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Everything is Neutral ~ Flow Like Water I Ep 18726 Mar 202600:15:46

After feeling lost and pressured to have everything figured out in the evolution of my business, I share a new approach of taking the pressure off, following my excitement, and recording raw, low-production podcast episodes with no expectations or fixed schedule. 

I also go into how using Jenna Zoe’s human design app, Align (especially its “Ask Jenna” AI feature) helped me get HUGE clarity by answering questions based on my personal chart! THIS IS A GAME-CHANGER!

I then tell a post office story about discovering a cheaper way to ship client packages after a frustrating return, illustrating the lesson that events are neutral and we can’t label them as good or bad.

Jenna Zoe's Align App

Connect with me on IG @saramonikaphoto

My 1-Minute Energy Reset for When I Don’t Want to Work (But Still Have Deadlines) I Ep 18617 Dec 202500:08:38

In this short solo episode, I share a simple mindset shift I use when I’m tired, overwhelmed, or procrastinating during busy seasons. This is a quick, grounding practice to help you finish what you’ve committed to with more presence and energy.

You’ll hear about:

• A grounding breath and embodiment practice to bring you back into the present moment
 • How I connect to the future joy and gratitude of my clients to fuel my energy now
 • Why this works through the law of reciprocity
 • Why it’s okay to use a “band-aid” mindset shift during intense seasons
 • How gratitude and focused intention can help you work more efficiently!

This episode is meant to be a quick hit of encouragement to help you get through the end of season! :)

Connect with my on Instagram here > @saramonikaphoto

The Missing Pieces Behind Your Beautiful Photography Brand I Ep 17702 Oct 202500:47:08

In this episode, I’m breaking down one of the most overlooked reasons photographers stay stuck in burnout—even when their business looks amazing from the outside. You’ll discover the key difference between building a photography brand vs. a business, and why values-aligned workflows are the missing link to creative freedom and sustainable income.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
 • How I delivered 7 weddings in 1 month without burning out
 • The myth that success = working hard (and how to ditch it)
 • Why your brand shouldn’t be doing all the heavy lifting
 • What a workflow-focused business actually looks like
• How to start reclaiming your time without sacrificing quality

🎁 Want to reclaim 15+ hours/week? Join my free live masterclass available only once a year: saramonika.com/masterclass

👋🏻 Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!
Photography account: @saramonikaphoto

✅ SUBSCRIBE

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way.

Leave a Review 🙏

If you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be so grateful if you left me a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more photographers like you!

Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

To all YOUR success,
Sara

101: How Getting Caught Up in “Industry Standard” Can Hurt Your Happiness AND Your Photography Business16 May 202200:41:50

Welcome to another episode! This week I’m unpacking the term “industry standard” - what it is, what it means for your business, and crucial ways it may be holding you back personally and professionally.

You’ll learn…

  • The pro’s & con’s of “industry standard” practices, what the term really means, and how to figure out the path that’s right for you [2.45]
  • Animation GIFS and what you should know before adopting this hot new trend for your clients [6.20], [25,29]
  • Key examples of “industry standard” practices that I *choose* not to follow and why [9.34], [14.50], [25.29], [33.15]
  • Practical advice for going against the grain and still being wildly successful in your business [15.43]
  • How to steer clear of the resentment cycle in your business and instead pay attention to things that light you up [21.12], [28.10]
  • My thoughts on having a second photographer and how to communicate your process clearly and effectively to your clients and their wedding planners [33.15]
  • Why booking your dream clients and creating effortless success in your business is A LOT easier than you might think [29.14], [31.21]


Remember, there is no one size fits all in business (or in life)! 

My hope is that this episode inspires you and gives you the tools you need to show up *exactly* how YOU want to in your photography business, whatever that may look like for you… :) 

Happy listening! 


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

100: Intuitive Storytelling Student Case Study with Cassie Cetlin09 May 202200:41:48

Welcome to another episode! This week I’m sitting down with one of my star students from my Intuitive Storytelling course, Cassie Cetlin, as she shares some of her biggest wins and takeaways from the course.

You’ll discover…

  • What drew Cassie to Intuitive Storytelling and key clues that it might be exactly what you need in your business [6.13]
  • The problem with Instagram & photography blogs and how to know if it’s stifling your creativity (and what to do about it!) [8.24], [16,25]
  • Cassie’s biggest takeaways and “aha” moments from the course, including real-life moments where she put the course into action on wedding days [11.32]
  • The minimalist approach to family photos and how to create time and space for things to unfold naturally on wedding days [25.06]
  • “Emotion-point editing” and why it’s the editing style you never knew you needed [30.42]
  • What you should know if you’re feeling scared or unsure about joining the course, especially if you’re newer in your photography journey [36.16]

To find out more about Intuitive Storytelling and to sign up, be sure to check out the link in the show notes below .

Until then, enjoy the episode! :)


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

99: Reprogram Your Biggest Fears That Come Up For You While Shooting Weddings!02 May 202200:38:58

Welcome to a very special episode of The Shine + Thrive Photography podcast! 

This week I’m giving you a free behind the scenes look at module 5 - lesson 1 of my Intuitive Storytelling course: How To Reprogram Your Biggest Fears While Shooting Wedding Days

I’m so excited to be sharing this lesson with you because showing up fearlessly as the artist you are is a huge part of what Intuitive Storytelling is all about! To find out more about the course and to sign up, be sure to check out the link in the show notes below.

In the meantime, sit back, relax and enjoy the episode! :)


You’ll learn…

A powerful model for understanding your mindset in 5 simple steps (and why you’re actually a lot more in control than you might realize!) [6.10]

  • How to consciously flip the script on your negative thoughts and take positive actions that serve you [11.16], [13.54] 
  • The most common fears photographers feel on wedding days and the personal mantras I use to combat them [14.14]
  • The infinite power of what you have to offer as a photographer and how to own what you believe as an artist (and communicate it clearly everywhere) [25.08], [27.58]
  • How to use your emotional intelligence on wedding days so you can stay the calm, grounding presence in the room and have a ripple effect on those around you [28.32], [35.17]
  • Why it’s never too late to reprogram your mindset on wedding days [35.44]



My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

98: Booking FOR REAL Dream Clients At Full Rates On a Regular Basis with Paige Ray25 Apr 202200:56:29

It’s time to book your FOR REAL dream clients! 

If you’ve ever asked yourself if it’s possible to raise your rates AND work with perfect-fit clients…

If you’ve ever doubted whether you’re on the right path or struggled to put into words what you do and how you do it…

Then this week’s episode is for you! 

