Photographers are busy people, and we sometimes let things slide that we shouldn’t. Namely, I’m talking about our photography websites. If I’m honest, I haven’t updated mine as much as I should and I bet you haven’t either. Websites are usually our primary marketing tools to find clients, so we can’t neglect them any longer. Here’s your reminder to dust off your website, start posting on your blog, and focusing on SEO. If you do it, I’ll do it, too!

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing KP and Jessie, the duo behind Inkpot Creative, a Showit website design studio. KP and Jessie share whether or not blogging is still worth it, the common blogging mistakes they see photographers make, and actionable tips for website conversions. You’ll definitely want to take notes on this episode.

What’s in this episode:

[02:00] Why photographers should consider making the switch from WordPress or other sites to a Showit website, plus how KP and Jessie met and started their business

[08:22] Whether or not blogging is still worth it, and the common blogging mistakes they see photographers make

[18:57] Five actionable tips on website conversions for photographers

[22:55] KP and Jessie share their thoughts on pricing, pop ups, and why photographers should let their personalities shine through on their websites

[32:21] Why SEO is crucial for photographers, and how to get started with it

Tune in to this episode for inspiration to get started with SEO and blogging on your photography website.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: 
https://themilkyway.ca/crafting-web-magic-for-your-photography-business-with-kp-and-jessie-from-inkpot-creative/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say.

If you’re a photographer, you’re probably an education junkie, just like me. We sign up for courses, we watch tutorials, we follow other creators on Instagram. But the problem is we consume all this information and we don’t do anything with it. Even worse, we allow it to create doubt in our minds about our skills and talents. It’s something we need to stop (and I’m telling this to myself, too!).

In today’s solo episode, I’m sharing what active creation means, the reasons why we should actively use education as a catalyst for our creative goals, and some actionable steps you can take to embrace creative action in your own business as a photographer.

What’s in this episode:

[02:04] What active creation actually means and why it’s important to all photographers and creatives

[03:46] Why education should go beyond being just a source of entertainment 

[06:36] The reasons why actively using education as a catalyst for our creative goals is essential for our growth and fulfillment

[08:19] Some actionable steps you can take to embrace active creation

Tune in to this episode for how you can embrace creative action as a photographer.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/creating-or-consuming-education-as-more-than-entertainment-taking-intentional-action-towards-your-creative-goals/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

When it comes to business, we all find ourselves in sticky situations sometimes. It’s just a part of running such human focused businesses. But what’s the best way to handle some of these tough client experiences?

Well, in today’s episode, Kayleigh Ashworth, renowned newborn and maternity photographer, shares some of her trickiest client situations and how she handled them with grace and flexibility, while not compromising her own business. She also lays out the way she thinks about pricing and profitability and why the customer experience is so important. This episode is packed full of heartfelt advice you won’t want to miss.

What’s in this episode:

[02:59] Kayleigh’s journey into photography and how motherhood influenced the niche she eventually chose for herself

[09:23] What you need to consider before branching out and paying for a separate studio space 

[16:03] The pricing and profit structure Kayleigh uses to give her clients an amazing experience AND set aside for yourself too

[22:40] Why it’s so important to offer quality physical products and price them for profitability with confidence

[28:22] How to deal with difficulty in business and managing tough clients with grace (including when wives and husbands disagree)

[42:50] Why should only be discerning about the business advice your consume and who you take advice from

If you’re looking for some incredible advice on how to improve your client experience, this is one episode you can’t miss!

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/the-art-of-elegance-elevating-your-photography-business-through-an-amazing-client-experience-with-kayleigh-ashworth/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

Are you an aspiring maternity photographer? Curious to learn everything that’s involved in this unique and multi-faceted photography niche? Then you’ve come to the right place! Maternity photography is so special in that it requires all the skills of a photographer plus even more care and attention to make your clients feel at ease and look their best.

In today’s episode, I’m discussing this exact topic with professional maternity photographer, Karli Braaten of Studio Evergreen. Karli knows better than anyone what it takes to make women feel comfortable in their skin, how to direct their poses with confidence, and other strategies for creating stunning images (hint: when it comes to dresses and props, sometimes less is more)! 

