Success Beyond Podcast

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

Editable Welcome Packet Template - https://www.canva.com/design/DAD6SL5Zw6I/dVf7cUi1nQduHuQWIDIAEQ/view?utm_content=DAD6SL5Zw6I&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=sharebutton&mode=preview

When You Just Want to Go Back to A 9 to 5 with Dahlia Orth

Jenn Bays — Wed, 08 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400

We’ve all been there at one point or another. Owning a business and being your own boss is all sunshine and rainbows… until it isn’t. In this episode, I chat with Dahlia Orth, a creative business owner, and we get into the nitty gritty today of what goes on behind the scenes of running a business and what happens when we need a break.

There is so much pressure to achieve more and more and more. You see reels and posts of business owners and influencers that are showcasing that they’ve hit six figures or more, that they have so many systems streamlined, and that they are continuing to grow and scale.

What they’re not talking about is everything that goes on behind the scenes of these achievements and the struggles they are facing off-screen.

While we definitely possess the resilience to make it through some of business-owning’s finest debacles, such as financial stability and burnout, sometimes that 9 to 5 we left a few years back is starting to look pretty nice.

Should we feel shame surrounding that? Abso-freaking-lutely not.

We need to feel safe and secure, and there’s nothing wrong with finding something that lessens your mental load and helps bring stability back into your life. And if that means you get a part-time job, or you go back to your 9 to 5, that’s ok!

There is a time for resiliency and a time for rest, and I want you to know that it’s okay to rest for a while if that’s what you really need.

Tune in today to hear more of my chat with Dahlia, where we get very real and honest surrounding running a business and what that truly means. I know you’re going to find something in here that resonates with you!

Links and Resources:

Use this link to get 50% off your first year of HoneyBook https://share.honeybook.com/jennbaysva

Connect with Dahlia:

Dahlia Orth Creative - https://dahliaorth.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dahlia.orth/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/dahlia.orth.creative/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@dahliaorth

Connect with Success Beyond:

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

The Journey to Entrepreneurship with Nata Salvatori

Jenn Bays — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

I absolutely love hearing about other people’s journey to entrepreneurship. It’s fascinating to see how we all come into the world of entrepreneurship in different ways and for different reasons. Nata Salvatori is no exception. In fact her story is one of my favorites.

Nata is originally from Brazil and made her way to the US through her love of volleyball. Through a stroke of serendipity she was offered a full ride scholarship to play in Arizona and proceeded to study for her passion in healthcare.

She obtained her doctorate and spent years working in the healthcare field as a physical therapist. She spoke at conferences, completed research papers, mentored up and coming therapists and absolutely loved it.

Until she didn’t anymore.

That’s when she started asking herself the hard questions like, what else would I like to do? Is there more than this?

She’s always loved photography so she took a stab at becoming a photographer and within 2 years of opening her business, she was making six figures. She’s since created an app and is starting to do some coaching as well.

If she’s learned anything it’s that life is filled with challenges and twists and turns. But she’s loved navigating it all and is hopeful that she’s helping her children see and realize that there’s no one right way to do life.

Listen in to hear Nata’s amazing story and take note of her advice for people who are both new in business or who are finding that something is missing. She’s truly brilliant and I can’t wait for you to learn more!

Links and Resources:

Use this link to get 50% off your first year of HoneyBook https://share.honeybook.com/jennbaysva

Connect with Nata:

NS Photobook - https://nsphotobook.com/

Photobook Education - https://photobizeducation.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nsphotobook

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nsphotobookweddings

Pinterest - https://www.instagram.com/nsphotobookweddings

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@nsphotobook

Nata’s App - Timeline Photo

Connect with Success Beyond:

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

Communicating With Your Team

Jenn Bays — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

It’s impossible to make meaningful changes in life and business when you’re not properly communicating with all parties. Which is why it’s so important for you to learn how to properly communicate with your team and clients. Even when it’s hard.

I have this client, and she is a gem of a client. I love her so much! She works with us both on our admin side and our marketing side. One day we were on a call and she said Jenn, this all looks great, but something is missing from the marketing piece. I feel like it’s falling flat. It needs to be more robust.

Now, her numbers looked good. They weren’t stellar but she was growing and bringing in new leads. Looking at the surface of the strategy, things were great.

But for her, something was off.

Because she communicated that feeling to me, we were able to take that back, create a new plan, test some new ideas, and start seeing more growth. What would have happened if she hadn’t been able to communicate her feelings to me?

This is why it’s so important to learn how to properly communicate. Listen in to hear all of my tips and tricks for creating systems of communication and how to tackle those tough conversations.

Links and Resources:

Use this link to get 50% off your first year of HoneyBook https://share.honeybook.com/jennbaysva

Connect with Success Beyond:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/successbeyondthelens/

@successbeyond

@successbeyondpodcast

Picbabun - https://picbabun.com/successbeyondthelenspodcast

Pinterest Freebies - https://kyrstenashlayphotography.com/pinterestfreebie

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

Ensuring Your Business is Accessible to Everyone with Erin Perkins

Jenn Bays — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Is your business accessible? Do you know what it means to have an accessible business? Quite honestly, though this is something that I’ve been working toward for years, there are still so many things I don’t know about ensuring my business is accessible.

That’s why I am so excited to have Erin Perkins with Mabely Q on to share more about this extremely important topic.

Erin is a former corporate graphic designer turned entrepreneur who also identifies as being deaf and blind. She doesn’t let her disabilities hold her back from doing anything, but it is nice when others spend the time to make consuming content and learning more about their businesses just a little bit easier.

Listen as she shares more about her mission and the things you need to consider as you transition your business into being more accessible. She also shares what accessibility really means and what she has learned as she’s embarked on this journey.

Because Erin has learned a lot. She came from the world of print design but is consulting on accessibility for online businesses. She has truly worked to better understand how we can use the tools at our fingertips to reach more people.

This is definitely an episode you won’t want to miss.

Links and Resources:

Use this link to get 50% off your first year of HoneyBook https://share.honeybook.com/jennbaysva

Connect with Erin:

Mabely Q - https://www.mabelyq.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/mabely-q/about/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mabely_q/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MabelyQ

Connect with Success Beyond:

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

How Hyper-Independence can Hinder Your Entrepreneurial Journey

Jenn Bays — Wed, 03 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Do you know what keeps me going when things are really tough in life and business? My team. It’s 100% the people who are working with and believing in me and this business that get me through when I feel like I just can’t do any more.

Do you know what I wouldn’t have if I hadn’t let go of my hyper-independence? My team. Because I would never have learned to trust in others to get things done if I hadn’t finally learned to trust in myself.

So what is hyper-independence?

It’s the state of feeling like you are the only one who can do the things. Not just do them correctly, but you feel as if you are literally the only one who is capable of doing them.

Hyper-independence can and will hinder your entrepreneurial journey. Listen in to learn why, hear my story, and gain some tips and tricks for recognizing your hyper-independence and moving past it.

Links and Resources:

Connect with Success Beyond:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/successbeyondthelens/

@successbeyond

@successbeyondpodcast

Picbabun - https://picbabun.com/successbeyondthelenspodcast

Pinterest Freebies - https://kyrstenashlayphotography.com/pinterestfreebie

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

Editable Welcome Packet Template - https://www.canva.com/design/DAD6SL5Zw6I/dVf7cUi1nQduHuQWIDIAEQ/view?utm_content=

Take Back the Power in Your Business and Go from Order-Taker to Expert with Amy Posner

Jenn Bays — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Believe it or not, businesses need order takers. You however, as the CEO in your business should always be regarded as the expert. But how do you go from order taker to expert in your business? Here to share her thoughts is Amy Posner.

Amy is an expert copywriter who has coached others extensively on how to bring their voice to life in their business. To do that she had to build a rock solid business of her own.

Now she’s helping creative freelancers get out of the order taking mindset to become the CEO of their business and life.

How does she do this?

By helping them shift their mindset from the tasks their clients are asking from them, to the problems that really need to be solved. She coaches them on how to ask follow-up questions and ways to dig deeper into the true needs of their clients’ businesses.

Listen as we chat about this process of becoming the expert in your space and to your clients while also staying true to yourself and your values. One of the things I love most about podcasting is getting to have deep and honest conversations with my guests, and that was epitomized in this conversation with Amy.

After we chatted about the business side of things, we delved into how to bring your values to life in your business in a way that is genuine rather than performative.

This was truly a wonderful conversation and I can’t wait for you to hear it.

Links and Resources:

Use this link to get 50% off your first year of HoneyBook https://share.honeybook.com/jennbaysva

Connect with Amy:

Amy Posner - https://amyposner.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/amyrposner/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyposnerbusinessgrowthmentor/

Connect with Success Beyond:

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

Slowing Down When You're a High Achiever (to be Successful) with Katy Murray

Jenn Bays — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0400

If you identify as a high achiever, you’ve likely found yourself struggling against the demands your passions have started placing on your life. So how do you slow down when you’re a high achiever? How do you give yourself space to recharge and bring back your creativity?

Katy Murray joins me and Sybrina to discuss just that. Katy used to do photography full-time but found that she didn’t like the isolation of it. Now she’s started a Virtual Assistance firm and she has a full-time job that she loves. Plus she’s a wife and mother.

How does she do all of that and maintain boundaries and her excitement about all of her roles?

By being extremely mindful about her time, tasks, and requirements. She’s a multi-passionate person who refuses to limit herself to the status quo. Instead she carves out intentional time for work and breaks.

She loves to work but she doesn’t live to work.

Listen in to hear all of her tips and tricks and then let me know which one was most impactful for you!

Links and Resources:

Use this link to get 50% off your first year of HoneyBook https://share.honeybook.com/jennbaysva

Connect with Katy:

Katy Murray Photography

Ginger Biz Podcast

Instagram @katyandco.va

Instagram @gingerbiz

Connect with Success Beyond:

Success Beyond

@successbeyond

@successbeyondpodcast

Self Care and Wellness with Amanda Reid

Jenn Bays — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0400

Having a creative outlet is such an important clutch for so many of us who are still working in the corporate environment. Eventually, if you exercise your creative outlet long enough, it can turn into a side hustle and even a thriving business!

I spoke with Amanda Reid in this episode, and she shared about her career as a physical therapist as well as how she found her creative outlet through the lens of calligraphy. Her creative outlet turned into a fun side hustle that gave her the courage to step away from a very stressful job in a clinic. She shifted to working a part-time role at a different clinic, allowing her to commit time to her own calligraphy business.

Amanda is also the founder of the Calligraphers of Color, which started with her exploring the industry for other calligraphers who shared the minority demographic with her. She began with an Instagram page that she posted to regularly, and it has grown to over 13,000 members. She transitioned to a private FB group to encourage collaboration and promotion of minority calligraphers.

While it’s easy to monetize a creative outlet and a passion, it doesn’t always have to be that way. If you have a creative outlet or a talent that keeps you sane, and that is a means of caring for yourself, you absolutely do not have to make it a business. You are allowed to enjoy creating without the pressure of monetization.

Self-care is the underlying message of finding a creative outlet, and Amanda shares a handful of other tactics that she uses to prioritize her mental health, such as taking breaks from social media and focusing on her physical health.

This episode is such a good reminder to us, as creatives and entrepreneurs, that you have to prioritize yourself. Tune in today to hear more about Amanda’s creative outlet that turned into a successful business and about the creative outlets that she keeps to herself for her own enjoyment. I know you’re going to love this episode and the actionable advice it offers!

Links and Resources:

Use this link to get 50% off your first year of HoneyBook https://share.honeybook.com/jennbaysva

Connect with Amanda:

Amanda Reid Designs

Instagram | YouTube

Connect with Success Beyond:

Success Beyond

@successbeyond

@successbeyondpodcast

A BIG Announcement and Season 8 Kick Off

Jenn Bays — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0400

We are kicking off season 8 with this episode, and I have some big, exciting news to share with you!

Success Beyond The Lens has officially rebranded to Success Beyond, a business management and marketing company for creative professionals.

My vision for 2024 included a rebrand for Success Beyond The Lens. I wanted to give the business a nice face-lift to give more life to what it has become, but my business goals overall were not extreme. A nice 25% increase in revenue would have been great, but I was comfortable with my team and to continue growing organically.

And THEN, in the middle of the rebranding, I was overcome with inspiration and ideas of what the potential could really be for Success Beyond the Lens. After a meeting with a business coach, I discovered that the dreams I had for Success Beyond The Lens were too small.

I made the bold choice to step into the full potential of this business, which was a huge decision for me and for the business, and I didn't make it lightly. In this episode, I share with you how I came upon this decision and the process I followed to bring it to life.

Tune in today to hear more about our transition to Success Beyond and for some inspiration to step into the full potential of your business as well!

Links and Resources:

Connect with Success Beyond:

Success Beyond

@successbeyond

@successbeyondpodcast

Looking Back to 2023 and Forward to 2024

Jenn Bays — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0400

We are reflecting back on 2023 in this solo episode and appreciating the journey we’ve been on.

The word of the year in 2023 was forge because I was determined to forge my own way with SBTL. And, you know what?! I’m keeping the same word as I move into 2024 because it has been such a game-changer in the success of my business.

The push for success was hinging on my ability to hire. Sabrina was my support person in this process and shouldered the weight of adding to our team – and she absolutely crushed it. The new team members that we added last year are phenomenal and helped build the foundation for a solid and efficient team.

I learned a lesson in growing pains as well, and I made the decision to part ways with my one-on-one client. But part of forging my own way was shifting into the CEO role of SBTL and moving away from the daily grind of one-on-one work.

This shift not only opened the door for me to be successful in my business, but also to spend more time with my son and put quality time into our summer together. Having a team that I could rely on opened my eyes to what was possible as I forged my own way.

Tune in to hear more about what 2023 was like for me and what I’m looking forward to in 2024. How are you going to forge your own way this year?

Links and Resources:

Connect with Success Beyond the Lens:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Jessica Lynea Photography LLC

What You Need to Start Your Photography Career with Jessica Lynea

Jenn Bays — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0400

We are all in photography because we love it. Some of us choose to do it as a side hustle, while others jump in with both feet to make it our sole source of income. Jessica Lynea is one of those who decided to jump in and make it her whole career for the flexibility it provided her family with a new baby.

Now, after thirteen years of photography experience, Jessica has learned a wealth of knowledge that she wants to share with other wedding and engagement photographers. One of her key tips is to keep an organized and accessible portfolio to share with prospective clients and to help build vendor relationships.

When building your business from the ground up, Jessica also recommends investing in high-quality equipment for your photography type to give your business the boost it needs. If you’re starting out with low-end equipment to get your business off the ground, consider budgeting for better equipment to help you generate higher-quality photos and charge higher prices. You also have the option to rent equipment if the upfront investment is too costly.

The equipment is only half of your business, though! Major components to consider when building your business are marketing, branding, legalities, and client management. Jessica had to figure a lot of these things out on her own but quickly realized the importance of implementing a solid system to keep the business churning.

There is so much information packed into this episode if you’re wanting to launch a photography business or take your photography business from a side hustle to the main cash cow! Tune in today and hear more about Jessica’s story and the advice and wisdom she has to share. We know you’re going to love it!

Links and Resources:

Connect with Jessica:

Jessica’s Free Education

Success Beyond The Lens - https://successbeyondthelens.com/

Connect with Success Beyond the Lens:

@successbeyondthelens

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/successbeyondthelens/

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Picbabun - https://picbabun.com/successbeyondthelenspodcast

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

How to Have Successful Mini Sessions with Angelica Pompy

Jenn Bays — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0400

As you know, we’re in one of the busiest seasons of the year for photographers. Everyone is getting ready for the holidays by getting family photos done and planning out photos for spring. Wouldn't it be amazing if you had mini-sessions available to provide to your clients? If you’re wondering how to have successful mini-sessions in your photography business, Angelica Pompy is your girl.

Angelica has been practicing photography since 2009, but decided to launch her own business in 2017. Since then she has been able to leave corporate and focus solely on the work she loves.

How? Through gaining a true understanding of business, marketing, and creating seamless systems.

She has successfully used mini-sessions to bring in cash injections when needed and help her to find lifelong clients because she treats her mini-sessions as if they’re a full package.

Listen in as she shares how she markets her mini-sessions, what she’s done to set up systems around them, and why building an email list has been critical to the success of her business. Angelica is a marketing whiz and is able to impart her knowledge in a way that makes doing the things simple. You won’t want to miss out on this one.

Links and Resources:

Connect with Angelica:

Angelica Pompy

Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube

Pompy Portraits

Success Beyond The Lens - https://successbeyondthelens.com/

Connect with Success Beyond the Lens:

@successbeyondthelens

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/successbeyondthelens/

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Picbabun - https://picbabun.com/successbeyondthelenspodcast

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

The Importance of The Email List with Shannon Vondy

Jenn Bays — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Email is amazing! Some might consider this a strong stance to take, but when you can send one email and fill a program or sell out an offer, you’ll probably think the same. Here to share the importance of the email list is Shannon Vondy.

Shannon is a wedding and family photographer who had to think of creative ways to make money once 2020 hit. With one email she was able to make over $2,600 and all the things everyone always said about email being a key to cash suddenly clicked.

Now she’s running her photography business but has a whole separate business dedicated to helping small business owners make more money with their email lists. How? Through a membership, courses, and services.

One of my favorite pieces of Shannon’s advice is that email is what you want to make of it. Don’t want to sell everyday? Okay. Can only email twice a month? That’s fine. Think you’re a terrible writer and don’t want to write long emails? Then write short ones.

The people on your email list raised their hands because they want to hear from you. You get to decide what that looks like.

Listen in to hear more about Shannon, her background, why she’s so passionate about all things email marketing and her tips, tricks, and advice for getting started and growing.

Links and Resources:

Connect with Shannon:

Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok

Connect with Success Beyond the Lens:

Success Beyond The Lens - https://successbeyondthelens.com/

@successbeyondthelens

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/successbeyondthelens/

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Picbabun - https://picbabun.com/successbeyondthelenspodcast

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

Building a Nationwide Wedding Photography Business with Morgan Nagle

Jenn Bays — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0400

When you started your photography business did you have a vision of what it would look like years down the road? Or, did you realize you loved photography and wanted to make a little extra money? For Morgan Nagle, it was the former. She always knew she wanted to build a nationwide photography business, but even she didn’t realize she’d be going international.

Morgan started her business fully understanding that at some point, her business would be bigger than just her. She wanted to bring on a team with associate photographers and be able to take on clients all over the country. Over the last 18+ months, that’s exactly what she’s done.

She has ironed out the processes for bringing on new clients, setting them up with their photographers, and making sure that they feel taken care of all along the way. But it wasn’t easy. Reaching this iteration of her business vision has taken focus, planning, and a lot of time doing the “boring” things like setting up systems and processes.

But man has it been worth it.

Morgan is now able to spend time at home with her little one while taking on clients that she loves and building the business she’s always dreamed of. Listen in to hear her thoughts on the journey she’s taken to get to this point. She’s sharing the highs, the lows, and everything in between while offering up some amazing advice for other photographers looking to build a similar business.

Links and Resources:

Knowing When to Hire a Team with Morgan Nagle - https://successbeyondthelens.com/episode-28/

Connect with Morgan:

Heck Designs & Photography - https://www.heckdesignsandphotography.com/work-with-morgan

Instagram - http://instagram.com/heck_designs

Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/heckdesignsandphotography/

Connect with Success Beyond the Lens:

Success Beyond The Lens - https://successbeyondthelens.com/

@successbeyondthelens

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/successbeyondthelens/

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Picbabun - https://picbabun.com/successbeyondthelenspodcast

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

The Importance of Balance as a Photographer with Elaina Janes

Jenn Bays — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Elaina Janes, a portrait photographer based out of Kentucky, joins Jenn and Sybrina to share about the work-life balance she has created in her business.

Photography started as a hobby for Elaina and bloomed into a booming business over the course of 5 years, causing her to quit her full-time job on a whim. The following five years of business saw Elaina thrown into a state of struggling to keep her head above water in the face of the hustle culture.

The “dream” life that she had built ended up leaving her in a state of burnout and misery that had her looking for something to let go to give her some breathing room. And thus, she made the difficult decision to retire from wedding photography.

Reducing her workload to portraits and a 4-day work week has given her the freedom and flexibility to enjoy her business, offer amazing service, and still be able to exist outside of her business and enjoy traveling with her husband.

So what was her process, and how did she get there? Listen in to find out!

Links and Resources:

Connect with Elaina:

Elaina Janes Photography - https://elainajanes.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/elainajanesphoto

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/elainajanes/

Connect with Success Beyond the Lens:

Success Beyond The Lens - https://successbeyondthelens.com/

@successbeyondthelens - https://www.instagram.com/successbeyondthelens/

The Dos & Don’ts of Finance for Photographers with Katelyn Magnuson

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Picbabun - https://picbabun.com/successbeyondthelenspodcast

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

Using TikTok to Grow Your Photography Business with Heather Nixon

Jenn Bays — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Have you ever considered using TikTok to grow your photography business? Heather Nixon, a boudoir photographer out of Dallas, Texas, joins Jenn and Sybrina to share how she used TikTok to build a thriving business as she was just getting started. Listen in to learn how you can do the same.

Jenn has been following Heather for a while and absolutely loves her work. Literally, when she thinks of boudoir photography, Heather’s work is what comes to mind. And it’s all because Jenn found her on TikTok and loved the content she was creating.

What was it that drew her in?

Heather’s personality. The beauty of TikTok is that you get to highlight your personality while also sharing amazing tips, tricks, and advice for your potential clients. So what kind of content should you be creating?

Listen in to find out!

Links and Resources:

Connect with Heather Nixon:

Heather Nixon Photography - https://heathernixonphotography.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/heathernixonphotography/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeatherNixonPhotography

Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/HeatherNixonPhotography/

Connect with Success Beyond the Lens:

Success Beyond The Lens - https://successbeyondthelens.com/

@successbeyondthelens

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/successbeyondthelens/

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Picbabun - https://picbabun.com/successbeyondthelenspodcast

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

3 Strategies to Avoid Burnout in Your Business

Jenn Bays — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400

We all find ourselves in a season of burnout at some point in time, and I wanted to share some key points with you this week that will help you put up a nice burnout barrier to keep you from getting to that point. We will also chat about some ways to navigate burnout if that ship has sailed and you’re already knee-deep in the burnout experience.

One of the big things that can keep burnout at bay and help you steer your way out of burnout is to enforce boundaries. It is key that you set reasonable expectations with your clients surrounding communications that protect your peace and your time.

Another key to staving off burnout is saying “no” to the work that is not your favorite. If you’re not a fan of certain types of photography – keep a solid referral list, defer those clients to someone who prefers that type of photography, and keep your focus on the things that light you up.

Lastly, lean on systems and support teams. CRMs keep your information organized and help streamline your processes. This will take the exhaustion out of the grueling tasks of emails, invoices, and other things that can easily be automated. Delegating to your support teams helps you offload some of the backend work or the around-the-house work so that you can focus on the things that bring you joy.

Tune in today to hear more about these strategies and how you can implement them in your photography business. These strategies will keep you operating at your best while still delivering the best service possible to your clients, and I know you’re going to love them!

Links and Resources:

Connect with Success Beyond the Lens:

Success Beyond The Lens - https://successbeyondthelens.com/

@successbeyondthelens

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/successbeyondthelens/

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Picbabun - https://picbabun.com/successbeyondthelenspodcast

Grab your Boundaries Resources - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d6d09f19b5f4c0015d956e7

Understanding S-Corp Elections with Katelyn Magnuson

Jenn Bays — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Have you ever wondered whether or not you’re currently set up under the right tax entity? Guess what… you might not be! Also, it may benefit you WAY more in the end to go with a true tax entity rather than starting as a sole proprietor.

Katelyn Magnuson is a Fractional CFO and owner/founder of The Freelance CEO and she’s here to share her thoughts on all things numbers and tax entities. Listen in as she shares her top advice and why filing as an LLC sooner than later may mean saving tens of thousands of dollars in taxes.

Have you ever thought to yourself, “I LOVE numbers?” No? You’re not alone, but that has never been a problem for Katelyn. She’s always loved how knowing your numbers impacts achieving your goals. She’s built an entire firm of people who are dedicated to helping their clients reach all of their money goals… (and buy the latte too!)

You see, no matter if you’re building a business, starting a side gig, or trying to figure out retirement, you have to know where you’re at to get where you want to go. That’s where Katelyn and her team step in.

Listen as she shares her thoughts about why starting as an LLC is often the best thing, what it means to partner with your CFO, and why you should start with your goals, not what you’re currently making.

Katelyn is an amazing money-mind and this is one episode that you cannot afford to miss.

In This Episode:

[02:50] What does “CFO” stand for and what does a Freelance CFO do?

[06:09] Are you able to switch your financial goals mid-track?

[07:33] Do they only educate or do they also do the work itself?

[09:39] When you’re first starting, what kinds of entities can you set yourself up as?

[13:42] Can you be an S-Corp without being an entity?

[17:29] Do most people realize that they’d be better off filing as an LLC even if it is more up front?

[20:33] Learn more about how they advise their clients and why.

[21:32] Are there any cons to being an S-Corp?

[26:25] What other eligibility should you look at before becoming an S-Corp?

[29:55] Katelyn shares her best advice for business owners.

[31:37] Listen as Katelyn shares her three rapid fire answers about food, tools, and advice.

Links and Resources

Connect with Katelyn:

The Freelance CFO

Facebook | Instagram | TikTok

Find Success Beyond the Lens:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Mastering QuickBooks® 2022: The bestselling guide to bookkeeping and the QuickBooks Online accounting software, 3rd Edition

How to Escape Limiting Beliefs Around Numbers with Crystalynn Shelton

Jenn Bays — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Have you ever thought to yourself, “I’m not a numbers person?” If you have, you’re not alone. But what if I told you that you’re probably just not thinking of the right types of numbers? Crystalynn Shelton is a CPA and QuickBooks Certified Pro who was also not a numbers person, but she loves them now. Listen in to learn all about Crystalynn and how she’s helping small business owners love their numbers.

Crystalynn decided to become a CPA a junior in high school when she took a beginner bookkeeping course. Up to that point she hated all things numbers and math related, but bookkeeping was just… easy.

She went to school, got her degree, and later became a CPA. She joined the corporate world and started working night and day to manage the numbers for large corporations. But it wasn’t sustainable.

Instead of continuing to work incomprehensible hours, she started working with clients on the side and dove deep into the world of QuickBooks. She has now written multiple books to help business owners own their books and grow profitable businesses while also providing consulting and 1:1 services.

If you’ve been burying your head in the sand when it comes to your numbers, this is the episode you won’t want to miss. Leave your limiting beliefs about money and numbers behind and start owning your finances.

In This Episode:

[02:09] Learn more about Crystalynn and her business.

[05:26] Even if you don’t plan to manage your books, you need to understand how they work.

[07:24] So much of your bookkeeping can be automated.

[10:49] What sorts of businesses does she work with and is there a revenue cut off?

[12:16] At what point should you be looking for a bookkeeper in your business?

[12:48] What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

[13:56] Which questions should we ask to know that we’re finding a right fit for us?

[15:20] Crystalynn specializes in service-based business.

[16:39] In what ways does she support business owners in mastering their finances?

[21:36] How she approaches the accounting software conversation with her clients.

[25:26] Does payroll make managing the books harder?

[28:31] Do the rules change for different kinds of business entities?

[32:25] What did her days look like as she was building her business on the side of her corporate job?

[35:25] When she left her corporate job, did she already have a client base?

[39:40] Where do her interns go after they graduate?

[41:13] One of the biggest things business owners struggle with is a fear of numbers.

[44:08] What made her want to take the bookkeeping class in high school?

[45:40] Crystalynn shares her last bit of advice.

[49:47] Hear a horror story about vetting your bookkeeper.

[50:41] Crystalynn shares her favorites in the rapid-fire questions.

[54:27] Connect with Crystalynn and grab her resources.

Links and Resources

Find Crystalynn:

Crystalynn Shelton

Free Gifts - Your First 7 Days in QuickBooks

hello@crystalynnshelton.com

Find Success Beyond the Lens:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Your Business' Legal Health with Ray & Gabe of In|Flow

Jenn Bays — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Have you ever considered the legal health of your photography business? No? You should! Ray and Gabe of In|Flow are changing the face of small business legal help and you won’t want to miss it. Listen as they share their story and why they’re so passionate about supporting small businesses.

Ever thought that contracts were a nicety? They’re not!

Your contracts establish the legal relationship you plan to have with your clients. While that’s not the ONLY thing you should consider as you start a business… it’s certainly one of the most important.

Listen as Ray and Gabe of In|Flow dive into when you should seek out legal help, which questions you should be asking, and why their subscription model is legit the best bang for your buck.

Ray and Gabe know what they’re talking about. They’ve BOTH been involved in, or had family involved, in small business and they are passionate about making sure that small business owners have all the legal resources they need to grow and scale.

In This Episode:

[01:47] Welcome Ray and Gabe to the show and learn a bit about them.

[04:13] Knowing who your business is for upfront is so important.

[08:37] Being approachable is one of their core values because they want people to WANT to talk to their attorney proactively.

[11:17] Ray and Gabe share the services that they offer to their clients.

[13:36] At what point should aspiring business owners reach out to an attorney?

[17:05] It’s never too soon to seek legal advice for your business.

[19:21] Contracts are so important for businesses which is why they are one of Ray and Gabe’s most highly sought after services.

[21:36] Why you need to stay away from the Frankenstein Contract.

[23:24] What’s covered in their subscription model?

[26:20] Ray and Gabe share how contracts implicitly impact photographers.

[29:41] How do you know that your contract isn’t effective?

[34:13] Why you need to put EVERYTHING in the contract!

[37:42] It doesn’t matter if you have email communication, a contract will trump other correspondence.

[40:03] Ray and Gabe share their final tips and advice for creative business owners.

[41:41] Connect with Ray and Gabe.

[42:23] Ray and Gabe answer our rapid fire questions.