Join fellow photographer and creative entrepreneur Paige Ray and I as we talk all things pricing, marketing and business growth  

Tune in to discover…

Paige’s journey to becoming the photographer she is today and how to keep going when things feel tough in the early stages of your business [3.01]

  • The 3 things you NEED to do to book perfect-fit clients and make your dream income [16.04]
  • Key questions to ask your past clients to help you figure out your secret sauce as a photographer [20.12]
  • How to highlight the transformation you provide in your marketing, so you can raise your rates and sell from a place of integrity [25.03]
  • The real reason you’re struggling to raise your rates and money assumptions that may be damaging your business growth [33.15], [36.20]
  • How to step outside of your doubt and take action (even if you feel you have no idea what you’re doing)! [41.11]


About my guest:

Paige Ray is a catalyst for creative entrepreneurs. She guides her clients in breaking new ground and dominating their industry through radical vision and meaningful action. Having spent the first 10 years of her career as an editor & journalist and 10 years as an award-winning photographer for creative brands seeking artful, editorial photography; she now combines both her passions with her creative agency Paige Ray Creative.


RESOURCES + LINKS:


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

97: My Home Birth Story! And Chat With Doula + Childbirth Educator Karen Welton11 Apr 202202:01:59

Welcome to a very special episode of the Shine + Thrive Photography podcast! This week, I’ll be sharing my raw, unfiltered birth story with you. From the highs, to the lows & everything in between… I’m laying it all on the table ;)

My hope is that by sharing my story, it inspires you to know that you CAN do hard things. And of course, that it gives you some valuable insights you can take with you on your own birth journey or to support someone you love.

Join me and a very special guest who played a *huge* role in supporting me on my journey, Karen Welton, as we talk through some of the teachings and methodologies that helped me along the way.

Karen is a doula and childbirth educator, who has supported hundreds of women in their childbirth journeys. Karen teaches women how to partner with their bodies’ divine design to have pain-free, ecstatic births and postpartum experiences. She’s on a mission to change the global culture of birth so that women no longer fear it, but look forward to it with joy. 

You can find out more about Karen’s courses in the show notes below, but for now, I really hope you enjoy and find this episode valuable! It feels so good to be sharing it with you, my Shine + Thrivers <3 

You’ll learn…

  • My hopes before the big day and the visualization exercise that helped me manifest the birth I wanted (and actually get it!) [12.47]
  • My “incredible hulk” moment (!) plus why it’s sometimes best to surrender when things don’t go according to plan [25.09], [29.44], [53.00]
  • Why childbirth is not a linear process and how to tap into altered states of consciousness to help you throughout your experience [40.34]
  • The moment of truth! Giving birth to Ben and the techniques that helped me bring him into the world [56.08]
  • How to keep going during the toughest moments and coach yourself through the process [1.36.04]
  • My postpartum experience so far and an honest look at some of my darker moments, as well as the lighter ones [1.41.59], [1.49.27]
  • My biggest takeaways from Karen’s course and Karen’s final advice for any woman about to embark on her own birthing journey [1.38.11]


RESOURCES + LINKS:

Pain Free Birth E course Link

Postpartum Bliss E-course Link

Free Partner's Cheatsheet

Free FB Group


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

96: The Power of Having Streamlined Workflows and Systems in Your Photography Business with Laura Murphy04 Apr 202201:01:08

Let’s talk workflows!

If you’ve been toying with the idea of setting up workflows in your photography business OR you’ve already started and want to make sure you’re on the right path…

Then you’re not going to want to miss this week’s episode! Join photographer, business coach & workflow educator Laura Lee Murphy and I as we dive deep into all things systems, processes, and workflows.

You’ll learn…

  • What a workflow is and why you absolutely need one if you want to grow your photography business [2.38], [7.49], [32.18] 
  • Laura’s journey from burnout & overwhelm to workflow wizard! [10.41] 
  • How to get started designing your workflows and systems [22.23] 
  • The 10x rule you can use to tackle your workflows (and anything else in your business for that matter)! [25.05] 
  • Laura’s “Take Back Your Time Framework” for defining, systemising & scaling your workflows [31.18] 
  • Next level workflows, standard operating procedures and how to know if you’re ready to outsource [34.36] 
  • How to stay motivated even if working on your processes is outside of your zone of genius [37.37] 
  • The real power of processes and why you need to take action today [53.38]

About my guest:

Laura Lee Murphy is photographer, systems strategist, business coach, retreat host and speaker for creative entrepreneurs. She educates the creative community on all things workflow, systems, productivity and time management to help her clients and students run thriving businesses that don’t require working around the clock. Laura is on a mission for entrepreneurs to schedule more date nights, brunch, weekends, and vacations as a result of finding work-life balance while running a thriving business. 

RESOURCES + LINKS:

Take the first step to finally taking back your time by streamlining your business with powerful workflows & systems! Download Laura Lee Creative's FREE Quickstart Guide for business owners with 10 must-do actions to add to your workflow to increase profits, skyrocket your efficiency and improve your client experience! Click here to download now!

The Quickstart Guide to Streamlining & Optimizing Your Biz - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/61eadff160ada4164ea6eb1c
https://lauraleecreative.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lauraleecreative/ 

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

95: Boost Your Bookings! What To Include In Your Wedding Photography Price Guide21 Mar 202200:49:12

Ever wondered what to include in your wedding price guide…? Wishing you could sneak a peek at someone else’s for some inspo…? Then you’re in the right place! 

In this week’s episode of the Shine + Thrive Photography Podcast, I’m going to be taking you through my own wedding price guide step-by-step, page-by-page.

This guide has been 11 years in the making and I’m so excited to be sharing it with you. My hope is that it will help and inspire you on your own journey, so you can increase your bookings and serve even more of your dream clients! 

Tune in to discover…

A detailed breakdown of everything I include in my own wedding price guide (down to each individual page!)

  • How to take your clients on an emotional journey through your guide so they feel confident and excited about working with you [7.40], [12.18]
  • How to build automatic filters & qualifiers into your guide so that only ‘perfect fit’ clients book you (...and so you avoid endless calls and meetings in the process!) [2.18], [4.57], [7.40]
  • The key to using testimonials in your guide (and what NOT to do) [5.30]
  • How to infuse your personality into your guide and build instant connection with your clients-to-be [9.40]
  • The number #1 question you need to keep in mind at every stage when you’re writing your guide [12.22]
  • How to use your guide to set expectations, tackle important FAQs, and present your investment options as clearly and confidently as possible [17.33 until end]


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara



94: Client Journey Mapping For Organization + Creating A Better Client Experience with Cassie Cetlin14 Mar 202200:39:38

Creating an amazing experience for your clients at every stage of their journey with you is the key to building your reputation, referrals, and repeat bookings as a wedding photographer…

But how do you actually map out your client experience and build workflows that set you up for success?

