Episodi
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Welcome to Part 2 of this little mini-series on the podcast, where we’re talking about that nasty thing called burnout in your photography business.
I’m sharing 9 simple adjustments or shifts you can make in your business - some are mindset shifts but most are things you can tweak with how you run your business, to avoid burnout and overwhelm.
In the last episode, I gave some signs and symptoms of burnout, I talked about the dangers of comparison and the hustle culture we see everywhere… and I gave you some steps if you find yourself in a state of burnout.
I don’t think we talk about this enough, it’s almost like a taboo topic - because you can’t be TRULY vulnerable, you can’t appear to not have it all together all the time - and you have to do all these things to keep up appearances - but it can get to a point where you’re looking at everything you’re doing, everything you feel you have to do to be successful - and it’s just too much. And that’s the danger of hustle culture. So recognizing it and getting out of that cycle is the first step. I highly suggest going back and listening to episode 25 if you haven’t already.
But today i’m sharing how can you make your business more enjoyable, lessen the load, and like I always say - create a business you love.
Listen to the full episode for the 9 shifts you can make in your business that will help you work smarter, and avoid being overwhelmed in your business.
To enter the GIVEAWAY:All you have to do is leave a review of the show! Every month I’ll be selecting a new winner - prizes range from free resources or templates, gift cards, website or business audits, or even a personal 1:1 call with Stephanie!
A new winner is selected every month, so feel free to leave a review each month for more chances to win!
Make sure you take a screenshot of your review & send to me over on Instagram @thefearlessceo so I know where to send your prize to claim!
Links mentioned in the show:Marketing Guide for Photographers: Double Your Inquiries!
PLANOLY - The app that saves me 20+ hours a month!
Guide to Shoot In Manual to give you full control over the look of every image, every time.
Photography 101 Course - If you’re working on building your portfolio and struggling to get that consistency you want with how you’re shooting.
Why I LOVE Honeybook + a discount for you! - The CRM I couldn't run my business without! I no longer miss deadlines or steps in the client journey, I use it to automate and streamline the booking, onboarding, delivery and follow-up processes, just to name a few.
The exact Wedding Questionnaire I use, as well as other resources & goodies for photographers available in the shop.
AFTERSHOOT - How I reduced my wedding editing time from 5-6 FULL work days, down to just ONE day! For all other sessions, less than one hour to cull and edit!
Need something else? -
In this episode, I want to give you some encouragement, and maybe a bit of a warning about something I feel a lot of business owners can fall into without realizing…
And that’s a hustle culture. Glorifying long hours, and wearing “busy” like a badge of honor.
It might feel motivating to you at first, but I can tell you from experience, it can lead to burnout.
This doesn’t just affect your business. Burnout spills over to every part of your life and your relationships.
And my goal for you - is to build a thriving business, while also embracing balance in your life, and enjoying the journey.
That’s not always easy, but it can be very simple - when you learn what to look for and how to fix it! So let’s talk about how to recognize and avoid burnout.
Links mentioned in this episode:
PODCAST GIVEAWAY - All you have to do is leave a review of the show! Every month I’ll be selecting a new winner - prizes range from free resources or guides, gift card, website or business audits, or even a personal 1:1 call with Stephanie!
A new winner is selected every month, so feel free to leave a review each month for more chances to win!
Make sure you take a screenshot of your review & send to me over on Instagram @thefearlessceo so I know where to send your prize!
Marketing Guide for Photographers: Double Your Inquiries!
PLANOLY - The app that saves me 20+ hours a month!
Guide to Shoot In Manual to give you full control over the look of every image, every time.
Photography 101 Course - If you’re working on building your portfolio and struggling to get that consistency you want with how you’re shooting.
Why I LOVE Honeybook + a discount for you! - The CRM I couldn't run my business without! I no longer miss deadlines or steps in the client journey, I use it to automate and streamline the booking, onboarding, delivery and follow-up processes, just to name a few.
The exact Wedding Questionnaire I use, as well as other resources & goodies for photographers available in the shop.
AFTERSHOOT - How I reduced my wedding editing time from 5-6 FULL work days, down to just ONE day! For all other sessions, less than one hour to cull and edit!
Need something else?Leave a message for me with Speakpipe, ask your business questions and I'll answer with a podcast
Or if you have an urgent question, need help with an issue or tough situation and it can’t wait a few weeks for the next bonus podcast… book an absolutely FREE strategy call with Stephanie to talk about anything you need in your business.
Until next time, an awesome week, Friends!
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Episodi mancanti?
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Today I want to share one of the many factors that play a part in your business to get more inquiries… and i always say: not just MORE for the sake of being booked up and busy, but more of the right clients, that light you up, that see your value and are YOUR dream clients.
So I recently put a poll in my instagram stories… and so many photographers responded that they wanted to hear more about How to reach more of their ideal clients… but actually 83% of the number of people that responded said they also want to learn about WHO their ideal client actually is?