Plus, Karli and I cover common challenges and struggles of every photographer in this rewarding, and sometimes, demanding profession. If maternity photography has ever piqued your interest, then listen in to hear all of Karli’s strategies for success!

What’s in this episode:

[04:26] How you can make your clients feel comfortable as a maternity photographer

[11:54] Why it’s important to direct your clients’ poses and strategies to help you do it

[17:06] Balancing efficient client management with room to be creative and versatile

[24:38] Communicating clear expectations and healthy boundaries with your brand

[28:18] Establishing and sticking to a budget as a new or seasoned photographer

[38:27] Prioritizing self-care and wellbeing to avoid burnout in a demanding profession

Tune in to this episode for how you can be successful as a maternity photographer.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website:
https://themilkyway.ca/making-maternity-magic-empowering-women-staying-profitable-and-nurturing-creativity-in-photography-with-karli-braaten/ 

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say.

As I reflect back on the past 14 years in the world of photography and business, I'm honestly filled with so much gratitude for the lessons, the memories, the relationships, and the beautiful art that I've had the opportunity to create. It’s been a journey filled with ups and downs, but I’ve learned so much along the way. I want to pass on some of my wisdom to you, dear friends, in the hopes that these lessons will bolster you in business and in life. 

In today’s episode, I’m flying solo and sharing with you 6 simple truths I’ve learned in my photography and business career. I not only give you these truths, but some tips to put them into action in your own lives as well. Whether you’ve just embarked on your path to photography, or you’re in the thick of it, these truths will help you to remember what’s at the core of our art and creativity.

What’s in this episode:

[01:16] Truth #1: Trust your gut.

[04:30] Truth #2: Lead a heart-centered business.

[08:13] Truth #3: Don’t chase someone else’s definition of success.

[10:43] Truth #4: Don’t be afraid to pivot.

[12:43] Truth #5: Under-promise and over-deliver.

[14:05] Truth #6: Consistency is king.

Tune in to this episode for 6 valuable lessons you can use in your own photography business.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/guiding-stars-6-truths-from-14-years-in-business-photography-with-lisa-digeso/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say.

Digital photos are great in terms of portability and immediacy. But tangible photos that you can hold in your hand have so much more meaning. Think about the difference between a forgotten USB stick languishing in a drawer somewhere and a photo album filled with photos that you can touch. It’s a whole different vibe, isn’t it?

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Ambreia Turner, an award winning maternity and motherhood portrait photographer in the Washington, D.C. area. Ambreia shares why she chose the in person sales (IPS) model for her photography business, the value of tangible photos over digital ones, and her advice on setting and maintaining business boundaries in order to find true work/life balance.

What’s in this episode:

[05:21] How Ambreia got into motherhood and maternity photography and found her niche

[07:30] Why you should not only be creating incredible images, but you should also be creating an amazing photo experience for your clients

[09:50] Why Ambreia chose the in person sales (IPS) model for her business, plus the value of tangible photos over digital ones

[17:12] Ambreia’s advice on maintaining business boundaries and finding balance as a mother and business owner

[22:59] How to overcome client hesitation during the IPS meeting and makes sales easier

[26:51] How photographers can discover their zone of genius to create a life they’re excited about

Tune in to this episode for a reminder to have tangible photos printed out as keepsakes.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/prints-with-purpose-crafting-a-luxury-studio-a-conversation-with-photographer-ambreia-turner/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say.

As creatives, we spend too much time focusing on “should”. We tell ourselves, “This is the way my photos should look, and this is the way my business should run,” etc. But what if we moved past what should be and just focused on what is? Finding your true, authentic voice as a photographer takes time, but it’s worth it to find out what your passions are and what you love doing most. And that free expression of creativity will come through so beautifully in your photos.

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Amy Dangerfield, a documentary, lifestyle, and commercial photographer for newborns and families. Amy shares why she fell in love with documentary photography, her different approaches to lifestyle vs. documentary photos, and her advice on how photographers can find their authentic voice. Remember that real life is messy AND beautiful.