Links and Resources

Find Ray & Gabe:

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Collaborative Financial Group

Financial Planning with Jon Bebe

Jenn Bays — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Something all small business owners worry about but few understand how to implement is a solid financial plan with retirement in mind. Jon Bebe is the founder of Collaborative Financial Group and passionate about helping small business owners plan for the future.

Jon found his love of financial planning early on and saw a huge gap in the education and knowledge of small business owners. He was even told by some of the larger players that the reason they don’t pursue small business owners is because the pay day is simply too low.

Rather than leave this sector of the market to flounder, Jon started Collaborative Financial Group and now aims to educate and empower small business owners to start the financial planning conversation.

It doesn’t matter if you’re making huge sums of money or just getting started, having a financial plan is beyond important. Thinking about retirement is beyond important. These things are a must for ALL business owners.

And if you plan to someday offer retirement benefits as an employer, you need a trusted partner to help you set up the right kind of program for you and your employees.

Listen in as Jon shares his brilliant financial insights as well as why he recommends you start the conversation sooner than later. If you’ve been thinking about retirement, worried about, stressed over it, then listen in and start asking questions!

In This Episode:

[02:09] Welcome to the show Jon! Listen in to learn about him and his business.

[03:15] How did he start his business and get into working with small business owners?

[07:06] Why are retirement and investment accounts important for small business owners?

[09:47] When should small business owners consider retirement planning?

[12:24] Is there a threshold you have to cross to provide retirement benefits to your team?

[13:34] What kinds of retirement accounts are available to small business owners?

[17:27] Learn the benefits of working with someone to help set up your business investment accounts and benefits programs.

[21:30] Jon shares the driving light, or goal, of Collaborative Financial Group.

[25:26] How does Jon work with his clients and how can you get in touch with him?

[28:22] Jon’s best advice is to just start the conversation.

[29:36] Sybrina ends the show with a quick lightning round of questions.

Links and Resources:

Connect with Jon:

Email | LinkedIn

Connect with Success Beyond the Lens:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Meet Your New Host! Me & Sybrina

Jenn Bays — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Hey y’all! Big changes are coming for Success Beyond the Lens! The company AND the podcast. The first of those changes is that the Success Beyond the Lens Podcast is getting a new host! Listen in to meet Sybrina and hear what’s new on the horizon.

Sybrina joined Success Beyond the Lens way back in October of 2021. She was the very first full-time employee we brought on and NOW she’s taking an even bigger role in the company!

Starting with season six, Sybrina will take over as host of the Success Beyond the Lens Podcast. I’m not going anywhere, but with her looking to grow and hone some new skills, it seemed like the perfect time to work on some side projects that I’ve been passionate about.

Namely, starting a brand new podcast to come alongside my coaching and consulting business that I started at the end of last year. More to come on that! But in the meantime, listen in, learn more about Sybrina, and get ready for season 6 of the podcast.

We’re going to be digging deep into the financial and legal side of business and what you need to do, consider, and plan for as your business starts and grows.

In This Episode:

[02:43] The Success Beyond the Lens Podcast is getting a new host! Meet Sybrina!

[05:00] Jenn and Sybrina share how they met and what led to Sybrina working in the business.

[07:51] Sybrina shares what she’s most excited about in taking over the podcast.

[09:25] What are some of the areas Sybrina has grown so far?

[13:20] Which topics most intrigue Sybrina in the financial and legal space?

[14:44] Big updates for the Success Beyond the Lens podcast!

[15:44] PLUS - Jenn is launching a new podcast.

[16:52] What are some of Sybrina’s favorite business tools?

[19:56] Where would we go in Florida to hang out?

Links and Resources:

Animal Image Makers 2023 Conference - Use Code: SUCCESS2023 for $50 off registration!

Connect with Success Beyond the Lens:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

3 Tips for Checking Your Mental Health During the Busy Season

Jenn Bays — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Hey y’all! I don’t know about you but I fully believe we are IN the busy season! What I have found when these seasons come around is that I start to let balance slide. Which almost always negatively impacts my mental health. Listen as I share my top 3 tips for checking your mental health during the busy season!

First things first is understanding what life looks like normally. Make a list of things that typically start slipping when you get too busy. For me, I know things are going haywire when there are dishes everywhere, laundry undone, I struggle to get ready for the day, etc.

When things start slipping, red flags go up for me, but they also go up for my close friends and family and they can call me out on it.

Once you have that list, look at things you can delegate to others. Maybe you bring on house cleaners for the busy season, have someone do the yard, or have a meal service deliver food. You don’t have to have these things long term, but rather than deal with the busy season AND all of your normal responsibilities, instead get some help.

You can also start delegating within your business. Bring on a VA to help with calls and getting galleries out. Have someone help you edit.

There are so many ways to delegate bits and pieces so that not everything is landing on your shoulders alone.

Last but certainly not least, have an accountability partner. Have someone that you can check in with to be sure that you don’t lose sight of your goals and who can ask after your mental health.

These aren’t the only ways to maintain your mental health through the busy season but they are a fantastic start. What are some ways you manage your mental health during busier seasons in your business?

In This Episode:

[01:41] Don’t let your mental health take a backseat during this busy season. [02:14] Make a list of things that happen externally when your mental health is declining.

[04:36] What are things in your home that you can delegate to make things easier?

[06:24] Take stock of your day at the end of the day.

[10:27] Have an accountability partner!

[14:50] A quick recap of my tips for checking your mental health during the busy season.

Links and Resources:

Animal Image Makers 2023 Conference - Use Code: SUCCESS2023 for $50 off registration!

Connect with Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Nutrition Made Simple with Allison Tallman

Jenn Bays — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0400

In case you needed the reminder, this season is not about how to take more bubble baths to further your self care. We are digging into the important topics and Allison Tallman brings it. She’s helping to make nutrition simple and doable no matter how busy you find yourself. Listen in to hear her tips, tricks, advice, and more.

Allison realized she wanted to go into nutrition while she was in pre med in college. One of her absolute favorite classes was her nutrition class because it covered so much more than how to create a balanced plate. They went into the psychology behind food, why dieting as done in our culture today is bad, and so much more.

Fast-forward to five years ago and she knew she wanted to help more people on a larger scale. She started her business and began changing the lives of her clients and her audience. She truly believes that nutrition should be simple and doable for anyone.

Because you cannot power through your career, your business, and raising your babies if you aren’t taking care of the building blocks that make you, you.

We go into everything from why dieting and intermittent fasting are not the best solutions for busy, on-the-go females, why having a strong snack game can help you lose weight, and why balance not shame, blame, and guilt, is key.

If you’ve ever struggled with eating healthy or been battling it out with your scale, this is the episode you have to hear. Food is fuel. That is all. Listen in to learn more.

In This Episode:

[02:11] Learn more about Allison and her journey to entrepreneurship.

[04:25] When did she decide to specialize in nutrition and become a nutritionist?

[07:13] What’s the difference between using a “diet” and focusing on balanced eating?

[09:39] Her approach to changing mindset around food and eating.

[11:50] How can busy women integrate her processes into their lives?

[14:38] What to do when you feel so busy that even one thing seems impossible.

[15:40] Allison shares some of her nutrition hacks for busy women.

[17:50] Why breakfast is so important.

[19:36] One additional thing you can do if you find yourself skipping meals.

[22:17] Having a solid snack-game is super important.

[23:53] Allison answers Jenn’s rapid-fire questions.

[27:20] Connect with Allison.

Links and Resources:

Animal Image Makers 2023 Conference - Use Code: SUCCESS2023 for $50 off registration!

Connect with Allison:

Nourished Routes

Top 3 Snack Hacks

Facebook | Pinterist | Instagram | TikTok

Connect with Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Self-Care Planning as A Tool for Creating A Lifestyle of Self-Care with Alexis Overstreet

Jenn Bays — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0400

I cannot say this enough, self-care is not bubble baths, massages, and alone time. Those things are great but they do not make up the entirety of what it means to care for yourself. Alexis Overstreet is a licensed psychotherapist who has transitioned into helping business owners connect with their bodies and create real self-care plans to bolster their lifestyles.

Alexis began her career in clinical practice and absolutely loved what she did, but as things started shifting just before the pandemic, she realized her purpose was shifting. Beyond the mental load of the stress of the pandemic was this overarching trend toward a true neglect of the self that she was seeing in her patients and in herself.

So much of our anxiety and our stress stems from our bodily reaction to outside stressors, but if our body is not being well cared for, then it cannot properly respond. Additionally, this modern world is full of stressors. We are constantly in a state of fight or flight and our bodies can no longer instinctively determine when we are in harm’s way or simply reacting to something happening in the world.

All of these things have helped Alexis create a new way to approach health and wellness, by planning self-care as part of the overall lifestyle.

She shares so many amazing tips and advice for how to do this, but one of my favorites, and one that I didn’t realize impacted our overall mental health as much as it does, is hydration. Getting and staying properly hydrated makes a world of difference for our brains.

One way she recommends staying hydrated is having more than one water bottle on hand at all times. That way when one runs out, you always have a backup. And when you just can’t drink anymore water, remember that there are tons of foods out there that are naturally high in liquid.

Listen as she shares more about why she’s so passionate about true self-care and ways you can start implementing self-care planning in your own life. Which is your favorite tip or trick?

In This Episode:

[02:00] Meet Alexis Overstreet and listen as she shares a bit about her story.

[04:50] How you can plan your self-care as a tool for your lifestyle.

[07:39] Self-care is so much more than the skin deep things that the marketing gurus would have you believe.

[08:52] What can business owners do when they have stressors and triggers in the middle of their day?

[11:02] Stress is an internal reaction, not an external situation.

[12:57] Alexis shares how she works with her clients to become more aware of their own stress and stressors.

[15:20] Just because you’ve found your dream job, you’ll still experience stress.

[18:20] What constitutes overall hydration?

[19:46] Learn what fascia is and why we need to pay attention to it in self-care.

[21:40] Ways you can address stress and stressors in the middle of the day.

[24:43] Why having more than one water bottle around is one piece of self-care planning.

[27:22] Good foods to eat that increase your hydration.

[30:59] Take it easy on yourself. It’s hard work to run a business, so give yourself grace and know that health, wellness, and self-care is not all or nothing.

[32:39] Use the MELT system to help you release tension.

[33:24] One actionable tip to take away from this conversation is to pay attention to your body.

[34:23] Alexis answers the three rapid fire questions for the day.

[39:31] Connect with Alexis.

Links and Resources:

Animal Image Makers 2023 Conference - Use Code: SUCCESS2023 for $50 off registration!

Connect with Alexis:

Metaspace Wellness

Connect with Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Tangerine House of Design

Tips for A Successful Pet Photography Business with Lisa Asp

Jen Bays — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Lisa Asp has been making photographic art since 1995 but became a Certified Professional Photographer in 2010. In 2011 she decided that pet photography was what she really wanted to specialize in, and she hasn’t looked back. Listen as she shares her story, what she’s doing to help rescues in her area, and what makes the Animal Image Makers Conference the best in the industry.

Prior to specializing in pet photography, Lisa was truly a jack-of-all-trades photographer. She loved creating artistic photographs and sharing them with her clients. But she has always had a special place in her heart for animals. She started donating her time to professionally photograph pets at animal shelters and rescues and became instrumental in helping those animals find forever homes.

Little known fact, professionally photographed animals are significantly more likely to be adopted.

One of the other things Lisa loves is community and helping others in their own photography journeys. Which is how the Animal Image Makers Conference came to be. They started it in 2019 and almost sold out all of the tickets.

They have international speakers come in to share their knowledge and expertise, but most importantly of all, they’ve truly created a community for pet photographers to call home.

If you’ve been considering pet photography for your business, you will not want to miss out on all of the brilliant tips and tricks Lisa shares. Even if you’re NOT looking to add pet photography to your business, Lisa knows her stuff and the things she shares can be applied in so many ways.

Listen in to learn all about Lisa, the Animal Image Maker’s Conference, and what you need to do if you want to make pet photography your main offering.

In This Episode:

[02:12] Learn about Lisa and how she found herself delving into pet photography and education.

[05:20] How did the Animal Image Makers Conference come about?

[09:18] Lisa shares her tips for starting and running a successful pet photography business.

[17:35] What kind of advice does she have for dealing with dogs who aren’t well-behaved?

[20:24] She’s even photographed a pot-bellied pig.

[24:53] Her advice for shifting into pet photography from other niches.

[27:28] Is it harder to work with rescues or shelters?

[30:00] One actionable tip to go out and start your pet photography business today.

[33:41] Lisa answers the rapid fire questions.

[36:56] Connect with Lisa.

Links and Resources:

Animal Image Makers 2023 Conference - Use Code: SUCCESS2023 for $50 off registration!

Connect with Lisa:

Animal Image Makers

No Bones About It

Connect with Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

3 Tips on Fighting Self-Doubt

Jenn Bays — Wed, 15 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Have you ever found yourself spiraling in a pit of self-doubt? It happens. Trust me, I know. BUT there are definitely ways to get yourself out of that pit and back on track without completely derailing your business or health. Listen in to learn how!

So first things first, if you’re able to, take a break. When I’m having a ‘bad brain day’ I find that I end up being way less productive than normal. Typically my thoughts keep circling, I can’t stay on task, and overall my anxiety keeps me from making positive steps forward.

On these days, I have to take a break. Sometimes a break looks like a 20 minute walk or a long lunch. Sometimes it looks like shutting down for the day and being done until the next day. Either way, it doesn’t make sense to push through a less than productive day knowing that the results are going to be sub-par and take way longer than normal.

Sometimes our brains just need to reset and taking a break is a great way to do that.

Once you’ve taken that break and gotten your head in a better space, take some time to reflect. Why did you have a spiral in the first place? What was the root cause of the bad day?

Getting to the root cause of the problem is the first step in taking strides toward not having that same issue occur again.

Last, keep what I call ‘happy notes’ around at all times. When you’re having a bad day one of the best things to do is go back and reread all the notes that satisfied clients, customers, and partners have sent you over the years. Sometimes you just need to be reminded that you are awesome and you know what you’re doing!

Listen in to hear my top three tips on fighting self-doubt because it’s going to happen. Having the tools to come back better and stronger is the key to staying in the game!

In This Episode:

[01:41] As a business owner you will have to battle self-doubt at times.

[02:32] First, if you’re having a bad brain day, then you may just need to take a break.

[05:37] What it means to do a 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 grounding technique.

[07:55] Abide by your hard stop in your business and do something just for you.

[09:34] Tip number two, take a look at what is causing your self-doubt.

[14:31] If your self-doubt doesn’t have a current root, dig deeper.

[19:01] When you first realize that you have anxiety, finding the root may be more difficult. In this case, work instead on getting out of that anxious moment.

[21:22] Tip number three, keep happy notes all around you to refer to on those bad days.

[25:11] We’re humans and we’re going to make mistakes. That’s okay!

Links and Resources:

Animal Image Makers 2023 Conference - Use Code: SUCCESS2023 for $50 off registration!

Connect with Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Self Discipline with Alexis Hurley

Jenn Bays — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0400

One of the most important pieces of taking care of yourself is to literally take care of your body. And y’all, it does not have to be impossible. Listen as Alexis Hurley of Alexis Hurley Fit, LLC. shares how you can start making small changes in your daily life to reach those big health and fitness goals.

Believe it or not, Alexis was not always about the fitness. She even goes so far as to say that she was down right lazy. But it didn’t take long for her to realize that she needed to get back up and start doing something.

She’s been sharing her journey on Instagram for the last nine years, but when she had her little one, she started becoming very consistent in her posting. Then one week, she had several people reach out to her and tell her that what she was doing should be her career.

Now it is!

She’s sharing all the juicy details behind the importance of starting small and building on those wins and why macro prepping is so much easier than meal prepping. So often we find ourselves writing out a huge list of the things we have to accomplish when it comes to our health and wellness that just starting seems like too much.

Alexis will help you put the list down and realize that small wins every day end up turning into huge wins over time. Listen in to learn more!

In This Episode:

[02:11] Listen as Alexis shares a bit about herself,her life, and why she’s excited to be in her 30’s.

[05:02] How did she start her business and why a fitness business?

[08:15] It all happened quickly but it feels like she’s in the exact right place.

[10:08] Alexis shares her top three tips for making your health a priority this year and reaching your goals.

[13:40] Examples of specific goals to set that will help you reach your desired level of health and fitness.

[16:41] How to get started with a focus on nutrition and balanced eating.

[19:12] When did she realize that she had found the right path in starting her business?

[22:11] It is so much more impactful to be authentic rather than Insta-perfect and rigid.

[23:21] Alexis’s goal is that her clients understand how to build sustainable health rather than reaching a short term win.

[24:19] Her tips for eating better without spending hours in the kitchen. (Hint: it’s not meal prepping)

[27:08] Is there any aspect of her business that she would have done differently?

[29:34] Alexis gives her best advice for when you should start your own health journey.

[31:03] Lightning round with Alexis:

Fave business tool? Instagram
Favorite Quote? 2 Timothy 1:7
Where would we hang out in Elizabethtown? Starbucks and Iced Coffee!

[36:07] Connect with Alexis.

Links and Resources:

Animal Image Makers 2023 Conference - Use Code: SUCCESS2023 for $50 off registration!

Connect with Alexis:

Alexis on Instagram

Work with Alexis

Connect with Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Creating Confidence with Cristin Goss

Looking Ahead to Season 5

Jenn Bays — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0400

I am so excited about this season. We’re doing things a little bit differently for the next few episodes, but I think it’s so important for us to consider as we come out of the holidays and start looking at this new year.

Season 5 is all about health and wellness.

I’m not going to be over here sharing with you my fluffy self-care practices, though they may make an appearance, I’m talking about real health and wellness. I’m going to have guests join me to talk about healthy eating, moving your body, taking care of your mental health, and helping you to figure out what the best version of YOU looks and feels like.

Because for me, health and wellness is not a number on a scale or a pair of jeans. It’s mental fortitude, a strong body that supports me in life, and practices that help balance my life and business.

If that sounds good to you, then buckle up because this is going to be an amazing season!

In This Episode:

[02:11] Welcome to season 5 and all things health and wellness.

[03:39] What it means to take care of myself.

[06:04] Start thinking about what a well-rounded version of YOU looks like.

[08:14] Learn what I think of when I picture the best version of myself.

[08:55] What you can expect as we move into Season 5 of Success Beyond the Lens.

[09:35] I share where I’m at with my health and wellness right now and why I started practicing gratitude again.

[13:36] Working out is integral for my mind and body.

[15:28] It’s important to acknowledge that each season of your life means different things for your health and wellness.

[18:20] Take this season to challenge yourself to rethink your own wellness.

[21:36] A messy house makes me feel like I’m being attacked when I walk into it.

[22:46] Right now, take time to figure out where you can start to find balance again.

Links and Resources:

Animal Image Makers 2023 Conference - Use Code: SUCCESS2023 for $50 off registration!

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Top Four Episodes of 2022: Episode 12

Jenn Bays — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Can you believe it? This was the MOST listened to episode of the podcast… EVER! Which is why we’re re-releasing it! Listen in and let me know what you think!

Hiring an expert to help you with any aspect of your business is great, but only if you too know what it is they’re doing. This is especially true when it comes to the systems and software you’re using in your business. Listen in to learn why your systems are only as good as the knowledge you have of them.

I hear this complaint about various software all the time. So and so came in and set everything up but I have no idea how to use it. This is a problem! You should have an idea of how to use the software and use the system that’s been implemented.

If you’re setting up your systems yourself, take the time to dig into the resource libraries provided by the platform you’re using. They all have them. Many of them even have weekly webinars and various other ongoing resources you can attend to get better acquainted.

If you’re hiring an expert, be sure that they offer you the time to either sit down and show you how to use the platform and system OR that they provide you with videos walking you through various aspects.

Hands down, when your system breaks down, it’s almost 99% because of user error. There is usually some small step missed, or button unclicked. If you’ve never spent any time using the platform, you’ll never know when those things are missed.

Listen in to hear my tips for testing your systems, troubleshooting, and most importantly making sure you’re able to learn as much about your chosen platform from the expert you’ve chosen to hire.

The goal of these systems is to save you time and make you money, and every single one of them will do that for you. IF you take the time to learn how they work and what to do if something goes wrong.

Links and Resources:

Want to listen to the original episode? Here’s the link!

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Top Four Episodes of 2022: Episode 3

Jenn Bays — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0400

This episode with Natalie was so amazing. It was one of our TOP episodes for 2022. Listen in or listen again, this information never goes stale!

If you haven’t already established your mission, vision and values for your business, you won’t want to skip this episode. Natalie Gingrich, CEO and founder of The Ops Authority, joins me to share why establishing these from the start of your business is so important and how to be sure you reflect on them both professionally and personally.

Natalie spent over 15 years working at a fortune 150 company and while she loved her job, she needed time freedom and flexibility to spend more time with her family. Rather than continue on in the status quo, she took the leap and hasn’t often looked back.

One of the things propelling her into entrepreneurship was her intrinsic value based around her family. Her children were moving into some pretty exciting times in their lives and she didn’t want to miss it.

What came a little later for her was the mission behind her business and the vision to enact it. Natalie makes a great point that when you’re just starting your business, it’s important to dabble. Figure out what you like, what you don’t, and how you want to make an impact in the world.

Once you’ve found the clients or work that truly make working in and on your business a joy, then it’s time to start delving in and solidifying some of these key pieces. When done right, your mission, vision and values will act as guardrails for your business, keeping you in the lane you need to travel to reach your goals.

Natalie is brilliant. Success Beyond the Lens was born through one of her masterminds and it was her pointing out my love for working with and for photographers that got me thinking about how to shift into working exclusively in this niche.

Listen in to see how you can start putting together your mission, vision and values, when you should review them, and why it’s important to simply get something down.

Links and Resources:

Want to listen to the original episode? Here’s the link!

The Ops Authority Podcast

Find Natalie:

The Ops Authority

Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Top Four Episodes of 2022: Episode 2

Jenn Bays — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Ready to start making more money in your photography business? Listen or re-listen to this episode with Karinda K! She has all the tips and advice you need.

One thing that can make or break your photography business is your money mindset. That’s right. The stories you picked up from your parents and that you tell yourself about money absolutely impact how you operate your business. Listen as Karinda K shares all!

Karinda is an amazing photographer who is now selling multi-4 and 5 figure photography packages, but she admits, she wasn’t always comfortable with it. In fact, for a long time she wouldn’t even accept credit cards because she was so fearful that her work was putting someone in debt.

That wasn’t her story. It was a story she’d heard from her parents since she was little and she took it on as her reality.

When she started digging into her stories she realized that money is a tool. It is not evil, it has no emotion. It is there to be used to create impact in the world, the industry, and the family. No more. No less.

Listen as Karinda delves into her own story and why this money piece is so important. She shares tips and strategies for re-writing your own money story as well as the first steps she has her clients take as they begin digging into their own money beliefs.

Have you ever struggled with certain money issues in your business and you just can’t seem to figure out why? It could be you have your own money blocks.

Links and Resources

Want to listen to the original episode? Here’s the link!

Find Karinda:

Master Your Mind & Money

Pinterest | Instagram |Facebook | LinkedIn

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Top Four Episodes of 2022: Episode 1

Jenn Bays — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Ez provided some fantastic tips and advice! That’s why we’re re-releasing their episode. Listen in to learn how you can attract more diverse clients to your photography business.

Are you ready to create a safe space within your business for the LGBTQIA people in your life and community, but unsure of the best way to share it? Listens as Ez Powers shares their thoughts and advice about photographing these amazing communities.

Ez has had a love of photography since they were 8 and their grandfather put a camera in their hand. They traveled together all over the country photographing state parks and beautiful landmarks. Ever since then a love and passion for photography has simmered in Ez’s heart.

When they were 15 they even went to Kenya and helped bring awareness and help to people who were without water. They have known for years that photographs and representation means something very important.

As they grew in their craft, they realized what about photography really drew them in. They have now created an unapologetically representative business. Beyond that, they also give back with every full service package.

Here’s the deal. You have to go beyond advocating for the LGBTQIA community. You have to understand them deeply and without any bias or subjectivity. Ez shares the power of using the right words and moving past acceptance and into understanding.

Keep reading for some amazing resources if you are not ready to go deeper with this community but know other photographers who are! You’ll definitely want to take notes during this one!

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HSvbAQ5W5ghY9um76g-6E8_gb65KT5fU_qVzGoA7Y9Q/edit#

Links and Resources:

Want to listen to the original episode? Here’s the link!

Jeffrey Marsh - TikTok

Evey Winters

Transnormativity

Success Beyond The Lens: 2022 Recap

Jenn Bays — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 05:00:00 -0400

It’s that time again. Time to recap the year as we head into… WHAT?! End of year recap in September? I promise there’s a reason for it and I’m sharing it all. Listen in to this very last Success Beyond the Lens episode for 2022 and learn what to expect for the business and podcast going forward!

As you know, moving into the fall and winter seasons, the photography world goes bananas. For many photographers, this is the busiest time of year, which means it’s also my busiest time of year.

What I have found is that trying to juggle it all while still providing the best level of service and attention to our clients is not productive. So this year, we’re pausing new episodes of the podcast before we hit the busy season and we’ll be back in January.

But that’s not what this episode is all about. No! You’re here to learn all about the ins and outs and ups and downs that we’ve faced so far in 2022.

To say that this year has been a year of growth would be an understatement. Not just a year of growth in revenue, but also a year of growth both personally and professionally for me.

This year I’ve truly gone from being in my business and doing the client work, to running my business, building a team, and helping to support them in providing fantastic service to our clients. If you’ve ever hired any team members ever, you know what a huge shift that is.

Listen as I share how this shift has impacted my work days as well as my personal life and why it’s amazing but also unsettling at the same time. If you’re experiencing growth in your business, know that discomfort is normal and it really is a catalyst for great things to come.

See you in 2023!

In This Episode:

[01:04] I know it’s crazy to talk about doing a 2022 wrap up at the end of September.

[01:47] Listen as I share why I’m doing it now instead of later.

[02:43] Let’s chat about everything that’s happened in 2022.

[06:16] I realized that I needed to make some changes to free up some space to run my business.

[08:36] Now I have more time in my days than I’ve ever had in my business and it feels weird.

[11:47] I’ve also made time to do things I like to do.

[13:13] The hardest thing has been figuring out how to manage the new dynamics of my business.

[17:24] “Make sure you are not making your business your life.”

[19:00] I’ll see you in January.

Links and Resources: Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How To Move From Corporate to Entrepreneurship with Jodie Brim

The Incredible Story of Jodie Brim Part 2

Jenn Bays — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 05:00:03 -0400

In the last episode, Jodie Brim shared the story behind her business and how she got to where she is today. We’re continuing the conversation with all the things she’s done to build in balance while growing. There will be seasons of hustle but you should not be hustling 100% of the time.

One of the very first things Jodie did when she was able was to outsource her household stuff. Everything from cleaning to laundry to cooking is done by others because she hasn’t had the time to run her business, be with her family and take care of the day to day drudgery.

I’ve talked about it before myself. Before I outsourced a single thing in my business, I outsourced my house cleaning. Sometimes taking care of your responsibilities at home is just the ticket for opening up the time and space you need during your day to make huge leaps in business.

Once she got her home situated, she began outsourcing her editing. Editing is so time consuming and for Jodie, while that part is necessary, spending time with her clients and preparing for shoots is more valuable than doing the nitty gritty of editing.

There are so many little steps that you can take while building your business to set yourself up for success, but Jodie's biggest tip, beyond even outsourcing, is to always know your numbers. If you don’t know your numbers you really have no clue what your business can and cannot afford.

Then when your numbers are straight, “always be marketing!”

Need more amazing tips? Listen to the second part of “The Incredible Story of Jodie Brim” and hear them all. You won’t be disappointed.

In This Episode:

[00:52] Jodie shares some of the pivotal changes she’s implemented in her business.

[03:26] Outsource. Outsource. Outsource.

[06:06] But not just in your business. Outsource things in your personal life too.

[09:24] Which task should be outsourced first.

[11:46] New things she is working on for the future.

[17:14] How to recognize burnout and what to do to keep from getting to that point.

[22:07] Her actionable tips for you.

[24:45] Why her favorite bible verse is Psalms 37:4.

[25:20] Her favorite business tool is Dubsado.

[26:04] She says she would take me to Eastern Standard for a drink if I came to Winston-Salem.

Links and Resources:

Find Jodie:

Jodie Brim Creative

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How To Move From Corporate to Entrepreneurship with Jodie Brim

The Incredible Story of Jodie Brim Part 1

Jenn Bays — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 05:00:17 -0400

There are very few people in my life that I admire and respect in the way that I do the Incredible Jodie Brim. She has built a rock solid business after leaving a very lucrative corporate career while also dealing with unbelievable hardship in her life. Listen in to hear all about how she’s done it and why her faith has been pivotal in surviving the hard times.

Jodie didn’t set out to be a photographer. She always loved photography however. In fact, she was one of those kids who walked around with her disposable camera documenting life and the world around her. But photography as a business?

Instead she went to school and got her Masters in Public Service. She originally wanted to work in government for a non-profit changing the world that way. Instead she went into corporate and she and her husband socked away the majority of their sizable income.

To say that they lived below their means would be an understatement as they were able to pay over $100,000 in debt in just one year. But they did it all for a reason. The goal was to create a foundation for the life they wanted to live together.

Now that life includes a wildly successful photography business for Jodie. But to say that it was easy would be utterly wrong. In 2015 her husband was diagnosed with an extremely rare auto-immune disorder that left him completely immobile.

They kept their faith strong and their spirits high however and now their lives have taken a much deserved turn. Listen to this first part of our conversation all about Jodie’s story, the birth of her business, and its evolution over the years.

Tune in to the next episode to learn all of Jodie’s advice for new photographers who are looking to build photography businesses of their own.

In This Episode:

[03:01] Welcome back to the show, Jodie!

[04:44] She talks about starting her business and feeling confused and lost.

[09:41] Why photography was the business for her.

[12:20] Listen as she discusses what happened in 2015 that changed her life completely.

[17:24] How she got a handle on her life two years after everything changed.

[19:15] Her faith pulled her through.