So that’s what we’re going to cover today - WHO is my ideal client, and HOW can I attract more of them?
Because if you don’t know who your ideal client is - it makes it impossible to reach them. You can’t be everything to everyone. And By trying to market to everyone, you’re actually reaching no one. And that is hurting your inquiries, it’s hurting your bookings… and if you do book sessions or weddings, maybe you’re finding that you’re frustrated by some of your clients, maybe they’re needy, they ask for discounts, they aren’t loyal to you by coming back for more sessions…
if you don’t know who your target client is… you’re wasting a lot of your time spinning your wheels trying to market a business with unclear goals and unclear target audience. So let’s get some clarity there - let’s figure out first WHO your ideal clients or your target audience is… and talk about the ways that you can reach THEM.
To enter the GIVEAWAY:
All you have to do is leave a review of the show! Every month I’ll be selecting a new winner - prizes range from free resources or guides, gift card, website or business audits, or even a personal 1:1 call with Stephanie!
A new winner is selected every month, so feel free to leave a review each month for more chances to win!
Make sure you take a screenshot of your review & send to me over on Instagram @thefearlessceo so I know where to send your prize!
Links mentioned in today's show:
FREE Guide for Photographers: Double Your Inquiries
Click HERE for more information on the Book More Clients course mentioned in this episode.
If you love the show, take a screenshot & share to your story, and tag @thefearlessceo So I can see which episodes you're loving!
Leave a message for me with Speakpipe, ask your business questions and I'll answer with a podcast
Why I LOVE Honeybook + a discount for you!
Until next time, an awesome week, Friends!
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Hi friends! In episode 19, I talked about how how you respond to initial inquiries, some do’s and don’ts - to INCREASE your booking rate, and REDUCE the amount of times you get ghosted - specifically in how you respond to initial inquiries… But let's go even further...
And I feel like I have a pretty strong response to inquiries. i’m happy with my booking rate… Especially if I get them on the phone or meet with them in-person…9 times out of 10, they book with me. but I still get ghosted!
But today i’m talking about how to reduce the number of times you get ghosted by potential clients, AFTER that initial inquiry… somewhere along the booking process… Maybe it’s after inquiring, after emailing back and forth, after establishing a relationship? even after meeting with them, or maybe they even stand you up for the meeting…
What the HECK? Why do people do this? And how can you stop it?
Here’s the truth: We can’t control what other people choose to do - so we’ll never be able to stop ghosting completely. BUT the good news, is that we can reduce how often it happens SO much, by just doing a few things… So I’ve got a few tips and some encouragement for you in this episode!
So take the opportunity now, to look back on the times you’ve been ghosted, at what point do you get ghosted? And take a look at, let’s say the last 5 times you’ve been ghosted, and make some notes.
If you like looking at the numbers like I do - maybe you look at how many inquiries you’ve gotten so far this month, or this quarter… How many initial inquiries, how many emailed you back, how many did you get on a phone call or in a meeting, how many booked, how many told you why they weren’t booking… and then at what point did those numbers go down? Where along the way did you get ghosted?
Now - Let’s talk about that… Let’s Do a sort of “audit” and figure out where the holes are, and how to fix them.
1 out of every 8 to 10 inquiries ghosting you is typical, even expected - but if you’re getting ghosted more than that, send me an email or a DM over on instagram and let’s take a look at your business together and figure out why!
Or take a look at the Book More Clients Course to look even deeper into ALL these things we talked about today and elevate these areas of your business, and even more! And that will help you reach your ideal client, get clarity in your marketing & create a strategy that actually works for you, get more inquiries, CONVERT more inquiries, and keep that revolving door of clients coming into your business month after month! That’s the entire purpose of the Book More Clients Course!
Click the links above to listen the the entire episode, or wherever you prefer to get your podcasts.
Subscribe now so you never miss an episode!
Links mentioned in today's show:
FREE Guide for Photographers: Double Your Inquiries
Click HERE for more information on the Book More Clients course mentioned in this episode.
If you love the show, take a screenshot & share to your story, and tag @thefearlessceo So I can see which episodes you're loving!
Leave a message for me with Speakpipe, ask your business questions and I'll answer with a podcast
Why I LOVE Honeybook + a discount for you!
If you want to see the program I use for my email marketing, as
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Let's dive into this topic of having a photography Niche: Should you Niche down, or not? And can having a photography niche potentially make you more money or not?
When you hear the word Niche, simply put it’s what you specialize in. It can be in what you shoot, and also how you shoot or edit, your ideal client, the value you provide - is all part of how you set yourself apart… Most of the time though, when we’re talking about a photography Niche - we’re referring to the type of work you do as a photographer. So while you could have a special way that you edit or how you pose clients that’s your Niche, for simplicity we’re just talking today on deciding WHAT you will shoot, and if narrowing down what subjects you photograph is the right decision for you in your business.