What’s in this episode:

[04:27] Amy explains the significance of documentary photography and why she fell in love with it, and how it differs from lifestyle photography

[06:41] How personality comes into play when creating your work, and how Amy’s photography and business changed after returning from China

[15:39] Amy’s approach to newborn and family photography in documentary style and lifestyle photos

[19:11] Tips for dealing with unknown lighting situations for photos, especially on location shoots

[23:24] How Amy prepares parents for documentary newborn sessions, and how her approach changes when documenting older children

[28:17] How Amy chose her mission behind her photography, plus her advice for new photographers struggling to find their authentic voice

Tune in to this episode to find your true, artistic voice as a photographer.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: 
https://themilkyway.ca/the-honest-lens-capturing-the-beauty-of-the-everyday-with-documentary-photographer-amy-dangerfield/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

Capturing photos and photo editing is second nature to us as photographers. Creating family films and doing video editing, however, can feel very overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be! Just like anything else in life, start small, learn the basics, and give it a try. I bet you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the results.

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Dorte Kjaerulff, a family photographer and filmmaker. Dorte shares how you can get started with video without getting overwhelmed, why you need B-roll footage, and how to select music for your family films.

What’s in this episode:

[08:46] How to get started with film (and not be overwhelmed!)

[15:34] How to move past the feeling of “not good enough” when it comes to family films

[20:36] The importance of capturing B-roll footage

[23:37] How to select the right music for your films (and stay legal!)

[31:02] The best piece of business advice Dorte has received

Tune in to this episode for tips on how to try family films without getting overwhelmed.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/storytelling-films-incorporating-family-legacy-video-in-your-photography-business-with-dorte-kjaerulff/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

Being a photographer, or any other kind of creative business owner, can be stressful. Deadlines, budgets, clients, imposter syndrome - all of these things can cause us to become dysregulated and mentally frazzled. But finding the calm in the chaos of entrepreneurial life is possible, my friends. You deserve a calm, successful business without the overwhelm. 

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Renee Bowen, a photographer and coach who specializes in NLP (Neuro-linguistic programming). Renee shares why it’s important to cultivate a calm nervous system as a business owner, how to find work/life balance without getting overwhelmed, and strategies for achieving your business goals while still feeling calm and fulfilled. Let’s try to reduce the stress and increase your overall sense of wellbeing.

What’s in this episode:

[01:12] How Renee became interested in NLP, neuroencoding, and hypnosis, plus what exactly these modalities are

[10:37] Why it's so important to cultivate a calm nervous system in order to run a smooth business, and how to get off autopilot in your business

[20:00] How to find work/life balance without feeling overwhelmed

[25:11] Renee shares some strategies for achieving your business goals while still having a sense of calm and fulfillment in your life

[31:24] The creative blocks that photographers can fall into

[40:25] Renee shares helpful resources to achieve calm and successful businesses

Tune in to this episode for how you can find calm amidst the chaos in your photography business.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/finding-focus-amid-the-chaos-the-importance-of-nervous-system-regulation-and-self-care-for-photographers-with-renee-bowen/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

Contracts can seem scary. The language might feel complex or overwhelming. But you truly do need them for your photography business. You have to protect yourself and your business and having contracts in place help you do just that. This is your nudge to get legal, my friends. 

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Paige Griffith, founder of The Legal Paige, a virtual legal educational platform for small businesses. Paige and I discuss contracts, model releases, trademark infringement, privacy laws, and negative reviews. We’re diving deep into it all to encourage you to cover yourselves legally.

What’s in this episode:

[02:07] Paige shares how her love of photography led to finding her niche in entrepreneurship and law

[05:54] Why it’s important for photographers to have legit, professional contracts for their business, plus how often you should be updating your contracts

[11:56] Contracts can feel intimidating or too complex, but they don’t have to be 

[15:04] Some examples of when you would need a model release document signed, and why you shouldn’t use copyrighted/trademarked characters, themes, and music in your work

[32:31] What photographers should know about data protection and privacy laws when handling their client's information, plus what photographers need to know about the legal issues surrounding negative reviews

Tune in to this episode for why you need to have professionally written contracts for your photography business.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/the-fine-print-legal-tips-every-photographer-should-know-with-paige-griffith-from-the-legal-paige/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

Picture this scene: You’re shooting a children’s photo session and the kids are crying, their parents are frazzled, and no one is having a good time, especially not you. Maybe you’ve experienced this yourself, or you’ve at least heard horror stories about this happening. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are strategies you can use to make it a more playful and fun photo session. Happy kiddos equal happy photos, after all. 

