Afleveringen

  • On this episode of The Profitable Photographer with Luci Dumas, I chat with Scott Wyden Kivowitz, a talented photographer, educator, and storyteller who has mastered the art of surprise proposal photography. As the Community Manager and podcast host at Imagen (an AI editing program), Scott balances his roles as a father of two, husband, photographer, and host of the “Workflows Photography Podcast”.

    Scott’s journey into proposal photography began during the pandemic and has since become a passion, blending his love for storytelling with his commitment to delivering unforgettable client experiences.

    Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:

    • Scott’s secrets to capturing those high-stakes moments in proposal photography.

    • Why preparation and having the right gear—like dual cameras—are crucial for success.

    • How Scott balances photography with his role at Imagen, offering tools like personalized photo editing, culling, and cloud backup.

    • Why he encourages photographers to embrace In-Person Sales (IPS) for higher profits and better client service.

    • The importance of using a CRM for organizing workflows and staying efficient.

    And since his passion is helping people master their workflow, we also discuss ways to create more time in our lives for both the business and our personal lives.

    Scott’s ability to teach in a straightforward, easy-to-understand way shines throughout the episode, and he even shares tips on using Imagine, with an exclusive link for 1,500 free edits. Whether you're curious about proposal photography or looking to streamline your business, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice.

    Check his goodies out at https://imagen-ai.com/https://www.facebook.com/groups/imagenaihttps://www.instagram.com/imagen.ai/https://www.instagram.com/scottwyden

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • Where in the world would you love to photograph clients and get paid really well for your photography including all your expenses? Paris? Costa Rica? New Zealand?

    I loved my conversation with Denise Watrous who has built a wonderful business that includes traveling to amazing locations. She reveals so much about how you can do the same.

    She is an award wining, Certified Professional Photographer from Waukesha, Wisconsin, Denise is a master of destination portraits, blending her passion for travel with her talent for creating vibrant, personalized portraits.

    We dive into:

    • The secrets behind her stunning destination portraits.

    • How she tackles the challenges of on-location lighting and logistics.

    • What it takes to price and plan travel-based photography sessions.

    • Why senior portraits hold a special place in her heart (hint: it started with her kids!).

    • The gear she swears by for on-location shoots.

    Denise’s love for storytelling through portraiture and her adventurous spirit will inspire you to dream big and explore new horizons. Whether you’re ready to take your work global or just looking to up your on-location game, this episode is for you!

    Connect with Denise:

    [email protected]@watrousphotographyhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/155347079275408

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
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  • Hey there, fabulous podcast listeners. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Maria Arellano, a Fine Art Photographer based in Houston, Texas, who’s been creating magic since 2015. Maria has this incredible gift for helping women see themselves as the stunning, powerful goddesses they are—no matter their size, shape, or story.

    In this episode, we’ll chat about:

    • Why boudoir photography makes Maria’s heart sing (spoiler: it’s all about confidence and celebration!)

    • How she creates a safe, empowering space for plus-size clients to shine

    • The art (and hustle) of balancing two specialties like a total pro

    • Maria’s genius strategies for building a loyal, raving community—from goddess-themed shoots to her unforgettable client prom nights

    Maria also dishes on why she doesn’t sell herself but chooses her clients—and trust me, it’s a game-changer.

    Maria doesn’t just take photos; she crafts experiences. And get this—clients literally fly in from all over to work with her! Plus, she’s a mentor for other photographers, helping them find their own magic and build thriving businesses.

    If you’ve ever doubted your beauty or wondered how to truly connect with your clients, this episode is your sign. Let’s go!

    Connect with and check out Maria’s stunning work at…

    maribellaportraits@gmail.comMaribellaportraits.comGoddessbyMaribella.com

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • Hey, it's Luci Dumas, and today’s solo episode is a little different because I am sort of “journaling” about my experiences around the topic and looking for my own answers as I explore a topic that’s been on my mind lately: motivation. Specifically, how we can find it, sustain it, and even question whether we always need it. Is it okay to just be sometimes? To live a simpler life without constantly striving for the next big thing? It's a big question, and one that I’ve been pondering deeply.