Just a disclaimer here, this is a topic right out of the Book More Clients signature coaching course, and I wanted to talk about it here - because it’s been a common topic recently with a coaching client, and with a couple of the students in the course… so I thought it would be helpful to create a podcast specifically about making the decision to niche down or not in your business.
Because there’s really not a simple answer - it’s very personal to you, your goals, even your personality… but I want to share a little more about what having a Niche or not having a Niche looks like, and give you a few Pros and Cons.
And I’m also going to share a little insight into what I decided for my own business, and how I was able to scale my business to 6 figures - which has a lot to do with the decisions I made around having a specific Niche OR not having a specific niche in my business.
Links mentioned in the show:
Free Guide for Photographers: Double Your Inquiries!
PLANOLY - The app that saves me 20+ hours a month!
Why I LOVE Honeybook + a discount for you! - The CRM I couldn't run my business without! I no longer miss deadlines or steps in the client journey, I use it to automate and streamline the booking, onboarding, delivery and follow-up processes, just to name a few.
AFTERSHOOT - How I reduced my wedding editing time from 5-6 FULL work days, down to just ONE day! For all other sessions, less than one hour to cull and edit!
Need something else?
Leave a message for me with Speakpipe, ask your business questions and I'll answer with a podcast
Or if you have an urgent question, need help with an issue or tough situation and it can’t wait a few weeks for the next bonus podcast… book an absolutely FREE strategy call with Stephanie to talk about anything you need in your business.
Until next time, an awesome week, Friends!
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As a solo-prenuer, I know how hard it is to need to increase your income during certain times of the year - or maybe you’re trying to hit a specific goal in your business, but we’re only one person… So today I’m sharing some creative, out-of-the-box ideas on how you can increase your income - without simply booking more clients.
Listen now to learn more about each of these, but here’s the condensed version:
Sell prints or albumsTeach a photography class Offer photography services to businesses Sell stock photographyLicense your imagesOffer photo editing or retouching services Sell digital products or templatesI hope you enjoyed this episode, I hope it got your wheels turning with some ideas to try out to increase your income beyond simply booking more clients.
If you’re looking for resources on how to book more clients, you’re in luck! I’ve got several other podcast episodes specifically for standing out in a competitive market and increasing your inquiries, booking more by how you respond to inquiries, and even more coming soon!
Links mentioned in the show:
Free Guide for Photographers: Double Your Inquiries!
PLANOLY - The app that saves me 20+ hours a month!
Why I LOVE Honeybook + a discount for you! - The CRM I couldn't run my business without! I no longer miss deadlines or steps in the client journey, I use it to automate and streamline the booking, onboarding, delivery and follow-up processes, just to name a few.
AFTERSHOOT - How I reduced my wedding editing time from 5-6 FULL work days, down to just ONE day! For all other sessions, less than one hour to cull and edit!
Need something else?
Leave a message for me with Speakpipe, ask your business questions and I'll answer with a podcast
Or if you have an urgent question, need help with an issue or tough situation and it can’t wait a few weeks for the next bonus podcast… book an absolutely FREE strategy call with Stephanie to talk about anything you need in your business.
Until next time, an awesome week, Friends!
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As a photographer, it’s not enough to simply have the technical skills and right equipment, or even creativity & talent. In a time where anyone has access to professional level cameras & gear - you need to be able to set yourself apart from the competition and stand out in a competitive market.
It’s so easy to look around and say, “the market is so saturated” “everyone thinks they’re a photographer” “I can’t seem to find clients”... while other photographers, the ones that are growing and seeing financial growth, see where they want to be and make a plan to get there, despite the competition.
Because here’s the thing… every market is saturated.
When you have a the right mindset and a plan to stand out, you won’t get discouraged by that - but you see the opportunity and the need to REALLY hone in on what makes you different, what makes you stand out from others in your market - and draw in the clients that are looking for YOU. … because people don’t JUST want someone that takes good photos. They want someone that GETS THEM, and someone they connect with, and someone that they trust.
So how do you stand out from the sea of photographers in your city?
HOW can you get seen online and offline - and stand out in a competitive market?
Standing out in a competitive, saturated market requires a combination of these 5 steps:
1. Understanding your photography style
2. Deciding to niche down or not
3. Creating a strong, cohesive brand
4. Building an impressive portfolio
5. Networking and marketing your business effectively
Now, you might be wondering… What if I've done ALL these things, and it feels like I'm still not getting seen online?
I would ask - have you done an audit of your social media platforms, website, and portfolio to make sure you’re attracting the RIGHT kind of clients that align with your brand message?
If so, we need to look into your marketing strategies - or in your sales skills. It’s usually with marketing that’s inconsistent, in most cases. Maybe you have an impressive portfolio - but your messaging on social platforms isn’t drawing people in. Either your strategies are inconsistent, you’re trying different things to see what works, and you’re not sticking with one strategy long enough to actually see results. Or your messaging isn’t clear - which doesn’t build trust with your audience.