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Melissa Miller, a children and family photographer and educator. She shares why children-led photo sessions that incorporate play lead to better photos, why the pre-session questionnaire for kids is so important, and some tips for photographing shy or reserved children.

What’s in this episode:

[02:15] Melissa’s approach to children-led, playful photo sessions, and the importance of a pre-session questionnaire 

[03:47] Her advice for photographers who might not naturally connect with children

[05:52] Melissa’s suggestions for a particularly tough session with kids who are upset or don’t want to be photographed

[09:16] What to do when you’re photographing children who are shy or introverted

[10:05] How honoring your child’s wishes of not wanting their photo posted online is important

[20:03] Something Melissa wishes every photographer knew about themselves

Tune in to this episode for tips on children-led, playful photo sessions that don’t end in tears.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/lets-play-advice-for-fun-playful-child-led-photo-sessions-with-melissa-miller

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say.

It can be hard to realize that none of us are perfect. We get tired, we make mistakes, or we take on too many projects. But what we need to remember is that done is better than perfect. Spending 10 hours editing one photo serves no one. And honestly, our clients don’t expect perfection from us, they just want photos that capture their soul. That’s something we can definitely deliver!

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Megan Boggs, founder of Hello Storyteller and a lifestyle and documentary photographer. She shares how we can break free from perfectionism, how to find balance as a photographer, and how an inquisitive mind is key in developing your photography skills.

What’s in this episode:

[02:26] An introduction to Megan and how her background as a private investigator with an inquisitive mind translated into becoming a photographer

[06:42] How Megan balances being a full-time photographer and running her photography education platform, Hello Storyteller

[12:08] Megan’s advice for anyone who is trying to figure out who they are as a photographer

[15:15] How to deal with your children getting older and being less willing to have their photos taken or published on social media

[21:15] The best business advice Megan has ever received

Tune in to this episode for how to break free from perfectionism in your photography.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/let-it-go-how-to-stop-perfectionism-from-holding-you-back-as-a-photographer-with-megan-boggs/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

Humans in general have a lot of limiting beliefs, but as photographers, so many doubts come into play. We’re unsure about our art, we doubt our value, we undercharge and overwork ourselves. It’s not healthy and it needs to change.

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Bobbi Barbarich, a documentary wedding and family photographer. She shares how to find your voice as a photographer, what to do when you feel stuck, and how to uncover what’s holding you back in your photography. 

What’s in this episode:

[02:59] Bobbi shares why she’s so passionate about documentary photography and how she found her voice as a photographer

[12:49] How Bobbi found herself in photography coaching and her advice on what to do if you’re feeling stuck as a photographer

[23:09] Bobbi explains what shoot shadowing is and why it’s so important to growth

[30:28] How to uncover what’s really holding you back as a photographer, and why there’s a limiting belief behind raising your rates 

[39:20] How to stop self-sabotaging behaviors like procrastination

Tune in to this episode for how to find your voice as a photographer and get unstuck.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/the-fearless-photographer-your-art-your-way-with-bobbi-barbarich/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

Money is a topic that so many creatives try to ignore. We want to focus on the art, we tell ourselves. But not knowing what your expenses are, not having a budget, and not being able to pay yourself are all big problems when it comes to owning a business. Your time is worth money. 

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing the ladies from The Motherhood Anthology (TMA): Jenny Cruger, Allison Craig, and Kim Fox. They share why TMA came to be, why you should create a brand that aligns with you and your values, and most importantly, why it’s imperative that you run your numbers and know the costs of doing business.

What’s in this episode:

[02:24] How The Motherhood Anthology came to be

[08:14] How to create a business brand that aligns with who you are

[11:54] Why it’s so imperative to know your costs of doing business and how to run your numbers

[19:54] How to incorporate paying yourself into your budget and pricing, and how to change the mindset that clients won’t pay what you charge

[27:55] The best business advice that Jenny, Allison, and Kim have received

Tune in to this episode for advice on why you need to know your numbers and the costs of doing business as a photographer.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/profit-purpose-planning-for-success-in-your-photography-business-with-the-motherhood-anthology/

Get access to our 2023 Family Retreat! Don't miss the chance to learn from 24 instructors to take your family sessions (and confidence!) to the next level: https://themilkyway.ca/2023-family-retreat/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

Creative people aren’t good at numbers. At least, that’s what we tell ourselves, and often it can lead to big financial problems in our businesses. Unfortunately, you can’t put your head in the sand and ignore your spending and expect to have a successful business. 

