When it comes to building a photography business, you need a camera, some clients, and a little bit of hustle, and you’re good, right?

Well, while you do need all those things, Kristina Mack would argue that you need one more essential piece: your business fundamentals. Planning your workflows, creating detailed and well-crafted experiences for your clients (even if you have a basic budget), and understanding how to price for profitability can make or break your business.

So today, Kristina is sharing the steps she took to create a sound, profitable photography business that has lasted decades–without burning out! She’s giving us her best tips for new photographers in the industry including how they can develop their own unique style and how other photographers can join her mentorship program and start making positive changes in the industry.

If you’ve been hustling, but never feeling like you’re getting anywhere in your photography career, you can’t miss this episode. Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:38] How Kristina’s career plan changed from commercial to newborn and maternity photography

[07:26] Kristina’s advice for photographers still trying to figure out their unique style and perspective

[16:42] Why new photographers have to spend time building their business fundamentals, from client management to pricing and workflows

[26:53] How Kristina thinks about outsourcing and the process she uses to find and train her editors

[30:46] The mindsets and philosophies that Kristina teaches in her photography business school

[34:53] Kristina’s lightning round

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/tiny-posers-how-to-build-a-long-lasting-newborn-photography-brand-with-kristina-mack/

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If I can be frank for a moment: as creatives, we sometimes get too precious about our process of creating art. We need the right conditions, the best lighting, the perfect mindset, or else we feel like we can’t create because it might not be perfect or even good.

The problem is, we can get so hung up on this that we never end up creating at all as we wait for all the stars to align. So in this episode, I’m sharing how I’ve started letting go of this ideal standard of creativity to just get back to creating. 

I’m sharing thoughts from some of my favorite authors on all the different ways they push through roadblocks and just start doing. Because at the end of the day, done is better than good. And to get there, sometimes we just have to start and let go of the outcome. Let’s get started!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[01:06] A common tendency that keeps creatives from creating

[03:00] How resistance keeps us from doing our work

[05:52] How to loosen our grip on perfectionism and get back to creating

Tune in to this episode for a little pep talk on taking our creative process off a pedestal and getting back to just creating!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/stop-putting-your-creativity-on-a-pedestal/

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Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “I wish I could have a luxury brand, but…”

Well today, Lindsay Walden is here to address those “but”s. Because you’re probably not lacking talent or clientele or even location, the first thing you need to address is your trepidation. When it comes to luxury, confidence and willingness to step into the space in the first place is what keeps most photographers on the outside.

In this episode, Lisa chats with Lindsay all about her workflow for luxury clients, how she structures her sales, and why positioning in the luxury market matters as much (if not more) than anything else. We also dive deep into the money hang-ups that keep many women from even attempting to break into the luxury photography space.

If you’ve been trying to establish a luxury brand, but are struggling to find clients, this is the episode you need. Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:21] How Lindsay went from snapping scenes underwater to maternity photography and how the photography landscape has changed during her career

[06:37] What a luxury photography experience looks like with Lindsay (and why she focuses on digital image sales)

[11:14] The key elements you need to cultivate a luxury photography brand

[17:25] How Lindsay tailors each session to her clients

[22:12] How Lindsay structures her pricing to expenditures like props, wardrobe, etc

[25:17] Pricing mistakes that photographers make over and over

[34:57] The fears photographers make up for themselves (ie. luxury clients are harder to work with)

[40:10] The market doesn’t care and how that can be freeing for photographers

Tune in to this episode for the encouragement you need to start cultivating your luxury photography brand!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/expertly-crafted-experiences-and-top-tier-service-how-to-build-a-luxury-photography-brand-with-lindsay-walden/

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We all have thought patterns we fall into from time to time. Things like self-doubt, procrastination, perfection are all classics for many creatives. One might say we even indulge–or over-indulge–in some of these emotions to our own detriment.

Because while we can’t prevent ourselves from feeling the whispers of these emotions, letting them linger too long ultimately hurts our energy and creativity.

So in this episode, Lisa is sharing how she’s learned to break free from indulging in negative emotions and the positive impact it’s had in her life and career.

Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[00:24] The different emotions we might be indulging in

[02:36] Why we indulge in these sometimes unhelpful emotions

[03:40] How to break the loop of overthinking

[05:43] Why we get stuck indulging in self-doubt and what positive self-talk can do for us

[07:12] How to start finding joy and excitement in creativity again

Tune in to this episode for a little pep talk on the emotions we should and shouldn’t be indulging in!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: [LINK]

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Between the two of them, Jenny and Allison have decades of experience as luxury photographers. And this year, after being friends and colleagues for much of that time, they’ve finally launched a brand new program together to empower photographers to take control of the business side of their work.

In this episode, Lisa sits down with Jenny and Allison to chat all about what exactly The Profitable Portrait Society is, some of the biggest hurdles they see photographers face over and over again, and how to break through the pricing and marketing mindset issues that keep many photographers unprofitable. 

No matter where you are in your photography career, this episode is going to give you some food for thought! Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:29] How Jenny and Allison started working together and how The Profitable Portrait Society was born

[05:38] How to break out of the head-in-the-sand mentality when it comes to your pricing as a photographer

[13:08] Why photographers get lost in “busy work” and how to break out of that cycle

[21:26] What marketing should actually look like for a photographer (hint: it’s not one boosted FB post)

[36:49] How creatives and photographers can avoid burnout while balancing the constant need to market and create content

[49:13] The best business advice Jenny and Allison have received

Tune in to this episode for a little kick in the pants to start running your photography business like a real business!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/stop-selling-yourself-short-how-to-price-and-market-yourself-to-be-a-profitable-photographer-with-jenny-cruger-and-alison-craig-of-the-profitable-portrait-society/

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Baking often gets described as a science instead of an art, which might be true to some degree… But while we can get a recipe from someone else, we still have to adjust to the unique environment we’re working in, whether it’s dry, humid, using different brands of flour, etc. We have to experiment and test and trial it until we find the recipe that works best for our own environment.

And it’s not just baking that’s subject to this. As it turns out, creative success works pretty much the same way.

In this episode, Lisa sits down to address her recent podcast break, her success (finally!) at baking sourdough, and how that taught her that creativity is something we all have to hone through experimentation, trial and error, and persistence.

Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[00:21] Why we needed a podcast break

[01:43] A personal baking success story (after a string of less successful experiments…)

[03:27] Why following someone else’s photography “recipe” won’t work for you

[05:20] Why practice and repetition are necessary for greatness when it comes to creativity

Tune in to this episode for a little pep talk on creative persistence!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/kneading-creativity-sourdough-and-the-photographers-journey/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

When it comes to sharing her love of art, color, photography, and business, Kellee Wynne isn’t shy. But that openness and willingness to say what’s on her mind didn’t always feel like a good thing when she was growing up. Instead, it’s been a skill she’s spent more than a decade refining and cultivating through her various business ventures as an artist, author, business mentor, and podcaster.

In this episode, Kellee and I chat all about sharing knowledge and cultivating a community online. We dive into why speaking your mind is a gift to your audience (and it's not actually pushy or bossy!) We also chat about her brilliant marketing skills, from how she dives into the mind of her clients to streamlining her content creation process–and why even though we might be multi-passionate as creatives, we still need to niche down when it comes to business. 

There is SO MUCH wisdom in this fun conversation! Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:26] Why Kellee Wynne founded her company, Color Crush Creative

[07:45] Why understanding your customer’s desires is the key to effective marketing

[11:52] The Primary Content Machine and how Kellee uses it to streamline her content creation

[17:32] How Kellee helps her clients to find clarity on what they want and need

[23:44] How Kellee is embracing AI and learning to integrate it into her business

[31:04] Why Kellee values “we over me” and incorporates community values into her mentoring business

[34:32] How multi-passionate artists can embrace their interests while also niching down to create a more sustainable business

[38:40] Kellee’s lightning round

Tune in to this episode to learn how Kellee Wynne takes mentoring creatives to the next level!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/boss-not-bossy-how-kellee-wynne-helps-others-fulfill-their-dreams-by-sharing-her-knowledge-and-why-you-should-too/

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The age of AI is here… and that’s not a comforting realization for many of us working in the creative field. But the technology isn’t going away, so what if we could use AI tools to elevate our work, instead of replacing us?

That’s the future Justin Benson and the team at Aftershoot have in mind for AI in the photography field. In today’s episode, Justin shares just what Aftershoot is, why it can be a game-changing assistive technology for photographers, and how he hopes the creative world will adapt to the advent of AI.