[20:43] What a day in her life looked like when she was raising her daughter and going to the hospital everyday to be with her husband.

[26:41] “Life can be hard at times but we can do hard things.”

Links and Resources:

Find Jodie:

Jodie Brim Creative

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Quitter: Closing the Gap Between Your Day Job & Your Dream Job by John Acuff

From Teacher to Photographer with Johanna Hribal

Jenn Bays — Thu, 08 Sep 2022 18:30:54 -0400

For so many people, becoming an entrepreneur seems like a big, scary leap. For Johanna Hribal, it was the key to defeating anxiety and regaining her focus, confidence, and sanity. Listen as she shares why she left behind a career in teaching to start, grow, and scale her very own photography business.

Johanna wasn’t just teaching. She holds a Masters in Education and felt called to do the work. But when Covid struck her niggling nudges of anxiety turned into a full blown problem. At first she didn’t even realize her feelings of dread were anxiety related, but when she ended her contract, it was like a huge boulder being lifted from her shoulders.

She didn’t leave on a whim though. Johanna had been slowly but effectively building her photography business on the side of her teaching career. Now she’s able to do it full time, her way.

Her work weeks look very different from the way they did as a teacher. She schedules in time for herself and to get out into the world. Plus she has been able to truly live her life each and every day.

How has she done it? Through elevating her skills, working on her systems, and setting clear and attainable boundaries for herself and her clients.

Listen as Johanna shares her story and her advice for anyone nervous about stepping out on the entrepreneurial limb. It’s not easy. To this day she still feels guilt for leaving behind a profession that’s in need of amazing people. But she did what she had to do for herself, her life, and her family.

In This Episode:

[01:46] Welcome to the show, Johanna!

[02:18] She shares her background and why she decided to start her own business.

[06:20] Listen as Johanna talks about her favorite travel moments.

[13:06] What she’s done to help alleviate her mental health issues.

[19:12] Techniques she uses to help manage her anxiety.

[22:17] Listen as Johanna discusses her boundaries and how she enforces them with clients.

[28:53] One actionable tip for anyone who is contemplating making their hobby a career.

[31:31] Dubsado and Calendly are her two favorite business tools.

[31:55] “You can never have too much sky.” is her favorite quote.

[32:41] She shares where she would take me for a drink if I were to visit Louisville.

[33:48] Connect with Johanna.

Links and Resources:

Find Johanna:

Frames + Letters Photography

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Photography As A Fourth Career with Evie Richards Cashman

Jenn Bays — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 05:00:51 -0400

If you’ve ever thought to yourself, “It’s too late for me to do that” or “I’m too old” then you’re going to want to listen in. Evie Richards-Cashmanis has started out in her fourth career and it may just be the best one yet. Listen in to hear all about her story and why she’s beating back the negative self-talk to pursue her passion.

Evie has been a hobby photographer since she was a young girl, but life and financial needs took her in a different direction. She’s never been afraid of a challenge though.

At the age of 50 she decided to go to school to become a pharmacist. She not only completed her degree but she also worked in the field for many years. During that time her love of photography intersected with a growing demand for her work.

She decided then to start studying her craft. After several years of doing any and all photography work, she began specializing.

At the age of 70 she stepped fully into building her photography business and has no intention of looking back. Does she have that little voice in her head telling her she can’t do this? Of course! But she’s surrounding herself with teachers and mentors that help to beat the demons back.

Evie is a true inspiration to keep pursuing your passions. Listen in to hear her tell it all.

In This Episode:

[01:33] Welcome to the show, Evie!

[02:04] Evie shares how long she has been doing photography.

[04:05] Learn what type of photography she specializes in and what it took to launch her business.

[10:30] Her previous position allowed her to network and get side jobs for photography.

[12:10] Evie discusses what frustrated her when starting her business.

[14:57] Why she hired a business coach.

[19:02] Evie talks about a job she was hired to do that ended up being much bigger than planned.

[22:13] She shares some advice for the listeners.

[24:50] Evie’s favorite business tools are her camera and HoneyBook.

[25:18] If I was meeting Evie for a drink we would go to the beach and get frozen drinks.

[26:02] Connect with Evie.

Links and Resources: Find Evie:

ERC Photography

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Creating Confidence with Cristin Goss

Jenn Bays — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 05:00:23 -0400

Not many people know this, but I have multiple personalities…

Just kidding! What I have is a propensity to name the different sides of myself. For instance, when I’m super productive, Productive Polly comes out. For the longest time, my default mode of being has been mired in anxiety and a lack of confidence.

But it’s all changing!

That fact, the fact that it’s all changing, was one of the reasons why I was so excited to get to chat with Cristin Goss. Cristin is the owner and founder of Goss Boss and she’s made it her mission to help women find their confidence and feel more comfortable in their skin.

Even when she hasn’t always been able to do the same.

For Cristin, the struggle to find confidence and self-acceptance all started when she was a child. She never looked like the other girls and she never felt as if she belonged. Just as she was finding herself and her place in the world, her entire life changed.

Those deeply profound life changes, along with the stress and uncertainty of the pandemic, started Cristin on the path of not only finding herself, but also loving herself.

Listen as Cristin shares her story and how her personal journey has so irrevocably impacted her business and growth. Cristin is so much fun to talk to and we’re both baring it all for this one, so get ready to have a lot of laughs and many moments of personal introspection.

In This Episode:

[01:42] Welcome to the show, Cristin!

[04:55] We chat about how much our businesses have grown and changed since we met.

[06:51] Learning how to create confidence as a business owner has been a key in my business.

[08:17] Cristin shares her journey of becoming a confident person in her business and personal life.

[16:31] What happened when she made the decision to stop leaning into the negative thoughts in her head?

[20:56] I share what I did to change the dialogue in my head.

[24:30] Cristin discusses Katie Sturino and the practices she implemented.

[27:11] Three key areas where her clients struggle in life and relationships, business and career and body image.

[33:07] Things to get you back on track when you have a bad head day.

[39:39] Connecting with others on a same or similar journey is extremely important.

[43:24] Cristin shares some affirmations that are very meaningful to her.

[45:12] She talks about where we would go in Pittsburgh for a drink.

Links and Resources:

Katie Sturino

Find Cristin:

Cristin Goss

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

My Story: Part Two

Jenn Bays — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 05:00:24 -0400

If you’ve been in business for long, you know that it’s not all cupcakes and rainbows. Every day isn’t about living your best life and singing in the rain. In fact, more often than not, your business grows and develops directly proportional to your own personal growth and development.

Mine has been no different.

In the episode preceding this one I shared all about the beginning of my story. But then in 2020 my business like so many others experienced a huge shift that I wasn’t necessarily ready for at the time.

The “panini” brought up a lot of personal baggage that I’d been holding onto for many many years and they highlighted behaviors that I’d held over from my corporate life. The same corporate behaviors that I created my business to escape.

Listen as I share where the business is today and why it was a couple of personal decisions that I made for myself that led to massive growth. This episode isn’t as fun and upbeat as some of my other episodes but it’s real, raw, and extremely honest. Which is all I hope to be for you as you’re building your own businesses!

In This Episode:

[03:01] When my business started to feel the pressure of Covid, I dove into the Honeybook and Dubsado setups to keep things afloat.

[04:22] At this time I wasn’t physically or mentally in a good place.

[05:08] I atribute a few different things that I did to where the business is today.

[05:29] In the fall of 2020 I reached out to a therapist for help.

[06:44] Six months later I hired a personal trainer.

[08:07] The business went crazy in 2021 and we reached consecutive five figure months.

[11:15] I would agonize over small things in every aspect of my life.

[12:39] I don’t believe that the business would be where it is now if I hadn’t hired a therapist to face the scary boxes I had in place.

[14:45] I challenged myself to take a kickboxing class and now I am an instructor.

[16:30] With this podcast I want to have honest conversations that allow you to run a successful business.

[19:04] You can do anything you put your mind to.

[20:07] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources: Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

My Story: Part One

Jenn Bays — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 05:00:11 -0400

When it comes down to it, we’re all trying to tell our stories. For photographers, the goal is to tell their client’s story in a series of pictures, but what about the story behind their own business? This season I’m sharing the story behind my business and the businesses of other amazing photographers just like you!

Did you know that telling your own story is kind of hard? It’s hard to sit down in front of a mic and just start talking all about yourself. Especially if you’re not used to talking about yourself as a normal part of everyday life.

I found it to be almost impossible. In fact, I recorded part II of this little mini-series and realized that something was missing. So what did I do? I called in my amazing podcast manager Kayla Wells to help me share my story.

Listen in as we chat about how I got started, when I knew that I only wanted to work with photographers and how Covid (or the panorama) helped propel my business forward in ways I could have never imagined.

How did you start your business? Why did you start your business? It’s time to share your story.

In This Episode:

[01:24] On this first episode of season 4, I am being interviewed by my Podcast Manager Kayla Wells.

[02:18] I share how I got started in the virtual entrepreneurial world.

[03:11] I started my own business so that I would have the flexibility of my time.

[05:25] Listen as I talk about how I found out about the virtual world.

[07:44] When I started out I did anything people would pay me to do like, shownotes, transcription, web design and graphics.

[09:58] My first photography had me doing everything except taking photographs for her company.

[11:18] I discuss the evolution of my company from doing anything to niching down to photographers.

[13:58] My passion is helping photographers to grow their businesses, I share how I helped them find what worked for them.

[18:48] I talk about the timeline to where I am today.

[22:06] During the pandemic in 2020 I lost 80% of my business.

[25:30] In October of 2020 I took two steps that literally changed everything.

[30:18] I don’t know if I would have the business I have today if the pandemic hadn’t happened.

[32:50] How enforcing my boundaries has allowed me to have “me” time, time with my family and grow my business.

[38:57] It has allowed me time to work on a big project for the fall and improve the foundation of the business.

[42:28] Now that you know where it all started, listen to part 2 to hear the changes I’ve made for the business going forward.

Links and Resources: Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Your System is Only as Good as The Knowledge You Have of It

Jenn Bays — Wed, 25 May 2022 05:00:46 -0400

In This Episode:

[02:24] Hiring an expert to get your system up and running is great, as long as you know how to operate it once it’s done.

[04:15] If you learn by doing, create your lead contact form, fill it out and go through the workflows yourself.

[07:20] If you learn by watching, the platforms have tons of resources out there to help you.

[10:19] You need a basic knowledge of how to run your platform so you can be more successful with it.

[12:56] I recommend spending a few hours running through your systems to see what they look like.

[15:04] The more time you spend in these systems playing around the better you understand them.

[15:44] Your homework.

[19:41] I am so excited about season 4.

Links and Resources: Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How To Write A 20 Minute Newsletter with Liz Wilcox

Jenn Bays — Wed, 18 May 2022 05:00:57 -0400

Have you ever heard the saying that email is dead or dying? Every couple of years marketing gurus all over the place decide that email is just no longer working. Every couple years those same gurus are proven wrong. Listen as Liz Wilcox not only shares how to write a 20 minute newsletter but why it’s so important you start now.

Liz has done it all. In fact, she started her freelancing career on Craigslist of all places and in 2016 she found her way to blogging. What she quickly realized was that email marketing is what truly made her freelancer’s heart happy.

Now she helps turn bloggers into business owners by creating personality driven email copy that creates adoring fans and repeat customers.

Listen as Liz breaks down her 20 minute newsletter framework and shares exactly how you as a photographer can and should integrate email marketing into your business.

Want a sneak peak at one myth we’re busting? (It’s not about when you send your newsletter… success is found in the way you handle your introduction in the welcome sequence!)

Intrigued? Listen in to hear it all!

In This Episode:

[01:30] Welcome to the show, Liz!

[03:14] How she developed the simple newsletter framework she uses.

[05:00] The steps in creating the newsletter.

[08:21] Listen as Liz recaps the three steps to creating a 20 minute newsletter.

[09:01] “People don’t buy when you are selling, they buy when they are ready.”

[10:37] How often you should put out a newsletter.

[14:22] The importance of onboarding and getting clients your email welcome sequence.

[16:38] Think about what your vision is for your clients, what do you want them to get out of the photos.

[18:10] Share your values in your onboarding emails.

[22:36] Questions you should ask yourself when writing emails and newsletters.

[23:45] Where you can get her free email welcome sequence and newsletter examples.

[25:15] What is a welcome sequence?

[31:13] Her favorite business tools are Ecamm Live and Giphy.com.

[33:59] She shares her favorite quotes.

[35:45] We talk about where we would go and what we would drink if I went to Destin, Florida.

[37:52] Find out where to hang out with Liz.

Links and Resources:

Find Liz:

Liz Wilcox

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

The Dreamer’s Manual Podcast

Hiring Isn't A Magic Bullet with Julie Calcote

Jenn Bays — Wed, 11 May 2022 05:00:35 -0400

As your business grows, you may wonder, “Is now the time to hire?” Here to help answer that question is Julie Calcote. Julie is an online business manager for creatives with a specialty in helping business owners make fantastic hiring decisions. Hiring however, is not a magic bullet and Julie’s here to tell us why.

First things first, do you know where you spend your time? Not just your time working, but your time period. If you’re sitting there trying to piece together the last couple of hours of your day, then you need to do a time study. (Julie has some amazing resources for that here!)

Once you know where you’re spending your time, you’ll have a better idea of where you should start the hiring process. Interestingly enough, rarely is the first “right” hire someone for your business.

As busy moms and business owners, the first “right” hire is someone to help us manage some part of our household tasks. You’ll find out your first right hire completing the time study.

But what’s next? You can’t just hire someone and then leave them to their own devices. You need to know what specifically you’re hiring them for and then provide them with the tools they’ll need to succeed.

Listen as Julie shares her tips for creating SOPs before you ever need them, ways to manage your expectations when you finally do hire someone for your business, and what you should look for as you begin the process for hiring.

This conversation was truly magical and filled with some amazing advice for anyone looking to hire in their business. If that’s you, take a listen before you start the process.

In This Episode:

[02:02] Welcome to the show, Julie!

[04:26] Why hiring isn’t a magic bullet.

[07:31] She encourages people to write down processes, and how to look at the big picture.

[11:20] Julie shares how valuable it is to have videos of the processes you have set up.

[14:36] Learn the importance of having someone on your team that looks at things differently than you do.

[19:00] Listen as Julie discusses doing a time study that will allow you to figure out where in business and life it is that you need help.

[22:31] Tools you can use for the time study.

[23:41] Where she looks to hire someone.

[27:04] The best way to determine a fair rate for hiring.

[30:32] Tips for hiring successfully.

[31:38] Her favorite business tool is FG Funnels.

[32:46] She recites her favorite quote.

[33:36] We talk about where we would go in Anchorage to get a drink.

Links and Resources: Find Julie:

Julie Calcote

Free Training

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How To Incorporate Your Branding In Your Systems

Jenn Bays — Wed, 04 May 2022 05:00:53 -0400

I cannot say it enough, your brand is the key to attracting the clients you WANT to work with. But it doesn’t stop at your website and social media. All of the systems you use in your business need to present the same energy and experience. Listen in to learn how to incorporate your branding into your systems!

Okay, let’s make up a brand right fast so I can better explain this concept. Imagine that you are an adventurous wedding photographer who loves to shoot in out of the way places for people dead set on an unconventional wedding.

All of your social media posts are fun, energetic, and capture the essence of the clients you want to attract and they all lead back to your website. You don’t want your website to then reflect a super formal, black tie affair type brand. It needs to be fun and energetic, just like your social media posts.

Let’s take that one step further. So you’ve got these beautiful social posts, leading to a really fun website, and your ideal client decides to fill out your contact form. What does the email say that they receive once they’ve filled it out?

I’m going to assume (because if you’re listening then you KNOW that an email needs to go out) that an email is in fact set to go out to anyone who fills out your form. While a super short email that lets your ideal client know that you’ve received their inquiry and will get back to them soon is sufficient, it’s not furthering their experience.

That email should be just as energetic and informative as all the other touch points they’ve seen so far.

Want to learn more? Listen in to hear all of my tips for making sure your systems are just as branded as your social media and website and why it’s so important.

In This Episode:

[01:29] I’m talking about the different systems in your business.

[02:29] When someone visits your social media pages you should show them the same person that is presented in your website.

[04:30] Consistency throughout your systems is key.

[06:02] Your branding will attract the clients you want but it will also repel the clients you don’t.

[08:10] Make sure the backend of your business is as branded and fluid as the front end.

[10:28] When someone inquires, make sure you give them something back.

[12:37] The more your branding is on point from A to Z the better experience your clients will have.

[14:16] I share your actionable tip for this week.

[16:06] Come find me on Instagram!

Links and Resources: Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How To Stay True To Yourself When You Feel Like A Failure with Rohana Olson

Jenn Bays — Wed, 27 Apr 2022 05:00:16 -0400

Our society has a very negative view of failure and its role in our lives. For Rohana Olson, failure has to happen in order to find success. In fact, without failure it’s almost impossible to find your true self. Listen in as we chat about some of the failures she’s experienced in life and business and how she has grown through each.

Rohana loves creating timeless images that depict the simple, every day beauty of love and marriage. It all started with the epic love of her grandparents. They were married for 71 years and were a shining example of love and marriage, but they had very few pictures of their lives together.

She is passionate about capturing those little moments for her clients so that their love will shine through the years.

But her vision doesn’t always land with her clients. Listen as she shares one specific moment and what she did to make sure her clients were happy with the end result. She says it herself, she’s no stranger to failure in life and business.

However, if she’d never failed, she would have never learned and she wouldn’t be where she is today. She’s sharing all of her nuggets of wisdom and you won’t want to miss them.

In This Episode:

[02:05] Welcome to the show, Rohana!

[03:18] She discusses how to handle failures in your business.

[04:43] “Courage is grace under pressure.” - Ernest Hemmingway.

[06:22] Rohana talks about the importance of clients understanding your contract.

[08:13] She shares a time when she had a failure with a client and how she recovered from it.

[11:28] “Failure has to happen to find success.”

[14:25] Listen as Rohana talks about her client's love box.

[19:17] She discusses some gaps in her business and how she fixed the issues.

[21:48] When you are going through conflict, curate what you listen to and hear.

[27:06] Rohana gives some tips on how to recover from a mistake.

[28:46] HoneyBook and Quick Books are her two favorite business tools.

[29:30] She shares where she would take me for coffee if I came to her neck in the woods.

[31:03] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources: Find Rohana:

Rohana Olson Photography

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Success Beyond The Lens - Mission, Vision and Values with Natalie Gingrich

How Your Brand Story Helps Shape Your Mission, Vision and Values

Jenn Bays — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 05:00:35 -0400

What is your brand story? How did your business come about? Why are you so passionate about the type of photography you shoot? All of this plays a huge role in how your brand story helps shape your mission, vision, and values.

Listen in as I share why and how you can synthesize your experience and beliefs into an amazing framework for making business decisions.

For me, I started my business because I didn’t want my time beholden to anyone else anymore. I wanted to be there for my family and build something that was important to me. That need to have time-freedom and autonomy over my day to day activities plays a huge role in my business.

In fact, when I start working with clients, my goal is to help them find that balance between business and family. I don’t believe in having periods of rest. Rest should be the norm. I believe that you have periods of hustle. It’s important that I help my clients realize these differences and then make them happen in their businesses.

So what kinds of experiences play a part in determining your mission, vision and values? Listen in to hear all of the examples and learn how to begin writing your own.

In This Episode:

[01:36] Learn how your brand story helps shape your mission, vision and values.

[03:21] Look back on the story of why you started your business, what is your why?

[05:21] Listen as I discuss why boudoir photography is my favorite type of photography and what my story would be if I were this type of photographer.

[08:48] How personal experiences can shape your story.

[14:35] A value that is important to me and my company is making it a safe place for everyone.

[16:38] My mission is to help transform the perspective of 500 women in the next five years.

[17:22] Here’s your homework for the week.

Links and Resources:

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

The Ops Authority Podcast

Mission, Vision and Values with Natalie Gingrich

Jenn Bays — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 05:00:26 -0400

Listen in to see how you can start putting together your mission, vision and values, when you should review them, and why it’s important to simply get something down.

In This Episode:

[01:25] Welcome to the show, Natalie!

[02:08] Listen as Natalie shares her journey to where she is today.

[05:40] What it took to figure out where she wanted to take her business.

[09:49] She discusses what she means by picking your mission statement.

[13:56] When your mission statement reflects you, it makes you more authentic.

[17:44] Why a vision statement is important both in your business and personal life.

[25:40] The most important thing for your business is having core values.

[26:16] Natalie shares an exercise she uses to come up with her core values.

[32:47] She uses mission, vision and values as guardrails to guide her business.

[37:23] Her favorite business tool is Voxer.

[38:05] “Yes, you can” is her favorite motto.

[38:28] Natalie tells me where we would go to grab drinks in San Antonio, TX.

[39:18] Connect with Natalie.

Links and Resources: Find Natalie:

The Ops Authority

Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How To Use Your Brand Story In Your Marketing

Jenn Bays — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 05:00:20 -0400

We all have a story. We had a reason for starting our businesses that stems from some sort of life experience. We were inspired based on our own lives to create change in the world. So, how do you use that story, your brand story, in your marketing? Listen in to find out!

I’ve shared about my story several times on the podcast before, but what I haven’t shared is how that story informs almost all of my day to day decisions. I left corporate after being treated pretty terribly by my boss and my company while I was out on maternity leave.

Finally, I reached that period where I could take no more and I vowed when I started my business that it would not take me away from my family. I didn’t want to live my life chained to my desk and unable to take a break for fear of being reprimanded.

That’s why when I work with clients my goal is to find ways to give them time off. No one should work 24/7/365. You should have systems, processes, and automations in place to help take the load off when you are away living your life with your family.

The passion I have for helping my clients reach that point is fueled by my underlying brand story. So what’s your brand story? What types of sessions are you passionate about capturing? Now consider why you have that passion.

Listen in to learn more about how to incorporate your brand story in your marketing and why it’s so important to share!

In This Episode:

[01:15] Welcome to season 3!

[01:43] My brand story and how it ties into my business.

[02:32] I help my clients run a business that is not dependent on them 24/7.

[04:14] What gets you excited about your business?

[06:55] Share your brand story with your clients.

[08:23] Are you ready to grow your business? I’m excited to announce my 30 day consultation packages.

[09:30] Share how far you’ve come in your journey.

[13:03] If you are not comfortable sharing vulnerable pieces of yourself, then don’t.

[15:56] Marketing is all about connection. It’s about finding the people you are excited to work with.

Links and Resources:

Consultation Package

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

The Pet Photographers Podcast Episode S11E08 - The Easy Pinterest Strategy for Photographers with Jenn Bays

How To Incorporate Pets Into Your Studio Offerings with The Pet Photographers Club

Jenn Bays — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 16:29:23 -0400

Have you ever considered adding pet photography to your offers? Kirstie and Caitlin of The Pet Photographers Club join me to share their stories and why they’re passionate about pet photography. They are the perfect people to help you decide if pet photography is for you.

Kirstie originally hired Caitlin to do photographs of her own pet. What is normally a 1 hour appointment turned into over 4 hours and they knew they’d found their new best friends. They were both already photographers and they got stuck in talking shop and enjoying each other’s company.

Their friendship continued to grow and they realized that the things they were talking about were likely things others in their field were talking about. Instead of keeping their conversations to themselves, they started recording their podcast which has now grown into a membership.

They love helping other pet photographers to elevate their skills while giving them a community to share their woes and wins.

Listen in to hear all their amazing advice and maybe decide if pet photography is for you. These two were a blast to talk to, obviously since this is one of the longest episodes we’ve ever shared. So tell me, do you want to add in pet photography?

In This Episode:

[00:02:09] Welcome to the show, Kirstie & Caitlin!

[00:05:29] They share how they met, the beginning of The Pet Photographers Club, and the podcast.

[00:10:10] They have never recorded any of their podcast episodes in the same room.

[00:11:56] Listen as Kirstie and Caitlin share how the business went from an idea to where it is today.

[00:17:16] Caitlin discusses who she believes isn’t suited to being a pet photographer and why.

[00:19:28] Kirstie talks about other things you should consider.

[00:21:19] If you want to photograph horses you need to have knowledge of horses and their behaviors.

[00:24:45] Caitlin does a lot of work with an organization that pairs service dogs with kids.

[00:26:52] They both love doing shoots with owners who believe their pets can’t be photographed.

[00:29:29] They share some tips on how to get great photos of pets that are more difficult.

[00:34:58] Kirstie gives some great advice on ways to build and market your pet photography business.

[00:46:30] I think that building relationships in photography is very important when marketing your photography business.

[00:47:33] Kirstie compares pet photography to other niches in photography.

[00:50:56] They discuss end-of-life photography and how beautiful but devastating it can be.

[00:56:05] Caitlin shares a story about one of her favorite photo sessions.

[00:59:20] Kirstie talks about one of her favorite sessions.

[01:04:22] They speak about some of the really cool wild animals they have taken photos of.

[01:07:53] Acuity is Caitlin’s favorite business tool.

[01:09:18] Zapier is Kirstie’s favorite business tool.

[01:11:07] “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” is Caitlin’s favorite quote.

[01:11:51] They share where they would take me in their respective cities to get a drink.

[01:14:58] Don’t forget to connect with these amazing ladies.

[01:16:55] Thank you both for being on the show!

Links and Resources:

Find Kirstie & Caitlin

The Pet Photographers Club

Podcast | Blog | Instagram

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Where Should I Focus My Marketing Efforts For My Photography Business

Easy Revenue Streams That You Can Start Today

Jenn Bays — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 06:00:40 -0400

Passive revenue streams are an amazing add to your business, but they take time and energy to get up and running. That being said, if your goal is to bring more money in without working more hours, then it may be time to incorporate some. Listen in to learn more about easy revenue streams you can start today to grow your business in 2022.

Quick disclaimer, if your goal this year is to get more visible and build a bigger following, then bookmark or save this episode and listen to it toward the end of 2022. Focus on the big goal for the year before trying to incorporate more. But if your goal is to bring in more income, listen away.

First things first is determining which direction you want to go in your business. Are you leaning toward education? Digital products? Networking and affiliate relationships? Which makes the most sense for your personality and where you want to take your business?

Then you want to consider the right fit. For instance, if you’re a wedding photographer, then providing a digital product prepping for boudoir photography might not be the best offer for your business. You want your passive income stream to fully align with your overall business goals.

Last, take your time to create this stream. Again, passive revenue streams are not initially very passive. Be sure you’re putting the proper care and attention toward the creation of this product or low touch service, and then promote the heck out of it.

What ideas do you have for passive revenue streams?

In This Episode:

[01:07] Getting your passive income streams up and running is anything but passive on your end.

[02:02] “Make sure you are trading less time for more money.”

[04:18] Listen as I share some ideas for making passive income.

[08:05] Think of some other ways you can bring in money.

[10:58] Now figure out how to deliver it to your clients.

[13:00] You also must consider when you have the time to launch it.

[16:40] Do what feels good and authentic to you and take your time.

[18:41] Here is your homework.

[19:36] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Traction: Get A Grip On Your Business by Gino Wickman

Running A Successful Business With Your Husband with Abby & Matt

Jenn Bays — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 06:00:39 -0400

I don’t know about you, but I’ve seriously considered bringing my husband home to work in my business about a thousand times. But how? How do you make sure that each partner is aligned in their work and that you’re bringing in the money to support it?

Abby and Matt share how they’re running a successful business as a wife and husband team!

It wasn’t initially in Abby’s plan to build a business that would bring her husband home. She loved taking pictures and was excited to make money doing it. As her business grew however, it made sense to put Matt’s administrative expertise to work.

They didn’t make the shift immediately. They took it slow and tried to be sure it was the best fit, and it definitely was. They’ve had some learning curves and have definitely had to make shifts to properly detach from work time to home time, but it’s been worth it.

Listen as they share their story, why having a clear vision and goal in mind is important, and what you can do to set your business up to bring in more help. They were a joy to chat with and I’m excited to use their tips and advice in my own business.

Who knows, maybe Success Beyond the Lens will become a husband wife team after all.

In This Episode:

[02:02] Welcome to the show, Abby & Matt!

[02:13] Abby shares her background and when Matt came into the business.

[02:42] Matt talks about being the integrator for the business.

[04:38] Abby discusses needing help in her business and not knowing if Matt would be able to integrate successfully.

[08:40] They speak about the first few months and the challenges of being business partners.

[12:44] It’s important to communicate the vision for the business and the customer experience you envision with whoever you hire.

[14:25] Listen as they share how they would onboard Matt differently today versus 7 years ago.

[21:41] Abby talks about the light bulb moment when she realized she needed to give Matt’s ideas a chance.

[23:42] Matt discusses what changed for him a few years into working with Abby.

[25:36] Abby says she won’t do something if she can’t do it well.

[27:43] They talk about the courses they offer.

[31:44] They discuss how they step away from the business to be a married couple and parents.

[39:17] Matt shares how they spend time as a couple.

[44:25] They speak about the get-a-way house and how that came about.

[51:11] Freedom is Abby’s favorite business tool.

[51:35] FG Funnels is Matt’s favorite business tool.

[52:08] They share their favorite quotes.

[54:13] Where they would take me to get a drink in DC and what we would drink.

[55:16] Thank you both for being on the show!

Links and Resources:

Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport

Find Abby & Matt:

Abby Grace Photography

The Artisan CEO Podcast

Blog

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Creating a Business That Generates Wealth with Tia Nash

The Sales Are In The Followup

Jenn Bays — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 06:00:28 -0400

Have you ever heard the phrase, “the sale is in the follow-up”? I cannot tell you how true it is. I noticed a HUGE change in my business and my conversion rate when I took this phrase to heart and started following up with potential clients. Listen in to hear my process and how you can adapt it for your business.

So first things first, after you have a consultation call, do you send a proposal? If you don’t already, you need to add this into your process. It makes all the difference with your client experience and gives you a touch point to follow up on.

You’d want to send your proposal before the end of the day. That way you have a reason to follow up the next day to be sure they received it and give them a chance to ask additional questions.