    As I thought about motivation, I kept coming back to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. You might remember it from a psychology class—it’s that pyramid of five human needs. It got me wondering: can understanding these levels help us reignite our drive when it feels like the spark is fading?

    In this episode, I break down each level of Maslow’s pyramid:

    • The basics like food and shelter.

    • Our need for safety and security.

    • The desire for connection and belonging.

    • Building self-esteem and feeling accomplished.

    • And finally, the quest for self-actualization—living our best, most fulfilling life.

    I’ll share some thoughts on how these needs might be influencing your motivation—or lack of it. Plus, we’ll tackle that ever-present voice saying, “I should be doing more,” and decide if it’s always true. Spoiler: sometimes it’s okay to give yourself grace.

    Some of the ideas on how to become or stay motivated I explore are suggestions to

    • Identify the Blockages:

    • Set Goals Aligned with Your Needs:

    • Reflect and Reassess:

    • Leverage Higher Levels for Inspiration

    Tune in for a mix of self-reflection, practical tips, and maybe even a spark to get you motivated—or at least, to help you feel okay with where you are right now.

    Be sure to check out www.lucidumascoaching.com and feel free to book a 20 minute chat

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • In this episode of The Profitable Photographer, I’m thrilled to catch up with Kelly Warkentin, a lifestyle family photographer in Vancouver, Canada, mom of three, and one of my proudest coaching success stories. Kelly has not only built a thriving photography business but also created a work-life balance that lets her focus on her family and her clients.

    When we started working together, Kelly was selling digital files for hundreds of dollars. Through my training program (and her hard work implementing the strategies), she discovered the power of selling heirloom art and albums in person, transforming her sales into thousands. Now, she’s adapted my system to develop her own Virtual IPS approach, helping busy photographers serve their clients with exceptional care while reclaiming their time.

    Here’s what we cover:

    How Kelly transitioned from traditional sales to Virtual IPS to avoid burnout. Why personalized connection and service are game-changers in luxury photography. Outsourcing tips to lighten your load and grow your income. Simple yet effective strategies for balancing a successful business with family life.

    Kelly’s story is a testament to the power of mentorship, innovation, and courage. Tune in for actionable insights and plenty of inspiration!

    Reach out to and join her private group

    “Virtual IPS for portrait photographers on Facebook”

    [email protected]

    KellyWarkentin.com/chat

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • I’m so excited to welcome Linda Carroll to the podcast! Linda is a Certified Professional Photographer, Photographic Craftsman, and Portrait Artist who has been capturing beautiful moments and inspiring others for decades. Her studio in Kennesaw, Georgia, specializes in family and portrait photography, and her approach to “Capturing Life” has made her a beloved figure in the photography community.

    Episode Summary:

    In this conversation, Linda and I explore how she’s kept her passion alive over the years, especially when creativity might need a little spark. She shares practical tips, her favorite resources, and the joy she finds in teaching others.

    Episode Highlights:

    Keeping the Spark Alive – Linda recommends reading The Creative Mind and journaling as tools to nurture inspiration and creative energy.Photo Safaris & Exploration – Taking spontaneous drives and traveling to new places helps Linda see the world in new ways, fueling her passion for photography.The Power of Teaching – Sharing her knowledge with others, especially through her Santa season training and set design workshops, is a major source of joy and inspiration.Timeless Wisdom – Linda reminds us: it’s never too late to start something new or reignite our passion.

    Closing:

    A huge thank you to Linda for sharing her insights, passion, and experience with us! If you’re feeling inspired to connect, please reach out to her for mentorship or just to say hello. And as always, feel free to contact me for coaching, guidance, or any questions about your photography journey!

    [email protected]

    www.lclifephotos.com

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • In this episode, I share how to unlock your potential as a photographer by embracing an abundance mindset!