Are you focusing on short-term when you need to put effort into long-term, so it doesn’t feel like you’re spinning your wheels to figure out how to book more clients every month?
If you want to dive even deeper into each of these topics, and get even more clarity on these - even specific ideas for marketing your business online and offline, getting in front of the right clients, getting more inquiries and booking more of the right clients, the Book More Clients course is just the thing.
Links mentioned in the show:
Free Guide for Photographers: Double Your Inquiries!
PLANOLY - The app that saves me 20+ hours a month!
Why I LOVE Honeybook + a discount for you! - The CRM I couldn't run my business without! I no longer miss deadlines or steps in the client journey, I use it to automate and streamline the booking, onboarding, delivery and follow-up processes, just to name a few.
AFTERSHOOT - How I reduced my wedding editing time from 5-6 FULL work days, down to just ONE day! For all other sessions,
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Hi friends! Today I have some really juicy tips for you in responding to inquiries to INCREASE your booking rate, and even reduce the amount of times you get ghosted!
If you think you have a pretty solid initial inquiry response - you might want to listen to this episode! Because I'm sharing the 5 things you should do (and a few things NOT to do) in your responses to those inquiries!
When responding to initial inquiries:
1. Respond Quickly!
2. Change the subject line - make it stand out!
3. And this was the biggest part of this episode today: Make a connection!
4. Keep the conversation going.
5. A clear “next step” or call to action.
Things NOT to include, or things to avoid:
1. Don’t simply answer their question. Don’t just send over pricing.
2. Don’t overwhelm them with information. Mirror how much they write.
3. DO NOT be negative.
4. Set boundaries, and only respond to email.
Remember:
Some things work some of the time. Nothing works ALL of the time.
But even if these tips get your closing rate up by 1 out of 10 inquiries, that’s 10%! That's something! And it’s definitely worth focusing on even more aspects of your business that could help improve those odds for you!
Links mentioned in the show:
Free Guide for Photographers: Double Your Inquiries!
PLANOLY - The app that saves me 20+ hours a month!
Why I LOVE Honeybook + a discount for you! - The CRM I couldn't run my business without! I no longer miss deadlines or steps in the client journey, I use it to automate and streamline the booking, onboarding, delivery and follow-up processes, just to name a few.
AFTERSHOOT - How I reduced my wedding editing time from 5-6 FULL work days, down to just ONE day! For all other sessions, less than one hour to cull and edit!
Need something else?
Leave a message for me with Speakpipe, ask your business questions and I'll answer with a podcast
Or if you have an urgent question, need help with an issue or tough situation and it can’t wait a few weeks for the next bonus podcast… book an absolutely FREE strategy call with Stephanie to talk about anything you need in your business.
Until next time, an awesome week, Friends!
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Recently, I was on a coaching call with a photographer, and she had a couple of questions that I thought would complement the last podcast episode PERFECTLY - when talking about setting specific income goals for your business.
In the last episode, I shared the process of reviewing your previous year, and setting goals and planning for the upcoming year. And doing it in a way that is more realistic and do-able, by figuring out how to map out your goals into smaller steps that you can take throughout the year. And In case you haven’t listened to that, after this episode I encourage you to go back and listen! It’s a good one! I even included a link to download the exact goal sheets I use in my business!
But In today’s episode, I want to talk about something more specific with setting your income goals and how that breaks down into your BOOKING goals in your business, and ESPECIALLY if you’re wanting to be able to replace your 9-5 income or day-job, and go full-time with your photography business!
I was on that call recently with a super talented photographer named Alyssa - and I’ll give you a little context on what we talked about, and the questions she asked that prompted this episode!
We first talked about ways to market her business and drive more traffic, and even how increase her booking rate….Because she’s an amazing photographer, and there’s no reason she shouldn’t have a full calendar.
But she works a 9-5 job and I can tell it’s starting to wear on her. And maybe you’re listening to this podcast, and you’re in that stage of your business too.
So I see you. I’ve been there. I know you’re frustrated that you’re not booking more, and it might be because you’re not able to spend the time marketing your business like you could be if you weren’t so busy! Because when you get off work from your day-job, come home and make dinner, clean up, maybe get the kids to bed… now you have a limited amount of time to work on your business and it feels like you’re in survival mode - barely getting enough done to keep your head above water.
It’s a catch-22.
You work a day-job, Then you come home and you’re already exhausted, but you still have to give 100% to to your photography clients!
That’s a tough spot to be in - knowing that you’re not spending the time marketing your business like you could be, because you’re working to bring home a steady paycheck - so the business actually isn’t growing like it could, and you’re not booking like you want to. It’s a frustrating cycle.
and I don’t have to tell you, That’s a lose-lose…-lose situation. In a job you resent because it keeps you from your dream business, then doubting your dream of having a business because it’s not growing - so you’re doing everything you know to try to make it happen, but in the meantime - you’re making hard sacrifices with your family or your personal life.