After that initial follow up, I typically recommend following up three days later, then a week later. Just quick touch points to keep the conversation open.

Now, this next step I don’t do, but I think it’s an amazing idea for building authority and giving your potential client additional reason to work with you. A couple weeks after the initial proposal is sent, it’s amazing to send them a more detailed email with links to previous work, testimonials, and more.

Does all of this sound like just what you need? Listen in to hear all of my tips and tricks for automating your follow ups and making more sales.

In This Episode:

[00:58] The sale is in the follow-up!

[01:45] We are all busy and it’s easy to forget to follow-up or not move forward.

[02:53] I’m sharing my follow-up process and how you can implement it in your business.

[04:08] The step after a consultation call needs to be in your corner, not theirs.

[05:13] Follow-up the next day to make sure they received your proposal.

[05:41] A week after I will contact them again and see if they are still interested in working with you.

[06:23] The next email will be sent two to three weeks after the original email with the proposal.

[08:26] If you still haven’t received a response, listen as I share what I would do.

[11:30] Your follow-up process should feel good to you and your potential client.

[14:07] I like follow-up sequences to be short and sweet.

[14:55] It helps to have a workflow when doing this process.

[16:47] I challenge you to go ahead and write some emails so that you are prepared for the busy season.

[18:09] I hope this was helpful, thank you for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How to Position Yourself to Attract Trans & Queer Folks to Your Website, FB Group & Instagram

Jenn Bays — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 06:00:52 -0400

Keep reading for some amazing resources if you are not ready to go deeper with this community but know other photographers who are! You’ll definitely want to take notes during this one!

In This Episode:

[01:46]] Welcome to the show!

[01:56] Listen as Ez shares about childhood, life, and the photography business.

[05:29] After years in the industry, sharing what things have been learned became their passion.

[06:45] Learn what misgendering is and what you can do to be more aware of it.

[08:23] Ways photographers can curb mistakes when working with trans, queer and non-binary clients.

[11:19] How to affirm and serve the demographic of transgender, non-binary, and meta gender clients without tokenizing.

[13:54] Hear techniques to make sure you are not ostracizing in your copy.

[17:21] Why some people won’t hire a transgender photographer.

[21:09] Are you ready to create a safe space for this community in your business?

[22:19] One thing you can do today to become more knowledgeable about this demographic.

[27:10] “Don’t do what’s easy, do what’s right” is Ez’s favorite quote.

[28:26] HoneyBook is Ez’s favorite business tool.

[29:33] If we were to meet for a drink we would go to Cast Iron Mustache where we could drink coffee or an adult beverage.

[31:40] I appreciate you being on the show and sharing your knowledge.

Links and Resources:

Jeffrey Marsh - TikTok

Evey Winters

Transnormativity

The Benefits of A Business Headquarters

Jenn Bays — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 06:00:59 -0400

Would your business survive if you had to take time away unexpectedly? Would the people in your life know how to manage things if for some reason you couldn’t tell them how to do it? Listen in to learn the benefits of having a business headquarters for your photography business.

God forbid anything ever happens to you that requires you stay away from your business for any amount of time unexpectedly. But things happen, so you need to be prepared.

So, what is a business headquarters?

To put it simply, a business headquarters is a hub to quickly and easily find everything you need to run your business efficiently and effectively. Your brand voice, your contracts, your systems and processes all in one place so that you can quickly find them rather than wasting time digging through emails and your Google Drive.

For my business, we use Clickup. We have an entire space dedicated to Success Beyond the Lens and additionally we have spaces for each client as well. This way, any time we hire a new contractor they can quickly and easily get the lay of the land for the business.

Even if you never plan on hiring anyone else to join you in your business, the amount of time you’ll save by knowing where all of your business assets are is insane.

Haven’t convinced you yet? Listen in to hear all the reasons you should have a business headquarters for your photography business.

In This Episode:

[01:24 ] Let’s talk about why you need a business headquarters.

[02:26] The first thing you need to consider is what project manager you are going to use to store the information needed to run your company.

[04:30] It’s also great to have someone in your company you trust to take over if you aren’t able.

[06:02] Having a CRM is important because you can automate parts of your business so take it one step further by having your headquarters in place.

[08:23] First make a running list of the systems you need to document.

[10:15] Make it simple by making screen recordings of everything you do and letting someone else write up your SOP’s.

[12:30] Do your business headquarters in bits and pieces and update it as your company evolves.

[14:20] Even if you are a solopreneur and plan on staying that way, these processes will help you.

[17:14] I highly recommend just starting with the basics.

[18:14] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Season 2 Episode 6: Manifesting a Life You Don’t Need a Vacation From with Billy Alice

Creating A Business That Generates Wealth with Theo Nash

Jenn Bays — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 06:00:56 -0400

When good people make money they empower more good people to make more money. Which is why Theo Nash helps others create businesses that generate wealth and help speed the process of change. Listen as they share their story and why they’re so passionate about changing the landscape of wealth and weddings.

Theo is a queer, trans, non-binary photographer and business coach who has dedicated themself to changing the image of weddings. When they were getting engaged to their now wife, they realized that there weren’t any websites showing images of their kind of love.

Now there is!

From trauma-informed marketing to inclusive imagery, Theo is living their mission and values each and every day. But that wasn’t enough.

If their anti-capitalist, punk rock loving teen self could see them now… As Theo has grown into their business, they realized what generating wealth really means. It means being able to make a difference while still financing their own life and dreams.

It means being able to source and pay for resources when family, friends, and acquaintances see hard times. It means being able to give with their time as well as their money because wealth opens up avenues of possibility.

Listen in to hear their story and learn more about their current business and how they want to continue to grow and create opportunity in the future.

In This Episode:

[01:43] Welcome to the show, Theo!

[02:03] They share what they do and who they serve.

[06:26] Listen as Theo discusses what trauma aware marketing is all about.

[10:29] How they built a consent-based business.

[11:58] They built their business to align with their values.

[14:53] They share how they prepare their clients for the views they may get if they allow them to release their photos.

[17:20] Ways to be aware of ensuring we are affirming people instead of putting them in a place of vulnerability with social media marketing.

[20:05] Learn about their followup policy after sending a proposal.

[24:29] Good people need to make more money and they share ways to generate wealth.

[28:04] Not everyone has time to start their own business, so their mission is to hire people and pay them a good wage with great benefits.

[33:20] How to raise your prices in a way that you are comfortable with.

[36:03] Tia shares one actionable tip you can do today to get your prices where you need them.

[41:07] “Do not let how I was raised with money affect how I let people pay me.”

[42:50] Their favorite business tool is Dubsado and favorite marketing tool is TikTok.

[44:24] They share where they would take me for a drink if I were in New Orleans.

[45:43] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Links and Resources:

Find Theo:

Theo Nash Photography

Blog

Instagram | TikTok

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Where Should I Focus My Marketing Efforts For My Photography Business?

Jenn Bays — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Ever felt ridiculously overwhelmed with how to market your photography business? There’s social media, local outlets, ads, organic marketing, and do you or do you not incorporate video? Listen in to learn where you should focus your marketing efforts for your photography business.

Here’s the thing about marketing, if you don’t feel good doing it, you won’t do it. Which isn’t really an option as a photographer, or any business owner really. You need to market your business and you need to do it in a way that feels authentic to you.

For instance, perhaps you’re falling into the “shoulds” of video, if it doesn’t feel authentic, don’t do it. If it doesn’t work for your audience, don’t do it. But if you’re genuinely interested in trying out a new medium, then try it!

So, here's a quick breakdown of my thoughts on where you should start looking to market your business in 2022. If you’re already on Instagram, try reels. If it doesn’t feel good, then stop, but try it! If your reels are going really well, it’s time to look at marketing on TikTok.

Are you a branding photographer for professionals? Check out LinkedIn. In all of the above, Pinterest is a good idea. It’s main purpose is to boost your SEO and get traffic to your website. More traffic equals more leads.

Lastly, build your email list! Emails are now and will likely always be one of the most important marketing channels because you get to have a real conversation with you potential clients.

You don’t have to do all of these things. Pick just one. Try it out. Play with it. Get really good at it. Then consider adding on. That’s the beauty of creating a marketing plan that supports your business and life. It caters to what feels good and right for you!

In This Episode:

[01:00] Welcome to the first episode of 2022!

[01:25] I want to help you on a path to marketing your business in a way that feels authentic to you.

[02:28] You don’t have to do videos to grow your business, but it can help.

[03:20] For any photography business, Instagram Reels and TikTok are good places to be.

[04:26] If you are already on Instagram, then Reels is where I would start.

[07:12] If you have the time and ability to learn TikTok, I would recommend it for 2022.

[08:38] LinkedIn can be a great resource for photographers that are in professional markets.

[12:38] The benefit of Pinterest is that it can help your SEO.

[13:02] Email marketing is one of the most important tools that you can have in your marketing tool kit.

[17:30] I love blogging! When you consistently blog for your website, you are constantly boosting your SEO.

[20:09] Focus on where you feel the least resistance.

[21:52] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

2021 In Review

Jenn Bays — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 06:00:50 -0400

I don’t know about you, but lists are my jam. Which is why, since I started the podcast, I always create a “year in review” episode. I know that 2021 is not over, but season 1 of the podcast is, and I wanted to be sure I did a recap of this year before we take a break and come back in 2022.

First of all, this has been our absolute best year in business. We hit our very first five-figure month in January and have not gone below it since. Which of course is amazing, but this quick growth definitely revealed some holes in the business.

As we continued to bring on new clients and new contractors, I realized that though systems are near and dear to my heart, I’d failed to implement them in my own business.

Cue, stepping into the CEO role like a boss.

Okay. There have definitely been some bumps and bruises, but think about it this way. In what business ever, have you had an entry level employee become the CEO of the business in four years? Because that’s essentially what happens when you own a business that goes from being an idea to a reality.

Listen in to hear all about this year and why I fully believe that my focus on myself and putting myself first has led to the massive growth we’ve seen in the company. I am so excited to see what 2022 has to offer.

Let’s do this!

In This Episode:

[01:20] I love hearing and watching a year in review!

[03:28] Since I have been doing this podcast, I review the previous year because it’s fun and there are lessons to be learned for the new year.

[04:09] 2021 has been an incredible year for Success Beyond the Lens.

[04:45] My challenge this year has been figuring out how to be a CEO.

[08:02] In January 2021, we hit our first five-figure month and in October we officially crossed the hundred thousand dollar mark.

[11:00] With growth, there were challenges that had to be worked out.

[13:59] I also had to figure out how to grow a company while still taking care of myself.

[16:13] I had to learn how to put myself above the business.

[17:18] I hired a therapist and laid down all of my issues and anxieties and we have been working on straightening my **ish out.

[22:07] One of the most exciting things I have done to make time for me is riding my horse and the freedom and power felt amazing.

[24:27] It’s been a foundational year for the business and for my personal life.

[25:33] My one actionable tip would be to invest in who you are as a person.

[29:24] It’s been an incredible year and I am so excited for 2022.

[29:50] I will see you guys with new episodes in January!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Completing a Business Audit for Next Year

Jenn Bays — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 06:00:34 -0400

Are you ready to start planning for 2022 for your photography business? If your response to that is heck no. I’m still recovering from this year. Then this episode is your ticket to making 2022 better! Learn why you need to complete a business audit for next year.

Think about this past year. What words would you use to describe it? Would you say you had more negative or positive words come to mind?

If your answer is negative, then it’s time to dig in. Systems issues? Assign time in January to learn them. Time management? You need to work on creating a better calendaring system.

What went wrong this year is key for what you should focus on fixing for next year.

Next, review the positive words that came up for you. Those are usually the things that went well or that you’re happy with. Find ways to do more of those things in 2022. You may need to consider hiring in 2022 or upleveling your skills.

Business audits are key to growing and scaling any business. For photographers, these audits can mean the difference between a business that excites and one that drains you. Listen in to learn all of my tips and tricks to properly perform your photography business audit.

In This Episode:

[01:07] Thank you for joining me today!

[02:16] I am focusing on auditing your business so that you are ready for 2022.

[03:00] I want you to grab a pen and paper and brain dump the words and feelings you would associate with this past year.

[05:02] Let’s dive into the negative words you have chosen for 2021.

[08:05] If systems are your problem, plan on taking a few hours each week in January to learn it.

[11:56] It’s imperative that you are working with a setup person who will allow you the time to learn the system.

[14:08] Finding a happy balance between your business and personal life is important if you are trying to figure out how to keep from being overwhelmed.

[18:10] It’s easier to have your assistant hold your boundaries and say no to requests than it is for you.

[21:38] I discuss being overwhelmed, but not overbooked.

[25:00] Let’s talk about the positive words you have on your list.

[28:13] If you have positive thoughts about some things in 2021, try to continue doing those things in the new year.

[32:17] Look at your business and see what tasks you can delegate that take up too much of your time.

[36:16] As you delegate tasks, your business will grow.

[37:10] Have a great Thanksgiving week!

[37:24] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

Manifesting a Life You Don't Need a Vacation From with Billy Alice

Jenn Bays — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 06:00:21 -0400

When you dwell on negative thoughts or situations in your life, the universe gives you more negativity. Whether or not you believe in the Woo, there are scientific studies that prove this point to be true. Billy Alice, the sciency spiritualist, joins me to talk about manifesting a life you don’t need a vacation from.

Billy and I have been connected for several years now and we actually connected before either of us joined the online space. Her journey started when she realized she didn’t want to waste her life living for the moments in between.

She decided to try and manifest more of the life she wanted, and guess what? It worked. Within six months, her husband got a raise that covered her salary, they closed on the house they wanted, and she became pregnant with their son. All things that she was working on manifesting.

This year she wanted to help motivate other women and her clients to lean into their manifestation journey and created a full size vision boarding magazine. She’s included everything you’d need to really start manifesting the life you desire.

Listen in to hear all about manifestation and how you can transform your life and business.

In This Episode:

[01:26] Welcome to the show, Billy!

[03:53] She shares what she does and who her ideal clients are.

[06:02] Listen as Billy discusses her magazine and why she feels it’s so important.

[09:57] “The law of attraction is like gravity.”

[11:57] She talks about what living a life you don’t need a vacation from looks like.

[14:22] She challenged herself for 30 days to feel more satisfaction in her everyday life.

[17:53] “The money is not where the feeling good comes from.”

[20:04] Billy talks about some lies we tell ourselves.

[22:27] She shares one tip you can use today to help you work through the issues you might have.

[24:57] She speaks about some ways her clients play.

[27:28] Billy’s favorite business tool is Voxer.

[28:00] “A negative mind will never give you a positive life.” is her favorite quote.

[28:43] She talks about where she would take me if I came to Tampa Bay to have drinks with her.

[29:23] Thank you so much for being on the show today!

Links and Resources

Find Billy:

The Sciencey Spiritualist

The Real Vision Board Magazine

The Sciencey Spiritualist Podcast

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Money Mindset for Photographers with Karinda K

Jenn Bays — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 05:00:03 -0400

That wasn’t her story. It was a story she’d heard from her parents since she was little and she took it on as her reality.

Have you ever struggled with certain money issues in your business and you just can’t seem to figure out why? It could be you have your own money blocks.

In This Episode:

[02: 27] Welcome to the show, Karinda!

[04:34] She challenges photographers to charge all the money in the world so that you can give it away.

[05:40] Listen as Karinda discusses why having a good money mindset is so important.

[09:47] She talks about the steps she took to correct her mindset.

[14:24] These steps can be used to alleviate anxiety.

[16:05] When you understand the science behind your pricing, it makes it easier to think logically about it.

[16:45] She shares her comfort zone and why it can be a detriment.

[19:37] Karinda discusses how to set goals.

[22:27] “You don’t walk into any business as the CEO.”

[24:17] Sit down and think about how much money you need to live the life you want to live.

[27:29] “Surround yourself with people who are where you want to be.”

[29:14] Her pet peeves are coaches you work with and the minute you stop paying them, they forget you exist.

[30:42] She gives some advice about paying attention to your competitors.

[34:30] Karinda shares an actionable tip for anyone struggling with their money mindset.

[37:16] Her favorite business tool is ProSelect.

[38:30] Her favorite quote is “Done is better than perfect.”

[39:43] She talks about where she would take me for drinks if I came to her part of the country.

[41:49] She shares the new course she is launching in December.

[42:11] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources Find Karinda:

Master Your Mind & Money

Pinterest | Instagram |Facebook | LinkedIn

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Season 1 Episode 2 - How to Create A Life That Helps You Run A Successful Business with Geomyra

How I Stepped Away From My Business For A Week

Jenn Bays — Wed, 27 Oct 2021 05:00:06 -0400

This year, I’ve been able to step FULLY away from my business for a couple of weeks and it has been amazing. It’s been a long time coming. It wasn’t easy by any means. But after I finally took the leap and took the time away, I realized how important it truly is. Listen in to hear how I did it.

To give you a bit of perspective, I was the person who was constantly checking Voxer and constantly in my email box. I was convinced that if I didn’t respond right away, my clients would decide that they weren’t investing properly. This is in spite of the fact that my onboarding was very clear about my hours and how I communicate.

It took until I was completely away from all service and internet for several days for me to realize how entrenched I really was. I had the systems in place to allow me to take time away, but I wasn’t doing it. I had the boundaries in place, but I was crossing them.

Sound familiar?

Listen in to hear all of my tips on how to create systems and processes in your business to be able to take time away when you need it. Because we all need that time. We all need space to refresh and rekindle our creative reserves.

Have you taken time away this year?

In This Episode:

[01:26] I have been able to take time away from my business twice this year.

[03:09] Stepping away is so important.

[05:45] Last year, I started working on boundaries and figuring out times when I needed to check on my clients.

[10:04] Tip 1 for stepping away from your business is to set some strong boundaries.

[10:12] Tip 2 is to have a strong team around you.

[11:46] If you are running a six-figure business, you need to outsource.

[13:43] There are so many benefits to having someone know your business in and out.

[17:31] Ask yourself what you can outsource in your business and life right now.

[18:30] You must have systems in your business to outsource and feel confident with the people you hire.

[21:38] I was able to step away because I have pieces and systems in place and people I trust to run things the way I would.

[24:14] I challenge you to look at 2022 and figure out a week or two when you can step away from your business.

[25:13] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How to Know You’re Ready To Go Full-time As A PhotographerHow to Know You Are Ready to go Fulltime as a Photographer

Jenn Bays — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 05:00:25 -0400

Is your dream to go full time in your photography business? If so, you may be wondering how to know you’re ready to go full time as a photographer? Listen in to hear all the things you should consider before you leave your current full time job.

The first question you should ask yourself is, am I prepared to go full time? Do you have shoots booked into next year? Do you have income set aside to cover the lean months in December, January, and February? Have you set up your business officially with the IRS?

All of these questions point to your mindset about your business. Are you taking it seriously? Is it a side hustle OR do you really see it as a business meant to support you and your family? If you are still in “side hustle” mindset, then it may not yet be time.

You’ll need an exit strategy for leaving your corporate job and in that strategy you should consider benefits, savings, your bills, etc. All the things that make your life go round.

Also, this is an unprecedented season. All of the people who had to cancel sessions last year and early this year are now looking to book. If you’re ready based on this period of insane growth, then you may want to wait until things level out!

Listen in to hear all of my recommendations on what you should consider before making the leap into your business full time.

Are you ready?

In This Episode:

[01:46] Are you prepared to go full time? This is the first question you should ask yourself.

[01:53] Listen as I tell you what I mean by that.

[03:31] Take money from the months that you are busy to carry you on, months that are slower.

[05:43] I highly recommend investing in education as a new business owner.

[06:49] You need to consider whether you are taking your business seriously.

[08:09] Realize that this fall season is unprecedented because of the cancellations of 2020.

[11:00] Here are a few tips on marketing for 2022.

[14:38] Have a conversation with your partner about expectations before you take the leap.

[16:37] Finally, have a system in place to help you run an efficient business.

[18:30] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers waitlist!

How to Create a Life that Helps You Run a Successful Business with Geomyra Pollard

Jenn Bays — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 05:00:15 -0400

There is no such thing as balance. How do you feel when you hear that statement? For Geomyra Pollard it was very freeing. Instead of feeling like she needed to juggle all of her responsibilities, she was more able to tend to each one as needed each day.

Listen as Geomyra and I talk about creating a life that helps you run a successful business.

Geomyra is a coach for creatives who was once a wedding planner. She was running her wedding planning business, working in her nine to five, and raising two kids while still trying to be an amazing wife and she kept hearing all about this balance stuff.

It just didn’t make sense.

Instead she decided that she needed to be well-rounded. A person who is well-rounded worries less about balancing and everything and more about giving each thing their time and space. For her this meant hiring someone to help with the house so she could take back time for her business.

This also meant saying no to business things that interfered with her family life. As her kids get older, it means handing off household chores and responsibilities so that they too become well-rounded individuals.

After listening, let me know one step you’re going to take to create your own business success by creating a more well-rounded life.

In This Episode:

[01:44] Welcome to the show, Geomyra!

[01:51] She shares her background and what she is all about.

[04:20] Listen as Geomyra discusses what living well-rounded means to her.

[07:10] She talks about some tools she uses to set her family up for success.

[10:47] She believes it is more cost effective to outsource certain tasks.

[13:01] Geomyra shares the systems she uses to get the week set up in one day.

[16:19] When your kids get older, you can let them get involved with helping you.

[19:22] She discusses systems to use in your business.

[23:16] Think of your VAs or assistants as an extension of you.

[25:40] Geomyra shares some tips on hiring someone to help you.

[28:09] She gives us one actionable tip to use today.

[29:17] “I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord.” Is her favorite scripture.

[30:12] Her favorite business tool is Google calendar.

[31:24] She shares where she would take me for a drink if I were to come to visit.

[33:03 Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources Find Geomyra:

Coaching For Creatives

Living Well-Rounded Podcast

Website | Instagram

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers waitlist!

Managing Your Busiest Season without A System

Jenn Bays — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 05:00:49 -0400

Fall is a photographer's busiest season and for good reason. The weather is turning more temperate, the leaves are changing color, and all the holidays are starting up. If you haven’t already built out a system for managing your business, now is not the time to start.

Listen in to learn how you can manage your busiest season without a system.

First things first, you need to carve out time each day to handle your emails. You may feel like you have more work than you can handle in a year right now, but that won’t be the case if you don’t continue to focus on your client outreach and experience.

To make this process more manageable, only give out your work email to clients. Don’t give out your personal information. Make sure that you protect your personal bubble by keeping work confined within your boundaries.

Also, start using your reminder or task app on your phone. This isn’t the time to leave things to memory. Write it down, type it in, and make sure you’re getting actual reminders about all the important goings on in your life and business.

Consider this as well, what can you outsource in your life or business? Need your house to be cleaned? Now is the time to get the cleaner! Need a party planned? Now is the time to invest in a party planner. You cannot do all the things and be all the places. Find ways to outsource that fit your budget and your overall needs.

I’m sharing all the wisdom on how to run your business without systems, but next week I’m talking to the queen of creating well-rounded lives. Tune in to hear her thoughts and recommendations on the best ways to survive and thrive in this busy time.

In This Episode:

[01:26] I know this is your busiest season, so I am talking about how to manage this crazy time without a system.

[03:24] The first thing you need to do is set time every day to handle your emails.

[04:38] I challenge you to stop giving your personal email or phone number to clients.

[06:07] Use the reminder app on your phone if you need to remember to do a task.

[08:17] I also want you to think about what you can outsource to allow yourself some extra time.

[13:09] Consider looking at your week ahead of time.

[17:01] I have a calendar on our refrigerator that shows my husband at a glance what is going on for the week.

[18:50] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources:

Managing Anxiety as a Business Owner

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers waitlist!

Having A Successful Fall Season Amidst COVID

Jenn Bays — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 05:00:20 -0400

That’s right. The pandemic strikes again. I’m not going to be debating anything about Covid, but the reality is that it’s still here, it’s still impacting events, and therefore it’s still impacting the photography industry. Which is why I want you to set yourself up for a successful fall season despite Covid.

If you had asked me last year if I thought we’d still be dealing with Covid at this scale, I would have definitely told you no. Since it’s still here though, I want to give you some tips. My first tip is to set expectations ahead of time.

I don’t know if you’ve noticed but this has been a running theme throughout the podcast. The more you communicate with your potential clients and clients, the better. Make sure that they know that you are doing everything in your power to keep them safe and then tell them what that means.

Being proactive will help your clients feel more confident in you, your business, and your work.

Prepare for cancellations now. They’re going to happen. What can you do now to help offset those lost or rescheduled events? Perhaps offering mini-sessions throughout the season makes sense. Or maybe you start looking to branch out on your offerings.

Either way, start thinking of contingencies now.

Covid isn’t going anywhere, so make sure you and your business are prepared as we go into the busiest season of the year.

In This Episode:

[02:03] Today’s topic is about COVID and how to prepare your fall schedule during this time.

[04:12] My first tip is to set the expectations ahead of time.

[06:47] Let both your booked clients know how you will keep them safe.

[08:02] Being proactive will help your clients feel more confident about their safety.

[10:03] Be prepared for cancellations and plan ahead to recover the loss.

[11:18] A day of mini-sessions might be one way you could recoup any losses.

[13:19] I hope these tips help you.

[14:20] See you soon!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Treat Your Business Like A Business

Jenn Bays — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 05:00:57 -0400

Most photographers start their business as a hobby. You picked up a camera, took a few pictures, and then got sucked into the love of the art and science of photography. Then suddenly you find yourself running a full on business. If that’s you, then listen in to learn why you need to treat your business, like a business.

Taking pictures may be the foundation of your business, but your business will only run as efficiently as the processes you have in place. You need systems. You need boundaries. You need operating hours and client experience processes. You need to treat your business just like any other business you’re familiar with.

First things first, take a moment to really dig into the experience you want your clients to have. Think of how you want to be treated as a client and then distill that down into a process for interacting with your clients.

Next, think about you. When do you want to work? How do you want to work? Do you need to hire an assistant? Set up your calendar appropriately and then inform that assistant about your boundaries and your hours. Enforce them.

LIsten in to hear all the ways you can dial and start treating your business like a business.

In This Episode:

[00;44] Welcome to the show!

[03:06] I want you to think about the experience you want your clients to have.

[05:00] The easiest way to set boundaries is to create a calendar or schedule that allows you to do things on certain days.

[08:05] When you have a calendar in place and you bring an assistant into your business, it will help them manage your emails.

[10:00] When you must make decisions all the time, you can develop what’s called decision fatigue.

[13:01] Treat your business like a business by having your friends and family treat it like a business.

[15:12] Put boundaries in place and set expectations for clients.

[16:53] I want you to succeed!

[17:13] Have a great day!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Do You Need a Virtual Assistant or Your Systems Setup?

Jenn Bays — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0400

When you think about your business do you immediately feel like you’re drowning and need help? Or do you simply feel scattered and feel like having a team member is the key to sorting things out? Either way, are you sure you need a virtual assistant or do you need systems setup?

Despite the rhetoric in the online business world, the answer to every problem is not to hire someone. In fact, if the back end of your business is messy then having a VA come into your business could prove disastrous.

Instead you may simply need a few simple tweaks to streamline your business systems and create more space for yourself. But how do you know which it is?

Listen in as I share some quick questions that you should ask yourself and what your answers may mean. I fully believe in building a business that supports you. Instead of jumping onto the hiring train and spending money, you may simply need to rearrange some processes.

After listening, let me know, where do you fall?

In This Episode:

[00:44] Thank you for being here today!

[02:37] Sometimes people think they need help in their businesses when really they need a system set up.

[05:45] Once we started working in Dubsado, we were able to automate many of our day-to-day tasks and emails, which freed up a lot of my time.

[08:33] After your systems are in place, it’s time to organize your inbox.

[12:25] We put folders in place to declutter your inbox.

[15:20] If the SOP exists, you are allowing your VA to have the answers they need at their fingertips.

[17:21] The system has to come first.

[19:54] At the minimum, put an auto responder on when people can expect to hear back from you.

[22:13] If you have a question about your particular situation, I would love to hear from you.

[23:00] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources

HoneyBook

Dubsado

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

On-Air Coaching Series: Workflow Strategies with Mandy B

Jenn Bays — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 05:00:40 -0400

Y’all! I am so excited to share with you another coaching session! These sessions have been so much fun and hopefully helpful to both my guests and to you! I got to chat with Mandy B about her lead workflow and ways to create more conversions. Listen in and learn ways that you can book more shoots.

Mandy actually has her workflow really well planned out. She has each step covered even to the point where she has a task automated to remind her to send out client gifts. As I was initially listening to her overall workflow I was extremely impressed.

Then Mandy shared with me the real issue. Between someone signing up for more information and them actually getting on a call, leads are dropping off. That’s when I realized she has a hole in her workflow.

It’s a hole that I’m sure many of us either had or still have and it’s such an easy one to fix. Want to know what it is? Yes?

It’s the follow up.

Mandy was sending one email to get people on a call with her and then never really following up in a consistent manner. Listen as I share ways to shore up this hole as well as a few other tips to make her workflow shine.

In This Episode:

[00:42] I’m super excited to have you here today!

[01:28] Mandy shares her background and when she started her photography business.

[05:01] They discuss what they like about where she lives in Florida.

[07:17] Listen as Mandy speaks about why she believes in niching down.

[12:06] She talks about her workflow and the steps she takes.

[15:24] I discuss checking her mindset and to ask herself how likely what her brain is telling her is true.

[18:15] We talk about sending out follow up emails to stay in contact.

[22:34] Mandy wants to know if it’s ok to send pricing with the first email to the client.

[24:08] I recommend sending unread emails from HoneyBook through your regular email if you see they haven’t read what you’ve sent.

[26:12] I share why it’s important to set up your links through HoneyBook and make sure your calendar is synced with your scheduler.

[28:13] She talks about going out and buying gifts for her clients.

[33:40] In your workflow, make sure you automate everything you can.

[35:23] I share the pros and cons of using the brochure section in HoneyBook.

[39:46] A CRM will make your life better once it’s set up, but it takes time to learn it.

