Freedom Focus Photography

274 - You’ve heard it before: “People do business with those they know, like, and trust.” But Tracy Goodwin is here to flip that script.  According to Tracy, trust isn’t enough anymore—it’s all about connection and authenticity. In this episode, we dive deep into how your voice shapes the client experience, influences their decisions, and can even increase your income by up to 90%!  This is a must...

273 - Are you ready to supercharge your photography business?  This week, I’m chatting with Tanya Smith, a portrait photographer and educator who went from struggling with $600 shoots to building a system that generated almost $400K in just one year.  We’re breaking down the most effective marketing strategies—think partnerships, in-person connections, and consistent follow-ups—that photographers...

This episode originally aired on August 2024.   256 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, join me as we welcome back Kerry Jordan.  She bravely opens up about a major block that’s been affecting her work for decades - a feeling of being disingenuous selling luxury artwork to private clients and being particularly uncomfortable with the sales process around upselling products...

This episode originally aired on July 2024. 250 - Welcome to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast!  In this special episode, we're kicking off a three-part series dedicated to one of the most exciting and requested topics: travel hacking.  If you've ever dreamed of traveling for free or at a fraction of the cost, you're in the right place. Today, we'll explore how to leverage...

This episode originally aired on March 2024. Welcome to another episode of the Creative Freedom Rebellion - a podcast series within the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, hosted by Nicole Begley and J. Nichole Smith, AKA Nic.   Through the past 10+ years of mentoring pet photographers, we’ve noticed that the “why” of many pet photographers falls into one of three buckets.  The love of art, the goa...

272 - Do you need to perfect your photography skills before diving into business? Or can you grow both at the same time?  Shelley Paulson, one of the leading equine photographers in the world, joins me for a deep-dive debate on what comes first: business growth or mastering your craft. We share personal stories, mentor tips, and strategies to help photographers create a balance between technical e...

271 - Ever felt stuck mid-session, wondering, "What pose should I try next?" You’re not alone!  In today’s episode, I share my go-to strategies for posing dogs and their humans—perfect for pet photographers and anyone who works with furry friends. Plus, grab a free download of six posing cards to keep your creativity flowing! What to Listen For: Why taking a break during a session isn’t...

270 - Is your photography business stuck on repeat?  Stuck on repeat in a place that’s short of your goals? You’re not alone. Nicole Begley and Heather Lahtinen are here to share why technical perfection isn’t enough and how it’s the intangible that shifts everything. If you’re ready to create a thriving boutique business, this is the episode you can’t miss. What to Listen For: Why “perfecting you...

269 - Raise your hand if you've ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of setting up a CRM for your photography business.  In this episode, Nicole shares why you might not need one after all—and how simple, effective alternatives can help streamline your workflow and keep you focused on what you love: creating beautiful images for your clients. What to Listen For: What a CRM is and the key feature...

268 - Mini sessions—are they a blessing or a curse?  In today’s episode, we’ll explore why mini sessions might be your secret weapon to ensure a full calendar for 2025.  Discover the dos and don'ts of running these sessions, why naming them matters, and the simple tweaks to make them profitable without cutting corners. Let’s make your mini sessions work harder for you. What to Listen For: The...

267 - What if I told you that your photography business doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s?  Today, Heather and I break down how we've navigated massive shifts in our businesses and how you can, too. Whether you’re thinking about making a big pivot or you're just curious about what’s possible, we’ve got you covered with practical advice, personal stories, and some hearty laughs alon...

266 - Are you hesitant to share your photography with the world?  You’re not alone! In this episode, I’m chatting with Heather Lahtinen and we’re digging into the reasons why photographers often hold back from sharing their work. Whether it's fear of judgment or worry about being copied, they share actionable advice on how to overcome these mental roadblocks and start showcasing your art with...

265 - Ready to take your photography business to the next level? In this episode, we dive deep into the world of SEO with the talented Melissa Arlena, who has successfully used SEO to grow her business and switch from weddings to newborn photography.  Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your online visibility, Melissa shares her strategies to help photographers stand out online....

264 - Have you ever dreamed of ditching the corporate grind to follow your passion? That’s exactly what today’s guest, Cassidy Brooke, did!  Cassidy left her 9-5 insurance job, picked up her Nikon, and created a thriving equine photography business.  Join us as Cassidy walks through her journey of building a career she loves and shares advice on everything from dealing with competition to balancin...

263 - Feeling the line between hobbyist and professional is a little blurry? Well, you're not alone! In this episode, I'm chatting with Mark Rossetto about what truly defines a professional photographer and how you can elevate your business—yes, even if you're part-time.  Get ready to dive deep into everything from pricing strategies to creating unforgettable client experiences that...

262 - Let’s get real: we all have responsibilities and obstacles that can make growing a photography business feel impossible.  In today’s episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, we’re looking beyond the typical “thought work” and addressing real-life situations that may be limiting your time and energy.  Listen in as we explore how to challenge these circumstances, from busy schedules t...

261 - If you’ve ever wondered how SEO can truly impact your photography business, this episode is for you! Join me and SEO expert Connor Walberg as we explore the myths surrounding SEO, how AI is influencing search results, and why creating valuable content is more important than ever.  Get ready for some game-changing tips that will help you attract more clients and grow your online presence. Wha...

260 - Photographers, let’s talk about a common trap: thinking that taking better photos is the answer to getting more clients. On today’s episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, Heather Lahtinen joins me to discuss why focusing solely on improving your photography isn’t a marketing strategy—and how this flawed thinking could be holding you back from booking more clients and hitting your...

259 - In this episode of the Freedom Focused Photography podcast, I sit down with the incredibly talented Rebecca Hunicutt from Rebecca Hunnicutt Photography to explore a topic that’s essential for every photographer—diversifying your income.  Rebecca shares her unique journey from a pediatric nurse practitioner to a full-time photographer and educator, offering invaluable insights on how to creat...

258 - In this episode of the Freedom Focused Photography Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome back Jeff Brown, The Photographer's Mentor, for an insightful conversation on how to elevate your photography business by harnessing the power of positivity, gratitude, and strategic visibility.  Jeff shares his unique journey from military photographer to renowned photography mentor, along with p...

256 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, we're diving into one of the most powerful tools in business: storytelling.  If you’ve ever struggled to connect with your clients or wondered how to make your website work harder for you, this episode is a must-listen. I’m joined by Karen Bartos, a certified StoryBrand Guide, who’s here to help us unravel the secrets of crafting...

256 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, join me as we welcome back Kerry Jordan.  She bravely opens up about a major block that’s been affecting her work for decades - a feeling of being disingenuous selling luxury artwork to private clients and being particularly uncomfortable with the sales process around upselling products after the session.   She knew that this was root...

255 - If you’ve been feeling the weight of a slow season or just need a little boost in your business (and mindset), this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast is for you. I’ve got Johl Dunn back on the podcast, and we’re diving deep into some game-changing strategies that can help you navigate tough times, overcome stress, and shift your mindset to keep your creativity and business thr...

254 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, your host Nicole Begley dives into the exciting world of high school senior photography with special guest Dan Frievalt from Frievalt Photography. Whether you’re interested in photographing high school seniors or not - this episode is still full of applicable tips for ANY genre! Dan shares his journey of niching down, the challenges o...

253 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, we welcome Kerry Jordan from Fur and Fables Photography. Kerry shares her incredible journey of pivoting from private client photography to a thriving commercial pet photography business. Discover the challenges and rewards Kerry faced during this transition and gain valuable insights into the psychological barriers that often come wi...