Take It Personally

Grab your free spot in my Booked Up and In-Demand Masterclass: September 23 at noon CST - learn the content system that fills your calendar with premium clients

LINKS

Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List – Free Download

#185: The Beliefs Holding You Back From Booking Clients on Instagram

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0400

I will never stop sharing my love for social media. Why? Because it’s one of the most powerful tools we have as business owners. And yet, so many photographers I work with are afraid of it. They worry about being vulnerable, about what showing up online says about them, and as a result, they hold back.

But here’s the truth: these limiting beliefs are keeping you from booking clients on Instagram. It doesn’t matter how solid your strategy is or how many content ideas you have—if you can’t work through these beliefs, you’ll struggle to see results.

In this episode, I’m breaking down the most common beliefs I hear (and have struggled with myself!) and how to start talking back to those scary voices in your head so you can finally use social media to connect with the right people and book more clients.

What you'll learn in this episode:

Why “nobody cares” and “I’m not that interesting” are lies you’re telling yourself
How practicing is the only way to get better at showing up online
Why your life doesn’t need to look perfectly aesthetic to attract clients
How to share what feels comfortable while still making genuine connections
Why “professionalism” doesn’t mean hiding who you are
The power of recognizing your red flag thoughts and shifting them into possibility

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

Grab your free spot in my Booked Up and In-Demand Masterclass: September 23 at noon CST - learn the content system that fills your calendar with premium clients

LINKS

Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List – Free Download

#184: The 3 Instagram Posts That Get You Booked

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0400

You’ve been told you need to show up consistently on Instagram...so you do. But instead of clients rolling in, you’re left wondering if posting is even worth it. Maybe your consistency hasn’t paid off, or maybe you’ve been ghosting your account altogether. Either way, if Instagram isn’t bringing in new bookings, it’s not about the app. It’s about your content strategy.

In this episode of Take It Personally, I'm breaking down the three types of Instagram posts that actually get clients to book you. I'm sharing real examples, how to position yourself as the go-to brand photographer, and how storytelling can make your content more effective. If you’ve been frustrated with Instagram, this is the strategy shift you need.

01:08 – Why posting on Instagram isn’t working for many photographers

02:16 – The 3 types of Instagram posts to get booked

03:00 – Reputation-building content

05:56 – Rapport-building content

09:40 – Relationship-building content

19:54 – Focus on your content strategy, not just consistency

20:19 – 21 Day Instagram Challenge

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Join my 21-Day Instagram Challenge happening inside a private IG chat starting September 1st—simple, daily prompts that help you stay consistent and get visible so you can get more inquiries from IG. 👉 DM me “challenge” on Instagram @maddiepeschong to join us!

Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List – Free Download

#183: Using Instagram as a Portfolio? Listen to this.

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0400

As photographers, it can feel natural to use Instagram as a portfolio—posting your most recent work with simple captions like “Loved this session!” or “Isn’t she gorgeous?” But if you’ve been doing that consistently and wondering why you’re not booking clients, there’s a reason: Instagram isn’t meant to be your portfolio.

In this episode of Take It Personally, I'm sharing why using Instagram only to showcase your work keeps you from connecting with your ideal clients and booking sessions. I'm also showing how to shift from treating your feed like a gallery to creating an engaging brand experience—one that builds trust, answers client questions before they ever inquire, and ultimately gets you booked.

If you’ve ever felt frustrated that posting pretty photos isn’t leading to results, this episode will give you a clear strategy to change that.

01:07 — The viral Threads post that sparked this conversation

02:16 — Why using Instagram like a portfolio keeps photographers stuck

03:22 — Common posting mistakes

03:56 — Building connection and brand experience

04:40 — Sharing work strategically

06:50 — Practical post examples and client concerns

09:42 — Building trust through personal stories

10:25 — Brand storytelling and standing out

11:07 — 21-day Instagram challenge invite

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List – Free Download

#182: One Brand Session, 30 Days of Content

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0400

If your Instagram feed is filled with nothing but sneak peeks and “look how gorgeous this session was” captions, we need to talk. Instagram is not your portfolio; it’s the experience of your brand.

When you treat it like a dusty portfolio, you run out of content quickly and blend in with every other photographer. But when you start treating it like an experience, one great brand session can fuel your feed for 30 days (or more).

In this episode, I’m sharing how to stop overthinking, use your sessions more strategically, and turn a single shoot into a month’s worth of posts that build reputation, rapport, relationships, and true embodiment of your brand.

01:45 – The problem with using Instagram as a portfolio

03:29 – Creating content that works harder for you

07:08 – Building reputation: introducing yourself and your work

09:39 – Building rapport through storytelling

14:56 – Building relationships through social proof

22:19 – Embodying your brand authentically

24:10 – Repurposing content effectively

27:34 – Join the 21-day Instagram challenge

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List – Free Download

#181: The Vicious Visibility Cycle (and how to get out of it)

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 18:06:00 -0400

Ever found yourself slammed with client work and thinking, “I don’t need to post to Instagram right now—I’m booked!” …only to be staring at an empty inbox a few months later wondering where everyone went?

Yep. I’ve been there. This is what I call the vicious visibility cycle, and it’s time to break it.

In this episode, we’re diving into:

Why your fully booked season now could mean crickets later
The sneaky lag time between showing up and booking out
Why marketing is a non-negotiable if you want long-term success
How to stay visible without burning yourself out
Shifting from “content creation” to documentation marketing

Plus, I’m sharing more about my brand new 21-Day Instagram Challenge happening inside a private IG chat starting September 1st—simple, daily prompts that help you stay consistent and get visible so you can get more inquiries from IG.

👉 DM me “challenge” on Instagram @maddiepeschong to join us!

Links & Resources:

Join the 21-Day Instagram Challenge – DM “challenge”
Rebrand Group Coaching
Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List – Free Download

#180: The Mistake That's Keeping You From Charging 4-Figures

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

You want to charge four figures for brand photography, whether that’s $1,000 or $5,000. But deep down, if you’re still crossing your fingers that your clients are happy with their photos or treating every session like a guessing game, it’s going to be hard to raise your prices with confidence.

In this episode of Take It Personally, we’re talking about the one mistake that might be holding you back from charging what your work is worth: not having a strategic, repeatable process behind your sessions. I'm walking you through why your clients are looking for ROI, not just pretty photos, and how a thoughtful brand photography process creates results, for your clients and your business.

If you’re tired of feeling unsure about your pricing, nervous on shoot day, or unsure how to talk about the value you provide, this episode is a must-listen.

1:07 — The mistake that’s keeping you from charging four figures

1:40 — Why your photos need more than “just vibes” to be premium

2:57 — My client Roxanne: from unsure to confidently charging $3K+

3:53 — What clients really get from brand photography

6:27 — The importance of consistent client experience

9:04 — Repeatable strategy = premium pricing + better referrals

9:55 — Why strategic planning helps your clients (and your time!)

12:30 — How to build confidence and charge more

12:50 — Three things to focus on for strategic sessions

15:57 — What’s inside Behind the Shot

16:33 — Live call details in BTS + new pricing module

17:16 — How to join the course and get $150 off!

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

Roxanne's TIP podcast episode

LINKS

Behind the Shot: the full system of planning, posing, shooting, and delivering, so you can stop feeling like an imposter and start showing up like the expert brand photographer you are. $150 off with code SUMMER25!

The August summer sprint inside BTS includes live calls, a new pricing module, and the accountability you've been needing to actually finish the course

#179: My Favorite Lighting Setups at Brand Sessions (Natural and Artificial!)

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 17:21:00 -0400

Lighting can feel so intimidating—especially if you’re used to relying only on natural light. I used to be that photographer who prayed for big windows and white walls and sweated at the thought of using flash. But once I started actually practicing with artificial light, it completely changed my confidence behind the camera.

In this episode, I’m sharing the lighting setups I use most often during brand sessions—from natural light to flash to strobes—and how to know which one to use when. Plus, we’re diving into why lighting isn’t just technical, it’s part of your brand.

Here’s what we’re talking about:

My journey from natural-light-only to confidently using artificial light
The exact gear I use on brand shoots (hello, Profoto A10 😍)
Why modified natural light is my go-to setup
How lighting helps create a cohesive, elevated brand portfolio
What’s included in Behind the Shot and why now’s the perfect time to join

✨ Join Behind the Shot and get $150 off with code SUMMER25: maddiepeschong.com/behindtheshot

The August summer sprint inside BTS includes live calls, a new pricing module, and the accountability you’ve been needing to actually finish the course.

#178: BTS of My Client Experience Workflow

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Ever wonder what the client experience actually looks like inside a premium brand photography business? In this episode, I'm walking you through the exact workflow I use with every single client—from initial inquiry to gallery delivery and beyond. You’ll hear about the systems, templates, automations, and even the personal touches that make a huge difference. If managing your clients feels messy or exhausting, this episode is your permission to simplify it.

Plus, don’t miss the invite to my free webinar with Colie James where we’ll help you streamline your client experience and charge more with less stress.