Enter Cassie Cetlin. 

Cassie is a Toronto-based wedding photographer with a background in service design, so it’s safe to say she knows a thing or two about creating amazing client experiences! Join us on this week’s episode of the Shine + Thrive Podcast as Cassie breaks down all of her best tips and strategies. 


You’ll learn…  

  • Cassie’s step-by-step process for mapping out your client journey [4.45]
  • The number #1 thing you must do to build workflows that WORK [7.55]
  • How to deeply understand your clients’ pain points and spot patterns that may be sabotaging your client experience [16.41]
  • The surprisingly simple psychology hack to keep your clients happy when gallery submission day comes [20.22]
  • How to identify your area of focus even if you’re overwhelmed or short on time to work on your processes [23.57], [31.48]
  • Quick and easy solutions you can implement in your business to build trust and make your clients feel happy & taken care of [27.04], [30.15]
  • Tips on where to focus your energy according to your stage in business (from beginner, to advanced, and everything in between!) [28.18] 


RESOURCES + LINKS:

Cassie Cetlin

https://www.instagram.com/cassiecetlinphotography/ 

https://www.cassiecetlinphotography.com/ 

Customer Journey Worksheet: Click Here


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara



93: How To Be A More Inclusive Wedding Photographer with Hank Paul07 Mar 202200:48:01

Let’s talk inclusion! I’m so excited to be welcoming this week’s guest, Hank Paul, to share his story, experiences, and insights into how we can all make our businesses  safer and more inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ couples.

Tune in to discover…

  • Hank’s personal journey to becoming the proud, queer-owned business owner he is today [4.17]
  • How to build a business that serves YOUR values, desires & dreams (instead of making decisions from a place of fear…) [12.59]
  • What it really means to make the LGBTQ+ community feel “welcome” and how to show up as a true ally [17.54]
  • Specific language you can use to be more inclusive with your couples at every touchpoint of your client experience [20.54]
  • How to de-gender your wedding experience to avoid harmful patriarchal stereotypes, so your couples can express their love in a way that feels right for them [30.41]
  • The worst thing you can do if you want to make your business safer for queer people… [42.01]


About our guest:

Hank is a full-time wedding photographer based in Sydney, Australia, specializing in sustainable and inclusive weddings. Hank’s pronouns are he/him and he is a lover of board games, indoor plants, and all forms of fried potato! He co-hosts the Profit on the Margins Podcast, a business education podcast for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, and is the author of Queer-Owned: The Ultimate Guide to Personal Branding for LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs.

This episode is full of powerful insights and practical advice that you can take away and implement in your own business - I can’t wait for you to dive in! 


RESOURCES + LINKS:

Queer Wedding Ally Training https://www.hankpaul.co/queer-wedding-ally-training-waitlist 

Hank Paul

https://www.instagram.com/henrypaulphotography/ 

https://henrypaul.com.au/ 

Profit on the Margins podcast

https://www.queerentrepreneur.com/podcast/ 

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara




92: Why I Switched from Pixieset to Pic-Time + My Print Sale Results21 Feb 202200:37:20

Thinking about making the switch from Pixieset to Pic-Time? Wondering which platform’s right for you? Then look no further, I’ve got you covered! 

Tune in to discover my unfiltered thoughts, tips, and crucially - my numbers - a full year after making the switch from Pixieset to Pic-Time in my own business…

In this episode, you’ll learn…

The key differences between each platform and why I made the switch to Pic-Time [5.03]

  • The best time to switch gallery platforms and how to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible [4.23] & [7.48]
  • The one game-changing PicTime feature that blew my mind which will help you elevate your client experience [6.33]
  • How to leverage Pic-Time’s resources effectively so you can choose the sales strategy that’s right for you [13.49] & [16.57]
  • A detailed breakdown of ALL of my 2021 sales figures on PicTime!  [28.04]

I’m talking profit margins, markup figures, every sale and promotion I ran in 2021… 

Plus a side-by-side comparison of my results with Pic-Time in 2021 vs. my results with Pixieset in 2020 (so you can compare)

I can’t wait for you to dive in!


RESOURCES + LINKS:

Click here to sign up to Pic-Time and get a bonus free month by using code SARAMONIKA 


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Review in iTunes

If you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!

Click here to leave a review!

Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

With love + gratitude,

Sara



How to Capture Soulful Wedding Photos Fearlessly with Raphaëlle Granger I Ep 17603 Sep 202500:58:12

Ever feel like you’re stuck in “safe mode” on wedding days – shooting what you think you should instead of what truly lights you up? Maybe you crave those soulful, layered images that make your heart skip a beat, but fear, burnout, or the pressure to deliver “must-have” shots keeps you playing small. If you’re ready to break free and capture the real essence of your couples, this episode is your permission slip.

I sat down with Raphaëlle Granger – documentary wedding photographer, educator, and all-around creative soul – to unpack how she ditched her safe zone, started shooting more fearlessly, and attracted dream clients who value her unique vision. 

Tune in to discover:

  • Why playing it safe with your photos is holding you back and how Raphaëlle broke free to shoot with fearless creativity 

  • Mini show-and-tell: watch us break down 3 of Raphaëlle’s recent wedding photos and how she got those soulful, candid shots (even when the days felt chaotic) 

  • The second shooter hack that frees you up to take risks and experiment – without missing the “safe” shots 

  • Tips to help your guests forget the camera is there so you capture genuine candids 

  • How to attract hell yes clients (and gently turn away the ones who aren’t a fit)

  • How Raphaëlle broke through her $3.5K pricing ceiling and started booking higher-paying clients who love her fearless style 

📄RESOURCES + LINKS🔗 

✔️ Direct link to YouTube episode

✔️ See Raphaëlle’s soulful images from the episode

✔️ Free resource from Raphaëlle

✔️ Check out Raphaëlle’s Mentorship & Educational Resources

✔️ Connect with Raphaëlle on Instagram

✔️ Discover more resources for photographers 

👋🏻 Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!
Photography account: @saramonikaphoto
Education account: @sara.monika

✅ SUBSCRIBE

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way.

Leave a Review 🙏

If you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be so grateful if you left me a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more photographers like you!
Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

To all YOUR success,
Sara

91: The Myth of Oversaturation with Eden Strader14 Feb 202200:52:32

Do you believe the lie that it's hard to stand out in an oversaturated photography market? If you answered "yes" and you are just thinking of starting your photography business, or are a couple years in, or have been in the game for a while, then this episode is a must listen so that you can expand your mind and senses to see the possibilities that are available to you!