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Daniel Moyer, a photographer, podcaster, and photography business educator, who shares the money mindset pitfalls that many of us experience, how to shift into a healthy money mindset, and how to change your relationship with money. He reminds us that we actually do have to track where our money is going to have a successful business.

What’s in this episode:

[02:15] How to embrace being an empath, turn it into a superpower, and cultivate empathy in our children

[10:35] The common money mindset pitfalls that David encounters with photographers and how to shift those mindsets

[21:06] How photographers can change their relationship with money and plan for success in their businesses

[33:58] We talk a little shop about our favorite cameras and lenses

[40:49] The best piece of business advice David has ever received

Tune in to this episode for tips on how to shift your money mindset and plan for financial success in your photography business.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/recalibrate-your-money-mindset-empowering-insights-from-photography-business-coach-dan-moyer/

Get access to our 2023 Family Retreat! Don't miss the chance to learn from 24 instructors to take your family sessions (and confidence!) to the next level: https://themilkyway.ca/2023-family-retreat/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

I don’t know if there are three letters more intimidating to photographers than SEO, but it’s something we all need to educate ourselves about. Photography businesses often rely on Google searches, among other things, to bring in clients, so don’t bury your head in the sand when it comes to SEO.

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Melissa Arlena, an SEO educator and coach for photographers, who shares what SEO actually is, why it’s important for photographers, and tips for optimizing your website for Google rankings. 

What’s in this episode:

[03:03] What SEO actually is, why it’s important for photographers, and Melissa’s advice to make it more user-friendly

[05:17] Where to begin with SEO as a newbie, and the biggest mistakes photographers are making with SEO

[12:22] How blogging has changed in recent years, and how to get started with a new blog today

[20:07] Tips for making your website SEO-friendly

[27:17] The metrics photographers should track to measure the success of their SEO efforts

Tune in to this episode for tips on how to optimize your website for SEO and improve your Google search rankings.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/focus-on-visibility-unlocking-seo-strategies-for-photographers-with-melissa-arlena/

Get access to our 2023 Family Retreat! Don't miss the chance to learn from 24 instructors to take your family sessions (and confidence!) to the next level: https://themilkyway.ca/2023-family-retreat/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

Pricing your business is about the numbers, sure, but it’s also about your emotions. Self-worth, imposter syndrome, uncertainty - all of those things can play a part when deciding on your pricing structure for your photography business. But what if there was a simple way to align your pricing?

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Fiona Margo, an adventurous motherhood and newborn photographer in the Seattle area, who shares how she uses resentment to measure her pricing packages (yes, you read that right!), how to create a marketing plan that works, and whether or not Instagram is still a viable marketing tool.   

What’s in this episode:

[03:47] Fiona is very specific about pricing and location on her website so that clients know exactly what they’re getting when they book a photo session

[08:44] Fiona’s advice on creating a marketing plan, how to tweak it when you’re not getting the results you wanted, and if Instagram is still worth the effort for creators

[12:46] How to get more involved in your community and boost your visibility as a local business

[14:02] How Fiona’s photography business works and how she makes it profitable (and the answer might surprise you!)

[18:15] Some advice for when you’re not getting inquiries or not serving your ideal clients and feeling stuck in your business, plus tips on pricing your business

[31:50] Fiona shares her best practices of building an email list

Tune in to this episode for tips on pricing and marketing your photography business.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/turning-frustration-into-fuel-harnessing-change-and-growth-in-your-photography-business-with-fiona-margo/

Get access to our 2023 Family Retreat! Don't miss the chance to learn from 24 instructors to take your family sessions (and confidence!) to the next level: https://themilkyway.ca/2023-family-retreat/

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

Every single one of us has faced limiting beliefs at some point in our lives. We’ve let other people dictate our worth and our success and it’s not healthy or sustaining. Instead, we have to remember the value we bring to the table and believe in ourselves. 

