This Can't Be That Hard: Recent Episodes

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It's August, which means it's probably feels way too early to think about Black Friday, holiday cards, or filling your calendar for Q4... but that's exactly why now is the time to do it!

Every year I watch the same thing happen: photographers coast through summer, and then the second Starbucks rolls out everyone's favorite seasonal latte, panic sets in: empty calendar, no plan, reactive scramble. This month on the podcast, we're running something we're calling the Back to School Marketing Challenge, and this episode is step one: getting organized.

My marketing director Dayna and I get into:

• Why proactive marketing beats reactive marketing, every single time
• The hot, warm, and cold lead system, and why sorting your contacts into these three buckets changes how marketing feels
• How to go on a "lead scavenger hunt" through your DMs, comments, and email to find people you forgot were even interested
• Why and how this up-front organization step will increase the effectiveness of these conversations

If you're in the Consistency Club, this sets you up for our marketing summit on September 1st, where we turn all of this into an actual plan. If you're not, you're still going to walk away from this one with a spreadsheet and a plan for filling it.

LINKS:

• Learn more about Consistency Club

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Here's a pattern I've noticed: photographers spend months chasing a version of growth that sounds right, but never actually sits right. Typically this is because they've heard advice or purchased a course that may be well-intentioned, but doesn't really align with their unique circumstances or goals. Before they know it, they've spent their valuable time, money, and energy heading in the wrong direction, and now have to spend more of each of those things to get themselves back on track.

I'm wrapping up our Beyond the Bottleneck series this week, and although this episode may sound a bit like a contradiction to our other episodes, I meant it more as a reminder:

Being organized is important.
Building systems is crucial.
Bringing in help is a big step on the road to growth.
But all of it requires a clear sense of direction.

In this episode, I'm sharing:

• The three questions I'd ask any photographer before they start optimizing
• A breakdown of when outsourcing actually makes financial sense
• Why the math can work perfectly and still not be the right answer

Growth is a strategy, not a goal. This episode is about making sure you're growing in the right direction.

LINKS:

• Grab Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell
• Get The Photographer's Business Plan Glow Up

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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You can streamline and automate every last thing in your business, but there are still only so many clients you can take on because there's only one of you... unless you build an associate team.

This week, I'm sharing my conversation with Ali Leigh, a Minneapolis-based wedding photographer who has been running an associate team for almost a decade. Ali was an open book, sharing the actual nuts and bolts:

• How and why she got started with associates (mostly by accident)
• How she finds and vets associates that represent her brand well
• How she pays them and handles the legal stuff
• How she talks to clients about the fact that she won't be behind the camera
• The honest trade-offs - especially the editing workload
• Who this model is and isn't right for

This is a practical, no-hype conversation from someone who has been doing this for nearly a decade. If you've ever thought "I wish I could book more, but there's only one of me" - or the flip side, "I'd love to shoot less but I can't afford to earn less" - this episode is for you.

LINKS:

• Find Ali at https://alileigh.com/
• On Instagram at @alileighco.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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My dad had a "system" for organizing his office. You could ask him for anything - any book or file or piece of paper - and he'd be able to locate it in 30 seconds. The problem? No one else had any idea what his system was, and if he wasn't available, nothing could be located.

Maybe your office is super organized, maybe your desktop is as clean as the day you got your computer, but I'd be willing to bet that somewhere in your business, there are "systems" that only you have the keys to.

Colie James is back on the show, and today we're getting into the practical side of what it actually means to get your business systems ready out of your head and into a format that you can hand off - to a person, a tool, or AI.

Here's what we're getting into:

• Why "getting everything out of your head" is the first step
• Colie's "and what happens next?" method for mapping your client process
• The booked-and-busy trap: why the moment you're too busy to build systems is exactly when you need to build them
• How to use feedback forms as a data source - and how to utilize AI to make this easy (and objective)

Colie's story about not outsourcing anything in her business until she went blind is one I keep thinking about. You don't want to be forced into building systems by a crisis. Today's episode makes it easy to get started today without the overwhelm.

LINKS:

• Find Colie at coliejames.com
• Be sure to check out her podcast, Business First Creatives

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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There's an old story about a fisherman who keeps going out every day with holes in his net. Even though he knows the net leaks, he doesn't think he can afford to take the time off from fishing to mend the holes. I've been that fisherman more times than I'd like to admit, and I'd be willing to bet there's a good chance you have been too.

At some point in business, most of us will get in our own way. Of course that bottleneck isn't obvious - instead, it shows up as exhaustion, as the feeling that you're working harder than ever but not getting further ahead, as that sense that success is always just around the next bend... but somehow you never quite arrive.

This month on the podcast, we're digging into how to recognize those bottlenecks in your own business, and covering three strategies to get yourself out of that stuck place: systems, outsourcing, and adding capacity. Today's episode sets the stage for all of it.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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This last episode in our Summer Essentials series dates back to 2021, but don't let its vintage fool you: it's message is as true - and important - now as it was then: most of your clients don't actually know what they want.

Here's what we're chatting about:

• Why you need to replace "give people what they want" with "show them what they need"
• The importance of showing (only) what you want to sell - a rule most photographers break constantly
• The value of connection: what listening, educating, and handling objections actually looks like in a real conversation
• The benefits of being picky - why the clients who still don't want what you offer after you've made your case are not your clients

If you've ever taken on a session you knew wasn't the right fit, or caved on your packages because someone said they "just want digitals," this one is for you.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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This conversation with copywriter and brand strategist Courtney Fanning changed how I think about copywriting. The premise is simple (if a little uncomfortable): we all instinctively write for the type of consumer we are, and if there are four types, that means we're only effectively speaking to maybe 25% of our potential clients.

Courtney shares a framework she adapted from Spanx founder Sara Blakely that breaks buyers into four types: the director, the socializer, the relator, and the thinker. Each one needs something different from your website and your copy in order to feel confident enough to reach out.

Here's what we're getting into:

• What each of the four buyer types is actually looking for when they land on your page
• How to do a copy sweep to catch what's missing - without starting from scratch
• What testimonials, FAQs, marketing receipts, and imagery are actually doing for each buyer type
• Courtney's take on voice (and why it's not the be-all end-all most people think it is)

LINKS:

• Take Courtney's quiz to find out what your buyer type is.
• Find Courtney at bigpicturecopywriting.com and on Instagram and Pinterest

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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There's this cookbook my mom had when I was growing up called More With Less. The whole premise was: here are big, satisfying meals made with humble ingredients. It was on her shelf my entire childhood, and honestly... it's basically how I think about business strategy too.

This episode is one of our most popular ever, and I'm re-sharing it as part of our Summer Essentials series because right now - in this slower-before-it-gets-busier stretch - is a great time to re-engage your most valuable marketing asset: your past clients.

In this episode, I’m sharing four simple, relationship-focused ways to bring people back in, get them talking about you, and build more consistency and sustainability into your schedule and revenue.

We’ll cover:

• How to re-engage past clients with new or expanded offers
• A smart way to use client stories and testimonials that builds trust and drives bookings
• What it looks like to partner with clients to grow your network
• The membership model that keeps your best clients coming back, year after year

LINKS:

• If you want to go deeper on the membership piece, check out my course Revenue on Repeat

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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This month, we're taking a little break from new episodes and digging into our (big) archive to reshare some of our past faves. Today's replay originally aired in 2022, but if anything, it feels MORE relevant now than it did then: how do you keep showing up and promoting your business when the news is heavy. How do you send out a sales email or post about your upcoming mini sessions when those things seem trivial at best compared to what's happening in the world?

Here's what I'm covering:

• Why remembering your "why" isn't just a motivational exercise - it's the actual calculus that makes continuing to show up make sense when it doesn't feel right
• The permission structure most photographers need to hear - both to take a beat when you need one, AND to come back, even if things still don't feel "normal"
• Why consistency is the thing that earns you the right to keep marketing even when timing feels off
• How to acknowledge the elephant in the room without making it the only subject of conversation

Balancing the need to book work with our genuine sensitivity can be tricky... no one wants to be an insensitive jerk, but we all have bills to pay, too. Today’s episode gives you a strategy for how to stick to your marketing plan while remaining tactful and tuned in to the bigger picture.

LINKS:

• Looking to make consistent marketing easier? Join the (literal) club!

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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I was talking to a photographer friend who - by every outside measure - is killing it. On the inside, though? She admitted she was struggling with feelings of self-doubt and stress about the future of her business.

I think a lot of us carry around a mental image of some summit - a destination that we will reach where things in our business will finally feel settled and all the hard work will be behind us. But the longer I do this, the more convinced I am that there is no such destination. And in a weird way, I've made peace with that.

In this re-release from last summer (an episode I wanted to bring back because it feels even more relevant right now), I'm sharing three specific signs that you're further along the trail than you realize:

• You've shifted from focusing on more to focusing on better
• You've stopped fighting the slow seasons and started planning for them
• Things that used to eat hours now take minutes

If you're feeling behind or worried that your numbers aren't where they should be, this one's for you. Short, direct, and hopefully a little bit of a relief.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Having concerns about AI isn't a bad thing: it means you're thinking critically about an issue that warrants critical thought. But nor do concerns mean you have to (or should) avoid AI altogether.

The issues surrounding this world-changing technology are big, and I didn't want to gloss over them: What does "authenticity" mean in the AI era? What happens to your brain when you outsource thinking? What is the environmental cost of data centers? Are the companies building these tools considering anything beyond their bottom line?

So in this episode, I'm opening the whole can of worms, diving straight into the complex, nuanced, and evolving conversation. I'm using the AI triangle framework from last week's episode (episode 369) to work through each concern honestly, so if you haven't listened to that yet, start there.

Here's what we're getting into this week:

• The authenticity question: what it actually means to use AI and still have the work be yours
• Brain rot - is it real, and what the CEO/attorney/editor framework actually does to your thinking
• Ethics and tool choice: why not all AI companies are the same, and why that matters more than people realize
• The environmental impact of AI, and what "intentional use" looks like in practice

I'm also sharing the 5-Day Content Challenge we just launched - a free way to test the same AI content system that powers the Consistency Club, with almost no setup required.

Try the 5-Day Content Challenge: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/5dcc

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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I remember the exact moment I first heard about ChatGPT. I was walking my dog, talking to my dad on the phone, and he mentioned this thing he'd heard about on NPR - some AI tool where you could just type any question and get an answer. My reaction? "Huh. Why would I need that when I have Google?"

That was not that long ago. Wild.

Just a couple of short years later, and AI is literally everywhere. But a lot of photographers I talk to are genuinely conflicted about using it - and I think that conflict is worth taking seriously! So in this episode, I'm sharing the framework I personally use to make sure the work I do with AI tools feels aligned with my values.

Here's what I'm covering:

• Why I think of AI the same way I think about switching from auto mode to manual on your camera (and why that analogy actually holds up)
• The three things you need every single time you sit down to work with AI
• Where AI genuinely moves the needle... and where it needs to stay out of the way
• The real gift AI gives you (which probably isn't what you think)

If you've ever gotten AI output that felt like beige content that could have come from anyone, this is for you.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Okay, I'll just say it: I am an Airtable evangelist. I have been for years. It runs my episode archive, my client data, my business dashboard, my production workflows - honestly, it runs a lot of my personal life too. And I know that sounds like something I'm pitching, but I genuinely make zero money on Airtable. I just really, really believe in this tool.

The problem is that what Airtable does can be hard to explain - and that makes a lot of photographers click around in it for a few minutes, get confused, and close the tab forever. That's exactly why I brought Ashley Rose back on the show this week.

Ashley was here in February for a conversation about organizing your business (go back and listen to that one if you missed it). This time, we went deeper on Airtable specifically: what makes it genuinely different from a spreadsheet, how it stacks up against tools like Dubsado or HoneyBook, and the kinds of things photographers are actually building inside it that you might not have imagined yet.

In this episode, we cover:

• The real difference between a spreadsheet and a database - and why it matters for your client experience
• How automations inside Airtable can handle client follow-up, reminders, and team communication without you lifting a finger
• Why Ashley recommends Airtable even for photographers who have zero clients yet
• A conversation about whether you should keep your CRM alongside Airtable (or if you can let one of them go)
• Where to start if the blank canvas feels overwhelming

If you've been curious about Airtable but didn't know where to begin, this one's for you.

LINKS:

• Follow Systems Over Stress by Ashley Rose for practical systems, workflows, and business tips and Ashley's masterclass.
• Explore The Photographer’s Business Dashboard — an all-in-one Airtable system and course designed to help photographers organize leads, projects, finances, and workflows with ease.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Tech tools and software are an easy thing to accumulate. Most of us add tools when we find them, promising ourselves we'll dive in "as soon as we have time. Before long, we've got a giant tech stack that just kind of happened.

In this episode, I'm talking about the costs of "tech debt" - not just the financial expense, but the minutes, hours, even cumulative days that we all spend on workarounds, redos, and tweaks, all the while thinking, "I'm sure I had a tool that was supposed to do that!"

We'll also cover the three layers of your business where tech tends to accumulate, along with a simple, three-question audit to help you see your system clearly.

The goal here isn't a perfect stack... it's just an intentional one, where you've got all the tools you need (and none you don't).

Resources mentioned: Photographer's Business Dashboard

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Ever wonder what it actually looks like to build a profitable photography business on lower prices and higher volume? That's what this conversation with Naomi Boyer is all about.

After a rough year in 2024 where inquiries were down and the business just felt like an uphill battle, Naomi decided to try going all in on something she'd been developing on the side: school and event photography built on a high-volume, streamlined model.

The result? Was so great that she shifted her entire business model.

This episode gets into the real mechanics of making a volume model work - not just the vision, but the actual tools, pricing logic, and workflow decisions that make it profitable rather than just busy. Naomi is honest about where volume photographers go wrong (usually by trying to cut costs in exactly the wrong places) and what she's built to make the numbers actually work.

We dig into...

• How Naomi recognized the workflow she'd already built was more valuable than she realized
• Why volume pricing requires MORE business knowledge, not less
• The tools that make her system run
• The difference between "volunteer" clients (like school photos) and popup studio clients - and why the numbers are surprisingly different
• What she'd tell any photographer considering this model before they dive in

Naomi also has a workflow resource for photographers who want to look over her shoulder at exactly how she runs these sessions - details below.

Links:

• Get access to Naomi's School Photographers Playbook
• Get inspired by Naomi's work.
• Edit smarter, not harder: ImagenAI
• Simplify your sales and client experience here GotPhoto
• Bring your images to life with stunning prints at Color Inc Photo Lab

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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What if the most profitable thing in your business isn't your highest-priced offer?

That's the question behind this episode - and the answer might surprise you. I brought in two photographers, Jenn Chen and Allison Maxwell, who have each built something I find genuinely fascinating: a lower-priced, accessible offer that sits at the front of their business and funnels clients into their higher-ticket work. Not as a loss leader or freebie, but as an actual profit center that also happens to grow their audience and warm up ideal clients.

Jenn runs a family and newborn photography business in California and started doing confetti mini sessions early in her business as a creative list-building strategy. Allison is based in central Arkansas and built her Playful Portraits offer out of necessity after an unexpected relocation.

In this episode, we dig into...

• How both women made sure their accessible offer felt genuinely different from their full work (so it wouldn't cannibalize their regular bookings)
• The soft, non-pushy way they convert mini clients into full-price clients over time
• Why Allison says 95% of her full-price work traces back to Playful Portraits - either directly or through referrals
• What it actually looks like to be a "model mullet" - donkey in the front, unicorn in the back

Links:

• Follow Jenn Chen on Instagram:
• Explore Allison Maxwell’s Photography Resources
• See Allison’s Work on Instagram

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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You know that moment when you look at your bank statement and realize you're still paying for software you stopped using three months ago? Yep. We've all been there.

Profitability isn't just about what you charge - it's about what you keep. And for most photographers, there's money unnecessarily leaking out of the business every single month that a little attention could stop.

In this episode, I'll walk you through my strategic approach to evaluating business expenses - not as a slash-and-burn exercise, but as a way to make your spending actually work for your business model. You'll come away with:

• A clear process for getting every expense out of your head and onto paper (or into Airtable!)
• Two simple filters to help you decide what's worth keeping and what isn't
• The "don't starve your business" principle (because cutting the wrong things can cost you more in the long run)
• A lightweight tracking system to keep expenses from getting away from you again

Whether your bank account is looking slim after slow season or you just want to feel more in control of where your money goes, this episode gives you a practical framework to work through it.

LINKS:

• Photographer's Business Dashboard
• Business model quiz

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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What if "Just raise your prices" is the wrong advice for right now?

That's a question a lot of photographers have been sitting with lately - and honestly, it's one worth taking seriously. When budgets feel tight and bookings feel uncertain, the standard advice can start to feel a little tone-deaf. But here's the thing: there are real, strategic ways to increase your profitability without ever touching your prices.

In this episode, I'm revisiting a framework I introduced way back in Episode 38 - the Donkey, Workhorse, and Unicorn business models - and looking at it through a fresh lens. Because after 16 years in this industry, I can tell you that the most profitable version of my business wasn't the one where I was working the hardest or charging the most. It was the one where I finally got smart about how I was structured.

In this episode, I'm breaking down:

• Why profitability is about what you KEEP, not just what you charge
• The three business models that can all be profitable in photography (and the very different ways they get there)
• Why the donkey model is the most misunderstood (and often the most profitable) of the three
• How to calculate your actual effective hourly rate so you can see exactly where you stand

This episode is the first in a four-part pricing and money series, and it sets the foundation for everything we'll be covering this month. Whether you're feeling nervous about the economy or just curious about whether there's a smarter way to structure things, this is a good place to start.

LINKS:

• Take the business model quiz:
• Listen to Episode 38 (from 2020)

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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What if the reason your marketing isn't converting has nothing to do with your content... and everything to do with the part that comes after it?

In this episode, Annemie and Dayna get a little theatrical to break down one of the most important (and most avoided) distinctions in your business: the difference between marketing and selling, and why you genuinely can't have one without the other.

Using Wicked as their framework, they make the case that Glinda (your marketing) gets all the love, while Elphaba (your selling) gets an unfair bad rap. But here's the truth: the magic only happens when they work together.

In this episode:

• Why marketing alone won't grow your business, and what has to happen next
• Where selling gets its "wicked" reputation (and why that's worth unpacking)
• How understanding your numbers changes your relationship with pricing conversations
• What it looks like to switch hats between marketing mode and selling mode, and why that skill is everything

No sparkly wand required... but it wouldn't hurt!

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Picture this: you're cruising down the highway, passing billboard after billboard without really registering any of them. Then hunger strikes, and suddenly that McDonald's sign is the only thing you can see.

That's how marketing works: you're not introducing yourself once and hoping for the best. You're showing up again and again, so that when your client's _"I need a photographer!"_ moment finally hits, yours is the name that comes to mind.

But here's the catch: even when someone is ready to pull off at the next exit and book, their brain starts throwing up speed bumps: questions about pricing, worries about their messy house, uncertainty about how the whole process works.

In this episode, Annemie and Dayna break down how to use your email and social media marketing to sand down those speed bumps before someone even _thinks_ about booking, making the decision to hire you feel easy, obvious, and overdue.

In this episode, we cover:

• The rule of seven, and why the repetition in your marketing isn't annoying, it's necessary
• Four of the most common client hesitations and how to address each one
• How to turn your FAQs and prep guide into a steady stream of evergreen content
• Why a clear, specific call to action matters more than you think (and what "vague booking" is costing you)

By the end, you'll have a whole new way to think about your social and email content... less like a relentless content treadmill, more like a helpful guide walking your ideal clients right to your door.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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For a long time, SEO gave us a set of rules to follow. There were a lot of rules, and following them all wasn't ever _simple_, but at least the playbook was fairly clear. These days, though, the landscape has shifted…

With the proliferation of AI tools and search algorithms, the way people find information online is evolving quickly. The rules around SEO are changing as well, and many photographers are wondering what actually matters now.

This week I’m joined by Corey Potter of Fuel Your Photos. Corey is a former wedding photographer who now helps photographers make their websites more discoverable, and he’s been studying AI's impact on search since the very beginning.

In this conversation, Corey breaks down what SEO really looks like in 2026. We talk about how AI powered search tools are influencing the way people look for photographers, why ranking on Google doesn’t always guarantee clicks anymore, and what photographers should focus on instead.

If SEO has started to feel overwhelming lately, this episode will help you focus on the fundamentals that still matter… clarity, consistency, and making it easy for both people and search tools to understand exactly how you help your clients.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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If you’re anything like most photographers, the thought of walking into a fundraiser, hosting an event, or introducing yourself at a networking mixer makes you want to put on your soft pants and climb back into bed. Which is exactly why I’m betting the rock quadrant of your marketing system is probably the one that needs the most attention.

The truth is, in-person marketing can be one of the fastest ways to build real momentum in your business… but that requires finding opportunities that feel aligned and doable!

For this episode, I went back through the archives and pulled together some of the best strategies we've covered on the podcast and bundled them into one super episode. These strategies aren't just effective, they're very doable! Grab a notebook, because there are a lot of ideas packed into this one...

• First, Nicole Begley shares charitable marketing strategies that actually convert.
• Then Michelle Franzetti walks through her creative approach to hosting gatherings that bring people together.
• Next, Michelle McAfee explains how to use your studio or other physical spaces as a relationship building tool.
• And finally, Angelica Pompey shares practical scripts for how to start conversations with anyone and what to say once you’re in the room.

You’ll walk away with permission to keep things simple and a reminder that the goal of networking is not to "win" the room. It’s to show up, be helpful, and let those relationships compound over time.

Ready to start filling your rock quadrant and building real momentum in your marketing? Listen in… and don’t forget to grab this week's action items at thiscantbethathard.com/darkroom.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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As the slow season fog lifts and spring energy kicks in, it can be tempting to try to chase the perfect marketing strategy… only to end up overwhelmed, second-guessing every move, and wondering why marketing always feels like a gamble.

This month, we're doing something brand new on the podcast called March Marketing Madness, and for the first time ever, we have a guest host! This Can't Be That Hard's very own marketing director, Dayna (who many of you know from the Consistency Club) is taking over the mic to walk us through a fun, practical way build a marketing game plan that actually works.

In this kickoff episode, Dayna and I introduce the Marketing Madness Bracket, a gamified way to think about your marketing ecosystem. We break your marketing efforts into four quadrants that work together to create real momentum.

Be sure to download your free March Marketing Madness Bracket inside the Darkroom Companion app so you can map out your strategy, spot the gaps, and make smarter decisions about where to focus your energy this year.

If you're ready to stop guessing where your next client is coming from and start building a marketing strategy that works, this episode is your starting line!

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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If you want your photography to be more than a hobby, getting your finances organized isn’t just a “nice to have” - it’s the foundation for a profitable, sustainable business. If you’ve ever promised yourself that “next year will be different” when tax season rolls around, this episode is for you.

Today, I’m joined by Tiffany Bastian, a no-nonsense accountant with over 20 years of experience who works exclusively with photographers across the US. Tiffany’s not a photographer herself, but she’s made it her mission to help creative entrepreneurs ditch the shame, get organized, and finally feel confident about their money. Imagine having an accountant who actually understands the ins and outs of your business - from digital files to sales tax in every state!

In this episode, we’re:

• Breaking down the emotional roadblocks that keep so many photographers stuck in financial overwhelm
• Sharing the first, most powerful step to financial clarity
• Demystifying bookkeeping and showing you how a little organization can lead to more freedom, better pricing, and less stress at tax time
• Exploring how financial organization isn’t about losing your creative spark - it’s about empowering you to run your business like a CEO and live the life you want

Ready to stop dreading your numbers and start feeling in control? Tiffany’s practical tips and real talk will help you take that first step - and trust me, your future self (and your bank account) will thank you!

LINKS:

• Check out Tiffany’s free guide, “Five Money Moves,” to jumpstart your financial organization.
• Learn more about Tiffany and her work with photographers.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Organization is not just about what your clients see… it's also about how your business feels to you.

In this episode, we dive deeper on our organization theme by looking at internal systems… the behind the scenes structure that keeps everything running smoothly.

I’m joined by Stacey Rolfe of Tog Hub, who helps photographers build streamlined, sustainable systems inside their CRMs. Stacey shares why burnout isn't usually about talent or motivation; instead, it's about capacity. When your schedule, pricing, and workflows are built around someone else’s life instead of your own, things start to crack.

We talk about

• setting boundaries around your real life first, then building your business around that
• quarterly CEO planning so you are not drifting off course
• creating one single source of truth for inquiries, bookings, and client communication
• using templates and simple pricing structures to dramatically reduce mental load

If your business feels reactive… like you are constantly paddling under the surface just to keep up… this conversation will help you see how a few intentional systems can create more calm, more confidence, and a lot more sustainability.

LINKS:

• Grab the FREE DIY Trap Masterclass and learn what’s really holding your business back.
• Streamline everything behind the scenes

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Organization isn’t just about tidy desks and color coded planners… it’s about how your business feels to your clients. This episode is part two of our organization series, and we’re digging into external organization… the systems, workflows, and processes your clients experience from inquiry to delivery.

I’m joined by systems strategist and photography specific VA Erin Wissig, whose work helps photographers take their workflows out of their heads and turn them into clear, repeatable systems. We talk about the difference between being organized behind the scenes and creating a client experience that feels confident, professional, and intentional.

Erin breaks down why friction at any point in the booking process can quietly cost you clients, how to think about your website as the first step in your workflow, and why automation doesn’t have to mean losing the personal touch. We also talk about booking calendars, follow ups, invoices, and the emotional weight photographers carry when systems aren’t doing their job.

If your business feels a little duct taped together, or if admin work is eating up time you’d rather spend shooting or resting, this conversation will help you see where a few strategic changes can make everything feel lighter and more sustainable.

Stick around until the end, because Erin shares a generous free resource that gives you a chance to talk through your own systems and pain points one on one.

LINKS:

• Book your coffee chat with Erin
• Connect with Erin on Instagram

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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What if the secret to a calmer, more creative business isn’t another color-coded planner or a prettier desk, but a system that actually works for you - quirks, chaos, and all? If you’ve ever felt like organization is just another thing on your to-do list (or that you’re “bad” at it), today's guest has a message you're going to want to hear.

Ashley Rose of Systems Over Stress joins us to share her refreshingly real approach to organization - one that supports your creativity instead of adding clutter to it. Ashley’s journey from feeling overwhelmed by the “little things” in business to building sustainable, ADHD-friendly systems is both relatable and inspiring. She’s proof that you don’t have to be naturally organized to run a smooth, thriving business.

Here’s what we’re diving into:

• Ashley’s simple, game-changing tip for spotting friction in your workflow (and why those tiny annoyances are actually goldmines for improvement)
• The difference between “fun” organization (hello, new planners!) and functional systems that actually move your business forward
• Why having a single “source of truth” for your clients and projects can save you hours - and your sanity
• How to stop chasing shiny new tools and start building systems that flex with your business as it grows

Ashley’s perspective is especially valuable if you’ve ever felt scattered, distracted, or like you’re constantly reinventing the wheel. She breaks down how to create organization that fits your real life - not some Instagram-perfect ideal.

Ready to reclaim your time, energy, and peace of mind? This episode is your permission slip to let go of perfection and start building systems that truly support you.

LINKS:

• Connect with Ashley on Instagram
• Check Ashley's Website
• Sign up for Ashley's Free Masterclass and learn the one system you need to double your client roster, work less hours & get better results.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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If you’ve been following along with our systems theme, you’ve already worked through marketing, sales, and fulfillment, the three core systems that can absolutely run your business. But even with those dialed in, many photographers still feel stuck on the income rollercoaster… great months followed by scary quiet ones.

In this episode, we focus on the final piece of the puzzle: building a repeat and referral system that turns great client experiences into steady, predictable income. Instead of crossing your fingers and hoping happy clients send people your way, we’re talking about how to support referrals intentionally and make repeat bookings feel easy and natural for your clients.

I break down how to ask for referrals in a way that feels aligned with your brand, why reminders matter more than incentives, and how to reduce friction so clients actually follow through. We also dive into repeat clients, why they’re often your most reliable source of revenue, and how to design simple systems that help clients come back without relying on memory or motivation.

Strong systems don’t box you in. They give you freedom. And when referrals and repeat business are supported on purpose, your business starts to grow with far less effort.

LINKS:

• Revenue on Repeat - Step by step course on building a client membership or recurring offer for predictable income
• The Consistency Club - Marketing system for attracting leads consistently without burning out
• The Simple Sales Blueprint - Course covering sales and fulfillment systems that turn inquiries into confident bookings

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Last week, we talked about building a marketing system that helps you consistently attract new leads without burning out, but great marketing alone isn't enough. If inquiries aren’t converting into bookings, or bookings aren’t turning into great client experiences, your whole business starts to wobble.

That’s why this week I’m zooming in on sales and fulfillment. Instead of chasing yeses or worrying about being pushy, I walk you through how to design a sales process that helps the right clients feel informed, confident, and excited to book. From there, we move into fulfillment… the systems that ensure every client gets a great experience every single time.

Marketing brings people to the door. Sales invites them in. Fulfillment makes them want to stay. When all three of these systems are working together, your business feels more stable, more predictable, and far easier to run. Go listen to this week’s episode, then head into the Darkroom to get your Action Items for the week. I’ve laid out simple next steps to help you strengthen these systems one small improvement at a time.

LINKS:

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass to fine-tune your Sales System
• Log in The Darkroom, to get your free weekly action items

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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If there is one thing that burns photographers out faster than almost anything else, it’s marketing. What is supposed to feel like connection often feels more like an endless cycle of posting, scrolling, and second guessing… all while the rules keep changing.

In this episode, I’m kicking off our Systems Theme by talking about how to build a marketing system that actually feels like connection (and supports your business instead of draining it). We look at why chasing trends and algorithms isn’t the answer, and how focusing on trust, local connection, and clear priorities leads to more sustainable growth.