[41:30] I share what bookkeeping software gives you above what is offered by HoneyBook or Dubsado.

[44:20] “Everything happens for a reason” is her favorite quote.

[44:51] HoneyBook is Mandy’s favorite business tool.

[45:47] If they were to grab drinks in Orlando, they would go to the Wellborn and drink Lavender Margaritas.

[49:07] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources

Find Mandy:

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How to Make a Full-Time Income in a Lifestyle Business with Gina Brocker and Angie Bonin

Jenn Bays — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 21:23:48 -0400

Discovering how to make a full-time income in your photography business is the key to living your dreams. No matter if you’ve been working in your photography for days, months, or years, you have to know your numbers and recognize whether or not you’re truly making money.

Gina Brocker and Angie Bonin are two amazing photographers who have come together to create a program for new and struggling photographers. Rather than winging this business thing, they help you step fully into your numbers and strategy to create real success.

I find it so fascinating when business owners come together to create entirely new ventures together. Listen as they share their story and why they felt the need to create their program.

We also chat about the program itself and how you can start figuring out your numbers now. If you’ve been struggling to generate income and truly build a business that supports you and your dreams, then listen in and consider joining them in Revealing the Narrative.

In This Episode:

[00:51] Welcome Gina and Angie of Revealing the Narrative to share their story.

[02:25] How did their partnership spark?

[03:40] What is the strategy behind making a full-time income in a photography business?

[06:06] Don’t charge based on other people’s businesses. Your prices are your prices.

[07:49] How do they support their students in saying no to opportunities that aren’t right for them?

[10:53] The work you’re saying yes to is keeping you from taking the jobs that you’re excited about.

[13:40] Do they help their students calculate their numbers to better understand their pricing?

[16:23] What kinds of hidden expenses could you be forgetting in your business?

[20:01] Are there expenses that new photographers should avoid when they’re starting out?

[23:06] You should definitely have an emergency fund.

[25:09] How I felt after getting my first profit and loss statement back.

[27:08] Gina and Angie help their clients to raise rates even when it feels scary.

[28:15] Your pricing should not be directly related to how good a photographer you are.

[31:42] Angie and Gina share their favorite quotes.

[32:29] What are their favorite business tools?

[34:28] How often should photographers re-evaluate their expenses?

[36:43] Where would we get drinks if I were in their town?

[38:57] Connect with Gina and Angie.

Links and Resources:

Revealing the Narrative

Revealing the Narrative on Facebook

Revealing the Narrative on Instagram

Find Gina:

Gina’s Website

Find Angie:

Angie’s Website

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Organize Your Life to Run Your Business More Efficiently - Episode 21

Consistently versus Constantly

Jenn Bays — Wed, 28 Jul 2021 05:00:29 -0400

There is a huge difference between being consistent in creating content and constantly creating content. Just as there is a difference in being consistent in your business and constantly working in your business. You need to be consistent. You do not need to be constantly “on”.

The hustle culture that has been bred in recent years has been heavily influenced by the whims of social media algorithms. That being said, it has been proven that if you’re posting twice a day every day you’re actually hurting your post reach.

Algorithms change. Rather than catering to the algorithm, create a consistent posting and engagement schedule that works for you and your business. When you are consistent with your schedule and time, you will attract better clients and find more balance in your business.

Listen in as I share ways that you can create consistency and give yourself space to step away and take care of you and your family. If you feel like you’re constantly doing things for your business, then you need this episode.

In This Episode:

[00:51] I’m super excited to have you here today!

[02:02] I write my goals down on my Aqua Notes in the show and the reminders app on my phone to keep me on task.

[03:14] There is a difference between consistency and constantly.

[05:07] It is better to post on social media twice a week than never. You don’t have to post every day.

[07:18] Look at your work week in advance. It will give you the opportunity to plan your week accordingly.

[10:30] There is a lot of volume in the photography industry right now.

[11:32] Thinking you have to do so many things constantly can lead to burnout and overwhelm.

[13:04] Have a great week!

Links and Resources

Preparing to Be Booked Out in 2021 - Episode 25

Aqua Notes

Sparkle Hustle Grow

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Finding Your Why with Adam Mason

Jenn Bays — Wed, 21 Jul 2021 05:00:48 -0400

I am so excited that you’re listening to this conversation. (If you haven’t started it yet, don’t delay. Hit play now!) Adam and I dug into so many different things both personal and business related. He shared so many fantastic tips and advice but the best was why it’s important to find your why.

Adam was raised by a single mom in a small town and was very involved in his church. He went to college with a focus on music but due to his own actions was kicked out. He was later offered his dream job but he realized that he wanted and needed more.

He took the leap and started doing photography full time after building his business on the side of his full time job. He has since built a multiple six-figure photography business and is helping others to do the same.

What has been constant through all of this? His why. Though the actual why has changed over the years as his life has grown and expanded, he's constantly working toward his goals. When things get hard, when the business seems impossible, he thinks about his why and it keeps him motivated.

We also dive deep into the issue of burnout. It seems so prevalent this year as the world starts to open back up after the lockdowns. He himself is shooting over 70 weddings this year. How does he avoid burnout?

For Adam it’s all about living in his purpose. If you’re living in your purpose you’ll never experience burnout. On the flip side, if you’re feeling burnout, it may be time to make some changes.

If you’re ready to hear some amazing advice from a fantastic photographer, then listen in and keep a notebook handy. Adam really is dropping all the truth bombs!

In This Episode:

[00:53] Welcome to the show Adam!

[01:16] He shares his background and what he is doing today.

[04:01] Adam talks about the diversity he shoots in D.C.

[07:00] He discusses his journey to photography.

[11:51] Adam speaks about going out on a limb to start his business and some mistakes he made along the way.

[17:17] He talks about finding your why and how that can get you through the tough times.

[22:23] If you are fulfilling your purpose, there will not be any burnout.

[27:31] “Imposter syndrome only occurs when you try to be someone else.”

[32:30] Adam believes that marketing to your ideal client is beneficial.

[34:36] His cats’ name is Penny, and he shares some never heard info.

[37:27] Adam shares some things that are important to grow your business.

[42:08] “The more you sweat in peace the less you sweat in war.” Is his favorite quote.

[43:13] Tava is his number one business tool.

[45:29] Adam shares where he would take me for a drink and what we would drink or eat.

[47:30] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Links and Resources Find Adam:

Mason Photography

The Bearded Tog Podcast

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

On Air Coaching Series: How to Create and Use Questionnaires in Your Business with Brooke Van Groningen

Jenn Bays — Wed, 14 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400

What is one thing you do to make your clients and customers feel as if they are number one in your business and that you’re interested in their needs and wants? For Brooke Van Groningen it was to create a questionnaire. Listen as she shares how she started off, what she’s doing now, and then we dig into how to create and use questionnaires to uplevel your business.

She started her questionnaires in Google just to gather the pertinent information but then later realized that she needed everything in one place. She got hooked on HoneyBook and created her questionnaires there.

After we discuss what she’s doing now, we chat all about the ways she can uplevel her questionnaires. We dig deep into the actual questions she’s asking, different ways she can use the information, and how the questionnaires can help her create content and marketing assets.

This was an amazing conversation with some fantastic takeaways. It was so much fun to dig into all of the awesome things Brooke is already doing and then making just a few tweaks to make things even better.

If you haven’t started incorporating questionnaires in your business, you need to listen to this one.

In This Episode:

[01:11] Brooke shares her background and what she is doing now.

[04:03] She talks about the system she uses to keep track of her clients and emails.

[06:31] I want to know how much information you get when you have them fill out the intake form.

[09:50] I share what I believe needs to be on the client questionnaire and intake form.

[13:01] A way to build your SEO and portfolio is to do a blog off of your questionnaires.

[14:58] Make sure to tag the locations you are shooting at.

[17:24] The questionnaire is 100% one of the best tools you can use.

[19:35] I discuss which questions I would keep on the intake form and which ones I would move to the questionnaire or remove altogether.

[23:33] You could use the answers on your intake or questionnaire to send them a gift card to uplevel their experience.

[27:04] HoneyBook is Brooke’s favorite business tool.

[27:31] Her favorite quote is; “Take notice of what light does to everything.”

[28:02] She shares where she would take me for a drink in St. Louis.

Links and Resources Find Brooke:

@brookejvg

Brooke’s Links

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How To Let Go Of Control

Jenn Bays — Wed, 07 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0400

What is the hardest thing for you to do in your business? If your answer is, hand over the reins, then you’re not alone. Across all industries and most business owners, letting go of control is one of the most difficult ideas to process, but you have to do it to grow. Listen in to learn more.

Here’s the deal, as a business owner, you do not have to be good at everything. You do not need to be the expert in every facet of your business. You simply need to be the expert at your main offering, right?

Which means that you need a team to handle the other pieces of your business.

Believe it or not, when you hire properly, your team really will believe in the business as much as you do. They will know how to do things, sometimes better than you do. They will make your life and your business run much more smoothly because you don’t have to think about every single detail.

I’m passionate about helping business owners feel jazzed about their businesses. To do that, they have to trust me to take care of their business and, in some ways, them.

Listen in to hear my thoughts on how you can begin to relinquish control and take back the time and space to nurture your own genius!

In This Episode:

[00:45] Hey friends, thanks for joining me today!

[01:22] The most common thread between all industries and clients is letting go of control.

[03:22] I want you to consider the belief that no one can do it as well as you can.

[05:21] Find your weaknesses because those are the things that you probably aren’t doing well and are the first things you should outsource.

[08:10] In order for your business to succeed, you have to do things outside of your comfort zone.

[09:31] Wedding season is the time that photographers feel the pressure of getting behind.

[10:41] Outsourcing your email or CRM management, in my opinion, is the best thing to outsource during peak season.

[13:15] When you allow yourself to give up control, you will gain the space you need to take care of the things only you can take care of.

[16:22] You gain emotional and mental space when you give up control.

[18:11] Good luck during this peak season!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Meet The Team: Taylor Prince - Client Experience Manager

Jenn Bays — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Our meet the team series continues with Taylor Prince. Taylor is one of our amazing Client Experience Managers and she is an invaluable member of our team. Listen as she shares more about her business, her role, and her life.

Taylor started in the virtual assistant world just after having her first daughter. She tried a bunch of different things, as you should, and realized that the executive assistant role and tasks were her favorite.

Now at Success Beyond the Lens, she is responsible for making sure client accounts run smoothly. She is in charge of email inboxes, calendar management, and some very light content creation and she said she loves it.

When she’s not working, she’s spending time with her daughter doing learning activities and potty training in preparation for her new little one’s arrival.

Taylor truly is one of our standout team members and it has been so much fun to watch her grow and flourish in this role. She is a key component of what makes this company successful and I’m so happy to share her story with you.

In This Episode:

[01:32] Welcome to the show, Taylor!

[01:39] She shares a little about herself and her life.

[03:43] LIsten to hear what a day in the life of a Client Experience Manager looks like.

[05:42] In this role, time management challenges her the most.

[07:50] Making inquiry phone calls is something she really enjoys doing when she has time.

[09:30] Taylor talks about what she likes to do when she has time off.

[11:42] She shares a tip for anyone who wants to hire a virtual assistant or is looking to work with Success Beyond The Lens.

[14:42] “Never give up on your dreams.” Is her favorite quote.

[15:18] Monday and Dubsado are two of her favorite business tools.

[15:54] If Taylor wasn’t pregnant, she would take me to have a margarita at one of the small bars in town.

[16:50] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources Find Taylor:

Taylor’s VA Biz

Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Lavender & Light Photography

On Air Coaching Series: Upleveling Your Client Experience Through Simplifying with Emily Ross

Jenn Bays — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400

I’m so excited to continue our On Air Coaching Series with Emily Ross of Lavender & Light Photography. Emily has recently gone all-in with her photography business and is feeling the squeeze of needing automation to stay on top of her work. Listen as she shares her concerns and we tackle some of the ways to uplevel your client exposure through simplifying.

Emily lives in a small town where most of her work comes from people she already knows, knows through acquaintances, or who are referred to her. She loves the community that she is slowly building and doesn’t want to lose that personal touch.

That being said, it’s very time consuming to still be managing all of the details of the lead, intake, and client management process when some things really can be automated.

We touch on her need for a streamlined communications process as well as scheduling process. While she has her Google Calendar connected to her HoneyBook there are still some issues with her availability that we work through as well.

So that she can keep that personal feel, we also chat about ways to update the automated emails within HoneyBook so that they read more like personalized emails coming directly from her.

Are you struggling with some of these issues as well? Listen in to learn ways that you can uplevel your client experience, simplify your processes, and continue to grow and scale while remaining personable and customer-focused.

In This Episode:

[01:04] Emily shares her background and what she is doing now.

[03:01] She speaks about what inspired her to make photography her full-time business.

[06:46] I asked her to tell me three things that she needs help with around her business.

[06:50] Listen as Emily talks about what her process is right now and where she gets her inquiries.

[08:20] Scheduling is an issue because her process isn’t streamlined.

[09:11] She knows she could do better with the automated workflow through HoneyBook.

[11:16] I share how she can streamline all the communication she has with her clients.

[15:45] They discuss HoneyBooks followup capability.

[20:25] I talk about the different responses you can set up in your workflow that send out information automatically.

[22:46] With Google calendar you have the opportunity to tell whether you are free or busy during times you have blocked in your calendar.

[24:22] Create a scheduler that can read your Google calendar.

[27:50] I am taking a few minutes to talk about automation.

[31:03] If you have regular check-ins with your clients, they are more likely to keep you informed of last-minute changes.

[35:59] “Actually I can.” Is Emily’s favorite quote.

[37:02] Google Sheets is her favorite business tool right now.

[38:29] She talks about where she would take me if I came to Charlotte and we went out for drinks.

[40:58] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources:

LucidChart

Find Emily:

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Meet The Team: Gracie Williams - Social Media Assistant

Jenn Bays — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400

It’s another meet the team episode! Gracie is our amazing social media assistant and she helps with all of the social media for our clients. She has been a fantastic asset to our team and to our clients and I’m excited for you to get to know her.

We met through pretty unconventional means. Her husband Isaac gives my horses pedicures every eight weeks or so and as we were talking one day, he told me all about his amazing, then girlfriend. Once we hopped on a call, I knew that we would hit it off great!

Since then Isaac and Gracie have opened up their own school of martial arts and she uses all the skills she’s learned to better market their business. Gracie is truly gifted in the social media world. Not only is it something that she loves, she also has a knack for creating huge growth.

Listen as we chat about her role, why she’s so perfect for it, and what she loves most about being on the Success Beyond the Lens team. I am loving introducing you to our team members and can’t wait for you to meet more.

In This Episode:

[01:09] Welcome to the show, Gracie!

[01:14] What she does for Success Beyond The Lens.

[04:03] Her role in the company and what she loves about it.

[06:40] Listen as Gracie talks about what a day looks like for her when she is engaging on social media.

[08:47] Her college education, her goals and what she wants to do in her life.

[12:49] What’s her favorite part of working for the company?

[16:39] Her favorite quote is “The grass is greener where you water it.”

[16:52] Instagram is her favorite business tool.

[17:11] Gracie shares where she would take Jenn if they were to meet up for drinks in Alabama.

[17:52] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources Find Gracie:

MadCity Kenpo

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers waitlist!

How To Manage A Funk

Jenn Bays — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400

No matter how long you’ve been in business, you know that there are days that just feel heavy. Those days are an indication that you need to stop and evaluate where those feelings are coming from. Listen in to hear my five tips for how to manage a funk.

When you’re having one of those bad days, the first thing you need to do is figure out what your non-negotiables are. What has to be done and cannot wait? Those are the only things you need to worry about.

If you have a moment to sit down and pinpoint where the funk is coming from, then do it. It may not be your funk that’s bringing you down, but if it is, try to cleanse it. For me that means writing it out and throwing it away.

If you can’t cleanse it, then it may be time to just call it a day and take a walk. Release the energy in whatever makes the most sense for you.

Now monitor the funk. Does it happen at certain times of the day? Month? Week? If it is a measurable funk, then plan your work around those bad days!

What do you do to manage your funk days?

In This Episode:

[00:43] Hey friends, thanks for joining me today!

[01:40] It’s normal to have days when you don’t want to work or you have no brain power left.

[04:47] Today I’m going to talk about five tips to help you when these days happen.

[05:03] The first thing you should do is figure out your non-negotiables that have to be done and only do those things.

[07:34] If you can sit down and pinpoint where the funk is coming from.

[10:15] Try to cleanse what is causing the funk.

[14:01] Step away and take a walk or figure out how to release the energy is the next tip.

[15:53] Monitor this funk and see if it happens at a certain time during the month regularly and plan your schedule around it.

[17:54] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

On Air Coaching Series: A Live Marketing Strategy Session with Leslie Amman

Jenn Bays — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Your marketing is less about getting a sale and more about connecting with the person you’re hoping will buy the product. The same is true for photographers. Listen as Leslie Amman of Weathered Frame Photography and I chat about her client processes and marketing to better capture the attention of her ideal clients.

Leslie is a portrait photographer based in Edmonds, Washington. She shoots families, branding sessions, and recently landed her very first wedding, but she’s most inspired by shooting people. No two faces are the same and she loves highlighting her client’s differences and strengths.

One of her biggest issues with client onboarding and lead capture has been a disconnect in systems. Rather than using multiple lead forms and contact sheets, we honed in that she needs to start using her HoneyBook CRM more effectively.

After we dig into her systems issues, it’s all about the marketing. We chat about her use of hashtags, creating captivating captions, and how she as a photographer should use Reels to boost her visibility.

This was another amazing on air coaching session and I loved how willing Leslie was to implement the changes we discussed. Stay tuned for our next session!

In This Episode:

[01:06] Welcome to the show, Leslie!

[01:22] Her background and what she is doing now.

[03:39] Why she got into photography.

[08:53] What she is struggling with and what she would like to see happen around the flow of getting new customers.

[11:02] My recommendation of using the contact form on HoneyBook.

[13:15] Why it is important to let your clients know what your email hours are and when you will respond.

[15:02] The difference between HoneyBook and Dubsado when streamlining your contact process.

[17:28] Time to dive into Leslie’s marketing strategy.

[20:45] Hashtags! How many you should use when marketing on Instagram.

[21:50] Leslie shares her strategy when writing captions.

[24:56] Marketing is less about getting a sale and more about the person you want to buy your product.

[27:20] The good and bad with captions I see on Instagram.

[32:06] Why you should create hashtag banks.

[33:55] All about Reels and how to use them to gain new followers.

[39:11] Leslie shares her favorite quote.

[39:40] Her favorite business tool is Squarespace and her website.

[40:36] Leslie tells Jenn where they would go and what they would drink if they met up in Seattle.

[42:09] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources Find Leslie:

The Weathered Frame

Email | Instagram

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers waitlist!

Meet The Team with Kayla Wells

Jenn Bays — Wed, 26 May 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Hey y’all! I’m Kayla. I feel really weird writing about myself in the third person, so I’m writing this like a podcast episode takeover! I’ve been working with Jenn since the conception of her podcast and it has been an amazing thing to watch her business grow and thrive as her podcast has grown.

I’ve been in the podcast management game for about three years now and I have loved learning more and more about marketing through the lens of podcasting. It’s this overall strategy that I bring to the table with my clients and why I’m passionate about using a podcast as a marketing tool.

Jenn and I are chatting about her podcast, the journey we’ve been on, and why photographers should or should not incorporate a podcast into their own marketing experience. Because while I love podcasting, I don’t think it’s a necessity for all business models.

For instance, if you never intend to step away from the work of photography or create additional income streams, then a podcast may not be the right fit for you. I’ve found that the work and investment of a podcast works best when you’re not only trying to educate your potential clients but also others in the industry.

So if you plan to stick with doing the work of photography without any other income streams, a podcast may not be right for you. It takes a ton of time, a ton of resources, and is not an “easy” marketing method when you’re doing it on your own.

Listen in to hear more about my thoughts and definitely let me know what you think about photography and podcasting. I’m always open to hearing different perspectives in the podcast universe.

In This Episode:

[01:09] Welcome to the show, my podcast manager, Kayla!

[05:14] Her role with Success Beyond the Lens and why she loves being a podcast manager.

[08:26] If you mess up on a podcast you just stop, regroup and restart, and the flub goes away with editing.

[10:33] What happened to SBTL during the pandemic and why we decided to launch the podcast, anyway.

[11:19] “Podcasting is fluid.”

[13:09] The podcast downloads have doubled continually over the last three months.

[15:44] Setting up a podcast from A to Z.

[19:08] Listen as Kayla discusses whether a podcast would be beneficial to photographers.

[21:46] Her number one tip if you want to start a podcast.

[23:57] Your podcast will evolve with your business but you must let your loyal listeners know if you are going to change up your podcast and what to expect.

[25:07] “Nothing is impossible, there are just varying degrees of possibilities.”

[26:08] Kayla’s favorite business tool is ClickUp.

[26:54] Kayla’s favorite podcast editing tools are Audacity and RX8.

[28:03] Kayla shares where she would take Jenn for a drink if she came to Texas.

[31:45] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources Find Kayla:

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers waitlist!

On Air Coaching Sessions: Choosing a CRM that Works Best For You with Emily Louick

Jenn Bays — Wed, 19 May 2021 05:00:00 -0400

I am so excited to bring to you this on-air coaching series. I’ll be bringing photographers and VAs onto the show to go over the sticking points in their business systems and giving the actionable advice that they can use to make their businesses run more smoothly.

First up, Emily Louick, an amazing photographer out of New York. She moved to Honeybook to help streamline and automate her client relationship process, but has run into some issues. Between having emails fall out of the project space and issues with sending multiple documents, we’re fixing her up.

Not all of her problems could be solved however because every CRM has their limitations. However, I’m giving her my work arounds and different ways to look at her processes and perhaps come up with more efficient workflows and tasks.

I’m excited to hear how our coaching session impacts the ease she feels in her business. Listen in to hear all about Honeybook and see if this is the CRM for you. We may be talking about issues that Emily is facing with the system, but that doesn’t change the fact that she still loves how much freedom Honeybook gives her.

What systems and processes do you need help with?

In This Episode:

[00:43] We’re kicking off the on-air coaching series with Emily Louick.

[01:19] Learn more about Emily and her business.

[02:29] Emily shares more about her background in television and film production.

[04:58] Just this year she went full-time in her business after initially trying in 2020.

[05:47] Why she chose Honeybook and why she loves it.

[07:01] What she’s struggling with in Honeybook.

[11:38] Who are the multiple people who need to be in a project?

[14:08] Jenn digs deeper into the main issue and provides a solution for multiple people in one workspace.

[15:28] Ways to make the client portal an exciting perk of working with you.

[16:41] One of the features that is lacking in most CRMs is conditional logic.

[18:17] The Honeybook scheduler is like its own island. Learn why.

[21:28] Emily asks for more clarification between using the tasks and workflows.

[22:57] Workflow triggers defined and how to map them out.

[25:21] Why do emails randomly pop out of the Honeybook system?

[27:55] How to work around sending contracts to multiple people.

[29:42] Is there a way to change the dates once a workflow has started?

[34:08] Jenn asks her three quick questions of Emily.

[36:58] Connect with Emily.

Links and Resources

The Steps to Setting Up Your CRM Correctly

Find Emily:

Emily’s Website

Emily on Instagram

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers waitlist!

Do You Need a Project Management Tool As a Photographer?

Jenn Bays — Wed, 12 May 2021 05:30:00 -0400

Project management tools. Do you need them? It depends. Listen as I share which tools are out there, which I recommend, and when I recommend that you use them.

For the most part, when used properly, project management tools make your life so much easier. When you’re running a business and have any number of team members however, they are essential.

As a photographer with no team, you can map out your tasks, link them to your calendar, and keep on track of your sessions and post-session work. As a virtual assistant, even if you have no team of your own, you can better manage and keep track of your client work!

When you have a team, project management tools help you to delegate work, centralize communication, and stay on top of both internal and external work.

If any of this excites you, listen in and learn all about different ways you can use project management tools to make your life and business run more efficiently and effectively.

In This Episode:

[00:43] Hey, friends, thanks for joining me today!

[01:53] Let’s chat about project management tools.

[02:33] Don’t confuse PMT for a CRM.

[03:16] My recommendation for a great project management tool is Clickup.

[04:24] My second recommendation would be Trello.

[06:17] If you are a solopreneur, you may think you don’t need a PMT listen as I tell you why that is not true.

[10:30] Having a bank of content is one exceptional benefit from having a PMT.

[11:04] You can also manage client work.

[14:04] You can create a workflow in both PMT and CRM, but PMT’s are more robust.

[16:16] I really recommend you use GSuite for your email listen as I share the benefits of it.

[19:05] Listen as I share why having a project management tool is essential when you have a team.

[24:04] It really makes sense to have a PMT whether you have team members or not.

[27:25] A bonus of having your team on your project management tool is that you give your team the autonomy to do the tasks that you need them to do.

[30:05] If you have questions about this, I would love for you to shoot me a DM.

[31:30] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Money Pitfalls to Avoid As a Photographer with Tanya Hirschy

Jenn Bays — Wed, 05 May 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Let’s get real. Dealing with the money aspect of our businesses isn’t always the easiest thing in the world. Thank goodness for people who thrive with numbers and financial planning. One of those people is Tanya Hirschy. She owns Tidy Books Boutique, an accounting firm designed with photographers in mind.

Tanya knows that not every photographer is interested in the numbers that comprise the backend of their business. Which is why she fully believes that rather than working on your weaknesses, you should outsource your weaknesses.

That being said the first thing you need to do when it comes to the money in your business is stop being reactive. Shiny object syndrome is great, but you need to have a plan for your money. Don’t make purchases and decisions based on your emotions, rather create a plan that you can follow and stick to it.

This episode is chock full of amazing information and money advice. Take a minute and listen in and start getting on top of your money today! It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been in business, you can always be better with your money!

In This Episode:

[00:58] Welcome to the show, Tanya!

[01:04] Tanya shares her business and what she does.

[02:45] Her background and her journey to bookkeeping.

[04:36] “Delegate your weaknesses!”

[05:42] The first thing you need to do is to stop being reactive in your business.

[08:48] Ways to prepare to celebrate successes while still staying in your financial goals.

[11:06] Other pitfalls she sees photographers fall into.

[13:10] You have to have the right people on your financial team and processes in place that are as automated as they can be.

[15:45] One actionable tip that you can do today.

[17:04] When you need more accounting software than just what is in your CRM.

[19:21] The three main buckets her company offers clients.

[21:05] Her favorite business tool is Loom.

[21:48] “Do something scary every day,” by Eleanor Roosevelt is her favorite quote.

[22:46] Coffee is Tanya’s favorite drink, and they would go to Jenn’s favorite coffee shop.

[23:44] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources Find Tanya:

Tidy Books Boutique

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Why Setting Client Expectations is Imperative to a Successful Business

Jenn Bays — Wed, 28 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0400

You’re leaving money and reputation points on the table if you don’t let your potential clients know when they can expect to hear from you. This is why setting client expectations is imperative to running a successful business. Not just a successful photography business. ANY kind of successful business.

Let me tell you a quick story, because I know that this has happened to others, and I want to be sure you’re not making this same mistake.

My mom’s aged dog was on his last leg. We knew he was going downhill but he’s been in our family for years, and I thought it would be a great idea to get some last photos of him for my mom and honestly for me too.

He was my little work buddy and we spent a lot of time together. Let’s just say, I wanted those photos.

I reached out to a local photographer that I really admire and I love their work, but I have YET to hear back from them. It’s been weeks y’all. Needless to say, we’ve since lost our family friend and it happened quicker than we expected so we never did get those photos.

But the real tragedy here is that this photographer set absolutely no expectations and has still not reached back out. Don’t do this!

Listen in to learn more about why you have to set client expectations from the start, no matter if you’re able to help them or not! Clients and customers understand when life happens. They don’t understand simply being ignored.

“I don’t have time to track down people I want to give money to.” Jenn Bays

In This Episode:

[00:43] Hey, friends, thanks for joining me today!

[02:17] I’m talking about why it’s important to set client expectations.

[04:09] If you know you are going to be delayed in getting back to people, let them know.

[06:46] I wanted to set an appointment for a photo shoot with my mom and her senior dog, but I never got a response from the photographer I inquired with.

[09:34] I love that particular photographer's work, but I probably won’t ever reach out to her again.

[11:02] If you can’t answer an email or set an auto response, that is a problem.

[13:26] It only takes the wrong impression from a few people to ruin your reputation.

[16:17] I have had this happen and seen it happen too many times to not bring it up on an episode.

[17:33] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers!

How Wedding Photographers Can Make Their Marketing More Inclusive with Taylor De La Fuente

Jenn Bays — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Inclusivity in marketing is a hot topic right now but how does that apply to wedding photographers? Taylor De La Fuente is a professional writer and copywriter who loves helping wedding photographers with their website copy. Her goal is to help photographers and business owners better understand inclusive marketing and infuse it into their message and culture.

Taylor has been writing professionally her entire career, but she has a passion for photographers. Inclusivity in copy has always been one of her pillars, but in recent months it has become a sought after ideal by many more business owners. Which is why she’s here to share her tips!

First off, because photographers are working with a visual medium, it’s important to showcase inclusivity in your work. Even if for whatever reason, to date your work has been mostly homogenous, you can still create styled photography that helps you appeal to a wider market.

But you have to walk the walk. Don’t do a styled shoot showcasing a gay couple with straight models. Reach out to models who live the diversity you’re hoping to attract, and don’t forget to pay them for their time and experience.

Taylor is full of great ideas and information but the most important thing to remember is that perception and knowledge and belief is constantly changing. Don’t be scared to do something wrong. Just remember that if you feel you need to be doing more, then do more and keep evolving as you learn more.

In This Episode:

[01:14] Welcome to the show, Taylor!

[01:19] Taylor shares her background and what she does.

[03:54] Her process of getting to know a new client.

[05:30] Her suggestions for stock photography and styled shoots.