 In this episode Eden Strader and I cover:

 - Why oversaturation is a lie
- How photographers can overcome seemingly oversaturated markets
 - How to break business "rules" and build a successful photography career

 Before you dive in, here is a little bit about my amazing, light filled guest Eden Strader!

 Eden Strader is a destination wedding photographer turned business coach, leading creative entrepreneurs inbuilding a life of artistic growth, wealth, and freedom. She’s traveled from Hawaii to Switzerland photographing both love and business brands, built a six figure company before age 23, and has helped hundreds of business owners step into their dream businesses.

A lover of unique color, light, and people- Eden Strader’s business is filled to the brim with empowerment, honest education, lots of color and a little bit of woo. Outside of work, Eden is passionate about removing the stigma of mental health, spreading awareness of abuse and helping women claim their power.

 Enjoy tuning in and learning! :)

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

LINKS:
Eden's Insta - https://www.instagram.com/edenstrader/
Eden's education - https://edenstrader.com/education

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

90: How She Created a Six-Figure Income Through Her Passion of Being a Nightscape + Deepscape Photographer with Kristine Richer07 Feb 202200:51:28

The possibilities are endless in running a creative business! Kristine Richer is the perfect example of that since she has been able to create a six-figure income for herself and her family through her passion of Nightscape and Deepscape photography!

In this episode you will learn:

  • the beliefs she needed to dismantle along her journey to get to what actually felt like real success to her in her photography career
  • the power of your why as a photographer and how it is linked to how confidently you show up and sell
  • how she quit her full time job in 2020, went all in with her photography business and took it to multiple 6 figures in 2021 - in a way that would surprise you!
  • shares about what she teaches in her Milky Way photography course where she empowers her students to connect more to themselves and nature through shooting nightscapes and deepscapes

 And a little bit more about Kristine before you dive into the episode:

Kristine Richer is the owner of Kristine Rose Photography and runs the Night Photography Academy where she teaches enthusiastic outdoor photographers how to create stunning images of the Milky Way. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Bachelor of Design from NSCAD University and spent over a decade as a commercial product photographer and designer. She started teaching photography at NSCAD university in 2008 and during the pandemic quit her full-time commercial photography job to instead run her own business as a full time fine art photographer and educator. She has exhibited her images both locally and worldwide and has had two of her images featured by NASA on their APOD (Astronomy Photo of the Day).

 Enjoy tuning in and learning from Kristine Richer!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

LINKS
Kristine's Milkyway Photos - https://www.kristinerosephotography.com/yourfirstmilkywayphoto
Kristine's Insta - https://www.instagram.com/kristinerosephotography/

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

89: One Day You Will Look Back And Be Proud That You Didn't Quit31 Jan 202200:06:06


This is your reminder to keep going.

Keep taking those small steps.

Those steps that seem so small and insignificant now.

Are building something bigger than you can even imagine is possible for you.

For these small steps are the bricks that help build the bridge to your success - however you define that for yourself.

They add up and build on top of one another until one day...you see this aww inspiring bridge you have built for yourself.

Yes! Take a good look at it. YOU did that!

Now, you get to enjoy easily and effortlessly making your way to the other side so that you can enjoy that life that was once a dream...as your new reality.

Pause. Enjoy. Celebrate that new reality, For as long as it feels good to your soul.

But then from there, remember to keep going.

Because you will have another bridge to build that'll take you to your new dreams.

You see, your desire to grow and explore and dream big will never end.

And that is the beauty of being human.

Don't resist it. EMBRACE it.
Yes you will feel discomfort, disappointment, and even rejection along the way.

But that is a part of it.

Our achievements wouldn't be exciting if they were too easy to accomplish.

So give thanks to the downs. Give thanks to the valleys.

Because its what makes the peaks taste oh so sweet.

So please. Keep going.

Just around the corner is another peak for you to experience.

It could be today. It could be tomorrow. It could be in a year.

But what I know to be true is...if you don't give up now. It is there waiting for you.


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

88: How To Show Up On Social Media To Boost MEANINGFUL Engagement + Book Dream Photography Clients with Tia Abbott24 Jan 202200:33:31

 Tia Abbott is one of my Crystal Clear Marketing students that has experienced a huge transformation through this mini-course I created. In today's episode, Tia shares:

  • How she shows up on social media being her perfectly imperfect self and how that has boosted MEANINGFUL engagement
  • How her confidence while shooting and running her business has skyrocketed
  • How she realized that she is actually her dream client
  • And how she has been able to confidently raise her rates and book dream clients at the same time

I hope you enjoy my chat with Tia! If you're ready to start marketing your business from the inside out and effortlessly book your dream photography clients, head over to saramonika.com/crystalclear to grab your copy of the course and dive into learning and being in action!

Links:
-Crystal Clear Marketing course
-Tia's Instagram @tialoryssaphotography

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

87: A Sign It’s Time To Raise Your Prices NOW (like by tonight)17 Jan 202200:15:41

If you're a wedding and portrait photographer, it's that time of year where you're now thinking of the following season and trying to get it fully booked

One of my OME students said she had 38 sessions and weddings in her editing queue this past November 2021, and when I heard this it broke my heart for two reasons. #1 that she was so burnt out and overwhelmed, but also, because I know she could have easily made that same amount of money by raising her rates and shooting 1/3 or half of those sessions!

 So right away I knew I wanted to remind you here on the podcast to not let this happen to you this upcoming season and to start raising your rates slowly NOW. Tune in to find out how to do so without missing out on bookings! :)

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

86: How To Handle Your Client Wanting a Refund Even If You Did Nothing Wrong10 Jan 202200:40:10

Have you ever been faced with a client demanding a refund even though you did nothing wrong? Whether you have or you haven't, you'll wanna tune into this episode because I share with you a new way of thinking so that if/when you face these kinds of "problems" in your business, they can feel much more effortless! Tune in to find out how I have been navigating my business for the past 10 years in a way that consistently helps me avoid any sort of drama with clients while staying true to myself.

Link:


Sara Monika’s Outsourcing Made Easy for Wedding Photographers online course.

Wanna know how you can work less hours and make more money so that you never have to experience burn out ever again as a wedding photographer? Sign up for the waitlist so you can be the first to know when Outsourcing Made Easy doors open again!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Review in iTunes

If you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!

Click here to leave a review!

Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

85: The Results Are In! The Goals I Set for Myself At The Start of 2021 + How They Went27 Dec 202101:17:02

Do you want an exclusive peek into my business + life to see how things are ACTUALLY going for me?

In this last episode of 2021, I'm sharing with you openly and vulnerably the results of the 2021 goals I set for myself. Some of them I "failed" at and learned lessons along the way, and others I achieved and even surpassed! I know I love hearing from other entrepreneurs about the lessons and achievements they have along the way since it helps me feel less alone on my journey and also opens up my eyes to what is possible for me too! So, I wanted to do the same for you!