    If you’ve ever thought, "My clients won’t pay that" or "This just won’t work here," this one's for you. Join me as we explore practical ways to challenge and overcome limiting beliefs and create the business you truly want.

    Some of my one-way conversation (from me to you) includes:

    Common beliefs that may hold photographers back from charging what they’re worth How to identify and connect with clients who value your work Strategies for photographers in smaller communities or niche markets Inspiring stories of photographers who broke through location or pricing barriers Why abundance is about focusing on what you want and staying open to new possibilities

    I hope you take the time to explore your own conclusions or excuses and adopt “new

    and improved” thoughts that will help you be more resourceful and positive about

    how to make your dreams come true!

    Luci

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to chat with Amy Posner, a true trailblazer in the world of online business and coaching. Amy has built six thriving businesses (five are still going strong!) and empowered thousands of freelancers to find their footing and flourish. She shares insights from her course, Complete Breakthrough Freelancer, and her experience as co-host of Business Badassery.

    Find out why she says it’s not them, it’s you….what you are doing that is keeping you from achieving your dreams.

    In our chat, we get into the good stuff:

    • How to attract and keep ideal clients by building genuine relationships

    • How to bring business skills up to the level of your creative ones (the real key to six figures and beyond!)

    • Creating value for clients before they even see a price tag

    • Seeing your clients as partners, so they know they’re in good hands

    • Moving beyond a six-figure income as the ultimate goal to find what truly drives your success

    Amy and I are “kindred spirits” and clicked instantly, and I couldn’t help but wish she lived closer so we could keep these conversations going!

    Enjoy this conversation filled with so many tips for being super successful doing what you love

    And reach out to her here to ask a question or learn about her course and podcast.

    [email protected]

    360-480-3079

    https://amyposner.com/

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • Hey, fans of The Profitable Photographer Podcast! I’m bringing back one of my all-time favorite episodes from 2021 because it’s just that good. If you missed it the first time or need a refresher, this is your chance to hear from Hart Tan, an incredible photographer and entrepreneur from Singapore. Hart is the mastermind behind Tomato, one of the largest photography studios in Singapore, and he’s running a high-volume, seven-figure business he started 12 years ago.

    Hart is not only an award-winning Master Photographer, but he also shares such valuable insights on building a business that’s successful, sustainable, and truly your own. In our conversation, Hart goes beyond photography and dives into what it means to craft a career that works for you—one that brings both success and happiness.

    Here’s what we talk about:

    Building your business like a house: The foundation is key, and it’s what gives you the freedom to grow.Curiosity is your best tool: Always stay curious about what works and what doesn’t.Marketing with intention: Test, measure, and adjust your strategies based on real results.Personal responsibility and problem-solving: Success is a combination of creativity and taking responsibility for your actions.Trust your gut: Not all advice fits. Learn to listen to your inner guidance.Systems are essential: Have a system in place to make everything run smoother.

    Hart’s wisdom is timeless, so if you’re looking to build a thriving business and a fulfilling career, this episode is a must-listen. He’s got a wealth of knowledge, and I know you’ll love what he shares.

    Want to connect with Hart? Check out his video on how much to charge: Watch Here.

    Email: [email protected]: www.tomato.sgFacebook: www.facebook.com/tomato.sg

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • Here we go again...another great guest and conversation on The Profitable Photographer with Luci Dumas! I’m so excited to introduce you to Jen Hargrove, an award-winning fine art photographer specializing in character portraits, pets, children, and abstract waterscapes. With 12 years under her belt, Jen’s earned titles like Master Photographer and Certified Professional Photographer.

    Jen share some eye opening practices that have helped her business success grow through print competitions, and she’s mastered the art of turning mini-sessions into high-profit opportunities. And guess what? These mini- sessions are primarily of men transformed into unique characters like soldiers, firemen, or sea captains. Wives and mothers love these!

