Freedom Focus Photography - previously the Hair of the Dog Podcast

240 - In today's episode, we're diving into the realm of marketing automation and its incredible benefits for photographers. Whether you're juggling multiple roles in your business or looking for effective ways to streamline your marketing efforts, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice. Joining us is special guest Dayna Schaaf, a marketing guru from "This Can't Be That Hard," who brings a wealth of knowledge on using tools like ManyChat to enhance client interaction without losing that personal touch for our social media. We’ll discuss the indispensable power of having an email list, provide simple steps to keep your marketing efforts consistent and effective, and share tailored advice for introverts who want to maximize their social media impact without stepping out of their comfort zone. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, these insights will help you attract and retain clients more efficiently while keeping your marketing game strong and stress-free. Get ready to transform the way you engage with your audience and set your photography business up for success! What To Listen For: The Power of an Email List:Simple Steps to Effective Marketing: Leveraging Social Media:Marketing for Introverts: Utilizing MiniChat for Client Interaction: Connect with Dayna Schaaf: Free ManyChat Training for PhotographersInstagramConsistency ClubThis Can't Be That Hard Website Resources From This Episode: ManyChat TrainingHair of the Dog AcademyElevate Coaching Program JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

239 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast! As emerging photographers, many of you might be grappling with the question: "Am I ready to start charging for my services?" It's a hurdle that every new photographer faces at some point. You might feel like your skills aren't polished enough or your portfolio isn't vast enough to justify setting a price. Perhaps there's a lingering doubt whether your business structure is comprehensive enough to start accepting payments. Today, we're diving deep into these insecurities. We'll debunk the myth that you need to be perfect to start charging, explore how to recognize the value you already offer, and discuss how to gauge market response to your pricing. Our goal is to equip you with the confidence to move past self-doubt and start building a profitable photography business, step by step. What To Listen For: The Myth of 'Not Good Enough':Recognizing Your Value: Market Response: Setting Initial Prices: Overcoming Self-Doubt: Resources From This Episode: Hair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramJOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

238 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast! In this episode, we're continuing our exploration of the common excuses photographers make that stall their progress. Heather Lahtinen joins us once again as we call BS on these all-too-familiar myths. Whether it’s the size of your audience, your personal skills in sales, or misconceptions about what clients value, we’re here to break down these barriers. Join us as we tackle more of these limiting beliefs, empowering you to push past the excuses and thrive in your photography business. Let’s dive in and debunk these myths together! What To Listen For: 1. I need a bigger audience first: Debunking the myth that success is solely dependent on having a large following or email list before you can effectively market your services. 2. I'm not good at sales and marketing: Challenging the belief that you are inherently bad at sales or marketing, emphasizing that these are skills that can be learned and improved with practice and education. 3. Clients only care about digital files, not prints or albums: Addressing the misconception that clients are only interested in digital products and showing how diverse client preferences can be, including a demand for physical products like prints and albums. 4. I just need to find the right marketing trick: Dispelling the notion that there is a single, magical marketing trick that will solve all business challenges, encouraging a more holistic and consistent approach to marketing strategies. 5. I need to perfect my skills before I can charge more (or at all): Overcoming the belief that you need to reach a level of perfection in your skills before you can justify charging appropriately for your services. This myth will be discussed in more detail in the next episode. Resources From This Episode: Hair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramConnect with Heather Flourish AcademyFlourish Academy on FBFlourish Academy on IGJOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

237 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of running a successful photography business! Today, Nicole Begley and our mostly-co-host, Heather Lahtinen, tackle the tricky terrain of photography pricing and those stubborn beliefs that just might be holding your business back. Ever whispered to yourself, "That strategy won't work for my photography business," or felt your heart race at the thought of adjusting your pricing? You're not alone. We're here to challenge those thoughts head-on, from debunking market myths to navigating the anxiety around photography pricing. This episode is all about embracing your unique path, standing confidently by your pricing structure, and infusing a bit more joy into your photography business journey. So, settle in and let's unravel these common photography business conundrums together! What To Listen For: Redefining Market Boundaries: "That won't work in my market" is a common refrain by photographers and one that we think is absolutely detrimental to your business. The Price Perception Puzzle: Ever consider that high prices might actually be attracting clients rather than deterring them? Embracing Your Unique Path: No matter how crowded the market may seem - there’s always room for your unique and authentic path. Navigating the Fear of High Prices: Does the thought of raising your prices give you heart palpatations? We’ll reveal strategies to help you confidently stand by your pricing structure. The Power of Reframing Thoughts: Figuring out what thoughts aren’t serving you are only part of the problem - now we need to learn how to reframe them. Resources From This Episode: Hair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramWatch the podcast on Youtube! JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