It’s enough to make you doubt your dream, and feel desperate to book more.but the first step to quit your 9-5 or your day job, is to figure out what goals you should be setting, as far as income and booking goals, - as in how many clients do you need to book to be at the “full time” level?
THEN you find a way to get there.
And the good news, is that in this podcast I’m going to share with you how to do both of those, in just 3 steps. And it sounds easy, right?
By now you know that I don’t sugar coat things, so i’m gonna tell you - it’s SIMPLE. But it’s not easy in any way. It’s actually a lot of hard work, a lot of time spent learning to do things better, faster, more efficient… stepping out of comfort zones and learning things you’ve never had to learn before…
Recap of this episode:
How can you figure out what your income goal needs to be, and How many sessions and weddings do you need to book, at what price, to reach
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Hi friends! Happy new year!
I am so grateful to be entering into another year in business, and i hope you’re just as excited for what’s ahead!
I love an excuse for a fresh start - whether it’s a new month, a new week… it gives me a chance to take a look at the way things HAVE been, and think about what I want them to be like in the future.
And a new year always gets me motivated and renews my excitement for my business, in looking ahead and planning for growth or change, things I want more of… or less of, and it always feels exciting to me to have a fresh start. I feel like it’s just full of possibilities.
But in looking at my business over the last 13 years… I’m VERY aware that setting goals and intentions, and taking the time to plan for the coming year is SO crucial.
So in today’s episode, I want to share with you my own process of reviewing the previous year’s successes and room for growth - and in setting goals and planning for the upcoming year.
I’ve also created a free download for you of the EXACT powersheets I use in my business.
There’s a lot of different ones out there, but i’ve found that this method & layout works best for me, and helps me visualize my goals and steps i need to take throughout the year, and what keeps me motivated all year!
- the link is in the show notes here, or you can go to https://thefearlessphotographer.com/blog/goals to download that!
STEP 1: Gather all your materials. Print out the powersheets, past year's records, financials, etc.
STEP 2: Review & Reflect on the previous year. Refer to those goal sheets for some prompts to reflect on.
STEP 3: Celebrate the past year's wins! Focus on the positives and celebrate those!
STEP 4: Look ahead, and set Intentions & Goals. Write out a clear picture of my goals for the year, I’ve looked back at the previous year and decided where I want for my life and business over this year, what tasks I want to accomplish, or what milestones I need to reach this year.
STEP 5: Map out your goals. After setting my yearly/monthly goals, I spend time in my calendar looking ahead and making a plan of what actions or steps I have to take each month or each week to reach those goals.
"A year from now, you'll wish you had started today."
Links mentioned in the show:
Free Guide for Photographers: Double Your Inquiries!
PLANOLY - The app that saves me 20+ hours a month!
Why I LOVE Honeybook + a discount for you! - The CRM I couldn't run my business without! I no longer miss deadlines or steps in the client journey, I use it to automate and streamline the booking, onboarding, delivery and follow-up processes, just to name a few.
AFTERSHOOT - How I reduced my wedding editing time from 5-6 FULL work days, down to just ONE day! For all other sessions, less than one hour to cull and edit!
Need something else?
Leave a message for me with Speakpipe, ask your business questions and I'll answer with a podcast
Or if you have an urgent question, need help with an issue or tough situation and it can’t wait a few weeks for the next bonus podcast…
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A business podcast where we take the guesswork out of creating a business and a life you love.
If you want a deep dive into what it takes to run a successful business, stand out in your market, book your dream clients, and enjoy the journey - you’re in the right place!
Here, you’ll find episodes that are encouraging, actionable, and practical - with a whole lot of real talk. We’ll chat about elevating your business, marketing, productivity, mindset, growth, balancing it all, and so much more!
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Hi friends! I'm so excited to share this episode today!
If you don't already know... There's a feature on my website called SpeakPipe, where you can submit a voice message and I'll answer with a podcast!
You can ask for advice or insight, or something you're currently struggling with or frustrated with in your business! Simply say your name & ask your question, or you can leave it anonymous!
It's like a free sample of a coaching session!
Go to the website, thefearlessphtographer.com and scroll down to the red button!
or simply click here: https://www.speakpipe.com/thefearlessphotographer
Alsyssa asked about the best camera and lenses for portraits & weddings, and when it's time to upgrade. She also asked for tips for shooting weddings, and how to book more clients!
One of the best pieces of advice I received as a new photographer; and I will 100% back up from my experience: Shoot with the equipment you have, until you feel absolutely LIMITED by it. Until you're looking at your photo quality and thinking, I KNOW i'm a better photographer than this...
If you want to hear more about when it's time to upgrade, steps you should take before making a large upgrade purchase, and what lenses are best for photographing different types of photos or sessions... listen to the full episode!