    Here’s what you’ll learn:

    Keepsake Sessions: How Jen markets these unique sessions to her clients , turning them into characters like soldiers or sea captains. Making Personal Art Pay: Jen’s strategy for selling her art through boutiques, Etsy, and galleries. Delegating Sales: Why letting go of sales was the best move for her business. Giving Back to Photographers: Jen’s passion for helping fellow photographers and why teaching others is important to her.

    Final thought is that our industry is not saturated. Don’t be afraid to teach others but stay in your lane. She wants to see everybody giving back to other photographers.

    AND she has arranged a contest with Miller’s Color Lab.

    WIN $150 wall art certificate by leaving a comment about this episode on the YouTube video of this episode and I will pick a winner!

    https://jenhargrovephotography.com/ [email protected]

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • Hello new and loyal listeners. This episode is from the “Way Back” machine from 2019. I still have the resistance challenge, and I thought you would enjoy it again as well, or for the first time.

    Are you like me? Are there a million great ideas to help you grow your business, and simple tasks on your "To Do" list that you struggle with completing or even starting?

    This is called "Resistance", everyone experiences it and it can be conquered day by day.

    In this episode, Luci discusses:

    How personal resistance to daily tasks is the enemy of success.What resistance looks like in its many iterations.The value in working with a coach to move through fear and resistance.

    Key Takeaways:

    Personal resistance is a natural part of being a professional artist.Diligently working through a list of defined tasks can set you free.Delegate or hire out time-sucking tasks that don’t generate the most money.

    “Creative work is not a selfish act or a bid for attention on the part of the actor. It's a gift to the world and every being in it. Don't cheat us of your contribution. Give us what you've got.” Steven Pressfield

    References:

    The War of Art - Steven PressfieldTed Talk “How to Stop Screwing Yourself Over” - Mel Robbins

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • In this solo episode, I share my experience shopping for a new purse, and illustrate many of the points I love to share about how to communicate value and create that luxury experience for potential clients. How we can take someone from a warm lead to someone wanting what we offer and are willing to invest well to receive it?

    I needed a new purse. I don’t care about brand names but I like function and quality. After a less-than-stellar experience at Macy’s and a pleasant but almost hands-off visit to Nordstrom, I walked into a Coach store that just has handbags and such, where the display and personal service were on another level. The salesperson listened to my wants and needs, and guided me through a few options, their quality and features, and I found myself falling in love with an item I didn’t even consider in my search.

    It was a masterclass in the art of customer care and becoming a trusted advisor—a lesson every photographer can apply when selling their own work.

    Some of the takeaways to listen for are…•

    Create a Premium Experience: Your environment and presentation is important.Become a Trusted Advisor: Guide clients to the products they’ll love, even if they don’t know it yet.Focus on Value Over Price: Clients should feel the investment is worth it before they ever hear the price.Build Emotional ConnectionsTailor the Experience: Customize your approach to each client for a truly personalized experience.

    Tune in to learn how to elevate your in-person sales and create a luxury experience for your clients, just like Coach did for Luci.

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • In this episode, I have an awesome chat with the super-talented Pete Coco, a successful headshot and portrait photographer. We dive into the nitty-gritty of starting your photography business, and yeah, it can be overwhelming. But Pete’s advice? Don’t worry—just start!

    Pete specializes in headshots and portraits and is based in Garden City, New York, providing high-quality photography services to individuals from various industries, including business professionals, realtors, lawyers, doctors, actors, and models.

    He also is a mentor and has a YouTube channel with 30,000 subscribers, where he talks about photography, gear reviews, and all sorts of things.

    Pete shares so much valuable wisdom, including:

    • The importance of finding a mentor who truly understands your vision.

    • Staying passionate about the type of photography you want to do every day and creating work you love and want to be paid for.

    • Embracing failure as a learning tool, instead of fearing it.

    Pete also introduced us to his "CoCo Trio"—the perfect blend of work, business, and mindset. Mastering all three is essential for success. Plus, he drops some book recommendations like The Motivation Manifesto by Brendon Burchard, Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl, and the Tao Te Ching for extra inspiration.