You’ll hear more about

• why your marketing goals are much more achievable than you’ve been led to believe
• how real life connection can do more heavy lifting than constant online visibility
• what a "good enough" marketing system actually looks like when you stop trying to do everything

When you’re done listening, log into the Darkroom to get this week’s To Dos and resources, so you can turn these ideas into action!

LINKS:

• Get weekly action prompts + resources from each episode inside The Darkroom; your free podcast companion space.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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We're kicking 2026 off with some big milestones around here! At the time this goes live, we're crossing the six year anniversary of the launch of Simple Sales and the almost six-year anniversary of the podcast. On top of that, we recently crossed half a million downloads AND this is episode 350! With all these stars aligning, it felt like the right time to pause, reflect, and make some intentional decisions about what comes next.

In this special episode, I'm share why the mission behind This Can’t Be That Hard hasn’t changed, even though the industry and the way we consume information absolutely has. Photographers don’t need more ideas or more content… they need clarity, focus, and support turning good information into real action. That realization is shaping a new direction for the podcast, one that treats each episode less like passive listening and more like a weekly business workout.

Tune in to hear more about the changes you’ll be seeing this year, including themed content, a more direct and transparent approach, and the launch of The Darkroom… a brand new, free companion app I designed to help you take action, find exactly what you need inside the podcast archive, and play a more active role in shaping our future episodes.

This isn’t an ending… it’s a new beginning, and I’m excited to build what comes next together!

LINKS:

• Click here to join The Darkroom, our free podcast companion app that gives you searching superpowers, next step guidance, and a direct line to helping us plan future content!

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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If you’ve ever felt stuck between pricing models or frustrated by sales systems that don’t quite fit, this episode will hit home.

For our final episode of the year, I’m resharing a conversation I had with Jill Smith on The Business Focused Photographer Podcast about the story behind Simple Sales, how it came to be, and why it’s still the system that completely changed the way I run my photography business.

We talked about bridging the gap between all inclusive and in person sales, how to raise your prices with confidence, and what it looks like to use creativity not just in your art, but in the way you build your business.

I wanted to share this one now because January is such a natural time to revisit your systems and pricing. My hope is that this conversation gives you clarity and confidence to build a business that feels sustainable, balanced, and uniquely yours.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Marketing can feel like a mystery sometimes… especially when you’re trying to figure out what actually works versus what just burns time.

This week, I’m resharing a conversation I had with Kim Box on The Motherhood Anthology Podcast where we talked about one of my favorite topics… marketing that actually moves the needle.

We got into the difference between marketing tactics and marketing systems, how to balance consistency with creativity, and how to make your marketing feel more like flow and less like force. I also shared a new metaphor for planning your strategy that I call the marketing windmill… a simple framework for building a marketing plan that’s balanced, sustainable, and actually enjoyable.

And because I can’t talk about marketing without bringing up AI, we also explored how photographers can use tools like Custom GPTs to create authentic content faster and easier.

If you’ve been rethinking how to show up in your business and want your marketing to feel lighter, smarter, and a whole lot more sustainable, this one’s for you.

LINKS:

• Learn more about the Consistency Club and our AI powered blog builder.
• Follow along on Instagram: @thiscantbethathard

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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AI is everywhere right now… and whether it excites you or makes you want to pull the covers over your head, it’s here to stay.

This week, I’m resharing a conversation I had with my friend Colie James on her podcast Business First Creatives. Colie is one of those people who always gets my wheels turning, and this episode is a perfect example of that. We talked about how AI is showing up in our businesses, what it’s actually good for, and how photographers can use it to create content faster without losing their voice.

I also shared a behind the scenes look at the AI powered blogging tool we added inside the Consistency Club this year. It’s become a total game changer for our members… saving time, improving SEO, and helping more photographers finally get consistent with their marketing.

If you’ve been curious about how AI could fit into your workflow, or just want to hear a thoughtful, realistic take on what this all means for creative business owners, you’ll love this one.

LINK:

• Try the Consistency Club blog builder for just $9
• Learn more about the Consistency Club
• Follow along on Instagram: @thiscantbethathard

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Most photographers know the feast-or-famine feeling all too well… one month you’re booked solid, and the next you’re wondering where the next client will come from.

In this week’s episode, I’m resharing a conversation I had with Kimberly Espinel on her podcast Eat, Capture, Share, where we dig into one of my favorite topics: building recurring revenue through a portrait membership.

We talk about how the idea was born out of an ankle injury (yep, really), why recurring revenue has been the single biggest stabilizer in my business, and how you can apply the same model whether you photograph families, brands, or restaurants. Kimberly and I also talk about sustainability... not just in income, but in the systems and workflows that keep your creative energy from burning out.

If you’re starting to plan for the new year and craving a steadier foundation for your business, this one’s full of practical inspiration to get you thinking about what stability could look like for you.

LINKS:

• Learn more about Revenue on Repeat: The membership model that helps photographers create recurring income
• Explore free resources + tools for photographers

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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When you’ve been in business for a while, it’s easy to fall into the habit of focusing on tactics… what to post, what to charge, what to offer next. But sometimes the real growth happens when you zoom out and look at the bigger picture.

This week, I’m sharing a conversation that originally aired on Leah O’Connell’s podcast Photo Fuel. Leah and I dove into the parts of business that don’t always make it into strategy guides; risk, failure, ego, and what it really means to build something that lasts. We talked about creativity, not just in the work we make, but in how we make decisions, and why “burn it all down” energy isn’t always the answer when things get hard.

If you’re in a season of rethinking what you want your business to look like… or just need a good listen.

LINKS:

• Learn more about Revenue on Repeat: The membership model that helps photographers create recurring income
• Explore free resources + tools for photographers

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Earlier this year, at the Reset Conference, Dayna asked a handful of photographers one simple question: What advice would you give to your past self?

Their answers were honest, funny, and full of hard-won perspective. The exact kind of reminders you need when you’re tired, busy, and maybe in need of a little encouragement. From pricing and boundaries to burnout and balance, these short conversations offer a dose of wisdom from people who’ve been right where you are.

So queue this one up while you’re editing, driving to a session, or cooking Thanksgiving dinner… and let a few fellow photographers remind you that you’re doing just fine.

LINKS:

• The Reset Conference: Join us next year at Reset! Use code ANNEMIE to save
• This Can’t Be That Hard Resources: Explore tools, courses, and systems to help your business run more smoothly year-round.
• The Consistency Club: Monthly marketing content and support to keep your business visible — even during busy season.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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We’ve all had those weeks where the inbox is overflowing, deadlines are creeping up, and everything feels one small hiccup away from chaos. When that happens, it’s easy to blame your motivation or time management. But the truth is, when things feel chaotic or inconsistent, it’s usually not a motivation problem... It’s a systems problem.

In this episode, I’m breaking down the five core systems that keep your photography business running smoothly: marketing, sales, fulfillment, retention, and accounting… plus one more that most people skip, data tracking. We’ll talk about what each one actually looks like in real life, how to tell when it’s working (or not), and why putting these in place doesn’t have to be complicated or corporate.

I’ll also share some of my favorite resources that help make these systems easier, like the Simple Sales Blueprint, Revenue on Repeat, and the Photographer’s Business Dashboard, so you can stop relying on hustle and start relying on structure.

If you ever struggle with procrastination, this episode will help you put systems in place that save your time, energy, and sanity.

LINKS:

• The Consistency Club: Your monthly marketing system in a box — stay visible without the hustle.
• Simple Sales Blueprint: Learn how to build a sales system that’s simple, transparent, and effective.
• Revenue on Repeat: Create a portrait membership system that locks in repeat clients and predictable income.
• Photographer’s Business Dashboard: Track your numbers, see your trends, and finally understand your business data.
• Profit First by Mike Michalowicz: A simple, practical framework for managing your money so your business stays healthy and profitable.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Big news… next week our ONLY sale of the year is dropping! Each day a different deal will go live... for 24 hours ONLY so if you want it, you have to hop on it!

In this special episode of the podcast Dayna and I are walking you through all five days of deals so you can plan ahead, shop smart, and start 2026 feeling calm, organized, and ready. We’ll share what’s included each day, who it’s best for, and how to make the most of the sale without the overwhelm. Whether you’ve had your eye on a course, a coaching spot, or a membership upgrade, this episode gives you the inside scoop so you can go in ready.

Here’s what’s coming your way:

• Monday 11/17 – Photographers Business Dashboard 40% off

• Tuesday 11/18 – Revenue on Repeat $150 Off

• Wednesday 11/19 – Last Chance Marketing Bundle

• Thursday 11/20 – Coaching with Annemie and Dayna

• Friday 11/21 – Consistency Club LIFETIME access and annual pass bonus's

Remember, each offer is live for just 24 hours, starting Monday November 17, at 7 am EST, so this episode is your early access guide... no guessing, no FOMO. Tune in, take a few notes, and set those reminders — it all kicks off Monday morning!

LINKS:

• Preview the sale and set reminders

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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We’ve talked a lot about AI on the show this year, but this week’s conversation might be my favorite take yet... because instead of talking about how to save time or write faster, we’re talking about how AI can actually make your work more creative and more personal.

I’m joined by Austin-based photographer Jessica Martin, who’s using AI in ways that honestly surprised me. She’s building tools that help her connect more deeply with her clients; from personalized prompts that make her seniors feel seen to playful ideas that keep family sessions fun and interactive.

Jessica shares how she uses ChatGPT to brainstorm and customize ideas, how she turns those digital concepts into real-world client experiences, and why she sees AI as a creative partner rather than a replacement.

If you’ve been curious about AI but aren’t sure how to make it feel authentic or human, this episode will show you what’s possible when technology supports your imagination instead of competing with it.

LINKS:

• Home of Jessica’s photography work, senior prompts, and her upcoming custom GPT project.
• Follow Jessica on Instagram

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Gratitude is everywhere this time of year… but let’s be real: when you’re overwhelmed or frustrated or stuck in your business, gratitude can feel like just one more thing on your to do list.

This week I’m sharing the simple shift I made to turn gratitude into something that actually fuels motivation - no journaling required. It’s one small addition to my weekly workflow that’s helped me see progress, stay grounded, and end the year feeling proud instead of frazzled.

If you’ve been in a season where it’s hard to see the wins, this one’s a quick reset that’ll help you spot the progress hiding in plain sight.

LINKS:

• Ready to track your data and your wins? Check out the Photographer's Business Dashboard

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Well, friends, it's time for one of my favorite episodes of the year - Photographer’s Horror Stories! And I have to say: this year’s lineup does not disappoint!

We’re talking session location disasters, misbehaving clients, equipment failures and wardrobe malfunctions that’ll make you cringe and laugh at the same time. These stories are the perfect reminder that no one's business is as perfect as it may look on the outside... and that we've all had days that make us want to crawl under a rock.

If you’re deep in editing marathons and client emails, grab a coffee, press play, and laugh along!

• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Leaving a stable government job to photograph dogs might sound like a leap… but for Australian photographer Ina Jalil, it was a well thought-out, strategic next step. With a background in finance and a deep love for animals, she built a thriving, multi–six-figure pet photography business that’s equal parts heart and data.

Ina and I talk about what that journey really looked like - the mindset shifts that helped her move from employee to entrepreneur, the pricing experiments that gave her confidence, and why hiring help early was a game changer.

If you’ve ever wondered whether narrowing your focus could actually open more doors, Ina’s story is proof that clarity creates growth, and that you can build something profitable, focused, and freeing one intentional step at a time.

LINKS:

• Listen to Ina’s podcast: The Pet Photographers’ Journal – where Ina shares stories, strategies, and marketing tips for pet photographers and creatives.
• Follow Ina on Instagram
• Explore mentoring and resources: Ina J Photography Education – learn from Ina’s frameworks, mini courses, and mentoring offers designed to help photographers grow sustainably.
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Google is changing how people find photographers online, and your Google Business Profile is now more important than ever. Now that AI Overviews are showing up above traditional search results, it's super-important to create a well-optimized profile that will put you ahead of competitors (even the ones who've been around longer).

This week, I’m joined by photographer and marketing strategist Lydia Fine to break down the simple profile updates that can make the biggest difference. We talk about distance, relevance, and prominence (the three signals Google uses to decide who shows up), plus how to use photos, reviews, and services inside your profile to build trust fast.

If you’ve been relying only on your website to bring in leads, this episode is your nudge to give your Google Business Profile some love… and start showing up where your next clients are already searching.

LINKS:

• Visit Lydia’s website
• Follow Lydia Fine for business tips
• Lydia's Free Download to help you Mater Google Business Profiles → How I Get Clients with Google Reviews
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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What's worse than being up to your eyeballs in your own pre-holiday stress? Dealing with a client who's up to THEIR eyeballs in that same stress... and taking it out on you.

Busy season is prime time for client complaints... even if their frustration isn’t actually about you. But whatever the reason, when a frustrated client shows up in your inbox, you have to set your own stress aside and handle the situation like a pro.

In this week’s episode, I’m talking about how to navigate sticky scenarios with empathy and professionalism, without sacrificing your sanity. From bending the rules to keep someone calm to confidently holding the boundaries that keep your business sustainable, these are the practices that will help you protect your time, your reputation, and your peace of mind.

Difficult clients happen. But they don’t have to derail your season or your love for this work!

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Brand photography is having a moment... and for good reason! It’s fun, it’s in demand, and for many of us, it’s a natural, lucrative add-on to the work we’re already doing. But brand sessions aren’t just portraits with a laptop. Today I’m joined by photographer and educator Emily Kim, whose systems-first approach makes brand work feel clear, creative, and effective.

We get into what truly separates a brand session from a portrait session, why the end use of the images should drive every decision you make, and how to plan shoots that stand out in a sea of sameness. Emily also shares her 5x5 method for building a flexible shot list that gives you variety... without locking you into a stiff posing flow.

If you’re adding brand work or tightening up what you already offer, a clear framework saves you time, delights clients, and delivers images that actually get used across websites, social, and ads. Less guesswork, more intentional variety!

LINKS:

• Grab Emily’s Brand Photo Shot List Builder
• Follow Emily on Instagram
• Find Emily on YouTube

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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When you’re buried in work during busy season, it’s easy to fall into survival mode: shoot, edit, deliver, repeat. And while that might get you through the week, it’s not what sets you up for long-term success.

In this episode, I’m sharing simple, sustainable ways to keep your client experience strong and your marketing consistent, even when you’re racing at full speed. From small personal touches that make clients feel cared for, to rebooking incentives and referral strategies, these are shifts that help you leverage your momentum now so it carries you well into the next season.

Being busy is a gift in business, but it doesn’t have to leave you exhausted or starting from scratch when things slow down. Take a quick pit stop with me today and learn how to turn your busiest months into fuel for future growth.

LINKS:

• Need some help keeping up with your marketing? Join the Consistency Club and let us take marketing off your to-do list

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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For a lot of photographers, the idea of public speaking is a… ✋ hard pass. Maybe you’re not interested in getting on a big stage (maybe you’re not interested in teaching at all!) but in this episode, you'll hear why showing up and speaking - whether that’s at a local PTA meeting, a community fundraiser, or on your Instagram stories - can be one of the most powerful ways to build trust, authority, and connection with your ideal clients.

In this conversation, I’m joined by Laylee Emadi - speaker, educator, and founder of The Creative Educator Conference. With a background in both teaching and photography, Laylee knows firsthand how many opportunities can open up when you use your voice well.

We dig into why speaking isn’t just for educators, how it can grow your photography business, and what to do if you are curious about stepping into the education space.

What you'll learn:

🎤 Speaking isn’t limited to big stages or big names

🌱 Everyday opportunities that can grow your business

💬 Your voice builds trust faster than polished posts

⚡ Where photographers get stuck (and how to avoid it)

🌈 First steps to practice speaking with confidence

In this era of AI, there's no better time to stop hiding behind your work and use your voice to connect, build authority, and open doors you didn’t even know were there.

LINKS:

• Follow Laylee on Instagram
• Visit Laylee’s website
• Listen to The Laylee Emadi Podcast

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Some years, we roll into busy season with a calendar full of sessions… and other years, not so much. It can feel a little scary to stare at a mostly empty fall calendar, especially after all the work you’ve put into filling that calendar.

If you’re in that spot right now, take a deep breath: a slow season doesn’t mean you're failing. What it means is one of two things: either you have a visibility issue (not enough people know you’re available) or a conversion issue (people are inquiring but not booking).

In this episode, I’ll walk you through how to tell which problem you’re facing, and then share both quick wins and bigger-picture strategies to help you address those problems and turn things around. From using email and social posts more effectively to tightening up your inquiry process, there are so many ways to keep your calendar from gathering dust.

The truth is, a slower season can be a powerful opportunity to refine your systems and reconnect with your clients. So before you panic or slash your prices, press play and let’s walk through the steps together.

LINKS:

• Struggling with visibility? Join the Consistency Club - that's what we help photographers with!

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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There are two kinds of marketing strategies most photographers think about: the kind that happens online, and the kind that - well - doesn’t happen at all. But there’s a third option, and it might just be the fastest, most effective way to build trust, get referrals, and create buzz around your business (without spending a dime on ads or fighting the algorithm).

I’m talking about in-person events - IRL. Real people. Same room.

Hold up now! Before you introverts scroll on by, hear me out... These don’t have to be fancy conferences or big productions. Today’s guest, Michelle Franzetti, is a boudoir photographer and self-described introvert who’s built a thriving word-of-mouth marketing engine through small, creative, low-pressure gatherings that consistently fill her calendar.

With her background in Parks & Rec (yes, just like the show), she knows how powerful “the gathering effect” can be, and she’s here to share her playbook for making it work in your business.

What you’ll learn:

🎉 Why casual gatherings can be your best marketing strategy

👯‍♀️ How events create trust and connection (even if you’re an introvert)

💡 Creative, low-cost event ideas that attract the right clients

🤝 Ways to partner with other businesses for win-win events

📅 Why putting a date on the calendar is the hardest (and most important) step

Michelle is sharing everything you need to add this new tool to your marketing toolbox… one that gets you off the algorithm treadmill and into real connections that actually last.

LINKS:

• Follow Michelle on Instagram
• Join her Facebook community
• Grab Michelle's free guide with 30 in-person event ideas

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Search algorithms are changing fast, but for once, the shift is in our favor. With Google rolling out AI summaries and clients turning to Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest for answers to their questions, the playing field is leveling in a way that creates huge opportunities for photographers.

If you’ve ever wished the SEO game felt more fair - or that you didn’t have to post on social media quite so much - your wishes are coming true... but you have to understand the new rules in order to play the game.

Dayna’s back to talk us through what’s changing, why this moment is a once-in-a-career opportunity for photographers, and how small tweaks to your workflow now can pay off in a big way.

What you’ll learn:

🔎 Why AI summaries are changing Google results

📱 How people now search social for answers instead of Google

🛡️ What E-E-A-T means and how it impacts your SEO

📝 Why updated, helpful blogs beat old portfolio posts

♻️ How one researched blog can fuel your email, reels, and carousels for weeks

Now is the moment to get ahead of the curve: create content that’s genuinely useful, let it work harder for you, and free yourself up to spend more time behind the camera.

LINKS:

• Learn more about Consistency Club and try the new Blog Builder

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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In a world where we can market our businesses from behind a screen, it’s easy to believe that in-person networking is optional. But the truth is, nothing replaces the connections you make face-to-face. Meeting someone in real life makes you stand out in a way no post or DM ever could. People remember your energy, your personality, and the genuine conversation you shared. And those moments can turn into opportunities you’d never find online.

In this episode, photographer, business coach, and all-around connection-builder Angelica Pompy is sharing three practical ways to network like a pro, even if you’re an introvert. These are strategies you can start using right away to stand out, meet the right people, and turn conversations into opportunities.

Here’s what we cover:

• How to set your intention before you walk in
• Breaking the ice with the shyest person in the room
• Asking open-ended questions that spark conversation
• Using a QR code to connect instantly
• Following up in a unique way so they remember you

Angelica also shares the story of how one event she almost walked away from turned into nearly six figures in revenue… proof that showing up can pay off in a big way!

LINKS:

• Follow Angelica on Instagram
• Grab Angelica’s free workbook
• Learn more about Simple Sales

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Have you ever looked up from your inbox and wondered how the whole day slipped away? When you're a one-woman show, it’s easy to get buried in admin work, replying to leads, and coordinating schedules instead of doing the more meaningful work that lights you up.

In this episode, I’m joined by Melissa Rich, a former wedding photographer turned systems and workflow consultant, to talk about automation strategies that save hours each week without making your business feel robotic. Melissa shares her top three “quick win” automations that photographers can set up in an afternoon to make client communication smoother, scheduling easier, and booking faster - all while keeping things warm and personal.

We cover:

• The first automation every photographer should set up
• How a simple pre-session email can improve client satisfaction
• Why a scheduling tool is one of the easiest ways to reduce friction
• How to audit your current systems so you know what’s not working

Whether your business systems need a total overhaul or just a few strategic upgrades, Melissa’s advice will help you get more done with less stress.

LINKS:

• Follow Melissa on Instagram
• Get Melissa’s Quick Win Automation Guide
• Learn more about Simple Sales

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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When it comes to running a profitable, sustainable business, it’s not just about booking more sessions… it’s about building more value into the ones you already have.

In this episode, I’m sharing four creative, (semi) low-lift ways to do exactly that, layering thoughtful, high-impact offers into your existing workflow. These aren’t gimmicky upsells or pushy pitches. They’re smart, strategic solutions that solve real problems for your clients... sometimes before they even know they have them.

From headshots and pet portraits to photo clean-up services, family yearbooks, and legacy storytelling, these ideas are designed to increase your sales average and your client loyalty. They're not just about boosting revenue... they're about elevating the experience you provide and positioning yourself as more than a photographer.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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When AI first came on the scene, I was skeptical, and my early interactions confirmed my suspicions: when it came to content, AI's attempts were generic and easy to spot.

But AI has evolved, and so have my opinions. I’ve come to believe that when used well, AI doesn’t take over your voice... it helps you amplify it. It doesn’t steal your creativity... it gives you time to actually use it.

In this episode, I’m talking with Kinsey Soderberg of Authentic AI about how creatives (even skeptical ones!) can use AI in a way that feels aligned, ethical, and actually helpful. We’re breaking down:

• Why creatives and women especially need to be shaping how AI evolves
• What it means to take a human-first approach to AI
• And how we co-created a brand new AI-powered blogging tool for Consistency Club that helps photographers write better blog posts faster... without losing their voice or uniqueness in the process

If you’ve been curious about AI but don’t want to sound like a bro-y robot, this episode is a refreshing, no-pressure look at what’s possible when strategy and soul work together.

LINKS:

• Follow Kinsey on Instagram
• Visit Kinsey’s website
• Register for the Summit (and get your workbook!)
• Join Consistency Club
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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What happens when someone who's spent 15 years hiring photographers for brands like Netflix, Masterclass, and AARP writes a book about how the photo industry really works?

You get The Photo Hustle, a straight-talking, wildly helpful roadmap to booking clients, getting paid, and actually making a viable career out of commercial photography. In this episode, I’m chatting with author, photo editor, and creative director Karen Williams about what she’s learned on the inside of the brand and editorial world, along with what photographers at every level can take away from it.

We talk about pricing, licensing, reputation, portfolio building, imposter syndrome, and the truth behind that elusive “six-figure” dream. Karen doesn’t hold back… and her insights will stick with you long after the episode ends.

LINKS:

• Grab Karen’s book The Photo Hustle
• Follow Karen on Instagram

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Pricing might just be the hardest piece of the business puzzle, and not because most of us don't love math. Sure, you need to know your numbers, but there's so much psychology involved in pricing, too: it's one of the most powerful ways you communicate your value, your brand, and your confidence.

In this episode, I’m walking you through the five key building blocks of a strategic pricing system - the pieces that take your rates from guesswork to a rock-solid reflection of what you really offer. We’ll talk about how to reverse-engineer your pricing based on your financial goals and ideal client, why undercharging can actually lead to burnout, and how to make sure your price tells the right story about your work.

If you’ve ever second-guessed your rates (or felt that dreaded pricing wobble in your gut), this one’s for you.

LINKS:

• Watch the free Simple Sales Masterclass
• Learn the Simple Sales Blueprint
• Follow us on Instagram

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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What if your next senior session didn’t just capture once-in-a-lifetime memories… but created them as well?

In this episode, I’m joined by Kellie Llewellyn, a North Dakota-based photographer who has carved out a unique (and wildly appealing) niche in her business: destination senior sessions. Kellie has traveled with seniors, their best friends, and even their families to locations like Joshua Tree, the Oregon coast, and beyond, turning traditional photo sessions into unforgettable experiences.

We talk about the creative spark that comes with new locations, the logistical and financial realities behind these trips, and how she’s grown this part of her business from passion project to profitable offering. From pricing and contracts to behind-the-scenes strategy, Kellie is a total open book. If you’ve ever dreamed about mixing business with a little adventure, this will inspire you to get started!

LINKS:

• Follow Kellie on Instagram
• Visit Kellie’s Website
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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When you're deep in the thick of running a business, it’s easy to feel like you should be further along. But just because you haven’t “made it” yet (whatever that means) doesn’t mean you’re not making real, meaningful progress.

In this episode, I’m sharing three often-overlooked signs that you’re doing better than it may feel like you're doing. We’ll talk about how to recognize sustainable growth, why rest isn’t a setback, and how efficiency quietly signals your evolution as a business owner.

This is your reminder to pause, look back, and take in the view. Because chances are... you’ve come farther than you think!

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Ever wonder what makes some photographers get tons of referrals and repeat business while others struggle to generate that kind of buzz? Hint: it's probably not the quality of their images.

In this episode, I’m talking with wedding and commercial photographer Miles Witt Boyer about what it looks like to be the most valuable person in the room, and why that matters more than ever in today's competitive landscape.

This is a conversation about client experience, pricing, creative fulfillment, and marketing that doesn’t feel like marketing. We discuss why value differs from worth, what it means to create genuine connections (as opposed to staged content), and how to surpass the “minimum standard” in your niche without burning yourself out.

Links:

• Follow Miles Witt Boyer on Instagram
• Learn more about The Photographic Collective
• Explore Imagine AI Editing
• Want to edit like Miles? Buy his profile here

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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We all know that small, consistent actions pay off over time… but when it comes to marketing our photography businesses, too many of us are still chasing quick wins and big bursts of effort that - let’s be honest - often lead to burnout and disappointment.

When things slow down, it’s easy to fall into the trap of panic marketing… throwing out a flurry of posts, sending a couple of emails after months of silence, maybe even dreaming up a last-minute sale to get the calendar moving again.

But that kind of all-or-nothing energy? It’s like buying a lottery ticket and hoping it will solve everything.

If you’ve been feeling the pressure to “make something happen” with your marketing, this episode is your invitation to take a breath… and take a slower, steadier approach that actually gets results (even if it feels boring at first).

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Just because something works doesn’t mean you have to keep doing it.

Today, I’m joined once again by my brilliant friend Sabrina Gebhardt for a conversation that’s all about letting go... of offers, expectations, even identities that no longer serve you.

Sabrina shares three major decisions she made in 2024 to release things that were still generating revenue (and still “made sense” on paper), but that no longer felt aligned. We talk about the fear of quitting, the mental weight of dragging something behind you, and how releasing what no longer fits can make space for what’s next (sometimes sooner than you think!)

As creative entrepreneurs, our interests shift. What lights us up in one season might feel heavy or out of sync in another. That’s not failure - it’s growth. In fact, giving yourself permission to change might just be the smartest business move you make all year.

• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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There’s this idea floating around that unless you’re all-in on your photography business—fully booked, full-time, aiming for six figures and beyond—what you're doing doesn't really count.

But over the years, I’ve worked with countless photographers who are intentionally building part-time businesses, whether that's because they’re just getting started, running a household, or working another job that they can't or don't want to give up. And in many cases, those "limitations" lead to more clarity, more intention, and a stronger business.

In today’s episode, I’m sharing what I’ve learned from supporting photographers who are growing their businesses in the margins - starting with why that "constraint" might just turn out to be your biggest strength. We’ll talk about how to build your business on purpose so you can make the most of your time and energy, no matter how limited it might feel.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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You don’t have to dance, lip sync, or post every day to make Instagram work for your photography business, but you do need a strategy.

This week, I’m joined by food photographer, educator, and author Kimberly Espinel who literally wrote the book on Instagram strategy. We're diving into what’s actually working on Instagram in 2025, whether you’re trying to attract more clients, stay top-of-mind, or stop second-guessing your content.

With her refreshing approach, Kimberly highlights three simple strategies that any photographer can use to grow and connect without burning out; consistency, personal presence, and storytelling.

Kimberly’s advice is practical, generous, and surprisingly doable. If Instagram has felt like a time-sucking mystery lately, this episode will help you reset.

Links:

• Follow Kimberly on Instagram
• Get her book, How to Make Your Food Famous, anywhere books are sold.
• Listen to her podcast Eat Capture Share
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Most photographers build their businesses around one signature offer—and that’s a great place to start. But if that’s the only offer on your menu, your business may be more fragile than you think.

In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the three types of offers every photography business should have: your core offer (aka your bread and butter), an entry offer (for those not quite ready to go all-in), and an expansion offer (for the people who already love you and want more). When these three work together, you create a flexible, sustainable system that supports both your income and your clients.

If you’ve been stuck in a one-offer cycle, this episode will help you expand your offer suite in a way that’s aligned, strategic, and surprisingly simple.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Your website might look great—but is it actually doing the work of turning curious browsers into paying clients?

In this week’s episode, I’m joined by web designer and strategist Caitlin Teixeira (aka Catie Means Business), the mastermind behind my current website and one of the most insightful, strategic creatives I’ve had the pleasure of working with. Caitlin shares why a website isn’t just a digital business card—it’s a credibility engine, a trust builder, and a strategic tool that should help you reach specific goals depending on your business model.

We talk about how service providers, digital educators, and nonprofits all need different kinds of websites, and why just cobbling together ideas from other people's sites can actually hurt your conversions. Plus, Caitlin breaks down what she calls “credibility boosters” and “credibility blockers” and how stacking the right ones makes the difference between a warm lead and a lost visitor.