As for tips for photographing weddings, and how to book more clients - you'll have to listen to the episode for those nuggets of helpful tips!
In this episode I also talked about the Book More Clients course. You can find more information about that program here: https://blue-water-424.myflodesk.com/
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Hi friends! Welcome to today’s episode of The Fearless Photographer!
I want to talk about why some photographers seem to just take off with their business - quit their 9-5 and start charging premium rates fairly soon in their business… and maybe you’re wondering why some photographers struggle for years and can’t seem to get out of that “hobby” photographer stage…
What makes the difference? Is it luck, or do they just have a better understanding of certain things? And if you’re listening to this and you’re thinking YES - i feel that,
And I don’t want to make this episode seem like we’re comparing ourselves to others, because I think that’s a really dangerous mentality to fall into. And I do have a solution for when you find yourself falling into the comparison cycle or imposter syndrome… and that’ll be another episode topic for another day…
but today I want to talk more about why some photographers just seem to get it together as a business owner much sooner, and it takes some (like myself! I’ll admit that!) a few years to figure out how to run a business as a photographer.
And I want to give you the steps you can take, and things to focus on to get organized and on the right track with your business, even if you are a new photographer or you feel like it’s just not taking off for you.
So why are some photographers highly successful, and some just aren’t?
and this might surprise you - but I don’t think it’s entirely based on skill.
I think it has a lot to do with your mindset, and how you view your business and make decisions… and I think I can package it all up into 3 big reasons I think some photographers make good money and their business just takes off - and others struggle.
You must be a business owner first. Being a business owner means that you have to get to work. It means that you have to figure out things that you’ve never had to think about before. You have to take the right steps. There are a number of things that have to happen, and steps you have to take to set up your business the right way. You have to have the right mindset! Your mindset is how you think about yourself and your skill and your business, it’s how you feel about those things, and how you make decisions - so it impacts everything!What steps do you feel you need to take in your business, your work, your pricing, the value you offer, the systems & processes in your business, the client experience … to get things set up so that you can take steps toward that goal?
Everything I cover in the Book More Clients program is designed to give you the confidence and clarity to take the right steps and know the right things you should be doing to consistently book more of your dream clients, (by learning who they are, how to get in front of them and position yourself as the clear choice for them, how to convert them into clients, how to elevate the client experience, and create that steady stream of bookings that will sustain your business)
Click the links above to listen the the entire episode, or wherever you prefer to get your podcasts.
Subscribe now so you never miss an episode!
Click HERE for more information on the Book More Clients course mentioned in this episode.
Consider signing up for the fearless photographer newsletter - for business insight & strategies right to your inbox
And If you’re looking for a community of other photographers to connect with,
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Hi friends! I’m so excited to share this episode today!
If you don’t already know… There's a BRAND NEW feature on my website - called SpeakPipe - where you can submit a voice message and I'll answer with a podcast!
You can ask for advice or insight, or something you're currently struggling with or frustrated with in your business! Simply say your name & ask your question, or you can leave it anonymous!
I want to make sure the podcast is helpful to my listeners! And this is one way we can answer your burning questions without having to invest in a full coaching call.
It's like a free sample of a coaching session!
Go to the website, thefearlessphotographer.com - and just scroll down to the red button!
Or simply click here: https://www.speakpipe.com/thefearlessphotographer
Allison asked a question that I think is an awesome topic! And along the lines of booking more clients, but what if you are already an established photographer and move to a brand new city? What things can you focus on to get momentum and increase your clientele in a new area?
I’m giving you the 10 things you can start right away to drive traffic to your website for the new area you’re in! (and many of these aren't just for being in a new area, but also if you're a new photographer!)
I'm also sharing where to get the resources you need to start consistently booking more clients in your business - whether you're a new photographer or moving to a new area!
In this episode I also talked about the Book More Clients course. You can find more information about that program here: https://blue-water-424.myflodesk.com/
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If you’ve been listening to the show, you know that right now I’m giving insight, tips and topics specifically on how to attract & book more clients!
And today I’m sharing 5 things you can do now, to increase your leads and increase inquiries in your photography business.
But before we get started, i have a HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT to make… I’m currently enrolling in a brand new program called Book More Clients.
I’m sharing the 7 step framework to stand out in a competitive market, attract & book more clients, and consistently bring new clients into your business month after month, year after year… and end the feast or famine cycle.
So whether you’re brand new and trying to book your first clients, or you’ve been in business a few years and need to elevate your clientele and raise your prices…
- or maybe you’re in a slow season of booking and need a refresh on the things that actually drive results to reach the right clients and book more inquiries…
So if you’re interested or want to learn more about that course, keep listening to the podcast - or CLICK HERE!
