Explore every episode of the podcast Freedom Focus Photography
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Why You May Not Need a CRM | 19 Nov 2024 | 00:27:03 | |
269 - Raise your hand if you've ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of setting up a CRM for your photography business. What to Listen For:
CRMs can be powerful tools, but they’re not the only way to keep your photography business organized and thriving. By exploring simple alternatives like spreadsheets or Trello—and hybrid solutions like CloudSpot—you can streamline your workflow without unnecessary stress or expense. Want to explore Nicole’s favorite tool? Check out this exclusive CloudSpot offer and start simplifying your process today! Resources From This Episode:
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| Why Craft Isn’t Enough with Heather Lahtinen | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:41:46 | |
270 - Is your photography business stuck on repeat? What to Listen For:
Running a thriving photography business requires more than just stunning images. Nicole and Heather unpack the strategies, mindset shifts, and client stories that prove growth is possible with the right approach. If you’re ready to step into your next level, listen now and start making the changes that will transform your business. Important Links:
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| Mastering Dog Posing | 03 Dec 2024 | 00:30:49 | |
271 - Ever felt stuck mid-session, wondering, "What pose should I try next?" You’re not alone! What to Listen For:
Ready to master the art of posing? Download your free six posing cards at hairofthedogacademy.com/posing-tips and take the stress out of planning your next session. JOIN THE PARTY:
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| REPLAY - 234 - Art, Lifestyle, or Love: What drives your business? | 17 Dec 2024 | 00:55:27 | |
This episode originally aired on March 2024. Not a pet photographer? Don’t pass this episode over as it will still be applicable as the first two buckets will be the same, but your love of dog would simply be the love of whatever your subject of choice is. What To Listen For:
We each created our business for different reasons, but one reason that is often universal was the goal of having more fulfillment and freedom in our lives. To make money doing something we love. This episode will open your eyes to the different roads that photographers choose to travel down and how when you know more about your motivation, you can make your business even more fulfilling. Resources from this Episode
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| Craft vs. Business with Shelley Paulson | 10 Dec 2024 | 00:42:26 | |
272 - Do you need to perfect your photography skills before diving into business? Or can you grow both at the same time? What to Listen For:
Building a successful photography business is all about balance—refining your craft while building a strong business foundation. Shelley and I agree that while there’s no “right” path, having a plan and investing in both sides of the equation is key to long-term success. So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, don’t forget: both your skills and your business deserve attention. Ready to take the next step? Tune in to this episode, and don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and check out the resources below! Shelley’s Resources:
Nicole’s Resources:
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| REPLAY - 256 - Money Story Shattering with Heather and Kerry | 31 Dec 2024 | 00:44:51 | |
This episode originally aired on August 2024. What to listen for: The Major Belief Shift: Kerry uncovered a 40-year-old belief about money and luxury that was holding her back from fully embracing her portrait photography business. The "Outsider" Syndrome: Kerry realized she felt like an outsider when dealing with wealthy private clients, a feeling rooted in her childhood experiences with money. Shifting from Discomfort to Empowerment: By acknowledging and understanding her discomfort, Kerry found a way to embrace it and transform her approach to sales. Curiosity as a Tool: Kerry's commitment to curiosity allowed her to explore the deeper reasons behind her discomfort with selling to private clients, leading to significant breakthroughs. The Importance of Alignment: The episode highlights how feeling aligned with your work can make all the difference in your business success. Resources From This Episode:
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| REPLAY - 250 - Travel Hacking 101 | 24 Dec 2024 | 00:36:27 | |
This episode originally aired on July 2024. Here's what you'll learn in this episode: Introduction to Travel Hacking: Learn what travel hacking is and how it can help you travel for free or at a significantly reduced cost. Choosing the Right Credit Cards: Tips on selecting the right credit cards based on your travel goals and spending habits. Security Benefits of Credit Cards: Why credit cards are more secure than debit cards for travel and everyday use. Annual Fees and Credit Scores: Discussion on whether annual fees are worth it and how opening new credit cards affects your credit score. Credit Card Travel Insurance: Real-life examples of how credit card travel insurance can save you money and hassle during unexpected travel issues.
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| Unlocking the Power of Partner Marketing with Tanya Smith | 07 Jan 2025 | 00:38:19 | |
273 - Are you ready to supercharge your photography business? What to Listen For
This episode with Tanya Smith was packed with actionable marketing strategies to help you build a thriving photography business. From creating meaningful partnerships to mastering the art of follow-up, Tanya’s advice will inspire you to take control of your client pipeline. Remember: marketing is the key to consistency, and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming! If you loved today’s episode, make sure to check out Tanya’s Mastery Summit for Portrait Photographers happening on January 21, 2025. You can grab your free ticket at the link below. Important Links
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| How Your Voice Impacts Sales with Tracy Goodwin | 14 Jan 2025 | 00:46:45 | |
274 - You’ve heard it before: “People do business with those they know, like, and trust.” But Tracy Goodwin is here to flip that script. What to Listen For
Your voice is your most powerful sales tool—and Tracy Goodwin just gave us the blueprint to use it with confidence and purpose. By removing the “masks” that block connection and learning to stand on the solid ground of your expertise, you’ll not only attract more clients but also create an experience they’ll never forget. Ready to dive deeper? Be sure to grab Tracy’s free audio resource, Command Any Space, at www.captivatetheroom.com/command. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Freedom Focus Photography podcast for more insights to grow your photography business with intention and freedom! Connect with Tracy
Nicole's Resources JOIN THE PARTY:
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| The Commitment Breakthrough with Heather Lahtinen | 21 Jan 2025 | 00:34:38 | |
275 - Do you really believe you’re capable of building the photography business of your dreams? What to Listen For:
If you’ve been struggling with self-doubt, fear of failure, or just feeling “stuck” in your photography business, this episode is your wake-up call. Remember: Your commitment to yourself and your goals is the key to creating the business of your dreams. Start by answering the six questions Heather shared today, and see how your mindset begins to shift. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode, and check out our resources below to take the next step toward your goals! 🐾Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy - www.hairofthedogacademy.com 🐾Stop competing on price, sell without feeling pushy, and reach consistently $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula - www.freedomfocusformula.com 🐾Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate - www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate 🐾Discover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy - www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial 🐾Join the Progress Lab workshop - www.hairofthedogacademy.com/progress JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Your Marketing Plan with Dayna Schaaf | 28 Jan 2025 | 00:45:03 | |
276 - Are you ready to fill your marketing jar? What to listen for:
If marketing has ever felt overwhelming or unclear, this episode is your roadmap to success. By breaking down your marketing strategy into manageable steps, you’ll be able to focus your energy on what works and build a sustainable system for growth. Ready to fill your marketing jar? Start with one “rock” and watch your business flourish! Don’t forget to grab Dana’s free Marketing Jar Worksheet at www.thiscantbethathard.com/marketingjar, and let us know how you’re putting these ideas into action. Important Links:
Connect with Dayna
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| Revolutionizing Online Sales with Courtney Bryson | 04 Feb 2025 | 00:32:26 | |
277 - What if you could streamline your photography sales process, save time, and still hit $6K average sales? This week, I’m chatting with Courtney Bryson of CM Bryson Photography, who’s mastered a unique approach to client sales. Living in a town of just 800 people, Courtney has found innovative ways to serve her clients through boutique, high-touch experiences—even without in-person meetings. Tune in to learn how her hybrid video sales method is transforming her business and what it can do for yours!
