Episodes
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I had so much fun talking with Javon Longieliere. From the moment we started, it felt like I was chatting with an old friend. We laughed, shared stories from our careers, and explored something I'm passionate about—creating photography experiences that are just as meaningful as the finished portraits. Javon reminded me that our greatest gift as photographers isn't just taking beautiful pictures; it's helping people feel seen, comfortable, and connected. Those are the moments that become family legacies. We also talked about how building genuine relationships with our clients not only changes their experience but also creates a more rewarding and profitable business.
In This Episode
Creating unforgettable client experiencesBuilding trust through connectionCapturing genuine emotionWhy in-person reveals matterCreating photographs that become family legaciesAbout My Guest
Javon Longieliere is an award-winning portrait photographer from Valdosta, Georgia, and a Master Photographer, Master Wedding Photographer, Photographic Craftsman, and Certified Professional Photographer (CPP). He is known for creating meaningful client experiences that result in authentic, story-filled portraits and lasting relationships.
Connect with Javon
Website: https://www.longieliere.com
Free Gift: Getting Started with the Santa Experience
https://www.longieliere.com/luci
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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This conversation with Zoe Martin touched my heart in such a deep way. Zoe is the founder of Moments by Zoe Martin, where she creates luxury legacy storytelling experiences that preserve not just faces, but voices, stories, and emotional inheritance for generations to come.
After losing her sister to breast cancer, Zoe was inspired to turn her grief into something meaningful—helping families capture the people and stories they never want to lose. This episode is a beautiful reminder that legacy isn’t just about what we leave behind… It’s about what we share right now.
In this episode, we talk about:
How Zoe combines family portraits, video storytelling, and oral histories to create lasting family treasuresWhy recording voices, stories, and everyday moments can be even more powerful than photographs aloneThe importance of multi-generational portraits and preserving emotional inheritance before it’s too lateHow Zoe has built a meaningful business through nonprofit partnerships, senior communities, and legacy experiencesThis one really made me think about my own family memories—the voices, the laughter, the stories I’m so grateful I still have. It’s such a good reminder that documenting our lives isn’t something to put off for “someday.”
Because someday has a way of showing up faster than we think.
Zoe is offering a special gift to my listeners…The Emotional Inheritance Starter Kit
https://www.thezoemartin.com/starter-kit-emotional-inheritance
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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Missing episodes?
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Some people come into your lives and change everything. Today's episode is a conversation with one of the most inspiring and magnetic people I have been lucky enough to know. She was my coach, mentor, friend, guest, and client. She passed away last week, and I hope that revisiting this conversation will inspire you as much as she inspired everyone who knew her.
About this interview...
I think it’s safe to say that at some point we’ve all felt a little bit stuck…in our comfort zones, in our photography businesses, and in our lives. I know that I have. The person that helped me get over that “stuck” feeling? This week’s The Profitable Photographer Podcast guest and my long-time coach and friend, Ursula Mentjes. I couldn’t be more excited for you to meet her!
Ursula is a leading expert on success and business growth and a USA Today bestselling author of UpLevel NOW. She is a business strategist and coach who works with entrepreneurs ( like me!) to double their monthly revenue in as little as 30 days while working less. Ursula is also a keynote speaker and certified as an NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) Coach through the NLP Institute of California. She specializes in helping her clients release the limiting beliefs and blocks that hold them back from their greatest success.
As self-employed business owners, it’s easy to stay stuck in our comfort zone. But staying where we are will never allow us to reach the goals we truly desire. Today, Ursula is here to teach us how to break through to the next level and get unstuck!
Listen in as the life-changing, entertaining Ursula shares with us:
· How to change limiting beliefs
· Steps to double your sales
· How to get unstuck and leave your comfort zone
Ursula’s final takeaway for us? It’s not too late to build the business of your dreams.
If you want to learn more from Ursula, you can still find her books and podcast on her website
Website: https://www.ursulainc.co/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MySalesCoachNowConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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Sooooo….I have often called The Baby Whisperer OR Every Kids’ Aunt Luci. I happen to be and an award-winning Master Craftsman photographer, but my favorite award (or reward) is capturing the delight a child brings in a photograph and sharing with my clients
After 10 years photographing weddings, I pivoted to my first love, children. For the next 20 plus years I photographed newborns, toddlers, children and families. People would comment about how patient I am and yes, it is true. But I also have learned and invented many many ways to make photographing them easy and fun. Ways to bring out natural expressions and poses. Ways to plan a session for the most success.