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Mollie Sommer, a certified Core Energy Coach who teaches manifestation, empowerment, and self-love. Mollie shares how to live from the heart, manifest the life you want, and let go of limiting beliefs.  

What’s in this episode:

[03:21] For anyone who is overworked and exhausted, Mollie gives her advice on how to move through it and value yourself

[08:41] How to live from your heart and not from your head

[12:49] Scarcity and abundance mindset and how that can show up in photographers’ lives, and how to manifest more of what you want in life

[21:29] Mollie explains what the Law of Being is, how it works, and why you should let go of limiting beliefs

[28:16] How to stop tying your self-worth to how much someone is willing to pay you

[33:51] What goddess baths are and why you need them in your life (Mollie created an awesome freebie for you on this!)

[39:25] Mollie’s advice for someone just starting out as an entrepreneur

Tune in to this episode if you want to live from your heart and not your head - in life and in business.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/manifesting-magic-cultivating-a-heart-led-business-as-a-photographer-a-creative-with-mollie-sommer/

Get ready access to our 2023 Family Retreat! Don't miss the chance to learn from 24 instructors to take your family sessions (and confidence!) to the next level: https://themilkyway.ca/2023-family-retreat/

Don’t forget to leave us a review if you loved this episode! We appreciate you and your time, beautiful friends!

If you’ve ever been intimidated by ad strategies for your business, you’re not alone. Click through, conversion rate, ad copy, lead generation, boosted ads - it’s enough to make your head spin if you aren’t sure what you’re doing or what it all means. It really doesn’t have to be so scary, though.

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Ashleigh Taylor, an award winning portrait photographer and photography educator and speaker. Ashleigh shares what she’s learned about using ads to grow her business, why you need to diversify your ad strategy, and how to know if your ads are working. 

What’s in this episode:

[03:18] How to build confidence as a creative and ask for what you’re worth

[09:50] Why photographers should diversify their ad strategy to include things like Google ads and not rely solely on social media

[17:26] How to know if you can afford ads and why most people don’t understand how ads really work

[25:46] How to know if your ads are really working for your business or not and how to improve your conversion rates

[30:13] Why we should be transparent about pricing and value

[39:08] How to attract the dreamy clients that you’re excited to serve

Tune in to this episode for how to diversify your marketing and ad strategy as a photographer.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/capturing-clicks-navigating-advertising-strategies-for-photographers-with-ashleigh-taylor/

Get ready access to our 2023 Family Retreat! Don't miss the chance to learn from 24 instructors to take your family sessions (and confidence!) to the next level: https://themilkyway.ca/2023-family-retreat/

Don’t forget to leave us a review if you loved this episode! We appreciate you and your time, beautiful friends!

As photographers, I bet many of us have experienced flat, uninteresting photos when we haven’t felt a connection with our clients, especially when we started out. That emotional connection is the magic sauce that makes your photos shine.  

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Denise Birdsong, an award-winning wedding portrait and boudoir photographer from the San Francisco Bay Area, who is a pioneer of emotive photography. Denise shares her advice for how to infuse your photos with real emotion, how to build trust and connection with your clients, and how photography itself is changing because of a greater emphasis on emotions.

What’s in this episode:

[02:48] What Denise is passionate about in photography and how her grandmother helped her find her voice as an artist

[11:08] The challenges Denise has faced as an artist, namely, being called an artist in the first place

[17:03] Denise is the master of infusing emotion into her work and she gives some advice for anyone who is drawn to it but might be scared to start 

[24:00] Why trust is so incredibly important when it comes to creating connections with your clients

[28:51] Why there’s a renaissance of emotion in photos currently and how photography is evolving because of it

[31:34] The legacy that Denise’s mom has left on her creative work

Tune in to this episode for how to infuse emotion and connection into your next photo session.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/the-art-of-connection-infusing-emotion-and-body-language-in-photography-with-denise-birdsong/

Get ready access to our 2023 Family Retreat! Don't miss the chance to learn from 24 instructors to take your family sessions (and confidence!) to the next level: https://themilkyway.ca/2023-family-retreat/

Don’t forget to leave us a review if you loved this episode! We appreciate you and your time, beautiful friends!