With this episode, I hope to be the proof of what can be possible for YOU, but also the proof that not everything has to go perfectly in your life for you to still have a kickass year! :) 

Links: 

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

84: How To Improve Your Client Experience with Alora Rachelle13 Dec 202100:58:25

 Did you know that the quality of your client experience is directly correlated to the systems you have in place? Disorganized systems usually mean you have a disorganized and inconsistent experience that you are offering your clients, which means, there is room for improvement! In this episode, I chat with wedding photographer Alora Rachelle on what she does in her business to elevate her client experience. So if you need some inspiration in this area (which I'm sure you do because we can all always find a way to improve in this area), then hit play now :)

LINKS:


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

83: How To Magically Stop Booking Sessions on Weekends So That You Can Have Your Weekends Back06 Dec 202100:24:46

Do you feel like you HAVE TO have availability on weekends for sessions in order to have a successful photography business? What if I told you that this simply isn't true, and you can decide to stop accepting weekend sessions bookings...like right NOW!? Would that make you feel relieved? Excited? Feel more free? If so, tune into this latest episode because it is guaranteed to empower you to do just that :)

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

82: The True Cost of Outsourcing vs. The Cost of NOT Outsourcing18 Oct 202100:37:31

Have you ever thought about beginning to outsource in your photography business but didn't take action on it because you wondered what the cost would be and if it would be worth it? If you are stuck in a world of burn out, and overwhelm, while not making the income you need and desire as a photographer, then this episode is a MUST LISTEN. Hit play now to find out the true cost of outsourcing, and what you are leaving on the table when you choose NOT to outsource in your business.

Also...

The moment you have been waiting for a year is finally here! I have re-opened the doors to Outsourcing Made Easy for photographers and I'm accepting new students as we speak! The doors won't be open again until the fall of 2022, so make sure to listen up!

I've created this comprehensive course for portrait + wedding photographers like you where I take you step-by-step showing you how you can work part-time hours, and make the full-time income you need! The fun part is that I teach you how to do this by only doing the tasks you absolutely love (like shooting), and delegating the tasks that don't light your soul on fire. Oh and don't worry, if you're worried that outsourcing won't work for you or it's too expensive, I'll just say right here that the story you are telling yourself in your mind my friend, is basically a bunch of B.S. So many of my past students felt the same way. They were so scared to let go of control, but guess what, they realized they were wrong QUICK when they started to experience so much more time and financial freedom in their lives while getting back their editing, and culling, and other tasks exactly as they would do them!

As my students always say, their minds were blown. If you wanna hear more relatable success stories then I have them for you at saramonika.com/freedom !

Don't miss your chance to learn my outsourcing workflows and copy and paste them into your business for you can finally experience the time + financial freedom you desire sooner instead of taking years to figure it out by yourself. Hellllo fast-track!

Doors are closing soon for an entire year so do yourself a favor and don't procrastinate this one. I can't wait to personally support you on your outsourcing journey! Go to saramonika.com/freedom now to sign up!

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

How to Raise Your Rates & Book High-Ticket Weddings with Alora Rachelle I Ep 17513 Aug 202500:50:42

Ever feel like you’re hustling nonstop – shooting, editing, delivering, and still wondering where all your time (+ money) went? Maybe you’re hitting those “six-figure” milestones, but behind the scenes, you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, and missing out on the life you actually want. If you’ve ever felt stuck on the hamster wheel, battling mom guilt, burnout, or the fear of raising your prices, this episode is for you.

Today I’m joined by Alora Rachelle, who gets real about her journey from overbooked and underpaid to working less and charging more as a photographer and busy mom of two. We dive deep into the mindset shifts, practical strategies, and honest stories that will help you break free from the grind and step into a business (and life) that truly lights you up.

In this week’s episode you’ll discover:

  • Why just “working harder” isn’t the answer – and how simplifying your business can actually unlock more income and freedom 

  • How Alora raised her prices (and how you can do it too without losing bookings or feeling “salesy”)

  • How to spot the difference between a marketing problem and a sales or mindset block – and what to do about it 

  • The journaling prompts and reframes that melt away imposter syndrome before every sales call

  • How to lead sales conversations with confidence, serve your clients deeply, and attract dream bookings with ease 

  • Real-life stories of photographers who doubled their prices, booked higher-ticket clients, and reclaimed their time (and joy!) to inspire you on your journey 

📄RESOURCES + LINKS🔗

✔️ Direct link to YouTube episode

✔️ Alora’s Free Training: How to Book $10K Weddings This Year – Learn how to master the art of brand, marketing and sales without booking more than 20 weddings a year

✔️ Apply for Alora’s Wedding Atelier Program – Get personalized support to raise your prices, book dream clients, and reclaim your time

✔️ The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron – The journaling book that changed both our lives  

✔️ E-Squared by Pam Grout – Mindset experiments to see what’s possible

✔️ Don’t Believe Everything You Think by Joseph Nguyen – A must-read for shifting your self-talk

✔️  Connect with Alora on Instagram

✔️ Listen to the Wedding Atelier Podcast

👋🏻 Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!
Photography account: @saramonikaphoto
Education account: @sara.monika

✅ SUBSCRIBE

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way.

Leave a Review 🙏

If you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be so grateful if you left me a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more photographers like you!
Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

To all YOUR success,
Sara

81: Why I Created Outsourcing Made Easy + How it Can Help You14 Oct 202100:06:45

The moment you have been waiting for a year is finally here! I have re-opened the doors to Outsourcing Made Easy for photographers and I'm accepting new students as we speak! The doors won't be open again until the fall of 2022, so make sure to listen up!

I've created this comprehensive course for portrait + wedding photographers like you where I take you step-by-step showing you how you can work part-time hours, and make the full-time income you need! The fun part is that I teach you how to do this by only doing the tasks you absolutely love (like shooting), and delegating the tasks that don't light your soul on fire. Oh and don't worry, if you're worried that outsourcing won't work for you or it's too expensive, I'll just say right here that the story you are telling yourself in your mind my friend, is basically a bunch of B.S. So many of my past students felt the same way. They were so scared to let go of control, but guess what, they realized they were wrong QUICK when they started to experience so much more time and financial freedom in their lives while getting back their editing, and culling, and other tasks exactly as they would do them!

As my students always say, their minds were blown. Don't take it from me, take it from Nicole Vallance for example, a wedding photographer who wished she had found out about my course Outsourcing Made Easy course sooner. She shares her experience with OME in this short podcast episode!

 And if you wanna hear more relatable success stories then I have them for you at saramonika.com/freedom !