236 - This episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, hosted by Heather Lahtinen, delves into the "Offline Photographer Challenge" introduced in episode 219. The challenge is part of the Elevate program, designed to help photographers enhance their in-person marketing strategies by engaging with their local community. Heather invites Laura Wombwell to share her experiences and insights on expanding marketing efforts through building relationships with other photographers. The conversation highlights the formation of the Southwestern Ontario Pet Photographer Group, initiated by Laura during the pandemic. This group aimed to create a supportive community where photographers could share referrals, resources, and knowledge. Laura discusses the benefits of this network, including client referrals, shared educational events, and a collective marketing reach that educates the community about pet photography. What To Listen For: Community Over Competition:The Referral Ecosystem:Navigating Client Fit: Setting Standards:Avoiding Negativity The episode explores the importance of mindset, emphasizing community over competition, and the positive impacts of transparency, diversity, and professionalism within the photographer network. It encourages listeners to take on the challenge of networking with other photographers, not just for referrals and business growth but also for personal development and community building. Connect with Heather Flourish AcademyFlourish Academy on FBFlourish Academy on IG Connect with Laura Laura Wombwell Photography Laura Wombwell Photography on IG Laura Wombwell Photography on FB JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

235 - Heather Lahtinen has been a regular guest on the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, bringing her insights and experiences to our vibrant community of photographers. But today's episode unveils a side of Heather we've never seen before - a side that she used to keep hidden. In a candid and transformative conversation, Heather steps into the hot seat not just to share her expertise, but to explore her inner world with the guidance of Michelle Crandall, affectionately known as "The People's Coach” in Elevate. Brace yourself for a deep dive into 'Dark Heather' and the enlightening journey towards embracing all facets of one's self. What To Listen For: 1. The Unveiling of 'Dark Heather': Discover the transformative power of acknowledging and embracing the less polished sides of our personalities. 2. Michelle Crandall's Insightful Coaching: How "The People's Coach" approaches common struggles with self-doubt and negative self-talk, offering a new perspective. 3. A Compliment That Sparks a Journey: A simple interaction at the chiropractor's office leads Heather down a path of self-discovery and reflection on her public versus private self. 4. The Thanksgiving Table of Self: A visualization technique that helps integrate all aspects of one's personality, even those we're tempted to hide. 5. Confronting the Fear of Misjudgment: Tackling the anxiety around how others perceive us and the desire to control those perceptions. Join us on this enlightening journey as Heather and Michelle delve into the intricacies of personal development and self-acceptance, offering valuable insights not just for photographers, but for anyone that happens to be human. Connect with Heather Flourish AcademyFlourish Academy on IGConnect with Michelle Pets in FocusPets in Focus on IG Pets in Focus on FB JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

Welcome to another episode of the Creative Freedom Rebellion - a podcast series within the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, hosted by Nicole Begley and J. Nichole Smith, AKA Nic. Through the past 10+ years of mentoring pet photographers, we’ve noticed that the “why” of many pet photographers falls into one of three buckets. The love of art, the goal of lifestyle, or the love of dog. It’s important to dive into these differences because these motivations can shape not only your work but how you present it to the world. Not a pet photographer? Don’t pass this episode over as it will still be applicable as the first two buckets will be the same, but your love of dog would simply be the love of whatever your subject of choice is. What To Listen For: Embracing the Creative Freedom Rebellion: The Transformation of Pet Photography: Finding Your Niche Within a Niche: Tailored Marketing Strategies: The Joy Factor: We each created our business for different reasons, but one reason that is often universal was the goal of having more fulfillment and freedom in our lives. To make money doing something we love. This episode will open your eyes to the different roads that photographers choose to travel down and how when you know more about your motivation, you can make your business even more fulfilling. For those interested in exploring commercial pet photography, our yearly free training is coming back April 10th - and it’s ALL new this year. Jump on the training waitlist here so you don’t miss your chance to join this incredible free event. Want the video version? Watch here. Resources from this Episode Creative Freedom Rebellion Part 1Connect with NicPouka Art And PhotographyThe Artisan HoundLaura Wombwell PhotographyGreyboy Pet PrintsPawtraits by NicoleKeri Nakahashi PhotographyKristen Murray PhotographyFurtographyJOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