Senior portrait photography might seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Just like any other genre of photography, you’ve got to make your clients feel comfortable in order to make your photos shine. 

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Leslie Kerrigan, a senior portrait photographer from South Carolina. Leslie shares advice on how to start working with teens, how to bring out her clients’ personality during a shoot, and innovative ways to market teen photography and get your name out there. 

What’s in this episode:

[05:06] Why Leslie decided to focus on senior photography and her advice for those who are intimidated to start working with teens

[09:24] How Leslie handles posing female teens in a way that doesn’t appear too sexy, and her thoughts on teens using filters on their photos 

[13:38] Leslie’s process on how to extract a client’s personality during a shoot, especially when they are shy

[18:05] Leslie’s tips on how to enforce boundaries and provide clarity to ensure that a senior photo shoot doesn’t become an entire family reunion photo shoot

[23:30] Innovative ways to market for teen photography and get your name out there, including using a spokesmodel team

Tune in to this episode for how to incorporate senior photo shoots into your photography services.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/senior-portrait-the-art-of-photographing-high-school-seniors-with-leslie-kerrigan/

Get ready access to our 2023 Family Retreat! Don't miss the chance to learn from 24 instructors to take your family sessions (and confidence!) to the next level: https://themilkyway.ca/2023-family-retreat/

Don’t forget to leave us a review if you loved this episode! We appreciate you and your time, beautiful friends!

Having relaxed, comfortable clients is important for any photo session. It’s even more important when it comes to intimate connection photography. We want to alleviate any fears and stiffness our clients feel, and instead capture the genuine emotion and love.

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Sarah Havens, an intimate connection photographer from southwest Germany. Sarah shares what it was like moving her business overseas, how to relax her clients before their intimate photo sessions, and why discussing boundaries beforehand is an absolute must.

And if you want to hear more from Sarah and how she's highlighting the intimate connections in her photography sessions, she'll be teaching at our online 2023 Family Retreat! (Grab your spot now!)

What’s in this episode:

[02:14] An introduction to Sarah, what she’s passionate about, and why she decided to pursue photography

[03:22] What it was like starting her photography in the States and then moving her business back home to Germany

[06:16] What Sarah thinks is the most important quality a photographer can bring to their work

[08:34] Why A.I. should be embraced as a tool in your photography and not as competition

[11:40] Sarah focuses on couples photography and gives her advice on how to relax her subjects so they don’t appear rigid

[18:11] How Sarah approaches photographing older couples

[19:46] Why it’s important to encourage your clients to discuss beforehand how intimate they want their photos to be

[23:51] Sarah shares her favorite prompts to use during photo sessions

[25:15] How Sarah handles uncooperative children during a session

Tune in to this episode for how to convey emotion and intimacy in your next photo session.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/artful-storytelling-for-the-wild-souls-creating-heartfelt-photography-with-sarah-havens/

Get ready access to our 2023 Family Retreat! Don't miss the chance to learn from 24 instructors to take your family sessions (and confidence!) to the next level: https://themilkyway.ca/2023-family-retreat/

Don’t forget to leave us a review if you loved this episode! We appreciate you and your time, beautiful friends!

As photographers and business owners, the struggle to stay motivated and push our creativity is real. It can feel like everything has already been done before - poses, props, locations, etc. But what if we could examine that struggle from a new lens? 

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Karina Beck, a storytelling photographer from the Seattle area. Karina shares her advice for military spouses and others who’ve had to move around and restart their businesses, what intentional storytelling means to her, and how she’s been able to find inspiration by reframing creativity into problem-solving.

What’s in this episode:

[06:29] As a military spouse, Karina shares her advice for those who have to restart their business in different locations

[15:38] Karina is an intentional storyteller and she shares what that means to her

[21:09] How Karina stays inspired to develop her skills as a photographer and how she has reframed creativity with problem-solving

[25:20] How she stays organized and manages her time as a photographer

[35:59] The best piece of business advice Karina has ever been given

Tune in to this episode for how to build community connections and market your business offline. 

