacles, learning from the past, and embracing the future with confidence.

    What To Listen For:

    Trust Yourself: Emphasize the importance of trusting yourself and your decisions, and how this mindset can transform your business.Past vs. Future Self: Reflect on what advice Nicole and Heather would give to their past selves and how to connect with their future selves for guidance.Intuition vs. Anxiety: Explore how to differentiate between intuition and anxiety when making business decisions.Dealing with Big Sales: Learn techniques on how to handle large sales discussions without feeling anxious or doubtful.3-Steps to Success: Highlight the mantra of making decisions, taking action, and trusting yourself as key to success.

    Resources From This Episode:

    Hair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 248 - In today's episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, I'm flexing my superpower – digging into a photographer's pricing and helping them make quick and easy changes that result in majorly elevated sales!

    Today, we're chatting with Michaela from BMac Photography in San Diego, who was running a very successful business with a $1,700 average sale. Most of her clients would purchase an album, but she was struggling to get them to purchase more.

    With one little shift, her first client after our chat purchased not only an album but also a wall piece, resulting in a $3,800+ sale!

    Tune in to hear how you can apply these simple yet powerful strategies to your own photography business.

    What to listen for:

    The Power of One Tweak: Hear how a single change in Michaela's pricing strategy more than doubled her next sale.

    Albums vs. Wall Art: Understand why albums were selling well for Michaela and why she aimed to increase wall art sales.

    Selling Techniques: Learn how to effectively promote both albums and wall art to clients.

    Pricing Structures: Gain insights into the pros and cons of a la carte pricing versus collections.

    Client Incentives: Discover the bonus strategy Nicole suggested to entice clients to purchase both albums and wall art.

    Connect with Michaela:

    Website: https://bmacpetphotography.com/Instagram: @bmacpetphotography Resources From This Episode:

    Hair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus Formula
    Unlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 247 - In today's episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, we're diving into the art of raising your prices in your portrait photography business without losing your clients.

    Whether you're just starting out with a low-cost all-inclusive model or you're already seeing high sales and aiming to break into an even more luxurious market, we’ve got you covered.

    Join us to explore the journey through different business levels, the importance of transitioning to product sales, and how to introduce signature products to elevate your offerings.

    What to listen for:

    The 4 Levels of Business: From low-cost, all-inclusive models to high-end boutique services - we’re breaking down all the options.Is it ok to be Low-Cost All-Inclusive: Feeling a little shade from the industry? Not here - although this pricing option is more a stepping stone and than a long-term strategy.Transitioning to Product Sales: How and why photographers should start introducing products into their offerings to build a sustainable business - meaning - a business that actually makes a profit!When you Need Signature Products: Once you get to level 3, this is critical!Navigating Pricing Increases: Want to raise your prices but not alienate your past clients? I’ve got you


    Resources From This Episode:

    Hair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 246 - In today’s Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, join Nicole Begley as she chats with financial expert Mel Abraham to break down the ins and outs of financial planning for creatives.

    In this episode, Mel demystifies the process of building your own "money machine"—a system designed to cultivate financial independence and long-term security.

    This conversation dives into why it's crucial for photographers and other creatives to start the habit of saving early, even if the amounts are small at first. Mel provides practical advice on how to manage money effectively, plan for the future, and use smart financial strategies to build wealth over time.

    Tune in to transform your financial fears into a foundation for freedom!


    What To Listen For:

    The Concept of a Money Machine: Learn what a money machine is and why every individual, especially entrepreneurs, needs one to ensure financial independence and security.

    Personal Finance Management: Strategies for photographers and creative professionals to manage their finances more effectively, focusing on investment and savings habits.

    Transition from Earning to Building Wealth: Mel explains the shift from relying solely on income from work to creating systems that generate enduring wealth.

    The Psychological Aspect of Money: Understanding the emotional relationship with money and how to make financial decisions that align with personal and professional goals.

    Long-term Financial Planning: How to approach financial planning with a long-term perspective, ensuring that decisions made today positively impact future financial stability.