Courtney’s hybrid video sales method proves that you can simplify your workflow, serve clients better, and increase your average sales—all while having more time freedom. If you’re looking for a way to enhance your client experience and boost your profitability, this episode is a must-listen! Links and Resources
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| The Hidden Reason You're Stuck | 18 Feb 2025 | 00:40:52 | |
279 - Have you ever caught yourself procrastinating, undercharging, or shying away from marketing your business? It’s not laziness—it’s Success Intolerance. In this episode, we uncover why success can feel unsafe and how to rewire your brain to embrace the next level of your business. What to Listen For:
Success isn’t just about strategy—it’s about how you see yourself. If you’re struggling with self-doubt, undercharging, or avoiding growth, it’s time to break through those hidden barriers. Inside Elevate, we help photographers normalize success, build confidence, and create profitable businesses without feeling overwhelmed. And if you want a taste of this work, join us for Coach Week! 📅 Coach Week is happening on February 25-27 at 2 PM EST. It's totally free, packed with mindset shifts and live coaching that will change the way you see your business. Don’t miss this chance to experience the power of coaching for yourself! 🔗 Sign up now at hairofthedogacademy.com/coachweek
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| My Must-Have Tools | 11 Feb 2025 | 00:23:10 | |
278 - Ever wonder what tools, products, and software I absolutely cannot live without in my photography business? From the best print labs to time-saving editing software, I’m sharing all my favorite things in this episode. No, I’m not giving away a car (sorry, Oprah vibes not included!), but I am giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the must-have tools that make my photography business run smoother and more profitably. What to Listen For:
That’s a wrap on my list of must-have photography tools and products! Whether you’re looking to streamline your workflow, upgrade your print offerings, or save time on editing, I hope you found some game-changing ideas in this episode. Got a favorite product or tool you swear by? Shoot me a DM on Instagram @NicoleBegleyOfficial and let me know! 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss our upcoming 10-part pricing series—you won’t want to miss it! Important Links Mentioned:
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| Four Stages of Growth | 25 Feb 2025 | 00:15:22 | |
280 - Ever feel stuck in your photography business, wondering how some photographers are booking high-end clients while you’re grinding for low-paying gigs? In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, Nicole Begley kicks off a 10-part pricing series by unveiling the four levels of photography business growth. Learn how to move from budget-friendly shoots to luxe, high-end sales—without feeling salesy or pushy. What to Listen For:
Where are you in your photography business journey? Are you still stuck offering low-cost digitals, or are you ready to soar into those $2,000+ average sales? No matter your level, this episode will help you map out your next steps. Want more guidance? Visit freedomfocusformula.com for resources that will help you grow your business with confidence and clarity. 🎯 Don’t forget to subscribe and catch the next episode of our 10-part pricing series! IMPORTANT LINKS:
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| Cost of Goods Sold Demystified | 04 Mar 2025 | 00:15:24 | |
281 - Pricing your photography services shouldn’t feel like a guessing game! But if you’ve ever wondered why your bank account doesn’t reflect your hard work, it might be time to look at your cost of goods sold (COGS). In this episode, we’re breaking down what COGS really means for your photography business and how to price your products profitably—without the overwhelm. What to Listen For:
Understanding your cost of goods sold is the key to running a profitable photography business—whether you’re part-time, full-time, or growing to the next level. Now, it’s time to put this into action! 💡 Ready to make pricing easier? Get access to the Session Profit Planner at freedomfocusformula.com/target and use the coupon code PODCAST for free access! DM me on Instagram (@nicolebegleyofficial) and let me know your COGS and session profit goals! Important Links:
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| A Candid Chat with Vanessa Joy | 18 Mar 2025 | 00:38:43 | |
283 - Do you ever feel like your competition is everywhere, and you’re just another photographer fighting for attention? We’ve all been there. In this episode, Vanessa Joy shares how she’s built a photography business that stands out, attracts high-paying clients, and actually brings her joy. We’re diving into marketing strategies that work (without spending all day on Instagram), how to recognize and avoid problem clients, and why niching down is everything. What to Listen For:
If you’ve ever felt stuck in your photography business—whether it’s marketing struggles, pricing fears, or dealing with difficult clients—this episode is a must-listen. Vanessa and I share our biggest lessons from years in the industry, so you can stop spinning your wheels and start growing the business of your dreams. Hit play, take notes, and let’s get to work! Important Links Mentioned in This Episode:
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| The Art of Pricing | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:16:42 | |
282 - If you think setting your prices is just a math problem, think again! While pricing formulas help ensure profitability, the real magic happens in how you structure and present your pricing. Today, we’re unpacking the art of pricing—how to design your pricing to nudge clients toward your most profitable options without ever feeling sales-y.