And I am sharing not just 10 tips and tricks, but the different stages of childhood and the 8 basic needs and how to address them to get the most out of our time with the wee ones.
In this episode, I share:
My 10 hot tips for photographing children with more ease and confidenceHow to adapt your approach for newborns, toddlers, preschoolers, and teensCreative ways to connect with little ones (without relying on bribery)The importance of reading the room — and meeting children where they areWhy your own energy, preparation, and mindset are just as important as your camera settingsWhether you’re brand new to photographing children or have been doing it for years, this episode is packed with practical advice, mindset shifts, and tried-and-true techniques to help you create portraits families will treasure forever.
Thanks for listening, and if you found this helpful, I’d love for you to subscribe and share it with your photography friends.
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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What a fun conversation I had with my friend Rachel Sorbet! Rachel specializes in branding and executive portraits for businesswomen, and she shared so many gems about creating a successful photography business that feels authentic and rewarding.
I have watched her go from “imposter syndrome” to a super-successful Boss Babe (aka a very successful photographer) in just 8 years.
We chatted about the power of positive thinking and believing that if you have a dream, you really can build it. Rachel shares how she attracts clients, revealing that most of her bookings come from Google Ads, combined with consistently showing up through networking and social media.
We also dive into one of my favorite topics—building relationships. Rachel explains her strategy for creating "channel partners," businesses that actively support and refer one another. She shares how simple connections, clear expectations, and genuine relationships over coffee can grow into a steady stream of ideal clients.
In this episode, you'll hear about:
The power of mindset and believing in your dreams.How Rachel gets 90% of her branding clients through Google Ads.The difference between referral partners and channel partners.How to recognize the super-networkers who can help grow your business.Why authentic relationships are still one of the best marketing strategies.I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. Thanks so much for listening and for sharing The Profitable Photographer with your photography friends!
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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My conversation with family photographer and business coach Jill C. Smith is a deep dive into pricing, marketing, client experience, and building a photography business that fits your life.
If you know me at all, you know how I am always on my soapbox about selling printed wall art and albums. So you might be surprised by our conversation about why Jill is a huge fan of selling digital files only. She opened my eyes to the reality that this can be highly profitable when done correctly. And she helped me understand why it is perfect for some people as long as it is financially rewarding and fits their lifestyle.
About My Guest
Jill went from teaching English to refugees to creating a successful photography business in New York's Catskills 12 years ago. Her style is a blend of lifestyle and documentary - focusing on all things warm, honest, and connected. Jill is also a coach and mentor to other photographers, with her main areas of focus being on pricing, marketing, and client experience
And she hosts The Business Focused Photographer podcast. Be sure to listen for the episode where I am her guest.
In This Episode, we explore
The difference between lifestyle and documentary photographyWhy pricing is often a mindset challengeCreative ways to market your photography businessHow to identify and attract your ideal clientsFree Gift
Get Jill's profitability worksheet at: TheBusinessFocusedPhotographer.com/profitable
Thanks for subscribing and sharing my podcast and YouTube channel with your photo friends!
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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This episode is such an encouraging conversation about photography, money, and building a life that actually feels good. I sat down with photographer and business coach Mycah Bain to talk about financial freedom, mindset shifts, creating wealth without guilt, and why getting support in your business can completely change your life.
Mycah shares how she grew her photography business into a multi-six-figure studio with a team of 10 women, all while creating more freedom, more peace, and more opportunity for herself and others. We also dive into money blocks, gratitude, investing, retirement, generosity, and the importance of women feeling empowered to build real wealth.
This conversation felt equal parts practical, inspiring, and deeply honest.
In This Episode
Why women deserve to build wealth and financial freedomThe mindset shifts that helped Mycah grow her businessHow hiring help creates more peace, energy, and profitMoney blocks photographers often struggle withGratitude practices that can change your relationship with moneySimple ways to start planning for long-term financial freedomWhy generosity and wealth can beautifully coexistFree Gift
Mycah created a free money mindset resource for photographers:
mycahbain.com/money
She’s also offering complimentary one-on-one chats for a limited number of listeners. Email her and mention Luci. [email protected]
Memorable Takeaway
“One moment of gratitude can completely shift your relationship with money.”