    Resources From This Episode:

    Mel's Book - YourMoneyMachineBook.comMelAbraham.comMel's Instagram Mel's YouTube ChannelHair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 245 - Welcome back to the latest episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast!

    Ever had one of those moments where you think, “Is this actually happening?”.

    I had one of those moments early in my photography business that I’ll never forget.

    Picture this: I'm standing in the bank, clutching my first check for $105 and change, ready to open my shiny new business account.

    The minimum to open was $100, and I was ready to bootstrap my little business to profitability.

    That was until the bank employee went to deposit my check, showed his colleague the check and laughed. 😳

    Now, for some people, that might have been the end of the road.

    But for me? It was just the beginning.

    I walked out of that bank more determined than ever to make my business a success.

    Because, honestly, the thought of going back to a 9-to-5 was way more terrifying than any snickering bank teller.

    In the latest episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, I sit down with Heather Lahtinen, our resident mindset ninja, and we dive into the power of belief and perseverance. We share some of our own cringeworthy early business moments and how we used those experiences to fuel our drive.

    What To Listen For:

    Overcoming Early Doubts: Nicole shares her experience of being laughed at by a bank employee when she opened her business account with $105.

    Navigating Setbacks: Heather recounts her experience with veteran photographers who dismissed her ideas early in her career and how she overcame their negativity.

    The Importance of Belief: Heather and Nicole discuss the critical role of believing in your own success and how it can influence your business journey.

    The Belief Ladder: A detailed explanation of the belief ladder and how it can be used to gradually build confidence and achieve business goals.

    Actionable Takeaways: Practical advice and steps for listeners to implement self-coaching and belief-building strategies in their own lives and businesses.


    Resources From This Episode:

    Heather’s 2005-era BlogspotHair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus Formula
    Unlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 244 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast! I'm your host, Nicole Begley, and today we have a very special guest, Daniel Usenko, the creative force behind Pixellu, developers of my favorite album design software, Smart Albums.

    Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting to explore the possibility of adding albums to your services, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to not only streamline your workflow, but also potentially utilize albums in your marketing. Daniel will share how Smart Albums can transform the tedious task of album creation into a swift, enjoyable process, enhancing both your product offering and client experience. So, buckle up as we uncover the potential for offering gorgeous albums to your clients.

    WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:

    The Value of Print:

    Daniel discusses the importance of printed albums in today's digital age and how they can distinguish your services from others, providing a tangible product that clients treasure.

    Advice for Incorporating Albums into Your Business:

    Daniel gives practical advice on how photographers can seamlessly integrate album sales into their offerings, enhancing client satisfaction and boosting their bottom line.

    Improving Photographer Efficiency:

    Discover how Smart Albums can drastically reduce the time spent on album designs, enabling photographers to pre-design albums for sales sessions and increase their profitability.

    The Origins of Smart Albums:

    Daniel shares the journey from the early days of album design, which required days of work using Photoshop or InDesign, to the development of Smart Albums, which now allows photographers to design beautiful albums in less than 10 minutes.

    Utilizing Albums for Marketing:

    Explore innovative ways to use albums as a marketing tool, whether it’s showcasing your work at events or creating bespoke client albums that drive new business.

    Resources From This Episode:

    Ready to save 15% on your first year of SmartAlbums? Use the code: FREEDOMFOCUSWatch Nicole create photography albums FAST with SmartAlbumsHair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 243 - Welcome to this exciting episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast!

    Today, we're diving into a unique and impactful marketing strategy with our guest, Michaela Trujillo from BMAC Pet Photography in San Diego, CA. She’s masterfully combined art, community engagement, and philanthropy through her innovative Gallery Wall Contest - creating a powerful trifecta of collaboration.


    In our conversation, Michaela shares her journey from conceptualizing the idea to executing a successful gallery wall in a local pet store. She explains how this approach has significantly benefited her photography business, offering insights into the operational logistics, building strategic partnerships, and the lasting impact on client engagement compared to other marketing strategies.

    Tune in to learn how you can implement similar strategies in your business and foster meaningful connections within your community.