✨ Need help figuring out your ideal sales average? Download the Session Profit Planner at www.freedomfocusformula.com/target and use code PODCAST to grab it for free! �� Subscribe to the show for more pricing strategies, business insights, and client psychology tips to help you grow a profitable, sustainable photography business! JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Stop Inquiry Ghosting | 25 Mar 2025 | 00:24:44 | |
284 - Ever send your pricing to a potential client only to hear... crickets? 😬 You’re not alone! Many photographers assume price is the problem, but more often, it's the way value is communicated. In this episode, we’re diving into how to stop clients from ghosting you and start booking more sessions with a strong website presence and an inquiry response that converts. What to Listen For: ✔️ Why pricing isn't the real reason clients ghost you Your website and inquiry process are the first steps in making clients excited to book with you—not just compare prices. By showcasing your products, personalizing your responses, and addressing objections before they come up, you’ll start turning more inquiries into actual bookings. 🎧 Listen now and make sure your inquiry process isn’t costing you clients! Is your pricing setting you up for success? Find out how much you need to make per session to reach your revenue goals with this free calculator! Get it here: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/target Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com Stop competing on price and reach consistent $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula → www.freedomfocusformula.com Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate → www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate Discover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Sales Without Sleaze | 01 Apr 2025 | 00:29:41 | |
285 - If the word “sales” makes you feel a little… icky, you’re not alone. Many photographers dread the sales process, fearing they’ll come off as pushy or make their clients uncomfortable. But here’s the thing—sales should be about service, not pressure. Tune in to learn how to confidently guide your clients through a seamless, enjoyable sales experience that results in higher sales and happier clients. ✔️Why the “let me think about it” objection happens—and how to prevent it ✔️ What to do when your brain panics over a big sale (hello, imposter syndrome!) Sales don’t have to feel sleazy. When you approach them from a place of service, you’ll not only make more money, but you’ll create an incredible experience for your clients. Ready to transform your sales process? Tune in now and start closing those profitable sales with confidence! Fundy: https://www.fundydesigner.com/ ProSelect: https://www.prostudiosoftware.com/ Swift Galleries: https://swiftgalleries.com/ More Resources: Is your pricing setting you up for success? Find out how much you need to make per session to reach your revenue goals with this free calculator! Get it here: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/target Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com Stop competing on price and reach consistent $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula → www.freedomfocusformula.com Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate → www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate Discover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review! JOIN THE PARTY:
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| The Truth About Part Time | 08 Apr 2025 | 00:16:21 | |
286 - If you’ve ever said, “I’m just doing this on the side,” and used that to justify your low prices… this episode is your wake-up call. We’re pulling back the curtain on the actual math of part-time profitability, common mindset traps that keep you stuck, and how to finally price your sessions like the legit business owner you are. What to Listen For:
Whether you're in it for creative expression or building toward full-time, your part-time photography business deserves full-time profits. It's time to ditch the guilt and own your value. Start pricing like a pro—because your time, talent, and artistry are worth it. 👉 Be sure to grab the free Session Profit Planner and take your first step toward part-time profit that actually pays.
Resources in this episode Is your pricing setting you up for success? Find out how much you need to make per session to reach your revenue goals with this free calculator! Get it here: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/target Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com Stop competing on price and reach consistent $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula → www.freedomfocusformula.com Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate → www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate Discover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial JOIN THE PARTY:
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| $15 files? Don't panic. | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:23:18 | |
287 - What do you do when someone in your market is offering free sessions and $15 files? You listen to this episode, that’s what. Deep breath, my friend. In this episode, we’re revisiting a powerful conversation about how to thrive in a saturated market—even when someone is giving away sessions practically for free. If you’ve ever doubted whether clients will pay more, this is for you. What to Listen For:
This episode is your permission slip to stop stressing about the $15 digital file photographer in your area. Instead, focus on building a boutique business that attracts clients who value quality, service, and the full experience. 💫 🎧 Hit play, tune in, and DM me your thoughts @nicolebegleyofficial on Instagram. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
Is your pricing setting you up for success? Find out how much you need to make per session to reach your revenue goals with this free calculator! Get it here: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/target Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com Stop competing on price, sell without feeling pushy, and reach consistent $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula – www.freedomfocusformula.com Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate – www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate Discover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial JOIN THE PARTY:
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| The Sale-Killing Mistake You’re Probably Making | 22 Apr 2025 | 00:33:26 | |
288 - What if I told you that your assumptions about what a client can spend have nothing to do with reality—and everything to do with your mindset? Ever looked at a client’s house, car, or outfit and thought, “They’ll never spend that much”? Or maybe the opposite—expecting a huge sale based on their zip code? In this episode, Heather and I break down why judging your clients' wallets is a dangerous game—and how it’s probably costing you real money. What to Listen For:
The biggest sales mistake we can make? Judging clients before they even walk through the door. When we drop the assumptions and focus on service over outcomes, the entire sales process becomes lighter—and more profitable. So give this episode a listen, challenge your assumptions, and let your clients decide for themselves. Resources in this episode: Is your pricing setting you up for success? Find out how much you need to make per session to reach your revenue goals with this free calculator! Get it here: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/target Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com Stop competing on price, sell without feeling pushy, and reach consistent $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula – www.freedomfocusformula.com Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate – www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate Discover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Your Business, But Happier | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:47:04 | |
289 - What if the secret to building a successful photography business wasn’t more hustle—but more joy? In this uplifting and radically honest episode, I'm joined by J. Nichole Smith, branding guru and joy-first evangelist, to explore what happens when you choose joy over fear—in both your life and your business. If you've ever worried about raising your prices, selling to clients, or marketing during uncertain times—this conversation is for you. Nic and I get real about burnout, fear-based selling, joy-fueled branding, and what it actually takes to build a business that not only pays the bills... but feels really good to run. What to Listen For:
Choosing joy isn't just feel-good fluff—it's a practical, powerful strategy to build a business you love. Whether you're burned out or just stuck in fear-based thinking, this episode will help you reconnect with what lights you up. 🎧 Hit play, and don’t forget to subscribe and share the joy! Resources from this episode Future-Proof Your Pet Photography Business: Register here- hairofthedogacademy.com/futureproof Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy – hairofthedogacademy.com Stop competing on price, sell without feeling pushy, and reach consistent $2,000+ sales – freedomfocusformula.com Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate – freedomfocusformula.com/elevate Discover the world of commercial pet photography- hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial J.Nichole Smith's Website - joyfirstworld.com Connect with Nic on IG - @jnicholesmith JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Elevate Your Artwork (and Sales) | 06 May 2025 | 00:50:28 | |
290 - Let’s talk luxury, artistry, and one-of-a-kind craftsmanship. In this episode, I chat with Amy and Tavis Guild about their journey into creating Guild Canvas, why offering high-end art matters, and how photographers can shift their mindset—and their pricing—by focusing on prestige. Warning: You might just throw out all your old samples after this episode. What to listen for:
Whether you're ready to go all in or just want to test the waters with a price anchor, Guild Canvas is the kind of product that can truly shift your business. Simpler. More elevated. And more profitable. Go check them out and let them know I sent you! Connect with Guild Canvas More Resources Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy – hairofthedogacademy.com Stop competing on price, sell without feeling pushy, and reach consistent $2,000+ sales – freedomfocusformula.com Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate – freedomfocusformula.com/elevate Discover the world of commercial pet photography- hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Breaking the 10K Ceiling with Michelle Crandall | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:31:34 | |
293 - Michelle Crandall hit a $10,000 month in her pet photography business—but instead of popping champagne, her brain flipped out. If you’ve ever downplayed your wins or feared that success makes you “unrelatable,” this is the episode you need. Heather Lahtinen is chatting with Michelle to unpack the emotional roadblocks around money mindset for photographers—and how to finally overcome them. Once and for all. What to Listen For:
This episode is a deep dive into the emotional side of business growth and money mindset for photographers. Michelle's story reminds us that hitting financial goals is just one part of success—you also have to let yourself feel successful. If you’re ready to shift your mindset, celebrate your wins, and stop hiding your light, this one’s for you. 🎧 Listen to the episode now and don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow photographer who needs to hear this! Want to go deeper? Join us inside Elevate at www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate - save the $200 enrollment fee with the code: PODCAST. Ready for more support?