0:00 – Why client experience workflows matter

2:15 – Why every client starts with my contact form

4:50 – The first email they get after inquiring

7:05 – How I set up calls and book discovery sessions

9:30 – The discovery call map that leads to more bookings

12:20 – Proposals, automations, and payment reminders

14:45 – My onboarding email and when I send questionnaires

17:10 – How I outsource shoot guides (and why that’s been a game changer)

19:20 – Invitation to the free workflow webinar

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

My photoshoot planning guide template

LINKS

July 17 Webinar with Colie James: Charge More Stress Less - Learn how to automate the sales process for your luxury brand photography offer. Save your spot now!

#177: Scared of Using Automations? Listen to This

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0400

If you've ever avoided setting up automations in your business because you're scared something will break, sound robotic, or feel impersonal, this episode of Take It Personally is for you.

In this episode, I’m sharing a little tough love and a whole lot of encouragement for those of you who are automation-curious but stuck in perfectionism. I’ll walk you through real-life examples from my own brand photography business and show you how automations can actually give you more space for personal touch, creativity, and freedom. You don’t have to babysit your inbox forever. Let’s talk about what’s really holding you back—and how to fix it.

01:30 Why I avoided automations too (and what changed my mind)

03:40 What’s really holding you back from setting up workflows

05:15 Automations don’t have to be robotic

07:10 A behind-the-scenes look at how my CRM is set up

09:00 What to do if you’re scared of sending something by accident

11:35 Why human error is not the end of the world

14:00 Strategic automation vs. intentional personal touch

16:15 Why automations create more space for connection

18:10 Final pep talk (plus your invite to the free webinar!)

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

July 17 Webinar with Colie James: Charge More Stress Less - Learn how to automate the sales process for your luxury brand photography offer. Save your spot now!

Dubsado: 20% off

Honeybook: 25%

#176: 3 Automations Every Brand Photographer Needs

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Feeling like your brand photography biz runs you during busy seasons (and disappears during slow ones)? This episode is your permission slip to take a break, without your business falling apart. I'm breaking down the three essential workflows every brand photographer should have in place to run a streamlined, premium-feeling business that keeps booking even when you're off the grid.

These automations will help you simplify your backend, lighten your mental load, and create an experience that gets clients talking (and referring). Whether you’re still sending paper contracts or already dabbling with CRMs like HoneyBook or Dubsado, you’ll walk away from this episode with easy, actionable ideas to uplevel your process.

Want even more help building a premium brand? Colie James and I are hosting a free masterclass: Charge More, Stress Less, on July 17th to help you set up workflows that help you book dream clients, save hours every week, and make your brand feel premium. Grab your free spot here!

1:40 Why summer slow seasons don’t mean your business has to stop

4:20 The power of automations (and what they really do for your brand)

6:15 The inquiry workflow automation and creating a strong first impression

9:20 The onboarding + delivery workflow (think start to finish steps for client)

17:35 Why communication matters more than speed for editing

21:10 The offboarding workflow and increasing rebookings and referrals

26:25 How these automations make you look premium and stand out to commercial clients

29:45 Getting started: simple places to begin automating today

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

July 17 Webinar with Colie James: Charge More Stress Less - Learn how to automate the sales process for your luxury brand photography offer. Save your spot now!

Dubsado: 20% off

Honeybook: 25%

#175: Charge More and Stress Less with Colie James

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I don’t shut up about the power of systems, mostly because of Colie and the backend magic she helped me set up in my brand photography business a few years ago.

In this episode, we’re diving into how to build a luxury brand photography business that basically runs itself. We’re talking about proposals that do the selling for you, onboarding workflows that prep your clients before you even show up with a camera, and offboarding strategies that bring in rebookings and referrals on autopilot. Whether you’re still DIY-ing every client touchpoint or already using a CRM like Dubsado or HoneyBook, this episode is packed with actionable ideas to save you time and up-level your client experience.

Plus, we’re hosting a free webinar on July 17 all about this: Charge More, Stress Less. You can save your spot right here.

3:45 Why your proposal is not just a pricing list and how it can literally close the sale for you

9:12 The biggest places photographers lose clients in the booking process (and how to fix it)

17:30 – The onboarding gap no one talks about and why it affects your entire shoot

24:05 – Client prep with workflows, automations, and even video (don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be scary)

36:22 – The secret to better rebooking and referrals: your offboarding strategy

45:40 – Dubsado vs. HoneyBook: what’s actually working right now

56:10 – Why systems don’t have to be “all or nothing” to make a big difference

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

CONNECT WITH COLIE:

LINKS

July 17 Webinar with Colie James: Charge More Stress Less - Learn how to automate the sales process for your luxury brand photography offer. Save your spot now!

Dubsado: 20% off

Honeybook: 25%

#174: The Business Tool Every Photographer Needs

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 14:26:00 -0400

We are in the heat of summer right now, and if you’re anything like me, you don’t really want to spend your summer working. But you do want your business to keep running—and more importantly, to keep making money—while you’re taking time off.

That’s where systems and automations come in. And today, I’m kicking off a short summer series on the podcast to help you simplify the backend of your brand photography business—starting with the one tool I truly couldn’t live without: a CRM.

If the admin side of your business feels messy, inconsistent, or overwhelming, this episode is going to show you exactly what’s possible when you have the right tool in place.

01:26 How I still make money while working way less in the summer

03:15 What is a CRM, and why does it matter for brand photographers?

05:40 Signs you need a CRM ASAP

09:04 Dubsado vs. HoneyBook: Which one is better?

13:11 The automations I use in my CRM that save me hours every week

17:22 Why great client experience (not great photos) makes you premium

20:33 How to start small and still make a big impact with automations

26:04 My favorite time-saving CRM features (and how to use them)

Links

→ Dubsado Free Trial + Discount

→ HoneyBook Free Trial + Discount

→ Join the July 17 Webinar with Colie James (more details coming soon!)

#173: How Nicole Transitioned from Family to Brand Photography

Thu, 22 May 2025 18:28:00 -0400

In this episode of Take It Personally, I’m chatting with Nicole Hodgson, a branding photographer based in Northern California, who made the leap from family photography to brand photography. As a mom of three and a former marriage and family therapist, Nicole shares the moments that led her to pursue brand photography and how Rebrand helped her elevate her business.

Nicole talks about her initial hesitation in offering branding sessions and how her passion for education and growth led her to Rebrand. Since joining, she’s gained the clarity, confidence, and tools needed to position herself as a sought-after brand photographer. She's also made an additional $6500 in revenue in just a couple months.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How Nicole transitioned from family photography to branding photography and the struggles she faced along the way
The key differences between the Behind the Shot course and the Rebrand program, and how Rebrand took her business to the next level
Why positioning yourself as a brand photographer is crucial for business growth, and how Nicole found the confidence to niche down
The impact of learning how to use flash in branding photography, and how Nicole pushed herself to grow in new areas
How the Rebrand community and support system helped Nicole gain clarity and actionable steps to grow her business
The power of discovery calls and how Nicole is now booking her highest packages with confidence

Links & Resources:

Join Rebrand
Nicole’s Instagram

If you’re ready to gain clarity and confidence in your business, join us inside Rebrand, where we provide you with the tools, strategies, and support to become a booked out brand photographer.

#172: How Tori Transitioned from Wedding to Brand photography

Thu, 22 May 2025 11:04:00 -0400

In today’s episode of Take It Personally, I'm featuring my client Tori Kelner, a talented wedding photographer who made a smooth and strategic transition into brand photography. Tori shares her journey of moving from wedding photography to branding, how Rebrand helped her sharpen her strategy, and the powerful lessons she’s learned along the way.

If you’re a photographer considering a shift toward brand photography, Tori’s story is filled with valuable insights. From navigating burnout to embracing a new niche, she shares the tools and confidence she’s gained to position herself as a brand photographer—and not just someone who "does brand photos occasionally."

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How Tori decided to pivot from weddings to brand photography (and why it felt like the perfect move)
The strategic changes she implemented right away to get her business set up for success
The power of positioning yourself as a brand photographer and why it’s key to attracting the right clients
How Rebrand’s resources—like templates, questionnaires, and group coaching—accelerated her growth and confidence
The importance of building a portfolio that reflects your unique approach to brand photography
Tori’s thoughts on blending multiple photography niches and why it doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing choice

Links & Resources:

Join Rebrand
Tori’s Instagram

If you’re ready to take the next step in your photography business and pivot to brand photography, join us inside Rebrand where we help photographers like you build a strategy, find their niche, and gain the confidence to charge premium rates for their services.

#171: The Shift That Took Catie from $1,200 to $3,500 Sessions

Tue, 20 May 2025 10:47:00 -0400

If you’ve been doing brand photography for a while but feel stuck at that $1,200–$1,500 price point, this episode is for you!

Catie has been a pro photographer for 15 years—weddings, seniors, and then a pivot into brand photography when her son started preschool. Even though she was booking solid sessions, she knew her work was worth more. She just didn’t know how to get clients to see that.

