Freedom Focus Photography

315 - You did it all right, the call flowed, you connected, you nailed the pricing talk, and then… nothing. In this episode, Heather and I unpack what to do when a client ghosts you even after your best effort, how to stay curious instead of crushed, and why “doing it right” doesn’t guarantee a yes (and why that’s actually a good thing).What to Listen For:Heather’s 3 phases of the client journey and why phase 3 is the “Wait… what?!” momentThe truth about doing everything “right” and why that doesn’t always equal bookedTwo mental tracks after a “no”: frustration spiral vs. curiosity and growthHow to set action goals you control, not outcome goals you can’tSmart follow-up strategies and why more than one is essentialWhy ghosting isn’t always rejectionTurning marketing into something that’s actually fun How to build resilience and self-trust through every “no”What to do when fear of failure stalls your next inquiry callDoing everything “right” doesn’t promise a yes but it can teach you exactly what you need to grow. In this episode, learn how to shift from frustration to curiosity, follow up with confidence, and build resilience that leads to more bookings. Want hands-on coaching? Join us for Coach Week, Nov 11–13 at 2pm ET. It's totally free, with replays included.  Sign up here - https://www.freedomfocusformula.com/coachweekAdditional Links: Ep. 284 - Stop Inquiry Ghosting - https://www.freedomfocusformula.com/blog/stop-inquiry-ghostingNicole’s Instagram: @nicolebegleyofficialHeather’s Flourish Academy - https://flourishacademy.mykajabi.com/Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.comFreedom Focus Formula – www.freedomfocusformula.comElevate – www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevateCommercial Pet Photography Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercialJOIN THE PARTY: Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

314 - Ever felt a twinge of guilt when offering products after a model call or charity session? You’re not alone. In this week’s episode, Heather and I dive into one sneaky thought that’s quietly killing your photography sales, the fear of pulling a “bait and switch.” We’ll talk about what that really means, why your brain might think you’re doing something shady, and how to shift your mindset so you can confidently sell without hesitation.What to Listen For:What the term “bait and switch” really means (and why it’s not what you’re doing)Why photographers feel guilty offering products after “free” sessionsHow this mindset silently sabotages your conversionsNicole’s personal experience building a thriving business through charity auctionsThe difference between transparency and deception in your client communicationThe #1 shift that turns your marketing into genuine serviceHow to educate your clients before the session so they feel confident and informedWhy your thoughts about money and worth show up in every sales conversationHow to serve from integrity while still running a profitable businessIf your brain’s been whispering, “I don’t want to trick people,” it’s time to turn down that noise. You’re not being deceptive, you’re being transparent and generous. When you lead with clarity and confidence, clients feel it. Hit play to hear how to shift your mindset and finally stop second-guessing your sales process.Episode LinksNicole’s Instagram: @nicolebegleyofficialHeather’s Flourish Academy - https://flourishacademy.mykajabi.com/Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.comFreedom Focus Formula – www.freedomfocusformula.comElevate – www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevateCommercial Pet Photography Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercialJOIN THE PARTY: Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

313 - Let’s be honest, marketing your business can feel terrifying. 🙈The thought of putting yourself out there? Instant heart palpitations. But what if visibility didn’t have to feel like self-promotion? In this week’s episode, Nicole and Heather uncover the fears that keep photographers hiding behind their cameras and how to shift your mindset so visibility feels like service, not bragging.What to Listen ForThe real reason photographers say “I don’t know how” to marketHow fear of judgment quietly sabotages your visibilityWhy your brain treats marketing like a life-or-death threatA simple reframe that transforms “look at me” into “let me help you”How to replace “convincing” energy with “service” energy in salesWhy not sharing your services is actually doing your clients a disserviceWhy every strategy fails if you don’t first address fearVisibility isn’t about shouting louder — it’s about showing up to serve. When you reframe marketing as an act of helping instead of self-promotion, everything changes.If you’re ready to get visible (without the anxiety), join Heather’s new Visibility Workshop inside Elevate at freedomfocusformula.com/elevate — use code PODCAST to save $200 on enrollment.  Links:  Join the Elevate program and participate in the Visibility Workshop: www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevateSave $200 on enrollment with code: podcastConnect on Instagram: @nicolebegleyofficial and @flourishacademyJOIN THE PARTY: Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

312 - Do you ever feel like the odd one out because you’re not chasing six-figure revenue? You’re not alone, and you’re not doing it wrong. This week, we dive into how to uncover your true motivation, avoid resentment, and create a photography business that fuels your soul while still honoring your time and value.  What to Listen For:A simple test to know if money is your main driver—or just fuel for your missionThe happiness threshold: why security matters more than “more”The sneaky sign you’re underchargingWhy passion alone won’t save a project once requests and revisions roll inThe energy exchange principle: how pricing protects respect on both sidesHow “action → clarity” reveals your true motivation (not the one you think you have)The cleanest way to barter (and why money is the universal stand-in)How purpose + profit together make challenges easier to push throughA practical exercise to decide: income replacement, vacation fund, or creative outlet?Your photography business doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. When you know what truly drives you, and set prices that reflect the value of your time, you’ll build a business that feels aligned, sustainable, and fulfilling. Tune in now and start shaping a business that supports both your purpose and your lifestyle.Links from the episode:Nicole’s Instagram: @nicolebegleyofficialHeather’s Flourish Academy - https://flourishacademy.mykajabi.com/Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.comFreedom Focus Formula – www.freedomfocusformula.comElevate – www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevateCommercial Pet Photography Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercialJOIN THE PARTY: Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