This episode is a beautiful reminder that money doesn’t have to feel scary, selfish, or overwhelming. It can be a tool for freedom, generosity, creativity, and building the life you truly want.
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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Have you ever donated a photo session to a charity event… and wondered if it was actually worth it?
If you want to know how to get booked solid without competing in the online world, you will want to listen and take notes. Today, I’m sharing how I used charity auctions and giveaways to attract ideal clients who invest well and helped my photography business thrive—without discounting my value or feeling salesy. All while supporting causes I truly care about.
Back during the 2009–2010 recession, this approach helped me stay visible, attract ideal clients, and generate thousands of dollars in business. I’m breaking down exactly what worked, what didn’t, and how to make charity marketing feel intentional instead of exhausting.
This episode is full of practical ideas, mindset shifts, and little details that can make a huge difference if you want charity events to actually support your business instead of draining it.
In This Episode
• How I used charity events to attract ideal portrait clients
• Why the right event matters more than doing lots of events
• My strategy for gift certificates, refundable deposits, and pre-qualifying clients
• Simple display ideas that make your booth or auction table look high-end
• Why every charity client deserves the same amazing experience as a full-paying client
A Few Big Takeaways
• Charity marketing works best when your ideal clients are already attending the event
• A beautiful presentation and strong branding matter more than giving away “more stuff”
• Sometimes one great charity partnership is worth more than ten random events
• The goal isn’t just exposure — it’s connection, trust, and creating future clients
Memorable Reminder
Supporting a cause and building a profitable business do not have to be opposites. When done thoughtfully, charity events can create genuine relationships, beautiful experiences, and real income for your business at the same time.
If this episode sparks ideas for you, I’d love to hear about it.
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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In this episode of The Profitable Photographer, I had such a delightful conversation with Karen Wood about the art and business of newborn photography….and the business of photography for any specialty.
Karen Wood is an award-winning newborn photographer, educator, and speaker based in Dallas. She has photographed everything from sports and weddings to family portraits, but her passion today is newborn and maternity photography. Karen is also an associate with the Professional Newborn Photographers International and loves helping photographers improve their technical skills, safety practices, and client experience.
What I especially appreciated was Karen’s calm, thoughtful approach. She has such a deep understanding of both the technical side of photography and the emotional side of serving families. Her wisdom around creating custom sessions and learning to truly “see” light was incredibly inspiring.
In This Episode
• How to safely soothe and pose newborns during sessions
• Why custom, personalized experiences lead to higher sales
• Common lighting mistakes photographers make (and how to fix them)
• Why continuing education can dramatically improve your photography business
Connect with Karen
https://www.karen-laine.com/for-photographers
Karen’s Free Gift
Karen generously offered a complimentary 15-minute image critique/coaching session for a limited number of photographers. Just reach out to her through her website
Memorable Takeaway
Karen reminded us that success in photography often comes from slowing down, mastering the fundamentals, and creating a personalized experience that clients truly value. Whether you photograph newborns or any kind of portrait, learning to connect with people and refine your craft is what helps you stand out.
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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I had such a great conversation with Marcin Rafalowicz in this episode of The Profitable Photographer. He’s incredibly smart, thoughtful, and inspiring, and we talked about so much more than photography.
We dove into mindset shifts, perfectionism, confidence, AI, automation, networking, and what it really takes to build a profitable business without trying to do everything alone.
One of my favorite takeaways:
“Perfectionism keeps photographers stuck. Progress and consistency are what actually build businesses.”
In This Episode:
• Letting go of perfectionism
• Using AI and automation to save time
• Why mindset matters in business growth
• The power of networking and relationships
• Learning through failure instead of fearing it
About Marcin Rafalowicz
Marcin is a photographer, branding specialist, and business coach with 17 years of experience in weddings, portraits, fashion, and corporate photography. His work has appeared in publications including Vogue and Cosmopolitan through collaborative editorial projects. Today, he helps photographers build profitable businesses through mindset coaching, branding, marketing, automation, and AI systems.
Connect with Marcin
• ProImageAcademy.com/start
Special Free Gift
Marcin is offering listeners a free business scoreboard assessment at ProImageAcademy.com/start to help photographers identify their strengths, biggest bottlenecks, and areas for growth.