In this episode, Catie breaks down:

How she restructured her packages so price wasn’t tied to time
The pricing differentiator that made discovery calls effortless
The confidence shift that turned a $1,500 average into a $3,500 booking—without a single pushback
What happened when she leaned into positioning herself as the expert
Her top networking move (it wasn’t cold-DM’ing!) that brought in referrals
How the Rebrand community and coaching kept her accountable and inspired

00:00 Introduction & Catie's journey from weddings to brand photography

02:15 The “good but not great” plateau at $1,200–$1,500 sessions

04:10 The moment she decided she needed more than referrals

06:05 Why she finally joined Rebrand—trusting a current photographer, not a retired one

08:22 Restructuring packages: moving off “hourly” pricing

11:45 Discovery calls that sell strategy—not just pretty photos

14:30 Booking her first $3,500 session in just 4 weeks

17:50 Leveraging referrals and coffee chats for client attraction

20:05 The mindset and positioning shifts that made it all click

22:40 How the Rebrand community fueled her momentum

25:15 Advice for experienced photographers on leveling up

Links & Resources:

Join Rebrand (doors close Friday!): https://maddiepeschong.com/rebrand
Catie Ronquillo Photography: https://catieronquillo.com/
DM Catie about her Rebrand experience: https://www.instagram.com/catieronquillo/

#170: How Kayla Booked Two Brand Clients in Two Weeks on Social Media

Mon, 19 May 2025 03:00:00 -0400

If you’re navigating a pivot in your photography business, or wondering how to actually get traction with brand photography, this episode is for you!

Kayla shares what it looked like to walk away from weddings, embrace a brand new niche, and finally build a business that fits her life as a military spouse and mom of two young boys. She talks about the unique challenges of moving every few years, how Rebrand helped her feel equipped and supported through her transition, and what gave her the confidence to start showing up consistently and signing brand clients.

In fact, since joining Rebrand, Kayla booked two brand clients in just two weeks and made back her investment in less than two months, even while offering portfolio-building rates. She also shares how she overcame imposter syndrome and created a content system (with a little help from our new AI assistant, Rebecca) that skyrocketed her Instagram reach and helped her connect with aligned clients.

00:22 Transition from Wedding to Brand Photography

01:18 Challenges of a Military Spouse Photographer

02:49 Pivoting to Brand Photography

04:37 Mindset Shift and Booking Differences

08:39 Joining the Rebrand Program

14:15 Initial Steps and Portfolio Building

17:34 Leveraging Content with Rebrand Custom GPT Rebecca

21:51 Gaining Confidence in Social Media

22:47 The Impact of Consistency

31:55 The Power of Rebrand Community Collaboration

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

CONNECT WITH KAYLA:

LINKS

Join Rebrand: My 12-month transformative brand program for photographers who want to book their highest paid sessions EVER (and feel damn good doing it). Become a booked out brand photographer when you join Rebrand. Enrollment is open!

#169: How Niching Helped Jill Grow Her Revenue by 69%

Thu, 15 May 2025 03:00:00 -0400

If you’ve been thinking about niching down but feel nervous about how it might affect your income or your business overall, this episode is a must-listen.

Jill shares how niching was actually the thing that catapulted her business forward. After joining Rebrand, she was able to simplify her marketing, raise her prices, and see a 69% increase in revenue from Q1 of last year to Q1 of this year (all while working less).

In this episode, we walk through Jill’s journey of finding Rebrand, what it helped her clarify in her business, and how it gave her the confidence to go all in on brand photography. Now a highly-skilled and successful brand photographer, Jill continues to stick around in the Rebrand community because of the support and continued growth she experiences inside.

01:31 Jill's Photography Journey

02:32 Challenges Before Joining Rebrand

04:20 How Jill Found Rebrand and Took the Leap

06:27 Transitioning Exclusively to Brand Photography

11:55 Impact of Niching Down

17:51 Advice for Photographers Considering Niching

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

CONNECT WITH JILL:

LINKS

#168: Why Playing It Safe Is Keeping You Stuck

Tue, 13 May 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Today’s episode isn’t about your brand photography packages. It’s about what’s going on in your head. Because when it comes to pivoting into brand photography, so many photographers get stuck.

And it’s not because they don’t know what to do. It’s because they’re scared to actually do it.

If that sounds familiar, we’re diving into the fears and thoughts that might be holding you back from building the brand photography business and life you really want.

01:06 Mindset Matters in Brand Photography

02:19 Invitation to Double Your Prices Masterclass

03:30 Overcoming Common Fears in Brand Photography

06:01 The Importance of Clear Marketing

14:52 Building a Memorable Brand

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Double Your Prices Masterclass: May 14 at noon CST - Learn how to make more money with brand photography by attracting high-value clients on repeat. Register now!

#167: Why Photographers Struggle to Book Brand Photography Clients—and How to Fix It

Thu, 08 May 2025 03:00:00 -0400

If I had a nickel for every time a photographer told me it’s harder to book brand photography clients than weddings or portraits, I’d have a lot of nickels.

And honestly? They’re not wrong. Brand clients are different. They’re usually business owners who know what they need and are actively looking for someone who specializes. They want an expert, not someone who shoots everything.

That’s why if you’re struggling to book brand sessions, it’s probably not your photos (they’re likely great), your pricing, or the algorithm. It’s your positioning. And before you roll your eyes about niching, stick with me. This goes deeper than that.

What I'm talking about today is the very specific way that trying to appeal to everyone is keeping you from booking the clients and sessions you actually want.

01:06 Challenges in Booking Brand Photography Clients

02:47 The Importance of Positioning in Brand Photography

03:11 Invitation to Double Your Prices Masterclass

03:54 Common Issues in Brand Photography Business

06:14 The Power of Niching Down

09:31 Steps to Improve Your Brand Photography Business

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Double Your Prices Masterclass: May 14 at noon CST - Learn how to make more money with brand photography by attracting high-value clients on repeat. Register now!

#166: How to Book Your Highest Priced Brand Photography Package–Consistently

Tue, 06 May 2025 03:00:00 -0400

What if the reason that clients aren't booking your top package isn't the price, but rather how you have positioned it?

I hear so often from the brand photographers that I work with that they aren't able to sell the high price tag that they want to sell. They continually have people who are just booking a headshot or wanting to book their smallest package when it comes to personal brand photography.

And once we really dig into their offers and how each of them are positioned, it's typically quite clear why that keeps happening. And they don't need to slash prices to get people to book the package that they want to book. They need to make sure that they are positioned in a way that make them appealing to be booked.

This episode is all about creating offers that you want to sell as a brand photographer and that actually serve your clients.

01:06 Why Clients Aren't Booking Your Top Package

01:53 Upcoming Masterclass: Double Your Prices

02:48 Common Mistakes in Offer Positioning

05:49 The Importance of Asking the Right Questions

08:15 Creating a Signature Session

11:53 Ideal Session Length

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Double Your Prices Masterclass: May 14 at noon CST - Learn how to make more money with brand photography by attracting high-value clients on repeat. Register now!

#165: Is Your Website Repelling Brand Photography Clients?

Thu, 01 May 2025 03:00:00 -0400

Is your website actually attracting the right clients? I use my website as a major tool for booking, and it’s a big part of what I teach inside my coaching program. When you understand the power of a site that consistently converts visitors into clients, you’ll be so glad you took the time to invest in it.

Because honestly? You can get by without a website for a while. But if you’re ready to attract higher-value clients (champagne clients), you need a site that makes your business look as legit as it actually is.

In this episode of Take It Personally, I’m sharing the biggest website mistakes I see brand photographers make—the ones that are keeping you from booking more of your dream clients.

01:08 The Power of a High-Ranking Website

03:47 Common Website Mistakes

03:55 The Importance of Niching

05:50 Showcasing Yourself Effectively

06:57 Beyond Pretty Photos

08:45 Effective Website Copy

10:48 Clear Calls to Action

12:06 Masterclass on May 14

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Double Your Prices Masterclass: May 14 at noon CST - Learn how to make more money with brand photography by attracting high-value clients on repeat. Register now!

#164: The Secret to Landing Clients Who Elevate Your Portfolio and Help You Attract More Clients

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

In order to become the brand photographer everyone wants to book, you’ve got to start with clients—but not just any clients. When it comes to brand photography, not all clients are created equal.

Inside my group program, Rebrand, where I teach photographers how to confidently double their prices, I talk a lot about focusing on what I call champagne clients.

In this episode, we’re diving into what a champagne client actually is, how to identify them, and why booking more of them helps you attract even more dream clients.

01:06 The Importance of Champagne Clients

02:04 Identifying Champagne Clients

04:35 Characteristics of Champagne Clients

07:20 The Value of Client Experience

08:11 Recognizing and Attracting Champagne Clients

13:21 Sign Up for the Double Your Prices Masterclass

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Double Your Prices Masterclass: May 14 at noon CST - Learn how to make more money with brand photography by attracting high-value clients on repeat. Register now!

#163: The 3 Factors That Make Brand Photography Clients Choose YOU

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

About 10 years ago I moved to Sioux Falls, and my family wasn’t sure I’d make it as a full-time photographer. There were already so many in the area, and to them, the market felt saturated.