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| Ditch the Timeline with Heather Lahtinen | 27 May 2025 | 00:38:16 | |
292 - Feeling like you "should be further along by now?" You're not alone—and you're not behind. Join me and Heather as we dismantle the myth of the perfect timeline and explore what it really means to build a business you love, at your own pace. What to Listen For:
Your journey is unfolding exactly as it should—and you're learning what you need to learn, exactly when you need to learn it. If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like you “should be further by now,” hit play and let this be your reset button. 🎧 👉 Listen now, subscribe, and check out our Elevate program if you're ready to get unstuck and grow with support. 🔗Resources from this episode
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| The Gap and Gain with Heather Lahtinen | 20 Jun 2023 | 00:57:21 | |
197 - Heather Lahtinen is not fearless. I know, right? It's hard to believe. However, earlier this month, while we converged in Charlotte, North Carolina, with five pet photographers wanting to up their game at Progress Lab, I learned one of Heather's greatest fears.
Snakes.
Heather, Jessica Wasik and another photographer were driving to our next location when …
Holy sh*t. There's a snake on the car. On the windshield. Staring Heather down like he wanted to come through that glass and eat her.
She called me. Screaming.
And you know Heather doesn't swear (much) but all I heard was Samuel L. Jackson yelling "mothereffing snakes on the mothereffing plane."
When the dust settled (or more accurately, when they pulled over and let the snake slither away), Heather learned a new perspective for her coaching clients: that you have to face whatever terrifies you. And the more you do that, the less terrifying it becomes.
In this week's Hair of the Dog podcast episode, Heather and I talk through those terrors we all face and relate them to one of our favorite books, The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan.
According to Heather, we must tackle those scary, negative thoughts in our heads (the gap) and make a choice to focus on the progress we're making (the gain).
It can't be that hard, right? Wrong. We know it can be. Join us for this episode and we'll make it less scary. What to Listen for: 15:31 How to stop playing the comparison game 21:12 The consequences to hanging out in the gap 25:20 Why negative thoughts are a part of being human 44:46 How to find your winning vibe 50:17 The good and the bad of a $5K sale
You guys, there is so much goodness to get out of The Gap and the Gain, so Heather and I are hosting a Power Hour centered around our key takeaways from the book. Register here for this unique event during which we'll examine how we can harness the power of the Gain and let the Gap slither into the darkness. The replay will be available in the community. JOIN THE PARTY:
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| The Coaching Journals Part 2 | 13 Jun 2023 | 00:51:32 | |
196 - It's time to check in with Heather and The Coaching Journals. Two lucky members of the Hair of the Dog Elevate program – Christi Baker of Christi Baker Photography in Atlanta and Monica Adalsteinsson of Pup + Me Photography in Phoenix – won six months of one-on-one coaching with Heather.
But there was a catch! They had to agree to share their sessions with you, our Hair of the Dog podcast listeners.
In part 1 last month, we heard Christi's and Monica's goals and the challenges they were facing.
This month, listen to the stories Monica tells herself about feeling ghosted by clients who should be ordering their artwork and how quickly Heather turns those inhibiting thoughts into action.
And Christi is trying to adjust her workflow for calendar contest sessions while maintaining the boundaries she has set for building a successful pet photography business. Heather guides her through ways she can best communicate with her clients.
What to Listen For 6:56 How we know if our thoughts are good or bad for us 16:50 Why you should overcommunicate with your clients 25:31 The steps Monica can take to become more visible in her community 42:26 How Christi can surprise and delight her clients while keeping her boundaries in place 48:16 What to do with clients who don't always respect your time
Is it a little crazy to think setting boundaries allows you to free yourself for more success? Not at all.
In fact, Heather reminds us just how those limits can help us be unlimited.
You guys, there was so much meat in this sandwich! Listen to this episode and you will pick up ideas on how to improve your business processes and your mindset. JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Are DSLRs Dead with Robby from YM Camera | 06 Jun 2023 | 00:40:44 | |
195 - DSLRs are dead. Long live the DSLR!
What to listen for 4:25 What Nikon and Canon have stopped developing 13:09 The best mirrorless body for pet photography 20:03 Why you might want to stretch your initial budget 27:42 The difference in dynamic range from DSLR to mirrorless 29:34 Is Godox really all that and a bag of chips Even though I've made the switch to mirrorless with my R5, I've been holding onto my EF lenses and using Canon's adaptor. However, after this conversation, Robby is making me give serious consideration to taking the leap and going all-in. What about you? Are you hanging on to your DSLR for a while longer? Or have you dipped your toes into mirrorless? JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Partnerships and Podcasts with Urban Dog Studio | 30 May 2023 | 00:55:18 | |
194 - Have you heard the old saying, "It's a marathon, not a sprint"?