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/the-art-of-community-local-marketing-strategies-for-photographers-a-conversation-with-karina-beck

And if you want to hear more from Karina and how she's problem-solving in her photography business, she'll be teaching at our online 2023 Family Retreat! (Grab your spot now!)

Want to put an end to awkward moments in your photo sessions and create genuine connection? Download The Storyteller’s Toolkit today, featuring 200+ emotive photography prompts, so you’re never left wondering what to say. 

Have you ever wanted to improve your photography business and learn from other experienced photographers? There’s a lot of information out there to sift through and it can be overwhelming, I get it. But what if we could compile our best, most effective tips in one place? Intrigued? Get ready for the Business Tip Road Trip!

Today’s episode is a bit different from what you would normally hear on the Art and Soul Show, but I know it’s one that will be so valuable. It’s a collaborative episode featuring 7 expert photography business owners (yours truly included!) who are offering tips and advice on how to improve and streamline your own business. Make sure to bookmark this episode and return to it again and again as you implement these strategies. 

What’s in this episode:
[02:06] Sabrina Gebhardt (Shoot it Straight) kicks things off with a really important topic that many of us ignore: how to define success for ourselves (instead of letting others define it for us).
[10:13] Andrew Hellmich (Photo Biz X) shares a clever tip for how to use video content to give your SEO a mega boost!
[22:58] Colie James (Business First Creatives) shares tips for booking more clients with a simple (yet wildly effective!) two-step process.
[32:24] Daniel Moyer (Focused Photographers) talks about the ups and downs of finances as a service-based entrepreneur and shares a great tool for getting your finances in order.
[44:06] Lisa DiGeso (The Milky Way) talks about strategies for managing your time and creating the work/life balance that you've always wanted.
[56:02] Natalie Jennings (Photo Business Help) pulls back the curtain on tips & tricks to use Pic-Time that will improve your workflow and knock your client's socks off.
[59:36] And finally, Annemie Tonken (This Can't Be That Hard) shares the brilliance of using a "Back Pocket Offer" to give your revenue a boost this year... even in a slow economy!

Tune in to this episode for new tips to implement in your business from 7 expert photographers.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/business-tip-road-trip-7-photography-experts-offer-heartfelt-advice-to-improve-your-photography-business/

Get ready access to our 2023 Family Retreat! Don't miss the chance to learn from 24 instructors to take your family sessions (and confidence!) to the next level: https://themilkyway.ca/2023-family-retreat/

Don’t forget to leave us a review if you loved this episode! We appreciate you and your time, beautiful friends!

As creatives, we can sometimes let fear overwhelm our art, especially when we worry about what everyone else is (or isn’t!) doing. Like, should we try a new technology? Will we be left behind if we don’t use it? What if we don’t utilize it as well as someone else? But, if you put aside your fear, and allow yourself the freedom to create and play, you’ll see amazing results in your work.  

In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Twyla Jones, a photographer, educator, and founder of Emotional Storytelling. Twyla shares why we should experiment with our creativity, how to embrace A.I. as a helpful tool, and how to create the art you love without fear. 

And if you want to hear more from Twyla and how she's embracing AI as part of her photography business, she'll be teaching at our online 2023 Family Retreat! (Grab your spot now!)

What’s in this episode:

[03:26] Gamification and creating immersive experiences for photography courses and retreats

[08:36] The fear photographers have about A.I. replacing them and why we have nothing to worry about 

[21:00] How we can use ChatGPT to improve our work

[25:29] The generative A.I. feature in the new basic Photoshop download and how it can make our lives easier

[31:18] Why it’s essential for our creativity to take breaks when we’re feeling uninspired and how to redirect our negative thoughts

[41:09] How to create without fear

Tune in to this episode for how to unleash your fearless creativity.

For full show notes, resources, links and to download the transcript, visit our website: https://themilkyway.ca/the-empowered-artist-embracing-ai-in-photography-and-unleashing-creative-freedom-with-twyla-jones/

Get ready access to our 2023 Family Retreat! Don't miss the chance to learn from 24 instructors to take your family sessions (and confidence!) to the next level: https://themilkyway.ca/2023-family-retreat/

Don’t forget to leave us a review if you loved this episode! We appreciate you and your time, beautiful friends!