    His final gem? It’s never too late to start, and your photography doesn’t have to be the best in the world—it just needs to get started. You can catch Pete live at the Imaging Expo in Texas through Professional Photographers of America.

    Bonus: Download any of Pete's free videos, and he’ll share five of his all-time favorite portrait tips!

    PeteCocoPhoto.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/Rqq6EdYUWTd2QDSQ/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petecocophoto/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/petecocophotography

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • Hey lovely listeners! I am delighted to share my conversation with the fabulous Tanya Goodall Smith.

    She has been on the show two other times and this time, she has a wonderful new book we are going to chat about, “The Introvert's Guide To Personal Branding: How To Put Yourself Out There Without Changing Who You Are”. It is a great read and wow, did it open my eyes to the power of introverts in the photography world!

    It also goes deep into the topic of personal branding, which is a great tool to be seen and known without having to do what the extroverts do to get positive attention.

    You can trust her guidance as the founder of WorkStory Creative, an agency that helps introverts who are evolving their business create an elevated brand vision and bring it to life. She has 20 years of experience at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, designing for with international brands like HP, Disney and GUESS. And is a Brand Builder’s Group Certified Personal Branding Strategist.

    Key takeaways from our conversation:

    • Introverts as Superstars: How introverted tendencies can be turned into advantages for success.

    • Famous Introverts: Even some well-known performers and photographers are introverts who've learned to thrive.

    • Overcoming Fear: The fear of being on camera or criticized can be tamed by focusing on the value you're bringing.

    • Feel the Fear & Do It Anyway: Tanya's mantra for introverts looking to step out of their comfort zones.

    • Power of Personal Branding: How a strong brand can communicate for you when you’re not keen on the spotlight.

    As always, thanks for subscribing, commenting, and sharing your thoughts.

    Want to chat? Reach out to me at https://lucidumascoaching.com/. Catch you later, friends!

    To Download the first chapter of her book for free

    https://www.workstorycreative.com/freechapter

    And get in touch with her at www.Workstorycreative.com

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • Hey everyone, it’s me again, Luci Dumas, and in this episode of The Profitable Photographer, I had the pleasure of chatting with architectural photographer Jack Zigon. We dug into the fascinating world of architectural photography and the business side of things that makes it all work. Let me tell you, it was such an insightful conversation, it almost made me want to start a new career/ specialty.

    He is a photographer based in Philadelphia who specializes in photographing architecture. One of his loves is capturing the built environment, and also has a passion for landscape and nature photography, and loves to use light and composition to create beautiful photos with that “wow” factor that makes your clients want to stop and stare.

    He has had an “illustrious career” working in sales, online marketing and photography for 30 years,In a previous life, as VP of Internet Marketing, he grew Comcast Business’ online marketing division from $76 million/year to $1.6 billion annually, In other words…he is very smart and has had a lot of success before starting this new business.

    Here’s what else we covered:

    • Real Estate vs. Portfolio Photography: While real estate photography can bring in a steady but moderate income, Jack explained how portfolio photography for architects is where the real long-term value is.

    • Marketing Strategies: Jack gave us a peek into how he markets his business using tools like LinkedIn, email newsletters, and even printed portfolios sent to hot prospects.

    • How Jack Approaches a Job: It all starts with learning the story behind the building from the architect.

    • Starting in Architectural Photography: Thinking about diving in? We chat about where to start and skills needed to get going successfully.

    • The Gear Game: Jack also talked about what high-end equipment needed for architectural photography

    • Pricing Your Services: Pricing can be tricky! Jack emphasized how essential it is to price your work correctly. Finding that sweet spot is an art in itself.

    Whether you’re thinking of getting into architectural photography or just curious, this episode is packed with practical tips and advice. I hope it gets you excited to grab your camera, explore the beauty of buildings, and start experimenting.

    Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe to The Profitable Photographer on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform. It is the encouragement I need to keep sharing and interviewing amazing guests.

    Here is how to connect with Jack

    [email protected]://www.linkedin.com/in/jackzigon/

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • Welcome to The Profitable Photographer!