The one they have with each other.
Then they published a book together and now they're capitalizing on the relationships they've built in their community with a podcast … to create even more relationships!
They're interviewing pet industry experts and business owners in their area to inform and entertain pet lovers of Tampa and the surrounding areas.
While they're connecting people within their community, they're also creating buzz about Urban Dog Studio – their pet photography business.
Laurie and Knicki join me on the Hair of the Dog podcast this week to share their journey from Day 1 to this wild moment where they're terrified to put themselves out there but they're just going to eat the frog and do it.
What to listen for 5:19 Why a book project was the right place to start 28:49 Getting into the ears of your ideal client 37:23 What needs to happen before you launch your podcast 40:46 How Knicki moves past the fear of putting her voice out there
You guys, podcasting is easier than you think it is. We're almost 200 episodes in to the Hair of the Dog podcast. Can you believe it?!?!?
It's such a fun way to make connections in your community and get the word out about your business. This episode should give you the confidence to eat the frog, too … whether that frog is starting a podcast of some other marketing plan you've been avoiding. JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Serving the LBGTQ+ Community with Lisa Peterson | 23 May 2023 | 00:31:27 | |
193 - Pride Month is coming up. For the entire month of June, the LGBTQ+ community celebrates the freedom to be themselves. You might be tempted to post an image on Instagram of a dog with a rainbow bandana and proclaim yourself to be LGTBQ+ friendly. #ally #pridemonth #equality #loveislove Please don't do that, says Lisa Peterson of Pawsh Photography in Minneapolis, my guest on this week's episode of the Hair of the Dog podcast. Lisa, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, shares her unique insights and experiences as a gay woman, shedding light on the importance of inclusive marketing strategies from posting about Pride Month to website language and model calls to diversify your portfolio. What to listen for 4:58 How we develop unconscious biases toward different communities 11:50 How Lisa broke out of her blissful lack of awareness 13:46 Why it's vital to be consistent and respectful of the LGBTQ+ community 16:04 How to conduct a model call to make your portfolio more inclusive 23:19 How (not) to pose gay couples This is such an important conversation, one that touches my heart deeply. Lisa gives us some tips that will not only make us more inclusive as pet photographers but also help us be better humans in general. JOIN THE PARTY:
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| The Coaching Journals pt. 1 | 16 May 2023 | 00:46:32 | |
192 - Welcome to the Coaching Journals! Today, we're launching a new podcast series in which we're airing coaching calls between Heather Lahtinen and two members of the Hair of the Dog's Elevate community.
Elevate is our next-level program where you get one-on-one contact with Heather and her team of coaches. In six months, you will learn how to set goals, take specific actions to benefit your business, get feedback, and refine and repeat.
We invited our Elevate members to enter to win extra personal coaching sessions with Heather, which would be turned into podcast episodes so you can pick up some juicy bits to propel your own business forward.
Our winners are (drum roll, please) Christi Baker of Christi Baker Photography in Atlanta and Monica Adalsteinsson of Pup + Me Photography in Phoenix.
Heather embarks on a six-month journey with Christi and Monica to work with them on mindset, business processes and all the magic Heather creates with her coaching clients.
Tune into the Coaching Journals to hear Heather help Christi and Monica set goals and meet them.
What to listen for 3:41 How many clients a month Christi needs to hit her revenue goals 8:38 The brain games she's playing to keep her from moving forward 14:39 Why we get stuck on the negative connotations of "selling" 26:43 How Monica is refining her client membership program 38:14 Why talking to more people nets more conversions 40:15 Where Monica is getting stuck and how Heather helps
Friends, this is just the beginning for Christi and Monica … and you! I am so stoked to see where our two photographers are going to take their businesses after these sessions with Heather.
And if you're interested in learning more about Elevate and how it can take your business to new levels, all the details are right here. Get ready to fly. JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Crisis Management with Heather Lahtinen | 09 May 2023 | 00:41:30 | |
191 - I received this email shortly before we left for spring break in Belize earlier this month: Dear Nicole, We’re canceling your Airbnb because we -- whoopsie! -- double-booked and you're out, sucka. OK, sure, I'm paraphrasing but that is what happened. And you know what? I was a wee bit frustrated. OK, not frustrated. I was legitimately pissed off. But I had two choices in moving forward: I could stay pissed off, scorch the earth and cancel the entire vacation or I could take a deep breath, get some perspective and get moving on an alternate plan. Guess what? Belize was an amazing vacation. What to listen for 1:52 The full thought process from anger to Zen with my Belize trip As my business mentor James Wedmore says, our businesses will only grow to the level of problems that we are willing to deal with. What, my friend, are you willing to deal with to grow your pet photography business? JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Ninja Productivity with Heather Lahtinen | 02 May 2023 | 00:55:25 | |
190 - Think about it for a second. What is stealing your time? OK, I'm going to stop you right there because that's your big problem: thinking about it.
Our friend Heather Lahtinen, the master of productivity and top dog at Flourish Academy, recently learned that the best way to get things done is less thinking – more doing.
If you give yourself too much time and flexibility to do one task, you're also giving yourself time to cultivate self-doubt and avoidance. And you're painfully limiting the amount of time you have left to get everything else done.
Imagine if you set a timer to work on that one project for just one hour, eliminating all distractions like your phone and Facebook and your kids and … and … and .... Would you get it done?
Heather joins me on the Hair of the Dog podcast this week to talk about the discipline you need to set your pet photography business up for success.
What to listen for 11:44 Why you should you schedule your free time first
Do you want more on productivity and time management? Of course you do! Heather and I are hosting a FREE Power Hour on Wednesday, May 10, to share some hacks that will help you get the important tasks done while still having time for other aspects of your life. This is for photographers at all stages of their journey and it’s an actual workshop – meaning teaching < working. By the end of the hour, you’ll have learned how to optimize your time and achieve more with less effort.