233 - Today’s episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast is an episode that will resonate with photographers across all specialties. In this enlightening conversation, I sit down with Karen Bartos, a boudoir photographer whose journey from landscape and high school senior photography to the intimate world of boudoir is a narrative of transformation and self-discovery that every photographer can learn from. What to Listen For: A Journey of Transformation: The Power of Pivoting: Embracing Change and Overcoming Burnout:The Art of Connection: Mastering Your Mind Circus: Gratitude and Growth:This episode is a testament to the transformative power of photography, not just in the realm of high school senior or boudoir photography, but across all forms of this art. Whether you're capturing landscapes, weddings, pets, or portraits, Karen's story highlights the universal themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the art of turning life's challenges into stepping stones for growth. For those inspired by Karen's story and eager to learn more about her work and insights, she has her own podcast, "The Mind Circus," where she'll delve deeper into the intricacies of our mental landscapes and how they shape our lives and careers. Connect with Karen: WebsitePodcastInstagram JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

232 - Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast! This time, our host, Nicole Begley, sits down with the incredibly talented Korina Joseph, a pet photographer who has truly made waves in the industry. Korina's had her photography business for a few years, but since that virus which shall not be named her business has been on the back burner. First from ‘Rona and then because she became a mom to an adorable little boy. Her journey this year from extreme part-time to full-time professional is nothing short of inspirational, and she's here to share all the juicy details with us. What To Listen For: Korina's Productivity:Goal Setting and Smashing: The Power of Community:Embracing Rejection:Creative Marketing Strategies:Korina's tale is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and a little bit of creativity. Whether you're just starting out in photography or looking to take your business to the next level, there's a wealth of wisdom to be found in this conversation. So, grab a comfy seat, tune in, and prepare to be inspired. Connect with Korina WebsiteInstagramFacebook JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

231 - Ryan Erickson takes us through his transformative journey from wedding photography to launching his mobile dog portrait studio, Fetch Photo Truck. The pandemic prompted him to reassess his career path and follow his true passion for dog photography – a move that has certainly paid off! Ryan dives into the ups and downs of managing a mobile business and stresses the need for setting clear boundaries to keep a healthy balance between work and personal life. He also shares his marketing tactics. However, a crucial ingredient to his remarkable success, which led to over $200,000 in revenue in just his first year as a pet photographer, is his unwavering belief in himself and his venture. Throughout this conversation, Ryan unpacks the hurdles he encountered, the valuable lessons he picked up along the way, and his aspirations for the future. He highlights the significance of self-confidence, generating leads, forging personal connections, and the art of making offers as fundamental pillars for entrepreneurial success. What to Listen For: A Leap of Faith: The Mobile Advantage:Setting Boundaries: Marketing Magic: -Believe to Achieve: This episode isn't just a story; it's a beacon for anyone looking to pivot their career path, especially in the photography realm. Ryan's insights into the nuts and bolts of establishing and growing a mobile photography business are invaluable. So, if you're curious about how to turn your photography passion into a mobile success story or simply love hearing about people following their dreams, this episode is for you. Tune in and let Ryan's journey inspire your next move. Connect with Ryan WebsiteInstagram Facebook JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

230 - We're diving deep into the heart of in-person marketing with our special series, "The Offline Photographer." Hosted by Heather Lahtinen, today's episode is all about the art of the pivot. Chatting with Laura Wombwell from Laura Wombwell Photography in Ontario, Canada, we're unpacking the big question: When is it right to shift gears in your business? From unexpected teaching opportunities to the delicate dance of balancing multiple roles, Laura's journey is a testament to the twists and turns of entrepreneurial life. Grab your notebook, because this episode is packed with real-life lessons on navigating change, seizing opportunities, and the power of saying "yes" even when it scares you. What to Listen For Unexpected TurnsThe Art of Saying Yes: Balancing Acts: Facing Fears and Doubts:Community and Growth: This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a roadmap for any photographer facing crossroads in their business. Whether you're contemplating a new venture, juggling multiple passions, or just looking to inject some old-school, in-person magic into your marketing, Laura's story is a beacon of inspiration. Eager to learn more about mastering the offline marketing game and maybe even discovering your own pivot points? Tune in to this episode and join us as we explore the power of personal connections in growing your photography business. Looking for even more support? This is the type of coaching that happens inside of Elevate - the place to be if you want to grow your photography business. Discover Elevate here. JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