If you’ve been struggling to make sense of AI’s introduction into photography, this conversation will be so uplifting and encouraging for you. Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:35] What Aftershoot is and how it can help photographers (especially if you’re an over-shooter)

[08:57] How Aftershoot is continuing to improve and add additional features

[11:08] How the concept for Aftershoot was developed and why it’s always had elevating photographers as a core ethos

[14:41] Some workarounds to use Aftershoot in a variety of workflows

[17:33] How Justin sees AI continuing to evolve in the photography field

[22:14] Justin’s best advice to photographers just starting to incorporate AI into their workflow

[28:31] Justin’s lightning round, including a few more tips for beginning photographers

Tune in to this episode to learn more about how we can grow with AI technology like Aftershoot as photographers!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/how-embracing-an-ai-workflow-can-help-you-become-a-more-efficient-photographer-with-justin-benson/

Get access to the 2024 Family Retreat, starting May 15th!

Before Valerie Eidson found photography, she tried every other creative field first. Eventually, she found herself behind a camera with a new problem: how to learn and develop her own voice and style.

In today’s episode, Valerie and I sit down to chat about the key decisions that helped her create her own unique perspective when it comes to her photography. She shares her best advice for other photographers just starting out (spoiler: you just have to keep shooting), and how she navigates the balance between fostering creativity, her business, and her family!

This episode is full of amazing advice. Let’s jump in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:20] Valerie shares all the creative careers she tried before finding photography

[07:00] How Valerie navigates her way out of creative droughts

[11:25] How Valerie manages the demands of her family and her business

[16:25] How Lisa and Valerie are both experimenting with AI (and navigating the pros and cons of these new systems)

[22:59] Valerie’s advice for finding your own unique creative voice

[25:17] How Valerie tries to balance shooting vs editing in a way that doesn’t feel totally overwhelming

[31:15] Valerie’s lightning round

Tune in to this episode to learn more about the unique way Valerie developed her voice as a photographer!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/take-your-shot-how-to-find-your-unique-photography-voice-with-valerie-eidson/

Get access to the 2024 Family Retreat, starting May 15th!

While artistic interest runs in Anna Kruse’s family, she didn’t immediately take an interest in photography. In fact, she didn’t even begin photography until she became a mother, but it wasn’t until the loss of her father that she finally decided to make photography into her career, after truly understanding the gift of captured memories. 

In today’s episode, Anna vulnerably shares her story of love, loss, and passing her family’s artistic legacy to another generation. She explains what photography means to her and why it’s drawn her into family photography. She also shares how these experiences have helped her to connect with her families and capture their own vulnerable, open moments on camera.

This episode is so tender and meaningful. Let’s jump in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:31] The familial loss that propelled Anna into her photography career

[08:08] How Anna’s change in environment affected the way she approaches photography

[11:03] Why Anna is so passionate about capturing family connections

[17:20] The unique way Anna thinks about storytelling when capturing these sweet family moments

[23:19] The best piece of business advice Anna has ever received

[25:31] How Anna sets families at ease when capturing vulnerable moments on camera

[31:42] Anna’s lightning round

Tune in to this episode to learn how Anna Kruse’s unique family history has influenced her photography career!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/love-loss-and-legacies-why-anna-kruse-is-so-passionate-about-capturing-timeless-family-moments/

Get access to the 2024 Family Retreat, starting May 15th!

When it comes to motherhood and business, there is no perfect balance. In some seasons, one takes precedence over the other… and that’s okay! Finding success in both requires holding space and giving ourselves grace when both parts of our life feel less than harmonious. 

In this episode, family photographer Aspen Dawn shares how exactly she goes about navigating the ebb and flow of motherhood and her photography business. She shares the mental health struggles she’s faced and the ways she gives herself compassion to keep herself mentally well as she manages a thriving business. 

This episode is SO raw and real. You can’t miss it!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[04:58] Aspen shares how motherhood propelled her into photography

[10:11] What inspired Aspen to focus on motherhood, family, and maternity photography

[13:14] How Aspen does (and doesn’t) find harmony between her family and her photography career

[21:19] Why Aspen is a passionate mental health advocate and how she prioritizes her well-being to stay mentally and physically healthy

[26:43] Aspen’s tips for capturing authentic family connections in photography 

[30:00] Aspen’s lightning round

Tune in to this episode to learn how Aspen Dawn navigates motherhood and mental health while running a thriving photography business!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/ebb-and-flow-the-myth-of-finding-balance-as-a-mother-and-business-owner-with-aspen-dawn/

Get on our waitlist for  the 2024 Family Retreat, starting May 15th!