[06:30] The definition of tokenism and why it’s not recommended.

[08:32] Where she suggests finding models.

[12:29] How to transition to a more authentic, diverse company.

[17:49] Banners, badges or phrases are okay to use unless you just put them in a header or footer, but your website shows something different.

[20:44] Words and phrases to get rid of and what to use in place of them.

[24:03] One actionable tip for today is that it doesn’t have to be hard. Don’t be scared you are going to do something wrong you can always update your website.

[26:01] Taylor’s favorite business tool is GSuite.

[26:19] To be the change you want to see in the world, is her favorite quote.

[26:38] In Dallas they would go to Botanist and drink French 75.

[27:50] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources Find Taylor:

Lemon Tree Editorial

Instagram | Email

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers waitlist!

Stop “Shoulding” Yourself

Jenn Bays — Wed, 14 Apr 2021 05:30:00 -0400

“I don’t live in a land of Instagram versus Reality.” - Jenn Bays

The “should’s” of life will kill your business faster than almost anything else. They kill relationships, they kill creative thought, they kill all the good things that you are building with your work in the world. So stop shoulding yourself and start giving yourself grace!

This episode is a tad different than anything I’ve done before. I’ve had a message on my heart to share and it’s been important in my life and my business, so I think it’s time.

I have allowed the should’s in my life to affect my business growth and my overall happiness for too long. In fact, it wasn’t until my therapist pointed some of them out that I realized I was crippling myself out of the fear of expectation.

What does that mean? Here’s a fantastic example. My son Davie goes to a private Montessori school that he absolutely loves. They also have after school care that he also REALLY enjoys. But in my haste to be the “best” mom, I thought I needed to pick him up right after school was done.

It didn’t matter that he liked staying after and it didn’t matter if I had more work to do and that doing it with him around would stress me out. I needed to be THAT mom. Then someone asked me why? Why did I need to get him even though it was better for both of us that he stay a little longer?

This same concept applies to cooking, cleaning, building your business at a pace that isn’t sustainable to you or your family. It applies to everything in life.

Stop shoulding yourself and allow the ebbs and flows to move you! Your life isn’t anything like the next person’s, and you don’t need it to be.

In This Episode:

[00:44] Hey, friends, thanks for joining me today!

[02:31] We need to stop shoulding ourselves!

[05:12] My therapist asked me who I am and all I could come up with is the roles I play in my life.

[07:10] I hate my body the way it looks now, but it came to a point where I realized that I needed to be thankful for what my body has given me.

[09:11] Allowing my son to stay in aftercare was a hard decision for me to make because I felt like I should pick him up early because I work from home.

[14:15] I know this episode is different, but I think these topics are very important to everybody.

[16:52] Whatever you are doing or fighting against doing because you want to please other people, stop!

[19:57] I always try to be as honest and upfront with my audience as I can. I want you all to know that I am human and I make mistakes.

[21:59] Have a great week!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers!

The Steps To Setting Up Your CRM Correctly

Jenn Bays — Wed, 07 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Looking to come across as a legit business owner? If you’ve been listening to this podcast for any amount of time, then I’m going to go ahead and believe that’s your goal. Then one of the most important things you can do is set up your CRM properly, from the get go!

After spending the last three years setting up CRMs for photographers, I have this process down pat...and I’m sharing the whole thing with you today.

This is a deep dive into creating all the assets you need to begin building workflows that automate your client relationship process! So if you’re able to listen to this while you have a notebook handy, do it!

The first thing we’re diving into is your current process. Don’t have one? That’s fine. What would you like your process to look like? What happens when someone books a call? What happens when they pay? What would you like to happen?

Start to write out the steps one by one!

Once you have the steps written out, it’s time to figure out what you need to make it happen. Are there emails? Forms? Surveys?

Listen in to hear all the details and let’s get your backend running like a well oiled machine!

In This Episode:

[00:44] Hey, hey friends, thanks for joining me today!

[02:05] Today I am getting really specific on the steps of setting your CRM correctly.

[04:22] First grab either some different color sticky notes, highlighters or crayons.

[05:03] Now I want you to start working on your flow or your process with your clients.

[06:18] When a lead comes in, what is the next step?

[10:05] If a customer wants to work with you, then you send a proposal.

[11:05] Once they pay the invoice, send a thank you for booking email.

[12:17] You keep clients by building the know, like, and trust factor.

[15:15] Think about what else you need to be part of the flow.

[18:09] Look at your flow and mark what you need, this is the secret sauce.

[21:02] The workflow you wrote down will be recreated in the workflow space in your CRM.

[24:00] Start with packages first.

[28:15] Have a great day and I’ll talk to you soon!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers!

The Key to Consistent Income As A Virtual Assistant

Jenn Bays — Mon, 05 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Did you know that the riches are in the niches? This is a popular saying that I didn’t put much stock in until I felt the change in my own business. If you’re ready to create consistent income, then listen in and learn why niching down is the key.

When I started my VA business, I was doing everything for everyone. I was doing social media, email management, calendar management, copywriting, graphics… you name it and I was doing it. I also didn’t niche down into any particular industry either.

I was working with photographers, but not exclusively. I had a bunch of different clients in a bunch of different industries, and I was doing a bunch of different tasks for each. Which means that I spent a great deal of my time just switching gears.

Fast forward to me realizing that I loved working with photographers. They were my absolute favorite clients and I loved doing all the things for them. Then I started to understand which tasks I liked and disliked.

As I learned more about my zone of genius and what I loved to do, I realized that the more I niched down my services for my ideal client, the more money I made.

Listen in to learn all the details and why I’m passionate about niching down as soon as it makes sense for you. The more you niche, the more streamlined your packages, and the easier it is to create retainer income for your business. Hence, niching is the key to consistent income as a virtual assistant.

Let me know your thoughts on this topic!

In This Episode: [00:47] Hey friends, thanks for joining me today!

[03:20] If you are just starting a VA business, this episode will give you the key to consistent income.

[04:22] The key to consistent income is niching down.

[08:04] When you first get started you need to understand you will work with different businesses doing different things so you will learn what you enjoy the most.

[11:14] A coach told me to really niche down, which is where Success Beyond the Lens was born and then the consistent income started.

[14:03] Niching down allowed my company to grow and now are sitting between 9,000 to 11,000 months consistently.

[17:49] Who do you want to work with?

[22:07] Becoming known for what you do will allow you to work less and make more money.

[26:19] You niche down to your ideal client, you niche down to a particular service, and then you charge a premium for that service and treat them really well.

[27:50] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

A-Z of Building a VA Business

Success Beyond the Lens Shop

Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers

Going From Hobbyist to Pro with Rhea Whitney

Jenn Bays — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

After spending years in the world of corporate finance, Rhea Whitney found herself asking, “Is this it?” It was that question, and the urging of her colleagues, that pushed her to learn more about photography. Later she realized that she could absolutely turn photography into her full time job and that’s exactly what she did.

Now she helps other aspiring photographers build businesses that support their lives and their dreams while still participating in her first love. Rhea initially built her business in Washington D.C., where she’d settled after graduating from Howard University. She later made the leap to move to Texas and is now based in Houston. Through it all she knew that she could make this work as long as she set her mind to it.

As she grew her wedding photography business, she started to hear from other photographers asking her how she’d done it. How had she built her business in two different locations and managed to be equally successful in both.

That’s when she started to understand the need for true mentorship in the photography space. Listen as she shares more about her story and why she’s so passionate about helping others to succeed in their dreams as well.

In This Episode:

[01:05] Welcome to the show, Rhea!

[01:24] Rhea shares her background and what she does now.

[03:29] Listen as Rhea shares that photography isn’t what she started out doing.

[06:18] How she ended up in Houston.

[10:55] Becoming an educator helping photographers grow their businesses.

[12:32] From Hobbyist to Pro launched in 2018 and she is now opening the fourth course.

[15:24] What Hobbyist to Pro is about and how it can help photographers.

[17:44] One actionable tip that you can use to help your business today.

[21:03] What lights her up about the photography industry.

[23:26] Learn about the mindset obstacles she has had to overcome.

[28:24] The affirmation and the positive things you tell yourself boost your confidence.

[30:21] Rhea gives some advice to people who need help to start their business, clean up their business or just learn how to run their business.

[32:50] Her favorite business tool is HoneyBook.

[33:29] We’d go to Pico’s or Ninfa’s and have some margaritas.

[34:08] “You have to be the change you want to see in the world.”

[35:28] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources Find Rhea:

@rheawhitney

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers waitlist!

The Tools You Need to Build Your Virtual Assistant Business

Jenn Bays — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 05:30:00 -0400

The best way to start a business is to just start. When it comes down to it, if you never start then you’ll never have a business. Believe it or not, there’s not a whole lot of overhead that comes along with starting a virtual assistant business, so I’m sharing the tools you need to build your business.

First up, a G-mail account. You CAN use another email platform, but your G-mail account will integrate with so many more tools and it opens up the use of other business tools that you’ll be in daily with your business. So just bite the bullet and sign up for a free account.

Next, you’ll want to sign up for a trial period with a CRM. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again (probably a hundred times more) but Dubsado and Honeybook are my favorites. Both have some really great trial periods and training that allow you to slowly but surely get acclimated with their platforms without having to pay in the beginning.

If you choose not to go with either of those platforms, then you’ll also need a scheduler. Something like Calendly or Acuity to get you started and be able to avoid the time suck that is created by trying to set up appointments in your DMs and email.

Honestly, that’s about it to get started. You need a way for people to contact you, a way to keep track of clients and projects, and a way to schedule potential client calls. Are there more tools to become familiar with? Of course, and you can find most of them in my free A-Z of Building a Virtual Assistant Business.

Listen to the full episode to hear some of my favorite bonus tools and to gain more insights on the tools listed above. Keep in mind. You have to start somewhere, so just get started!

In This Episode:

[00:47] Hey guys, thanks for joining me today!

[02:25] Start small so that you will start.

[04:04] The first thing you need is a Google or Gmail account.

[07:14] Sign up for a trial period for a free CRM, I prefer Dubsado or Honeybook.

[11:24] Having a scheduler which you can set up in either Dubsado or Honeybook is the next tool I suggest.

[14:07] The next tool I spent time with was Canva, a collaborative graphics creation suite.

[16:50] Trello is the project management tool that I used at first, but I now prefer Clickup.

[19:13] You want your “best” goal to feel you could reach it, but right now it feels out of reach.

[22:03] Artful Agenda is a bonus tool that I use in my business.

[24:45] Flodesk is a great email service provider to use as your business grows.

[26:01] I have created a freebie A-Z list of all the tips, tools, tricks that I have learned over the years.

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

A-Z of Building a VA Business

Success Beyond the Lens Shop

Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers

Dubsado

Honeybook

Strategically Planning Your Business with Amy Lockrin

Jenn Bays — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Having a strategic plan for your business is the key to wild growth. Don’t believe me? I’ve lived it. Amy Lockrin is an operations and systems strategist and coach who excels in helping her clients build businesses that they love. We’re breaking down how you can strategically plan your business so listen in and learn more.

Amy and I have known each other for years now. She’s my business bestie, my coach, and a former client. I have no idea where my business would be without her guidance which is why I thought it was imperative to have her on!

She has a way of cutting through all the fluff and getting right to the heart of the matter. Are you doing what you love each and every day? Not sure? How about you write down all the things you love about your business and love doing in your business.

Look back over the list and tell me, are those the things you’re doing every day? If the answer is no, then this is the episode for you! Listen in to hear all the tips and tricks you can use to get back to building a business you love!

In This Episode:

[01:08] Welcome to the show, Amy!

[01:35] Amy shares what she does and who she helps.

[04:01] Listen as Amy chats about her process and what she needs to find out from the client.

[07:37] It’s the small steps taken consistently that get you to your goal.

[08:37] Why strategic planning during set intervals is so important.

[12:41] Having a sounding board you can talk things through with is critical.

[15:14] Things you can put in place to stay on track.

[19:23] Make lists to get everything done.

[21:14] Determine what you want your ideal day or week to look like. Write it out.

[25:04] When and how to bring on someone to your team.

[28:41] Amy’s favorite business tool is Video Ask.

[30:01] Her favorite quote.

[31:07] Margarita’s on the rocks with salt on the rim is where it’s at.

[32:19] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources Find Amy:

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Join the Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers waitlist!

Starting Your Virtual Assistant Business

Jenn Bays — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

You’ve decided to become a virtual assistant. Now you’re probably asking yourself, where do I find clients? How do I make a real go at this new venture? On this bonus episode I’m digging into starting your virtual assistant business and building your client base.

First things first, did you know that you have your very own network of people to find clients in? No I’m not talking about popping into everyone’s DMs and spamming them. I’m talking about making authentic connections and informing people of your new venture organically.

Build up those relationships because when it comes down to it, successful online businesses value real connection.

Also know that you will constantly be learning. Join business Facebook groups that align with the services you want to offer. Join groups that are hot spots of connection and discussion. Join groups that give you the space to promote your business and offers.

Once you’ve joined, contribute to the conversation.

Another great way to start making connections and building your possible client pool is to attend conferences. Right now they’re all virtual but in the near future I imagine we’ll be seeing a form of hybrid conferencing. Make it a point to attend in-person if you feel safe doing so and make real business connections.

Starting your virtual assistant business and subsequently seeing success hinges on your ability to build relationships. (Introverted? There are business groups for you too!) Don’t be afraid to reach out and make meaningful connections and see where they take you!

In This Episode:

[00:45] Hey, hey friends, thanks for joining me today!

[04:06] When you are first getting started, reach out to the business owners that you already know.

[05:46] Join business Facebook groups, get your name out there.

[08:10] Build relationships.

[09:17] Learn the tools that people talk about often and use them for yourself.

[11:24] You want to go into your VA business knowing that you will always be learning.

[14:12] Building relationships are the key to any business.

[16:23] One of the best investments I made at the beginning of my business was attending a business conference.

[18:02] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Success Beyond the Lens Shop

Become a Virtual Assistant for Photographers

Stop Saying Yes to People You Should Say No To - 1-YEAR ANNIVERSARY EPISODE

Jenn Bays — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Your gut really does speak to you. SO LISTEN! Have you ever found yourself on a call with someone and you KNEW that they weren’t a good fit. But, instead of listening to your gut you started working with them anyway and it all fell apart? Me too! Listen in and learn how to stop saying “Yes” to people you should say “NO” to.

In the past 8 months or so, I’ve taken on a couple of clients that I knew weren’t a good fit. They either weren’t in my niche or they needed services outside of my scope of work and I knew as we were talking that I should say no. I didn’t. I let scarcity creep back in and decided to go ahead and take them on.

Which in the end was a disservice to them and to me. You see when you say yes to someone who isn’t a good fit for you or your business, both you and the client will feel it. They won’t be satisfied, you’ll feel trapped, and if you had only said no, they would likely have found the right fit.

So, after a year of giving advice and bringing on amazing experts, I knew that I had to talk about this topic. Photographers run into the same issues as every other service provider in that when you cross your boundaries, you’ll feel the strain.

Listen in to learn why you should get comfortable with the word “no” and ways that you can be sure you’re tuning into your gut.

Plus, happy 1-Year to the podcast!!

In This Episode:

[00:45] Hey, hey friends, thanks for joining me today on our Anniversary Episode!

[02:14] You need to quit saying yes to things you say no to.

[02:54] Stop working with people who are not a good fit.

[04:03] When you say no to the wrong opportunities, you leave yourself open to the good opportunities.

[07:22] When you say yes to something, make sure it aligns with your goals.

[09:34] Two times in the last eight months, I went into a client relationship that wasn't a great fit.

[12:38] Make sure you are working with your ideal client, who needs the services you provide and are willing to do those things within your boundaries.

[15:03] I parted ways with the two clients that weren't a great fit, and within thirty days, I replaced them with my ideal clients and made more money.

[18:01] To grow, we have to challenge those beliefs, doubts, and fears about ourselves.

[18:21] Tag me on Instagram when you say no to someone who isn't a great fit.

[19:48] Have a great week!

Links and Resources

How to run a Systemized Business - The Align with Alora Podcast

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

You Have the Skills to Be a VA

Jenn Bays — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Have you ever had a job of any kind? Managed a household? Babysat? Managed money in any form? Then you have the skills to be a VA! Don’t believe me? Keep listening.

The number one thing I hear from people who are considering moving to virtual assistant work is that they’re concerned they have nothing to offer. They’re concerned about the tech. They’re concerned about the time. They’re concerned about the taxes, legal, and owning their own business piece.

But mostly they simply do not believe they have the skills to help others online. Does this sound familiar?

Let me tell you a little story. I’ve held a lot of jobs. When I was younger I mucked out horse stalls for money. A few years later I started working with problem horses. This later changed to some training.

Then I moved into working in restaurants, retail, I even spent about a year as a bank teller. Fast-forward to becoming a mom and realizing the true meaning of “multi-tasking.” There isn’t a job that I’ve held that I haven’t learned some essential piece of working online.

Listen in to learn more about how your skills from traditional work transfer to the online world and becoming a highly sought after VA. You have the skills. Step one is realizing it and believing in yourself.

In This Episode:

[00:45] Hey hey friends, thanks for joining me today!

[02:32] You have marketable skills as a virtual assistant.

[03:33] The best tip I can give you is to go in and learn.

[08:00] If you have worked in fast food, you know how to multitask; you have marketable skills.

[09:48] I want to take a minute and talk to the stay at home moms.

[11:28] If you want to have a virtual assistant business, you will have a virtual assistant business.

[12:02] Grab a pen and paper and write down the tasks you do on a daily basis.

[15:23] You learn processes as you go along.

[16:59] I didn’t know that I would love customer service, so I created a business where I could do customer service.

[18:41] It becomes easier to serve one audience with a specific skill set.

[19:25] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How to Use Written Content to Stand Out in an Overcrowded Market with Erica Comitalo

Jenn Bays — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 06:30:00 -0400

You are not like anyone else, so why does your website sound like everyone else? You may not actually have this problem, but Erica Comitalo is a content and copywriter who exclusively works with photographers to unlock their unique voice.

She spends time listening to you talk about your clients and finding the words you naturally use to describe them. She then takes those words and crafts a subtle but effective message designed to positively repel any non-ideal clients while singing to everyone you want to work with.

Erica started out writing blogs and content but that quickly evolved into doing more brand voice related projects. Her passion is helping you connect with your ideal clients without making anyone feel judged or rejected.

I loved the positivity in Erica’s message and hearing all about her background and how she found herself working with photographers. The copywriting tips she’s sharing are also perfect for anyone struggling with the words they need for their business.

Tired of trying to figure out your own brand messaging? Use the links below to connect with Erica!

In This Episode:

[00:55] Welcome to the show, Erica!

[01:10] Erica shares what she does and how she got started working with photographers.

[03:20] Erica believes it is fun to make tried-and-true methods unique.

[04:06] Listen as Erica speaks about how she takes a client's personality and puts that in her content to speak to her ideal client.

[06:27] We want them to feel connected to you like they would a friend they are meeting for the first time.

[08:02] Emotions can be put into content and boost calls to action.

[09:30] Learn how to combat a client’s fear of repelling prospective clients.

[10:42] Subtlety is key, so build in little hurdles along the way.

[13:25] Language to use to showcase the kind of photographer you are.

[15:18] Erica shares how she helps clients navigate an overcrowded market.

[17:41] Start with your genuine personality and your sincere appreciation for your clients.

[20:09] Erica gives her views on cuss words on your website.

[24:26] The top three things you don’t want to do when writing copy.

[28:30] Think about who your ideal client is for the next year, don’t look too long term.

[31:11] Erica’s favorite business tool is Dubsado.

[33:04] “I’m not afraid, I was born to do this.” Is her favorite quote.

[34:12] Erica would take Jenn to Flounders and get a Bushwacker to drink.

[35:03] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources

Find Erica:

The Write Lens

@thewritelens

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How to run a Systemized Business - The Align with Alora Podcast

Learning To Ask For Help

Jenn Bays — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 06:30:00 -0400

First things first, there is nothing wrong with asking for help. In fact, as your business grows, your family changes, and your life evolves, you’ll need more help than you could ever imagine. I talk about it all the time but I knew I had to dedicate an episode to learning to ask for help.

I’ve mentioned it a few times on the podcast, but one of the first things that I outsourced was house cleaning. We have a toddler, large dogs, and horses. We need to have a clean house. But as the business has grown, I’ve had less time and much less desire to be the one that makes sure everything is spic and span.

Having that one day a week that I know the house will be spotless helps me manage one portion of my anxiety which is truly an amazing benefit.

Next I had to start outsourcing some of the tasks in my business. I knew that I needed help with the business, so I had to step out of my comfort zone and let go of some of the pieces. Needless to say, the business has begun to grow more and more steadily as I removed some of the pieces from my plate.

I’ve also started being more open about needing to ask for help in my personal life. I’ve always had general anxiety disorder but becoming a business owner and a mom has thrown some things my way that I needed to address.

So I’ve asked for help in those ways too.

More than anything, before you start getting help in areas, ask yourself if the fear of asking for help outweighs the benefits of receiving support. If your answer is no, then it’s time to start reaching out!

Have questions? DM on Instagram and I’d be happy to chat with you about it!

In This Episode:

[00:45] Hey hey friends, thanks for joining me today!

[01:45] Are you uncomfortable asking for help? Many people are.

[03:00] Listen as I share when I knew it was time to ask for help.

[05:51] Don’t overlook the people in your own home.

[08:09] Know that there is nothing wrong with asking for help!

[11:25] You will know it’s time for you to get help when things fall through the cracks or the anxiety of keeping everything together is getting too much.

[14:42] Don’t get caught up trying to do everything yourself.

[15:53] If you want to take your business to the next level, be prepared to be uncomfortable.

[18:21] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

The Importance of Niching Down in Your Business with Nicole Anderson

Jenn Bays — Wed, 24 Feb 2021 06:30:00 -0400

Ever heard that phrase in marketing that when you speak to everyone you speak to no one? I’ve found that many photographers fall into this trap. Which is why Nicole Anderson joined me to chat about the importance of niching down in your business.

I’m going to ask you a quick question and answer honestly, what type of photography do you do? Do you specifically do weddings and family? Branding? Boudoir? Or, have you fallen into the trap of doing ALL the photography?

If so, it makes marketing your services very difficult. Think about it, if you love boudoir photography, but your entire instagram feed is filled with maternity and family pictures, how are you going to stand out to your ideal audience? This is true for all business owners as well, not JUST photographers, but since photographers have built in marketing assets (i.e. your photos) it’s important to showcase the RIGHT ones.

Listen in as Nicole and I chat about her journey and what it took for her to finally niche down into branding photography. She’s also sharing why it was the best thing she’s ever done for her business and her clients and why she recommends niching as quickly as possible.

If your marketing seems to be all over the place, then you’ll want to pay close attention to this episode!

In This Episode:

[01:06] Welcome to the show, Nicole!

[02:59] Nicole shares when she niched down and why it took her so long.

[06:35] When you try to speak to everyone, you are speaking no one.

[09:16] Consistency is the key to social media.

[10:58] Listen as Nicole shares how to create content that captures someone's attention so they will be a lead in your inbox.

[13:13] The photo has to make you feel something.

[17:40] They discuss a good process for when it's time to niche down.

[21:12] Try things until you figure out what you love doing, trust your gut.

[23:37] How to become an expert at what you do so that you can raise your prices.

[27:53] Ready for an actionable tip that will help you figure out what you love to do?

[33:42] Focus on the social media platform that your ideal clients hang out on. You don't have to post on every platform.

[35:48] Nicole's camera is her favorite business tool.

[36:31] "People don't buy what you do; they buy why you do it."

[38:43] Nicole shares where she would take Jenn for a drink and what they would order.

[41:22] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources

Find Nicole:

Nicole Branderson

@nicolebranderson

@notbrandsurgery

Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Why You Need SOPs In Your Business

Jenn Bays — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 06:30:00 -0400

SOPs, or Standard Operating Procedures, are highly necessary for your business. Don’t believe me? Have you ever tried to hire someone but you didn’t know where to start because you couldn’t clearly define the role or need that you had?

If you had SOPs on hand, that wouldn’t be a problem. Then when you hired this person, you’d have a clearly defined set of how-tos and tasks that they’re responsible for. Plus, if they had any questions, you’d be able to refer them to the standard operating procedures for the tasks assigned.

Makes hiring sound a lot easier right?

Then take that thinking even further. Say you really needed to go on vacation because we all need a break sometimes. Would your business be able to run without you?

If you had the right SOPs in place along with the right team, then the answer to that question is yes! There are so many reasons to start creating SOPs for your business as soon as you can and the biggest is that you are not always available. Sometimes you have to take a break from your business.

Sometimes that break is forced upon you.

What will happen to your business if you have no way of handing off tasks to someone else in the meantime? Listen in to hear all of the reasons why SOPs are needed and then take a moment to start thinking about the processes in your business. Have you documented them?

In This Episode:

[00:45] Hey hey friends, thanks for hanging out with me today!

[02:27] The first reason for having SOPs in your business is for outsourcing.

[03:35] An SOP can be anything for your business and especially necessary if you intend to hire someone.

[05:09] Part of equipping a new employee is giving them the tools they need to do the job well.

[07:56] Here is the benefit of you owning the SOPs instead of someone who works for you.

[08:44] Reason three is if anything happens to you so that anyone in your business will know what to do.

[10:47] When my father passed, he didn’t have any SOPs in place so that my mom and I could handle his affairs easily.

[13:15] I know this isn’t fun to think about, but it's something that everyone should put in place.

[15:25] Pull up a google doc and write the process for each thing you do and label them appropriately. Having these things documented makes running your business easier.

[18:57] Thank you so much for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Storytelling - Not Just Taking a Photo with Deevo

Jenn Bays — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 06:30:00 -0400

It’s true. Photography is less about taking a photo and more about building a sustainable business with sound practices and procedures. Deevo joins me to chat about growing his own businesses and why he’s always known that it’s about more than just taking a photo.

We’re diving deep into his actual business practices and why it’s important to have processes that take your customer from inquiry through the final product. In fact, he never even considered building a photography business until he had a terrible experience with his wedding photographer.

It was then that he realized he absolutely could do it better.

But not without help. After building up the business and creating a streamlined machine, he realized that he needed help. Not just any help though, the right help. Which is when he learned a lesson in placing people in the right positions for them.

This was an amazing conversation. From top to tail we cover it all and even dig into the mindset it takes to build a successful business. One of my biggest takeaways? It’s all a work in progress. We are constantly working on ourselves and that progress shows itself in our businesses.

So, what are your takeaways from this discussion?

In This Episode:

[00:59] Deevo shares his background and businesses.

[03:36] Listen as Deevo discusses why he believes it’s not just about taking a photo.

[06:34] “Photography is the vehicle that allows me to create my craft.”

[10:47] There is a difference between taking a photo and creating a photo.

[12:09] His process from the first contact with a client through the final product.

[14:39] “If you are marketing to everyone you are speaking to no one.”

[19:03] Why you need to find talented people to help you grow your brand.

[24:03] Deevo talks about working for his business instead of running his business.

[27:20] Jenn believes you should outsource everything you can.

[34:29] We live in an instant gratification world and we’ve grown lazy.

[33:27] If you want to grow a business, you have to get into the trenches and it takes time.

[38:26] The mind is a fantastic recording device.

[40:44] A tip for anyone who is trying to create an experience for someone.

[43:27] The phone is Deevo’s favorite business tool.

[44:03] Deevo explains his favorite quote.

[49:42] Where we would go for a drink in Charlotte.

[51:23] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Deevo:

Fusion Photography

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How To Create A Marketing Process

Jenn Bays — Wed, 03 Feb 2021 06:00:00 -0400

Businesses need processes to run efficiently. If you’ve been listening for any amount of time, then you know that I love and appreciate all of the processes that help a business stay on track. The same can be said for your marketing processes, but so many times I’m asked about creating a true marketing process.

Honestly, no system or process is right for every business. However there are a few things that you can do to ensure that no matter the system you use, you have an efficient process for marketing and sharing your work.

First off, after you’ve completed a shoot, pull some of your favorite pictures from the shoot into a separate folder to share later across your social platforms. For instance, if you had a 10 picture gallery, pull your favorite 2 to 4 into a “marketing folder” that you pull from for your channels.

Then curate the pictures based on seasons, themes, or type. Whatever makes the most sense for your business and the type of photography you do. This makes it so much easier to find the right photo at the right time to share.

Now that you’ve separated out your best work and then further divided that work across themes, you can repurpose your work. Don’t JUST use it on your social channels. Include your photos in blog posts, in email newsletters, and anywhere else that you need graphics.

Plus, if you want to make the marketing and sharing process even easier, invest in a scheduling system that works across platforms!

The goal is to streamline your marketing and make it easy to find the content you need when you need it. What can you implement today to make your marketing just a little bit easier?

In This Episode:

[00:48] Thank you for joining me!

[01:46] Marketing needs a system too.

[02:47] Listen as I discuss why a marketing system is important.

[05:17] When you go into a photo shoot, you are creating that photo, use that content in your marketing.

[07:25] Tip #1 is to pull your favorite images from your gallery into another space.

[09:51] Tip # 2 is to curate your content.

[10:02] Repurpose your content is tip three.

[12:37] I recommend you start a newsletter if you don’t already have one.

[13:34] I also believe you should use a scheduling system.

[17:03] If you use the same workflow for your marketing process every time, it will save you time.

[23:28] The reason you want to create a marketing process is to streamline your marketing.

[25:10] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Creating An Impactful Business with Lisa Staff

Jenn Bays — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 06:30:00 -0400

Creating impact is the goal of most every business owner I know. But how does one go about creating an impact when much of their work is local? Listen as Lisa Staff shares the impact she has created through photography in her tiny community of Hilton Head and why relationships are the key to impact.

Over the course of 20 years Lisa has brought her own special flair to the world of photography. She captures life moments, branding, editorial images and more all with the goal of telling stories that we all connect with. The love she has for photography and storytelling is evident in her body of work and in the way she approaches each session.

But how has her passion created impact?