229 - Buckle up for an action-packed adventure with Nicole Begley and Heather Lahtinen, where we dive into the superhero transformation of everyday photographers into unstoppable business heroes, all thanks to theProgress Lab! This episode is like opening a comic book where the characters leap off the page, each with their own tale of bravery and triumph over the business villains of doubt and fear. What to Listen For: The Leap of Faith:Facing the GiantsThe Mindset MakeoverDual IdentityBelief Battles This episode is not just a chat; it's a call to the hero within every photographer, proving that with the right support and a dash of courage, anyone can reveal their inner business superhero. Ready to don your cape and join the ranks of business avengers? Tune in, and let's turn those business dreams into reality! Ready to don your own cape and join the ranks of business avengers? Start by tuning in, but even better than that is joining us at the next Progress Lab April 23-25 in Charlotte, NC. Details at - www.hairofthedogacademy.com/progress JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

228 - In this innovative episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, Nicole Begley introduces a compelling new series titled "The Creative Freedom Rebellion," featuring regular guest J.Nichole Smith. This series is dedicated to emphasizing the importance of defining personal freedom and success on one's own terms. In today’s episode Nicole and Nic delve into various aspects of commercial pet photography, offering insights and strategies to help photographers navigate this exciting but evolving landscape. What to Listen for 1. What Business Model is Best for You: Explore different business models from boutique models focused on products and high sales, to high volume and low cost sessions, or even mini-sessions as your main offering. 2. The Four Levels of Commercial Photography: Discover the various levels of commercial photography, starting with accessible local market opportunities and scaling up to high-end projects. 3. Setting Realistic Expectations: Learn to set achievable goals and understand the real-world benefits and challenges in different photography business models. 4. Strategic Branding and Market Positioning: Understand the critical role of strong brand identity and effective market positioning in the competitive photography market. 5. Real-Life Success Stories: Be inspired by photographers who have made a successful leap into commercial pet photography, and learn from their experiences, including both their challenges and triumphs. If you’ve been curious about how commercial photography could work into your current photography business - this is a must-listen episode. We’ll be hosting more commercial pet photography training in April - jump on the waitlist now to sign up for the free training! JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

227 - In this pivotal episode, Nicole Begley announces a significant change: the podcast is now the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast! This rebranding comes with exciting new directions and offerings, particularly the Freedom Focus Formula course, designed to radically transform the businesses of photographers through pricing, sales, and messaging strategies. Nicole delves into the nuances of building a photography business, discussing the critical transitions and strategies for growth. She also outlines the upcoming changes to the Hair of the Dog Academy, highlighting the enhanced value and focus of the membership options. What to listen for: Join Nicole in this episode as she navigates through these transformative changes, offering a wealth of knowledge and opportunities for photographers at all stages of their career. It's a celebration of growth, learning, and the exciting journey ahead in the world of photography. JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

226 - In this insightful episode of the Hair of the Dog podcast, Heather Lahtinen is taking over the mic for our 2nd episode of ‘The Offline Photographer’. This series is all about getting you out from behind your computer and actually INTO your market so that you can meet an connect with marketing partners and/or potential clients. This is the tried and true way to market and grow your business. In today’s episode, we’re talking with Laura Wombwell, who shares her experience in building a valuable partnership with a local veterinary clinic. You’ll discover a deeper understanding of the importance of in-person engagement and learn strategies to cultivate relationships that can significantly benefit your photography businesses. WHAT TO LISTEN FOR: Developing Local PartnershipsSetting Clear Goals and ExpectationsThe Value of Personal ConnectionStrategies for Effective CommunicationBalancing Professionalism and Personal Touch This episode is all about the practical aspects of growing a photography business by nurturing local connections. This episode is a must-listen for photographers looking to expand their reach and impact in their communities. Enjoying this conversation? This is the type of coaching that happens inside of Elevate - the place to be if you want to grow your photography business. Discover Elevate here. Connect with Heather WebsiteFacebookInstagram JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