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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On The Profitable Photographer with Luci Dumas, I’m joined by the wonderful Kimberly Olker for a conversation about pivoting, community, creativity, and building a photography business that can evolve with you over time.
Kimberly has been a professional photographer for more than 20 years, specializing in Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, weddings, and portraiture. She’s also a Master Photographer, Photographic Craftsman, educator, and recent winner of the top landscape image award at Imaging USA’s International Photographic Competition.
We talk about:
• What photographers need to know about photographing Bar and Bat Mitzvahs
• Why community and referrals are everything in this niche
• How Kimberly pivoted during the pandemic to continue serving families
• Transitioning into fine art and landscape photography later in your career
• Financial wisdom for photographers planning long-term success
• Why creativity and adaptability matter so much as entrepreneurs
Kimberly also shares beautiful insights about mentorship, service, and creating a business that supports both your life and your joy.
One of my favorite takeaways from this episode:
“Look for something beautiful… and even better, create it.”
If you’ve ever wondered about photographing Bar Mitzvahs, transitioning into a new genre, or creating a business that gives you more freedom over time, this episode is full of wisdom and heart.
You can find Kimberly at Olker Photography and learn more about her teaching, mentoring, and photography work there.
And as always, I’d love for you to subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and connect with me at Luci Dumas Coaching.
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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In this solo episode, I’m talking about something so many photographers and creatives struggle with: learning to separate our work from our worth.
It’s easy to believe that if clients love our images, we are lovable… and if they don’t book, buy, or question our pricing, somehow we’re not enough.
The truth is: your value is inherent.
It is not determined by sales, praise, bookings, or outside validation.
In this episode, I share personal stories—from selling bouquets made from my neighbors’ flowers as a kid (oops!) to my journey as a recovering perfectionist—and how those experiences shaped my need for approval.
We cover:
• Why photographers confuse their product with their identity
• The 4 kinds of potential clients—and why “no” isn’t personal
• How fear of criticism holds us back
• How to learn from mistakes without spiraling
• Why growth matters more than perfection
This episode is a reminder that you are worthy and valuable—whether someone books you or not.
As always, I’m cheering you on.
Connect with me at LuciDumasCoaching.com or book a free 20-minute chat if this speaks to your heart.
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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I was really excited for this conversation with Jamar Jones—and it did not disappoint. He’s the real deal when it comes to branding, mindset, and building a business that actually grows.
He was a featured speaker at PPA’s Imaging Expo this year and got rave reviews. Author of the book Change Your Circle, Change Your Life AND host of The Foureva Podcast.
In this rich conversation, Jamar shares how he went from music to photography and videography, and then into business advisory. This journey included opening for TI, Snoop Dogg, and Keyshia Cole as a hip-hop artist. Then created a thriving photography business. and a company called Foureva Media, where he is a branding/business advisor for clients such as Marcus Lemonis and Red Bull.
We talk a lot about something I know so many of us struggle with—how to grow when we feel stuck. His answer? Change your circle. Not by abandoning people, but by expanding into spaces where you’re challenged, supported, and inspired. By networking is ways that work with people who can support you and that you support in return.
We also get into the balance of Mindset and Action (he says it’s 50/50), how to introduce yourself in a way that makes people lean in, and why soft skills might matter even more than your technical skills.
A few things we cover:
• A better way to network (and actually connect)
• Why mindset + action both matter
• Building referral relationships that last
And I love this question he shared for networking: “What exciting things are you working on right now?”
So much better than “What do you do?”
If you’ve ever felt stuck or like you’re doing all the things but not getting where you want to go, this episode will give you a fresh perspective.
You can find Jamar at Forever Media and check out his book Change Your Circle, Change Your Life.
He has a gift for you too…a Wiki Audit https://forms.gle/u38m7S6RXmkWCAdX8
And as always, I would love for you to subscribe, comment, and check out my lucidumascoaching.com website
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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I was so jazzed to have a conversation with Ashley Lowder, a boutique newborn and maternity photographer and educator in Huntsville, Alabama. It was fantastic! She shares how she built a highly profitable business by focusing on exceptional client experience, not just taking pictures.
Ashley walks us through her concierge-style approach—from the first phone call to visiting clients in their homes, helping with wardrobe, and even installing artwork on their walls. It’s all about creating something meaningful and stress-free for her clients.