If you’re wondering why your site isn’t converting or looking to upgrade your client experience online, this one’s packed with clarity and actionable insights.

LINKS:

• Check out Caitlin’s free mini podcast series: From Service Provider to Trusted Expert
• Connect with Caitlin on Instagram:
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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If you’ve ever said yes to a last-minute request you didn’t really have time for, or delivered more than you promised because you were afraid of disappointing someone, this one’s for you.

In this short solo episode, I’m talking about boundaries: not just as a form of self-protection, but as a powerful way to communicate your brand, serve your clients well, and build trust in your process. Saying no can be hard, but boundaries create clarity. And clarity builds trust.

We’re digging into why boundaries are not the enemy of a great client experience, how to set and hold boundaries with confidence, and how to make them part of your systems so you don’t have to scramble every time someone pushes the line.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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We’re constantly told that blogging is great for SEO, but most photographers still aren’t doing it. Why? Because it feels like a heavy lift for an uncertain payoff (not to mention it's hard to know what to say)!

This week, I’m joined by photographer and PR pro Kate Wark, who not only understands the power of blogging from a strategic perspective but actually ghostwrites blogs for other creatives. She’s sharing practical tips, mindset shifts, and tangible topic ideas to help you get started (or get consistent) with blogging in a way that works for you.

We talk about how blogging builds credibility with clients, how to find your voice (or work with someone else to write in it), and why blogging can be one of the hardest-working pieces of your long-term marketing strategy... even beyond SEO.

If blogging’s been sitting on your 'someday' list, this episode will get you fired up to finally make it happen.

LINKS:

• Follow Kate on Instagram
• Visit Kate’s website
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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You’ve done the math. You know what your cost of doing business is. You’ve looked at what other photographers in your market are charging. So why does pricing your work still feel so complicated?

This week I’m getting into the real reasons pricing can feel so hard. I’ll walk you through three key mindset shifts that every photographer needs to make in order to price their work confidently, communicate that value clearly, and stop tying their self-worth to their price tag. We’ll talk about what’s really happening when someone says you’re too expensive, how the way you present your pricing matters just as much as the number itself, and why detaching your identity from your price is crucial for long-term success.

If pricing still makes you sweat a little, this episode will help you shift from second-guessing to standing tall.

LINKS:

• Free Pricing Confidence Guide
• Explore more resources

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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We all love the idea of a business that grows effortlessly through word of mouth....but that kind of growth doesn’t come from luck—it comes from delivering a client experience that’s SO good, people can’t stop talking about it.

In this episode, I’m joined by photographer and educator Natasha Sewell, who’s built a thriving, referral-based business by getting super intentional about how she connects with clients—before, during, and after the session.

Natasha's strategies go way beyond what most people consider good customer service without sliding into weird or expensive territory. In our conversation she shares specific, creative, and totally doable ways to improve your client journey, from captivating redirect pages and offbeat session prep ideas to ongoing relationship-building long after the photos have been delivered.

Whether your calendar is full or you’re trying to attract more of the right people, this episode will help you take your client experience to the next level—and build a business people rave about.

LINKS:

• Natasha’s Client Experience Freebie
• Learn more about The Client Experience Blueprint
• Follow Natasha on Instagram
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Marketing isn’t just about getting seen—it’s about building trust. And building trust, as it turns out, is a lot like building your credit score....

Clients are constantly (and often unconsciously) evaluating whether they trust you enough to book with you. It’s not exactly a number they can look up, but the signals you’re sending through your website, social media, pricing, and consistency are all part of the equation.

Think of it like a business version of a credit score. It builds slowly, gets stronger over time, and—when done right—makes everything in your business easier.

In this episode, I’ll walk you through the five key areas that shape your “trust score" ... I'll give you tools to build deeper confidence with every interaction, plus teach you how to recognize where things might be slipping, and what you can do to boost that score in simple, consistent ways.

LINK:

• Learn more about The Consistency Club

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Some interviews go exactly where you expect… and others take a beautiful turn into even better territory. That’s exactly what happened in this conversation with photographer, systems wizard, and community builder Stacey Rolfe.

What started as a conversation about client experience ended up touching on everything from burnout recovery and flexible business models to the power of taking imperfect action and letting go of people-pleasing in your business. Stacey shares the evolution of her career—from corporate law to newborn photography to building a service-based business that helps photographers create systems that actually support their lives.

Whether you’re feeling stuck in perfectionism, overwhelmed by admin, or just curious how to run your business with more ease and intention, Stacey’s story is packed with wisdom and practical reminders you don’t want to miss.

• Learn more about Stacey’s work and CRM setup services
• Follow Stacey on Instagram
• Check out Stacey Rolfe Photography
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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When things slow down or feel uncertain in your business, it’s easy to think you need to overhaul everything or spend your time hunting down new leads. But more often than not, the best opportunities are already sitting in front of you—specifically, in the form of your happiest clients.

In this episode, I’m sharing four tried-and-true strategies for turning one great client into more. These are simple, relationship-focused ways to bring people back in, get them talking about you, and build more consistency and sustainability into your schedule and revenue—without adding a bunch of marketing overwhelm to your plate.

We’ll cover:

• How to re-engage past clients with new or expanded offers
• A smart way to use client stories and testimonials that builds trust and drives bookings
• What it looks like to partner with clients to grow your network
• The membership model that keeps your best clients coming back, year after year

LINKS:

• Learn more about my course, Revenue on Repeat
• Explore all TCBTH resources
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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If you've ever felt a sinking feeling as you send in your taxes, wondering if you're missing something (or have just signed and avoided the numbers altogether), you're not alone.

That’s why I brought in Danielle Hayden, founder of Kickstart Accounting, to break down exactly what photographers should be doing year-round to stay on top of their numbers, avoid surprises, and maximize their tax deductions. The truth is, that managing your business finances doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, when you do it right, it actually helps you make more money.

And don’t worry—this isn’t a dry, accountant-speak episode. Danielle makes it practical, actionable, and yes, even empowering.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Why bookkeeping is NOT your job (and what your actual role should be as a business owner)
• The top tax deductions photographers miss (that could save you real money)
• How to avoid common QuickBooks mistakes that can cost you thousands
• What an accountable plan is and how it lowers your tax bill
• The biggest tax season myths and what really matters when it comes to financial health

I know taxes aren’t exactly fun, but this conversation will help you sleep better at night—not just during tax season, but all year long.

• Get Danielle’s Free Guide – Top 10 Tax Deductions for Photographers
• Listen to Danielle’s Podcast: Business By The Books
• Follow Danielle on Instagram
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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AI is everywhere right now, but let’s be real—most of us don’t have time to sort through all the noise to figure out which tools actually help photographers run their businesses better.

That’s why I called in Colie James. She’s a workflow automation expert, a photographer, and someone who has gone much further with AI than most of us (but in a way that makes running a business easier, not more complicated). In this episode, she’s breaking down how she’s using AI to speed up content creation, simplify marketing, and create custom automation that saves hours of time every week.

We’re talking about:

• How AI tools can help photographers streamline their marketing
• The best AI tools for content repurposing, SEO, and automation
• How to create a custom GPT that actually understands your business
• The power of AI-assisted blogging for getting found on Google
• The smart way to use AI without losing your personal voice

If you’ve been wondering how AI can actually work for photographers, this episode is full of actionable, real-world strategies to help you start using it today.

• Try Colie’s Custom GPT Workflow Magician
• Follow Colie on Instagram
• Listen to the Business First Creatives Podcast
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Photography may seem like a business with low legal risk, but if you don’t cover your bases, one unexpected issue—like a contract dispute, a tax audit, or an independent contractor misclassification—can cause major headaches.

Today, I’m talking with Braden Drake, a lawyer and tax expert who specializes in helping creative entrepreneurs actually understand business compliance, contracts, and financial protection. And trust me, this conversation is anything but boring. Braden makes legal and tax talk fun, digestible, and completely manageable, so you can finally stop avoiding these must-dos in your business.

In this episode, we’re breaking down:

• The five layers of legal protection every photographer should have in place
• What you really need to know about contracts, taxes, and business compliance
• The common legal mistakes photographers make (and how to avoid them)
• Whether your independent contractors should actually be employees
• Why a good contract is worth every penny—and where to get one without breaking the bank

If legal and tax stuff stresses you out, this episode will make you feel clear, confident, and ready to tackle the things that actually protect your business.

• Download Braden’s Free Legal Guide
• Join the Contract Club for Rock-Solid Legal Templates
• Get Braden’s Book: Unf*ck Your Biz
• Follow Braden on Instagram
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Most photographers assume that if they don’t shoot in a studio, they don’t need one. But what if a studio space could be so much more than just a backdrop for sessions?

In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Michelle McAfee, a photographer who turned her studio into so much more than just a place to shoot. She shares how she transitioned from using her space exclusively for client sessions to creating a studio membership model—one that serves other photographers and small business owners, boosts her marketing, and generates additional revenue.

We talk about:

• Why a studio space is more than just four walls—it’s a business growth tool
• How Michelle transformed her studio into a community hub for creatives
• Smart ways to monetize and maximize a studio beyond client work
• What to consider before renting or buying a studio space
• Creative marketing ideas for leveraging a studio to attract more clients

If you’ve ever considered opening a studio, renting one, or simply using a studio more effectively, this episode will open your eyes to all the possibilities.

• Download Michelle’s Free Guide – 10 Ways to Use a Studio for Brand Growth
• Follow Michelle on Instagram
• Learn More About Michelle’s Photography Business
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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If you’ve ever felt like your emails are going out into the void—ignored, unopened, or worse, unsubscribed from—this episode is just for you.

Email marketing doesn’t have to feel awkward or forced. In fact, when done right, it’s one of the most powerful ways to turn casual followers into loyal clients. But what actually makes an email engaging? How do you keep people excited to hear from you instead of clicking delete?

Today, I'm breaking it all down, with a fun analogy (of course!)

• How to get people to subscribe to your email list in the first place
• The secret to subject lines that actually get opened
• How to write emails that feel personal, not pushy
• The simple tweak at the end of every email that makes all the difference

If you want your emails to be the kind people look forward to (instead of ignoring), tune in!

Links:

• Join The Consistency Club for Done-For-You Email & Marketing Content

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Generating leads for your photography business can feel like a full-time job. You put yourself out there, cross your fingers, and hope the inquiries roll in—but what happens when they don’t? That’s where a smart, strategic approach to lead generation makes all the difference.

This week, I’m talking with photographer, business coach, and Gold Biz Podcast host Rachel Traxler about how she approaches lead generation intentionally—not just throwing things at the wall to see what sticks. Rachel breaks down how different types of buyers make decisions, why understanding that matters, and how to create marketing content that speaks to the right clients at the right time.

In this episode, we cover:

• The three different types of buyers and what actually gets them to book
• Why your leads might be dropping off—and how to fix it
• How to speed up the booking process (without feeling salesy)
• Rachel’s favorite ways to create a steady stream of inquiries

If you want to bring in more predictable leads—and convert more of them into paying clients—this episode is for you!

Links:

• Grab Rachel’s Free Training:10 FREE Lead Generation Strategies to grow your business effortlessly!
• Follow Rachel on Instagram
• Listen to The Gold Biz Podcast
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Most photographers spend their time marketing in all the usual (free) ways—posting on social media, tweaking their SEO, and waiting for word-of-mouth referrals to kick in. And while all of those can work, they also take time... oftena lot of it! But what if you could get your business in front of people right when they’re searching for a photographer?

That’s exactly what Google Ads do. Unlike social media ads that interrupt people mid-scroll, Google Ads only show up when someone is actively looking to book a photographer. And according to today’s guest, Lindsay Herkert, that small but powerful shift has completely transformed her business.

In this episode, Lindsay breaks down:

• Why Google Ads are so underused in the photography industry (and why that’s a huge advantage for you)
• How she spends just $300/month and books out her calendar with dream clients
• The 3-part system she uses to attract, convert, and keep clients coming back
• Simple changes to your website that make your ads way more effective

If you’ve ever wished for a way to bring in clients without constant hustling, this episode is a must-listen.

• Visit Lindsay's website and Google Ads resources
• Access Lindsay's mini course and guide for photographers
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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It’s easy to lose the creative spark that brought you to photography in the first place. Between running a business, keeping up with clients, and tackling your endless to-do list, the joy of making art can start to feel like a distant memory.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Trish Chong, an incredible family photographer, educator, and all-around thoughtful human being, to talk about the power of personal work in a creative business. For over a decade, Trish has kicked off each year with her “January Project”—a deeply personal tradition that melds photography and journaling. What started as a way to document her family has grown into a cornerstone of her creative practice, a magnet for aligned clients, and a powerful remedy for burnout.

Personal work like this can reignite your love for photography, give you a fresh perspective on your life and art, and even benefit your business in the process. Whether you're looking for a reset, battling burnout, or just want to feel inspired again, this conversation will remind you of the power of picking up your camera for you.

• Download Trish’s Personal Project Guide
• Visit Tea Lily Photography
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Considering switching to Simples Sales? What's better than a case study? How about three?

I'm excited to share this in-depth conversation with Robyn, AnneMarie, and Christina: three recent students who've launched Simple Sales in their three very different businesses.

We discuss:

• How and why each of them decided to give Simple Sales a try - what was (and wasn't) working in their businesses that gave them the push to seek a better solution
• Their fears and hesitations about the System
• Their experience with the Blueprint and the leadup to launching
• The Big Switch, including the reactions of both returning clients and new clients

And perhaps most importantly... their RESULTS:

• Robin turned her part-time pet photography business from a hobby into a profitable venture.
• Christina doubled her profit while setting boundaries and saving time for her family.
• Anne Marie scaled her family and newborn photography business to over $230,000 in revenue this year alone.

These women have been very generous, sharing their financial before and afters, as well as their plans going forward. If you're on the fence about whether Simple Sales might work for you, you're sure to see some version of your situation reflected here.

• Learn about Simple Sales
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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New Year, new mindset. 🥂 As we turn the page to 2025, it’s time to take stock of what’s been working in our businesses—and more importantly, what hasn't. In this episode, I’m sharing seven things you can leave behind to build a stronger, more sustainable businesses moving forward.

If you’ve been caught in the cycle of saying “yes” to too much, pricing yourself too low, or running yourself ragged, you’re not alone. We’ll explore how these common patterns take a toll—and, more importantly, how to break free. I’ll share practical tips for setting boundaries, streamlining your processes, and giving your business the respect it deserves. Because sustainability isn’t just about efficient systems—it’s about protecting your mental and emotional well-being too.

Tune in for an honest conversation about what it takes to start the new year on the right foot, and let’s make 2025 the year of a better, more balanced business.

• Ready to figure out how to make your business sustainable in 2025? Binge the Recipe for Success private podcast series.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Burnout. Overwhelm. Frustration. If you’re feeling the weight of running your photography business, you’re not alone. Lately, I’ve been hearing from so many photographers who are unsure if it’s even possible to keep going.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dayna—my partner in The Consistency Club and all-around champion of real talk—to tackle those big questions head-on. Where does the photography industry stand right now? Why are so many of us feeling stuck? And the biggest question of all: is quitting the answer?

From inquiries that don’t convert to the myth that no one wants to pay for quality photography anymore, we’re unpacking the challenges that can make running a business feel impossible and sharing strategies for tackling these obstacles, shifting your mindset, and building a business that feels sustainable and rewarding.

Whether you’re ready to pivot, push through, or pause and regroup, this episode is here to remind you that you’re not in this alone—and that the best days of your business might still be ahead.

• Listen to this episode The Six Levels of Freelance Life
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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It’s New Year’s Eve, and what better time to talk about setting yourself up for a successful (and sustainable!) new year? 🎉 In this final episode of the Sustainability Series (and the year!), I’m giving you a little taste of something I cooked up for you: a private podcast series called Recipe for Success.

Think of your business like a favorite recipe—some ingredients are non-negotiable, but others? You can totally swap, simplify, or even skip altogether. From outsourcing to batching to creating systems, we’re talking about all the ways you can work smarter, not harder.

Ready to dive in? Tune in to this episode, then grab the full private series at thiscantbethathard.com/sustainability to start your year off right. Here’s to less hustle and more joy in the year ahead! 🥂

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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In this third episode of the Sustainability Series, I’m diving into one of the biggest time and energy drains for photographers: marketing. Let’s face it—hunting for clients can feel like an endless Easter egg hunt. But what if, instead of searching for golden eggs, you focused on finding a golden goose?

In this episode, I share how I created a portrait membership that became my golden goose—a predictable, recurring revenue stream that reduced my marketing workload and made my business more sustainable. Whether it’s memberships, school portraits, or partnerships, the goal is to build systems that decrease your reliance on constant client-hunting and give you more time to focus on what matters most.

If you’re ready to spend less time chasing clients and more time building a business that supports your life, this episode will give you the inspiration and strategies to get started.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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In the second episode of my Sustainability Series, I’m sharing how a major “lifequake” forced me to rethink everything about my business. Back in 2017, I hit a breaking point—I was working 50-60 hours a week, juggling too many types of jobs, and still not making enough to feel secure. I knew something had to change.

That’s when I created what’s now known as the Simple Sales System. By streamlining my workflow and cutting out anything unnecessary, I was able to make more money in less time, all while delivering a better experience for my clients. In this episode, I walk you through how I did it, how Parkinson’s Law (the idea that work expands to fill the time you give it) was holding me back, and why adding creative constraints was the key to my success.

If you’re feeling like your business is running you instead of the other way around, this episode will show you how to take back control, free up your time, and create a more sustainable path forward.

Link:

• Learn more about The Simple Sales System

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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When life throws you curveballs—a health crisis, a financial downturn, or a global pandemic—how does your business hold up? In this week’s episode of This Can’t Be That Hard, I’m kicking off the Sustainability Series, a four-part exploration of why planning for longevity in your business is so important.

I start this series with a story about challenges I've faced in my own life and business that could have been the end of my photography career, but instead were the catalysts that forced me to build a stronger, more sustainable business.

If you’ve ever wondered how to “disaster-proof” your business or create systems that help you weather life's storms, this series is for you. This episode lays the foundation, reminding us that while we can’t control life’s twists and turns, we can prepare for them—and in doing so, we build businesses that thrive in the long run.

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Ah, the sweet smell of a brand-new planner—there’s just something about it, right? That fresh-start feeling gets me every time, and as it turns out, my guest Brittnie Sturm feels the same way. Brittnie is a family photographer, mom of three, and a fellow systems enthusiast 🤓 who’s learned firsthand how powerful organization can be in running a better business and a smoother life.

In this episode, she shares her journey from feeling completely overwhelmed to finding clarity through time blocking, routines, and building systems that actually work. She shares how getting organized isn’t just about checking off to-dos—it’s about creating space for the things that matter most, both in your business and your personal life. If you’ve ever felt like you’re drowning in the chaos, this conversation is full of ideas and encouragement to help you regain control and build a business (and life) you truly love.

• Grab your Planner and get organized.
• Download the Free Time Blocking PDF to master your schedule.
• Visit Brittnie’s website for more resources.
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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We’ve all been there: the to-do list feels endless, the deadlines are piling up, and the thought of getting it all done is just... laughable. Maddie Peschong knows the feeling, too. As a brand photographer, educator, and mom, Maddie has weathered her fair share of stressful seasons, and in this episode, she’s sharing how she finds her way back to balance.

Why does overwhelm feel so paralyzing? Maddie explains how naming the real source of your stress is often the first step to tackling it. She also shares the systems and mindset shifts that have helped her reset when life gets hectic. Whether you’re in the thick of it or trying to get ahead of it for next time, this conversation is a reminder that there’s always a way through—and sometimes, it starts with simply slowing down.

• Grab this guide for creative and essential shots to elevate your brand sessions.
• Take the Brand Photographer Quiz to discover your unique strengths as a brand photographer
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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I’ve taken my fair share of personality tests over the years, but none have resonated with me quite like the Enneagram. If you’re an Enneagram enthusiast, you might not be surprised to hear that I’m a Type 3 (The Achiever), and when I first read that description, I felt seen in a way that was almost embarrassing!

In today’s episode, I sit down with wedding photographer and Enneagram expert Ellie McKinney to explore how understanding our Enneagram types can impact not only our personal growth but also our business journeys. One of the reasons the Enneagram resonated so deeply with me is its focus on self-awareness and growth — tools that have been invaluable in building both my photography and education businesses. Together, Ellie & I discuss how the Enneagram can be a guide to playing to your strengths and understanding where you might get tripped up in your photography business.

If you’ve ever thought of the Enneagram as just another personality test, I encourage you to tune in with an open mind. Ellie provides so many insightful takeaways, whether you’re looking to better understand yourself, deepen your relationships, or improve how you approach your business.

• Follow Ellie for stunning photography and educational tips!
  • Instagram: Ellie Photography & Photography Business Education
• Visit Ellie's website
• Monthly Marketing Magic for Photographers: Get your first month of The Consistency Club for just $1

Resources:

• New to the podcast? Go to thiscantbethathard.com/welcome to get access to 3 of Annemie's best free resources.
• Join our community! We'd love to welcome you into our supportive, business-focused private Facebook group. Go to facebook.com/groups/thiscantbethathard to request access.
• Long-time listener? Leave a review!

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Being a photographer can sometimes feel isolating, especially when you’re working solo day in and day out. But knowing you have a supportive network of fellow creatives? That changes everything.

This week, I got to chat with Kim Box, the founder of The Motherhood Anthology. Kim has built a community that truly embodies the spirit of connection and openness I think so many of us are looking for. The Motherhood Anthology is more than just a place to learn—it’s a space where photographers come together, share real business advice, and lift each other up.

In a world that can sometimes feel cutthroat, Kim has managed to foster a culture of encouragement and trust, and that wasn't by accident. Join Kim and I as we discuss her journey, the inspiration behind The Motherhood Anthology, and why finding your own community might be the best thing you can do for your business.

• Dive into The Motherhood Anthology website
• Join the The Motherhood Anthology free Facebook group
• Join The Motherhood Anthology

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Have you ever made the mistake of going to the grocery store without a list—or at least a plan? We've all been there, right? And while we might manage to wing it in the produce section or snack aisle, we almost always end up forgetting something essential.

In the early days of my photography business, I actually ran things a bit like those haphazard grocery trips. Every morning, I’d jot down a list of to-dos from memory—relying solely on my brain to keep track of what needed to happen. On my good days, I could just about pull it off. But if one of my kids got sick or something threw me off my game, things would inevitably slip through the cracks.

I talk a lot about how systems transformed my business, but today I'm showing you how that doesn't need to be any more complicated than making a grocery list. If you feel like you're missing opportunities or constantly playing catch up, today's episode is a must-listen!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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A few weeks back, I put out the call for your photography-related horror stories... from silly mistakes to dealing with nightmarish clients, to just plain bad luck.

We've all been there. When you're a small business owner, things are bound to go wrong sometimes, and as much as we take our jobs seriously, there's also value in acknowledging the cringeworthy, mortifying, and downright bizarre situations that can come with running your own photography business!

Thanks to everyone who shared their stories to make this episode a real emotional roller coaster. I think you'll be impressed - as I was - at these photographers' ability to keep their cool, problem-solve on the fly, and even find the humor in their misfortunes. And the next time you find yourself in the midst of a photography crisis, hopefully, this episode will remind you to take a deep breath, problem-solve with creativity, and maybe even crack a smile (....and then share it on next year's podcast!)

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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In the never-ending battle to stand out from other photographers in your niche, you may have tried many different tacks - whether in your editing style, your locations, or your business model. But have you ever considered that the thing that could push you to the top of your ideal client's list might already be living in their home?

Over 66% of US families have a pet that they consider part of the family, and yet most family photographers don't specifically encourage pets in their sessions or feature pets in their marketing.

Today I'm talking with Monica Adalsteinsson, an Arizona-based pet and family photographer who specializes in blending family photography with pet photography. Tune in to hear practical tips for starting to include pets in your photography, as well as inspiration for how to use that new skill to market yourself in a brand new way.

Links:

• Visit Monica Adelsteinsson's website
• Learn how to photograph people and their pets
  • Use code "Annemie" for $50 off the Pup Plus Me Method course
• New around here? Grab 3 of my most popular free resources to build a profitable, sustainable photography business

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I’m all about sharing the mistakes I made in my business to help you avoid making the same ones…. and one of the biggest, most costly mistakes I've ever made was not bothering to create a sale at the holidays for the first 8 years of my business. When I do the math, I estimate that one mistake cost me north of $50K (it still hurts to write that number!)

If the word “sale” makes you cringe inside, then this episode is for you. There are plenty of reasons you can come up with to not run a holiday sale, but today I want to share 5 really compelling reasons why I think you should. Listen in with an open mind - I think you’ll be surprised at what you might learn!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Leah O'Connell has been a family photographer for over a decade, and her success has been a slow crescendo. In this era of streaming movies and Amazon Prime, we often expect everything to happen quickly, but most businesses - perhaps especially photography businesses - take a while to reach the point of sustainability... which is simply a part of the process!

Leah's story is a refreshing reminder that steady, intentional growth is often the key to long-term success. If you’re feeling stuck in your photography business - or simply frustrated by a lack of instant success - today's episode illustrates the power of patience, perseverance, and adaptability - qualities that I believe are essential for any photographer looking to create a thriving, long-term business.

Links:

• Visit Leah O'Connell's Website:
• Leah's Free Resources for Photographers, including her Big Picture Workbook
• Listen to Leah's Podcast: Photofuel
• New around here? Grab 3 of my most popular free resources to build a profitable, sustainable photography business

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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This week's episode is a bit of a departure, but I promise it’s worth the ride: I’m sharing the story of a new business venture my husband and I launched at the beginning of this year.

Think you might be able to guess what it is? I'd be pretty shocked if you did... this new enterprise is about as different from our work as photographers, Airbnb owners, and online educators as it's possible to be.

But as different as it is, it's still business! Tune in to hear about the challenges, the lessons, and the surprising overlaps we’ve discovered along the way, and why the experiences we have as entrepreneurs is relevant to ALL kinds of business—no matter the industry.

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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As photographers, we walk a fine line when it comes to client privacy. On one hand, we rely on being able to share session photos for marketing and growing our businesses. But on the other hand, a ever-growing number of clients are uncomfortable with their images being shared publicly. It's a tricky line to walk.

For years, I offered some baseline privacy to my clients, and anyone who required more could pay an extra fee. But recently, I realized this approach no longer felt right to me, so I went back to the drawing board and came up with a new privacy plan that puts the control firmly in my clients' hands. Today, I want to share the updates I've made so you can take a look at your own policies and see if they need a refresh as well.

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Failure is an inescapable fact of life and business, but how we respond to it is what defines the experience. Whether failure happens in your art, your business, or your personal life, learning how to navigate setbacks with grit and grace is a major stepping stone on the way to success.

This week's guest is Alison Hatch, who is sharing the difficult journey she experienced taking over the Photo Native conference. Navigating financial struggles, emotional hurdles, and the sting of failure, her story is a powerful reminder that these challenges are part of the growth process. Alison shares how taking big risks—despite the fear of failure—allowed her to grow both personally and professionally.

Failure is a natural part of business and personal growth. I hope Alison's story will encourage you to keep moving forward, take risks, and embrace the inevitability of failure as an essential part of success.

Links:

• Visit Alison's website: AlisonBHatchPhoto.com and sign up for Alison’s Film Soup Course
• Listen to Alison's podcast: Photographer's Create

Share your photography "nightmare" stories for a chance to be (anonymously!) featured on This Can't Be That Hard. Sharing is easy! Just go to thiscantbethathard.com/stories to record yours!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Starting a photography business was one of the biggest bets I ever made on myself — until I did it again post-divorce. Both of those crossroads were both terrifying and a bit exhilarating.

Today my conversation is with another photographer who has bet on herself in similar ways. Rebecca Honeycutt, is a lifestyle children's and family photographer in Portland, OR, and today she's sharing her inspiring story of betting on herself and building a thriving photography business, even when the odds seemed stacked against her. And as much as I appreciate a good dose of inspiration, what I love most about this conversation are the concrete steps Rebecca shares that helped her make those bets... including working with a financial planner and diversifying her offerings.

Links:

• Check out Rebecca's full portfolio for more inspiration: Rebecca's Website
• Grab your FREE guide now: Conscious Composition + Color Guide

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I frequently hear from photographers who are thinking of reducing their prices as a way of attracting more clients. While I understand their logic, my advice is always to proceed with caution: the (potential) short-term gain always has to be weighed against the (potential) hit to their business' long-term sustainability.

In today’s episode, I'm sharing a cautionary tale about a business that recently shut down due to their financial missteps. This was a business I relied on for my own business, and their sudden and unexpected closure left me and hundreds (thousands?) of other business owners in a tough position. My hope is that this episode creates a silver lining of sorts out of the dark cloud of this story, because I don't want any of you to make a similar mistake in your own business!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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In this episode, I'm diving in on the artistry of photography - a topic I don't often cover on this podcast... but not to worry: it doubles a business conversation, too! Ashley Kaplan is my guest, talking about how creating truly unique and memorable photographs can be a huge part of your business and marketing plans if you know how to position and sell that difference.

Ashley has mastered the skill of differentiating her work from her competition's... so much so that she is able to command higher prices and stay booked out months in advance. Tune in to learn how to lean into your inner artist to create a business that not only fills your bank account but also your artistic soul.

Links:

• Unlock your photography potential with Ashley Kaplan's Education site, where you can apply for mentorship or dive into her signature course, A Sense of Place.
• Explore more of her work and offerings on her main website.

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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As creatives, I think we tend to overcomplicate things (right!?), but I'm all about making it simple for you to run a profitable photography business, and sometimes the simplest way to do that is to make sure you are squeezing every last drop of value out of what you're already offering.

In that vein, today I'm sharing some strategic ways to maximize your sales opportunities and earn more from your photography business by implementing some tried and true sales and marketing strategies in a way you may not have considered before.