More than anything, the realization that building relationships generates impact was what set Lisa on the path of transcendent creation. Her goal is of course to have clients come back over and over again during their life’s moments, but also to build a relationship of trust and understanding that makes them feel unbelievably comfortable.

Listen as Lisa digs into her path in photography, the role of social media, and why impact is solely created through dynamic relationships. She is such a vibrant personality and the vigor she has for life shows in the way she discusses her one true passion.

In This Episode:

[01:11] I am so excited to have Lisa on the show!

[04:34] Lisa speaks about how she got started in photography.

[07:21] Listen as they discuss how women underestimate their powers.

[11:25] Lisa discusses how she has created an impactful business.

[16:17] Boundaries are important when you own a business for yourself and your team.

[21:07] Lisa talks about how to know you are creating a business that has a long-lasting impact.

[25:42] Lisa shares how networking has cascaded into some of the best relationships and the growth of her business.

[29:55] Lisa speaks about some things she does to fill her bucket and allow her to enjoy what she does.

[33:58] Start by starting is one tip Lisa has for anyone wanting to start their own business.

[35:44] HoneyBook is Lisa’s favorite business tool.

[36:23] Start by starting is Lisa’s favorite quote.

[37:35] Lisa shares where she would take Jenn to get a drink in Hilton Head.

[40:04] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Lisa:

Lisa Staff Photography

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Strategies for Retaining Your Clients

Jenn Bays — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 06:30:00 -0400

Unless you’ve built your photography business specifically around one big milestone in a person’s life, I’m looking at you wedding photographers, then client retention strategies are huge. Client retention is one of my favorite topics to talk about, so listen in to learn strategies for retaining your clients as a photographer.

First of all, first impressions make a huge difference. I love bringing on a new client and then getting to send them a welcome gift. They feel appreciated, I’m leaning into one of my own personality traits, and they know that I’m serious about our time together. The same can be said for your business. Something quick and easy that reminds your client of how much they mean to you.

Then of course follow that up with under promising and over delivering. This is true for every business. If you know that you can get the deliverables to them in 24hours then let them know that the time frame is 48 to 72hours. When they get them sooner than expected they’ll be impressed and feel like they were a priority to you.

Also, set expectations up front. This can be done in the form of a Welcome Packet and initial onboarding email (Highly Recommend!) and will establish boundaries right from the beginning. Everything from hours of operation, how to communicate with you, expectations on deliverables, etc.

A welcome packet makes it so much easier to keep everyone on the same page.

If you’ve loved these tips, then listen to the entire episode to find out my absolute favorites. Client retention is huge in photography. You want to become their lifetime photographer. If they have a big milestone you want to be the first person they think to call.

If you start implementing these ideas, then you WILL be the first one they call!

In This Episode:

[00:45] Thank you for joining me!

[01:13] Learn about the little things you can do to retain clients.

[03:45] One of my tips is to give clients a welcome gift to let them know you are glad they are working with you.

[07:22] Why you should under promise and over deliver..

[07:50] Set expectations upfront so they know what they can expect when working with you.

[10:41] I like to let my clients know I am thinking about them by sending them a little something for their birthday or anniversary, and it doesn’t have to be extravagant.

[11:20] The next thing you can do to wow your client is to be prepared.

[13:45] Let them know that you love their business the same way they love it.

[14:36] My final tip is to go above and beyond for your client.

[18:20] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

The Value of Print and Why Clients Need It and Want It with Angelica Pompy

Jenn Bays — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 06:00:00 -0400

Have you ever considered switching your sales process to in-person? When Angelica Pompy decided to do it she saw huge changes in her business and now she knows she’d never go back. Listen in to hear more about her story, her photography, and why she’s a firm believer in in-person sales.

Angelica has always loved the art of photography. Creating a safe space for her clients to realize that being in front of a camera doesn’t have to be scary and awkward is one of her favorite things to do. She’s also dedicated to being your forever photographer.

What does that mean?

Think of any and every special occasion in your life and KNOWING that you want Angelica there to capture your memories. That’s a forever photographer. It’s all in how she makes you feel from the consultation all the way until you’re seeing your very own breathtaking wall art.

She truly prides herself on making the entire process of hiring a photographer an experience that you want to repeat over and over again. Which is how you make in person sales a highly effective way of boosting your bottom line and providing one of a kind service.

Angelica is sharing it all in this episode. If you’re ready to see how in person sales can and will change your photography business, then listen in and get ready to take notes. You’ll never want to go back to the usual sales process when you realize how fulfilling it is to make sales with real people.

In This Episode:

[00:58] I am so excited to have Angelica on the show!

[03:33] Angelica shares how she got started in photography.

[06:16] Listen as Angelica discusses being published in Elle Magazine.

[09:30] Learn more about in person sales and how valuable it can be.

[14:13] Hear all about the editing style she has perfected.

[16:05] Why adding a song to the portrait presentation just adds to the experience.

[18:10] Angelica discusses the transition to printed photos and how she educated her clients to the change.

[20:42] Listen as Angelica shares how IPS has quadrupled her business.

[23:44] Quick tips on how to price your work.

[28:24] How she handles her work life balance.

[33:46] One tip for anyone wanting to start IPS.

[35:32] Dubsado is Angelica’s favorite business tool.

[36:20] Angelica shares her favorite quote.

[36:38] If you and I were to grab a drink in Jacksonville, where would we go and what would we drink?

Links and Resources

Find Angelica:

Pompy Portraits

@pompyportraits

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

What's On Tap for 2021?

Jenn Bays — Wed, 06 Jan 2021 06:00:00 -0400

2021 is starting off big for Success Beyond the Lens. We just launched a brand new website, a new course is opening up soon, and we’re officially opening up Done in a Day system setups! It’s going to be a great year and I wanted to start it off right. Letting you know my hopes and goals for the year and by sharing my word for the year.

My word for this year is “trust.” Trust isn’t something that comes easily to me in many cases, but for this year I’m looking to trust in myself that I can make big changes and shifts in my business and life. I’ve got this.

It falls in line with my phrase from 2020. Nothing is too big. I am able to do the big, hard things and my business will absolutely grow. It’s amazing to see how that mindset shift has impacted this past year in business.

But 2021 has even more to offer. Keep an ear out to learn more about the launch of my first Virtual Assistant course and program. It’s going to be an amazing way to learn more about the needs of photographers and how you can be the one to assist them.

This is going to be the year of working less and making more and I’ve got the business plan to do it. Listen in to hear all about what this year has on tap for Success Beyond the Lens and how you can implement some of this into your own business.

Let’s do this y’all!

In This Episode:

[00:44] Welcome to the first episode of 2021.

[02:28] I am so excited to share the launch of my new website, please check it out!

[07:30] My word of the year for 2021 is Trust.

[11:03] I am officially launching Done In A Day setups.

[12:22] Are you ready for my first new Virtual Assistant course? SURPRISE!

[17:46] Listen as I explain how you can work less and make more.

[19:27] It is going to be an amazing year!

[23:40] Thank you so much for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Building A Story Brand by Donald Miller

Episode Reboot: The Importance of Education as You Grow Your Photography Business with Joy Michelle

Jenn Bays — Wed, 30 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0400

Do you believe it’s possible to go from being a graphic designer to a booked out wedding photographer in eighteen months? Listen to my guest, Joy Michelle, and I chat about how she did it, the importance of branding, and much more on this episode.

Joy is an intimate wedding photographer, a YouTuber, and a coach to other creatives like herself. She helps photographers go from passionate to profitable through courses, her Facebook group Photo Boss, and coaching.

Learn how she got her start in photography, why she believes education is so important when building a small business, and why she teaches and coaches today. Joy also shares the one book she thinks everyone should read called Building a Story Brand by Donald Miller and his course Business Made Simple University.

Joy shares her course Hook and Book Brides, one mistake she made when building her business and why it is so important to niche down and market to your ideal clients. She also gives one piece of advice for anyone who is thinking of becoming a wedding photographer.

Joy and I finish up with three final quick-fire questions, where she shares that HoneyBook is her number one business tool. This was such a fun and exciting conversation so grab a margarita and join us.

In This Episode:

[00:43] Hey there, friends!

[01:33] Joy, thank you for joining me today.

[03:01] Can you tell us where you got your start and how you got to where you are today?

[06:06] Joy shares why she believes education is so important and why she teaches and coaches today.

[07:28] What book would you suggest a person wanting to be a wedding photographer should read?

[09:47] Joy speaks about one mistake that she made that she doesn’t want anyone else to make.

[12:00] Joy discusses her course Hook and Book Brides that focuses on marketing and branding.

[14:30] Joy speaks about marketing to her ideal clients and niching down to be memorable.

[16:01] What is one piece of advice that you would give listeners today?

[16:51] Joy shares what her favorite business tool is and why.

[19:37] What is your favorite quote?

[20:17] What is your favorite nightcap?

[20:57] Thank you so much, Joy, for coming on the show today!

Links and Resources

Business Made Simple University with Donald Miller

HoneyBook

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Find Joy:

Joy Michelle Photography

Hook and Book Brides

@joymichellephotography

Facebook | YouTube

@joyymichelle

Pinterest | Instagram | Twitter

Episode Reboot: The Dos and Don'ts of Finances with Katelyn Magnuson

Jenn Bays — Wed, 23 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0400

It doesn’t matter if you like numbers or not, as a business owner you have to understand your money. Katelyn Magnuson is the freelance CFO and knows how to help you work through your numbers to reach your goals.

Katelyn spent her 20s moving through various roles between corporate and the online space. What she learned is that our parents’ and grandparents’ way of doing money… no longer works.

We chat about how you can set yourself up for success and which money habits you need to establish now. Here’s the thing… it’s easier to make money than to save money… so how can you start making more money?

Listen as Katelyn shares her best tips for approaching your taxes and how you can find more write offs. Check out Katelyn’s site if you know you need help getting your numbers in order now!

In This Episode:

[01:27] Welcome to the show, Katelyn!

[02:13] Katelyn shares a little of her background and how she got where she is today.

[05:06] Katelyn speaks about things she does in her business and where she feels she is the strongest.

[06:08] What do you mean by, “you are not your parent's money expert?”

[08:12] Katelyn discusses the financial strategies that she shares with her clients.

[10:13] They speak about Dave Ramsey and how her beliefs differ from his even though the end goal is the same.

[11:49] Are you focusing on a scarcity and lack mentality and staying broke instead of flourishing?

[13:13] Katelyn shares some photography do’s for taxes.

[15:32] You must have a separate bank account to keep your business and personal assets protected.

[16:14] Keeping receipts and having accounting software is very important.

[18:46] Which accounting software do you recommend?

[20:39] Anything $75 dollars or over the IRS wants a receipt.

[22:52] Katelyn speaks about traveling for an event, but you stay longer, how the IRS looks at those expenses.

[25:53] Mileage is a big write off, but there are some caveats that you need to understand.

[29:00] Katelyn shares her biggest don'ts.

[31:08] Should businesses accept Venmo for payment of services?

[33:33] Katelyn gives her number one tip for listeners today.

[34:30] What is your favorite quote?

[36:01] Hubdoc and Xero are Katelyn's favorite business tools.

[36:56] If we went out for a drink, what would you order?

[38:13] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Find Katelyn:

Katelyn Magnuson

@thefreelancecfo

Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest

Episode Reboot: Which CRM is Right For You?

Jenn Bays — Wed, 16 Dec 2020 06:00:00 -0400

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again… and again… and again… You HAVE to have a functioning and efficient CRM to grow and scale your business. Now how you use the CRM may be different depending on the way you run your business, but not having one is not an option. (I mean it is… but only if you’re not looking to grow!)

So the first thing to consider is how much automation you want or need to have. What does that mean? So many things! When someone completes a lead form, do you want an email to automatically go out? If they respond and book a call for a specific service, do you want a call prep email to go out? If they sign on the dotted line of your contract, do you want the invoice to immediately follow?

Dubsado is going to have way more options for automation, but not every business NEEDS a ton of automation. Which is why the first thing you need to contemplate is what you want and need your CRM to do beyond housing your lead and client information.

The other thing to think about is ease of use. How techy are you and how detailed do you want to get with your automation? Honeybook is hands down the easier platform to use, but Dubsado allows you more freedom with automation triggers and scheduler options.

Listen in as I go through both of these amazing platforms. If you have questions or just want to know more about how you can implement a CRM in your business, click here to book a strategy call.

In This Episode:

[01:47] Learn more about CRM's and why you need them.

[02:30] Jenn shares the podcast schedule through the rest of the year.

[04:18] The first question you should ask yourself is, how much automation do you want or need to have?

[04:56] Dubsado gives you more options for automation than HoneyBook does.

[07:48] HoneyBook beats out Dubsado on ease of use.

[09:59] Both CRM's have a scheduler, and they both work well, but there are a few things you need to be aware of.

[11:38] Dubsado gets points for integrating the scheduler into their workflow process.

[12:36] Jenn likes both system's ability to create different funnels based on where your clients are within your process.

[14:49] Branding is something that Dubsado does that HoneyBook doesn't.

[16:00] The client experience is better on the HoneyBook system.

[18:27] Jenn recaps the important questions to ask yourself before deciding on a CRM.

[18:48] Do you have the time and money to invest in learning Dubsado? Dubsado has a higher learning curve.

[20:52] Thank you for listening to the show!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Discount Codes:

Dubsado - jbays913

Honeybook - JennBaysVA

Recap of The Year 2020 In Business

Jenn Bays — Wed, 09 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Coming into 2020, I like many others, had big plans, dreams, and expectations. Despite the way it has actually turned out, I’ve still hit some big goals and made some huge changes. Looking back, this has been a great year for my business and my life and I’m so excited to recap it in this episode.

Covid really seemed to take over all aspects of my life when the lockdowns happened. I went from having my son in daycare and working in my office to having Davie home and having to abandon my office. Which put a wrench in the amount of time I actually had to work.

Sound familiar?

But this experience made me accomplish something that I’d been working toward for at least half a year. I finally niched down and started focusing on one specific type of client. I had already started this process but I really dug in and got even more adamant about only taking on the “right” type of client.

Which led to me having some of my biggest months in business to date. Because I could focus on creating content specific to my ideal clients and I’ve been able to use this podcast to drive my content production. So I’ve had more time to speak with potential clients and up my conversion rates.

It’s amazing what high pressure, major changes, and factors that you can’t anticipate or change will do for your business when you’re determined to make it work. Listen in to hear all of my revelations and how 2020 has played out overall. Let’s make 2021 the best one ever!

In This Episode:

[00:46] Thank you for listening to this first year of the podcast.

[02:42] I’m sharing all the goals I had for 2020.

[05:09] … and then Covid happened.

[08:16] Working with a toddler is not for the faint of heart.

[13:00] But it really helped me to narrow down my focus and to put more effort in revenue generating activities.

[18:16] Which means 2020 has been my best in business so far.

[19:00] I’m even growing a team now.

[24:46] My hopes for the end of 2020 as we move into 2021.

[27:26] Thank you so much for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Leveling Up During A Pandemic

A Conversation On Up Leveling Your Business During Hard Times with Diji Shujahi

Jenn Bays — Wed, 02 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

After surviving an abusive relationship, starting over from scratch with her parents, and then building a business that she’s proud of, Diji Shujahi found herself stranded due to Covid. Listen as she shares her story and why all of the twists and turns have led her right to where she’s supposed to be.

Diji grew up in Abu Dhabi, far from her family’s Indian roots. After she finished school her parents set her up in a disastrous arranged marriage. She got to stay in Abu Dhabi for a time, but when her ex-husband began to abuse her and her kids she knew she had to leave.

So she packed up her family and went back to her parents. There she rebuilt her life and created a business that she’s extremely proud of. At the beginning of 2020 she was set to participate in an event for her company and found herself stranded in the Philippines while her parents are watching over her kids.

She has not been allowed back home since.

Listen as she shares how she’s spent her time, why she’s considering a move to the Philippines, and why, despite the hardship of being separated from her kids, she’s excited about her time there.

Diji has such an inspiring story and you won’t want to miss it.

In This Episode:

[01:09] Welcome to the show, Diji!

[01:26] Diji shares her background and how she began her entrepreneurial journey.

[11:41] Listen as Diji discusses what she loves and how she made it happen.

[16:25] Diji speaks about being locked down in the Philippines since the pandemic started.

[20:05] Diji shares how devastated she was when she couldn’t leave and go home to her children.

[23:29] Leveling Up During A Pandemic is the book Diji wrote during her time in the Philippines.

[29:36] Diji speaks about the show she will host in the Philippines soon.

[31:19] Why I went back to therapy.

[35:58] Diji discusses who her nine influencers appear in her book.

[39:55] Diji shares what she wants the listeners to take away from this conversation.

[41:28] Trello and Canva are Diji’s favorite business tools.

[43:00] Diji shares her favorite quote.

[47:21] Diji talks about where she and Jenn would go and what they would drink if they met up in the Philippines.

[48:56] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Diji:

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Preparing for Proposal Season

Jenn Bays — Wed, 25 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Proposal season is coming! Are you ready? Honestly, by the time you listen to this podcast it will already be upon us, but as long as you start implementing some of these tips each day, you will be golden.

So, take the time to enjoy Thanksgiving, finish up your fall sessions and editing, and then it’s time to get down to business on your marketing plan!

One of the best ways to approach proposal season is to make sure that you have your organic feeds up to date and feeling current. You don’t have to post multiple times a day or even daily. Up to four times per week is optimal to make sure that you always have fresh content.

Then as usual, be sure to hone in on the hashtags that are important to your area. Look up things like engaged in a pretty location in your area, or recently engaged and your city. There are so many ways to approach this, but have your hashtag strategy laid out so you don’t waste any time.

Also, don’t forget to pitch yourself as you engage with people on social media. When it comes down to it, you have to ask for the sale. So don’t be afraid to ask.

Listen in to hear all my tips and tricks and stay tuned to get special information on my upcoming CRM training!

In This Episode:

[00:45] Welcome to the show!

[03:55] Hear some social media tips to get you ready for proposal season.

[10:48] When engaging with people on Instagram, make sure to pitch yourself and other vendors that you work with.

[14:24] Some quick CRM Tips.

[15:25] I’m doing CRM training! Join the email list and get a special Dubsado workflow training.

[19:04] The sale is in the followup.

[21:30] Have a followup plan with potential clients.

Links and Resources:

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Knowing When To Build a Team with Morgan Nagle

Jenn Bays — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Building a national photography business is certainly not easy, but for Morgan Nagle staying local was never the plan. A year after starting her business she had to move and she realized that she didn’t want to miss out on the growth she’d seen in that market. Listen as she shares her story and how she’s begun to build a team to better serve her clients.

Being able to photograph couples and clients around the nation is a dream come true for Morgan. She now travels all over the country with open dates and sells her packages in person. This shift has helped triple her income even during this pandemic.

It was then that she realized that she needed to build out her team so that she could work with more clients over more space. She’s sharing how she built her team and how she’s managed it as her business grows. But building a team wasn’t her original goal.

Listen as she shares her tips, her tricks, and why building a team has changed her business and her life. Morgan has learned so much as she’s grown her business over the past few years and she’s sharing it all with you today. You won’t want to miss out on her brilliance.

In This Episode:

[01:12] Welcome to the show, Morgan!

[04:14] Morgan discusses moving her business from Ohio to Tennessee and how she branded to make the relocation easier.

[07:21] Morgan shares some locations she has done photoshoots.

[10:18] Listen, as Morgan speaks about the growth of her company in 2020, even with the pandemic.

[14:11] She discusses the transition from being a solo photographer to have associates that can take over.

[19:26] Morgan speaks about her hiring process when adding team members.

[22:27] Morgan discusses what 2021 looks like for her business.

[25:20] Morgan believes that in-person sales are imperative if you want to have a sustainable photography business.

[29:31] Listen as Morgan gives a tip for anyone wanting to grow their team in 2021.

[31:08] HoneyBook and Fundy are Morgan’s favorite business tools.

[31:43] Morgan shares her favorite quote.

[34:54] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources

Find Morgan:

Morgan Nagle

@heckdesigns

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Managing Anxiety As A Business Owner

Jenn Bays — Wed, 11 Nov 2020 14:43:54 -0400

I have had anxiety my entire life. At times it has been crippling and other times it’s just an annoyance but either way anxiety is something I live with and battle. Becoming a business owner, and all the things that it entails, has had me re-evaluating how I manage my anxiety and ways to productively push through.

I didn’t always know that I had anxiety. In many ways I thought I was just paranoid or that it was normal to immediately think the worst of every situation. It took an old boss of mine pointing out that my thoughts and the narrative in my head were not normal for me to realize that I might have anxiety.

Before starting my business I decided to see a therapist because I didn’t want to just assume what was wrong with me. I wanted to know. Anxiety is not something to lessen or to downplay. It is very real and it can be debilitating.

Going to therapy helped me to develop coping mechanisms and helped me reframe my thoughts. Now I use those coping mechanisms to approach each and every day in my life and business and it has been a game changer.

Listen as I share my thoughts on gratitude and manifestation as ways to cope with anxiety. Almost every business owner that I know deals with some form of anxiety, but this episode is not just for them. If you struggle with anxiety, listen as I share ways that you can battle anxiety in a positive and productive way.

Stop beating yourself up when things aren’t flowing. Use the techniques to stop, reframe, and refocus.

In This Episode:

[00:45] Hey, hey friends, welcome to the show!

[02:31] My experience with anxiety.

[04:18] More about doomsday anxiety.

[06:28] Why I reached out to a therapist.

[08:07] My true diagnosis.

[11:20] Why I write things down and have a gratitude journal.

[14:30] You have to reframe the thoughts in your brain with positive reinforcement.

[18:11] An exercise I use to manage my anxiety.

[22:13] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources:

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

How to Build a Successful Senior Photography Business From Scratch with Hope Taylor

Jenn Bays — Wed, 04 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Building a successful business takes time, dedication, and drive. Building a successful business while still in high school? That takes grit and determination as well. Hope Taylor was able to do it and she is sharing her story and how she managed a successful relocation to build her business bigger than ever.

Hope started her photography business as a junior in high school, but senior year it really started to take off. She was doing senior portraits for her peers and realized that she loved it. After convincing her parents that this was the path she wanted to take, she registered her business and things really took off.

She has since moved into wedding photography and has built a successful course to help other photographers start their business off right. It hasn’t been easy, but it has been one hundred percent worth it.

In 2019 she moved from her hometown of Fredericksburg, VA to Charleston, SC and essentially had to start from scratch. She was able to do it by strategically using social media and dialing in her marketing strategies.

Listen as Hope shares more about her journey, all of her transitions, and what it has taken to pursue a full-time business right out of high school. She’s been doing this for years now and has so much to say on what it takes to build a business right now. You won’t want to miss this!

In This Episode:

[01:34] Welcome to the show, Hope!

[02:43] Hope was a senior in high school when she first started her photography business.

[06:20] How she managed to get her dad on board with starting a business versus going to college.

[07:49] Listen, as Hope discusses transitioning to a new area where people didn't know who she was and how she built her company back up.

[12:11] Hope believes there has to be a strategy behind networking.

[15:23] Hope doesn't use Pinterest as much as she does Instagram.

[16:51] Educating is something that Hope has always done because she likes to help photographers pursue their dreams.

[19:58] Hope shares that they have completely revamped her course, and it will reopen the first week of November 2020.

[20:47] Her course is a complete from start to finish course of her senior portrait client experience.

[23:19] Hope gives her best tips for people who want to be a senior photographer.

[24:54] HoneyBook is Hope's favorite business tool.

[25:37] Hope shares a couple of her favorite quotes.

[26:41] If we were to grab a drink in Charleston, where would we go, and what would we drink?

[27:56] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources

Find Hope:

Hope Taylor

Instagram | YouTube | Pinterest

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Preparing To Be Booked Out In 2021

Jenn Bays — Wed, 28 Oct 2020 08:00:00 -0400

If you’re ready to get your books overflowing for 2021, then you need to focus on your marketing strategy. Listen as I share the best ways to stay on top of your marketing today in order to build your business in the coming year.

First things first, you have to know that 2021 is going to be huge for photographers. Many people had to move their weddings from 2020 to 2021 and as such, will be looking to re-establish communication and relationships with their vendors.

You need to work on your marketing plan and your overall visibility. How can you do that? First you need to pick a social platform and stick with it. Where are you getting your leads? Where are people finding your business?

That is where you need to focus your time. Then you need to be sure and always showcase your best work. Make sure that your page is filled with amazing photos of beautiful weddings. Indoor, outdoor, a mixture of both. Show the world what you can do.

Then double down on your hashtag research. Dig in and make sure that you are covering all of your hashtag bases so that people in your area find you when they start searching for photographers.

I have so many more tips and advice for ways to get your 2021 calendar booked. Listen in to hear them all!

In This Episode:

[00:48] Welcome to the show!

[01:47] Jenn believes that 2021 is going to be bigger for photographers.

[04:39] It’s important that your marketing showcases your best work consistently.

[06:16] Pinterest is important for your marketing strategy.

[07:12] Focus on the platform you are already getting leads from.

[09:52] Make sure you are getting testimonials for the clients you are working with now.

[11:15] you must engage with potential clients.

[14:08] Have your systems ready to go.

[17:58] Thank you so much for listening!

Links and Resources:

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Equine Photography with Erica Hills

Jenn Bays — Wed, 21 Oct 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Horses are amazing creatures. They can help you make a living in so many ways, but they’re also intuitive, kind, caring animals that deserve all the love and attention you can give. Erica Hills has always loved horses, but when she realized that she could combine her love of horses with her passion for photography she knew she’d found her calling.

She initially went to college to pursue a degree in psychology. In fact she earned her Bachelors and later went back for her Master’s as well. But a career in counseling teenagers coupled with a lack of concern for herself led to a state of burnout. She knew there had to be something better.

Luckily she already had a pretty decent camera and connections with several friends who had horses and stables which were imperative to her equine photography business. And that, as they say, was that. She has since made leaps and bounds in her business and is quickly becoming known as the go to equine photographer in her area.

Listen as we chat about her background, her love for school, and why she’s so happy she’s made the change into this new business endeavor. To think that she owes it all to a podcast that she used to listen to where she was first introduced to the world of equine photography!

You won’t want to miss this amazing story.

In This Episode:

[02:13] Welcome to the show, Erica!

[03:06] Erica shares how she got started in equine photography and what she is doing now.

[05:10] Listen as Erica speaks about her psychology degree, school counseling, and the transition into photography.

[08:23] How she found out about equine photography.

[10:04] Erica shares some mentors that have helped her the most in her career.

[10:40] Equestrians of Color is a new project that Erica and some others just launched.

[13:30] Erica gives one tip for anyone who wants to become an equine photographer.

[15:21] “Sometimes people don’t take your pursuit seriously, and it can be frustrating.”

[17:16] Erica discusses the conventions she has gone to that have been the most beneficial.

[19:05] Jenn speaks about a retreat she put together with a client before the pandemic.

[21:09] Erica shares what she practiced, giving her the confidence to build a business.

[22:53] Sometimes, you win, and sometimes you learn.

[27:03] Canva is Erica’s favorite business tool.

[30:01] Erica shares her favorite quote of all time.

[30:52] Erica speaks about where she would take Jenn for a drink and what they would drink if she came to her area.

[33:48] Thank you for being on the show!

Links and Resources

Find Erica:

Erica Hills Photography

Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Mindset Shifts You Can Implement Today To Improve Your Business

Jenn Bays — Wed, 14 Oct 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Did you know that your successful business starts with your thoughts and your mindset? If you surround yourself with negative self-talk and limiting beliefs, then you’re likely not going to see the success you want and need, because your mindset is off.

That’s why this episode is all about the mindset shifts you need to make to see greater success in your work and your business. Step one...stop calling yourself and your business a hot mess (or whatever terminology you use.)

If you don’t want to be a hot mess and you don’t want to be perceived as a hot mess, then don’t associate yourself in those terms. Stop buying the slogans and sayings and stop surrounding yourself with that negative self-talk. Instead, think of ways that you can remove the mess and make yourself and your business feel more streamlined.

All of that negative self-talk needs to go. Your mindset needs to be a place that’s open and able to receive positive results. I know that sounds a bit woo, but it’s true. You cannot receive the results of success if you’re busy seeding the fields with negativity.

It sounds hard, but it all starts with shifting your thoughts as you have them. You don’t have to stop thinking negatively, you just have to realize you’re having those thoughts and shift them toward the positive.

Listen in to hear all of the tips I’ve learned over the years on how to really shift my mindset and my perspective to be more open to receiving positivity. It has made all the difference in my business and my life and I want you to experience the same.

In This Episode:

[00:48] Welcome to the show!

[01:34] Mindset shifts to improve your business and why they work.

[02:21] Jenn shares her first tip for changing your mindset.

[05:22] Tip number two is to change your negative inner voice.

[09:52] Sign up for a calming app for a boost during the day. Learn why.

[11:46] If you have mindset tips, Jenn would love to hear them.

[13:00] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources:

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Free Facebook Ads Mini Course

Facebook Ads with Becky Burgess

Jenn Bays — Wed, 07 Oct 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Your marketing strategy is the key to getting eyes on your business. One of the best ways for photographers to do that is with Facebook Ads. Now I’m no Ads expert, but Becky Burgess of Splash Owl Media is.

She has spent the last decade + navigating the Facebook ads platform and staying up to date with all of their many changes. In that time she has learned amazing strategies for getting the absolute best bang for every buck you spend.

Becky is joining me today to talk all things ads. Everything from why you don’t need to spend a fortune to make an impact to how to properly set up your very first ad. She has a wealth of marketing knowledge and if you’re interested in running ads, then you won’t want to miss this.

If you remember nothing else from this episode, keep this in mind, never ever update an ad while it’s running...and if your ad manager tells you it’s okay, run!

Have you been thinking about running ads? What’s stopped you in the past? Just remember, as photographers, half your ad battle is already won. You’ve already got the most scroll-stopping piece of your creative in the bag! Learn what else you need and then pop over and grab Becky’s FB Ads Mini-Course for additional tips and tricks for running your ads!