Now I run a full-time photography business that’s grown more than I ever imagined and a big part of that is the work I’ve put into building a strong personal brand.

My story, along with many of my Rebrand students’ stories, proves that even in a crowded market, you can become the go-to brand photographer people are excited to book.

I know personal branding can feel a little nebulous, so that’s what we’re diving into in this episode. I’m breaking down the three things that will actually help you stand out as a brand photographer.

01:06 The Journey to Full-Time Photography

01:56 The Power of Personal Branding

04:11 Understanding the 'Know, Like, Trust' Principle

05:26 The Importance of Reputation

13:31 Building Rapport with Clients

19:15 Creating Lasting Relationships

23:57 Masterclass Invitation

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Double Your Prices Masterclass: May 14 at noon CST - Learn how to make more money with brand photography by attracting high-value clients on repeat. Register now!

#162: The Discovery Call Framework My Students Use to Consistently Book Brand Photography Clients

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

When I was a wedding and portrait photographer, I avoided discovery calls like the plague. I'm a classic millennial and just didn't want to get on a phone call.

Now, as a brand photographer, discovery calls are a major source of income, and I'm a huge advocate for them.

I know discovery calls can feel awkward and salesy, but this episode is going to flip that script. I’m walking you through the exact framework my students use to turn warm leads into dream brand photography clients through discovery calls.

01:06 The Importance of Discovery Calls

01:39 Framework for Successful Discovery Calls

03:02 Building Trust and Rapport

05:43 Setting Up and Conducting Discovery Calls

10:40 Understanding Client Needs

12:19 Concluding the Discovery Call

16:20 Client Follow-Up and Next Steps

18:05 Join the Rebrand Waitlist

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Join the Rebrand Waitlist: my 12-month program to help you become a booked out brand photographer. Sign up here or DM me the word WAITLIST on Instagram

#161: The ONE Thing You Need to Do to Create Diverse Brand Sessions

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

One of the biggest challenges brand photographers face is making sure their sessions don’t all look the same. If you’re shooting in the same studio over and over, or if you tend to work with clients in similar industries (like realtors, photographers, or coaches), it can start to feel like your work is getting repetitive.

I’m breaking down why preparing before each session by doing research is the secret to making every shoot feel fresh and customized. This episode also dives into how to actually do this, starting with discovery calls to get the key details you need (I teach this process in Behind the Shot!).

01:07 Avoiding Repetitive Brand Photography Sessions

03:05 The Importance of Discovery Calls

05:12 Tailoring Shoots to Ideal Clients

08:39 Learn This Process in Behind the Shot Course

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Behind the Shot: Learn how to plan, shoot, and deliver your first brand session to rave reviews. Use code SPRING to save $250.

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images that will get your clients singing your praises. Download here!

#160: Book More Brand Sessions (When You Don't Have Any to Show)

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Booking brand photography clients can feel tough when you're just starting out or when you don’t have much brand photography in your portfolio yet. And even if you've been shooting for a while, trying to attract a different type of client without the right work to showcase can feel just as challenging.

That’s why I’m such a big fan of portfolio building! It’s an incredibly helpful strategy, and honestly, it’s something I still do in my business.

In today’s episode, I’m walking you through the process of portfolio building: how it works and how you can use it to book more brand photography sessions.

01:32 Importance of Portfolio Building

02:26 Behind the Shot Spring Sale

03:48 Steps to Portfolio Building

05:39 Selecting the Right Clients for Portfolio Building

10:01 Pitching to Potential Clients

13:55 Executing the Perfect Portfolio Shoot

18:57 Post-Shoot Best Practices

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Behind the Shot: Learn how to plan, shoot, and deliver your first brand session to rave reviews. Use code SPRING to save $250.

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images that will get your clients singing your praises. Download here!

#159: What is Brand Photography, Really?

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

One of the biggest challenges in booking high-paying brand photography clients is helping them understand what brand photography actually is, and how it’s different from other types of photography.

Until they truly get this, it can be tough to get them to invest four figures in a session or see the full value of what you offer.

In this episode, I’m breaking down what brand photography really is (because it’s so much more than just headshots) and how you as a photographer can clearly explain it to potential clients to book more sessions with confidence.

01:07 Behind the Shot Spring Sale

03:00 Understanding Brand Photography

05:56 Personal vs. Commercial Brand Photography

07:37 The Importance of Variety in Brand Photography

10:56 Building Trust and Planning for Success

14:23 Upcoming Challenges in Behind the Shot

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Behind the Shot: Learn how to plan, shoot, and deliver your first brand session to rave reviews. Use code SPRING to save $250.

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images that will get your clients singing your praises. Download here!

Instagram @maddiepeschong

#158: My Studio is 5 Years Old! Ask Me Anything

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 05:30:00 -0400

This episode celebrates five years of my photography studio, White Space, and one year in its new location. I'm detailing my journey, from finding the original space in 2019 to moving during the pandemic while five months pregnant.

I'm discussing the ups and downs, including dealing with a difficult landlord and eventually building a dream studio in collaboration with a supportive realtor and builder.

This episode also covers key lessons learned, and the non-negotiable features for my new space. I answer listener questions about finding and furnishing a studio space, encountering challenges, and assessing whether the venture was worth it.

03:46 Ask Me Anything: Studio Space Insights

05:01 The Journey to the Second Studio

07:04 Designing the Dream Studio

07:23 Financial Concerns and Solutions

21:57 Lessons Learned and Challenges Faced

25:58 Joys and Positives of Owning a Studio

29:35 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

#157: Laura booked her biggest VIP photo session (with ease and aligned sales)

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 09:45:00 -0400

In this episode, Laura Pulliam joins us again. Laura is the owner of Simple Vintage Photography in North Houston. This conversation with Laura focuses on the ways that she has grown throughout the course of her being in Rebrand and how she's combined skills and strategy to create a business she loves.

We discuss her initial struggles with imposter syndrome, the transformations she experienced in her business, and her impressive leap in charging for her services (from $375 sessions to an $1875 VIP day!). Laura also talks about how selling brand photography can feel natural, as well as how she's navigated certain client situations recently. Tune in to hear about Laura's growth and other insights about building your brand photography business.

02:04 Laura's Journey and Mindset Transformation

02:50 The Rebrand Program: Building Confidence and Skills

03:36 Laura's Experience and Wins

07:57 The Importance of Authentic Selling

10:28 Navigating Client Inquiries and Staying True to Your Brand

19:06 Mindset Shifts and Business Integrity

22:26 Resentment around Business and Clients

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

Instagram @simplevintagephotography

CONNECT WITH LAURA

LINKS

Rebrand is enrolling now! When you join, you get immediate access to the curriculum, and live coaching calls. If you want to be THE brand photographer in your area, become more confident in your business, and charge four figures for brand sessions, I would love for you to join Rebrand. Learn more about the program here.

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images that will get your clients singing your praises. Download here!

Instagram @maddiepeschong

#156: Catie used coaching to refine her packages and land high-end clients

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 03:45:00 -0400

In this episode, I sit down with my friend and Rebrand student, Catie, a seasoned brand photographer from Dallas, Texas. She shares how she leveled up her business to attract higher-paying clients and book larger projects.

We dive into the importance of creating a signature session, setting effective pricing strategies, and building the confidence to communicate your value. Catie also opens up about her experience in my Rebrand group coaching program and how it helped her refine her packages, improve her marketing, and increase her bookings for high-end clients.

01:55 The Journey to Higher-Priced Sessions

02:56 Creating Your Signature Session

04:15 Catie's Experience and Insights

05:13 The Importance of Investing in Yourself

10:09 Navigating Client Expectations

14:35 The Value of Coaching and Community

22:05 Catie's thoughts on Rebrand

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

Instagram @catieronquillo

CONNECT WITH CATIE

LINKS

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images that will get your clients singing your praises. Download here!

On Instagram @maddiepeschong

#155: Katie built confidence by positioning herself as a brand photographer and filled her brand minis

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 19:15:00 -0400

I'm joined by Katie, a photographer specializing in both brand photography and family portraits—and a Rebrand student! We chat about her journey from family portraits to finding her passion for brand photography, the challenges she faced, and how Rebrand transformed her business.

Katie shares the benefits of niching down, building confidence, and tips for running successful mini sessions. She also highlights the support inside Rebrand, from portfolio reviews to group calls.

Tune in for Katie’s inspiring story and insights on growing as a brand photographer!

Episode highlights:

01:07 Being a Dual Positioned Photographer

04:19 The Journey to Rebrand

05:16 The Appeal of Brand Photography

06:21 Standing Out in a Crowded Market

10:27 The Power of Mini Sessions

12:40 Community and Support in Rebrand

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

On Instagram @katieonbrand

CONNECT WITH KATIE

LINKS

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images that will get your clients singing your praises. Download here!

#154: Jill quadrupled her January income year over year and launched her new brand

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 12:30:00 -0400

Today's episode features a conversation with my Rebrand student, Jill Neil! We're diving into not just her experience inside Rebrand but also the incredible personal rebrand she’s undergone over the past year.