Links:

• Learn how to set up a membership program in your business with Revenue on Repeat

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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When I met Tiffany Crenshaw earlier this year, I knew I wanted to bring her on the podcast... and when she suggested a chat about not only the importance of showing diversity in your portfolio but also how exactly to go about making that a reality, I knew this episode was going to be a powerful one.

Tiffany is a lifestyle photographer in Alabama, and in our conversation, she highlights the reasons why showing people a representation of themselves in our work matters. She shares her personal experience as a Black photographer in a niche where that makes her stand out, and offers practical advice, like conducting intentional model calls and engaging with local cultural communities to build a more diverse client base for all photographers.

This episode really highlights the importance of intentionally stepping outside of our comfort zone to build a more inclusive businesses, and I'm grateful to Tiffany for her willingness to have this important discussion and share her insights with us.

Links:

• Grab Tiffany's guide to setting up diversity model calls
• Get 20% off one-on-one mentoring with Tiffany through the end of 2024 when you mention TCBTH!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I used to think I had a "black thumb" when it came to gardening, but back in 2020 when I had time to pay attention to my yard for the first time ever, I was surprised to discover that I had a bit more of a knack for it than I realized!

Maybe that's less surprising now that I look back and see all the parallels between growing a garden and running a thriving business. Many of the skills I've learned in my business - things like patience, perseverance, and being willing to experiment and adapt - are the same skills you need to be a successful gardener.

But one of the biggest lessons I've learned - both in business and in my back yard - is the value of having "perennials"; those repeat clients that come back year after year through a membership program. Instead of relying solely on one-time "annual" clients, a membership gives you that steady, predictable revenue stream, just like perennial plants that come back year after year and make your garden look beautiful with much less work. They take some upfront work to set up, but it can pay off big time in the long run.

So today I want to talk about how you can start thinking about your business like a garden, and consider how you can plant the seeds for more sustainable growth.

Links:

• Learn how to set up a membership program in your business with Revenue on Repeat

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Every photographer reaches a point in their business where they're ready for the floodgates to open. You flip the switch on the virtual "open for business" sign, take a deep breath, and hope that the clients rush in.

More often than not, though, we spend a good chunk of our businesses' early years (and sometimes later years) trying to find our people... and that process can be more frustrating than we care to admit.

Today I'm talking with Bobbi Barbarich about exactly how to figure out what it is that makes your art stand out in a crowded market, and (more importantly) how to translate that into a marketing strategy that converts.

Bobbi has over 15 years of experience in the industry, and she's developed a unique approach to marketing her business that goes beyond just showcasing the quality of her photos. She explains how she's focused on communicating the values and voice behind her work, which has allowed her to connect with her ideal clients and book them at higher prices. I can't wait for you to listen to this episode; it's a unique perspective on marketing that we've never covered on the show before, and it's sure to inspire you to do some fine-tuning of your own messaging.

Links:

• Bobbi's Education Website
• Bobbi's Documentary Mini-Course
  • Use code TCBTH15 to save 15% when you buy before Aug 15th, 2024
• Learn how to shoot better candids to book more clients.
• Follow Bobbi on Instagram
• Looking to make the most of the busy season this year? Grab your ticket for the Streamline Your Success Summit

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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There's a lot of talk in the photo community these days about inquiries being down, which inevitably leads to talk (and a whole lot of insecurity) about pricing.

The truth is, pricing may be a factor in the decreased inquiry equation... but it's only one factor. And the truth is that changing your prices without taking the time to evaluate the broader equation may do more harm than good.

If you've been considering a shift in your prices (or any other area of your business), today's episode is for you. I'm covering the 5 parts of the business equation, especially when there are fewer jobs to go around.

Link:

• Take the Business Alignment Quiz
• Looking to make the most of the busy season this year? Grab your ticket for the Streamline Your Success Summit

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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It's often when I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place I come up with my most brilliant ideas... and I know I'm not the only one. Pressure has a way of forcing us to think outside the box and get creative about solutions we might not have otherwise considered.

Paula Brennan, my guest today, likewise found a creative solution in a time of need, and it revolutionized her business. Paula is a personal brand photographer known for her creative (and wildly popular) approach to mini brand sessions. But these aren't your typical mini sessions: she's figured out a way to maximize her time and resources while also allowing her clients to participate in something bigger than just a "brand shoot."

Whatever your niche, Paula's ideas will get your creative juices flowing... my mind was spinning with the possibilities! Tune in to hear all the details on how she is able to supercharge her income with this smart strategy.

Links:

• Watch BTS of a full Mini Session at styled location as Paula captures 60+ sellable images in under 45 minutes, to learn how too can do the same!
• Looking to make the most of the busy season this year? Grab your ticket for the Streamline Your Success Summit

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Pricing is probably one of the hottest topics in the photography education space. As someone who feels so strongly about helping photographers price themselves profitably that I've made it a cornerstone of my education business, I am always excited to bring you a fresh take on pricing... and today's show is exactly that.

This episode features a guest appearance by Kristin Sweeting, who's sharing her insights on the psychology of pricing. She starts by acknowledging how emotional pricing can be, bringing up all sorts of insecurities and fears from our past and talks about how we can use an "anchor package" to expand what clients think is possible. This is one of Kristin's most popular episodes, and I thought it would be a good one to percolate on this time of year. Enjoy!

Links:

• Harvard Business Review elements of value pyramid
• Self-hypnosis app "Magnetic"
• Profit First book
• Ready to finally get consistent with your marketing? Join The Consistency Club for monthly made-for-you marketing delivered directly to your inbox

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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When I first started in this business, branding and online presence were not my strong suits. Over the years, though, I've come to realize how important it is to represent yourself well online... and after going through a massive website overhaul, I am even more attuned to how much work it takes to do that on a website!

Enter KP and Jessie from Inkpot Creative. Today on the show, they are sharing some of their favorite tips for injecting that hard-to-define "you" into your website. They cover everything from visual branding elements to building trust to storytelling tricks that can help potential clients feel like they know you before even getting on a call.

I know website updates can feel daunting, but these small tweaks can make a big difference, so get out your notepads, and let's dive in.

Links:

• Connect with KP and Jessie at their website - Ink Pot Creative
• Sign up for Strategy Sunday, Inkpot Creative®’s weekly email series that helps boundary-pushing creatives intentionally market to dreamy clients so easily it feels effortless.
• Follow Ink Pot Creative on Instagram
• Ready to finally get consistent with your marketing? Join The Consistency Club for monthly made-for-you marketing delivered directly to your inbox

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I consider myself a systems and workflow fanatic. Whether it's a system or a piece of tech, I geek out about tools that help us optimizing and streamline our workflows, not just because I've experienced firsthand how those tools can make or break you in business, but because it genuinely brings me joy to watch people get hours (days! weeks!!!) of their year back by investing in the few hours it takes to get a new set up and running.

That's what tools are supposed to do, after all: allow us to optimize our businesses, serve more clients, and at the same time find that elusive work-life balance we all want. And the tool we're discussing on the show today does EXACTLY that.

I'm chatting with Noella Andres from Imagen AI. Imagen AI is helping photographers find more freedom by doing the heavy lifting on culling and editing so we're free to focus on the areas that really matter when it comes to customer service and growth.

Links:

• Get 1500 Free Edits when you try out Imagen AI
• Connect with Noella on Instagram
• Check in with the Imagen.ai Instagram account.

Leave Annemie a message about this episode

• Feeling stuck? Join the Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your business from meh to magical.

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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This week, I'm branching out a bit from the strictly business talk to dive into the topic of unconscious programming. Specifically, how the thought patterns and beliefs we form as children can impact our creativity and businesses as adults, particularly around things like money and worthiness.

Renee Bowen is a photographer and mindset coach for creatives, and her area of expertise is helping her clients identify and move past the deep-seated beliefs that are blocking their paths to success.

I love Renee's practical approach to helping photographers work though their own mindset blocks, and I think you'll find her laid-back, grounded conversation inspirational and mind-opening.

Links:

• Website and Freebies
• SOCIALS: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube
• Podcast: https://renee.io/triedandtrue

Leave Annemie a message about this episode

• Ready to finally get consistent with your marketing? Join The Consistency Club for monthly made-for-you marketing delivered directly to your inbox

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Simple Sales turned four years old at the beginning of the year, and since it first landed on the scene back in 2020, thousands of portrait photographers have used it to run more profitable, sustainable businesses.

Today's episode is an interview with one such student, Mackenzie Romagni. MacKenzie signed up for the Simple Sales Blueprint last year and is on the show today to share both her experience with the course and the journey she's been on as she transitioned her business from all-inclusive to Simple Sales.

P.S. This episode was recorded several months ago as part of our ten-part mini-series on the system, which you can find by searching for "The Simple Sales System for Photographers" on YouTube or any podcast platform. We're sharing it here on the show ahead of the big updates we're introducing to the course later this month. If you've been considering the Blueprint, now's a fantastic time to get started!

Leave Annemie a message about this episode

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Everyone's journey as a photographer is different, and learning to trust the ride can be really difficult... especially in this age of social media, where comparisonitis runs rampant.

Today's guest is my long time friend Jessica Arden (I even shot her wedding!), who lovingly describes herself as a "hot mess success." Jessica's journey as a photographer has taken several turns, from weddings to families to newborns and now boudoir photography.

In this conversation, we talk about the importance of staying true to yourself, even when it looks different from what everyone else is doing, and how creating systems and workflows is key to creating a truly profitable photography business.

Links:

• Find Jessica's work at Jessica Arden Photography

Leave Annemie a message about this episode

• Feeling stuck? Join the Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your business from meh to magical.

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I recently read a quote by Seth Godin where he distinguished between long work and hard work, describing long work as routine, consistent effort without risk that most everyone makes, and hard work as the innovative, risky, and potentially transformative efforts that some people are willing to make.

Both have their place, but there is a point at which just putting in the hours without taking the leap might be holding us back.

This got me thinking about the evolution of a photography business and the concepts of broad work and deep work. In today's episode, I get into what that might look like in your business, and why taking the plunge and embracing deep work is worth the risk.

Links:

• Read Seth Godin's Blog Post

Leave Annemie a message about this episode

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Almost every photographer I know has a love/hate relationship with Instagram. On one hand, it provides a free and relatively easy way for us to showcase our work and reach new clients. On the other hand, the amount of time it takes to create enough content to stay on top of trends and the algorithm can be enough to send you over the deep end. But what if there was a way to hack the system?

Today, in a special episode, my partner from The Consistency Club, Dayna Schaaf, is interviewing Angela Shae from Social Templates Co, a company that offers a solution to this problem, with plug-and-play reel templates for photographers. Not only will Angela share how you can start creating high-quality reels in a fraction of the time, but she breaks down a system for capturing behind-the-scenes content, organizing that content and batch-creating reels to streamline your IG workflow.

If you are looking to up your Instagram game to reach new clients on social media, tune in to this inspiring episode.

Links:

• Try Social Templates for free for a month using code TCBTH
• Ready to finally get consistent with your marketing? Join The Consistency Club for monthly made-for-you marketing delivered directly to your inbox

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I wish I could wave a wand and help every photographer see their superpower - that one thing they do better than anyone else - so that they could use it to own their place in the market.

Since I'm (sadly) not a fairy godmother, I'm doing the next best thing by bringing on Casey Fatchett of The Nerdy Photographer. Casey and I geek out on marketing, SWOTs, and other tools you can use to take stock of your business, but I particularly loved his marketing superhero analogy... and I think you will too.

It can be hard to look objectively at your business, but Casey is sharing some great tips for how to figure out what sets you apart and how to use that to create a thriving business.

• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Remember that feeling of first love? That intoxicating, overwhelming feeling of being completely obsessed with that person, to the point where they were all you could think about day and night? Finding photography can be a lot like falling in love (and starting a business is like that first big commitment)... but after that initial spark fades, where do we land?

Today I'm talking about the 4 phases of your relationship with your photography business; from the initial spark, to the reality check, to the crisis moment, and finally the maturity and stability phase.

Each phase is important and has its ups and downs. So no matter which phase you're currently in with your photography business, I hope today's episode will resonate.

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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In the realm of marketing tools, your website reigns supreme, but navigating the sea of advice on its design can be daunting, to say the least.

That's why I'm thrilled to welcome Kelsey Christine, a web designer who focuses on serving photographers. Today, Kelsey will guide us through the dos, don'ts, and latest trends in website design for photographers. She'll offer practical insights for those looking to refresh their sites and introduce the concept of an "Experience Page," a strategic blend of testimonials, pricing, and more, all in one impactful space.

Whether you are looking to re-do your website now, or just want to get ideas for the future, this episode is full of practical advice and tips that you won't want to miss.

Links:

• Visit Kelsey Christine's website and Kelsey's Instagram
• Kelsey's free Experience Page guide
• Ready to finally get consistent with your marketing? Join The Consistency Club for monthly made-for-you marketing delivered directly to your inbox

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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It's no secret that I've automated and outsourced everything but the absolute necessities in my photography business, but it wasn't always that way. For the first 7 years of my business I did it ALL myself... and it nearly killed me.

When necessity forced me to change my approach, I hoped it wouldn't destroy the personal, high-touch brand I'd worked so hard to cultivate. Imagine my surprise when it not only improved my client's experience, but had a profoundly positive effect on my bottom line (not to mention my mental health and work/life harmony).

Today my guest is Rick Liston, who had a similar journey in his wedding photography business. He is sharing how the success he achieved through automation and delegation ultimately led him to start a parallel company that connects photographers with virtual assistants trained specifically to work in the photo industry.

Rick talks about how you can begin to recognize the tasks you can outsource, and how doing that will free you up to spend more time and energy focusing on higher-level tasks that will ultimately allow your business to grow.

Even if you don't think you're ready for a VA yet, I want to encourage you to tune in and visit Rick's website. You might be surprised at how affordable and effective hiring a VA can be!

Links:

• Visit Rick's website where he connects you with vetted and trained VA's specifically for portrait photographers. Use code TCBTH to get your first week free.
• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I have long believed that the intersection of your (multiple) talents is where the magic for your business lies. So many of us have skills that we could bring to the table, but often don't because we think they have nothing to do with photography - or that they will somehow water down our photography business. Amanda Dudzik turns that notion on its head.

In our chat today, Amanda shares how combining her talents in hair/makeup and photography has unlocked new success for her in both areas. Amanda was feeling burnt out doing generic family shoots until she started focusing on what she loves - working one-on-one with women. She now spends an hour prepping each client's look, and has found this bonding time leads to way more bookings.

Tune in to hear Amanda's story of finding her photography niche and get some ideas for how you can connect on a deeper level with your own ideal client. Maybe you'll even be inspired to take your business to the next level through a unique talent combination you haven't considered yet!

Links for this episode:

• Grab Amanda's free Beauty First-Aid Kit here
• Connect with Amanda via her website
• Follow Amanda Dudzik's Instagram
• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Every photographer has had the experience of dealing with an unhappy client (and if you haven't yet, you will at some point!). There's no two ways about it: that situation sucks, and will probably have you second-guessing yourself and your business.

Today I am talking with Rachel Utain-Evans about how to handle difficult conversations with unhappy clients while protecting your business and maintaining excellent customer service... all at the same time. Rachel shares invaluable insights from over a decade of experience on how to navigate these conversations from a place of transparency and confidence.

I want you to save this episode so you can come back to it the next time a client comes to you with a complaint; Rachel will give you the resources and confidence to handle whatever comes your way confidently and professionally!

• https://www.rachelutainevans.com/ - Rachel's website where she mentors photographers
• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Today I'm sharing a story I find pretty mortifying.

As a professional photographer, I have dedicated countless hours to not only organizing my clients' photos, but also preaching the importance of good backups and organization...

...and yet the shameful truth is that my own family's photos are mostly a jumbled, unedited mess.

Suffice it to say when I sat down to put together a slideshow for my son's 18th birthday, I was scrambling.

But my story has a happy ending, and it's all thanks to Pic-Time's new AI search feature... a feature I'd previously thought was only really applicable to wedding photographers.

Today I'm sharing not only how I used their tech to save my butt for this project, but more importantly how it opened my eyes to the ways that other family photographers could use this tool to both organize photos and create a better experience for their clients. We will touch on educating clients about the AI tool, how I plan to personalize client proposals and how I think offering searchable online galleries will provide huge value for clients long-term.

• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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When I find a way to work smarter, up-level my client experience, and stand out from the crowd - especially when the strategy is so easy to implement - the first place I want to share it is right here on the show!

Dayna's joining me to nerd out about not one but two new pieces of affordable tech that we've been using and loving, and that we think have the ability to uplevel your photography business in a big way: Convert Box and Manychat.

Not only will we share specific ideas for how to use these to capture more leads, convert more clients, streamline your workflows, and better your client experience, but we will also talk about the finer details of balancing the world of evolving technology with personalized touchpoints along the way.

• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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It's often hard for clients to have a clear vision about how they can or should display their photographs in their homes, so getting them to purchase products and larger print collections can be challenging.

Family photographer Sharisse Rohan is using customized digital wall mockups to overcome that hurdle with her clients and it's working brilliantly!

In this episode, Sharisse shares her exact process for building this into the Simple Sales framework, including how it has increased her product sales by a whopping 25% over the last few months!

• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Right about now, a lot of portrait photographers are crawling out of their slow-season dens and gearing up for the inquiries, sessions, editing, etc. that come with the change in weather.

Most of us spent the slower months optimizing our businesses behind the scenes - which is great! - but the transition from learning and planning to actually implementing can be a rough one. If you're not equipped with a plan, it's all too easy to slip right back to old habits you were trying to get past (I'm speaking from personal experience here).

Cue today's conversation with Sabrina Gebhardt. Sabrina is a master at helping photographers thoughtfully managing their time and gracefully grow their businesses alongside their daily lives.

We talk about how to successfully transition back into your busier seasons without losing all the work you've put in during the slower season. This episode will leave you feeling equipped and inspired to make it happen!

• mastermind waitlist: sabrinagebhardt.com/mastermind-waitlist
• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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One of the main things that can set you apart from your competition is the customer experience you provide. This isn't limited to how you handle issues when they arise, but includes the way your clients feel when they work with you - from the moment they reach out to inquire with you until the moment they write a review and each step in between.

Customer service will always be a cornerstone of your business, but the way you go about providing it will - and should! - evolve over the years as new technology becomes available and new expectations become the norm. Join me today to do some pondering on how we can continue to provide excellent customer service in our businesses in 2024 and beyond.

• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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An estimated 1 in 5 people fall on the neurodivergent spectrum, which means that you have probably worked with a client who is on that spectrum… even if you didn't know it at the time. As we all strive to give our clients an elevated experience, taking stock of how we can better accommodate all of our clients’ needs should be at the forefront of that conversation.

So this week, I'm talking with photographer Stacey Feasel who has years of experience working to improve the photography experience and provide accessible options for all people.

Stacy and I dive deep into how to better accommodate and work with neurodivergent clients, practical tips for gathering important information from clients beforehand, choosing photo locations and settings, and handling sessions with sensitivity. Whether you’ve already taken steps to make your business more accessible or want to improve your skills, this episode is full of valuable lessons to apply immediately.

• Episode 236 - with Rose McAvoy discussing a similar topic of neurodiversity within client families - https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/236-neurodivergence-and-inclusivity-in-photography/id1498142155?i=1000633183568
• Stacey Feasel's website with education resources for photographers - https://www.ndphotographyed.com/

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Most portrait photographers are accidental entrepreneurs - they're talented artists who wake up one day and think, "hey... maybe I could actually make some money doing this thing I love!" Fast forward a few years and the vast majority of those artists have closed up shop, not because they didn't have the talent, but because running a business - no matter how small - can be super-challenging.

If any of this resonates, you probably already know you are in the right place. I started this podcast years ago after I created a system that helped me build a profitable, sustainable photography business. That system - The Simple Sales System™️ - is now used by thousands of photographers worldwide to make more money in less time while still providing an amazing customer experience.

Today I'm sharing the first episode of a brand new, ten part podcast mini-series where we'll deep-dive the system, how it works, why it works, and who it works for.

Whether you're new to the podcast or have been using the Simple Sales System for years, I'm excited to share this new series with you... it's informative, fun, and - dare I say - even a bit entertaining!

Plug in your earbuds and get ready to binge the whole series on your favorite podcast platform!

• https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/simple

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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For a long time in my career, I shied away from the idea of affiliate marketing… and that's a decision I kick myself for now!

Most of us make recommendations every day without even thinking about it (read this book, check out this show, I love this shampoo, etc). Combine that with the fact that in creative businesses, we face inevitable ebbs and flows in revenue, and diversifying your income with affiliate marketing becomes a no-brainer!

Today, Dayna and I are diving into affiliate marketing, both as a broader concept and to introduce the re-launch of our own TCBTH affiliate program. Listen in to learn how making genuine recommendations about products you already know and love can earn you (significant!) passive income without a major time commitment.

• Sign up to be an affiliate for TCBTH - https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/affiliate

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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A photography business comes with a lot of flexibility; we can choose the hours or days we want to work, who we want to work with, and when or where we shoot. But one thing that we don't always have control over is change... and when a massive change occurs, it's basically like starting all over again.

Like it or not, many photographers face some at least one major change in their careers, whether due to change in circumstances, a major shift in the type of work they're doing, or a geographic move. And all of those changes come with some pretty intimidating hurdles.

Today, Alison Bell is joining me to share her expertise in relocating a photography business. Alison has moved her business 7 times due to her husband's career in the military, so she's become a pro at picking up and restarting her photography business.

She'll share her checklist for preparing to move as well as strategies for getting started in a new location. If you're planning a geographic move or any other big change, you won't want to miss this episode!

• https://alisonbellphotographer.com/ - Alisons Website
• https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/keep-it-moving/id1717336737 - Keep it moving podcast
• https://alisonbellphotographer.com/how-to-move-your-business - Alison's Moving Checklist

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Raise your hand if you’re the kind of person who agonizes over decisions. If you write long pro/con lists or take months to decide on the next move, I’m looking at you!

While that kind of thoughtful, contemplative approach is to be commended in many areas of life, in others, there's potential for getting stuck in analysis paralysis… and that can be deadly when it comes to business.

Instead, as scary as it sometimes is, I try to live by the philosophy that there are truly no "mistakes" in business… only lessons learned. Within responsible reason (no going broke, please!), as long as you learn and grow, risks lead to progress even when plans don't pan out. Staying stuck and fearing failure helps no one.

Instead, I want to encourage you to ask yourself "what's the worst that could happen?" when considering opportunities to push your business forward.

Let's get unstuck by abandoning the idea of mistakes and find the freedom that comes from accepting uncertainty and imperfect choices as normal parts of the learning process.

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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As wrap up the first month of the new year, it's the perfect time to dream big about our goals and aspirations. But how do we actually achieve those dreams?

Today I'm talking with Kristin Sweeting about her proven process for life and business design that has helped so many creatives go from dreaming to achieving. If you've ever found yourself saying "must be nice" about someone else's life (or business), then this episode is just for you; Kristin's perspective is going to turn that feeling on its head.

I hope you gain as much value from our conversation as I did in having Kristin on the show. Enjoy!

• Check out Danger School
• Catch up with Kristin on her Website!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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If you've ever felt intimidated by (or even mistrustful of) using flash during a portrait session, then this episode is for you.

My guest this week is Kim Hildebrand, a family photographer from Seattle who swears by using flash in her in-home shoots. We dive into the differences between flash and strobes, how to get started with flash on a budget, and how to make your flash photos look natural instead of overly-lit or "flashy". Kim shares great tips on gear, positioning, and practice. If you're interested in weather- and bad light-proofing your portrait offerings, this episode will give you the confidence to get started!

• Kim Hildebrand's website: www.kimhildebrand.com
• Kim's one light, many looks series: www.kimhildebrand.com/one-light-many-looks
• Kim's free flash guide: www.kimhildebrand.com/flash
• Information on Kim's upcoming lighting for lifestyle photography course: www.kimhildebrand.com/flash

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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It's the time of year when we all have stars in our eyes and big visions for the year ahead, but how to we take those visions and make them a reality?

Today I'm sharing my favorite method for actually achieving goals - first by identifying what you need to do to make daily progress and then by committing to taking small action every day. I know you've probably heard this advice before, but it bears repeating, because small daily habits can make a huge difference over 12 months. Let's all make 2024 the year that our resolutions become reality!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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The people you choose to surround yourself with have a profound impact on you - how you think, how you act, and ultimately, the results you get. The same is true in our businesses. Success in business requires not just strength of craft but strength of mind, and if we want to achieve that success, one of the best things we can do is surround ourselves with growth- and abundance-minded people.

As we flip the page into a new year, I want to spend some time talking about mindset... specifically how what and who we choose to surround ourselves with can (significantly) impact your results this year.

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Confession time: Do you avoid looking at your business's financial numbers until it's tax season and your accountant MAKES you do it? If you struggle with understanding the financial side of your photography business, you aren't alone. Budgeting and forecasting can be daunting tasks (especially to us creative types)!

Today I'm bringing you an incredible interview with Fractional CFO Danielle Hendon. Danielle walks us through her 6-part framework for understanding your business numbers. From balancing your books and tracking revenue and expenses, to building accurate budgets and cash flow forecasts, Danielle provides practical strategies to get control of your money. If you're looking to improve your income and grow your financial prowess next year, Danielle's step-by-step process for financial success will be a huge help!

• Grab Danielle's guide to prioritizing your profit and learn more about her services: https://4cornerscfo.com/

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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As the year winds down, you might be looking over your expenses from the year... and I'd be willing to bet there are some pieces of software or tech that you're considering getting rid of.

Now I'm all for keeping an eye on expenses, But before you unsubscribe or cancel that software, I want you to listen to today's episode.

The fact of the matter is that good technology - the kind that make tasks faster, easier, or totally automatic - is one of the easiest (and cheapest) ways to grow your business... you may just have to change your perspective a bit.

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Raise your hand if you've ever had a client ask to see their photos during a session... who hasn't!? Conventional wisdom tells us to encourage them to wait for the final, edited images before sharing, right? Well, today's guest is turning that advice on its head.

Liz Hansen runs a highly successful (read: 7-figure) boudoir photography business... and credits her success with sharing her photos immediately after her sessions! Today she's talking us through the business model that's working so well for her and sharing some really powerful business advice that applies no matter what your model is!

• https://milliondollar.studio/ Check out Liz's website and resources if you are looking to change to same-day sales.

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Standing out in the highly competitive world of photography can feel difficult or even impossible at times. Great photos feels like it SHOULD be enough, but it almost never is... so how can we market our businesses in a way that encourages people to book us on something OTHER than price?

The key is making your business impossible to compare to your competition. Today I want to talk about how you can figure out the special sauce only YOU can offer so that you can start focusing your marketing and finding those bluebird clients.

• https://paleontologista.com/ - The Punk Rock Paleontologist
• https://www.cheyennegil.com/ - Cheyenne Gil's Boudoir Photography
• https://www.theilenphoto.com/ - Matt and Tara Theilen Lake Tahoe Photography

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Today we are zooming way out to look at the big picture journey of running a creative business. My guest is Brian Hood, host of the Six Figure Creative podcast, and he is breaking down the six levels of freelancing -what it takes to move from one level to the next, and what pitfalls to avoid along the way.

Whether you're just starting out in photography or a seasoned pro, today's episode is going to give you some clarity about where you currently are in your business and what goals or steps you might want to set for yourself in the upcoming year.

LINKS:

• All the resources Brian mentioned in this episode can be found here

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Today we're talking about what you do when you have more business than you can handle.

Champagne problem? Maybe... but even if you're not there just yet, I want you to listen in... because this is a very real issue that EVERY photographer can benefit from!

Jill C. Smith is on the show talking about how she built an associate program in her family photography business. She has 3 associates in her very busy photography business, and has cracked the code on exactly how to find and train your team, then use it to grow your business. Today she’s taking us behind the scenes on her process (and how - if you're still in the growing phase - you can flip this strategy around to build your confidence and your portfolio)!

LINKS:

• Get Jill's Guide to Hiring Associate Photographers

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Working in a creative field comes with so many perks, but staying creative in the midst of the go-go-go busy season can be tough.

Between the frenetic pace of the holiday season and the pressures of the end of the year, this is often a time when our creative well can start to run dry... at least MINE does. Never fear! I've got a system (of course I do!) for pulling yourself out of your photo rut.

Tune in to hear how I keep my photos fresh all year long.

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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If you aren't familiar with LifeTouch, they are the ENORMOUS business responsible for most of the school portraits in the U.S. If you're based in America, chances are good that you've sat in front of a LifeTouch photographer at some point in your life... but the experience of buying photos from Lifetouch as a professional photographer and a mom has really put some things into perspective.

As some of you know, this is my son Oliver's senior year, and he recently went to get his yearbook photo done by a LifeTouch photographer, and today, I want to walk you through that experience.

You might not be surprised at what I discovered, but what I hope you take away from today is a sense of extreme confidence in the services we provide to our clients and the prices we charge for those services. As always, I'd love to hear your thoughts and your own experiences with school portraits in the Facebook group. Click the link below to join the convo.

LINKS:

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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On the list of ways we are constantly trying to improve our businesses, one thing that might get overlooked is building inclusivity and accessibility in our customer experience.

15% of the population identifies as neurodiverse and that number is growing every day. Today, Rose McAvoy is joining me on the podcast to share simple ways photographers can be more accommodating and accessible for our neurodiverse clients. (Side note: most of these benefit our neurotypical clients as well!)

A big thank you to Rose for bringing this topic to the podcast and for this important conversation - I know you all will have so many great takeaways from it.

LINKS:

• Follow Rose on Instagram
• Check out her website
• Download Rose's Inclusive Guide for Helping Kids Get Ready for Photos (it's so cute!)
• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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If you haven't figured this out by now, I really like technology that can streamline my workflow..... but I really L-O-V-E me some technology that can also make me stand out in the crowd and add a little wow to my client experience. Which is why I'm dedicating an entire episode to one of my favorite pieces of software: Loom. (#NotAnAd, just a huge fan!)

Today I'm outlining 4 specific strategies for incorporating Loom into your photography business that will not only help you save time, but also improve your SEO, boost your booking rates and make the communication part of your business a whole lot quicker and easier.