Don't miss your chance to learn my outsourcing workflows and copy and paste them into your business for you can finally experience the time + financial freedom you desire sooner instead of taking years to figure it out by yourself. Hellllo fast-track!

Doors are closing soon for an entire year so do yourself a favor and don't procrastinate this one. I can't wait to personally support you on your outsourcing journey! Go to saramonika.com/freedom now to sign up!

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

80: How To Work Smarter Instead of Harder as a Photographer with Jess Collins (Student Story)11 Oct 202100:38:51

If you a burnt-out and overwhelmed photographer, and you're not sure how to stay sane right now, then this episode was literally made for you!

Jess is one of my Alumni students from my Outsourcing Made Easy for Photographers program and she shares how she went from working long hours 7 days a week, missing precious time with her husband and 2 boys, and just feeling plain overworked to sunshine + rainbows. She said that she was basically able to find more freedom for herself in her life and keep the same income she was earning as a photographer! She no longer remembers what burnout even feels like! If you dream of this kind of lifestyle freedom then tune into the episode now and enjoy hearing Jess's transformation story!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

LINKS:
- The 4 Secrets to Having More Time + Financial Freedom While Avoiding Burnout as a Photographer
- Jess Collin's Instagram @jcollinsphotos
- Jess' website - https://jesscollinsphotos.com/

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

79: 3 Signs You're Ready To Start Outsourcing in Your Photography Business05 Oct 202100:16:32

How can a photographer know if they are ready to start outsourcing in their business? Also, is it worth it? After all, it can be scary to let go of control, and also let go of some of the money you've earned, but as you learned in the last episode it's possible to train someone to do tasks exactly how you do them, and you're leaving money on the table if you're not outsourcing yet. Aka, it's costing you MORE money NOT to outsource. Tune into this episode to learn the 3 signs that are proof you're ready to start outsourcing in your photography business!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

LINKS:
- The 4 Secrets to Having More Time + Financial Freedom While Avoiding Burnout as a Photographer

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

78: How To Have the Work/Life Harmony You Desire As a Portrait + Wedding Photographer04 Oct 202100:26:00

At the start of the year, you get all excited to finally start shooting again, and for the opportunity to get creative. You really believe that this year will be different than the last. Meaning, you won't get overworked and burnt out because you feel like you are more organized than you were last year and you made a promise to yourself that your health and life is a priority and that burnout is no longer welcome in your life.

Then, you somehow find yourself in the final 2 or 3 months of the season, backlogged with editing work, culling, and emails flooding in that make you feel more overwhelmed and even sometimes resentful of your clients. You can't seem to catch up even though you are working every single day for 12-15 hours. Sound familiar? Tune into this episode right now to learn how YOU can avoid burnout all year round to have the quality of life you desire!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

LINKS:
- The 4 Secrets to Having More Time + Financial Freedom While Avoiding Burnout as a Photographer

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

77: How I Manifested My Dream Car and OUR BABY!27 Sep 202100:40:50

 I declared to the universe exactly what I wanted and it became my reality. Both with our baby that is due Feb 28, 2022 and my dream car that I got in August 2021! In this life update episode, I share with you the detailed stories of how both came to be with a sprinkle of inspiration of how you can manifest the things you desire in your life too! :)

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

76: How To Grow Your Wedding Portfolio If You're Not a Wedding Photographer Yet20 Sep 202100:17:04

Do you want to become a wedding photographer but have no idea how to get started if you don't have a wedding portfolio? It's an odd place to be right!? If you're nodding your head, then hit play on this episode now because it'll give you a handful of ideas on how to get the ball rolling on growing your wedding portfolio from scratch! One of my listeners put what I shared into action and shared her results with me and so you'll hear all about that too! :)

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

75: How To Post Quality Content On Instagram (It's not what you think)30 Aug 202100:08:29

Do you ever find yourself overthinking what you should post on Instagram, to the point where you don't end up posting AT ALL and end up feeling defeated in the process? If you do, then you are not alone! I share with you the advice I gave to a photographer that was feeling drained just thinking about posting on social and how to shift her energy and mindset into feeling empowered to post what she wants when she wants!

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

LINKS


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

74: Everything You NEED To Know About Intuitive Storytelling!20 Aug 202100:27:24

You asked for it...And I’m bringin’ you the goods!

Intuitive Storytelling is now open and welcoming new students as we speak!

Here’s what you need to know today...

This is an online, go at your own pace, lifetime access course that will help you:

  • Become a confident + fearless wedding day storyteller
  • Create meaningful photos AND experiences for your couples and their family + friends on wedding days
  • Be in the right place at the right time so you never miss a moment!
  • Let the anxiety melt away and have fun doing what you love freely!
  • Trust your instincts confidently on a wedding day
  • Create strong storytelling photos that people will feel emotionally connected to!

Because, let’s be honest…

  • You’re scared of missing key moments on wedding days
  • You feel pressured to create photos that are “Pinterest perfect” and Instagram worthy
  • You’re nervous about all the different lighting scenarios that are out of your control and not sure how to handle them
  • You’re confused on how to balance creating beautiful imagery while also capturing authentic moments and emotion
  • You’re worried about being in people’s way too often

But most importantly, you're scared of your couples not being happy with their wedding photos!

And this is where you can step up and re-write the script so that you confidently approach every wedding day KNOWING your couples will LOVE their photos!

That’s why I’m inviting you to this opportunity, because I know you dream of going into every wedding day CONFIDENT that your couples will LOVE the photos you create for them.

Become a part of Intuitive Storytelling and start storytelling like a pro on wedding days this season!

Sign up now at > saramonika.com/storytelling

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

73: How To STOP Overshooting on Wedding Days (Save culling time + your camera life)16 Aug 202100:11:38

 Do you ever sit down to cull a wedding, see how many unnecessary photos you took, and wonder how the heck to stop overshooting so much? I've been there, done that! In this episode, I'll share with you the key questions to ask yourself before taking photos to ensure that they are more quality vs. quantity! This means you will save time on culling, save your camera life, and deliver a better experience for your clients with higher-quality photos! If you're a wedding photographer, you won't want to miss this one!

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

LINKS

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

72: Game-Changing Tips On How to Cull Wedding Days Decisively!02 Aug 202100:08:18

Do you ever end up with wayyyy to many images after culling a wedding (like 1000 +) and you're not quite sure how to cull them down even more that will curate a better story for your couples? Make sure to tune into this episode to learn a secret of mine that helps me cull down weddings to 500-800 images very easily and decisively!

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!


RESOURCES

Wanna know how you can work less hours and make more money so that you never have to experience burn out ever again as a wedding photographer? Sign up for the waitlist so you can be the first to know when Outsourcing Made Easy doors open again!