In This Episode:

[01:23] Welcome to the show, Becky!

[03:07] Learn what Facebook ads are and why they are important to your business.

[05:56] Why even a small marketing budget will put your brand in front of more people.

[08:32] How to track your leads.

[10:24] For photographers, getting creative with graphics is key.

[13:18] What are retargeting emails and how should you use them?

[16:20] Learn her recommendations for Campaign Budget Optimization.

[19:56] A step by step walkthrough on how to set up a Facebook Ad.

[24:04] What is the learning phase of Facebook Ads?

[26:55] Why you should never change an ad while it’s running.

[28:44] One actionable tip you can use today.

[31:21] Multiple coffee chats are a great way to build a reputation.

[34:17] ClickUp and Voxer are her two favorite business tools.

[36:23] Learn her favorite quote.

[38:03] If we were to grab a drink in your neck of the woods, where would we go, and what would we drink?

[39:15] Need a free Facebook mini-course?

Links and Resources

Find Becky:

Splash Owl Media

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Organize Your Life to Run Your Business Efficiently

Jenn Bays — Wed, 30 Sep 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Here’s the thing, we all have a life to live, and if you’re listening to this podcast, then you also have a business to run. You shouldn’t spend your life worried about your business because if you’ve organized everything properly, they’ll both have the right amount of time and space.

Now, does that mean that everything goes perfectly 100% of the time? No! But you shouldn’t be spending the majority of your days feeling stressed and unsure of how things are going.

I’m sharing my tips for properly organizing your life to run your business efficiently and it all starts with writing out a typical day and time blocking it on your schedule. Include everything! If you drop your kids off at school and pick them up, time block it. If you’re the one responsible for the morning routine, time block it. Literally write out everything that your day consists of both in life and business.

Listen in to learn what you should do with the white space on your calendar and why using a digital planner makes life so much easier. Don’t be afraid of making adjustments and changes to your schedule, but know that you have to start somewhere.

Organizing starts with your calendar but there are so many facets that lead to a well-run life and business. Listen in to learn more.

In This Episode:

[01:56] Everyone has to juggle life and business.

[04:21] Listen as Jenn shares how to organize your life so you can have more freedom.

[05:02] Jenn speaks about writing out your typical day so you can time block it on your calendar.

[07:58] Now write down what happens often and put that on your calendar.

[08:55] Write a list of everything you need to get done.

[13:40] Do you have any white space available on your calendar?

[14:49] Listen as Jenn shares ways to give yourself some extra time.

[18:13] Jenn discusses planners and finding the one that works for you.

[20:17] Digital planners like Artful Agenda will allow you to auto-populate your events.

[23:18] The last thing Jenn speaks about is working your calendar around your optimal work hours, no matter what that time might be.

[29:35] You might have to make adjustments at first, but keep working towards your ideal life.

[30:56] Jenn shares the launch of her new Masterclass, so if you are interested, click here to get on the waitlist.

[31:13] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Waitlist for Masterclass

Becoming a Successful Boudoir Photographer with Kira Wood

Jenn Bays — Wed, 23 Sep 2020 08:00:00 -0400

When you’ve found the right niche for you and your business, things just start to happen. While it doesn’t always seem like this is true, that’s exactly what happened for Kira Wood. Listen as she shares how she niched down into boudoir photography and why it was one of the best things she’s done for herself and her business.

Kira started into the business doing family photography. She did everything from engagements, weddings, to newborns. Then one day a friend asked her to do a boudoir session and she realized the power of making women feel beautiful in their own skin.

She started to understand how important that feeling of confidence really is after having a lack-luster boudoir session of her own. Kira has made it her mission to help all women love the skin that they’re in and the more she has owned the boudoir space the more success she has found.

Giving over the reins of the business side of her career has been nerve wracking but the time she’s gained back has been put to good use. She’s sharing her tips for becoming the best photographer possible and why investing in yourself and your business is a must.

How could you invest in your business to move forward toward the life and business that you dream of?

In This Episode:

[02:18] Welcome to the show, Kira!

[03:10] Kira shares why she niched down into Boudoir photography.

[06:36] Boudoir photography and horses… Do they mix?

[07:38] How she transitioned from family photography to boudoir.

[10:48] The investments she’s made in her business and why.

[14:14] What is boudoir photography and why is it her passion?

[15:53] Paying someone to handle your business's business side is scary, but once you turn it over, you free up so much time.

[19:42] How she sets herself apart in a saturated market.

[22:08] Listen as Kira shares her process for getting to know her client before the shoot.

[24:41] Just keep working on your craft if you want to become a working photographer.

[25:33] What is your favorite business tool?

[27:00] "Anyone can do anything you can do, but nobody can be who you are" is Kira's favorite quote.

[27:34] If we were to grab a drink in your neck of the woods, what would we drink?

[28:00] Thank you for being on the show today!

Links and Resources

Find Kira:

Kira Wood

Instagram | LinkedIn

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Choosing a VA for Your Business

Jenn Bays — Wed, 16 Sep 2020 08:00:00 -0400

We recently went over how to know if you’re ready to hire a virtual assistant for your business, but now I have another question for you. What kind of virtual assistant do you need? That’s right. There is so much more to consider when you’re looking at hiring, so I wanted to go deeper and discuss the types of VAs that are out there and the best ways to know what you need in your business.

VAs come in all shapes, sizes, and specialities. Everything from editing and producing podcasts and YouTube channels, to copywriters, to general administrative work. How are you to know what your business needs and how much you should be paying? Well, keep listening!

In the last episode in this series, I shared how to go about determining which tasks in your business you need to offload. That same list will help you determine which type of VA you need. If you just need general help and don’t need any kind of specialty, then an admin VA is perfect. If you have more in-depth and complex needs, then you’ll know to look for a specialist.

Keep in mind that the more specialized the VA the more expensive. If someone has applied to a job listing and their hourly rate is under $25 per hour, then they’re likely very new. Not necessarily to the work you’re asking for, but in this online space and using various softwares.

Listen in to learn which types of VAs there are, how they can help you, and what you should look for when hiring for your business. Then check out the resources below and get your business on track for growth.

In This Episode:

[00:44] Welcome back!

[01:38] Listen as Jenn discusses how to figure out which Virtual Assistant (VA) is best for your business.

[04:03] A VA that charges $20 an hour is new to the industry, and you will have to train them more extensively.

[04:55] If you are looking for someone to come into your business to help you streamline and run things efficiently, you are looking for someone in the $35-$50 range.

[07:40] If you want to get more bang for your buck, consider keeping your specialty VA on retainer.

[08:56] Jenn shares how you will know if you need a general VA or a specialty VA.

[11:27] Jenn speaks about a package that Success Beyond the Lens has set up to help clients manage their businesses.

[12:54] Listen as Jenn shares the best places to find VA’s.

[16:00] Referrals are Jenn’s number one favorite way of finding a VA.

[16:57] Thank you for listening!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Ready to Hire a VA?

How and When to Niche Down in Your Business with Kristen Brumbaugh

Jenn Bays — Mon, 07 Sep 2020 08:00:00 -0400

You don’t have to stick with the status quo in your business. In fact if you do, you’re likely going to be a fish out of water. Own what you want to do with your life and business and you’ll find all the balance you need. Kristen Brumbaugh is here to share how she has done just that and why digging into her niche has given her untold freedom.

Kristen has spent over 15 year is in the real estate industry and as such realized that one of the biggest issues most real estate agents face is marketing. How to market themselves, the houses they’re selling, and their businesses. Which is why she and her husband created Blackhound Creative Werks.

She supports professionals and business owners in growing their businesses through marketing and targeted lead generation. Kristen is sharing all the tips and tricks she’s learned as she has grown her own business, brand, and presence.

We chat about the role of marketing in business, why niching down and streamlining your offers is a good thing, and how to create systems in your business that work for you. If you’re ready to learn how marketing and lead generation are used to create a foundation for business growth, then click play and start listening.

In This Episode:

[00:51] Welcome to the show, Kristen!

[02:03] Kristen shares how she got into real estate photography and marketing.

[05:01] Listen as Kristen chats about lead generation and follow up.

[09:50] Niche down to find what you enjoy and bigger opportunities.

[11:54] What’s it like working side by side with her husband?

[15:36] Why finding the right systems for your business is so important.

[18:12] Dropbox or G-Suite, which is best?

[20:13] How Kristen has streamlined her offers and why it’s made business so much better.

[25:47] Kristen says that when you love what you are doing, it’s easy to compartmentalize and have time for your family.

[26:25] Her new favorite business tool and why!

[27:27] Kristen shares her favorite quote.

[28:37] Drinks up! What is her favorite drink and where would we hang?

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Blackhound Creative Werks

Find Kristen:

LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram

Are You Ready to Hire a VA?

Jenn Bays — Mon, 24 Aug 2020 08:00:00 -0400

One of the most frequently asked questions that I get is how to know when you’re ready to hire a virtual assistant. I mean I have at least one person ask me this a day and to be honest, there is a good reason for it. Which is why I’m laying out my framework for determining whether or not you’re ready.

First things first, you need to make a list of all the things that you do in your business. Every single one of your tasks. Big or small, it doesn’t matter because this is when you will figure out exactly how much time you’re spending on your business rather than in it.

Once you’ve made that list, assign a time value to it. How much time do you spend on the tasks and which tasks do you like versus hate? These two things are so important. You’ll find that the tasks you really dislike are the ones that tend to take you the longest.

Now that you’ve figured out what you want to outsource, it’s time to determine if you’re ready. If you don’t currently have any process or strategy behind that task, then you’re not ready. You need to go into your relationship with your VA with expectations set for each task.

It doesn’t matter if you have the money to outsource, if you’re not ready. Because your readiness will mean the difference between wasting time and money rather than gaining them both back. Listen in to learn the rest of the framework!

In This Episode:

[00:46] Hey guys, thank you so much for listening!

[01:48] Listen as Jenn discusses how to know if you are ready to hire a VA.

[04:01] Make a list of all the things you want to outsource in your business.

[05:17] Just because you have the money doesn’t mean you’re ready to hire a VA.

[07:34] What does it look like when you’re prepared to hire?

[13:45] How to determine which tasks to outsource.

[15:18] Why retainer rates are better than hourly rates.

[17:41] What could you do with the time you take back for you and your business?

[20:14] Consider the time it takes to prepare for handing your stuff over to a VA.

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Ready to Hire a VA?

Mindset Work for Entrepreneurs with Krystal Thompson

Jenn Bays — Mon, 10 Aug 2020 08:00:00 -0400

What do you do when your passion is no longer the thing that fuels you? Find a new passion! That’s what Krystal Thompson did when she realized that while she loved photography, it wasn’t fueling her the way she wanted. Listen in as we chat about building the business you want, living the life of your dreams, and finding your confidence in yourself.

Krystal majored in photography and really had every intention of using her skills and drive to master the world of pictures. But it wasn’t enough. She struggled with the weight of anxiety and depression and knew she needed to make a change. Krystal is now a manifestation coach and helps people all over the world to realize their true capabilities.

Here’s the thing, your life and business are not one and the same. Your business allows you to live the life of your dreams, but what does that mean? What are your dreams? How do you plan to reach them? There are so many things holding us back from the realization that what we desire is there for the taking. Krystal helps you move past them.

Listen as Krystal shares how you can start building your business around your life instead of the other way around. We are meant to learn and grow every single day, and your business is the same! Stop allowing the stress and overwhelm to bring you down and learn how you can circumvent them!

In This Episode:

[01:36] Learn why Krystal moved away from photography to coaching.

[04:54] You can build harmony between work and personal life.

[07:54] Build your business around your life instead of building your life around your business.

[09:07] Hear tips on how to keep the fear at bay when you think about how your business is built.

[10:55] Jenn shares how difficult it was to continue when she lost her father.

[13:24] Krystal describes how the brain works and how we can rewire how we think.

[16:24] Jenn says that manifestation work brought her out of the darkness after her father passed away.

[18:38] Krystal discusses putting the belief in yourself on autopilot, so you don't have to think about it, like brushing your teeth.

[21:03] Jenn speaks about turning down work with an affluent client because it wasn't what she wanted to do and then two weeks later got a job with her dream client.

[24:57] Krystal says that your business is a small piece of the pie, have fun and spend time on life.

[26:35] If you have no one at the finish line, what have you accomplished?

[28:25] Krystal gives advice that the listeners can do today to help them take the first step.

[32:01] Jenn shares that you can outsource cleaning your house or whatever drains you, it doesn't have to be something about your business.

[35:02] Krystal speaks about her favorite business tool.

[36:02] If Jenn came out to LA to have a drink with Krystal, where would they go, and what would they drink?

[37:12] Krystal shares her favorite quote.

[37:48] Thank you for being on the show!

[37:57] Krystal shares some final thoughts.

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Find Krystal:

Krystal Thompson

Which CRM is Right For You?

Jenn Bays — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Listen in as I go through both of these amazing platforms. If you have questions or just want to know more about how you can implement a CRM in your business, click here to book a strategy call.

In This Episode:

[01:47] Learn more about CRM's and why you need them.

[02:30] Jenn shares the podcast schedule through the rest of the year.

[04:18] The first question you should ask yourself is, how much automation do you want or need to have?

[04:56] Dubsado gives you more options for automation than HoneyBook does.

[07:48] HoneyBook beats out Dubsado on ease of use.

[09:59] Both CRM's have a scheduler, and they both work well, but there are a few things you need to be aware of.

[11:38] Dubsado gets points for integrating the scheduler into their workflow process.

[12:36] Jenn likes both system's ability to create different funnels based on where your clients are within your process.

[14:49] Branding is something that Dubsado does that HoneyBook doesn't.

[16:00] The client experience is better on the HoneyBook system.

[18:27] Jenn recaps the important questions to ask yourself before deciding on a CRM.

[18:48] Do you have the time and money to invest in learning Dubsado? Dubsado has a higher learning curve.

[20:52] Thank you for listening to the show!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Discount Codes:

Dubsado - jbays913 Honeybook - JennBaysVA

Pinterest Strategies for Photographers with Kyrsten Ashlay

Jenn Bays — Mon, 06 Jul 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Pinterest is a platform that you have to have for your business. Why? Because if you’re planning to be in business for years to come, then you need to be found. Kyrsten Ashlay is a wedding photographer and Pinterest guru who has used the platform to seamlessly move her business across the country. Listen as she shares how she did it.

First things first, why is Pinterest necessary? Because it is a search engine versus a social media platform. What does that mean? Pinterest is directly responsible for helping Google bots to find your work, even years after it is first posted because it is a search engine platform. Social media platforms are one-to-one engagement-based whereas Pinterest is a place that people go to search for information.

You can also use Pinterest to help boost your work and your website for your keyword. Now Google SEO and Pinterest SEO are quite a bit different, so you’ll want to listen to hear the best way to use both search engine platforms.

Kyrsten also walks you through different ways you can use Pinterest to engage with your audience. The information she shares is truly priceless. If you’re not using Pinterest in your business… you need to! If you’ve been thinking about it… you need to start now!

In This Episode:

[00:58] Hear a little bit about Kyrsten and her background.

[02:42] Kyrsten shares why Pinterest is so important for your business.

[04:45] How Pinterest allowed Kyrsten to move her business from California to Texas seamlessly.

[07:14] Pinterest content doesn’t expire… versus Instagram content that only lasts a couple of days.

[08:14] Kyrsten shares how important it is to pin every image you blog every day.

[11:05] Kyrsten suggests pinning 5 of your high-quality content and 5 of someone else's.

[12:44] Learn the difference between social media and search engine platforms?

[14:06] Kyrsten shares how your posts can rank as high as possible when searched.

[16:37] She says to think about where your links are taking your followers if you want to pin directly from your blog.

[18:08] Pinterest leads are cold and it's the business owner’s job to warm up those potential clients.

[19:14] Kyrsten shares her top three tips on getting started with their Pinterest strategy.

[20:55] What mistake do you see new pinners do that you would like to stop?

[22:51] Kyrsten says just start! You can’t be successful with Pinterest if you don’t start.

[23:31] What is your favorite business tool?

[24:52] What is one of your favorite quotes?

[25:29] If you and I went to grab a drink, what would you be drinking?

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Find Kyrsten:

Kyrsten Ashlay

@kyrstenashlay.photography

@kyrstenashlayphotography

Facebook | Pinterest

How to Set and Stick to Your Boundaries

Jenn Bays — Mon, 22 Jun 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Boundaries are some of the most important things in your business. Nothing will ruin a good working relationship faster than someone stepping over or through your boundaries. How do you make sure that you’ve properly established your boundaries and then enforce them?

First you need to lay them out for your clients. Everything from your hours of operation, how to communicate with you, and when you’re going to be completely out of the office. Once you’ve set these boundaries, you have to keep them. All it takes is one voxer message or email sent outside of your working hours and you’ve set a new expectation.

Your boundaries should be laid out in your contract. That way if ever there is some sort of miscommunication or issue, you can show that your client signed off on and was made aware of your boundaries.

You’ll definitely want to consider establishing one form of communication. If you dictate email as your preferred method of communication, then you’ll be able to easily incorporate a VA into your business. Whatever you choose, make sure to stick with it.

Some of your boundaries are and should be non-negotiable. Simply by communicating effectively and making sure your client knows your boundaries, you can alleviate a lot of headaches. Listen in to learn all the ways you should be setting and sticking to your boundaries.

In This Episode:

[00:45] Hey friends, welcome to the show!

[01:14] Jenn gives her definition of boundaries.

[01:45] Boundaries will protect your mental and emotional wellbeing.

[03:02] What are the non-negotiable boundaries that you want to stick to no matter what?

[05:01] Jenn speaks about setting boundaries around your business hours.

[08:20] Jenn gives an example of a time when she had to be flexible with a photographer she wanted.

[10:45] Boundaries within your contract are necessary, this is your legal binding boundary protection.

[12:15] What do your services entail? You must set boundaries around your services.

[14:50] Jenn shares what she believes are the most important places to boundaries in your business.

[16:41] If you have all of your communication through email, it will be much easier to have a virtual assistant come in and help you with your business.

[17:37] Jenn says that once you brainstorm your boundaries, it is then necessary to place them where your clients can find them.

[18:58] A welcome packet is a great place to make your boundaries known to your client

[21:51] Jenn shares that a welcome packet allows you to deliver your boundaries with a pretty package with a bow on top.

[24:15] Make boundaries a standard from the get-go rather than an afterthought once they have signed and paid.

[27:13] Do you feel guilty if you don’t respond to a client's email after hours?

[28:11] That is all I have on boundaries, I hope it has been helpful.

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Why Follow for Follows Don't Work and What to Do Instead

Jenn Bays — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 10:45:21 -0400

Have you ever seen those posts in large Facebook groups asking to follow each other on Instagram? Seems like a great idea right? You boost your follower count and show Instagram that you’re an active user. All I can say is… stop!

I know that this is an unpopular opinion, but when you follow a bunch of other people who are doing what you do, you are actually hurting your Instagram strategy. All you’re doing is showing Instagram that those are the types of accounts and posts that you want to see.

This means that you’re losing your chance to see more of your ideal clients and to get in front of your ideal clients. Instead you should use the platform the way it’s designed to be used.

Take the time to research the hashtags you’re using. Those little babies can make or break your Instagram strategy. Also, geotag your posts. As a photographer, making sure that the local community can find you is key!

Have I convinced you?

In This Episode:

[00:44] Hey friends, welcome to the show!

[01:01] Today’s episode is about why follow for follow threads don’t work.

[01:26] Jenn shares two reasons these threads don’t work.

[03:02] The people you follow on Instagram need to be the people that will put you in front of your ideal clients.

[03:43] Jenn speaks about what you should do instead of follow for follow threads.

[05:01] Making connections through hashtags will get you in front of the clients you want to work with.

[05:40] Geotagging your posts is another thing you can be doing.

[06:36] Instead of using the follow for follows, make sure you are using Instagram, it’s hashtags, and it’s geotagging.

[07:01] I Hope you all have an outstanding day!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

The Dos and Don'ts of Finances for Photographers with Katelyn Magnuson

Jenn Bays — Mon, 01 Jun 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Katelyn spent her 20s moving through various roles between corporate and the online space. What she learned is that our parents’ and grandparents’ way of doing money… no longer works.

Listen as Katelyn shares her best tips for approaching your taxes and how you can find more write offs. Check out Katelyn’s site if you know you need help getting your numbers in order now!

In This Episode:

[01:27] Welcome to the show, Katelyn!

[02:13] Katelyn shares a little of her background and how she got where she is today.

[05:06] Katelyn speaks about things she does in her business and where she feels she is the strongest.

[06:08] What do you mean by, “you are not your parent's money expert?”

[08:12] Katelyn discusses the financial strategies that she shares with her clients.

[10:13] They speak about Dave Ramsey and how her beliefs differ from his even though the end goal is the same.

[11:49] Are you focusing on a scarcity and lack mentality and staying broke instead of flourishing?

[13:13] Katelyn shares some photography do’s for taxes.

[15:32] You must have a separate bank account to keep your business and personal assets protected.

[16:14] Keeping receipts and having accounting software is very important.

[18:46] Which accounting software do you recommend?

[20:39] Anything $75 dollars or over the IRS wants a receipt.

[22:52] Katelyn speaks about traveling for an event, but you stay longer, how the IRS looks at those expenses.

[25:53] Mileage is a big write off, but there are some caveats that you need to understand.

[29:00] Katelyn shares her biggest don'ts.

[31:08] Should businesses accept Venmo for payment of services?

[33:33] Katelyn gives her number one tip for listeners today.

[34:30] What is your favorite quote?

[36:01] Hubdoc and Xero are Katelyn's favorite business tools.

[36:56] If we went out for a drink, what would you order?

[38:13] Thank you so much for being on the show!

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Find Katelyn:

Katelyn Magnuson

@thefreelancecfo

Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest

Uplevel Your Client Experience

Jenn Bays — Mon, 25 May 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Giving your clients an amazing experience is one of the best ways to ensure repeat business. Think about it. Are you more likely to rebook with the same hairdresser over and over if she remembers your birthday?

The same concept applies for your photography business. Which is why I wanted to share my three favorite tips for up-leveling your client experience.

First, always be on time. Be on time with communication, to your appointments, and in providing your clients their products. Second, make it easy to book with you. Provide a friction-free way for them to book, reschedule, cancel if necessary, etc.

Last but not least, always make your clients feel special. Make it a point to go above and beyond their expectations and they will always come back to you.

The client experience is the most important aspect of your business because when a client loves you and your work, they’ll talk about it. If they hate it, they’ll talk about that too… but more loudly. Always be sure that the experience your clients have with your services are exceptional.

In This Episode:

[00:45] Welcome to the show!

[01:11] Jenn discusses upleveling your client experience.

[01:50] There are three easy ways to make this happen.

[02:02] The first tip is to always be on time.

[04:34] The second tip is to make it easy to book with you.

[07:10] Do you get deposits from your clients?

[08:46] Tip number three is to make them feel special.

[10:44] Learning your clients names before the session is one way to make them feel special.

[11:52] Jenn recaps the three things you can do to uplevel your clients experience.

[12:30] The bonus is that when you make your clients feel special they will tell their friends which will get you referrals.

[13:13] Thank you so much for listening to the show! Please remember to share this podcast with your friends and coworkers.

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Relationships Build Businesses

Jenn Bays — Mon, 11 May 2020 08:00:00 -0400

There’s really nothing else to say about it… but I will. When it comes down to it, the relationships that you grow and foster each and every day help you to thrive in this entrepreneurial world.

As photographers there are several different relationships that you should be working to cultivate, but one of the most important is your vendor relationships. I’m not talking about just the wedding planners and venue hosts. I’m talking about your florists, bakers, dress makers. All of your vendors can be wonderful sources of referrals. Especially when you provide them vendor galleries for no additional charge. Let them know that you’d LOVE them to tag you in any images they use, but if they don’t, oh well. That’s still your work and when asked they’ll tell others who took those photos.

Last but certainly not least you NEED to be attending conferences and in person events. The relationships that you make and thus build over time from those events are priceless. It doesn’t matter if they turn into clients now… in the very near future you will see the fruits of your labor.

Relationships are the lynchpin of small business. Don’t forget to love on yours.

In This Episode:

[01:58] Learn one of the most important pieces of building a long-term business.

[04:43] One of the most amazing connections I made was at a retreat and I still talk to most of those ladies.

[05:48] If you’re a wedding photographer then you need to cultivate vendor relationships.

[08:26] Send galleries to your vendors PRIOR to them asking.

[11:08] Go to networking events… those relationships are so important.

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Social Media Marketing Tips for Photographers with Megan Breukelman

Jenn Bays — Mon, 04 May 2020 08:00:00 -0400

When you think social media marketing… what comes to mind? If your first thought is to run away screaming… then you’ve obviously never talked with Megan Breukelman. She is a social media marketing guru on top of running her own successful photography business and is dedicated to helping other photography professionals build profitable businesses.

One of the biggest challenges photographers face is maintaining a stable and profitable business. She wants to help change that through solid social media marketing strategy.

Megan has worked in and around fashion and marketing, and her experiences shape the way she sees, thinks, produces, and shoots. She has also co-founded and built an international digital and print fashion magazine called Atlas Magazine, and does all of her social media marketing herself.

We are taking a deep dive into the benefits of using various social media platforms and how you can use them more effectively. If you’ve been struggling with Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, Facebook, or are super confused by TikTok, then you’ll want to take notes.

In This Episode:

[00:54] Welcome to the show, Megan!

[01:58] Megan shares a little about her background and where she got her passion for photography.

[03:12] She discusses when she started her magazine and how that led to social media marketing.

[04:44] Megan speaks about living in Florida and going to college there and the friends she made there, including her now-husband.

[06:01] Megan chats about taking social media marketing slowly until you learn all the ins and outs.

[06:39] Megan gives her insights into the benefits and strategies of Instagram.

[09:58] Megan describes how she uses Twitter.

[11:11] Megan believes that Pinterest is a super essential platform and an enormous opportunity for photographers.

[13:16] Megan chats about TikTok and who uses the platform.

[14:16] Megan thinks Facebook groups are where it’s at for lead generation.

[17:15] Megan says to take diving into social media marketing slowly.

[18:04] What one actionable tip can you give listeners to implement that will improve their social media marketing?

[21:29] Megan discusses the MailButler tool.

[22:50] She shares another one of her favorite business tools called ShootProof.

[24:17] Megan shares her favorite.

[24:54] Megan, thank you so much for being on the show!

[25:21] Any parting words for our listeners today?

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

Photographers Pinterest Guide

Find Megan:

Megan Breukelman

@meganbreukelman

Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn

How I’m Running My Business on 40% of the Time I’m Used to Having

Jenn Bays — Mon, 27 Apr 2020 08:00:00 -0400

The Covid-19 pandemic is still going strong and as such I’ve had to completely revamp my workflow and processes. I’m sharing the strategy I’m using to get a full day’s work in with 40% less time than normal.

You may or may not know this, but I have a VERY active two year old. Also, on the days my husband works, he is gone at least 16hrs at a time. Prior to the current state of events, my son was going to a Montessori style school and I was able to work in my office space downtown.

Fast-forward to now. I get maybe 2 full days in the office each week and my son is home completely. My business is still running at max capacity and I’m still getting everything done, but the way I work has seen a massive change.

I’m sharing how I’m coping with the loss of “work” time and how I’m making sure to keep my clients top of mind in the process. Five tips you can use any time your life takes a turn and your work capacity changes!

After you listen, shoot me a DM or an email and let me know how you’re getting #allthethings done right now!

In This Episode:

[01:40] What my work life looked like before Covid.

[04:53] … and what it looks like now.

[05:28] First things first, I have to communicate more about my capacity with my clients.

[07:19] I have restructured when and how I work.

[12:53] Get super clear about your task list and what your true priorities are.

[15:27] Batch your work as much as you can.

[17:11] Stop being so hard on yourself! Give yourself grace.

[19:31] - Quick recap of all my tips.

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast

10 Tips for Your Business During COVID-19

Jenn Bays — Mon, 20 Apr 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Get ready to learn my top ten tips to move your business forward so you will come out on the other side of this pandemic ready to go. I’m touching on some mindset tips, productivity tips, and ways you can uplevel your skills until you get to start using them again.

How much attention do you pay to your website? I know you’re posting and adding new content, but have you paid any mind to your SEO? The process can be pretty time consuming, so now is the time to take a minute and spend some time updating your website.

Now’s the time to review your processes as well. Create that welcome packet, review your automated emails, set up your CRM. Make sure that everything is in place to hit the ground running once social distancing is in our rearview.

Also, spend a few minutes and declutter your office space. Put things away, dust, decorate. Clean up your workspace so that you minimize distractions.

I have so many awesome tips prepped and ready for you, so you definitely don’t want to miss this episode. Most of these are things that you need to be doing regardless of the current social and political climate. It’s possible you have LESS time now than usual, but if you make a few of these a priority now, you’ll be setting yourself up for success in the near future!

In This Episode:

[00:43] Hey there, friends!

[01:09] Ten tips to move your business forward that you can do right now that will improve your business on the other side of the pandemic

[01:59] Tip #1 Create SEO (search engine optimization) rich blog content.

[04:39] My second tip is to practice a new skill at home.

[06:03] Tip #3 is to improve and or create your welcome package.

[08:04] Declutter and reorganize your workspace is number four.

[09:47] Tip #5 pre-plan your social media content.

[11:29] Number six is to clean up your email inbox.

[14:13] Tip #7 go outside, keep yourself mentally healthy.

[15:35] Flex your creative muscles is my eighth tip.

[16:33] Tip #9 is to offer face-time sessions.

[17:23] My last tip is to work on your systems and automation.

[19:32] You are going to be needed once this is over.

[20:35] I believe that photographers are some of the most incredible people in the world.

[21:13] If you have questions or would like to brainstorm, I am offering free twenty-minute strategy sessions.

[21:37] I hope you have an awesome day and I will catch you next time.

Links and Resources

Find Jenn:

@successbeyondthelens

@successbeyondthelenspodcast