I hope you find some takeaways you can start applying asap - I can't wait to hear which of these strategies you want to incorporate first!

LINKS:

• Loom

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Whenever I poll photographers about what they need the most help with, the answer I get (by a factor of 10) is marketing. It seems everyone is always on the lookout for ways to stand out and get themselves in front of a bigger audience.

But what if I told you marketing isn't the only way to do that?

My guest today is Christina Lenkowski, a PR expert who specifically focuses on helping entrepreneurs and small business owners get featured on podcasts their ideal audience is listening to. And before you say you don't have anything interesting to talk about, I want you to listen to this episode! Christina is sharing unique ideas for how every small business owner can offer value to the right audience.... even you!

LINKS:

• The Podcast Publicity Quiz
• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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How many times have you heard, "The customer is always right?" But that's not always true (and can get downright toxic in the photography business).

Today I want to challenge some of the business advice we've all heard that I think may actually be harming your business. We all know how easy it is to get swayed by advice - especially when we're new or feeling unsure of ourselves - but I'm a big believer in listening to that inner voice when it's telling you something's off. My goal with this episode is to empower you to trust yourself and your process as a business owner.

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Unless you've been actively avoiding the internet, you've probably heard of ChatGPT and other AI tools that are (at time, controversially) becoming more mainstream.

Since AI is probably here to stay, I wanted to bring on SEO expert Sarah Landa to talk about how photographers can utilize AI tools like ChatGPT to improve their SEO and content creation strategies. Sarah shares her experience warming up to AI after initially being skeptical and outlines some responsible ways photographers can leverage AI to generate blog post ideas, summaries, keyword research and more.

Whether you're new to AI or want to refine your process, you'll come away with actionable strategies for using these tools to boost your photography business.

LINKS:

• Sarah's Resources for Photographers
• Follow Sarah on Instagram
• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I often hear from photographers that they feel awkward asking for a sale. It's a common struggle but one we have to work through in order to be successful business owners.

Today's episode is short and sweet - but it's super important. When you're done listening, I hope you'll be reminded and feel reassured that you ARE delivering real value through your work... and you should feel comfortable making offers to clients openly and honestly without apologizing!

Cameo by Allison Patel - thank you Allison!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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You know that feeling when you get crickets after delivering a gallery? Or even worse, when you get the "we need to talk" email from a client? GULP. Moments like those (while hopefully infrequent) can feel like a 10-alarm fire scenario... and knowing how to handle them can make or break your future relationship with that client.

So I brought in an emergency expert to help us. With over 20 years as a 911 dispatcher, photographer Melody MacDonald is sharing some invaluable insights into effective communication strategies when dealing with difficult or emotional client situations. Melody talks about the power of active listening: how you can remain calm and non-judgmental when managing a client crisis, and how that can go a long way to preventing escalation.

I really love her advice about self-reflection, slowing responses, and not venting on social media before thinking critically about an issue. It's advice I'll be taking into both my business and personal life (read: #teenagers)! This is definitely an episode to take to heart ... and bookmark for the next time you are in a situation like this.

Links:

• Follow Melody on Instagram
• Join The Business Plan Glow Up; a self-paced, 5-part workshop designed to take your photography business from meh to magical!

Resources:

• Listen to the Simple Sales Limited Series Podcast where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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One incredibly effective way to promote your photography business is through charitable marketing. Not only can you get connected with potential bluebird clients, but you get to give back to causes you care about at the same time. However, if you don’t have a solid, well-thought-out plan for your charitable marketing, it can be an enormous effort with little to no payoff.

My guest today is Nicole Begley from Hair of the Dog Academy, who has been successfully leveraging charitable marketing to grow her pet photography business for the last 10+ years. She’s sharing the top 3 strategies she uses regularly, along with tips on how to effectively implement these strategies, such as choosing the right charities to work with, setting clear expectations, and having a solid sales and fulfillment process in place.

If charitable marketing is on your to-do list, get out your notebook... this is an episode you’ll want to listen to twice.

Links:

• Sign up for the Pet Photography Summit, Sept. 26 & 27, 2023
• Learn from Nicole at The Hair of the Dog Academy
• Follow Nicole on Instagram
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Regardless of where you live and what kind of clientele you serve, the coming season is likely one marked by shifting schedules and higher-than-normal demands on everyone’s time.

The good news is that it’s also a time of year when the demand for photos is at its peak in most circles.

Your job this month is to connect those dots: acknowledge that your clients have a lot to juggle and that they probably feel like their own needs often come last (or close to it). Then reassure them that working with you will not only be easy but actually relieve stress and/or reward them with the joy and satisfaction of new photos.

Don’t forget, even if you’re already booked up for the season ahead, be sure to keep on top of your marketing (and if you haven’t listened to Episode 226 of the podcast, be sure to check that out - Jaye McLaughlin shared a great strategy for hanging onto leads that come in after you’ve filled all your spots for the busy season).

If you’re on the other side of the coin and feeling nervous about a too-empty calendar, keep the faith! Episode 227 of the podcast will give you some strategies (as will the 5-day Business Plan Glow-Up).

Either way, I hope this month’s templates make it easy to stay consistent with your marketing!

• Grab your ticket for the 5-Day Business Plan Glow-Up
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Today’s show is like that first crisp fall day - cozy, nostalgic and full of inspiration. Jude Charles is an author and filmmaker who has produced stories for companies like Google and Steve Harvey... but Jude started out like a lot of us do: with a camera, a passion, and a desire to succeed.

As visual artists and storytellers, Jude reminds us about the importance of what he calls “roadmapping” for clients - understanding their needs, creating a vision, and learning how to quickly and authentically build trust and connection.

Pour yourself a cup of coffee (or tea!) and settle in for an uplifting conversation.

Links:

• Check out Jude's work on his website
• Join The Dramatic Leverage Newsletter
• Follow Jude on Instagram
• Grab your ticket for the 5-Day Business Plan Glow-Up
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Most photographers I know have had a tough year so far… I’m not sure whether it’s the post-covid bounce or the economy or something else, but inquiries and bookings have been down… pretty much across the board.

The good news is that things look like they’re finally turning a corner, but if you are one of the people who have been feeling the strain in 2023, today’s conversation with Briana Tresko is going to hit home.

Briana bravely said yes to coming on the show to talk about some ideas for what to do when you are hearing a lot of “let me get back to you’s” from your inquiries, without shooting your whole business plan in the foot. 

Links: 

• Connect with Brianna on her website
• Follow Brianna on Instagram @brianacphotography
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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If you are at a place in your photography business where the busy season means you're fully booked, you know how crushing it is when you have to turn people away.

This week my guest is the brilliant Jaye McLaughlin, a family photographer in the New York metro area sharing her GENIUS strategy for managing the high client demand during the busy season - without having to turn anyone away! Jaye's been using this strategy for nine seasons straight, so she takes us through the core principles behind it, the ways it's evolved over the years, and the critical do's and don'ts to keep in mind so you can apply this in your business immediately!

Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting, Jaye's insights are bound to leave you inspired and full of ideas. Grab your notepad and let's get started!

Links:

• Check out Jaye's website
• Connect with Jaye on Instagram: @JayeMcL
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Your website is arguably the most valuable marketing tool you have as a photographer. From the moment a potential client lands on your site until they click the button to connect with you, your website is doing all the work of attracting and connecting you to that client. 

That’s a pretty big job, so in this episode, I want to walk you through a quick audit of your home page to make sure it’s in tip-top shape. I’ll dive into 6 key feelings your website homepage needs to evoke that will help lead prospective clients from curious to connection. Get out those notebooks and get ready to polish up your homepage!

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Last year my friend Erin Brown brought the term “purposely part-time” to the podcast, and the response was absolutely overwhelming. It turns out that many photographers are intentionally part-time in their businesses - for reasons ranging from other careers they don't want to give up to being home with their families after school - so that phrase has caught fire!

Today I’m speaking with Lydia Fine - another purposely part-time photographer - about how she balances everything from mom life, to corporate life, to wife life, to photography life. Sometimes, what we need to hear is that we aren’t alone, so if you're purposely part-time and feeling judgment or pressure around the goals you have for your career, I hope you find comfort and a few great tips in this episode!

Links:

• Check out Lydia's work on her website
• Connect with Lydia on Instagram : @lydia_apolloandivy
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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We are all being bombarded with sales pitches nearly every waking hour. As a matter of survival, our brains have become very good at saying "oh that sounds interesting... I'll get to it later."

Without a compelling, time- or scarcity-based call to action, we tend to put off non-essential decision-making - including the decision to book a photographer - even if those decisions involve something we genuinely want.

To sum this month's lesson up in a single sentence, creating urgency is good; abusing it is bad.

Most photographers I know are so worried about coming across as pushy or manipulative that they miss out on one of the most powerful strategies to increase conversions.

But leveraging sales psychology doesn't have to be manipulative. As long as you are honest about the parameters of your offers and use them sparingly, they can give the people who want to hire you anyway the permission/kick in the pants that they need to do so today rather than tomorrow.

This month, we're going to explore different ways to encourage your followers and subscribers to "act now," (but maybe without using that "act now" phrase, which most of us associate with late-night infomercials).

Learn more about Revenue on Repeat at thiscantbethathard.com/revenue

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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If you’ve ever considered a photography mastermind group, you know that once you dip your toe in that water it can get overwhelming pretty quickly. How do you know which group is the right fit? What questions should you ask? What goals should you set? What results can you expect? The list goes on...

Today I am talking with Elena S. Blair who has been a leader in the group coaching space for quite some time now. Tune in to hear the reasons she believes mastermind groups can be so transformative for photographers, and her best recommendations for finding the right group for you.

Links: 

• Learn more and get on the waitlist at ElenaSBlair.com
• Follow on Instagram: @ElenaSBlair_Photography

Learn more about Revenue on Repeat at thiscantbethathard.com/revenue

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Talking about the importance of pricing and sustainability is my jam, but I typically approach it from the "this is why it's important for YOU" perspective. The fact of the matter is that when enough photographers aren’t charging sustainable prices, it has major implications for the industry as a whole.

Today's guest is Bonnie Singular. She’s a newborn and family photographer in Nebraska and the founder of Happily Ever Photo, a photographer directory where prospective clients can go to find their dream photographer. Bonnie brings a fascinating perspective on the photography industry as a whole and shares why it's so important that we value what we do, educate ourselves (and our clients), and most importantly, charge profitable rates.

Links:

• Get listed on Happily Ever Photo
• Connect with Bonnie on Instagram
• Check out Bonnie's work at Genesis Photo
• Read her blog post about pricing (4 Reasons Your Photographer Can’t Pay Their Bills and 3 Ways We Can Fix That)
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Ever wish you could peek inside your clients' heads and hear what they're thinking? Yeah, me too. Which is why I (finally!) decided to interview one of my own long-time photography clients about her experience as a client, and specifically her thoughts about my membership program.

We (necessarily) spend so much time thinking about photography from our own perspective that it can be hard to put ourselves in our client's shoes. But if we want to be great at providing services our clients want, we should pay attention to what they need. Which is why I am so excited for this episode! I don't know why it took me over 200 episodes to bring one of my photography clients on the show, but it was definitely worth the wait!

Links:

• Interested in creating a Membership program in your business? Check out Revenue on Repeat for a templated, step-by-step guide.
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Mind: blown... there are now a thousand Simple Sales Blueprint students out there in the world! When I first launched the Blueprint back in January 2020, I had no idea whether anyone would be interested in my system, but in just three short years, Simple Sales has taken root and spread like wildfire in the photography world.

As my education business has grown, I've gotten more and more questions about how I made that leap. Today felt like a good time to pull back to the curtain on that journey, and talk about the similarities and differences between running an education business vs. a photography business.

I got into education because I felt like I had a lot of good insights about running a business, but no doubt: this new chapter has taught me even more. I think today's episode is valuable even if you're not interested in getting into education, but if you are, you won't want to miss it.

Links:

• Anatomy of a Breakthrough by Adam Alter
• Sign up for the Zoom call on 7/26/23 to learn more about creating an online education course for photographers
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I started my photography business when my two kids were young, and in many ways, the business felt like having a third child. Just like having young kids, having a young business can feel pretty chaotic, and in both scenarios, when you're in it, it can be hard to believe you'll ever escape the chaos. But the chaos can and does end.

Today I want to talk about a major but un-talked-about milestone in the "life" of a young business: achieving stability. I'm covering what it takes to get there, and why you should use it to set your goals and priorities in those all-important early years.

Links: 

• Revenue on Repeat
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Brene Brown (who - I'm certain - needs no introduction), says:

"I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment."

There's no more potent marketing juice than a prospective client who feels connected to you. If someone is randomly Googling around to find a photographer and reaches out to you and three others to compare pricing, you've got a far bigger hill to climb to book them than you would with the person who's been following you and reading your emails for months, thinking "I just KNOW we'd be friends in real life."

But how do we connect with strangers on the internet? How do we intentionally cultivate that sense of belonging among our readers/ followers without being manipulative?

If we go back to Brene's quote above, how do we make people feel seen, heard and valued?

How do we make them feel like they're in a judgment-free zone?

Generally, in the anonymous online world, the best way to do that is to show up honestly, which includes both the good and the bad. The trick is finding the balance... which is what this month's Consistency Club is all about.

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Typically on this podcast, I deep dive on one topic per episode, sometimes with a guest and sometimes solo. But as we head into road trip season, I wanted to shake it up and give you something exciting and different to enjoy the next time you've got some extra time in the car (or on a walk or wherever else you listen to your podcasts)!

For today's show, I reached out to a handful of my favorite photography podcasters and asked them to share their #1 business tips - and the response was amazing! Seven incredible podcasters jumped in with their best knowledge bombs to make this episode one-of-a-kind.

You'll hear about everything from finances to SEO, mindset to time management, and more... Even better, each of these tips come with a freebie you can download, so be sure to check the notes and grab each one!

No matter where you are in your business, I'm confident you'll find something of value here today... including some new shows to add to your feed!

Links:

• Andrew's Freebie: How to Book More Portrait Clients http://bookmoreportraits.com/
• Colie's Freebie: How to Optimize Your Offer https://coliejames.com/roadtrip
• Daniel's Freebie: Finance Focus Steps focusedphotographers.com/ff
• Lisa's Freebie: The Yearly Planner www.themilkyway.ca/yearlyplanner
• Natalie's Freebie: 8 Things To Grow Your Photography Business https://photobusinesshelp.com/8things
• Sabrina's Freebie: 9 Steps to Set Yourself up for Success www.sabrinagebhardt.com/blueprint
• Annemie's Freebie: The Guide to Phone Call Magic thiscantbethathard.com/roadtrip
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Want to increase your booking rate? Consider making it easier for your clients to say YES.

I know that seems like a simple answer to a big problem, but the truth is that far too often, we overcomplicate the sales process, and when customers experience too many speed bumps in that process, we lose clients. 

Today I want to dive into what those speed bumps look like, because they can be sneaky! We'll talk about the small but significant issues that might be creating friction for your potential clients, and how can you smooth the road as much as possible so you can increase the percentage of new inquiries who say "Yes!" 

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Raise your hand if you'd like more publicity. 

I don’t know a single photographer who wouldn’t like a feature in a magazine or local news outlet to give them credibility and visibility. The million-dollar question is, how do you get yourself there?

PR coach Gloria Chou is back on the show today to give you some simple but effective ideas for pitching yourself to publications in your area that are actually desperately looking for quality stories to share about real people. 

Get your thinking cap on for this episode - it could just spark your next great idea. 

Take the Admissions Assessment to enroll in This Can't Be That Hard University for free!

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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They say that time is money, but too many photographers take that far too literally, justifying their prices by pointing to how much time it requires (not to mention how much time it's taken them to learn their craft). 

I'm not saying time has no relationship with price, but the truth is that pricing art is much more complicated than - say - charging an hourly rate to clean someone's house or help them move. 

Today we're talking about the nuances of pricing psychology as it relates to time: 

• How should the time a job takes impact the price of the job?
• When does time add to the value of the service you provide?, and - most importantly -
• Is your own psychology about time and money keeping you from earning more in your business?

Links: 

• Check out Gloria's PR Secret's Masterclass
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I got a message last month from a Consistency Club member who was feeling discouraged:

"I feel like I continue to ask for feedback, replies, input, a whisper of hello to know anyone's out there, and I get bupkis in return. Is that normal? Just putting out email after email and never getting any kind of response? It sounds like other people are getting all kinds of replies so maybe it's not normal."

And it occurred to me: I've been happily sharing the wins we've heard about, but maybe I should also share the marketing struggles.

Because yes: it is ABSOLUTELY normal to feel like you're shouting into the void. My email list for This Can't Be That Hard is close to 10K people with a 50% average open rate, but when I ask a question? MAYBE a few people reply.

I know that can feel discouraging, but I encourage you to keep showing up because likes on IG and replies in your inbox - while nice - aren't the real reason for your marketing efforts... and not getting them doesn't mean your marketing is not working.

This month, we're going to walk you through making an offer to your audience, because ultimately, the whole reason for marketing is sales. I've got my fingers crossed for every one of you that even if your marketing feels futile, you get a solid win this month that puts fuel back in your tank.

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Marketing your photography business can feel a lot like dating - you put yourself out there, write some cute content, and hope that the people you want to attract swipe right. On top of that, between algorithms, 3-second attention spans, and AI technology, it can feel darn near impossible to connect authentically with potential clients online. 

Brooke Jefferson is an expert at cutting through the noise and helping photographers connect with more of their ideal clients. Today she joins me to share some excellent advice on connecting with high-quality clients to grow your photography business. 

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I'm sure you’ve heard the saying "perfection is the enemy of progress," and today I'm sharing a story about how that can play out in real life. 

Sometimes we get so stuck in our ways - or so attached to doing things a certain way - that we end up with blinders on, stifling our creativity and limiting ourselves in business. Today's story illustrates how freeing ourselves up to be less than perfect can actually make us better - at art, and in business.

If you need a little nudge to try out that idea you’ve been sitting on, this episode might be exactly what you need. 

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I spend a lot of time on this show highlighting other photographers' greatest successes, brilliant ideas, and ah-ha moments, but we all know that with the ups come the downs.

But the downs don’t usually get a lot of audio time, right? Mostly because we’d all like to forget our worst moments... but when we're IN our worst moments, sometimes it's nice to know we're not alone!

This week, I've got a misery-loves-company-fueled show where I'm sharing one of my own horror stories, along with the biggest flops, failures, or freak-outs that some of my photographer friends were willing to share... and these do NOT disappoint!

This is a fun one - you’ll probably laugh out loud at least once, and there are lots of good lessons to be learned here - so enjoy!

A Very Special Thanks to the following photographers for sharing these stories:

@ashley_kaplan_photography
@brookebraggerphotography
@emmalaine Berry
@erinbrownphotos
@jayemcl
@jesskoehlerphoto
@jillcarmelphoto
@yellowroomphoto
@lindsaystephanyphoto
@meredithszinnerphotography
@rachelsimpsonweddings
@rosemcavoyphotography
@shalimar_b_photography

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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When I stumbled across Alison Amick Brett's Little Llamas Portrait concept earlier this year, I immediately wanted to share it on the podcast.

Alison is a Florida-based family photographer who wanted to reinvent mini-sessions in a way that combined them with playdates …. and Little Llamas Portraits was born!

Little Llamas has been so successful that Alison is now fielding requests from other photographers around the country who want to essentially franchise her concept to put this system into place in their areas... a win/win if I’ve ever heard of one!

Alison’s spilling all the details in today’s episode, but whether or not you're interested in playdate minis specifically, this is a great episode... her outside-the-box creative thinking is super-inspirational!

Links:

• Learn more about Little Llamas Portraits for photographers
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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We've said it before and we'll say it again: Marketing is a long game, and this month's lesson is all about leaning into that: recognizing that your audience will need to "meet" you 7 or 12 or maybe even 20 times before they're ready to hand over their credit card, but that if you keep the faith and keep showing up - consistently - that those bookings will eventually happen.

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Last week we covered the three systems that every photographer needs in their business. (If you haven’t listened to last week's episode, I recommend you go back and start there first!)

Today I’m diving into the 3 biggest mistakes that photographers make when they set up those systems, how you can avoid them, and - most importantly - how you can optimize your system setups to help your business and customer experience run more effectively.

Want to see my systems map? It lives inside the “Streamline Department” at This Can’t Be That Hard University. To enroll (for free!), fill out the admissions assessment at thiscantbethathard.com/free

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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If someone asked you to quickly and clearly sketch out how your business works on the back of a napkin, could you do it? 

As soloprenuers, we wear so many hats that it’s easy to lose sight of the big picture. But stepping back periodically is critical to make sure all that effort is serving you. 

Today, I’m kicking off this two-part episode by sharing the three systems every photographer needs for a functional business, then next week, we’ll dive into the most common mistakes and issues I see in those systems. 

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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If you're a family photographer struggling to fill your calendar with ideal clients, you're going to want a notebook for this one.

(No, seriously. I’ll wait. Go get one.)

Daisy Zimmer is my guest today, and she's sharing a genius idea she came up with to reach new clients at a higher price point when she redesigned her business and switched to Simple Sales. Wanting to avoid the common pitfalls of model calls and inspired by the ambassador programs a lot of senior photographers run, Daisy launched a Family Ambassador Program, and today she's breaking down the entire process on the show.

Spoiler: it was tremendously successful, both in terms of marketing her business and in building relationships with her Ambassador families. If you're looking for a solid plan to expand your business reach, then grab that notebook and join us!

Links:

• Find Daisy on Instagram @DaisyZimmerPhoto
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Even though I meet so many different types of people working in photography, one thing I think we all have in common is our artistic souls. That little part of us that gets excited and inspired by many different things all the time. Right?

On one hand, following every little idea you have can be problematic. You can spread yourself too thin, or become a jack of all trades (and a master of none).

But on the other hand, following some of your different passions and ideas can be a really excellent way to not only satisfy your creative brain but also diversify your income and protect yourself from the inevitable ebbs and flows of small business.

Today I’m talking with Nikki Closser, a personal branding photographer who has branched out into many different income streams (some closely related to photography and others less so). Her path has been anything but traditional, and I think this conversation will leave you bubbling over with ideas for how you might want to expand your business life as well.

Links:

• Find resources on Nikki's Website
• Follow Nikki on IG
• Check out her Property Investment Company
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Welcome to the Consistency Club, a monthly bonus feature of the podcast dedicated entirely to marketing your photography business.

This month Annemie and Dayna talk about the power of finding your smallest viable market - and how, when you learn to speak directly to them, your marketing really starts to shine. 

Don't forget! These episodes expire, so be sure you're subscribed to the podcast so you never miss an episode.

Links: 

• Purchase access to this month's templates or subscribe to get early access and special savings: www.thiscantbethathard.com/club
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Tell me if this sounds familiar: you write a to-do list for the day with the best intentions to make big strides on the project you are working on, only to blink and find that it's dinner time and you've only really accomplished a few menial tasks. Sigh. 

As the queen of procrasta-working (trademark pending), I've developed a strategy for myself that helps me focus my energy, accomplish the most important tasks each day and stay on track with my goals. If you struggle with this too, then today's episode is just for you my friend!

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Building a photography business is in itself a work of art and creativity - no two businesses look exactly the same. What I love about that is that it means we can all build our businesses to fit our lives. On the flip side, not having a clearcut path can make it difficult to strategize and grow.

Elin Arganun is a new-ish photographer. She's been in business for just over a year now, but her story is somewhat unusual in that she came into the business of photography from a business background and with a ton of research about how she wanted to run her photography business under her belt.

Today she's joining me to talk about how she set her business to be profitable from the start, and how that helped her avoid some of the growing pains new business owners often feel. I love Elin's story because while it's inspirational, it's also incredibly grounded and relatable. If you're in need of a good dose of motivation and encouragement, this episode will be the pixie dust you are looking for.

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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If time is money (as the saying goes), then automation and outsourcing should be your two best friends. On the other hand, what often sets us apart in our small businesses are our personal touches and customer service, so many photographers (understandably) struggle to find a balance between personalization and profitability.

Longtime listeners know that I'm a big fan of automating my workflow and outsourcing work where possible, but I balance that with personal touches that my ideal customers appreciate. Today I'm taking you behind the scenes of my own photography business to share exactly what I outsource and automate, and why. Then, I'll help you find a formula for figuring out what you can streamline in your business without sacrificing the things that make your business special. 

Links 

• Check out Colie James for all your Dubsado needs
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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When most of us think of school portraits we think about those awkwardly-posed artifacts of our youth, complete with plastered-on smiles and fake-laser backgrounds. And as a photographer, those are probably not the kind of photos that inspired you to get into business, right?

Fine art school photography is gaining traction as an alternative to those cheesy school portraits, and Lindsay Turner is one of the lifestyle family photographers who has added it to her repertoire with great success. Today she joins me to talk about how and why she made that decision, the logistics behind it, and how in just 2 years it has grown to account for over 40% of her yearly revenue.

If you are looking to grow your photography business, this episode just might inspire you to go-back-to-school and do just that.

Links:

• Download Lindsey's School Prompt Ideas
• Follow Lindsey on Instagram
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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When I think about what really helped me gain traction and success in my photography business, it wasn't any one program, tool, or even system. At the end of the day, what really helped me go from hobbyist to business owner was the willingness to bet on myself, over and over... even when it felt scary.

Confidence (not to be confused with arrogance or irresponsible decision-making) is the unsung hero of small businesses, and it's something that a lot of artists - particularly female artists - struggle with. Today I'm chatting with my good friend Sabrina Gebhardt about why confidence is so important and how to cultivate it in your own business.

Links:

• Get on the waitlist for Sabrina's next Mastermind Group
• Join The Round Table membership group
• Find Sabrina on Instagram
• Listen to Sabrina's podcast

Subscribe to the Consistency Club at thiscantbethathard.com/club

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Welcome to the Consistency Club, a monthly bonus feature of the podcast dedicated entirely to marketing your photography business.

This month Annemie and Dayna dive into the psychology of marketing to talk about the importance of showing vs. telling and how you can utilize your best clients' stories to attract new clients.

Don't forget! These episodes expire, so be sure you're subscribed to the podcast so you never miss an episode.

Links: 

• Purchase access to this month's templates or subscribe to get early access and special savings: www.thiscantbethathard.com/club
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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If you've ever heard of the 100 Days of Light Challenge, then you know today's guest, Caro Cuinet Wellings. Caro started this challenge 7 years ago, and in that time, it has become a worldwide phenomenon.

Caro's a source of constant inspiration to me as both an artist and a businesswoman, and I think the artist in you is going to sincerely enjoy this conversation about photography, art, publishing, and the human connection we find across continents and languages while pursuing similar goals.

Links:

• Listen to TCBTH's first episode with Caro (#27 - Fixed vs. Growth Mindset)
• Follow Caro's on Instagram
• Buy Caro's book, Voir la lumière: #100daysoflumière
• The PR Book Caro read to pitch her book is "Hype Yourself" by Lucy Werner
• Want to do the 100 Days Challenge? Get on the email list here to be notified when it's starting in April.
• Join the 100 Days of Light Facebook Group for support and guidance
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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200 episodes of the podcast is a big milestone, so I wanted to do something a bit different! Today I'm answering all kinds of listener-submitted questions on everything from dealing with unhappy photography clients to the ins and outs of the education side of my business, to the scoop on my upcoming nuptials.

Thank you to everyone who submitted questions - I was truly overwhelmed by the response! - and thank you for being a listener these last 3 years. I (literally) couldn't do it without you.

A few things I mention in this episode:

• Follow us on IG: @thiscantbethathard_
• Get on the email list (it's fun!)
• Check out Colie James if you need someone to set up your CRM
• The Consistency Club for Monthly Marketing Templates
• The company where I got the jumpsuit is Marine Layer
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Most of the time on this podcast, I give you practical, actionable strategies to improve your photography business. Why? Because I know that when your business is succeeding, you are not only reaping the rewards of that success, but you are also (hopefully) feeling the joy that comes with doing something you truly love for a living.

But once in a while, it's important to take a quick break from the nitty-gritty details of running a business to check in with yourself and see if what you are building is actually bringing you the happiness you hoped it would. So today's episode is very heart-focused as we dive into how you make sure you are building a business you L-O-V-E. 

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Finding new clients can feel like an uphill battle. You put yourself out there on social media, ask your clients for referrals... and sometimes it's crickets. If only there were a way that people in your area could find you with a simple search.... OH WAIT!

Today's interview is with Chris Dawkins (aka Meredith's Husband), a decades-long veteran of the SEO business (so he really knows his stuff!) and the host of "Meredith's Husband," a podcast dedicated to SEO for photographers. SEO may not be a quick-fix type of strategy, but it is one of the very few actions you can take that will bring guaranteed eyeballs to your website, which is invaluable to your marketing efforts.

LINKS:

• The SEO Roadmap Workshop - use code "ANNEMIE" to get 10% off
• Listen to the Meredith's Husband Podcast
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Welcome to the Consistency Club, a monthly bonus feature of the podcast dedicated entirely to marketing your photography business.

This month Dayna and Annemie talk about how adding (ahem) consistent value to your marketing materials is a surefire way to keep your clients coming back for more. 

Don't forget! These episodes expire, so be sure you are subscribed to the podcast so you never miss an episode. 

Links: 

• Get this month's templates at www.thiscantbethathard.com/club
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I'll be the first to say this episode is a departure from the usual for This Can't Be That Hard. While I tend to stick to practical, actionable steps for your photography business, I also always like to keep an eye out for areas where I can push myself (and you!) to try new things that may help us grow.

Natalie Jennings has an unconventional way to help her students get unstuck, make decisions, and crush self-doubt - Tarot card readings. If you've been in business for any amount of time, you know how easy it is to get lost in the mire of uncertainty... and that's where Natalie comes in. The way she talks about Tarot is unlike anyone else I've heard, so whether this feels right up your alley, or a little too out in left field, I encourage you to listen in with an open mind and see what happens!