Sandy beaches, wind and waves, and small children everywhere… sounds like a recipe for chaos when it comes to a photoshoot, right? Well, to be honest, it is! And that’s okay with Kristen Coberly. 

In this episode, Kristen shares how she’s learned to embrace the chaos of photographing large families by planning for multiple outcomes, going with the flow, and learning to turn toddler meltdowns into memorable keepsakes. She shares her very best tips for photographing big families, including the pre-session prep she does with each family. 

This episode is so fun and chock-full of helpful tidbits! Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:03] How Kristen got her start in photography (and why she loves large families so much!)

[04:05] Kristen’s best tips for keeping photo sessions with large families fun and stress-free

[10:44] How Kristen stays flexible and fluid when it comes to her beach photography sessions

[17:44] Kristen’s unique take how she manages her shot lists

[20:21] How Kristen manages kiddos who just aren’t cooperating at her photo sessions and her “Sand, Nap, Snack” strategy

[26:00] Kristen’s Lightning Round

Tune in to this episode to learn how Kristen Coberly keeps her large family photo sessions fun and as stress-free as possible!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/from-chaos-to-keepsakes-the-joy-of-photographing-large-families-with-kristen-coberly/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

For Liz Devinny, photography isn’t her only interest. In fact, her passion for art and education (she’s a middle school and high school teacher!) led her into her photography career. Along the way, she’s developed her own playful, bright style by experimenting with color and using her teaching experiences to set all of the family members at her photo shoots at ease.

In this episode, Liz shares how she got started in photography, how she created her signature style and encourages her students to do the same, and how she gets older children to open up and feel more comfortable at her photo sessions.

If you’re looking to add more ease and fun into your family photography sessions,  you can't miss this episode. Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:57] Liz introduces herself and her passions, including education, art, and photography

[05:09] How Liz helps her students develop their own signature style through experimentation and exploration

[09:20] The techniques Liz uses to help her clients loosen up so she can catch relaxed, fun feelings on camera

[14:48] Liz’s advice for how photographs can avoid and recover from burnout

[20:13] How to set boundaries for a photographer – and why you really need them

[24:22] Liz’s advice for getting older children to feel more comfortable and participate in photoshoots

[33:13] Details on Liz’s upcoming workshop in Ireland and how you can plan your own international workshops

Tune in to this episode to learn how Liz Devinny fosters a playful atmosphere at every photo session!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/play-prompts-and-passion-how-liz-devinny-creates-playful-photography-masterpieces/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

Iwona Podlasinska started her career as an architect, but once she became a mother, she discovered her newest inspiration: her children. That prompted her to pivot into the world of photography, and she’s been honing her creative craft ever since!

In today’s episode, Iwona and I chat about her incredible career as she’s focused on fine art children’s portraiture and educating other photographers. We dive into how she’s developed her own eye-catching style, how she thinks about composition, and the way she directs her clients to capture just the right mood in every portrait. 

If you’ve ever wanted to dip your toes into fine art photography, you can't miss this episode. Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[03:27] Iwona shares how she got her start in photography and why she focused on education early

[05:41] How Iwona uses social media and how she rebuilt after losing her Instagram account

[12:42] What inspires Iwona and how she’s created her signature style

[18:27] How Iwona manages traveling for her work as a photographer with two small children at home

[25:31] How Iwona sets the mood in her photography sessions through composition choices and direction for her clients and models

[41:09] The new teaching models Iwona is working on to continue educating other photographers

Tune in to this episode to learn how Iwona Podlasinska crafts her magical fine art children’s portraits!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/scroll-stopping-storytelling-creating-fine-art-childrens-portraits-with-photographer-iwona-podlasinska/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

Nicole didn’t start her career as a photographer. She just had a love for animals and knew she wanted to work with them forever! When she finally did pick up a camera, it took her a few years before she niched down to just pet portraits, but since then, she’s created a thriving, profitable business doing just that!

In this episode, I chat with guest Nicole Begley on what got her into photography, why niching down was a scary, but necessary, choice for her business, and the mindset changes that allowed her to reach real profitability in her photography business. Nicole is also a brilliant educator (and teacher at our upcoming Family Photography Online Retreat), and she shares the four stages all of us as photographers go through and what we need to move forward in each stage.