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

The New Way to Find, Hire, and Be a Great Second Shooter in 2025 I Ep 17406 Aug 202500:34:30

Real talk: finding a second shooter you can actually trust (who cares as much as you do) can feel like a tall order. Maybe you’ve been burned by “bare minimum” seconds, or you’re stuck in the cycle of doing it all yourself because letting go of control feels scary. But what if you could finally get trusted support, book more dream gigs, and reignite your own creative spark – without sacrificing your standards or sanity?

In this episode, I sit down with Jimmy Lick, founder of Second Society – a vetted network that makes finding, hiring, and being a second shooter easier (and more fun) than ever. We dive into practical strategies and surprising mindset shifts to help you hire (or become) a second shooter who truly elevates the experience – so you can save time, serve your clients better, and fall back in love with your business.

In this week’s episode you’ll discover:

  • The origin story behind Second Society: How Jimmy turned a simple idea into a 4,000+ strong platform for photographers 

  • Why hiring a vetted second shooter is so important – and what to look for beyond just skill (this one thing can make or break your entire experience) 

  • The biggest red and green flags we’ve seen in second shooters — and how to stand out if you're looking for gigs 

  • How to communicate expectations before, during, and after the shoot to avoid nightmare scenarios 

  • The underrated second shooter hack no one talks about: why hiring someone more experienced than you can be the ultimate level-up in your photography business 

  • How to get started with Second Society – whether you’re hiring, looking for work, or just curious 

RESOURCES + LINKS

✔️ Direct link to YouTube episode

✔️ Follow Jimmy Lick on Instagram

✔️ Follow Second Society on Instagram – Connect with Jimmy and the Second Society community for inspiration, job postings, and more. 

✔️ Listen to the Second Society Podcast – Tune in for more behind-the-scenes stories, tips, and industry insights. 

✔️ Join Second Society – The vetted platform for finding (and becoming) high-quality second and lead shooters for photographers and videographers worldwide. 

✔️ Discover more resources for photographers – Free guides, tools, and support at saramonika.com/photographers

👋🏻 Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!
Photography account: @saramonikaphoto
Education account: @sara.monika

✅ SUBSCRIBE

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way.

Leave a Review 🙏

If you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be so grateful if you left me a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more photographers like you!
Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

To all YOUR success,
Sara

71: Chats With My Past Wedding Clients! (What They LOVED)19 Jul 202100:36:18

Wanna hear what parts of the experience I created for my wedding clients that they loved!? Tune in to find out so that you can get inspired on how to create the best experience for YOUR clients! 

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

Timestamps:
[02:54] with Katie + Britney
[08:03] with Christina + Ranjeev
[14:40] with Jess
[23:22] with Lauren

LINKS


Sara Monika’s Outsourcing Made Easy for Wedding Photographers online course.

Wanna know how you can work less hours and make more money so that you never have to experience burn out ever again as a wedding photographer? Sign up for the waitlist so you can be the first to know when Outsourcing Made Easy doors open again!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Review in iTunes

If you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!

Click here to leave a review!

Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

70: How To Stop Being Indecisive While Shooting12 Jul 202100:18:37

Want to learn how you can be more decisive while shooting so that you can create confidently? Tune in to learn what I do to make decisions quickly and effortlessly that allows me to create work I'm proud of and my clients love! 

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

 Timestamps:

[03:18] Why knowing your priority when creating is important
[08:37] Using your intuition to guide you when shooting
[11:07] What does it mean to "capture the flashes"

LINKS

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

69: Our Experience With The 75 Hard Challenge with Sandra Monaco05 Jul 202100:53:55

The 75 Hard Challenge is a mental toughness challenge that helped both Sandra and I evolve physically, mentally, and emotionally this year. It consists of doing the following for 75 days straight:

  • 2 workouts a day
  • Drinking a gallon of water
  • Taking a progress picture
  • Picking a diet and sticking to it
  • No cheat meals and alcohol
  • Reading 10 pages

 Wanna hear how it all went down for us!? Tune in to find out! :)

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

Timestamps:
 02:32 - What is the 75 Hard Challenge?
04:05 - What made Sandra + Sara say yes to the challenge
10:45 - The hardest and easiest part of the challenge
19:07 - What Sara + Sandra  learned about the challenge
24:05 - The day after the challenge
28:10 - The importance of being easy on yourself and understanding that change does not happen overnight
43:04 - How Sandra's family kept up even after the challenge

LINKS:

  • 75hard.com

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara


68: My Go To Prompts for Wedding Party Photos21 Jun 202100:08:55

Do you wish you had more prompt ideas for wedding party photos so that they could feel more fun and authentic? Well, get excited, because I'm sharing some of my favourites in today's Shine + Thrive Photography Podcast episode! :)

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

LINKS


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

67: How To Handle Harsh Sunlight on Wedding Days and Shoots07 Jun 202100:35:04

Let's talk lighting! Wanna know how to handle harsh sunlight when you cannot choose the location from 10 AM to 4 PM? Also, are you curious why photographers rave about golden hour? Tune in to find out some of my tricks on how I shoot in different lighting scenarios outdoors on wedding days and shoots!

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

Timestamps:
[08:37] How to handle harsh sunlight when you cannot choose the location from 10 AM to 4 PM
[12:58] Why photographers rave about golden hour and how to not get grainy photos
[18:21] The best time to shoot outdoors
[21:21]Tips on shooting during golden hour and keeping your editing true to you
[28:09] Invitation for a Zoom Party within the Shine + Thrive Photography Community Facebook group on June 9, 2021, 7 PM EST.

LINKS:


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

66: How To Get Clear On Your Vision + Achieve It with Sachin Khona24 May 202100:54:22

Wanna know how you can save time and achieve your goals faster? Well, it's by getting clear on your vision intuitively, and then taking the actions that are aligned with that vision. To help you learn how to fine-tune your inner compass, I have Sachin Khona joining me in this episode to share what has worked for him in his 10 years as a wedding photographer! As we were chatting, I was writing down so many nuggets of wisdom that inspired me throughout our chat, and now I'm excited for you to have access to our chat to help you get clear on your vision too :) 

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

Timestamps:
[10:37] Sachin shares how he got clarity on his vision when he was starting out as a photographer
[13:34] A piece of advice on you can get clarity on your vision and go after it courageously when you don't have a safety net
[22:34] The importance of taking action on your vision and strategy
[24:25] How Sachin's vision setting and creating strategies evolved over time
[31:04] Creating a vision that is in harmony and alignment with your career and life
[36:45] How daily meditation and reflection helps with overwhelm, stress, and focus

LINKS:


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

65: How Showing Up As Her Authentic Self Took Her Photography Business to New Heights with Emily McCracken17 May 202100:34:46

I get it. You're trying to get noticed by your dream photography clients, and you're confused about why other photographers book those clients and you don't! You're not alone in this. My guest Emily McCracken also felt this way and she couldn't quite figure out what needed to shift, until now. In this episode, she shares how showing up as her authentic self had improved the inquiries she was getting and the connection she shares with her clients. Not only that, but she also gained clarity on how to cultivate a photography business where she could freely only say YES to what set her soul on fire, and NO to what drained her. #livinthedream

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

Timestamps:

[05:12] What inspired Emily to enroll in my Crystal Clear Marketing mini course
[09:20] How it's costing you more time and more money NOT specializing
[15:24] How the CCM course helped Emily's photography business
[21:53] Emily shares the benefits of taking a course with a photographer friend
[26:54] Her biggest takeaway from the CCM mini course
[28:09] The importance of figuring out your WHY


LINKS:


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

64: The Mentality That Is Keeping You STUCK10 May 202100:36:25

If you have ever thought or said one of the following statements, then this podcast episode is a must listen!

"I'm from a small town so it's hard to get photography bookings"

"How can I charge more when there are other photographers charging less"

"It's not fair that they get those clients and I don't"

"There is too much competition"

"It's impossible for me to raise my rates and still get the bookings I want"

Tune in to find out how these statements (whether said consciously or thought subconsciously) are keeping you stuck.

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

Timestamps:

[03:13] The two kinds of uncomfortable
[04:55] I explain the concept of Lack Mentality
[07:06] 5 statements I hear often from photographers that come from the Lack Mentality


LINKS:


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

63: Posing Tips to Make Your Photo Shoots More Fun + How to Relocate Your Photography Biz When Moving with Becca Cannon03 May 202100:57:18

Do you need some prompt ideas to help you feel more confident in delivering a fun experience for your couples, but also create imagery they will love? I know I'm always up for learning how to improve my portrait game! I love some of the prompts I learned from Becca Cannon in this episode to help take my portrait work to a new level and I know you will too! 

Also, she touched on an important topic for anyone that is thinking of relocating their business to a different city, state, or country in case you want to/need to move. She shares openly about what mistakes she made when doing so and what she wished she had known sooner to make the transition smoother for her and her husband! If all this has you intrigued, make sure to tune into this episode right now :)

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

Timestamps:

[8:54] Becca's experience of moving her photography business from one state to another

[12:11] She shares her struggles learning the new market and things she should've done better in marketing

[15:34] The importance of repeating your message to your audience for clarity of when you are moving and you're still taking on bookings

[10:20] Tips on figuring out your pricing as you switch your market

[23:12] Becca's passion in making her couples comfortable in front of the camera

[28:03] Pointers on how to approach extroverted and introverted couples at the start of a session

[34:05] How to be creative in shooting introverted couples

[38:16] How to navigate intimate moments: when to stay quiet or give feedback

[44:46] Some of Becca's go-to prompts to pose couples


LINKS:

My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

62: How to Sky Rocket Your Website Traffic Using Pinterest with Carolina Guzik26 Apr 202100:37:43

Are you having a hard time driving traffic to your photography website? Is S.E.O overwhelming you? Are the people visiting your website not the right kind of visitors (a.k.a. they are not converting into clients)? These are the questions my guest Carolina Guzik has for you and if you answered yes for even just one of these, then this episode is a great fit for you!

In 2017, Carolina changed her Pinterest strategy and the results were mind-blowing! Not only did the traffic to her website triple, but most importantly, she started to book weddings thanks to Pinterest! 

To add to this, she explains in this episode that 40 million people use Pinterest every year to plan their wedding! Yes, that's 40 million people! So what if I tell you that you can get some of those couples off Pinterest and into your website? If that got you excited, then tune into this episode! You are in for a treat :)

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

LINKS:


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

BIG GIVEAWAY! Win a 1:1 Coaching Session or My Top Courses! Here's How to Enter (before it closes)05 Aug 202500:13:08

What if you could spend just 5–20 minutes today doing something your future self would thank you for — and it led to a massive shift in your photography business?

Well... this is your chance. The 2025 Podcast Giveaway is officially LIVE, and I’ve got 3 incredible prizes up for grabs (yup, THREE winners 🙌)

1st Prize: A 1-on-1 personalized coaching session with me ($1000 value)
2nd Prize: Lifetime access to my Intuitive Wedding Storytelling course ($997 value)
3rd Prize: My Crystal Clear Marketing mini-course ($300 value)

All you have to do is:

👉Click the giveaway post link here and follow the instructions in the caption

You can rack up unlimited entries — so go wild if you’re feelin’ it!
 
Contest is open August 5-11 2025. Winners will be chosen by random draw + announced LIVE on August 12 at 12pm EST on Instagram.

🎧 Listen for how-to instructions, and some real inspiration from students who’ve actually transformed their businesses with these offers. This could be you next.

👉 Ready to enter? Let’s goooo!

61: Important Group Photo Tip Every Wedding Photographer NEEDS to Know19 Apr 202100:12:11

Have you ever learned a lesson in your business the hard way? I know your answer is yes! We all stumble along the way! Today I'm sharing with you a lesson I learned about taking group photos on wedding days and I'm passing it along to you so you can avoid making this mistake in the future yourself! It'll take you 10 minutes to tune in and save you headaches down the line, so the way I see it, it's a no-brainer! Hit play now :)

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

LINK:


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

60: How To Create a Photography Business That Is Aligned With Your Passions with Evelyn Barkey12 Apr 202100:56:26

Are you operating your photography business from a place of alignment with who you are and your passions? If you're not quite sure, today's episode will help answer that question for you! I love how Evelyn chatted so openly about her journey of rediscovering who she is at her core and how she fused that into her photography business so that she can keep creating work that not only excites her but also creates an unforgettable experience for her clients!

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

RESOURCES + LINKS:


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

59: Top 3 Tips To Intuitively Connect With Your Couples with Lydia Ivy05 Apr 202100:59:36

If you're a portrait or wedding photographer, you're likely still on the journey of learning how to connect with your clients more effortlessly and figuring out how to make them feel comfortable with you during portrait time. I know this will always be a practice for me as well and so I'm thrilled to be sharing the episode with you where I learned a thing or two myself! Lydia Ivy expands on the importance of thinking inwards, directing outwards, and syncing up and how it can have a positive effect on the energy of your upcoming portrait sessions and weddings!

If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!

You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.

RESOURCES + LINKS:


My Online Photography Courses for You

Outsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)

Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!

Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!

Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!

Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Subscribe

If you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Click here to leave a review!

With love + gratitude,

Sara

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