It’s been amazing to watch her transformation, going from offering a mix of photography services to confidently positioning herself as a brand photographer. And the results speak for themselves! Jill has quadrupled her income, crediting both the strategy she gained inside Rebrand and the power of her rebrand in elevating her online presence.

She has truly led by example, showing her own clients what it means to build a strong personal brand.

Tune in as Jill shares her journey, the impact of getting her own brand photos done, and how she gained clarity in her marketing.

Episode highlights:

01:06 Jill's Rebrand Journey

03:43 Jill's Background and Business Evolution

06:14 Challenges and Realizations in Niching Down

09:15 The Impact of Personal Branding

15:34 Marketing Strategies and the Booked Out Challenge

24:15 Final Thoughts and Rebrand Program Insights

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

CONNECT WITH JILL

LINKS

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images that will get your clients singing your praises. Download here!

#153: Malwina booked her biggest session living in a small town

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 12:02:00 -0400

In this episode of Take It Personally, I'm thrilled to interview my friend and student, Malwina Aviles. Malwina shares her journey from being a therapist to pursuing full-time brand photography after joining my group program, Rebrand.

The discussion covers overcoming common challenges like pricing and client communication, the importance of a signature session, and the benefits of investing in personal branding. Malwina also shares her strategies for rapid growth, including effective content creation, personalised client experience, and maintaining professionalism. Listen in to learn how to build a successful photography business and attract dream clients.

04:22 Malwina's Journey and Wins

08:52 The Importance of Personal Branding

10:22 Rebrand Program Insights

15:49 Building Trust and Professionalism

24:14 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

28:02 Conclusion and Call to Action

Links

Rebrand is enrolling now! When you join, you get immediate access to the curriculum, and live coaching calls. If you want to be THE brand photographer in your area, become more confident in your business, and charge four figures for brand sessions, I would love for you to join Rebrand. Learn more about the program here.
Connect with Malwina on social @malwina_brand_photographer
The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images that will get your clients singing your praises. Download here!
Full show notes

#152: Roxanne tripled her prices and feels more confident than ever

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 16:51:00 -0400

Roxanne is a Rebrand student and she's sharing her transformative experience going from charging $450 per session to averaging $1,400 per session. In this episode we talk about the value of mindset shifts, resilience, and investing in self-development to provide exceptional value to clients. Through her journey, Roxanne highlights the significance of mentoring, community support, and having a mindset focused on continuous improvement and alignment with personal values. The episode culminates with practical advice for photographers on pricing strategies, personal branding, and the power of authenticity in business.

Links

Rebrand is enrolling now! When you join, you get immediate access to the curriculum, and live coaching calls. If you want to be THE brand photographer in your area, become more confident in your business, and charge four figures for brand sessions, I would love for you to join Rebrand. Learn more about the program here.
Connect with Roxanne on social https://www.instagram.com/hawaimages/
The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images that will get your clients singing your praises. Download here!
Full show notes

#151: You Don't Need a Bigger Audience to Sell Brand Photography

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 10:59:00 -0400

Oftentimes, I hear from people wanting to book more brand photography that they think they need to go out and find brand photography clients. They believe their current followers aren’t interested, so they need to look elsewhere for potential clients.

I’m here to tell you that you don’t need a huge or brand-new audience to succeed in selling brand photography. Instead, your first focus should be on how to convert the people who already follow you. There are already people in your audience who would make amazing brand photography clients! This episode walks you through what you can start doing to make that happen.

01:19 Understanding Your Audience for Brand Photography

03:41 Creating Engaging Content for Your Audience

07:00 Positioning and Marketing Your Brand Photography

09:05 The Importance of Client Experience and Referrals

10:20 Building a Personal Brand for Your Business

10:55 Exclusive Bonuses and Rebrand

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Booked Out Masterclass: Learn how to find and book brand photography clients so you can get your nights and weekends back! Sign up here to join me on February 5 at noon CST.

Join Rebrand: Doors open February 5 to my 12-month branding program that takes you from a photographer-who-shoots-brand-photography to a Booked Out Brand Photographer in just 90 days. Bonuses include a 1:1 pricing profit call for the first 10 sign ups, and a ShowIt website template for the first 15 sign ups.

#150: Why You Need to Put Pricing On Your Website

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 14:59:00 -0400

We're talking about the latest drama on Threads. This isn't a new conversation, but it's come up again, so I wanted to discuss it too. The topic is whether you should or shouldn't have pricing on your website.

I firmly believe you should put your pricing on your website! And in this episode, I want to talk about why.

00:46 Pricing on Your Website?

01:35 The Importance of Transparency in Business

03:24 Custom Pricing and Client Investment

04:59 Package Differentiators and Client Selection

08:12 The Role of Personal Branding in Sales

10:06 Masterclass and Rebrand Program Details

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Booked Out Masterclass: Learn how to find and book brand photography clients so you can get your nights and weekends back! Sign up here to join me on February 5 at noon CST.

#149: Two Simple Ways to Book More Brand Photography Clients

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0400

I hear from many people that referrals are a strong part of their business. While I love referrals, and they can be a great way to book more brand photography clients, I believe it's important to also have other strategies in place. And that's because you can't control the amount of referrals you're getting.

In this episode, I'm sharing two simple ways to book more brand photography clients. You don’t need more referrals or better skills to make these work, and the quality of your photos isn’t the problem. What’s missing are these two things.

Episode highlights:

04:11 Get Visible

04:49 Proper Positioning

07:02 Speak Your Client's Language

09:37 Masterclass Details

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS

Booked Out Masterclass: Learn how to find and book brand photography clients so you can get your nights and weekends back! Sign up here to join me on February 5 at noon CST.

#148: How Brand Photography Can Help Make Your Income More Consistent

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 14:58:00 -0400

Income consistency is a hot topic because, historically, when I was a wedding and portrait photographer, I struggled with maintaining consistency in my business.

At the time, I just had to embrace it because I didn't feel like there was another way. However, when I started thinking about leaving my 9-5, I knew I couldn't afford to have months where I wasn't working.

Brand photography changed everything for me. It brought the consistency I was looking for because there isn't a specific time of year when brand photography is especially busy (unlike weddings, which are often crammed into the warm-weather months in South Dakota).

If you're ready to escape the feast and famine cycle, brand photography is the solution you've been looking for. Tune in to the episode to learn more, and sign up for my Booked Out Masterclass below.

Episode highlights:

01:11 The Energy of January for Brand Photography

02:16 Booking Out Q1-Strategies and Challenges

03:48 Consistency in Income as a Photographer

06:20 Embracing Slow Seasons in Brand Photography

07:49 Unexpected Busy Seasons and Trends

14:32 Masterclass Invitation and Final Thoughts

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS:

Booked Out Masterclass: Learn how to find and book brand photography clients so you can get your nights and weekends back (plus income consistency!). Sign up here to join me on February 5 at noon CST.

#147 How I Booked a $20,000 Headshot Project

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0400

At the end of 2022, I received an inquiry from a local business looking to update their headshots. It was a large firm with multiple locations, and I quickly realized it would be a major project.

I was very much in head about sending a $20,000 proposal, but I knew the value I was offering went beyond just headshots (keep listening to hear more about my ecosystem approach).

I ended up booking the project, and it was one of the simplest projects I've ever done. It was not only a positive experience but also a confidence builder.

In this episode, I share how I booked the project and how you can land big projects too, even if you don't live in a large city or typically work with big brands (be sure to sign up for the masterclass to learn more on this).

Episode Highlights:

03:05 Booking a $20,000 Project

05:27 Being positioned as a brand photographer

06:25 Building rapport with the client

08:23 Simplifying the experience and partnering with the client

09:50 Masterclass Details

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS:

I'm hosting a live masterclass, Three Secrets to Booking Brand Photography Clients, on October 17th at 12pm Central. Sign up here! (Replay available if signed up)

#146 How I Doubled My Prices and Stayed Booked

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In 2022, I doubled my photography prices. I was booking out a few months and knew I wanted to be able to elevate the client experience, so I ripped the bandaid off.

In this episode, I'm sharing how I doubled my prices and tips for elevating your business and still attracting dream clients.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Upcoming Masterclass Info

003:28 Doubling Photography Prices

06:23 Mindset Shift for Higher Pricing

08:40 Positioning as a High-End Photographer

10:31 Enhancing Client Experience

12:10 Success Stories

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS:

I'm hosting a live masterclass, Three Secrets to Booking Brand Photography Clients, on October 17th at 12pm Central. Sign up here! (Replay available if signed up)

#145: What I Learned from my First Brand Photography Client

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0400

When I left my 9-5 job in 2018, I was a wedding photographer, and at one point I ventured into product photography.

I got connected with a brand called Little Sleepies and worked with them for a few years. They were my first official brand photography client, and I learned so much through that experience.

I think what really worked with this relationship was Little Sleepies and I were both new at the same time. This concept of connecting with new businesses is something I help my clients with who are looking to explore brand photography. Shooting for free or at discounted rates to get experience and build relationships is actually an unpopular opinion I have.