This episode has something for everyone. Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:27] Nicole explains her life-long love of animals

[05:09] Why Nicole is a huge proponent of niching down and how niching down to pet photography elevated her own business

[10:49] How Nicole prepares for her pet photography sessions and interacts with her furry friends the day of the session

[16:35] How Nicole handles nervous pet owners 

[20:28] The four stages of photography business that every photographer goes through 

[26:09] The messaging shifts photographers need to make to move through each stage

[30:29] Nicole’s lightning round, including her best business advice!

Tune in to this episode to learn how niching down can help you create a thriving photography business, just like Nicole has done with pet portraits!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/a-passion-for-pet-portraits-making-furry-friend-photography-a-profitable-business-with-nicole-begley/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

As creatives, the legal side of running a business can be really intimidating for us. What protection do we need? Can we just use a contract from the internet? What do we do when someone steals our photographs?!

Well, in today’s episode, I’m chatting with Kiffanie Stahle to answer all your burning legal questions and hopefully ease some of your fears around the legal process! Kiffanie is so gracious and takes her time explaining exactly what we need to know about contracts, copyrights, liabilities, and payment policies. 

If you’ve been avoiding some of the legal tasks in your business because it’s felt too overwhelming, this episode is for you! Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:43] How Kiffanie created the magical life she is currently living in her RV 

[05:00] Why contracts aren’t as scary as creatives make them seem, but why you should still have a lawyer create a custom one for you

[10:24] The kinds of clauses and additions you do –and don’t– need in your photography contract

[18:34] Everything you need to know about protecting your copyrights as a small business photographer

[33:07] What photographers should know when writing their pricing and payment policies

[39:24] How photographers can protect themselves from liability in a variety of situations

[43:55] The double-edged sword of social media for photographers

[47:48] Kiffanie’s lightning round, including some really creative business advice she has to share

Tune in to this episode to learn about the must-do legal tasks for your photography business to set yourself up for success!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: http://themilkyway.ca/contracts-copyrights-and-copycats-the-must-do-legal-tasks-for-your-photography-business-with-kiffanie-stahle/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

As photographers, we’d love to spend all of our time just photographing and working with our clients. Unfortunately, in 2024, it takes a little more than that to attract new clients to your business, but cultivating a successful marketing mindset doesn’t always feel intuitive to creatives.

So in today’s episode, I’m talking to Carolina Guzik, expert photographer, host of the TOG Republic podcast and marketing genius, to discuss the way she successfully markets her own business. We cover so much ground here, including how we should reframe the way we present our marketing on Google, Pinterest, and social media, how we can use our unique interests to create connections with our clients, and how we’ve got to let go of how we feel about our marketing and use data as our guide instead.

This is such a good episode full of actionable tips. You’re going to love it. Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:22] The unique experiences that lead Carolina to her photography career

[04:49] How Carolina stays on top of the marketing for her business

[08:52] How Caroline plans her ideas for social media and marketing

[15:18] How Carolina’s love of reality TV helps her market her business

[22:10] How to boost your social media engagement as a photographer

[25:05] How to rethink the way you approach SEO and how this applies to both Google and Pinterest

[33:52] Why Pinterest and marketing for your business in general is a long game that pays off over time (like training for a marathon)

[40:50] Carolina’s lightning round where she dishes out advice for photographers just starting out and the creative pursuits she’s passionate about right now

Tune in to this episode to learn how you can shift your marketing mindset to attract more clients, both now and in the future.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/marketing-mindset-makeover-why-its-time-for-photographers-to-rethink-their-marketing-strategies-with-carolina-guzik/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

Everywhere you look on the internet, you can find pricing guides, information, and others talking about the revenue their businesses generate. And that’s all fine and good, but at the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter when it comes to your individual business. What really matters is whether or not you’re pricing for profit in your business.

But “what about industry rates?” you may ask. Well, in today’s episode, my guest Jamie Devlin is here to remind us why we need to keep our eyes on our own paper and worry about what’s going to get us clients in our niche and make a profit in our own business. 