As promised, in this episode I want to give you 5 ways to increase inquiries
And while the Book More Clients program will go even deeper into how you can start attracting more potential clients to your website that are already pre-qualified and ready to book with you in most cases, we also talk more in-depth about HOW to actually take those leads and increase your “closing rate” as well as create a steady stream of clients in your business…
So pick one, or try to implement even a few of these into your business this week to see an increase in your inquiries as soon as this week!
Use Word of Mouth and host a Giveaway just for previous clients! Establish a strong online presence & brand. Create a Marketing StrategyDo Free Shoots! (yes, you read that right.) Blog about your past sessions!To hear more about each of these, with some pointers and ideas for each one - listen to the full episode!
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Over the last 12+ years in business, I’ve always offered seasonal mini sessions as a way to grow my business or generate an influx in cash over a short period of time. ..
There’s so much more involved in this than simply putting an ad on facebook and watching the clients come to you! It just doesn’t happen like that, would it be great if it did?!
But let’s talk about how to strategically Grow your business with mini sessions! Whether you’re new to photography and throwing around the idea of hosting a themed or seasonal mini-session event or special - or even if you’ve tried to host mini-sessions in the past and either didn’t book all your available sessions, didn’t get the response you wanted, or if you felt frantic trying to advertise & hold the sessions - this episode is for you!
I want to share with you some practical tips and tactics I have learned from doing both themed and seasonal Mini-Sessions over the course of my business, and i promise I never hold back or fluff up my content for you. I’m a big believer in getting right to the point - just give me the content!
Listen to the episode now to dive in!
Now, it would take hours to give you all the information that I’ve learned in my business - but don’t worry! I’m going to cover as much as I can in our time, and if you listen to the end, you can find out how to get your hands on the FULL guide!
BUT i do want you to still listen to this episode - because I mention a few things and go a little deeper with some of the tips and tactics that I don’t necessarily cover as in-depth in the guide!
In addition to the information I included in the podcast, the full guide also includes:
- How to structure your sessions (how long should they be? what’s included?)
- Pricing your sessions
- Creating a sense of urgency
- Deciding on how many spots to offer
- Ways to MAXIMIZE your income
- Making the next step easy for your clients!
Download the full guide HERE.
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In my last episode I talked about failure and diving deep to really define what failure would mean for you in your business - as a way to motivate and drive you every day in your business. So i think it’s only fair now to also talk about success.
How do you know when you’ve gotten there, do you ever really “arrive” or do we ever get to a point where we’re safe from failure, and you’re considered a success? First off, let me just say - i don’t think that success is the opposite of failure.
I saw a quote a few weeks ago that stuck with me, it said “Failure isn’t final, and success isn’t linear” - and I truly believe that! That’s what actually got me thinking about success and failure, and talking about it a little more with the podcast.
And I don’t think you’re one or the other - there’s a lot of gray area, a lot of hustle and grind in between and all around success vs. failure… So in a way, you’re the only one that can say you’re successful, or that you’ve failed.
Just like last week, let’s first define success.
I used to think - if i had 25 weddings booked in a year, i would be successful. Or once I hit six figures, THEN I’ll feel like i’m successful.
But let me tell you - first of all - not everyone that SAYS they make six or seven figures in their business actually do. So you have to consider what’s real. And take that goal - that milestone - out of your definition of success. Because you can make six figures, but are you profitable? Are you paying yourself a better salary than your 9-5? Do you actually feel like you live your life and enjoy the lifestyle it provides? Or are you constantly working in your business instead of ON your business?
So let’s just take the dollar amount off the table. Take it out of the definition of successful.
“Success” to me, means that I have the lifestyle I love, I’m present with my family, and not stressed financially.
It means that I make enough to turn a decent profit to help financially with my family, while being fulfilled creatively, and serving my couples and clients the very best that I can. So who can put a dollar amount on that? Or who’s to say a full calendar is successful and only 10 weddings or 5 weddings is not?
In the last episode we talked about how you define failure. If I fail, I’ll have to go back to working in an office somewhere, with someone else dictating my schedule, my pay, my work. No freedom to travel, and not having enough time with my family.
Now that I have grown accustomed to the amount of time I get to spend with my boys - Failure would mean giving up the time I have with them. It would also mean a complete lifestyle change, because of the drop in my paycheck every month. It would mean I wouldn’t have time for my hobbies, or traveling to see family or new places, it would mean I would still have this innate NEED to create, but no time to do it. Those things are really important to me, so failure - to me, means giving up all of that. Giving up those things that inspire me and bring me joy currently.
Let’s look at it for a second as if failure vs. success is all there is. We’ll talk a little more about the grind in between those things, and the day to day hustle that comes with that another time… but for now, let’s talk like there’s ONLY the option of success or failure. I feel like thinking of it this way will help motivate you even more! In high school, it was required to take psychology. And it was one of my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE courses! I loved studying how the mind works, how people are wired, different case studies and theories of human nature. It’s so interesting to me.
My Dad used to say, when you understand a person’s underlying motives, their actions make complete sense. So instead of looking at the action, and saying - why did they do that? You have to look at their actions as a means...