Links:

• Check out the Photo Business Help Podcast
• Subscribe to Natalie's weekly newsletter on substack
• And click here to book a 1:1 Tarot reading
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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If it hasn't happened already, at some point in your photography business, something is bound to go wrong. From corrupted cards to unhappy clients to issues with your gallery software, s%*t happens, and how you deal with it is going to ultimately determine how catastrophic - or not - it ends up being to your business. 

Today I am sharing an anonymous but real-life story that happened to one of my students, and sketching out a game plan for you to follow next time something goes sideways in your business. It's never fun to plan for the worst, but I'm hoping you'll earmark this one to come back to if (ahem when) it does!

Grab your seat in the Free Invisible to Irresistible Workshop starting January 30th (thiscantbethathard.com/workshop)

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Photography businesses are like snowflakes... no two are exactly the same. That's often appealing to the creative in us - there are a ton of things you can customize and personalize about your business to make it the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, it's a problem when we're tempted to compare our success with someone else's because that comparison is never apples-to-apples.

Hannah Smith is a purposely-part-time photographer in Cincinnati, OH, who has gone from brand new to fully booked in just a few years' time. We talk about the growing pains she's experienced, and what has helped her mindset along the way. Hannah is so intuitive and articulate, the wisdom she shares in this episode will make it one you want to come back to anytime you need a little pick me up!

LINKS:

• Visit Hannah's website
• Follow Hannah on Instagram

Grab your seat in the Free Invisible to Irresistible Workshop starting January 30th (thiscantbethathard.com/workshop)

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Most photographers struggle with marketing. Whether it’s because we don’t have the time, have trouble coming up with fresh ideas, or just feel uncomfortable promoting ourselves, marketing often gets pushed to the back burner until we're desperate.

But marketing really only works well when you're consistent about it.

Joining me on the show is Dayna, the woman at the helm of TCBTH’s marketing efforts. Over the last 18 months, she's had a front-row view of the marketing successes and struggles in our community, and today she's sharing her best tips for avoiding the most common marketing mistake she sees photographers make.

We're also announcing a new marketing resource we've created for you! It's called the Consistency Club, and we think it's going to be a HUGE help in keeping your marketing on track.

If you’ve ever wished you had a marketing fairy godmother, today your dreams are coming true!

Links:

• Learn about The Consistency Club (and download this month's content)
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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A really great customer experience is something that will keep clients coming back to you again and again. But contrary to what we might think, our client's experience is a lot more than just what happens on the day of the session and how much they like the photos we deliver…. There are so many opportunities to give them that "WOW" experience (or not)!

Today, I'm sharing a tool that will help you map out your customer's journey every step of the way, then figure out where and how you can improve those steps to really elevate your customer experience. 

Links: 

• Download The Customer Journey Map Worksheet
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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As we get ready to kick off 2023, I wanted to take some time to help you figure out what areas of your business you need to focus on in the upcoming year. Often, when we are in the thick of running our businesses, it’s difficult to get a big-picture view of what’s working and what’s not. 

So this week and next, I am sharing a couple of helpful tools that will help you map out where you are currently putting your time, energy, and resources in your business - and see if you might want to shift those in the coming year.

Links: 

• Get the Work Wheel and Journey Map Worksheets here
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Creating a membership program in your family photography business is a win/win: your clients get yearly photos they can rely on and you get a predictable monthly schedule and income. But what if you don't photograph families? What if you're a boudoir photographer, or a brand photographer, or something else... could a membership work for you? Today's guest is here to answer that question (and so many more)!

Monica Adelsteinsson is a dog photographer in Phoenix, and she's joining me on the show to share how she successfully introduced and launched a membership to her relatively niche market (including a fantastic Instagram strategy I'm DEFINITELY adding to my next launch)!

Links: 

• Learn how to create a portrait membership
• Monica's Website
• Follow Monica on Instagram
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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What would you do if you woke up one day to find that all the social media accounts you use for your business had been shut down? That's exactly what happened to my guest, Megan Lacy.

You've probably heard the old adage "don't put all your eggs in one basket," and when it comes to marketing your photography business, that's great advice... especially when the basket is owned by someone else! Social media can be an amazing place to build your network and market your business, but it's important to remember that your place there is never guaranteed. 

Today, Megan Lacy is sharing the horror story she's currently facing in the hopes that it can help you avoid a similar situation.

Links: 

• Megan-Lacy.com/podcast - contact Megan if you have advice for getting her accounts back
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Keeping up with the ever-changing landscape of social media can feel like a full-time job on top of your photography career (especially if you’re like me and don’t really love doing it). But there’s no denying that social media is a big part of most of our marketing strategies these days, so love it or hate it, we need to at least be able to fumble our way through the basics!

I wanted to bring on a working photographer who juggles all the platforms, content creation, and algorithm juggernauts really well and pick her brain about how she approaches social media. That person is Cassidy Lynne, and I think no matter where you are in your social media journey, you are going to learn something from today's episode!

Links:

• Cassidy on Instagram
• Cassidy's website: CassidyLynneEducation.com
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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I think we all know that SEO is crucial when it comes to growing our businesses and getting more inquiries, but it can feel like a complicated (or even impossible) nut to crack.

Enter today’s guest! When Melissa Arlena relocated from DC to Florida, she was able to quickly and successfully relaunch her business with a simple SEO strategy based entirely on blogging.

It turns out, blogging is not dead, but there is a new and improved way to go about it that will help you rank more quickly on Google. In this episode, Melissa’s breaking the whole process down into a way that's easy to understand and simple to implement. Whether you're relocating soon or just want to increase your business' reach, this episode is a must-listen!

Links:

• Melissa's "Where to Share" Checklist
• Melissa's SEO Resources
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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There's never a perfect time to start a business, have a baby, or get a puppy... at some point, you just jump in and say "I guess we're doing this!" 

We recently got a new puppy (Lasso... yes, after Ted Lasso), and spending so much time with this bundle of fluff has reminded me of all the joys - and struggles - that come with starting something new. It's both exciting and frustrating at the same time, with big learning curves in between... Which is exactly how I felt about starting a photography business!

So whether you're new in your business, in a period of growth, or just want to hear cute puppy stories while you edit, snuggle in for some Lessons From Lasso. 

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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Brands evolve over time, and rebranding is a project that most of us have to tackle at some point in our businesses… but it can be a daunting process! Confusion about where to start, what to do, and what to say can turn what should be an exciting process into a frustrating slog.

Today, Rachel Greiman of Green Chair Stories is sharing her expertise on the rebranding process. She gives advice on the order of operations and tips on how to decide what you can DIY versus what's better to outsource.

If rebranding is on your radar in the near future, this is one you'll want to take notes on!

Links:

• Green Chair Stories Website: https://greenchairstories.com
• 15% Off "The Guide to Write Your Site Right" with the code THISCANTBETHATHARD15
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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If you’ve been in business for any amount of time, you're probably familiar with burnout - it happens to the best of us. A lot of the resources out there focus on how to avoid burnout, which is great until you suddenly find yourself in the middle of it with no plan for how to turn the ship around. 

In case you find yourself in the throes of burnout - now or in the future - my guest Krista Marie Lynch has some solid strategies to help you reframe and move through burnout, so you can get back to finding the joy and creativity in your business. 

Links: 

• Listen to Krista's Podcast - She Calls Her Shots
• Download the Profit Planning Worksheet
• Check out Krista Marie Photography
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

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So many photographers feel annoyed at best (and overwhelmed at worst) when it comes to the financial side of running a small business - most photographers aren't born bookkeepers, but of course as small business owners, it's something we all have to manage.

Tanya Hirschy from Tidy Books Boutique is on the show today talking about why it’s important that we take some time to clean up our finances before the end of the year (hint: it can save you time, stress, and money!), and to give us some strategies for making that process as easy and painless as possible.

Links:

• Download Tanya's Tax Checklist for Photographers
• Follow Tidy Books Boutique on Instagram - @tidybooksboutique

For a limited time, access the first module of Sleigh Your Sales for free! thiscantbethathard.com/4secrets

• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

...

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I’m all about sharing the mistakes I made in my business to help you avoid making the same ones…. and one of the biggest, most costly mistakes I've ever made was not bothering to create a sale at the holidays for the first 8 years of my business. When I do the math, I estimate that one mistake cost me north of $50K (it still hurts to write that number!) 

If the word “sale” makes you cringe inside, then this episode is for you. There are plenty of reasons you can come up with to not run a holiday sale, but today I want to share 5 really compelling reasons why I think you should. Listen in with an open mind - I think you’ll be surprised at what you might learn!

Links: 

• Take the Holiday Sales Quiz to find out how much you could make this year.
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

...

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Every photographer's path to success looks different. Some of us went to school for photography, while others of us picked up a camera for the first time when our babies were born. I think one of my favorite things about talking to photographers is that no two success stories are ever the same.

Today’s guest is someone I have Instagram stalked for a long time, both for her beautiful images and her powerful words. And over the last few years, I've watched as her business has exploded.

From a social media perspective, it might seem like Carmen Bridgewater is one of those photographers who hits it big out of nowhere, but just like 99% of success stories out there, there was a long road leading to her "overnight success!"

Links:

• You can find Carmen at CarmenBridgewater.com
• and follow her on IG @carmen.bridgewater
• Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the TCBTH Facebook Group - a supportive, business-focused group for photographers.
• Leave a review!

...

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Evan Berding is an incredibly talented custom furniture maker who happens to also be my one and only brother. What's funny is that for all our similarities (siblings, artists, entrepreneurs), there are also a lot of big differences. Evan and I take very different approaches to our work, and I always love chatting with him about how who we are has shaped the paths we've taken. 

Today I'm sharing our conversation about the challenges and benefits of being an artist in business - how some of those are specialty-specific, and how others are universal.

Links: 

• Follow Evan on Instagram to see his beautiful work: @EvanBerding
• Find him at www.EvanBerding.com
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

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Evan Berding is an incredibly talented custom furniture maker who happens to also be my one and only brother. What's funny is that for all our similarities (siblings, artists, entrepreneurs), there are also a lot of big differences. Evan and I take very different approaches to our work, and I always love chatting with him about how who we are has shaped the paths we've taken. 

Today I'm sharing our conversation about the challenges and benefits of being an artist in business - how some of those are specialty-specific, and how others are universal.

Links: 

• Follow Evan on Instagram to see his beautiful work: @EvanBerding
• Find him at www.EvanBerding.com
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

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VIP Days have been gaining popularity over the last few years as a way for business owners to offer high-touch, high-value services that deliver fast results to their clients. If you've ever wondered how you could expand your photography business, either to increase revenue, stand out from the other photographers in your area, or to allow for more flexibility in your schedule, today's conversation about VIP Days with Jordan Gill of Systems Saved Me is going to get your wheels turning! 

We're covering:

• What VIP days are
• Who they're perfect for
• How photographers can create VIP offers in their businesses
• The do's and don'ts of a VIP offer
• And more!

Links:

• Find Jordan here: SystemsSavedMe.com
• And on Instagram here: @SystemsSavedMe
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.

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Most of the time on this podcast I give you ideas for how to refine your business, streamline your systems, and improve your workflow. But today I want to talk about WHY doing those things is important. One of the (many) reasons it's good to have a well-run business is so can keep your eyes open for the golden opportunities that are all around you. 

Sometimes as soloprenuers, we're so busy juggling the many hats we have to wear that we can struggle to see the forest for the trees (especially during the busy season)... and that happens in larger corporations, too. Today, I'm sharing a short story about how a big company failed to do that in the hopes that it will inspire you to re-commit to the customer service that makes our small businesses shine. 

Links:

• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

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If you’ve been a photographer for any amount of time, you’ve probably had a card malfunction, or a drive corrupt, or watched as Lightroom choked in the middle of exporting a session. 

Oh 💩, right? In those moments, I always wish I could just pick up the phone and call my own personal IT department to make THEM fix it. 

This past spring, in the wake of the worst data nightmare that I have personally experienced, I was connected with Ryan Hamic of Zen Flow tech, who - it turns out - is exactly that: on-call tech support for photographers. He's a specialist in data recovery (and helping you avoid losing data in the first place).

Tune in to hear my tale of woe, along with Ryan's best tips and secrets for protecting your photography data... this episode could save you thousands of dollars and even more headaches! 

Links:

• Follow Ryan @ZenFlowTech on Instagram
• Or find him at www.ZenFlowTech.com
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.

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For years, I've encouraged photographers to talk to prospective clients on the phone. For a variety of reasons, I believe it's the best way to not only book more clients, but to start the process of working together off on the right foot.

But these days, more and more people - photographers AND their clients - are reluctant to pick up the phone... which has led some of my students to explore different ways to initiate contact.

Sabrina Jill and Melissa Arlena are students of mine who've been using a different strategy that's been very successful for them. Instead of an initial call, they both use personalized videos to respond to inquiries, and their results have been fantastic. Today, they're taking us behind the scenes on the details of the strategy and why it works!

Links:

• Find Sabrina's website HERE and connect with her on Instagram HERE
• Check out Melissa's website HERE and follow her on Instagram HERE
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

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One of the most common questions that I get asked here at This Can't Be That Hard is: “How do I get more photography clients?"

Right? It's the photography marketing magic bullet (say that 10 times fast!) that we are all looking for.

But as you know by now, I’m a believer that there is no one-size-fits-all strategy for your marketing. It’s about trying different things, seeing what sticks, and above all, staying consistent. That said, I sure do love sharing fun, interesting strategies when I hear about them....

Today’s guest, Raymond Hatfield of the Beginner’s Photography Podcast is sharing a unique marketing tactic that worked like gangbusters for him. It’s a fun twist on marketing that I think will get your wheels turning and leave you with a smile on your face!

Links:

• Check out Raymonds amazing podcast, www.BeginnerPhotographyPodcast.com
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

Sign up for the FREE Invisible to Irresistible challenge starting 9/6/22! thiscantbethathard.com/challenge

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When your first start your photography business, you need to make a plan for a period of time where you're building your client base up. It's normal to run at a loss for a year or two, but you need to have a plan in place for moving from that deficit into the land of profit. (If your profitability runway is too short, you’ll risk feeling like a failure. If it’s too long, you may never get off the ground)

There are so many things to think about when you run your own small business that it can be difficult to find the right balance between marketing, education, customer experience, and of course pricing yourself profitably.

Today, I want to spend some time talking about how to navigate being a new photographer and share some advice on how to become profitable as soon as possible.

Links:

• Pricing for Photographers Mini Course
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

Sign up for the FREE Invisible to Irresistible challenge starting 9/6/22! thiscantbethathard.com/challenge

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As the busy season creeps up on us, often our stress creeps up right along with it. While some stress is inevitable (more clients = more work to do), it’s important to remember that at least part of the reason we chose to be photographers was to have freedom, flexibility, and control over our schedules and lives, so we need to run our businesses accordingly!

This week, my guest is Flourish Academy founder Heather Lahtinen. With over 20 years of experience as a wedding photographer, Heather's got a lot of wisdom to share on finding balance in your business. We talk about how to reframe your overwhelm, and cover 7 practical strategies to reduce your stress this busy season.

Links:

• Learn more about the Flourish Academy
• The Flourish Academy Podcast
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Go listen to these past episodes of "This Can't Be That Hard" :
  • Episode 38: The Donkey, The Workhorse, and The Unicorn
  • Episode 157: Money Doesn’t Make the Model

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For many photographers, self-promotion can feel a little painful even in the best of times. But what about those days (and weeks and months) when there are much bigger events (rightly) dominating our headlines and headspace? How do you send out a sales email or post about your upcoming mini sessions when those things seem trivial at best compared to what's happening in the world?

Balancing the need to book work with our genuine sensitivity can be tricky... no one wants to be an insensitive jerk, but we all have bills to pay, too. Today’s episode gives you a strategy for how to stick to your marketing plan while remaining tactful and tuned in to the bigger picture.

Links: 

• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.

Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

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Every photographer uses technology to some degree or another. In this day and age, tech is required for everything from bringing new clients in to giving them a good experience to editing, backing up, and delivering the images themselves.

And if you're not careful, it's far too easy to let your “tech stack” get away from you. Today, Colie James and I are having a conversation about the tech you absolutely need, the places where you may be able to consolidate, and strategies for not letting technology overwhelm your brain or your budget.

Links:

• Listen to Colie's Podcast - Business First Creatives
• Learn more at Colie's Website
• Follow Colie on Instagram
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.

Deals + Discounts:

• Pic-Time:Start your free trial and use code ANNEMIE to receive one bonus month with the purchase of any paid plan.
• Use code ANNEMIE334 to take 20% off a yearly Pixellu Galleries, SmartAlbums, SmartSlides or All-Apps bundle plan.
• Dubsado:Use code thiscantbethathard to get 20% off your first year of Dubsado.
• Want to DIY your Dubsado? Use Colie’s Dubsado course

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When the economic forecast looks dark and stormy, it’s easy to get panicked about whether your photography business is up to the challenge. Panic, though, doesn't help... a plan does. Even in boom times, it's smart to keep our businesses ready for whatever storms may come. 

In today's episode, Annemie shares four important ways that you can sure up your strategy and take some of the fear out of the unknown. If you are feeling apprehensive about the next few months, or just want to bulletproof your business plan, then this episode will be one to get your gears turning.

Links:

• Listen to Episode 60: “Creativity in the Face of Covid” for creative solutions other photographers have introduced in their businesses during tougher economic times.
• Check out Revenue on Repeat to learn how to create a membership in your photography business that will give you stability, freedom, and consistent income all year long without the learning curve, confusion, or overwhelm.
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In the world of photography education, there seems to be an assumption that everyone is after the same goal: to make 6 figures and have a completely full roster of clients that’s booked out 3 years in advance. 

But there’s a very large subset of photographers for whom that doesn’t resonate…  because that’s not in alignment with what they want or need from their businesses. 

Erin Brown artfully dubs herself a “purposefully part-time photographer,” and in this episode, she's sharing some of the specific challenges that part-time photographers face, as well as how to stay true to your own goals in a world that tells us we should always want to do and be more. 

Links: 

• Part-timer looking to connect? Send Erin a DM on Instagram here
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass that Erin talks about, where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

Go to thiscantbethathard.com/july to find out more about the sale happening from now through 7/25/22

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Have you ever had a brilliant idea while driving or walking the dog that felt so clear and exciting at the moment, but then even a few minutes later when you try to write it down… it’s gone? 

This has happened to me so frequently that I actually created a system (shocking, I know!), not only to capture the ideas that occur to me (even at the most inopportune times), but actually get them into my workflow so I can act on them later. Today, I’m sharing that system with you in a short but actionable episode. Get your pens ready, you’ll want to take notes for this one!

Links: 

• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

Go to thiscantbethathard.com/july to find out more about the sale happening from now through 7/25/22

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Dealing with the legal side of running a business is complicated, confusing, and can feel like an overwhelming item on your to-do list... but the cost of NOT addressing it can be enormous. Luckily for us, Rachel Brenke - better known as The Law Tog - has spent the last 10+ years using her expertise as both a lawyer and a photographer to make the legal side of things accessible to us as creatives. 

Today on the show, Rachel and I talk about the importance of creating a great client experience, and how taking a thoughtful approach to educating your clients will not only create a rave-worthy experience but can help avoid potential legal issues as well.

Links: 

• TheLawTog.com
• The Law Tog Facebook Group
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.

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It's not uncommon for my new Simple Sales students to have lots of questions about the "rules" of the system. If they change this thing or tweak this step, will the system still work?

Today I want to discuss the three modifications I most commonly get asked about in our Facebook group - how I have seen them work (or not work) for other photographers, and why I think that is. 

If you are new here and haven’t yet learned the 6 steps to the Simple Sales System, you may want to save this one until after you watch the masterclass (at www.thiscantbethathard.com/simple). 

And if you're looking for support around the business side of photography, join our Facebook Group where we talk all things photography business. 
Links:

• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

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Adding films to your photography business can be a great way to up-level your client experience, and can be rewarding both artistically and financially. That doesn’t make it an easy transition, though! The business of offering films to your clients is totally different from the business of offering still images. 

If you've ever considered adding films to your repertoire - or if it's something that you've tried and had a hard time making it work - then today's conversation is going to be a great one for you.

LINKS:

Download Courtney's Free Guide:  Getting Started with Films on Your Camera
Check out the Filming Life Academy
Watch Courtney’s Showreel (pro tip: have tissues ready)

Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love. 

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We all get to the point in our business where we need to raise our prices. But if you aren’t taking the time to understand why your prices need to go up (and even more importantly, how you're going to align that price increase with your overall business model), you're setting yourself up to fail. 

Today I'm covering 5 questions you should ask yourself before you increase your prices and walking you through the exact steps you should take to successfully raise your prices.

Links:

• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

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You know when you have that perfect client experience? From the moment they reach out, they're excited to work with you, there's no pushback on your pricing, the shoot is a breeze, and when you deliver their images they absolutely gush? It’s just an amazing experience from start to finish.

Don’t you wish you could clone those clients?

Today’s guest, Heidi Thompson, is showing us how to do exactly that. Heidi’s method for finding and attracting your bluebird clients is different from anything you’ve heard before, so get ready to get inspired!

Links: 

• Visit Heidi's website to find resources for wedding photographers
• Follow Heidi on Instagram
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

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When you're a solopreneur, your to-do list can feel never-ending. Taking a break, stepping away, or even (gasp!) going on vacation can seem like a luxury reserved for the non-self-employed.

After twelve years in business, I wish I could say I no longer have a hard time taking time off from work, but to be honest, it's still something I struggle with. That said, I've finally come to understand that breaks are not an indulgence but a non-negotiable requirement for the health of my creative business - as important as marketing or client communication - and have to be taken, even when I think I shouldn't (or perhaps especially then)!

If you can relate to the fear of stepping away from your to-do list, today's episode is just for you.

Links:

• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.
• Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there!

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As photographers, we spend a lot of time focusing on our visual storytelling, but as entrepreneurs, our written communication is just as important. Like it or not, your words are as likely as your photographs to land you your next job... or to lose it.

Today, creative copywriting specialist Courtney Fanning is sharing the 4 different types of buyers in the world, and how we can use our writing to connect with each of them. Don't forget your pencils, people - this is a jam-packed episode you’ll want to take notes on!

Links: 

• Which buyer type are you? Find out by taking Courtney's short quiz
• Visit Courtney's Website
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.

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One of the easiest traps entrepreneurs can fall into is filling our time with the busywork of running a business, and in so doing, postponing or missing bigger opportunities or changes that could dramatically improve our businesses and our lives.

A lot like having a baby, there is never a “perfect” time to make changes - especially big ones - in your business. There’s always going to be a good reason to wait - but what does waiting cost you? 

Today, I’m talking about a skill that is essential to master as an entrepreneur: how to prioritize and tackle the bigger, longer-term projects that keep your business moving forward. 

LINKS:

Listen to Episode 15

Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love. 

Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there! 

Learn how to create even more stability in your income with Revenue on Repeat.

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If you believe a task or a project is going to be easy, the smallest roadblock can seem insurmountable. But if you're mentally prepared for a challenge, those roadblocks become an expected part of the journey.

A lot of photographers go into business believing that their side hustle won't require much effort - what's so hard about doing something you love and getting paid for it, right? Running a business - even a simple one - is a major undertaking, and expecting otherwise is setting yourself up for frustration and failure.

Today, I’m talking with Paige Ray about what it means to be a creative, the journey we take, how universal our insecurities are, and most importantly how finding our community can help us normalize  and prepare for challenges we all face.

Links:

• Learn more about Paige's mastermind group on her website
• Follow Paige on Instagram
• Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love.

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The most common complaint I hear from other photographers is that they hate trying to get people to buy. On one hand, I get it - there’s something inherently uncomfortable about tooting your own horn and asking people for money. On the other, I worry that mindset is hurting you! 

Years ago, working in New York City in a totally different industry, I learned the difference between what makes selling feel gross and what makes it feel really good. Today, I’ll be sharing those lessons with you and giving you 4 steps to start approaching your sales from a place of authentic service, instead of a place of greed or manipulation.   

LINKS:

Sign up for the Simple Sales Masterclass where Annemie teaches the 6 steps to running a profitable, sustainable photography business you love. 

Join the free This Can’t Be That Hard Facebook Group - the most supportive, business-focused group for photographers out there! 

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Have you ever heard the term “your strength is in your struggle?” The Simple Sales System was born as the result of a life transition that forced me to take a good hard look at my business and my numbers. Once I got over the struggle of doing that (and saw the massive results it created in my business and my life), I wanted to help other photographers do the same thing, ideally before they were forced to do so by events outside of their control. 

Today, Cassidy Parker Smith is sharing about the set of personal circumstances that forced her to make some hard changes in her business, and how that struggle actually turned out to be one of the strongest things she has ever done... for herself, her family, and her business.

Links:
Cassidy’s Website
Cassidy’s Instagram
The Simple Sales System

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There's more than one way to run a successful small business... photography or otherwise. But with all the variety out there, successful businesses share one important trait: they are fully aligned under one of three models - The Donkey, The Unicorn, or the Workhorse. 

Back in episode 38, I described each of these business models in detail (so if you haven’t listened to that yet, I’d suggest doing so), but today I want to dive deeper on clarifying how you can determine which business model you are. Hint: ***it’s more than just your pricing!

Links:***Episode 38: The Donkey, The Workhorse, and The Unicorn
The Simple Sales Masterclass

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I'm always surprised when people express an interest in my personal life... you come here for photography business strategies, not the latest on this single mom's love life, right?

Well, today you're going to get a bit of both. Back in February, I announced I'd gotten engaged, and instantly started getting pinged with questions about who this guy was and what our story was all about. So today, I asked Riley to join me on the show for a little introduction. 

But just in case you're worried that this is going to be all fluff, I promise: I wouldn't have had him on if I didn't think he had some value to share with you. As a wedding photographer of 15 years, Riley took Covid as the sign and opportunity he needed to pivot to the next leg of his career journey, and I think you're going to get a lot out of his insights on the art of photography, the business of being a lifelong creative, and how to live life on your own terms. 

It's a peek behind the curtain with a bunch of valuable business lessons all tied in... hope you enjoy!

Links:

Simple Sales Masterclass

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A few weeks ago my refrigerator (finally) died. I knew it was on the outs, so it wasn’t totally unexpected, but surprise expenses like that can be a big bummer, right? Today’s guest, MicKallyn Elis, calls those kinds of surprises “Oh 💩! Expenses”, which is exactly how I feel about them!

MicKallyn is a financial coach who specializes in helping solopreneurs gain control of their finances. She understands that in a business like photography, income can fluctuate, and in this episode, she's sharing her brilliant strategy for anticipating those ups & downs so you can feel more in control of your finances.

LINKS:

The Cash Coach Pro Website
The Cash Coach Instagram

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It’s easy to fall into the trap of advertising that we do ALL THE THINGS - saying "no" to work that comes your way can be scary, especially when you’re first starting out as a photographer! But the last thing you want is for your business to come across as a “jack of all trades, master of none.”  The fact of the matter is that niching down can really benefit your business… if you do it the right way.

Today, I’m talking to Tavia Redburn about how she successfully niched down into one of the most esoteric subgenres of the field: birth photography. If you’ve been thinking about getting more specific in your business, Tavia gives us a step-by-step process for how to do that (without losing all your income in the process)!

Tavia’s Website
Start your Birth Photography Business

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When photographers want to increase booking rates, we tend to think about the things people see BEFORE they reach out to us - our social media or our websites. And although working on those can bring more inquiries in, a much easier issue to address is what happens AFTER they reach out... getting the people who inquire to you to actually hire us. 

The number one factor that will sway someone to hire you over the other photographers they've found is connection. Authentic connection can feel vague and hard to achieve, but connecting with a potential client can actually be pretty straightforward. 

In today's episode, I'm sharing 3 steps to creating an intentional connection with your future clients to put them at ease, see your unique value, and ultimately book with you.

Links:
The Simple Sales System

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Several years ago, right in the middle of one of her busiest seasons at work, Sabrina Gebhardt had a series of major, totally unpredictable personal issues hit all at once - a health emergency, a natural disaster, and a death in the family. When you run a solo business, you can't just call in sick... you have to manage the explanations, the reschedules, and the apologies, even when you may not be feeling up for it. Today, Sabrina's sharing the lessons she learned from that situation, and how the boundaries she's set in response have changed her business - and her life - for the better.

Sabrina's Website
Episode 80 (also with Sabrina Gebhardt)

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Want to make more money? I mean… who doesn’t?!? But most of the time, we think the only way to make more is to charge more. Not true! Today, I’m sharing three super-effective strategies for earning more money that you can implement quickly and easily in your business without raising your rates (or worse, discounting your work to try and get more clients).

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If you’ve ever stared longingly at the photo byline in a major publication and wondered “how can I get THAT job?!?" today’s interview is for you! For the last couple of years, Carolyn Fong’s portraits have frequently been seen illustrating stories in top news publications and ads for major brands, but the path to get there was neither short nor easy. In our conversation, Carolyn shares the details of her journey and what she’s learned along the way.

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Since his last guest appearance on This Can’t Be That Hard, a lot has happened in Cornell Watson’s career. Most of it has been hugely positive: he’s become a regular contributor to several major news outlets, including the New York Times and the Washington Post; he’s received several awards, including a grant from the Alexia Foundation, and - last summer - was offered an artist’s residency at the Sonja Haynes Stone Center for Black Culture and History at UNC-Chapel Hill. Last week, though, the exhibit set to display the work created during that residency was abruptly canceled by the university. Cornell joins me in today’s episode to tell his version of the story - a complicated one that serves as a great reminder of the power and importance of our work as artists.

LINKS:

First interview with Cornell on TCBTH
Cornell’s Website
Article in the Washington Post (with images from the residency)

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Gloria Chou is an expert when it comes to P.R. and how to pitch yourself. And maybe “pitching yourself” isn’t on your radar as something you believe you need to do, but it should be! Think about it: you’re pitching yourself when a client contacts you, when you’re applying for a job, when you’re asking to be considered as a speaker at a conference or a guest on a podcast… as entrepreneurs, we’re really pitching ourselves all the time! So today, Gloria’s sharing her CPR method for nailing your pitch each and every time.