She shares how she got started in the industry (and why she had to start making a profit right away), how marketing has changed in the photography industry in the last decade, and why it might be time to rethink the way you approach pricing. Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[02:38] Jamie’s do or die start in the photography industry and how she’s pivoted since then

[08:36] Why pricing is so specific to your unique business and why you shouldn’t read too much into others’ revenue numbers

[12:01] How marketing in the photography industry has changed in the last decade and how Jamie finds clients currently

[23:51] Why you need to find your “real why” before you can run your business authentically

[28:28] Jamie’s advice for when you’re getting inquiries, but not closing sales

[35:33] How to crunch your numbers and set your pricing to have a profitable business

[42:54] How Jamie stays inspired in her business, even in the midst of her busy life

Tune in to this episode to learn how pricing for profit can transform your photography business.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/the-profitable-photographer-pricing-for-profit-in-your-photography-business-with-jamie-devlin/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

If you’re alive in 2024, I’m sure you’re familiar with the concept of overwhelm. It’s so common, little space robots on Mars are even feeling it (not a joke, this literally happened!) In fact, these feelings of overwhelm can be so powerful, that they paralyze us from getting anything done at all!

But with distractions, options, and ideas everywhere these days, how do we manage and cope with being overwhelmed?

Well, in today’s episode, Lisa is going to lay out a tried and true system for managing tasks in your business and avoiding the executive dysfunction that comes with having so much on our plates! She also shares common reasons we might feel overwhelmed, what context switching and executive dysfunction are and why they both contribute to overwhelm – and yes, the story of the little overwhelmed space robot. Let’s dive in!

What’s in this episode:

[00:00] Intro

[01:09] Why even space robots feel overwhelmed and how this leads to procrastination

[03:00] All the things that can contribute to overwhelm

[04:30] How to identify when you’re feeling overwhelmed

[07:05] How to organize and categorize the tasks causing you to feel overwhelmed

[15:17] What executive dysfunction is and how we can prevent it from paralyzing us

Tune in to this episode to learn how to avoid the overwhelm and keep procrastination from paralyzing your business!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/the-procrastinating-robot-with-lisa-digeso-strategies-to-deal-with-overwhelm-procrastination/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

Does it ever feel like you’re working around the clock but still can’t seem to get anything done? There’s a common misconception that the more we work, the more productive and successful we’re going to be. But that’s simply not true!

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Brittnie Renee, a professional family photographer and educator who helps her students leverage systems and intentional time blocking to streamline their businesses and optimize productivity in 15 hours per week or less! We cover her strategies for overcoming distractions, prioritizing tasks, setting healthy boundaries, and so much more! If you want to learn how to hone your focus and finally move your business forward without the burnout, then this is the episode for you!

What’s in this episode:

[02:17] How to embrace systems when you struggle with organization

[12:46] Time blocking a 15 hour work week and overcoming distractions

[19:01] Conquering overwhelm, decision fatigue, and how to prioritize tasks

[26:12] The importance of setting and maintaining boundaries to avoid burnout

[29:14] The ways self-care can look different for everyone

[38:19] Strategies for being more financially mindful

[40:32] Tools and resources for working efficiently

[44:42] Streamlining work with AI culling software

Tune in to this episode to learn how you can achieve more by working less.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/picture-perfect-productivity-strategies-for-streamlining-your-photography-business-with-brittnie-renee/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

Does your photography business ever feel like it’s just too “heavy” to maintain? Is your messaging lacking a clear strategy that sets you apart from the competition? Are you struggling to attract your ideal clients on a consistent basis?

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Sean Brown, a professional senior photographer and educator who has mastered the systems, strategy, and authenticity required to launch a successful photography business. 

We cover so many important points from taking a leap of faith, to laying the foundation that’ll allow you to scale your business, to why the work that we do can be life changing for struggling youth. If you want to set your photography business up for long-term success, then this is the episode to help you do it!

What’s in this episode:

[02:53] Sean’s leap from the medical field into photography

[10:12] The power of branding and taking your business seriously

[16:36] How showing up with authenticity can help you attract more clients

[26:10] The 3 phase launch framework and where photographers get hung up the most

[38:23] The messaging blueprint for successfully promoting your business on social media

Tune in to this episode to learn how leveraging systems and authenticity can help you scale your photography business.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/countdown-to-success-using-the-rocketship-blueprint-to-propel-your-photography-business-forward-with-senior-photographer-sean-brown/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

When you’re a photographer, you learn that no session is quite the same as the last! That’s especially true when working with children and, in particular, children who are neurodivergent. So what can you do during those sessions to ensure your studio is a safe and inclusive environment for everyone? This guest has the answer!