225 - In this episode, Nicole Begley shares her insights on what she would do if she were starting her photography business from scratch in 2024. We start with the importance of finding your niche, specifically identifying what you love about that niche and your products. Then, the second (often overlooked) step is dialing in your messaging and creating a compelling website, which are crucial steps for attracting your target clients. Of course, we also touch on utilizing SEO and blogging to improve your online visibility. Building a community, growing an email list, and getting people in front of your lens all create major marketing momentum. Last but not least, we can't forget what Nicole believes is the most impactful: connecting with local businesses and charities, which often lead to valuable partnerships. WHAT TO LISTEN FOR Previous Related Episodes Content Marketing with Tavia RedbirdMoving to a New Market with Allison ShamrellTimeless Marketing Strategies with Luci DumasWebsite Copy for the Win with Kim WishcamperThe SEO Mistakes Most Photographers Make with Alex VitaWhat You Need to Know to Partner with Rescues with Courtney BrysonZoe Hiljemark - Let’s Get some Press with Zoe Hiljemark JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

224 - Today’s conversation is focusing on marketing our photography businesses, because if there’s one area that frustrates most photographers, it’s the challenges they face in finding new clients. In this episode, I’m joined by my friends Heather Lahtinen, Dorie Howell, and Tavia Redburn to have a candid conversation to help photographers unlock the complexities of growing their business. This isn’t the only way I’ve teamed up with these ladies lately - we’ve also teamed up to offer the 60-Minute Marketing Conference! You’ll hear succinct and impactful presentations from 17 leading photographers in the industry about what’s working RIGHT NOW in business. What to listen for: We’re highlighting the tried and true marketing strategies - but also digging into the new opportunities that exist such as ManyChat and ChatGPT. Take a listen to this episode and then grab your free ticket to the 60-Minute Marketing Conference! Important Links: 60-Minute Marketing ConferenceElevate Connect with our Guests Flourish AcademyBeauty in BirthHarmony HangoutJOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

223 - In this episode of the Hair of the Dog podcast, Nicole and Heather discuss the power of thoughts and how they can shape our lives and businesses. They share their most influential thoughts from 2023 and the thoughts they plan to carry into 2024. By changing our thoughts, we can change our outcomes. Nicole and Heather introduce a model that shows how thoughts lead to feelings, actions, and results. They give examples of how certain thoughts can limit us, while changing our thoughts can lead to success and personal growth. Both hosts stress the importance of choosing thoughts that serve us and align with our goals. They introduce the concept of "letting it be easy," which involves simplifying tasks, delegating responsibilities, and relinquishing control. By adopting this mindset, individuals can experience greater ease and flow in their lives and businesses. Nicole and Heather encourage listeners to explore different thoughts and see which ones resonate with them. They also share thoughts from Elevate members, including ideas about attracting clients, expanding capacity, and embracing simplicity. What to listen for: Ready to Elevate? www.hairofthedogacademy.com/elevate Connect with our guests on Instagram! Heather Lahtinen on IG Monica Adalsteinsson's Pup and Me PhotoJessica Wasik's Bark and Gold PhotographyAmy Hodson's Wander Pet PhotographyDiane Gollowitzer's Dog in Focus PhotographyIna J's Ina J PhotographyJOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

222 - As the year wraps up, it's the perfect time to get your photography business prepped and polished for the new year! Join me, Nicole Begley, as I dive into the essential year-end action items to help you put a bow on 2023 and prepare for success in 2024! What to listen for: I love the year end - and especially the new year. It feels so expansive and full of possibility. Especially when you approach it with intention. So, grab a cup of your favorite holiday beverage, and let's see what we can make possible for 2024! IMPORTANT LINKS BEST OF 2023Save $200 off your first month in Elevate use the code BF23JOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.

221 - Get ready to dive deep into a world where confidence reigns supreme! Join Nicole Begley and Heather Lahtinen as they uncover the secret sauce to building unshakeable confidence in your photography biz. This isn’t just any chat – it’s a journey through the ups and downs of self-trust, topped off with a surprising twist about... chocolate muffins? What To Listen For: This episode is a must for any photographer looking to boost their confidence and take their business to new heights. Remember, it's all about trusting yourself! Resources From This Episode: Hair of the Dog Academy Elevate Coaching ProgramJOIN THE PARTY: Instagramhereeffective pricing and sales strategiesElevate helps you do just thatCheck out our recommended gear and favorite books.