    What To Listen For:

    Unique Wall Art Contest: Michaela explains the what a gallery wall contest is and how it benefits her business.Trifecta Partners: The contest brings together the trifecta of marketing partners, your business, a for-profit business, and a local charity.Marketing Comparison: Michaela contrasts the effectiveness of this gallery wall contest with other marketing strategies she has used, noting the lasting impact and client engagement it offers.Building Relationships: Michaela built a relationship with the pet store owner by offering value first, which eventually led to mutual support and the launch of the contest.Operational Details: Discussion on the logistics of setting up the contest, from choosing the wall space and determining the size and number of prints to selecting the charity and managing the financial aspects.

    Resources From This Episode:

    Michaela’s Gallery Wall Contest blogGallery Wall How-To GuideBmac Pet Photography WebsiteHair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 242 - Welcome back to the latest episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast! In this session, we dive deep into some intriguing personal revelations with Heather, who unexpectedly found herself discussing ME with her business coach! 😳 Talk about our mind jumping to conclusions! Imagine what I was thinking when I found this out!

    In this episode, you’ll discover what I did to trigger her (sidenote, it might have something to do with my Monday boards). Plus, we tackle the ever-present habit of comparing ourselves to others, revealing the emotional challenges it brings and sharing tips to rise above it. Stay tuned as we delve into the importance of recognizing and embracing your "zone of genius," steering clear of the nagging 'Should Monster,' and learning to honor your unique path to success.

    What To Listen For:

    Heather's Unexpected Coaching Session: Discover why Heather felt the need to discuss ME with her coach!The Power of Assumptions: Explore how jumping to negative conclusions can shake up both our friendships and work relationships.Comparison and Self-Worth: Understand the deep-rooted tendencies of comparing ourselves to others and the emotional toll it can take, as well as strategies to overcome these feelings.Zone of Genius: We discuss staying true to one's "zone of genius." Listen for advice on focusing on what you excel at and letting go of the pressure to be good at everything.Dealing with the 'Should Monster': The internal pressure to conform to others' paths to success. Learn how to challenge these "should" thoughts and embrace your unique journey.

    Resources From This Episode:

    Hair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus Formula

    Connect with Heather

    Flourish AcademyFlourish Academy on FBFlourish Academy on IGUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.
  • 241 - Welcome to our final episode of The Offline Photographer! Throughout this series, we've explored the art of in-person marketing, empowering photographers to step away from screens and cultivate genuine, face-to-face connections in their local communities.

    By focusing on offline engagement, we've helped photographers find innovative ways to build relationships and grow their businesses.

    In this episode, host Heather Lahtinen and Laura Wombwell tackle the challenges of being an introverted photographer in an industry that thrives on social interaction.

    They also explore the mindset blocks surrounding discussions of money and pricing. Laura candidly shares her journey of overcoming these barriers, while Heather offers advice on reframing client interactions to be more about education and less about pressure.

    What To Listen For:

    Navigating Social Barriers as an Introvert: Laura Wombwell shares her journey of overcoming social challenges as an introverted photographer, highlighting the mental hurdles she faces while interacting with potential clients.

    Addressing Money Mindset Issues: The conversation touches on overcoming negative beliefs around discussing money, such as associating it with being "gross" or feeling like a "used car salesman."

    Reframing the Narrative: Heather encourages Laura to rethink her approach, emphasizing that providing people with information about her photography services is about educating, not pressuring.

    Imagining a Different Role: Laura introduces the idea of stepping into a more confident version of herself, using the concept of a "Super Laura" to connect more comfortably with potential clients.

    Bridging Conversations to Business: Laura discusses strategies for transitioning casual conversations into opportunities to share about her pet photography services.

    Connect with Heather

    Flourish AcademyFlourish Academy on FBFlourish Academy on IG


    Connect with Laura

    Laura Wombwell Photography Laura Wombwell Photography on IG Laura Wombwell Photography on FB

    Resources From This Episode:

    Hair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramFreedom Focus FormulaUnlock the Secrets to a Thriving Photography Business! Tune in now to our free, private podcast!

    Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

    JOIN THE PARTY:

    Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.