    We all have them, right? Clients that are beyond challenging, can not be pleased no matter what, and make us question ourselves. Or create sleepless nights trying to come up with just the right response to a criticism. Did we do something wrong, are we not good enough, should we change our policies?

    In this episode, I explore a crucial topic that every photographer faces: how to set and keep policies that help us effectively deal with difficult clients. Inspired by the wisdom of Anna Taylor, “Love yourself enough to set boundaries. Your time and energy are precious, and you get to decide how you use them,” we'll delve into how to navigate challenging situations while maintaining your sanity and business integrity.

    The first piece of advice is to evaluate the situation and see if there is something that is our fault and search for remedies. The second is to realize that there is a very small percentage of our clients that are just plain impossible to please...or are purposely being difficult so they can get more from us than what we offer.

    In this episode, we’ll cover:

    Understanding Difficult Clients: Why some clients just aren't the right match and how to recognize the red flags early on. Real-Life Experience: I share a personal story of a challenging client who crossed boundaries, teaching me valuable lessons in protecting my work. While most clients are wonderful, it's the .1% who can cause headaches. Learn how to handle them without losing your cool. Setting Boundaries: How being self-employed taught me to confidently establish and enforce boundaries in both business and personal life. Six important steps that help avoid or resolve misunderstandings.Whether you're just starting out or have been in the business for years, this episode will give you the tools you need to set boundaries that protect your business and your well-being. Tune in and take control of your client relationships!

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • In today’s episode of The Profitable Photographer, I had the pleasure of chatting with Ruth Annan, and we had a rich and thought-provoking conversation about two very different topics: the importance of intentional diversity in our businesses and the pure joy of event photography. Ruth shares her insights on how embracing diversity can lead to richer experiences, deeper connections, and more interesting stories in both our personal and professional lives.

    As a bonus, she shares how, as a business owner and a mother, she is able to rock both roles.

    Here’s a glimpse of what we covered:

    • Intentional Diversity: Ruth and I talk about how being intentional about diversity can transform our photography businesses, teaching methods, and overall approach to life. She encourages us to reach out and include people we might not interact with regularly, making our lives and work more vibrant and fulfilling.

    • The Joy of Event Photography: We explore why corporate events can be both educational and profitable. Ruth’s successful business in corporate events, headshots, and video production showcases the potential of this niche, especially when combined with a diverse team and client base.

    • Balancing Motherhood and Business: I investigate some of the challenges, solutions, and rewards while navigating life as both a businesswoman and a mother. She emphasizes that it’s okay to seek help and that integrating business responsibilities with family life can benefit everyone involved.

    This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration for anyone looking to build a more inclusive and profitable photography business. I am honored to have had this frank conversation with a very inspiring and brilliant person.

    Here is how you can get in touch with Ruth

    [email protected]

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • On this episode of The Profitable Photographer, I’m joined by Marcel, a wedding photographer in Australia with over 16 years of experience who is all about creating a remarkable client experience. He loves the connective and passionate memories that he creates for couples. And he's also generous with his time by mentoring photographers entering the market, he loves to assist other photography studios as needed, and also helping our wider wedding planning community.

    One of my main takeaways I totally agree with from this conversation are..1. Be nice/likable. 2. Be caring. 3. Build relationships. Make connections with our clients but also with vendors, guests and bridal parties.

    Listen for these topics and how and how you can use this info to thrive in the very competitive wedding photography world.

    • Deliver Memorable Client Experiences: how his passion for connecting with clients leads to unforgettable wedding photography that truly captures the essence of the couple's special day.

    • The Power of Networking: why strategic networking with other wedding vendors and photographers has been the cornerstone of his business success, providing him with a steady stream of referrals.

    • Maximizing Visibility: his technique of sharing galleries with vendors post-wedding, which not only strengthens relationships but also amplifies his brand’s reach.