While anyone can join us live by registering here. You do have to be a member of the free Hair of the Dog community to catch the replay. JOIN US HERE. JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Take Back Your Time with Sara Monika | 25 Apr 2023 | 00:47:36 | |
189 - It's time for a reality check. Yes, you can do it all but do you have to? No! Guys, my life changed the day I figured out all the things in my business that I didn't want to do. Could I do them? Yes. Were they filling me with joy and satisfaction? No. Were they letting me spend time with my family and take all the trips I love to take?
Oh hell to the no.
Sara Monika, a documentary wedding photographer and photography educator in Ontario, Canada, figured it out too. She realized she wasn't taking as many clients as she could because she was too busy working on the nitty-gritty details of running her business.
Sara joins me on the Hair of the Dog podcast this week and shares eight of those nitty-gritty details that you can outsource to a virtual assistant.
What to listen for 9:08 How $15/week can buy back 3 hours of your time 18:25 Why doing less actually earns you more 38:10 The mythical balance between business and a personal life 41:15 How to find your own virtual assistant
Some many of the recurring tasks in our business can be taught to a virtual assistant. Sometimes they even do it BETTER than us! (I speak from experience for that -- all the amazing graphics you see in HOD land are created by my incredible overseas team). When you start to get some help in your business, you not only free up time to GROW your business, you also get to take a little time off.
Where to find Sara
JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Overcoming Imposter Syndrome with Shelley Paulson | 18 Apr 2023 | 00:59:48 | |
188 - Do you feel like you're just faking it sometimes?
When you think to yourself "I am not good enough" or "I'll never be as good as Blabla," you are hearing imposter syndrome take over in your brain.
And let me tell you, I do it too.
I have left sessions wishing I had planned better, realizing I missed that shot or thinking I screwed the whole thing up.
My good friend Shelley Paulson does it too – and she's been in the business for almost 20 years! Shelley, one of the OG equine photographers, is my guest on the Hair of the Dog podcast this week and we're talking about imposter syndrome.
Shelley started in the business in 2004 by photographing her own horses and quickly became one of the most sought-after equine photographers in the U.S.
Yet she still struggles with feeling like she's faking it.
Shelley and I take a deep dive into those feelings and talk about the strategies we use to silence those "you suck!" voices in your head.
What to listen for 11:25 The amplification of the comparison game due to social media 14:12 Why defining your personal interpretation of success is crucial 23:24 What affirmations can bring success to your session 38:59 How constructive feedback can help move you forward in your craft 50:31 The magic of practicing gratitude and how it rewires your brain
Where to find Shelley
JOIN THE PARTY:
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| 3 Strategies for Smoother Sales with Karinda Kinsler | 11 Apr 2023 | 00:48:30 | |
Like Nicole, Karinda Kinsler's soul dies a little whenever a client doesn't order artwork. Since we know how defeating that feels, today's podcast is here to help you avoid that experience.
No "yes, no, maybe." No client walking away feeling uninspired and insecure.
What to listen for 7:07 The significance of starting off on the right foot with pricing 13:14 How understanding your client's personality is the first key to sales success 23:29 Strategies to manage your client's insecurities during her reveal session 31:35 The correlation between a big "love" pile and a $6,000 album sale 40:47 The impact of the way you shoot and how that affects how you sell
Where to find Karinda
JOIN THE PARTY:
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| What's New in Commercial Pet Photography with J.Nichole Smith | 04 Apr 2023 | 00:41:31 | |
186 - If you're a regular listener to this podcast, you know I'm a big fan of gratitude and acknowledging our wins.
And holy cow, am I full of wins and gratitude today. J. Nichole Smith and I are still soaring from all the wins we counted at Global Pet Expo, where we re-introduced the pet industry to Animalhaus Stock Photography.
Global Pet Expo is one of the biggest pet-industry trade shows and to get in, you have to be either an exhibitor or a buyer. It is seriously exclusive and we were granted access to more than 1,000 pet-related businesses from around the world.
The response was overwhelmingly positive! Not only were they super excited about the stock photography available on the site but there was also one big clincher for many of those businesses: our new match-making service where we make it SUPER easy for them to hire commercial pet photographers by matching them with alumni of our Commercial Pet Photography Academy (more details on that soon).
As if that wasn't enough, we also invited three photographers from our recent class of Commercial Pet Photography Academy alumni to join us and kick-start their own commercial photography aspirations.
On today's Hair of the Dog podcast, Nic and I take you behind the scenes of Global. We chat about all those wins and the future of the commercial pet photography industry.
What to listen for 8:19 The three ways pet-related brands can work with Animalhaus 14:21 The surprising thing pet brands know they need in their images 18:20 How our guest photographers booked clients at the show 26:43 Why you should explore commercial pet photography 32:14 Why you shouldn't explore commercial pet photography
Are you ready to expand your pet photography business and break into the world of commercial pet photography? Join us for the Transform Your Business with Pet Photography training series with a private podcast and live workshops.
We get started on April 12 but you can register now. JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Turning Dread to Motivation with Heather Lahtinen | 28 Mar 2023 | 00:43:31 | |
185 - Do you know what Occam's razor is? Basically, it's the principle that the simplest explanation is most likely the right one.
Take our friend Heather Lahtinen, for example.
She looked at her YouTube channel, realized she needed to update a bunch of videos and got struck by an intense feeling of dread. It would be a time-consuming task, especially with an old iMac that makes Photoshop feel like it's running through a vat of molasses …
Turns out one question helped Heather dig deep and she came up with an exciting new solution.
*Heather says hello to her shiny new Mac mini M2 friend!*
Heather is my guest on the podcast this week and we’re diving into the ways we can take all the tasks on our ‘Dread List’ and get motivated to actually tackle them.
What to listen for 7:46 The that task I dread the most 13:53 How outsourcing can be a possible solution 28:04 How one question led Heather to her breakthrough 33:32 Why you need to connect with a future vision of your business 42:00 Templates, workflows and automation … YES! (visualize my fist-pump)
Now, guys, Heather and I aren't saying you have to run out and buy a new computer or new gear to start tackling your "Dread List." But we do want to challenge you to find simple ways to motivate yourself and make those tasks a little more fun. After all, what if it could be easy?
Then you might find yourself knocking those tasks off your list like a boss!
Where to find Heather JOIN THE PARTY:
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| The 5 Biggest Mistakes with Kaylee Greer | 21 Mar 2023 | 01:15:10 | |
184 - Get your sparkle pants on. This episode is going to be a doozy. There are few pet photographers who don't know who Kaylee Greer is. The brilliantly creative mastermind behind Dog Breath Photography and the author of Dogtography, Kaylee's energy is 24-7 overflowing and infectious.