This episode shares my thoughts on that, my experience with Little Sleepies, and details for a live masterclass happening October 17th.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Masterclass Details

01:57 Transition from Wedding to Brand Photography

03:50 First Brand Photography Client: Little Sleepies

06:01 Lessons Learned from Little Sleepies

10:04 The Value of Free Shoots

14:35 Client-Centric Approach in Brand Photography

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS:

I'm hosting a live masterclass, Three Secrets to Booking Brand Photography Clients, on October 17th at 12pm Central. Sign up here! (Replay available if signed up)

#144: How I Made $7k in One Day with Mini Sessions

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 09:29:00 -0400

You still have time to sign up for my free training on Thursday with Zenfolio! Learn how to make 4-figures with mini sessions. Register here: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/e03c3d64-de85-419c-909c-8fd8f07286d1@f53224c4-9d71-44c1-9fad-19b66d9d1121

#143: The Elite Brand Photographer

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 04:30:00 -0400

This episode is part of my quiz series, where I tell you all about the four archetypes of brand photographers. You can go here to take the quiz, Are You Ready to Be a Brand Photographer, and I will tell you what your brand photographer archetype is!

This episode is diving into the fourth archetype, The Elite Brand Photographer. If you got this result in the quiz, keep listening to discover your best next step towards becoming a successful brand photographer.

Episode highlights:

01:31 Understanding the Elite Brand Photographer

01:59 Challenges and Solutions for Elite Brand Photographers

05:27 Scaling Your Business to Six Figures

06:42 Quiz and Private Podcast

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

#142: The Exclusive Brand Photographer

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 04:15:00 -0400

This episode is diving into the third archetype, The Exclusive Brand Photographer. If you got this result in the quiz, keep listening to discover your best next step towards becoming a successful brand photographer.

Episode highlights:

01:46 Understanding the Exclusive Brand Photographer

02:39 Challenges and Strategies for Exclusive Brand Photographers

04:27 Marketing and Client Acquisition for Brand Photographers

05:49 Transitioning Skills from Wedding and Portrait Photography

06:08 Engage and Connect: Share Your Journey

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

#141: The Dual Positioned Photographer

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0400

This episode is diving into the second archetype, The Dual Positioned Photographer. If you got this result in your quiz, keep listening to discover your best next step towards becoming a successful brand photographer.

01:08 Exploring Brand Photographer Archetypes

01:30 Understanding the Dual Positioned Brand Photographer

02:37 Key Considerations for Dual Positioned Photographers

03:41 Marketing Strategies for Brand Photography

04:21 Enhancing Client Experience

05:06 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

#140: The Brand New Photographer

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 03:45:00 -0400

This episode is diving into the first archetype, the Brand New Photographer. If you got this result from the quiz, keep listening to discover your best next step towards becoming a successful brand photographer.

Episode highlights:

01:27 The Brand New Photographer: Starting from Scratch

03:08 Building Your Portfolio and Client Base

05:26 Rewind Program

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

#139: Are You Ready to be a Brand Photographer? Take the Quiz!

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 03:30:00 -0400

One of the most common questions I get is, "Am I ready to be a brand photographer?" And this is actually a loaded question.

In my experience, there are four types of photographers who are interested in brand photography. To help you figure out where you stand and what steps you should take next, I created a quiz called "Are You Ready To Be a Brand Photographer?"

In this episode, we'll dive into the quiz and these four brand photographer types. By taking the quiz, you'll discover your type and get a clear roadmap for what you should focus on to start charging four figures as a brand photographer.

In the next four episodes of the Take It Personally, we'll explore each brand photographer type in more depth, giving you actionable steps to become the go-to brand photographer in your area.

Take the quiz!

#138: Why I Don't Believe in Imposter Syndrome Anymore

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Welcome to today's episode, where I am going to rant about why I don't believe in imposter syndrome anymore.

There are a few reasons, which we'll get into, but specifically I believe that people are often using the phrase "imposter syndrome" incorrectly. What's typically behind that feeling is actually a lack of confidence because you are doing something new.

And that can be a good thing! Because you can work on building that confidence. Tune in to hear the rest of this discussion.

Episode highlights:

01:18 Defining Imposter Syndrome

01:39 Imposter Syndrome in Minority Groups

02:30 Mislabeling Lack of Confidence as Imposter Syndrome

04:09 Building Confidence Through Practice

06:28 Personal Experiences and Overcoming Challenges

07:46 Practical Advice for Photographers

09:33 Embracing Lack of Confidence

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

LINKS:

#137: Slow Season? Do THIS

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0400

I've been hearing from so many photographers lately that they feel bookings are slow right now. Their inquiries are down, and they're not booking as much as usual.

And while these seasons can be very challenging, I know from experience that sitting in your feelings is only helpful for so long. If you are needing to provide for your family, it's okay for it to feel discouraging, but you also can't just keep waiting around. Instead, you need to take action and do something about not booking as much business. That is what this episode is about.

I'm exploring reasons behind fewer bookings, mindset shifts to make, and key money-making strategies to implement to help with this season.

00:53 Personal Experience with Business Downturns

02:22 Mindset Shift: Don't Overthink Slow Bookings

03:45 Analyzing Past Data to Understand Trends

09:37 Immediate Actions to Boost Bookings

09:51 Money-Making Activities to Implement Now

14:35 Brand Building During Slow Seasons

17:55 Enhancing Client Experience

I know that it can feel really frustrating to be in a slow season. But what I want to remind you of is that it is truly just that - a season!

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

LINKS:

#136: The Sneaky Way You're Jeopardizing Client Relationships

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, the Maddie delves into the recent trend of photographers posting their editing queues on social media and argues why this practice is detrimental to their brand. The episode explores the reasons why photographers might choose to share their workload publicly and reveal the negative perceptions and impacts it can have on clients and potential customers. Tune in for a nuanced discussion on business branding and client management in the photography industry.

00:38 The Controversial Threads Post

01:58 The Trend of Sharing Editing Queues

03:13 Client Communication Issues

05:09 Poll Results and Client Perceptions

06:56 The Importance of Clear Communication

11:53 Effective Client Communication Strategies

15:34 Automating Client Communication

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

LINKS:

Flodesk: My favorite email marketing platform. Get 50% off your subscription here or with the code MADDIE.

#135 Getting Started as an Educator ETHICALLY with Laylee Emadi

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 05:30:00 -0400

Today's episode is a previously published episode from my friend Laylee's podcast, So, Here's the Thing. I've been asked frequently about getting into education, and honestly, this episode is the perfect one to listen to if you're thinking about making the move!

#134: I've Been Feeling Overwhelmed - Here's What I'm Doing About It

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 09:00:51 -0400

Lately I have found myself feeling overwhelmed after having a marathon in my business in the spring that went past its original end date. I feel I've gotten into the habit of taking on too much and not having enough boundaries. I'm trying to reset things, and I wanted to walk through the process of what I do when I start to feel this way.

This episode will discuss what can contribute to overwhelm and some actionable steps to overcome it. Highlights from this episode:

01:21 Identifying the Source of Overwhelm

03:52 Learning New Skills and Systems

06:15 Unrealistic Expectations

09:29 Overconsumption and Digital Detox

10:57 Taking Control: Steps to Overcome Overwhelm

12:28 Setting Boundaries and Self-Care

23:12 Finding Balance and Perspective

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

LINKS:

#133: What's in My Gear Bag for a Brand Photography Session?

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 09:00:51 -0400

In this episode, I'm sharing my minimalist approach to photography gear! I doubt that it's a surprise when I tell you that I am not much of a gear-head when it comes to my photography business. Obviously there are certain tools that I need to do my job and do it well, but I am not the person to go out and buy the newest camera out there.

I got my start in photography with a $300 camera. It was a crappy camera, but I loved it. I had it for years until I upgraded. Truthfully, it is so much more about knowing how to use the tools than it is the newest and latest and greatest gear.

That said, gear can still make a difference, and that's why I want to take you inside my gear bag on a typical brand photography session. It's not super fancy. It's definitely not complicated. And it's what I have at 99% of sessions.

Episode highlights:

00:31 My First Camera - Humble Beginnings

01:26 Upgrading Over the Years

01:48 The Importance of Skill Over Gear

02:26 Inside My Gear Bag - Current Essentials

02:46 My Camera Body

09:09 Lens Choices

13:30 Lighting Equipment

18:29 Additional Tools

22:43 Keep It Simple

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The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

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#132: My Favorite Business Books (and fiction reads, too!)

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 09:00:54 -0400

If you have been in a conversation with me for longer than 5 or 10 minutes, we've probably talked about what I'm reading. This is one of my favorite topics, and in this episode I'm sharing my specific reading routine, plus my top favorite book recommendations.

00:58 The Power of Nonfiction and Fiction

04:13 Favorite Business Books

14:51 Top Fiction Picks

25:55 Embracing a Reading Ritual

I would love to hear your top favorite reads or if you feel inspired to implement the reading routine I shared! Come and connect on Instagram to let me know.