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Stacey Feasel, a professional family photographer and parent of a neurodivergent child herself. You’ll hear how her own experience has influenced her approach to photography, why it’s so important to be flexible and attuned to different needs, and her best advice on creating a seamless and memorable experience for every family. Want to feel more confident photographing neurodivergent children? Listen in now!

What’s in this episode:

[02:08] How being the parent of a neurodivergent child has influenced Stacey’s career

[07:20] How Stacey advocates for the neurodivergent community in her sessions

[14:36] How Stacey communicates her “why” message through photography

[18:07] How to work with neurodivergent children that are higher needs

[20:01] Important location scouting tips and special considerations

[26:11] Asking the right questions and creating seamless sessions

[31:14] Establishing an inclusive environment in your studio

Tune in to this episode to learn how to accommodate neurodivergent children in your photography sessions.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/focus-on-inclusion-empathy-and-advocacy-in-photographing-neurodivergent-hildren-with-stacey-feasel/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

As photographers, many of us are guilty of spending thousands of dollars on equipment, gowns, and props that, at the surface, seem to offer endless variety. But are these things really what drive creativity? Could there be a better investment of your time and resources than the latest trend?

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Esther Kay, a professional maternity photographer and educator who believes that lifetime learning is the best investment you can make in your business. You’ll hear how Esther’s own educational pursuits have helped her push the boundaries of creativity, often with just one or two lights and a strong grasp of how to pose her subjects. If you’ve ever wanted to do more with less and create beautiful, timeless photographs for your clients, then this episode is for you!

What’s in this episode:

[02:14] What inspired Esther to become a maternity photographer and educator

[09:00] Preventing boredom and making new and fresh photography every time

[11:44] Infusing your own creativity and identifying what methods work best for you

[19:45] Insight into Esther’s creative process with her clients and her business model

[27:07] The role of body positivity and being a good listener in maternity photography

Tune in to this episode to learn how you can become a maternity photographer that embraces lifetime learning.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/learning-curves-how-maintaining-a-lifetime-learner-mindset-can-help-you-master-your-fine-art-maternity-with-esther-kay/

Grab the replay for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat!

Preschool aged children are such a fun group to photograph! Just ask Trina Julius, a professional preschool photographer of 10 years who has photographed thousands of 4 to 5-year-olds over the course of her career.

In today’s episode, Trina shares how she discovered her passion for preschool photography and what she loves most about working with this endearing age group where every day is as unique as her subjects. From strategies for working with different personalities to overcoming challenges with critical parents, this episode is full of inspiration and insight into the exciting and often overlooked niche of preschool photography!

What’s in this episode:

[01:51] How Trina discovered her passion for preschool photography

[04:21] Strategies Trina has developed for working with 4 to 5-year-olds

[07:22] Packages Trina offers and advantages of having a large gallery

[11:58] How to photograph very shy children and the need to work efficiently

[17:12] How to overcome unique challenges and critical parents

[22:13] Tools, resources, and tips for staying organized

Tune in to this episode to learn how you can be successful as a preschool photographer.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/the-art-business-of-preschool-photography-with-trina-julius/

Grab your spot for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat, starting on Jan 24, 2024!

As photographers, it’s easy to stifle our own creativity with self-imposed limitations – whether that’s working solely within one particular style or losing sight of how important it is to experiment and embrace new opportunities. But here’s the thing, you don’t have to confine yourself to any one particular box.

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Natasha Simpson, a professional newborn photographer known for her fun, colorful work and her skill when it comes to incorporating elements such as florals and props. Not only does Natasha give herself full creative freedom, she has mastered how to use originality to her advantage. From strategies for staying organized, to standing out in the industry, to overcoming creative burnout in your career, you’ll hear it all on this episode!

What’s in this episode:

[02:10] How Natasha manages being creative with staying organized

[03:44] Natasha’s story and how she discovered the newborn niche

[06:42] Incorporating a love for florals and props into photography

[11:46] Advice on standing out and being unique as a photographer

[13:40] Tips on balancing family and work and being 100% present

[23:25] Overcoming creative burnout and how to get out of a rut

[27:54] Experimenting and defining your own personal style

Tune in to this episode to learn how to embrace your creativity and stand out from the crowd.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/unlock-your-creativity-stand-out-in-the-newborn-niche-with-natasha-simpson/

Grab your spot for the 2024 Online Newborn Retreat, starting on Jan 24, 2024!