Links:
Gloria's Masterclass
Gloria's Website

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The Pareto Principle (aka the 80/20 rule) tells us that only 20% of our actions are responsible for 80% of our success… so the big question is: how do we find that 20% and do MORE of it? Well, one thing that definitely WON’T help find the 20% is dragging your feet on taking action. Today I want to remind you that the thing that makes your art better - getting out of your own way and trying (and yes, sometimes failing), will also ultimately make your business better… then inviting you to dive in.

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It’s hard to write the show notes when you haven’t listened to the episode, but that’s exactly what I’m doing, because this episode was fully managed - from concept to final edit - by my amazing marketing wingwoman, Dayna… and I’m not going to listen to it until it drops. What I CAN tell you is that it features the stories of five of my amazing students, and who doesn’t love a good story? I seriously can't wait!

Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass

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If you’ve ever scrolled Instagram and found yourself gazing longingly at someone else’s perfect-looking life, wondering why you don’t have your ish together like they do, this episode is for you. Given that I’m always talking about systems and streamlining and automating, I don’t doubt that some people might imagine that I’ve got it all figured out, particularly when it comes to business. Well - spoiler alert - I don’t... And I really don’t want you to think I do. We all live messy lives, and some seasons are messier than others. Today I’m giving you a peek at the chaos behind the curtain. Join me!

Watch the Simple Sales Masterclass

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For years, you’ve heard people talk about the two main choices you had for running a photography business: in-person sales and all-inclusive sales. Both of those models can be successful if they’re managed right, but both also have some pretty significant drawbacks - all-inclusive photographers are leaving (big) money on the table and giving their clients a less complete experience, and IPS photographers spend A LOT of time and energy on the sale part of every session, limiting their ability to take on more work (or have a life outside of work). In the last two years, a new system has been gaining momentum, and today I’m sharing how the new system combines the best features of both old systems while avoiding the big pitfalls.

Simple Sales Masterclass

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You’ve heard me talk about Bluebird clients before - those ideal clients who love your work, happily pay your prices, let you do your thing artistically, then sing your praises all over town. You may also have heard me talk about snake clients - the ones who drain your time and energy, complain about your prices, micromanage your work, then top it all off with bad reviews. This week on the podcast, my guest Aisling O’Brien is introducing a brilliant new mascot to the lineup - the Possum Client. Aisling came up with this addition, and it perfectly describes those clients who seem like Bluebirds (and may return as bluebirds!), but in the meantime, roll over and play dead when the time comes for them to place their order. We all have to deal with possum clients every once in awhile, so in today’s episode, we’ll talk about who they are, and how we can coax them back to life.

LINKS:

Aisling O’Brien’s Website
Simple Sales Masterclass

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Websites can be so much work: updating our photos, writing copy, figuring out layout and structure, trying to understand and work on SEO... and the list goes on. Given all that work, is really even necessary for photographers to have a website in this day and age? Carolina Guzik from The Tog Republic joins me on the podcast this week to share her insights on why the answer to that question is a resounding YES. We talk about what the necessary components of a website are, and how a website is never truly "finished," no matter how long you've been in business.
Carolina's Photography Website
Carolina's Education Website

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As a solopreneur, it’s easy to forget that the money our clients pay us isn’t what we ultimately make - that number gets whittled down by business expenses. And too many solopreneurs just take whatever’s leftover at the end of the month or year and call it a day. But I think you should set a target salary and build it into your pricing (it’s IMPORTANT to make money in your business! That’s why we work!!!), so today on the podcast, I’m talking about how you should go about deciding what to pay yourself.

Simple Sales Masterclass

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Here are some of my favorite moments from this past year, including spotlights from some of my guests who came on and shared their real world stories, their struggles, and their insights and how those things have impacted their careers as photographers.

LINKS:

Simple Sales Blueprint Masterclass
Episode 80 with Sabrina Gebhardt
Episode 92 with Amy Sanusi
Episode 125 with Elke Van den Ende
Episode 127 with Mary Otanez
Episode 129 with Colie James
Episode 131 with Melissa Arlena
Episode 133 with Kami Vanous

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When I put podcast episodes together, my goal is always give you something valuable and actionable that you can use in your business. What I love about interview episodes is that new voices and perspectives bring valuable insights to ME as well! After 68 episodes in 2021, I figured we could all use a refresher - a best of the best, if you will - so I put together a quick tour of some of the highlights from my interviews in 2021. Whether you’re a brand new listener or have been around since the beginning, I think you’ll enjoy revisiting some of the best strategies and ideas we’ve talked about this year!

LINKS:

Sign up for January Jumpstart
Episode 72 with Erica Benson
Episode 88 with Sarah Landa
Episode 96 with Vicki & Eddie
Episode 104 with LaShawn Wiltz
Episode 108 with Rebecca Rice
Episode 111 with Natasha Samuel
Episode 114 with Sobrina Pies Crawford
Episode 118 with Ben Hartley
Episode 135 with Julie Christie

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With the new year right around the corner (can you believe it?), it’s the perfect time to start thinking about your goals for 2022.  But if you’re like most people, yearly goals can get lost in the flotsam and jetsam of day to day life.  So today I want to talk to you about six ways you can identify what goals you’d like to achieve for next year and the best way to do it.

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In order to create a successful path forward, sometimes we must first look back and take stock on our past.  And this is the perfect time of year for that introspective exercise.  In this episode I share with you the 6 areas of business I examine every year; because I’ve learned even the tiniest bit of insight, when harnessed, can snowball into big wins for the next year.

Register here for January Jumpstart

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Henry Ford once said “If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said ‘faster horses.’” I hear a lot of photographers who feel stuck doing or NOT doing, selling or NOT selling certain things in their businesses based largely on what their clients tell them they want or what they see other photographers around them doing. And as much as I know that it’s important to keep an eye on the market and to listen to what your clients tell you, today I want to talk about how the key to your success (and your happiness!) may well be to periodically ignore all that and think BIGGER.

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The biggest mistake photographers make when it comes to marketing is that they aren’t consistent about it. Today on the podcast, Julie Christie breaks down her overwhelm-free strategy for creating consistent content that will get your business in front of prospective clients and earn their trust over time. 

We’ll discuss 

• What the different options are when it comes to key content
• How to plan key content that will speak directly to your bluebird clients
• How to repurpose that key content in multiple ways to extend its reach (and reduce your workload)

Julie also shares how much time photographers should dedicate to marketing and the top marketing strategies she’s seeing work right now.

If filling your calendar this year felt hard, this week’s episode will motivate and empower you for an easier year ahead!

LINKS:
Julie's Instagram
Julie's Marketing Membership

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Well, guys, we've made it, it is Thanksgiving here in the US. And whether you're here in the US or not, whether you celebrate this holiday of questionable origins or not, I think we can all benefit from taking this annual opportunity to focus a bit on gratitude.  And today’s quick episode to remind you to show gratitude …to yourself.

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I know you’re busy, and I promise: today’s podcast isn’t going to add to your to-do list. Instead, I wanted to spend my time this week celebrating the value of what we do for a living. It can be easy - especially this time of year - to feel worn down, under-appreciated, and burned out. So Kami Vanous and I are chatting about why we do what we do, and why self-care (in the form of boundaries and profitable pricing and making time for a book by the fire every now and then) is necessary to keep showing up and doing our important work.

Kami’s sharing some of the stories and experiences (along with mistakes and near-misses) she’s had in her 12+ year career, and I think you’ll agree: her insights are just the thing to help us through to the end of the year and the promised land that is a quiet January.

LINKS:
Lucky Friday Studios
Kami’s Instagram
Simple Sales Masterclass

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Lisa DiGeso is a newborn photographer, podcaster, and fellow education junkie, and although we could easily have spent the entire episode bonding over those overlapping points on our respective bios, instead we dove deep on her online education platform, The Milky Way. Long before Covid forced ALL the photography conferences online, Lisa was figuring out how to create an online experience that truly served her audience.  The Milky Way offers attendees the ability to sample a variety of teachers, styles, and topics, all at a very reasonable price. I'm excited to be one of those teachers, and hope to see you there! Tickets to the Milky Way's most popular retreat of the year launch on 11/10 - tune in to find out all about what you can expect, then follow the link in the show notes to secure earlybird pricing before it flies away!

LINKS:

The Milky Way Newborn Retreat Tickets
Lisa’s Instagram
The Art and Soul Show
The Milky Way

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It's November, and you know what that means: it's getting to be feel-good movie season! In that spirit, I bring you today's conversation. Melissa is a student of mine, and over the course of the last 18 months, I have loved watching her business skyrocket: she’s nearly quadrupled her prices and is busier than ever… even in the wake of a move from DC to Florida.  But it wasn’t until recently that I learned more about her backstory - how just a couple of years ago things had gotten bad enough that she actually had to go get another job and all but shutter her 10 year photography business. Today, we’re talking about how she turned what felt at the time like failure into an amazing comeback… that just keeps getting better!

Links:

Simple Sales Masterclass - https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/simple
Melissa’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/melissaarlena
Melissa’s website - https://www.melissaarlenaphotography.com
Melissa’s Blueprint Review - https://www.melissaarlenaphotography.com/the-simple-sales-system-blueprint-review/

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In keeping with the spooooky Halloween season, I’m dusting the cobwebs off my own personal crypt of In-Person Sales horror stories.  While IPS is widely known as the gold standard for selling photography - in some ways, with good reason - there's a bit of a dark side that few ever talk about... so today that's whta we're doing!

LINKS:
Simple Sales Masterclass

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Chatting with my friend Colie James always gets my creative juices flowing, but in today’s interview, I was also seeing dollar signs! Colie calls 2021 “The Year of the Pivot,” and we can all learn from her experiences and flexibility as she shares about how to handle tasks that no longer light you up, as well as leveraging what does light you up into possible revenue streams. But my favorite aha moment in today's conversation came from our discussion of VIP days: what they are and how they can be incorporated into a photography business.

Links:

Register for the Planning for Profit live workshop
Colie James Photography
Colie James Instagram
EP 030: All Things CRM, Part 1 with Colie James
EP 032: All Things CRM, Part 2, A Roundtable Discussion

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It may seem early, but now is the time to start thinking about how to show your appreciation to your clients this holiday season. Every year, my goal is to strengthen the bond I have with my clients in a way that won’t break the bank (and may actually help bring in more revenue), and since I imagine those might be YOUR goals, too, I wanted to share some ideas and best practices. These five ideas range from nearly free to a max of around $25-30, but all of them are thoughtful, personal, and designed to remind your clients why they hired you and why they should recommend you to everyone they know and hire you again soon.

LINKS:

Register for Planning for Profit Holiday Sales Training
Rose McAvoy’s Video

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We all make transitions in our business, some larger (like starting our businesses in the first place or switching from weddings to portraits), some smaller (like increasing our pricing or changing our sales structure). What often happens, though, is that we make those transitions haphazardly - with a vague vision of the end goal in mind, but no organized plan for how to get from here to there. Today, Mary Otanez - a veteran photographer and transitioner - is sharing her three-phase framework for planning and executing smooth transitions.

This framework is beautiful in its simplicity, and Mary’s practical advice on a subject that can be both overwhelming and hard to structure is going to be something you’ll want to come back to again and again.

Links:

Mary’s Website
Mary’s Instagram
Register for Planning for Profit (Registration is closed)

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I have a private Facebook group for photographers who want to talk business. Why private, you ask? Because I want people to feel free to ask hard questions - questions they may not want their friends and family (much less their clients) to see that they’re struggling with. The conversations are great, but certain topics tend to come up over and over again, so I figured I’d take some time this week to weigh in on five of the most common issues that come up.

Links:

Join the Facebook Group
EP 054 - Putting A Price On Privacy
Planning For Profit Training -  Registration is closed

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Do you ever wish you could raise your prices but fear that your local market can’t or won’t support what you need to charge? If so, this interview with Elke Van den Ende is a must-listen. 

Elke is a wedding and portrait photographer is based in Western Europe, where most portrait photographers charge just a few hundred pounds for their services. But when Elke ran her numbers and saw that those numbers wouldn’t work for her, she decided to go out on a limb and charge more - close to five times more - despite the fact that she was new to business and smack in the midst of Covid. 

Today, she’s sharing how she did that and the (amazing) results she’s had.

Elke’s website: https://www.elkevandenende.com
Elke’s instagram: @elkeVDende
Simple Sales Masterclass: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/simple 

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I recently polled a big group of photographers asking them what three words or phrases they would use to describe their feelings about money. The responses were overwhelmingly negative, and filled with words like stress, shame, scarcity, guilt, and insecurity. And maybe it seems that since I teach photographers about how to price and sell their work, and since I come from an in-person sales background, and since I openly talk about the fact that my photo business makes six figures, maybe it’s easy to assume that things like money and sales and charging higher prices have always come easily to me. 

That couldn’t be further from the truth.

Although these days I feel pretty confident when it comes to money and all the things surrounding it - earning it, saving it, and spending it - it DEFINITELY hasn’t always been that way. So today I want to share a bit about my own journey - where I was, where I am now, and how I got there.

Simple Sales Masterclass

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Back in Episode 117, I shared that I had decided the time was right to switch from dSLR to mirrorless, and that I was in the process of researching my camera options. I decided to share that research and decision-making process on the podcast in the hopes that it may provide a less techy, more practical approach to gear decisions in general and mirrorless cameras specifically. Although it took me a bit longer than I’d originally anticipated, I’ve made a decision and am ready to share it (along with all the factors that led me there)!

Special thanks to B&H Photo for answering my many, many questions and supplying rentals for both the Canon & Sony bodies. Special thanks also to Stacey Moore and Fujifilm for talking me through (and loaning me!) the magic of modern-day APSC and digital Medium Format) cameras!
_________

Like my approach and interested in diving deeper on the business side of things? Sign up here for instant access to my free masterclass to learn my hybrid IPS/online sales strategy that's achieving predictably profitable sales for hundreds of photographers around the world!

Canon EOS R6
Fuji X-T4
Fuji GFX50R
Sony Alpha 9ii

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What is going through someone’s head when they hire a photographer? Sure, they need to like the photos, and yes, they need to be able to afford the pricetag, but assuming both of those things are true, what makes someone choose one photographer over another? There are ten major drivers that motivate purchasing decisions, and once you know which one(s) are most relevant to your ideal clients, you can build a business and a message that will set you apart and make you the only option they want to consider. 

As we head into the busy season, a quick audit and a few tweaks could mean a boom to both your inquiries and your booking rate!

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We’ve all seen the thread: a photographer gets an inquiry, sends off a response, then gets an angry response from this would-be client who is shocked and outraged at the prices they’ve just been presented with. These posts often get dozens or even hundreds of responses, and some of them, inevitably, push the original poster to “educate the client.” Today, I’m here to tell you that trying to educate that person - at least at that point in the game - is an exercise in futility. Instead, I want to talk about the steps you need to take to eliminate those emails from your inbox once and for all. 

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Three years ago, fine art portrait photographer and body positivity advocate Amanda Thorson got an idea for a photo book. As of two weeks ago, that idea officially became a reality when she crossed the goal line on her Kickstarter. The photos are made, the book is designed, the funding is there… now all that’s left is to go to print! I chatted with Amanda about the whole process - what’s fun, what’s hard, what she’s learned and - of course - how much it actually costs to self-publish an art book!

Be sure to check out Amanda Thorson on Instagram! and reserve a copy of Amanda Thorson's book here!

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I have long preached phone calls and videos as important tools in any photographers communication arsenal, but I’ve never been able to perfectly describe the difference between when a text or email is appropriate vs. when you should pick up the phone or hit record on your camera… until I heard an interview with Juliet Funt. Funt is the author of a book called A Minute to Think, and while many of the book’s topics sounded interesting to me, it was a short aside in the interview that caught my ear. She talked about the difference between 2D and 3D communication, and how thinking in those terms could help people decide what means of communication would be most appropriate in a given situation. Today I’m explaining the idea and hoping it will help you navigate the sometimes-confusing question of how to best reach people in your own business.

Links:

A Minute To Think by Juliet Funt
Revenue on Repeat

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When it comes to email marketing, do you ever wonder what your emails should say? How often you should send them? How you can grow a small (or non-existent) list? How you can tell whether what you’re writing is resonating with your audience? Or even just why you should bother with email marketing at all? Then this episode is for you!

LINKS

Flodesk
Flodesk University
Flodesk’s Facebook Community
Quiet Like Horses (Sobrina’s content strategy site) can be found at http://www.quietlikehorses.com/

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This is Part 1 of a two part series. In this episode, I interview Gabriel Biderman from B&H. We talk through the general arguments for mirrorless and the more specific nuances of what I want and need as a family photographer. Whether you’re a mirrorless fan already or just casually considering a switch from DSLR, I hope you’ll find this series educational and entertaining.

LINKS:

B&H Camera

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A well-done photography client prep guide is a thing of beauty: it is a fantastic, professional way to represent your brand to your new clients, it helps reassure them that you know what you're doing and are going to be a trustworthy guide through the process, and it helps you avoid lots of time spent answering and addressing common questions and concerns. But putting a good guide together is also a HUGE investment of time and energy, and it seems like a waste that it only gets seen by those people who actually hire you.

What if your beautiful prep guide could be turned into a great marketing tool, too? A way to help prospective clients find you and trust you before they ever reached out. And what about the parts of the prep guide that no one ever seems to read... is there a way to strategically drip those out so that your clients are more likely to actually follow your guidance?

In today's podcast, I'm giving you some general pointers about prep guides - what they should include and how they should be structured - then I'm giving you five recommendations for how you can take the content that you've already created and put those to good use in other parts of your business... the goal - always - is working smarter, not harder.

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You may have heard the marketing term "Value Ladder," and while the concept of encouraging new business with small offers that lead to progressively larger ones is pretty simple, translating that into a strategy for your photography business might not be. In this episode, I am talking about value ladders: how to build one in your business and how to make sure you don’t fall off.

LINKS

EP 003: The Importance of Trust

The Simple Sales System Masterclass 

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Ben Hartley from The Six Figure Photography Podcast is a marketing whiz, and he attributes much of his success to something he calls Chain Reaction Marketing - a strategy that ensures your marketing efforts have as much impact as possible. As entrepreneurs often wearing ALL the hats in our businesses, this strategy is vital to stretch our marketing time and dollars to their limits… and all it requires is a bit of strategic planning!

LINKS

Booked Solid Course
Ben Hartley’s Mastermind Facebook Group

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Where do you get your best ideas? I take an hour-long walk with my dog on a leash and a business podcast or audiobook in my headphones 4-5x/week, and I get most of my best ideas that way. It’s not uncommon for me to pause whatever I’m listening to, pull out my phone, and dictate a thought or idea into the notes app, and today’s episode is the direct result of one of those ideas. 

I was recently listening to an interview on a marketing podcast and the person was talking about an online pie company that offers a sampler box, and that got me thinking about a perfume sampler kit I received as a gift a few years ago, and THAT got me thinking - as usual - about how photographers might tap into a similar marketing strategy.

Fair warning: the marketing idea I’m presenting today is not simple, and it may not be right for every photographer, but I’d be willing to bet that if it was planned, shared, and executed properly, it could be a fun and buzz-worthy way to connect with new potential clients. 

LINKS

Revenue on Repeat
Episode 112

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Ever worry about what would happen if you were to break an ankle and be unable to work for several months? That was always a nagging worry in the back of my mind, but it wasn't until it actually happened to me in the winter of 2018 that I did anything to protect my business. In the summer of 2020, I launched a portrait membership and secured around $4K a month regular income that I could rely on... and it was what saved my business when Covid hit less than a year later. Now I teach other photographers how to set up their own memberships in my course Revenue on Repeat, and today I have three students on the show sharing their own membership stories - how they launched, what they've learned, and how memberships are changing their businesses.

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Video on Instagram has quickly become one of the best ways to humanize your brand and market your offers to your ideal clients. That’s why today I’m sharing a value-packed conversation with Instagram Video superstar Natasha Samuel.

Natasha is sharing

• her content pillar strategy and how to use that to ensure that you’re delivering the perfect balance of personal and professional
• why video content (all four types!) is a necessary complement to the beautiful still imagery you share in your feed
• how you can get hyper-targeted and ensure that the people who are finding you on IG are qualified buyers in your local market.

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When is good customer service most important? When things are at their MOST uncomfortable… think colonoscopy-level discomfort.

The good news? Even something as unpleasant as a painful medical procedure can be remembered in a better light if the experience ends well. And if that’s true for a colonoscopy, imagine the possibilities in our photography businesses!

Today, I’m sharing some lessons from Nobel Prize-winning psychologist Dan Kahneman, along with my three-step system for how to appropriately assess and address frustrated or disappointed clients. These strategies can help you rescue even the most dire customer service situations and turn them into rave reviews and clients for life.

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You may think of Pic-Time as an online gallery software provider, and it's true: they offer photographers a beautiful way to present their images.

But there's so much more to Pic-Time. When you go beneath the surface, you'll find a variety of incredibly powerful marketing and sales tools. It's a unique opportunity for photographers to get the power of big business strategies bundled in with software they need at a price they can afford.

Today, I talk to Pic-Time's founders Amir and Nirit Karby about their mission: helping photographers maximize the potential of their art, both visually and financially. We discuss how they've accomplished that from the founding of Pic-Time to now, including the potential that their newest release - the addition of an integrated slideshow builder - has for photographers.

Want to give Pic-Time and the new slideshow builder a try? Use code ANNEMIE at checkout for a free bonus month with the purchase of any plan.

Links & Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
The Simple Sales System
Pic-Time
Webinar on how to use the new slideshow tool in the Simple Sales app

Full show notes and transcript available here:
Episode 109

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Rebecca Rice is known as the Queen of Mini Sessions, and for good reason! Her approach is a great reminder that good things can absolutely come in small packages! In our chat, Rebecca and I discuss marketing mini sessions, timelines for promotion, and the importance of knowing your ideal market. Additionally, Rebecca discusses pricing, location choices, email marketing, and using automations to ensure great customer service for her high volume. This episode is jam-packed, so have a pen and paper ready!

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Every other Friday, at 2pm Eastern, I join up with a group of talented people on the social media site, Clubhouse, to discuss topics relating to photography and the business of photography. We pick a different topic and this week’s topic was Our Favorite Business Tools. People in the room are able to ask questions or add to the discussion and we never know who might join in. This week, Sarah Landa, everyone’s favorite SEO guru was there; and we got some great insight from Carolina Guzik, host of The Tog Republic.

In case you’re not on Clubhouse, I’m posting our most recent get together so you can listen in (with everyone's permission, of course!)

If you'd like to learn more, below are the participants and links to the tools and sites we mentioned. I think I’ve listed them all, but forgive me if I left something out.

These are non-affiliate links to the tools and services we discussed. We are not getting any compensation for recommendations. We are simply sharing the tools and apps we like and use.

Productivity tools and apps:

Full Focus Planner https://fullfocusplanner.com/

Asana https://asana.com/

Dubsado https://www.dubsado.com/

Zapier https://www.zapier.com/

Flodesk https://flodesk.com/

Pic-Time https://www.pic-time.com/

Carolina Guzik’s podcast The Tog Republic https://thetogrepublic.com/

Services, Communities, and Education:

Image Salon https://imagesalon.com/post-production

Sarah Landa (SEO) https://www.sarahlanda.com/complete-seo-basics

The Family Narrative https://www.thefamilynarrative.com/

Illuminate Classes https://www.illuminateclasses.com/

Sabrina Gebhardt’s education site, https://www.sabrinagebhardt.com/education

The Simple Sales System Masterclass www.thiscantbethathard.com/simple

Colie James’ education site, https://coliejamesphotography.com/dubsado/

Brooke Schultz http://brookeschultzphotography.com/love-soaked-family-photography-the-course/

Participants’ sites:

Amy Sanusi (Kinship Photo) https://www.kinshipphoto.com/

Mary Otanez https://www.maryotanezphotography.com/

Sabrina Gebhardt https://www.sabrinagebhardt.com/

Jess Koehler https://www.jesskoehlerphoto.com/

Posy Quarterman https://www.photoposy.com/

Colie James https://coliejamesphotography.com/

Annemie Tonken (Megapixie Photography) https://megapixie.com/

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Connecting with the right photography clients can feel overwhelming: what do they want? Where are they hiding? What’s the right price point or message or strategy? One of the most important things you can do as a business owner is put yourself in the shoes of your clients, and today’s conversation with Lachlan Shum - founder of the Focal Marketplace - is going to help you do just that. Lachlan’s entire business idea came from his experience, not as a photographer, but as a client. He built a business based on his own attempt to hire a photographer - one he found difficult and confusing - and is now full of golden insights on how to make sure you’re making it as easy as possible for the right clients to find you.

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Automations: friend or foe? If you think automations are only for big businesses or have avoided using them because you believe they limit your ability to deliver a personalized service, today’s episode is for you. I talk about three common misconceptions about using automations in your business, and about how - when used properly - automations can benefit not only you as the business owner, but your clients as well.

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Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up focusing on how many followers we have on social media. LaShawn Wiltz coaches us on a different way to view that metric, which can help us zero in on what’s important and might just also lead to new business opportunities!

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Susannah Storch & I talk about transitioning from a longstanding career in weddings to focus entirely on family photography (after a year-ish off for Covid). How do you shift your messaging and get the word out that you’re still in business but doing something new?

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We all have to raise our prices occasionally - sometimes a little, sometimes a lot. If that were as simple as adjusting a few numbers, perhaps price adjustments wouldn’t feel quite so daunting. But there’s more to it than just math… like, how do you come up with those new prices? How do you justify them to your clients? To yourself? How can you introduce those prices to existing clients in a way that communicates value and keeps them from running for the hills?

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Marc DeCarli & I talk about creating targeted messaging on your website that will attract the right customers. We talk about what needs to go first, video strategy, and the nuances of taglines. What’s the best way to quickly capture the attention of your visitors, then educate them in a way that takes them from wanting to hire A photographer to wanting to hire YOU?

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100 whole episodes!!! Whether it’s a celebration of all the inspiration, education, and action-taking for your business or just a cheers to no more zeros in front of the episode number, 100 episodes deserves a bit of celebration, right?!? ! I wanted to figure out a fun way to commemorate the milestone, but before I did, SURPRISE! I was given the gift of a day off. Join me today for a super-fun surprise party 100th episode!

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Candra Schank & I talk about the nuanced differences between business models, and how to ensure that the model you choose aligns with your unique gifts.

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Have you ever been told your prices were too high? When you were - because we ALL have been - did it ever make you want to yell “too high compared to WHAT?!?!” Well, here’s the answer: your prices are being compared to price anchors, and if you don’t pay attention to them, those anchors can sink your business. Today on the podcast, I’m teaching you what price anchors are, how they affect buying decisions, and how being aware of price anchors and how to unmoor them can help you dramatically increase your booking rates.

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Klayne Rolader & I talk about the self-doubt that creeps in when you’re not booking as many clients as you’d like to. Is it your work? Your prices? Your clients?

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Brand photography is big business… and it’s an amazing opportunity for photographers of all kinds to add a revenue stream that can be managed during the regular work week… the trick is setting yourself up for success by understanding how to market, price, and run brand photography correctly from the start.

Vicki Knights and Eddie Judd from the Shoot Edit Chat Repeat podcast join me to talk about the lessons they’ve learned in close to two decades of working in brand photography, as well as share more info about the new course they’re launching called The Art and Business of Personal Brand Photography.

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Evelynne Gomes-Greenberg & I talk about the head game that happens between the launch of a new business and that time when business really starts rolling in. How is it possible to stay upbeat, positive, and confident while your inbox remains quiet?

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There are some big (and perhaps overdue) changes happening at This Can’t Be That Hard - all exciting and all shared on today’s podcast! I’m introducing the newest (and actually, the first!) official members of Team TCBTH, as well as giving you a sneak preview of what I have in the works for you in the next few months. Listen in to hear all of that… and to learn how you can get access to my newest free resource for you. This is a good one!

The Simple Sales System Masterclass

Revenue On Repeat

Free Marketing Download

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Donna Craddock & I talk about strategies for staying consistent in your marketing and messaging, even when life is anything BUT consistent. Juggling chronic illness and a one-woman business? It can be done.

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Outsourcing doesn’t need to be limited to hiring an accountant or an editor! In this episode, Amy Sanusi and I chat about all the aspects of hiring and working with a studio manager - from where to find one to how to train and pay one. Whether you’re ready to start outsourcing yet or not, this conversation will help you understand the who, what, how, & when of that process so you can be ready to maximize the amazing potential of a studio manager!

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Cara Burk and I talk about getting clients to consider and make the leap to a higher end product… in her case, family films. Is there a way to shift demand from a lower-priced product to a higher-priced one?

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How we think about, talk about, and act when it comes to money can be the difference between a thriving business and a failure, but there’s a lot of emotional baggage that can cloud our vision, making the choices and challenges we face regarding money seem much more complicated than they need to be. In this episode, I’m offering a way to filter those thoughts that will bring clarity to how you think of money in your business… and how you position your services and what you charge for them so that your potential clients are more likely to book you.

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, my TFN co-founder and (very) long-time friend Kate Thompson and I talk about how to rein in a business that’s gotten TOO multifaceted, and do so in a way that doesn’t destroy all the hard work you’ve done to get there. Kate is a wedding, family, and brand photographer based in Richmond, VA.

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Of all the SEO experts I could’ve asked to come on the podcast, Sarah Landa got first pick. Why? Because not only is she an active SEO consultant with a client roster populated by friends of mine who RAVE about her services, she also happens to be a fantastic family portrait photographer herself, so she truly understands the ins and outs of getting recognized in a crowded field. Her superpower is helping photographers and creatives find their why, connect with their ideal client, and reach page one of Google, one click at a time, and on the podcast today, she’s sharing some of her best strategies.

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Ashley Gliss and I talk about managing the lull that inevitably happens when you leave your full-time job.