    • Sales as a Service: the importance of being personable and listening to clients during the sales process. He shares his approach to asking the right questions to uncover what clients really want.

    • Smaller Weddings, Bigger Profits: info on how smaller weddings can be surprisingly profitable and how Marcel has streamlined his process to maximize efficiency.

    If you’re looking to build stronger client relationships and leverage networking to grow your business, this episode is packed with actionable insights from Marcel!

    By the way, if you are attending the Professional Photographers of America’s Imaging Expo this coming Feb 2025, watch for news about them get together for my listeners and guests. I am anxious to meet you in person!

    Here is how to connect with Marcel

    Web: www.marcelvanderhorstphotographer.comEmail: [email protected]

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • Hello hello hello. I have some BIG NEWS!

    I am throwing a meet and greet in Dallas during the Professional Photographers of America’s Imaging Expo for my guests and listeners to The Profitable Photographer with Luci Dumas podcast. Come hang out on Sunday, Feb 2nd in the afternoon and meet guests, fans of the show, and of course me.

    And now about this newest episode. Recently, I had the pleasure of chatting with Adam Goldberg from A Gold Photo, an exceptional pet photographer known for his stunning wall art and in-person sales approach. Adam also offers both in-person and online training for photographers eager to learn from his wealth of experience. Here’s a sneak peek at what we discussed:

    1 In-Person Sales (IPS): Adam's strategy to avoid burnout and maximize profits. We even did a fun role-play where I pretended not to do IPS!

    2 Photographing Dogs:

    ◦ Get Experience: Practice regularly, even daily.

    ◦ Know Your Camera: Be so familiar with your gear that you can operate it instinctively.

    ◦ Patience: Pets and their owners can sense your energy. Stay calm and patient.

    ◦ Read Dog Behavior: Understanding canine body language is crucial for great shots.

    ◦ Clear Communication: Be in control and clearly communicate with your assistant.

    Stay calm, confident, and consistent.

    ◦ Cheese: Yes, string cheese is a fantastic treat to get pets to cooperate!

    Don’t forget to check out Adam’s website and Instagram for more inspiration. And, of course, subscribe to The Profitable Photographer on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Your support keeps the show going. Until next time, happy shooting!

    [email protected] website: www.agoldphoto.com

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

    Website Email: [email protected] FacebookYouTube
  • Hi Brilliant Photographer, welcome back!

    Today, I am sharing my solo episode diving into a topic that can always use more info and ideas: handling objections. I shared my thoughts on this a while back, but I'm excited to give you a fresh take.

    As Sandra Boynton's coffee mug says, "Salesmanship begins when the customer says no." This couldn't be truer in our field. You can do everything perfectly—attract the ideal clients, have amazing sessions, and plant seeds for future purchases—but an objection can stop you in your tracks.

    Objections can arise at any point: initial contact, during a call, in-person consultations, or sales sessions. We need to be prepared with responses that not only satisfy our clients but also encourage them to book us and invest in our products and services.

    Here are some common objections you might face and how to handle them:

    1. Initial Contact:

    "I don't use the phone. Just email, please."

    "Can I have only digitals?"

    "Please send me your pricing."

    2. In-Person Consultations:

    Price issues.

    Pushback on the in-person sales session.

    Time of day, location, clothing preferences.

    3. Sales Sessions:

    "Can we order later or some now and some later?"

    It's important to remember that our goal isn't just to make a sale because we need it. We believe that what we offer is a blessing to our clients. Always keep your "why" in mind.

    Here are three key takeaways for handling objections:

    Establish yourself as a Trusted Advisor:First respond to questions with a clarification questions: When faced with a challenging question, take a breath, ask for clarification, and use the "Feel, Felt, Found" technique.Stand firm on your policies using this phrase...”These were the prices and policies when you booked me, and they are still my prices and policies."

    Watch on YouTube or listen wherever podcasts are shared as I dive deeper into these points and

    share more insights on handling objections effectively!

    And thanks, as always, for listening, subscribing, and connecting. I heart you big time! Luci

    Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

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