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

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The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

#131: Ready for Your Business to Explode? Do THIS (with Green Chair Stories)

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0400

Rachel Greiman is a copywriter and documentary family photographer in Denver, CO. She owns Green Chair Stories, a company committed to writing websites that get photographers booked. The episode conversation dives into the benefits and challenges of niching down in the photography and copywriting industries.

Rachel offers practical advice on how photographers can effectively market their services when juggling multiple niches, the importance of having a focused brand voice, and strategies for DIY-ing your website. Whether you're a photographer looking to specialize or someone interested in improving your website copy, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

00:17 Rachel's Background and Journey

02:49 The Evolution of Green Chair Stories

05:53 Challenges Photographers Face with Copywriting

10:05 DIY Tips for Photographers' Websites

13:52 Balancing Multiple Photography Niches

20:46 The Importance of Niching Down

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#130: Rebrand Spotlight - Balancing Creativity and Strategy with Laura Pulliam

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Laura Pulliam shares her journey of officially starting her own photography business two and a half years ago. She shares her interactions with Rebrand, from initially signing up during a chaotic time to fully committing.

Laura talks about how Rebrand helped her discover her niche in brand photography, build confidence, and implement crucial business systems and processes. She highlights the valuable resources, community support, and coaching that enabled her to flourish in her business.

00:48 Connecting with Rebrand

03:58 The Decision to Join Rebrand

06:56 Implementing Rebrand Strategies

17:04 Success Stories and Client Experiences

19:45 The Value of Rebrand

CONNECT WITH LAURA

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The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

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Rebrand is now enrolling! When you join, you get immediate access to the curriculum, and live coaching calls start on July 17. If you want to be THE brand photographer in your area, become more confident in your business, and charge four figures for brand sessions, I would love for you to join Rebrand. Learn more about the program here.

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

#129: Finding Clarity in Rebrand with Krista Marie

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 09:00:11 -0400

Krista Marie is a photographer, podcast host and business coach for women creatives & small business owners. Her experience as a personal brand photographer also helps to support her clients in identifying their own unique personal brand. Krista was part of my last Rebrand cohort.

In this episode, Krista discusses her journey from wedding and engagement photography to brand photography. Krista speaks about the pivotal moments that led to her shifting focus, including her experience with burnout and the need for creative fulfillment. She shares insights on the changes she implemented in her business after joining Rebrand, particularly the restructuring of her photography packages. Krista also emphasizes the significance of coaching and the role it played in her business transformation.

01:40 Krista's transition to Brand Photography

04:00 Challenges Before Joining Rebrand

06:51 Restructuring Packages and Pricing

13:41 Impact of Coaching and Rebrand

22:02 Advice for Future Rebrand Participants

25:36 Favorite Features of Rebrand

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#128: Everything You Need to Know about Rebrand

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 09:00:59 -0400

In this episode, learn about Rebrand, my 16-week group coaching program for photographers who want to transition into personal brand photography. The program aims to help participants charge four figures per session while enhancing their confidence in brand photography. The episode discusses the structure of Rebrand, including weekly coaching calls, a comprehensive curriculum with swipe files and templates, and a Slack community for continuous support. Key features include portfolio reviews, a booking tracker for measuring success, and the upcoming Rewind video training series. Enrollment begins on June 14 with the new cohort starting on July 17. Learn more about Rebrand here!

Highlights from this episode:

00:00 Introduction to Rebrand Enrollment

00:29 Why Rebrand Was Created

01:42 The Importance of Personal Branding

04:00 Rebrand Program Structure

05:10 Resources and Tools in Rebrand

10:21 The Rewind Feature

11:47 Group Calls and Community Support

15:24 One-on-One Support and Portfolio Reviews

19:08 Accountability and Success Tracking

23:09 Enrollment Details

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

Rebrand Waitlist: Enrollment opens June 14

LINKS:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

#127: Make Your First $500 with Brand Photography - Here's How

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 09:00:40 -0400

If you're looking to pivot into personal brand photography, I'm running a live mini-workshop running from June 10-14 to help you make your first $500. This episodes walk you through what will be covered in the training to help you successfully transition into the personal brand photography niche and ultimately start making money. Listen in to this episode to get an overview, and be sure to sign up for the free Brand Photography Jumpstart Mini Course here.

Highlights from this episode:

00:00 Embarking on the Personal Brand Photography Journey

00:54 Introducing the Brand Photography Jumpstart Mini Course

02:58 Day 1: Establishing Your Position as a Brand Photographer

04:04 Day 2: Crafting Your First Brand Photography Package

05:04 Day 3: Identifying and Connecting with Your Ideal Client

06:34 Day 4: Marketing Strategies for Brand Photographers

08:00 Day 5: The Importance of Building Your Personal Brand

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

Brand Photography Jumpstart: Free training to help you make your first $500

LINKS:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

#126: Are Your Thoughts Making Your Business Harder?

Thu, 30 May 2024 09:00:36 -0400

This episodes discusses the transformative impact of positive thinking and mindset work on running a photography business. When running your own business, it can be easy to have negative thoughts, get discouraged, or experience jealousy. I think everyone's been there.

But learning to recognize unhelpful thoughts and reframe them can make a huge impact on how you show up in your business. This episode shares tips for overcoming these challenges. Here are the highlights:

01:11 The Impact of Mindset on Business Success

03:56 Navigating Negative Thoughts and Reframing Your Mindset

10:39 Practical Steps to Shift Your Business Mindset

13:27 Real-World Examples of Mindset Shifting in Action

15:56 Encouragement to Embrace Mindset Work for Business Growth

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

LINKS:

Join the Rebrand waitlist here: opening June 2024

#125: Can You Be a Brand Photographer if You're not a Branding Expert?

Thu, 23 May 2024 09:00:47 -0400

I'm talking about the misconception that you need to be a branding expert to excel in brand photography. Your business background and marketing knowledge can be sufficient. And truly what brand photography comes down to is asking the right questions and understanding the client's goals. Crafting strategic brand sessions is key!

If you're willing to think strategically with your brand sessions and figure things out, brand photography is definitely for you, even if you don't feel like a branding expert. Here are the highlights of this episode:

00:30 Overcoming the Brand Expertise Myth

00:59 The Power of Asking the Right Questions

02:17 Embracing New Challenges in Brand Photography

02:56 Creative Approaches to Unfamiliar Industries

04:19 Leveraging Existing Resources for Inspiration

05:50 The Importance of Strategy in Brand Photography

07:31 Adopting a Figure-It-Out Mindset

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

LINKS:

Join the Rebrand waitlist here: opening June 2024

#124: Everything Changed When I Started Doing THIS for Brand Sessions

Thu, 16 May 2024 09:00:54 -0400

As a baby brand photographer, I would sometimes get frustrated after delivering photos to clients and having them not use their photos. It wasn't because they didn't like the photos. They sent positive reviews and sent referrals even. But they wouldn't post their photos.

The consensus was often that they were overwhelmed, didn't know where to start, or were busy with the next step in their business by the time they got their images back. I even implemented additional steps like offering post-session strategy calls, Loom videos, and an after session guide, but it still wasn't working.

It wasn't until I switched around my approach that I was able to not only better plan for my client's brand sessions but also help them have a plan for when they got their images back. This episode is talking about what I changed. Here are the highlights:

00:36 Enhancing Brand Sessions with Post-Session Support

02:25 A Lightbulb Moment for a New Approach

02:58 The Power of the Discovery Call

05:09 Designing Sessions with Strategy and Purpose

06:09 The Importance of Asking the Right Questions

10:51 The Impact of Strategic Planning on Brand Photography

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

LINKS:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

#123: Hear from my Real Client! Why Your Brand Sessions Need Strategy

Thu, 09 May 2024 09:00:14 -0400

Cassie Beech, owner of Made with Grace and Grit, is a brand photography client of mine and joined me for a conversation about the significance of brand photography in business.

Cassie shares her initial struggles with DIY brand content and the transformation after adopting a strategic approach to brand photography, which includes collaboration and planning, professional hair and makeup, and selecting optimal locations. We delve into how strategic, professional brand photos can boost business image, attract the ideal clients, and provide a bank of quality content for various marketing needs. Here are the highlights from this episode:

00:32 The Power of Interior Design and Personal Connections

01:18 Interior Design vs. Interior Decorating: Cassie's Expertise

02:36 Strategic Brand Photography and Interior Design Synergy

03:52 Elevating Business with Strategic Brand Photography

15:50 Maximizing Brand Potential with Professional Photography

23:11 The Strategic Edge in Brand Photography

CONNECT WITH CASSIE:

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

LINKS:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

#122: How Rachael Transformed Her Brand Session Experience

Thu, 02 May 2024 09:00:57 -0400

Rachel, of Rhody Ray, shares her journey from having a scattered approach to photography to niching down and strategizing her brand photography business. Through the Build a Strategic Brand Session training and Rebrand coaching, Rachel was able to have a plan to transition from wedding photography to brand photography, while keeping her clients top of mind.