Even if you’ve planned for that lull financially, how do you plan for it emotionally? Is there a way to take advantage of that extra time without letting the transition panic take over? Ashley is a family photographer based in Greenville, SC. You can find her online here and here.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/087

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On March 1st, the Simple Sales Blueprint is getting its first major update since I launched it over a year ago. From the beginning, I’ve had filmmakers, wedding photographers, and documentary photographers asking if there was a way to apply the principles of Simple Sales to their business models, which is trickier than it sounds. Simple Sales was originally created as a portrait sales solution, and the core of the system relies on being able to divide the deliverable into three-tiered options.

But most wedding photographers can’t ask their clients to choose a set number of digital files, right? And a filmmaker can’t exactly deliver only part of a film.

Module 5 - entitled the Second Story Addition - drops March 1st as a free upgrade to existing Blueprint owners.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/086

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Tara Fjetland and I talk about launching your business in a new area. Is it better to start at a low price point and work your way up? How do you get new business in the door? And how do you adjust your business model?

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I started my photography business in 2010, and went full time with it in 2011. In 2017, I co-founded The Family Narrative, which was - in a way - a second business, then in 2019, I launched This Can’t Be That Hard, which is now the business on which I spend the most time.

As a three-business-running parent, you can bet I stress about the impact my work life has on my home life and my ability to show up meaningfully for my kids… and I know I’m not the only one that stresses about that issue. So today I’m going straight to the source and chatting with my almost-15-year-old son Oliver about his experience from the other perspective.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/084

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Emily Hines and I talk about the why and how of diversifying your income as a photographer. What’s the best strategy when it comes to diversifying, and when should the different areas of your brand be kept separate or showcased together? Emily is a lifestyle family photographer based in Austin, TX. You can find her online here and here.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/083

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We are photographers in a time when the people in our target market are both inundated with beautiful photographs and incredibly passive about the way they consume those photographs… it’s a tough spot as someone who needs to market their services!

Today I’m going to talk about how one small (but consistent) action can help change the way people interact with your brand and your photographs, slowly but surely helping them feel connected to you as a person and - eventually - buying from you.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/082

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Tiernae Salley and I talk about moving past your comfort zone and making the leap from part time to full time. How do you know when it’s the right time? Tiernae is a lifestyle family photographer based in Indianapolis. You can find her online here and here.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/081

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Sabrina Gebhardt joins me on today’s podcast to talk about the difference between running your business and letting it run you. With a solid background in business before ever getting into photography, you’d think Sabrina would’ve hit the ground running on her own business… but just like most of the rest of us, it took a lot of floundering before she said to herself “Wait a minute, this shouldn’t be this difficult!” Listen in to hear what she started (and stopped) doing, along with the tips she has for the rest of us about how we can take control of our businesses (and our lives)!

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Megan Lacy and I talk about the struggle of getting re-established… after a new move, a new baby, or - if you’re Megan - a bit of both. How can we navigate forward when so much is in flux?

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/079

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Video is an extremely effective but also extremely underutilized tool when it comes to educating our photography clients, whether it’s before they’ve hired us, when they’re getting ready for their session, or when it’s time to purchase products. Today we’re talking about that first part, and how we can use video to help get noticed by potential clients noticed, make our brands stand out from the competition, and book more of the right clients. I’m giving you a formula for what to say, how to record it, and where to post it once you’re done… all without requiring any special video or editing skills.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/078

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Nikki Shefchik and I talk about not just the HOW of marketing, but the WHY… What is the real goal of marketing a photography business, and how can fine tuning your thoughts on the subject help you more effectively focus your efforts? Nikki is a lifestyle photographer based in Appleton, Wisconsin. You can find her online here and here.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/077

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Community is such an essential resource for any successful entrepreneur… no matter what we think, we actually CAN’T do it all alone!

Today I’m sharing a conversation I had this weekend with the core of my photography community… my ride-or-die ladies, Kate Thompson & Posy Quarterman. We’re chatting intentions and goals for 2021, the talks each of us is giving at our upcoming conference, The Family Narrative, and our thoughts and feelings about the fact that the conference will - by necessity - happen online this time around.

• The Family Narrative
• 2021 Business Bootcamp Signup (Registration closed)

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Melissa Dorman and I talk about tweaking the finer points of the SImple Sales System… specifically the pros and cons of adding more collections and the concept of sending a proofing gallery.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/075

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On January 7th, 2020, I officially launched the Simple Sales Blueprint for the very first time. I was brand new to online teaching, and having invested hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars to get to that point, there was a lot riding on what came next. In celebration of the one year anniversary of that big day in my career, I’m sharing a few of the lessons I’ve learned about new ventures and how to approach them, along with a few of the success stories that my students were kind enough to record for you.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/074

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Anouk Briere-Godbout and I talk about the mindset and strategies necessary to get some marketing traction when you’re brand new (never mind trying to do so in the midst of a pandemic).

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/073

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One of the perennial issues on almost any photographer’s to-do list is branding… whether you’re updating your website, fine-tuning your messaging, up-leveling your social media, or overhauling your visual branding (logo, etc.), all roads lead to your BRAND. On today’s podcast, photographer and branding expert Erica Benson talks us through her process and gives you actionable tips to help your brand stand out in the crowd.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/072

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Happy 2021, everyone! Before we get back to our regularly scheduled Mini Mentoring episodes, I wanted to take a few minutes to reflect on what 2020 has meant and what I believe 2021 can bring in our businesses and our lives.

Show notes: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/071

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On this, the last installation of the holiday special episodes for 2020, I’m sharing my guest appearance on We Are Photographers, the Creative Live podcast hosted by Kenna Klosterman.

I’m a long-time fan of Creative Live and of Kenna, and her podcast is one of my favorites - the guests she chooses and the stories she explores are always so inspiring. Kenna and I go way back (see the video below for evidence), and perhaps because of that, I particularly loved this conversation. I hope it inspires you to think big and aim high in 2021!

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/070

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This past summer, I released a series of episodes about business alignment. Ensuring that all the parts of your business are aligned is an ongoing and ever-so-important task, so I thought I’d package up the first two episodes for you to listen to back to back, and re-post the freebie I created to go along with them.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/069

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Today I’m sharing the replay of an interview I did with Vicki Knights and Eddie Judd over on their fantastic podcast Shoot, Edit, Chat, Repeat where we talked about how to respond to inquiries, why it's so important to educate your clients before they book (and the best way to do that), how to get a client to make a spending decision, and how collections are an important part of the sales process.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/068

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During the month of December, I’m taking a break from creating new content for the podcast, and instead sharing some stuff I think you’ll enjoy from the past year.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/067

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During the month of December, I’m taking a break from creating new content for the podcast, and instead sharing some stuff I think you’ll enjoy from the past year. Today I’m sharing a conversation I had with Carolina Guzik on her podcast The Tog Republic.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/066

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When Kristyn Miller and I scheduled time to record this episode of Mini Mentoring, we had one plan for what we were going to talk about. Then, once we set the timer and actually talked it through, it turned out we had a whole different conversation on our hands.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/065

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Kahran and Regis Bethencourt are on fire. Their new book Glory was released last month and instantly hit the New York Times Bestseller list, and yet in the midst of promoting that, managing a full roster of private and commercial clients, working on their second book, and chasing their new puppy Pixel around, they made time to chat with me on This Can’t Be That Hard. You absolutely can’t miss this conversation!

Show notes: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/064

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, I’m chatting with Jaye McLaughlin about making changes in an established business and helping long-term clients adjust.

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Most photographers set out to run a relatively simple business, but it’s surprisingly easy to quickly make things more complicated than they need to be.

In this episode, I’m going to give you a quick way to assess whether you’re overcomplicating your business, and if you are, an easy strategy for identifying where things need to be streamlined and simplified.

Show notes: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/062

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In this slightly unusual episode of Mini Mentoring, I’m chatting with Dreama Spence, a photographer who planned and executed an UnSchooled portrait session concept this fall. She’s giving us all the details - from her offer and marketing strategy to how things went and what she’ll do differently next time. She’s even included a link to her sales page for you to take a peek at!

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/061

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Get ready to be inspired! Carolyn Fong, Posy Quarterman, Sarah Sido, and Maryam Salassi are on the show talking about their creative solutions to Covid restrictions that they’ve introduced in their businesses, and even if these aren’t the right solutions for you and your business, they’re bound to get the wheels turning.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/060

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Martin Knowles and I chat about adding a new business line and business model to your existing brand without rocking the boat.

Show notes: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/059

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I don’t know ANYONE who wouldn’t benefit from a real win at the end of this insane year, so in this episode, I’m announcing that registration is open for an end-of-year challenge I’m putting on, and giving you all the details you need to know. As the name suggests, this challenge has been designed to earn you big money (at least $1000), but that’s just ONE of the wins… and there are two more after that! Click play for all the details…

Show notes: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/058

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Amy Sanusi and I chat about the enviable but still problematic situation of being fully booked, but still wanting to serve your returning clients. The conversation ranges from good communication to setting boundaries to creating systems that allow you to prioritize returning clients.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/057

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There are a million ways to learn what you need to learn to be a successful photographer - books, youtube videos, online courses, workshops, conferences… even podcasts! But navigating that enormous number of resources can be frustrating, especially when the help you need is either very specific or very broad.

One solution is to find a coach or mentor who has been there and figured things out, and who will work with you individually to help you cut through all the confusion.

Maz Pedersen is one of those coaches, and on this episode, she shares her insights on how to know when hiring a coach is the right move, how the coaching process works, and how to find the right mentor for you.

Show notes: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/059

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Angie Wynne and I discuss whether it’s a good idea to raise your prices when it means that your prices will be higher than those of other local photographers in your area - particularly photographers with more experience.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/055

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Navigating the subject of online privacy can be tricky… we want to be respectful of our clients’ wishes, but we have our own needs, too… particularly the need to share our work in order to get more work. If the threads in online forums are to be believed, my perspective on this subject is rather different from that of most people, but it’s worked well for me for several years, so I figured I’d share it on the podcast.

Show notes: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/054

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Tristen Aque and I discuss the tricky process of getting referrals as a brand new photographer (and not just any old referrals, but bluebird referrals)! If you’re not a brand new photographer, never fear: this episode's got some good food for thought about referral programs in general, too!

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/mm-053

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Bookkeeping is one of those things… you know you need to take care of it, but you’d probably rather not dedicate one minute more than absolutely necessary to it, right? Trust me: I get it. That’s more or less how I feel, too, but today’s conversation is so straightforward, actionable, and filled with great pointers that I PROMISE it’s worth your time!

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/052

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Briana Averwater and I discuss how to break through the inevitable plateaus in business, namely, once you’ve gotten established, moving from “good enough” to truly great.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/mm-051

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FIFTY WHOLE EPISODES!!!

Today’s episode is a quick one where I give the credit for this milestone where it’s due: to YOU.

Thank you so much for tuning in and being part of This Can’t Be That Hard… whether you’re a member of the Facebook Group, are one of my Blueprint Students, or just subscribe and listen. To show my appreciation, I collected and put together 50(+) pieces of photography wisdom from everyone willing to contribute. The compilation turned out - unsurprisingly - to be pretty awesome, so I for one am printing it to hang by my desk! It will be a reminder not only of each important bit of advice contained therein, but also of the fact that there’s a whole community of positive, supportive photographers spread all over the world who are dedicated to making this a more profitable, sustainable industry that we can all love.

If you want a copy of your very own, you can download it below - no email required.

P.S. If you’re feeling inspired to share the love, sharing the poster on social with a link to @thiscantbethat or leaving a review for the show on iTunes would mean the world to me!!!

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Lyndsay McNiff and I discuss the best way to sell her clients on her decision to switch from all-inclusive pricing to the Simple Sales System.

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If navigating your business sometimes feels like going through a maze, that’s because it is. Standing between you and the next big goal or milestone is a series of decisions that can feel very much like turns in a maze - some giving you a short cut to the solution, others leading to a convoluted series of twists and turns. But there’s a secret to the maze that any successful businessperson knows, and that’s what today’s podcast is all about.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/048

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Dana Walsh and I discuss the best way to navigate the minefield that is mini-sessions… setting yourself apart, maintaining your brand, attracting the right clients, and pricing your minis in a way that brings people in the door without sacrificing profit.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/mm-047

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The Family Narrative crew is back on the podcast, and this time we’re talking about finding the right way to allocate the education budget in your business. Do you invest in online courses? In-person workshops? Mentoring programs? Memberships? With so many options (and a thousand teachers for each platform), how do you decide?

Kate Thompson, Posy Quarterman and I chat about our own personal experiences and strategies, and give a bit of insight on how we turned those ideas into the basis for The Family Narrative - the family photography conference and membership site we founded together back in 2016.

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Melissa Jeffcoat and I discuss the best way to introduce a big price jump to the clients you love and don’t want to lose… a necessary and often intimidating step that most of us have to make at least once in a while!

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/mm-045

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Today I’m talking about a sneaky mistake that most of us make at least occasionally - something that seems when we’re doing it like it’s a way to make big changes less risky, but which often derails our efforts entirely. HBS professor Michael Porter calls this particular mistake “straddling,” and as I’ll point out in my examples everyone - from individuals to giant corporations to YOU - is vulnerable… at least if you’re not careful!

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/044

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, Jess Koehler - one of the women who joined me for the CRM roundtable discussion in episode 32 - joins me to talk about questionnaires … what to ask and when.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/mm-043

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I met Amanda Thorson in Australia last summer and we became fast friends - we share a sarcastic sense of humor and a very practical approach to our work - and when I decided to talk about alignment on the podcast, I knew I wanted to have her on as a guest. 

You see, when I talk to photographers about the three successful models, nearly everyone immediately self-identifies as a workhorse or a unicorn. The only examples of a donkey business we seem to think of are the Olan Mills’ and the Lifetouches of the world. But Amanda runs a highly successful donkey model portrait studio, and one look at her work will prove to you that she most DEFINITELY isn’t some mall pop-up photographer. Today I’m thrilled to chat with her and have her share all the details of why she chose that model and how it works for her.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/042

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, I talk with Paige Daniels about marketing your business - best practices and how to know if they’re working.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/041

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In 2019, I gave a talk at The Family Narrative called “Creating a Business that Feeds Your Soul (and Your Family)”. My initial intention was to put together a talk on pricing, but the more I thought about it, the more I felt like the talk needed to be about alignment. Pricing, after all, isn’t a one-size-fits-all thing… but in order to work, pricing DOES need to be in alignment with your business model and your market.

This episode is the second part of that talk, covering the five areas of your business that need to be aligned in order to be successful (check out Episode 38 for part one if you haven’t listened already).

To go with these episodes, I’ve created a MONSTER download that will guide you through the alignment process, with questions, examples, and a summary of the important parts of both episodes.

Show notes: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/040

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, I talk with Carolyn Soling about how it’s still possible to make time for your business while quarantining at home with kids.

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In 2019, I gave a talk at The Family Narrative called “Creating a Business that Feeds Your Soul (and Your Family)”. My initial intention was to put together a talk on pricing, but the more I thought about it, the more I felt like the talk needed to be about alignment. Pricing, after all, isn’t a one-size-fits-all thing… but in order to work, pricing DOES need to be in alignment with your business model and your market.

Over the course of this episode and next, I’m presenting a modified version of that talk that I hope you’ll enjoy (AND find helpful). Today, I’m talking about the three aligned business models that can work, and three misaligned models that often fail.

Show notes: www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/038

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, I talk with Ana Vallejo about the challenges of getting started in a big, oversaturated market.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/037

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Cornell Watson may be relatively new to photography, but he’s already making huge waves in the industry… not just with his stunning family photos, but also with his message. And it was a combination of those two things that recently helped Cornell land a solo museum exhibition - something very few photographers ever achieve, much less within two years of the start of their careers.

Today, Cornell and I talk about how the opportunity for the show came about, the concept he came up with, and the execution of that concept. Whether or not you’ve ever been interested in having your work featured in a gallery or museum, you’re not going to want to miss this.

Please note - between the time that this podcast was recorded and the time that it aired, the museum hosting the show had to change the dates/format of the exhibit due to ongoing Covid restrictions. As of August, 2020, the plan is for the exhibit to run in November of 2020.

In the meantime, you can - and should -find Cornell here and here (and be sure to check out some outtakes from the show below).

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/036

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, I chat with Andrea de Anda about the challenges (and opportunities!) involved in relocating your business across the country.

Andrea is a wedding and family photographer (soon-to-be) based in Atlanta, GA. You can find her here and here.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/035

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This month marks the tenth anniversary of when I officially started my photography business, and there are so many lessons I’ve learned in the ten years since. Ten years ago, the opportunities for online education were pretty meager and podcasts really weren’t a thing, so a lot of the choices I made were based on little more than instinct… and some of those instincts were wildly misguided!

I’m taking this anniversary opportunity to talk about the 10 biggest lessons I've learned in my 10 years as a family photographer - these are basically the top 10 things I wish I could go back and tell my 31-year-old self when I was starting my business. I figure if I can help any of you avoid some of my mistakes, I am all in for that!

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/034

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, I chat with Rachel Castro about two problem clients she’s currently dealing with - what to do now, and how to prevent similar issues in the future.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/033

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Part 2 of the series All Things CRM features a conversation among 7 professional photographers who use 7 different CRMs. We talk about how we each use our CRMs, we compare features, and we deep dive on how using our CRMs has affected our businesses (and made us money)!

Joining me today is my co-host/strategist for this series, Colie James, along with Sheena Magnesen, Kali Kraum, Jess Koehler, Kendra Greenberg, and Maryam Salassi.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/032

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In this episode of Mini Mentoring, I chat with Kayla Kohn about the strategies and benefits of adding print sales to your business.

Kayla is a family and newborn photographer based in Lawrence, KS. You can find her here and here.

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Today’s topic is so awesome, I couldn’t fit it into a single episode… or handle it all by myself!

Colie James has helped me put together a two-part series on All Things CRM (that’s Customer Relationship Manager, if you don’t know). CRMs are a GAME-CHANGER in your business, and in Part 1, Colie and I talk about what they are and the power they hold.

Even if you already use a CRM, this series is worth your time: I’ve been using one for six years and I learned about a whole bunch of features that exist out there about which I had NO CLUE.

Colie is a documentary photographer and filmmaker based in Boulder, CO. You can find her here and here.

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In the very first episode of Mini Mentoring, I talk to Kendra Greenberg about how to find a new client base after she significantly increased her prices.

Show notes: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/mm-029

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We’ve all had bad customer service experiences (I had a doozy last week which was actually the inspiration for today’s podcast), and I believe most of us strive to give really GOOD customer service… but when it comes down to it, what does that mean? Giving your work away? Freaking out if you haven’t heard back from a client that they’re thrilled? Letting pushy clients walk all over you? No, no, and heeeelllll no.

Today I’m teaching how the best defense against a problem is a good offense, and a five step approach to managing problems when they do arise (as they always will).

Show notes: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/028

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As photographers, we generally don’t have very complex business models. Once we learn some basic systems and strategies, it seems like everything should just fall into place. The big stumbling blocks for a lot of us - things like pricing, marketing, selling, workflow - those things are all pretty technically straightforward.

So why is it that we get stuck? Caro Cuinet-Wellings is a French photographer with a background in education, and today she’s sharing some invaluable - and very practical - insight on the differences between fixed and growth mindsets, and how you can train yourself to recognize and approach the speed bumps in your own business in a much more effective way.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/027

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Product sales are SO important when it comes to running a professional and profitable photography business - not to mention one of the cornerstones of the Simple Sales System - but they’re also a pretty big hurdle for a lot of photographers, either because they’re not currently offering products and don’t know where to start, or because they’ve been trying to offer products but haven’t seen much success. Today I’m diving into five strategies for choosing, pricing, and delivering products that will help transform your product sales into a strong source of revenue and client satisfaction!

Show notes: www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/026

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Despite the fact that Pinterest marketing can be an incredibly powerful tool for photographers, it’s largely overlooked or misunderstood. Today on the podcast, Pinterest marketing expert Carolina Guzik shares the reasons why we should all consider Pinterest to grow the number of photography leads we get, covers the anatomy of a great marketing pin, and offers listeners a free download covering how you can turn Pinterest into a traffic-generating machine in three steps. With just a little effort (she says she only spends about an hour a month on Pinterest), you can see real growth on this free and underutilized platform!

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Even during a regular year, summer can be a hard time for me to stay motivated about pushing my business forward, and god knows this year has been anything BUT regular! For many photographers, this is one of the most important times of year for your business, because it’s the time that you connect (or reconnect) with potential clients to ensure that they remember to book you when the time is right!

Today’s podcast is all about email marketing for photographers, which - done right - is one of the cheapest and most effective ways to fill your calendar with sessions. We’ll talk about why email marketing is smart, how to get a list started (or revive a cold list), and how to plan for a year’s worth of content in just an hour!

(Oooh, and I’ve got a brand new freebie for you, too! You can find that at thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/024)

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This is a short episode designed to help you get a big-picture view of your business. Whether you’re brand new or have been in business for years, one of the harder things to do - especially as someone in a one-person business - is to keep an eye on the big picture as you necessarily navigate the day to day minutia. The big picture is important, though, and the way I look at it is by breaking it into four main quadrants.

Today, I’m talking about what those four quadrants are, how they fit together, and what I’m focusing on here at This Can’t Be That Hard.

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This episode was pre-recorded a couple of weeks ago - before George Floyd was murdered. I considered postponing the drop date and focusing on more pressing issues this week, but although current events and the conversation around them has changed, my chat with Nick North focused on a topic that happens to be highly relevant to business owners right now, and that topic is messaging.

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Feeling outraged by what is going on right now? Good. Now is the time for action, and today’s podcast is about fundraising, which is one way you can turn your outrage into something meaningful. As a photographer, you have a useful set of skills - this is a short guide to help you think through how to put them to work to raise money. If you are unsure what to fundraise FOR, you will find a brief list of just a few of the well-vetted organizations that merit your consideration in the show notes.

There are many more important voices out there right now than mine, so I’m just going to put this out there and shut up. Let’s get to work.

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Today’s episode is filled with big words and big ideas, which will come as no surprise if you’re familiar with Yan Palmer. Yan is a film photographer based in Utah, and although our conversation was focused on the push and pull of business and art, we ended up talking about quite a bit more than that as well. I love this episode and I know you will, too.

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There are very few one-size-fits-all rules when it comes to pricing your photography, but there is at least one:

It is ALWAYS better to calculate and charge the correct amount per session - even if you’re not booking enough sessions to meet your overall income goals - than it is to charge less than the correct amount - even if it means you book more sessions.

In today’s podcast, I explain why that rule is universal, then talk you through the steps you need to take if you’re not charging enough per session to get your business on the road to success.

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Leslie Kershaw is a documentary family photographer in Washington, D.C.

I first met Leslie Kershaw through The Family Narrative - she was one of the teachers at our very first conference in 2017, and over the course of the three years that I’ve known her, I’ve always been so impressed… not just by her work (which is incredible), but by what has always struck me as her incredibly strong internal compass.

As creatives and entrepreneurs, I think most of us struggle to stay focused, to prioritize, and to know when to say no, but Leslie always seems to have a clear path, and follows it 100%. She balances the demands of a successful photography business, a full-time job working for a pharmacy association, and life as a wife and mother of three all with incredible grace.

My original intent when I asked Leslie to be on the show was to find out more about how she did that, but our conversation going deeper. In today’s episode, in addition to talking about boundaries, Leslie and I chat about

• adjusting to the new reality of Coronavirus and its effect on our ability to manage our time and be productive
• mindfulness
• commercial and stock photography
• and so much more

You can see Leslie’s work at lesliekershaw.com, and on IG @lesliekershawphoto or @lesliekershaw

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Last summer, I created a program designed to protect me and my business from an unforeseen event that might prevent me from working for a period of time… I was thinking of a broken leg or some other kind of short-term disability situation. But in an incredibly fortunate, timely way, that program has protected me and my family financially during the Covid-19 outbreak when, like the rest of you, I haven’t been able to work.

Today, I’m detailing that program and inviting you to join me for a workshop I’m creating to teach you exactly how you can do the same.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/017

Workshop info: thiscantbethathard.com/club

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Despite what you may think, your job as a photographer is not making amazing photos. Your job is to help your clients transform  in some way, or experience a feeling that they want or need to feel, and the tool that you use to create that transformation or experience that feeling is your amazing photos.

But making amazing photos is just one part of that job.

This week on the podcast, I'm going to talk about the job we think we have versus the job that we actually have, and then once we've defined our actual job, we're going to talk about what it takes to do our job in a way that creates loyal, raving fans.

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One of the most common things that I hear from my listeners is that they feel bombarded.

Whether they have their own goals or are being told by others that they need to buy this or offer that... there's no shortage of ideas, but they get stuck in analysis paralysis about what their next step should be.

Unfortunately, there's no one size fits all answer to that question, but there is a one size fits all approach that you can use to help you figure out what your personal next steps should be, and that's what we're talking about today on the podcast.

show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/015

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What assumptions are you making that are hurting you and your photography business?

Assumptions may be a necessary part of the way we navigate the world, but if this past few weeks has taught us anything, it's that assumptions can also be dangerous.

Today I want to talk about some of the more harmful assumptions that you may be making so that we can flip the script and open up some possibilities in your life and your business.

Show notes at www.thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/014

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Over the past few weeks, I have caught myself many times thinking "Ah, I cannot wait for things to get back to normal". And then sometime last week, it hit me like a ton of bricks.

Things are not going back to normal. We are not going to go back to pre-COVID 19 life anytime soon. So, I have been doing some thinking about what that means and that is what I want to talk to you about in today's podcast.

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Today I have two of my super-besties on the podcast - Kate Thompson and Posy Quarterman, who are my co founders of The Family Narrative and also happen to be two of my very best friends - and I'm really excited to share our conversation today. I have been planning all along to have them on the podcast periodically because I find our conversations about the state of the industry to be really good even under normal circumstances. But as it turns out, the timing of today's conversation made it so that we get to sort of decompress a little bit together and go through what is going on in all of our heads around the impact of Covid-19 on our individual businesses, and on the industry as a whole.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/012

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I will be completely honest: this last week has been a little less productive than I had initially hoped. I think I had my sights set on taking advantage of some extra space in my schedule to get some really big things done, but I have been in something of a fog. And if you're like me or most of the people who I'm chatting with on social media, you feel that way too.

And here's the thing: we all need to give ourselves some grace for all of that. But I wanted to record today's podcast in response to some of issues that I'm seeing in certain circles of our industry, and then I want to talk about how you can actually use this time to come out stronger on the other side.

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I could not be more excited to share today's interview with you. As you know, it is my very first time interviewing someone for the podcast and who better to interview than the fabulous Elena S. Blair!

I first got to know Elena because she taught for us at the Family Narrative in 2019. Elena is a woman who is a self taught photographer with no background in business, much like a lot of us, who went against a lot of industry norms and never let the naysayers stop her from following her dreams and who now runs an extremely profitable and very sustainable business that she loves.

I want to be sure that you stick around to the end because not only does Elena drop a huge amount of great information, she's also got a great freebie to share with all of you too. And we're going to share that at the end. So, without any further ado, let's dive in.

Show notes: thiscantbethathard.com/podcast/009

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I am recording this on Monday for release first thing Tuesday morning. And so you're not going to get a whole lot of fancy editing (not that you normally do anyway). I am doing this on the fly because I know that a lot of you are understandably feeling very lost and concerned about what you can do in the coming weeks and months to potentially make up for some of the lost income happening in the form of canceled sessions or weddings.

I wanted to share what I’m doing, because I think that it's the sort of thing that anyone could do… and maybe you will. Of course I can't promise that it will have any effect, but it might mitigate the damage at least a little bit.

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Today’s podcast is going to be a little different. I’m going to be sharing a series of messages that I was exchanging over the last few days with one of my Simple Sales Blueprint students. I wanted to share this exchange because it has taken me on a highly emotional journey that started with empathy, which then morphed into white hot anger, and which I am now resolved to channeling into action.

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Today, we’re talking about 3 tools that I believe have the power to benefit every single photographer’s business, full-stop. I realize that is a pretty lofty promise, but I feel pretty strongly about it, and I'm excited to tell you why on today’s episode.

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One of the biggest perks of being an entrepreneur is that you get to carve your own path. You get to make all the decisions without having to have any meetings or pitch anybody about anything. It can be exhilarating to be free to have an idea and execute it without anyone stopping you. The only downside is that there's nobody there to guarantee that your path is going to lead anywhere, much less where you want it to… You and you alone are in the driver's seat. Today, we’re going to talk about making smart decisions while forging your path.

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One of the biggest frustrations that I hear from a lot of photographers is that they are struggling to market their businesses effectively.

So, today I'm going to talk about the biggest mistake that I see most photographers making in their marketing strategy, and how a simple mindset shift can help make your marketing become much more effective.

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The core of our success as small business owners and photographers is the concept of trust. Trust - or lack of trust - affects pretty much every piece of our business. By being aware of that and actively cultivating it, we can take a much more active role in our success instead of waiting around wondering when it's going to happen.

Developing trust with our clients and our wider audience is the first step in paving the way to a successful business. And today, I'm going to talk about how you can do that.

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I hardly know a single photographer who hasn't stressed and struggled over pricing at some point or another. And the truth is that most photographers continue to stress and struggle about it a lot longer than necessary.

In today's episode, we're taking the phrase "charge your worth" and throwing it out the window.

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As artists who create custom work, we don't have the same ability as some other entrepreneurs to scale our businesses.

It's like we're on a hamster wheel… if we want to make more money, we have to do more work.

Right?

Well, sort of. Although custom photography may not be scalable in the same way that manufacturing widgets is, I have two suggestions that I believe will help you create a more sustainable business model.

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Have you ever looked at another photographer’s website or Instagram feed and said to yourself, "How in the world is that photographer booking more work than I am?"

Or "How is that photographer making more money than I am?"

If you have, then this is the podcast for you. It's my goal to deliver real world, actionable business strategies each week to help your photography business thrive.

You started your business with the dream of earning a living while doing something that you love, right? Let's make that dream a reality!