We also talk about newborn photography—lighting, wrapping, and the importance of safety—as well as staying calm and confident during sessions.
In this episode, we cover:
• Creating a high-touch, boutique photography experience
• Why in-home consultations build connection and sales
• Simple lighting tips for newborns
• Wrapping basics and newborn safety
• Separating your work from your worth
One of my favorite reminders: just because a session feels challenging doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong.
You can connect with Ashley here:
AshleyLowderPhotography.com
Instagram: @alphuntsville/
I hope you know that I’m always cheering you on as you build a photography business that is both profitable and meaningful!
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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Chris Wooley, M.Photog., Cr., CPP, F-PPW—also known as The Photo Professor—is one of those people who makes you think differently in the best way. He’s a photographer, educator, and President-Elect of the American Society of Photographers, and he’s built his career around helping photographers make smarter, more intentional decisions.
And honestly… that’s what this whole conversation is about.
We talked about how every part of our work—lighting, lens choice, pricing, sales—is really just a series of decisions. And when we make better ones (with purpose instead of guessing), everything improves: our photos, our client experience, and yes… our income.
I especially loved how Chris simplifies the sales process. Instead of reinventing the wheel every time, he encourages creating a system that builds trust and guides clients naturally. No pressure, no awkwardness—just clarity and confidence. We also dive into pricing in a way that actually makes sense (what do you need, and how do you align that with your clients?).
And if you’ve ever struggled with selling wall art—this part alone is worth the listen. The way we present our work matters more than we think.
In This Episode:
• Why better decisions (not more effort) are the key to better photos and a stronger business
• How to simplify your sales process so it feels natural, not pushy
• A smarter approach to pricing that supports both you and your clients
• Why presentation—especially with wall art—can completely change your sales
This one is such a good reminder: you don’t need to do more… you just need to decide better.
And he has a $50 discount on his amazing new sales In Person Sales program IPS Viewer Lite at www.cwooley.com/profitable Use the code Profit50
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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In this solo episode, I explore the heart of photography—light. Inspired by the idea that “lighting is the love language of photography,” I delved into my passion and knowledge of light and lighting…and shared how light has the power to transform ordinary moments into something emotional, artistic, and truly unforgettable. This isn’t just about technique—it’s about learning to see light, shape it, and use it with intention.
Luci also breaks down how light and shadow work together to create depth, dimension, and mystery—because without shadow, everything feels flat. When you begin to understand both, your images become more expressive, more meaningful, and more impactful.
She also connects this to business: when your work feels more emotional and intentional, clients stop comparing prices—and start choosing you for your vision.
In This Episode:
Why light and shadow are essential for creating depth, mood, and storytellingHow mastering light elevates your work creatively—and helps you become more profitableThe power of light direction (front, side, back) and how it shapes every portraitEasy, practical exercises to train your eye—using windows, your hand, or simple tools at homeThis episode is both inspiring and practical—a reminder to slow down, observe, and play with light. Because when you truly understand it, your photography becomes something people don’t just see… they feel.
By the way, there is a free ebook available on my website www.lucidumascoaching.com
and a video of this podcast episode on WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/@PROFITABLEPHOTOGRAPHER
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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I LOVED this episode of The Profitable Photographer with Suzanne Luttig, and I have to say—this conversation completely shifted the way I think about real estate photography.
It was so popular in 2023, I decided to give it a “reboot.”
What I love most about Suzanne’s journey is how intentional she was from the very beginning. When she decided to become a photographer, she didn’t just “wing it.” She went all in—education, mentorship, learning both the craft and the business side. It’s such a powerful reminder that growth doesn’t happen by accident… it happens when we commit to learning, practicing, and showing up again and again.
We also talk about why real estate photography can be an incredible niche—especially for photographers who are a little further along in life and looking for something sustainable, creative, and profitable. Suzanne shares how this path opened doors for her in a way that felt aligned and energizing.
And honestly? She made it sound like so much more fun than most of us imagine. From chasing beautiful light to composing interiors with intention, there’s a level of artistry here that might surprise you.
She would love for you to friend her on Facebook, look up her website, and ask her more questions about Real Estate Photography at timelessnebraska.com or https://www.facebook.com/TimelessNebraskaMedia/
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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This episode felt like such a full-circle moment for me. I’m talking with my former photography mentee, Cortnie Davis, who has grown from an 18-year-old wedding photographer into a thoughtful consultant helping creative entrepreneurs build calmer, more sustainable businesses.
