#270: 12 Years in Photography: Rachel's Path from $600 Sessions to $4,000 Sales

If you’re serious about growing your photography business (and I mean really growing it) not staying stuck in the shoot-and-burn cycle… This new episode is a can’t miss! When I finally cracked six figures in my business, it wasn’t because I had more followers, ran ads, or had a studio. It was because I got laser-focused on three key numbers that told me exactly what was working… and what wasn’t. I’m giving you real, boutique-friendly numbers you can plug into your business today to start building a more profitable, sustainable photography career.  If you’re ready to stop guessing and start scaling with strategy, not hustle, I’ll meet you in this week’s episode! RESOURCES: Show Notes: Click here. Episode Transcript: Click here. 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

If you've ever packed up your gear, driven an hour to a session, worked your magic, came home to edit into the night, and then got paid something that barely covers gas and groceries…    This week’s Joycast is going to hit home.    Rachel’s been in business 12 years. She lives on a farm. Her days include feeding animals, raising a family, and her photography business. For years, her sessions barely paid off. She was doing all the things (minis, digitals, discounts) and still felt stuck.    In this new episode, Rachel opens up about how she slowly (and imperfectly) went from $600 sessions to a whopping $4,000 portrait order. Plus:   How to finally let go of discounts and start owning your value What mindset shift gets you unstuck (There’s no going back at this point) The secret to making your boutique model click for you (and your clients)   Grab your coffee, take a walk, and press play on this one. You deserve a business that works with your life like Rachel. RESOURCES: Show Notes: Click here. Episode Transcript: Click here. 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

If you’re tired of awkward sales pitches and sliding into potential client’s DMs just to get ghosted, this week’s Joycast is something special just for you.   In this new episode, I break down the “7-11-4 Framework.” A coveted method photographers use to build trust and visibility using everyday places you're already showing up at. Think pizza fundraisers, yoga class, Target runs, or after school events.   We discuss: What the “7-11-4 Framework” is and why it works wonders for photographers How to turn casual interactions into client bookings Real examples of using errands and local events as marketing advantages Why you don’t need to be pushy to be profitable   If you’ve ever felt awkward “selling” yourself, this episode will give you a confident way to grow your business without sacrificing your family time or sanity. RESOURCES: Show Notes: Click here. Episode Transcript: Click here. 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

What if your next client isn’t scrolling on Instagram but standing behind you at school pickup or laying on the yoga mat next to yours?   On this week’s Joycast, I’m walking you through why paid ads often flop and how to replace them with something way more personal and effective: the 7-11-4 framework.   Inside this episode, you’ll learn:   Why social media ads are designed for big brands (not boutique photographers) A simpler marketing approach that grows with you (not against you) How to use errands to stay visible, build trust, and attract ideal clients If you’re tired of burning money on unpredictable social media ads, this episode is for you! RESOURCES: Show Notes: Click here. Episode Transcript: Click here. 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

After 15 years of undercharging and hiding behind text, pet photographer Sandy hit her limit. Tired of selling from her wallet and burned out on fear-pricing, she decided it was time for a change. If you’re stuck in self-doubt, afraid to raise prices (or dodging client calls for emails) this week’s Joycast will provide the clarity you’re craving.    Join us as we discuss:   The cost of staying small and how to finally let go Why accountability and structure were Sally’s missing pieces How to turn fear into confidence for larger sales The power of printed artwork and why clients want it more than files   Your work deserves to be seen, valued, and paid well for. It’s time you step into the business you were meant to lead. RESOURCES: Show Notes: Click here. Episode Transcript: Click here. 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

This week we’re busting the “all debt is bad” myth and setting the record straight! If no one has told you this before, I’ll happily be the first:    Borrowing money doesn’t mean you’re behind, it means you’re building.   In this new episode, we’re kicking shame, blame, and guilt to the curb for a fresh, feel-good way to look at growing your photography business. Here’s a sneak peek:   5 head-trash myths about loans that keep photographers stuck (including “I’ll wait until I can pay cash” and “Needing a loan means I’ve failed”)   How to treat a loan like an investment because putting $1 in and getting $3 out isn’t debt, it’s growth!   The banker who might just change your life (and how to find one who cheers for your business as hard as I do.)   2 simple steps you can take this week to get set up for the kind of growth that feels doable, exciting, and not overwhelming.   You don’t have to hustle harder or wait until everything’s “perfect” to grow.    If you’re ready to invest in yourself and your business (but need a little guidance to get there) this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you’ve been craving. RESOURCES: Show Notes: Click here. Episode Transcript: Click here. 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

  RESOURCES: Show Notes: Click here. Episode Transcript: Click here. 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

Does it feel like you're doing everything “right” as a photographer like hustling hard, offering mini sessions, delivering digital files, yet you're still scraping by?    This week on the Joycast, I’m sharing the story of Sarah Lang Schroeder. She’s a pet photographer who spent over a decade dabbling while juggling a full-time job.   Sarah thought success meant saying “yes” to everything but after one change, she was able to ditch perfectionism, embrace action, and build a profitable business that brings her true joy.   Join us as we talk through:   Why imperfect action beats perfect inaction every single time How ditching mini sessions led to a $1,798 sale (yes, from ONE session!) What finally gave Sarah the confidence to go all-in    If you’ve ever felt too scared to believe this business could work for you, this episode is the proof you need to move forward. RESOURCES: Show Notes: Click here. Episode Transcript: Click here. 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

You booked the session, nailed the shoot, and now it’s time to… Sell. 😬 If you're like most photographers I coach, this is the moment where your confidence fizzles. This week on the Joycast, I’m revealing the final two blinders that hold photographers back from profit. These are the differences between barely scraping by and creating a client experience that leaves everyone (yes, even you!) crying happy tears. Join me as I share: Why fewer, better images create more impact and more sales The simple order-of-operations that can make your slideshow irresistible How emotional storytelling transforms your work into fine art (and justifies boutique pricing) If you’ve ever dreaded the sales part of your business or felt overwhelmed trying to “do it all,” this episode is your guide to more joy, confidence, and a surplus of clients saying “Yes!” RESOURCES: Show Notes: Click here. Episode Transcript: Click here. 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

You’ve spent years building a photography business: the bookings, the workflow, the income. But what happens when the version of success you built no longer aligns with the life you’re living? This week on the Joycast, Kayla Brint opens up about the unraveling that led her to step away from her booming portrait studio. Not because she failed, but because she changed. Join us as we discuss: The role grief, motherhood, and burnout play in reshaping your definition of success Why trusting your gut can lead to a more meaningful career How to know when it’s time to pivot, even if everything looks great on the outside If you’re craving permission to make a change or lead your passion with deeper intention, Kayla’s story will meet you right where you are. RESOURCES: Show Notes: Click here. Episode Transcript: Click here. 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756