Listen to this woman giggle and your day instantly gets better.
Here's the thing, though: She has struggled with her business – pricing, setting boundaries, comparing to the competition, all the things! -- just like you have. Er … just like we have.
That's right. We. Because I've been through it all, too.
Both Kaylee and I understand the complications of believing in yourself and launching your pet photography business. We get it.
So, today we're bringing you the top five biggest mistakes we both made when we were starting out.
What to listen for 9:17 Kaylee shares all the details about Shutterhound: The Conference 28:03 Why it's important to set clear boundaries in your business 35:17 You aren't too expensive. You offer a premium service. 43:43 Why not every inquiry is your ideal client 54:36 Look beyond pet photography for inspiration
I think we all know that success doesn't come without its fair share of mistakes and lessons learned. By sharing our mistakes, Kaylee and I hope we can help you either avoid them or overcome them if you're already experiencing the same struggle.
And P.S. don't miss the early bird pricing for the Shutterhound conference in Las Vegas, Sept. 5-6. It is going to be magical. I'll be there with my sparkle pants and I'm throwing out my old presentations to bring you ALL NEW stuff.
Where to find Kaylee
JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Heather Changes My Life in 20 Minutes | 14 Mar 2023 | 00:26:56 | |
183 - Do you ever have those days when you just don't feel like there's enough time to get everything done? Yeah, me neither. LOL! LIES! Some days, I feel like my to-do list looks like Santa's list in those kids' Christmas movies. Yours probably feels pretty similar.
That feeling like I never have enough time? That's a limiting belief -- and it doesn't serve me to work from a place of stress and lack. To help me change this belief, there's no one better in the world than Heather Lahtinen.
For this week's podcast episode, I turned myself over to Heather, my good friend, the head honcho at Flourish Academy and the leader of our Elevate program. I needed her help to work through some time management frustrations.
We hit "record" so we could share it with you, we set a timer for 20 minutes and Heather completely changed my life.
What to listen for 10:38 How my frustrations lead me to question all of my life choices 16:13 Why only certain interruptions throw me off 20:54 The way we start shifting this belief 26:38 The simple reframe that has completely CHANGED MY LIFE
It turns out five hours a day are exactly what I need to get everything done.
No, that's not right. Not need. Want.
Take a listen to this coaching call and you'll see exactly what I mean by that.
Where to find Heather JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Let's Get some Press with Zoe Hiljemark | 07 Mar 2023 | 00:48:56 | |
182 - I know it's nice to think you can just put up a website, post a few times on Instagram and get found by tons of clients. I sure wish it was that easy.
It isn't. You have to actively market your pet photography business to get found.
One of the best ways to do that, according to Zoe Hiljemark, is local PR.
Public relations. AKA earned media.
We're talking about getting your name and work out there in your community through local news media, from newspapers to TV stations and social media influencers.
Zoe specializes in public relations and marketing for professional photographers, helping people like you be highly visible and have a thriving business … with lots of clients!
Zoe is my guest on today's podcast and we are talking about leveraging your story, the universal appeal of pets and your amazing images to get some buzz.
What to listen for 4:31 The moment Zoe realized the importance of professional photography 14:08 How to determine your "hook" 20:13 Why there's no time like the present to get earned media 30:20 Who to send your pitch to 35:43 The press release isn't dead but … 42:33 Thinking beyond traditional news media
Guys, getting your story into local media outlets helps establish you as an expert in your field. A feature in the local newspaper or lifestyle magazine can do wonders to showcase your knowledge and skill as a pet photographer.
You build trust within your community and get the attention of potential clients.
Make sure you listen to this episode with Zoe and find the confidence to put yourself out there.
People love pets. People will love your work. People will love you. But they need to know about you first. Where to find Zoe
JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Hacking your Mind for Success with Johl Dunn | 28 Feb 2023 | 00:51:35 | |
181 - Oooh, sometimes don't you want to just punch something? It's so easy to get frustrated when you're running a business, especially a photography business where you get to wear all the hats … photographer, marketer, accountant and on and on. There are more constructive things we can do, though, to ease our stress load and take action in our business. Johl Dunn joins me on this week's podcast episode to talk about the ways we bind ourselves up in fear, which prevents us from taking action. If you haven't heard of Johl yet, he's The Mindset Coach and his mission is to help photographers like us achieve success by living with a more positive mindset. His approach centers on three key aspects -- mindset, motivation and action --- and, in this episode, Johl gives us all kinds of juicy tidbits on how to hack those into your life. What to listen for: 10:55 How decisive action and fear go hand in hand 14:02 Tools to help you take that action 25:55 The limiting beliefs that are holding you back 36:10 How one small thought can turn into something great 42:39 Get started with your conscious commitment Johl's right. Life is too short to be stuck in our fears and not chase our dreams. He recently closed his multi-six-figure portrait studio business to chase his dream, going all in on his coaching business. What is your dream to chase and how can you manifest that reality? Where to find Johl JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Tax Deductions and Retirement Savings with Tiffany Bastian | 21 Feb 2023 | 00:53:22 | |
180 - You've heard the old cliché about death and taxes, right? They're the only two certain things in life.
And neither one is pleasant.
But Tiffany Bastian is, and she makes one of those certainties less painful. The taxes, of course.
Tiffany is the founder of Bastian Accounting, an organization that works exclusively with photographers, helping them get and stay tax compliant. Her group provides online course education and full-service accounting, tax preparation and business formation.
Tiffany has more than 15 years of experience in the tax and accounting world. She has an master's in business administration in accounting and she's a Certified Advanced QuickBooks ProAdvisor. She's also an IRS Enrolled Agent.
On today's episode of the Hair of the Dog podcast, Tiffany gives us a pretty detailed overview of what you can use as a tax deduction for your pet photography business … and what you can't.
I just know there's so much inside this episode that you aren't claiming on your taxes yet. With tax season just around the corner, it's time to figure it out.