Cortnie began her career behind the camera and later added floristry to her creative life. Today she works at the intersection of creativity, systems, and sales, helping wedding professionals and other service-based creatives turn all that invisible behind-the-scenes work into intentional systems that actually support their businesses.
With a background in hospitality and years of client-facing experience, Cortnie believes strong processes should feel human and supportive — not rigid or overwhelming. She’s equal parts people-obsessed and spreadsheet-loving, and her work focuses on helping creatives build workflows that allow their artistry to thrive.
In our conversation, we also reminisce about her early photography days and the moment at a conference when a little encouragement helped her keep going. Hearing how that stayed with her all these years truly touched my heart.
We also talk about the powerful mindset shift from scarcity to service, and why documenting your workflows and using tools like HoneyBook and ShootProof can make running a photography business so much easier.
In this episode
• The moment of encouragement that helped Cortnie stay in photography
• Why a service mindset can calm anxiety and make selling feel natural
• How documenting your workflows can completely change your business
• The importance of personal touches in client communication
• Systems and tools that free creatives to focus on what they love
A thoughtful, honest conversation about creativity, burnout, service, and building a photography business that feels calmer, clearer, and more profitable — without losing the human touch.
To connect with Cortnie [email protected]
cortniedee.com
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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You will love this wonderful conversation with my Canadian friend Cristina Sacco — a photographer who has built a thriving career for more than 20 years by staying curious, saying yes to opportunities, and bringing heart into everything she photographs.
Cristina is the founder of Boy Girl Photography, where she photographs newborns and families, and Stetati Media, where she works with corporate and medical clients on larger commercial projects. We talk about how her journey evolved from photographing babies to producing commercial shoots, and how being open to new opportunities helped her grow her skills and confidence.
Her career has unfolded in surprising ways by just saying yes to requests for jobs outside of her main focus. This led her to create a brand new aspect to her business as a commercial photographer while still having her portrait photography specialty.
One of the most powerful parts of our conversation is how giving back through nonprofit work opened unexpected doors in her career. Cristina has volunteered her photography for several charities, including projects supporting breast cancer survivors and the organization Cameras for Girls, where she now serves on the board.
She also shares why photographers should stop comparing themselves to others and instead focus on creating meaningful work and a genuine connection with their clients.
In this episode, we discuss:
• How she built two photography businesses
• Why volunteering with your photography can open unexpected doors
• The power of connection when photographing people
• How saying yes to opportunities can expand your career
Cristina’s story is a beautiful reminder that when we follow our passions and stay open to new experiences, our photography careers can grow in ways we never expected.
Connect with Her:
Boy Girl Photography – https://boygirlphotography.com
Stetati Media – https://stetatimedia.com/
If you'd like support building a photography business that truly works for you, you can schedule a complimentary 20-minute chat at:
lucidumascoaching.com
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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I had the absolute joy of talking with my friend, Valerie Tabor Smith — one of the most published children’s photographers in the world and a pro at art licensing.
Valerie’s career is fascinating. She began in wedding photography, discovered her love for babies and children, and eventually built an international licensing business with her images appearing on greeting cards, calendars, and products around the globe. Her work has even been displayed at EPCOT, and she received the prestigious Steuben Trophy from Kodak.
But what I love most about this conversation isn’t just the accolades — it’s Valerie’s honesty about reinvention, rejection, persistence, and staying true to your creative heart.
We talk about how she moved from black and white hand-tinted portraits into color work, how a calendar company first “discovered” her images, and what photographers today can learn about breaking into commercial and licensing markets.
Valerie shared so much, including
• How she broke into art licensing (and handled rejection)
• The evolving world of greeting cards, calendars, and product design
• Why following your passion is still the smartest business strategy
We also talk about balancing creativity with family life, how the industry has shifted for women photographers, and the incredible opportunities that still exist in commercial photography for those willing to pursue them.
This episode is part inspiration, part history lesson, and part encouragement to trust your artistic voice.
And as always, I’m cheering you on as you build a business that is not only profitable… but deeply aligned with who you are.
To connect with her [email protected]
https://www.valerietaborsmith.com/
Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:
Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
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