Rachel discusses the challenges of shifting her brand's focus, the importance of strategic planning and client questionnaires, and how pitching to potential clients has enhanced her business and confidence. Her experience with returning clients since her strategic pivot showcases the long-term benefits and growth opportunities in brand photography. Here are the episode highlights:

00:34 Rachel's Journey Before and After Rebrand

04:03 Transitioning from Wedding to Brand Photography

06:25 The Power of Pitching and Embracing Rejection

11:27 Gaining Confidence and Strategy Through Training

19:47 Evolving Brand Photography with Strategy

25:46 Attracting and Retaining Dream Clients

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#121: The One Thing You Need to Sell Out Your Mini Sessions

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:00:45 -0400

So often I hear from other photographers that their mini sessions were a failure. When asking them about it, they share they only promoted it a few times but because no one was booking, they stopped sharing about it. This mistake of essentially quitting before starting is something I commonly see with mini sessions.

The only way to fill your mini sessions though is to talk about them! Many photographers get really in their head about marketing their mini sessions, but their mindset around it is so important, which is the topic of this episode. Any time you are struggling to market your mini sessions, it feels like a failure, or it feels like you're being annoying - come back to this episode! Here are the highlights:

00:44 The Power of Persistence in Marketing

02:23 Switching to a Launch Mindset for Mini Sessions

03:40 Understanding Audience Engagement and Frequency

05:08 Pricing Strategies for Mini Sessions

07:24 Handling Unsubscribes and Unfollows Positively

11:17 Adopting a Business Mindset for Success

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

Make 4-Figures with Mini Sessions Free Live Training on April 25 at 12pm CST: Sign up now!

LINKS:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

FULL SHOW NOTES HERE

#120: How Sean Booked 30 Mini Sessions as a New Photographer

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 09:00:22 -0400

In this episode of Take It Personally, Sean, owner of Unique Unicorn Photography, shares his transformative experience with the Make Four Figures with Mini Sessions training. Initially struggling to attract clients after deciding to fully commit to their photography business, Sean and his wife discovered mini sessions as a strategic entry point for client acquisition. The episode delves into how this approach not only built their portfolio rapidly but also significantly increased their client base by booking 30 families during a single weekend.

Sean discusses the importance of marketing, branding consistency, and the value of community building. He reflects on how mini sessions became a key component for business growth, client satisfaction, and a means to efficiently showcase their work and get referrals. This story is a testament to the power of mini sessions in kickstarting and expanding a photography business.

00:12 The Journey to Unique Unicorn Photography

00:37 Discovering Mini Sessions: A Game Changer

04:01 The Impact of Training on Business Strategy

10:43 The Success Story: Booking 30 Families

18:12 Marketing Strategies and Building a Client Base

19:44 The Future of Mini Sessions

21:58 Wrapping Up: The Power of Mini Sessions

CONNECT WITH SEAN

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

Make 4-Figures with Mini Sessions Free Training on April 25, 2024 at 12pm CST: Sign up now!

LINKS:

Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

FULL SHOW NOTES here

#119: How I Consistently Have High-4-Figure Mini Session Days

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 09:00:44 -0400

In this episode, I share my successful strategy for conducting high-4-figure mini session days! Since starting mini sessions in 2020, I have seen significant revenue growth and average $7,000 on these mini session days. I'll be sharing an overview of the simple strategy I have in my business that allows me to accomplish this. Here are the main highlights from this episode:

00:52 My Mini Session Journey: From Start to Success

01:58 Strategic Insights: Transforming Mini Sessions into Brand Builders

03:29 Yearly Growth: A Deep Dive into My Mini Session Evolution

05:55 Maximizing Profits with Smart Mini Session Strategies

10:59 The Power of Limitations: Crafting the Perfect Mini Session Offer

15:24 Marketing Mastery: How to Promote Your Mini Sessions Effectively

16:14 Next Steps & Free Training

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

Make 4-Figures with Mini Sessions Free Live Training on April 25 at 12pm CST: Sign up now!

LINKS:

The Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

FULL SHOW NOTES HERE

#118: Do I Really Need an Email List as a Local Business?

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 09:00:20 -0400

The topic of email marketing seems to be coming up more and more both inside of Rebrand, my group coaching program, and just in general. When I am talking to other creatives, it's always things like, "Do I really need an email list? Should I start using email as opposed to social media?"

I've utilized email marketing in my business and am a huge believer in it. But I personally have a few issues with how email is being sold to a lot of creative entrepreneurs, specifically local service providers, like photographers who serve a local market.

If that is you and you've had related questions about email before, this episode focuses on the power and nuances of email marketing. Here are highlights from this episode:

01:00 The Rising Importance of Email Marketing in Creative Industries 03:25 The Misconceptions and Realities of Email Marketing for Local Service Providers 06:43 Navigating the Challenges of Email List Building and Marketing Strategies 11:20 Determining if Email Marketing is the Right Strategy for You 16:49 Lazy Email List Growth: A Game-Changer for Local Service Providers 26:40 Maximizing Your Business with Effective Email Marketing Techniques and Waitlists 27:40 Exclusive Training Opportunity: Elevate Your Mini Session Game

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

Make 4-Figures with Mini Sessions Free Live Training on April 25 at 12pm CST: Sign up now!

LINKS:

Flodesk Email Marketing (50% off your first year with this link)

FULL SHOW NOTES HERE

#117: Leveraging AI in your Photo Business with Tech Savvy Creative

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 09:00:03 -0400

Dawn is a former software engineer, turned wedding photographer, who pivoted back to technology to assist creatives in overcoming their intimidation with tech. Dawn is currently juggling roles as a Product Marketing Manager at Flodesk and running Tech Savvy Creative.

In this episode, she shares her journey and the importance of integrating technology into creative professions. Topics we discuss in this episode are the transformative power of AI in photography, tools like ChatGPT for content creation, highlighting how AI tools can significantly save time and enhance productivity, and tools for improving business efficiency. Through her expertise, Dawn emphasizes the potential of AI to handle mundane tasks, enabling creatives to focus on their passions and excel in their craft. Here are highlights from this episode:

01:31 Dawn's Journey into Tech and Product Marketing

02:42 The Power of AI in Photography and Business

04:47 Exploring AI Tools for Content Creation

08:24 The Revolution of AI in Photo Editing

16:50 Maximizing Efficiency with AI in Meetings and Video Content

23:02 The Future of AI and Its Impact on Creativity

24:31 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Dawn

CONNECT WITH DAWN:

Instagram | Website | YouTube

CONNECT WITH MADDIE:

Flodesk Email Marketing - get 50% off your first year

LINKS:

Dawn's AI Toolkit for Creatives

Brand Session Shot List: 10 must-have images

FULL SHOW NOTES HERE

#116: How I'd Handle Business Money Differently If I Were Starting Over with Gina Knox

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 12:00:00 -0400

One of my goals at the beginning of 2024 was to act like a grown up when it comes to my finances, and I have to say, I'm killing it so far–and that is in huge part to the program 6 Figure Saver. I'm thrilled to have Gina Knox, the financial coach behind 6 Figure Saver, on the podcast today.

Gina is known in her circle as Money's Mom, and helps entrepreneurs with variable income save six figures in their businesses. In under three months, I've saved just shy of $40,000 in this program without cutting expenses or strict budgeting. Instead, Gina emphasizes the significance of spending on the right things, and paying yourself as part of your operating expenses–not an afterthought.

The episode delves into what Gina (and I) would do differently if starting our businesses again, with a strong focus on financial strategies including setting realistic income goals, focusing on current problems rather than future ones, avoiding unnecessary spending, and the importance of paying oneself as a business owner. Here are some highlights:

01:10 The Impact of Gina's Program: Six Figure Saver 05:07 Gina's Advice on Organizing Business Finances 06:22 Introduction to the Cashflow Waterfall Strategy 10:09 The Importance of Strategic Spending in Business 10:52 Creating an Annual Investment Plan 11:58 The Dangers of Future Problem Spending 18:59 Setting Realistic Goals for Business Growth 20:59 Overcoming Money Blocking Thoughts 23:31 The Value of Focusing on One Service 25:19 The Importance of Paying Yourself as a Business Owner

You can follow Gina on Instagram, and find more information about 6 Figure Saver here. The program is now enrolling.

#115: Using Blogging to Connect with Ideal Clients with Kate Wark

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Kate has been on the podcast before talking about Rebrand, and I love what Kate is doing with her business. Her photography business sort of started “accidentally” and after working together in Rebrand, she was able to drop down to part-time in her 9-5 to be able to spend more time on her photography business.

Alongside taking brand photos, Kate also helps clients with copywriting! She took her PR skills to be able to grow another arm in her business where she offers blogging services to creatives.

Visuals are a huge part of personal branding, but messaging is so important too. Kate is sharing tips for how blogging can be a huge part of growing your business, connect with clients, and help you stand out. Here are the main things talked about in this episode:

Why blogging isn’t dead
SEO and Google searches
Providing value to clients
Repurposing content
How to utilize frequently asked questions to direct people to your blog
Being seen as a thought leader
Consistency tips for blogging
Kate’s 5 favorite blog topics for photographer
Connecting with clients
Use blogs to cover client questions

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