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I heard a quote years ago that changed my entire approach to my business. it gave me the motivation i needed to do what had to be done, figure things out and not give up.
Want to hear that quote?
The way you view failure, and what that means for you - will determine how you show up in your business every day.So let's dive in deep here. Let's get really honest with ourselves. Because no amount of "fake it til you make it" can take the place of actually putting in the work and igniting that fire that keeps you going.
First of all, what does failure mean to you? and I'm not talking about the feel-good "oh failure is just a chance to learn" definition. and while yes, it is. I want you to take it even further.
WHAT would it mean if you failed at this? What would happen if you just couldn't make it work, if you had to delete your instagram, take down the website, it's not growing, let's close the doors and say goodbye. ?
What then? Listen now to hear the rest!It’s going to be a great episode, one I’m very excited and feel compelled to talk about right now, with so many photographers I’m mentoring that are feeling this uncertainty or at this crossroads in their business.
Click the links above to listen the the entire episode, or wherever you prefer to get your podcasts.Consider subscribing so you never miss an episode! And follow over on Instagram for daily nuggets of business strategy and encouragement along your journey. (If you would post a screenshot of the episode while you listen - Tag @thefearlessphotographer_ so that I can follow you back, watch you grow and encourage you along the way!)
In this episode I also mentioned:Is a Business Coach the right step for you? Why I LOVE Honeybook + a discount for you!Until next time, Have a great week!
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How do you know if raising your prices is the right step to make in your business?
Well, the good news - if this is something you’ve been wondering lately - you probably are ready!
SO many photographers struggle with this - and there’s two sides to it. Maybe you’re not sure that what you PROVIDE is valuable enough to charge what you want… or maybe you KNOW your value is there, but how and when and by how much should you raise your prices, should you tell everyone before you do - as a marketing strategy or just a warning to your clientele?
Let’s talk about that in today's episode! and I’m also sharing with you how I have personally approached this in my own photography business over the last 12 years.
As promised, Here are FIVE different scenarios that will tell you if it’s time to raise your prices!
If it’s been more than a year since your last price increase.If you’re drowning in work. If you need to keep up with the market or simply make more money.If your current clientele is no longer your ideal client. If your “Cost of Doing Business” has increased.https://www.thefearlessphotographer.com/blog/shouldiraisemyprices
If you enjoyed this episode, would you share it with a friend?
We’re all trying to grow or build a business we love, get paid to follow our passions, and provide value for our clients, and I bet they’d love to hear they’re not alone! So go ahead and share with a friend you think needs to hear this, or that you want to encourage to build a life and business they love as well!
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You didn't start your business to be overwhelmed, overworked, underpaid, stretched thin, defending your dreams to everyone including yourself at times, with your family resenting the time you're spending at the computer or working. You didn't become your own boss to miss out on friends' weddings while you go shoot another wedding, or miss out on memories with your own family while you capture memories for others.
NO! We started our business because we wanted to set our own hours, we wanted to be present with our families while contributing financially and being fulfilled creatively... To have the freedom to set our own schedule and not feel that pressure of working a 9-5 - because we wanted to have the flexibility to travel when and where we wanted, to chaperone our kids' field trips, to go meet friends for lunch in the middle of the week, but mainly to be present with our families and still have that creative outlet where we feel fulfilled.
But for whatever reason you started your business - If you're listening to this podcast, I know you're looking for ways to make this business easier to manage, you're wanting to grow your business, but maybe you're only one person...
If you’re struggling to keep up with the daily tasks in your business, and feel like you do so many things just to stay caught up or keep clients happy, if you feel like you’re constantly just putting out fires, forgetting steps or missing deadlines (or stressing and pulling an all-nighter to deliver a wedding gallery when you said you would) … I’ve been there!
I’ve had tear-filled conversations with my husband about the amount of stress and the amount of work still to be done, and he resented the business because of the amount of time it took me away from our family.
Here are the 6 things that I learned throughout the years, that have been GAME CHANGERS for my productivity, and helped me get organized, get more done and get my life back:
Get your workspace functional, organized & inspiring. Find your “Flow State.” Set office hours. Evaluate your to-do list. Streamline or automate your processes.Prioritize your values.If you don’t change the way you do things - nothing will ever change for you. You’ll continue to be overwhelmed, worn thin, missing out on time with your family. Decide today to use these 5 things to structure your day to be more productive, and start to shape your business into something you LOVE, rather than feel overwhelmed by.
Consider subscribing so you never miss an episode! And follow over on Instagram for daily nuggets of business strategy and encouragement along your journey. (If you would post a screenshot of the episode while you listen - Tag @thefearlessphotographer_ so that I can follow you back, watch you grow and encourage you along the way!)
In this episode I also mentioned:
Why I LOVE Honeybook + a discount for you!
Is a Mentoring Session right for you?
Until next time, Have a great week!
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