What to listen for: 5:08 The key to writing off your OWN photo shoots 12:36 Are dog treats a deductible expense? 27:16 How to calculate your home office deduction 38:00 Changing money due to Uncle Sam into a retirement contribution 50:00 Why hiring a tax adviser actually saves you money
Look, you can't just grab a drive-thru coffee on your way to a shoot and call it a write-off. Nor can you claim the gift of a canned ham. Wait … what? Yeah, that's what I said. Make sure you listen to find out what that's all about. Where to find Tiffany
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| A Marketing Strategy No One is Doing with Heather Lahtinen | 14 Feb 2023 | 00:29:29 | |
179 - There is no such thing as "competition." Every pet photographer has a different style, a different approach, a different attitude toward doing business. That's why it's OK to make friends with other photographers in your area. Heather Lahtinen and I both run educational websites to make you a better photographer and a better businessperson. Sure, you could say we're competitors but we make it work and send each other clients. Just like Heather did when she was one of the most successful wedding photographers in Pittsburgh. You can employ this strategy in your community, too, setting up a referral system with other photographers.
What to listen for: 4:37 Partnering with the competition is not an outlandish idea 12:10 The importance of working with photographers you trust 20:11 Your market isn't as saturated as you think it is 26:33 How Heather and I define our "partnership"
It is OK to be friends with the competition! It's even better if you can start sending each other clients when you know one might not be the right fit for you. Get started on making those connections now. Where to find Heather JOIN THE PARTY:
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| DSLR vs Mirrorless with Charlotte Reeves | 07 Feb 2023 | 00:48:28 | |
178 - Do you know what the biggest difference between DSLR and mirrorless is? There's no mirror!
But really, when you make the switch to mirrorless, you might even be holding your shutter release button down and thinking the whole time "I got a lemon! This thing isn't doing anything." Meanwhile, you just loaded 8,362 images onto your memory card because you didn't hear a thing.
Haha! Can a memory card even hold 8,362 images?
Seriously, though, you guys, there are some major differences between your digital single lens reflex camera and the new mirrorless systems. I brought onto the podcast today Unleashed Education's gear guru Charlotte Reeves to break it all down for us.
Charlotte, also of Charlotte Reeves Photography in Brisbane, Australia, is a graphic designer turned award-winning photographer. She is a master of natural light, especially backlight, and has an eagle eye for the teeniest of distractions in an image.
What to listen for: 2:52 Charlotte's struggle with GAS … gear acquisition syndrome 10:14 The differences between DSLR and mirrorless 18:22 The mind-blowing mastery of animal eye detection 25:31 The benefits of the flippy screen 32:31 Why you don’t have to ditch your DSLR right now
Where to find Charlotte JOIN THE PARTY:
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| When is an Investment Worth it with Heather Lahtinen | 31 Jan 2023 | 00:45:16 | |
177 - Heather Lahtinen likes to save money. She doesn't like to spend money. She's an accumulator. Heather is back for another episode to talk about money, mindset shifts and how she was convinced to spend $18,000 on coaching for herself.
Oh yeah, that does sound like a lot of money, doesn't it? I mean, it's a new compact car. Or a travel trailer to go see the world. Or a motorcycle.
Hmmm … I think I want to see Heather on a motorcycle.
This episode is all about what it takes to make a big investment in yourself and the mental blocks we need to break down to get past our doubts of saying "yes."
What to listen for: 6:17 The difference between micro and macro mind shifts 9:16 How disempowering questions can stop you from moving forward 19:42 Who Heather believed in so much she spent $18,000 34:55 The four questions Heather asks herself before jumping in 41:57 The ripple impact of investing in yourself
Heather is a goal-setter and a go-getter, you know that. She's already made that $18,000 back and now she's on her way to her seven-figure business.
So I ask you, what's holding you back from investing in yourself?
Where to find Heather JOIN THE PARTY:
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| Serving through Grief with Angela Schneider | 24 Jan 2023 | 00:53:42 | |
176 - I promise today's episode about end-of-life pet photography isn't as depressing as it might sound. So many of us dive into pet photography with the vision of rolling around on the ground and having some serious snuggles and giggles with happy, healthy dogs and horses and all the animals. That's what Angela Schneider thought, too, even though she had been through the agonizing loss of her beloved boy, Shep. When she noticed that one-third of her clients at Big White Dog Photography were coming to her for end-of-life sessions, she started to study pet loss grief so she could understand their needs and support them better. Then her world turned upside down. Her mom died on January 28, 2022, and she was left wanting to understand so much more about her own grief and pain. One year later, she has created One Last Network and is teaching other pet photographers about grief and how we can better serve our clients who come to us for rainbow sessions. And that's what Angela and I are talking about on today's episode. What to listen for: 10:52 How Angela niched Big White Dog Photography by hearing the dreaded four-letter C-word 19:31 The whirlwind of events that led her down the path of pet loss grief 30:00 You might double your end-of-life clients by learning about grief 36:04 Why you shouldn't feel bad about charging for end-of-life sessions 49:31 One thing you can do during your end-of-life sessions to support your clients
Where to find Angela JOIN THE PARTY:
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| 10 Timeless Photography Business Lessons | 17 Jan 2023 | 00:30:19 | |
175 - Are you tired of setting goals that never happen? Are you ready to create a clear plan? Boy oh boy, you gotta listen to this episode. It's just me this week, all by myself. But don’t you worry, I have a ton of goodies for you. Whether you're just starting out or have been in the pet photography industry for a while, this episode can help you take your business to the next level. Today, I have 10 timeless lessons that I've picked up since I launched my first photography business 13 years ago. 13 years ago? Holy shamoley, where does the time go? From pricing to marketing, I am all about giving you actionable advice and inspiration. These 10 timeless lessons are essential for running your pet photography. What to listen for: 4:14 The more you charge, the more you get paid 12:06 How to overcome your brain block about selling artwork 20:17 The difference between making great photos and having a successful business 22:11 Why you need to get out of your comfort zone and talk to people 29:24 I answer the question "when does this feeling of 'I can't do this' go away?" You guys, we have to remember that the pet photography business is constantly evolving and it's easy to get caught up in all the new technology and trends. With these 10 timeless lessons, though, you can build a foundation that's solid. One more … on Wednesday, January 25, Jessica Wasik from Bark & Gold Photography is hosting a free training to show us how she used her calendar contest strategy to build her six-figure pet photography business from nothing. JOIN THE PARTY:
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