311 - What would make someone walk away from a $250K legal career to photograph dogs? For Kelly McNamara, it wasn’t a midlife crisis, it was clarity. In this episode, Heather sits down with Kelly to uncover the unexpected tools (including an AI version of Heather!) that helped her trade courtroom stress for creative freedom and build a business that lights her up.What to Listen ForThe $250K “golden handcuffs” keeping Kelly stuck and what finally made her break freeHow following every business “rule” still left her frustrated and stuckThe moment a simple framework flipped everything she thought about successWhy her first sales breakthrough had nothing to do with pricingThe wild twist: how Heather’s AI clone became her late-night coachThe self-doubt that almost stopped her next big project and how she overcame itThe belief that turned “outlier” into “trailblazer”How confidence (not strategy) became her most profitable skillThe one thought she used to feel unstoppable, even after setbacksFrom six-figure attorney to thriving pet photographer, Kelly’s story proves that transformation doesn’t start with strategy. It starts with belief. Her journey inside Elevate shows what’s possible when you back yourself fully and stop waiting for “someday.”🎧 Listen now to hear the twists, triumphs, and takeaways that just might change how you see your own business.IMPORTANT RESOURCES Get Coached by Heather (Fast Track Coaching): https://www.getcoachedbyheather.comHair of the Dog Academy: https://hairofthedogacademy.comFreedom Focus Photography Podcast hub: https://hairofthedogacademy.com/podcastFree Guide – Top 10 Dog Poses: https://hairofthedogacademy.com/posesElevate Coaching (with Heather): https://hairofthedogacademy.com/elevateNicole Begley Photography: https://nicolebegleyphotography.comHair of the Dog Conservation Fund: https://hairofthedogconservationfund.orgInstagram: https://instagram.com/hairofthedogacademy | https://instagram.com/nicolebegleyofficialLeave a podcast reviewJOIN THE PARTY: Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

310 - Ever tried buying a black-tie dress online and decided “hard pass” once you saw the return policy? Yep, same. In today’s episode, we turn that frustration into a masterclass on your photography client experience. Where’s the friction? What’s confusing? And what tiny tweaks convert more inquiries into bookings (without feeling pushy)? Let’s make your process easy. What to Listen For:The dress-shopping disaster that exposed the #1 sales killer in your business (and how to fix it)The quick workflow audit and what this reveals in 10 minutesThe “grandma test” and why a second grader should understand your booking stepsA simple swap that beats long questionnaires (and still gets you better info)My “Triple Guarantee”: what it is, why it works, and the two times I actually used itMicro-frictions you don’t notice (scheduling, codes, portals) that cost you bookingsWhere to educate proactively so clients feel excited, not overwhelmedYour booking process shouldn’t feel like a return policy nightmare. When you make things clear and easy, clients relax, trust you more, and say yes faster. Listen in to find out how to simplify your workflow and boost your bookings.RESOURCESMaster the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy - www.hairofthedogacademy.comStop competing on price, sell without feeling pushy, and reach consistently $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula - www.freedomfocusformula.comCrack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate - www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevateDiscover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy - www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercialJOIN THE PARTY: Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

309 - What do limited releases, “cooked” plush waffles, and personalized packaging have to do with your photography business? Everything. Heather and I break down how experience design turns ordinary products into premium purchases—and how you can copy the right pieces for your studio.What to Listen ForA secret that instantly makes clients crave what you offer.Why putting limits on access can actually increase demand.The one line that flips “overpriced” into “worth it.”How your personal values can sell just as strongly as your photos.The uncomfortable money question photographers avoid—and why it matters.Tiny touches (like packaging) that lead to big sales.Why industry “standards” for costs might be holding you back.The real reason middle-market clients say, “I’ll print it myself.”A quirky “face-picking” trick that makes client decisions easier.The clean pricing script that stops second-guessing in its tracks.Premium pricing isn’t about squeezing clients. It’s about crafting an experience that matches the value you deliver, and stating your price cleanly. Want coaching on your exact offers and mindset? Grab a spot in Heather’s next Fast Track Coaching or jump into Elevate for community, coaching, and results.RESOURCES FROM THE EPISODE: Get Coached by Heather (Fast Track Coaching): https://www.getcoachedbyheather.comBook mention: Stories That Stick by Kendra HallMore ResourcesHair of the Dog Academy: https://hairofthedogacademy.comFreedom Focus Photography Podcast hub: https://hairofthedogacademy.com/podcastFree Guide – Top 10 Dog Poses: https://hairofthedogacademy.com/posesElevate Coaching (with Heather): https://hairofthedogacademy.com/elevateNicole Begley Photography: https://nicolebegleyphotography.comHair of the Dog Conservation Fund: https://hairofthedogconservationfund.orgInstagram: https://instagram.com/hairofthedogacademy | https://instagram.com/nicolebegleyofficialLeave a podcast reviewJOIN THE PARTY: Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

Today I’m chatting with my friend Adam Goldberg of AGoldPhoto, a studio pet photographer, shelter-dog hype man, and the brain behind “Second Shot.” He started in shelters back in 2013, built a thriving studio, and is now circling back to his roots with a model that funds adoption photos through brand sponsors. It’s smart, generous, and wildly scalable.If you love the idea of photographing rescue pets but struggle to find the time with your adulting responsibilities and bills, this one’s for you.What to Listen For:The surprising reason Adam first picked up a camera at the shelter (hint: it wasn’t about the dogs).How pit bulls changed the course of his career—and what he discovered that the news never shows.Why he refunded $100,000 in bookings overnight…and what he built from the ashes.The single question that sparked the idea for Second Shot.How a casual social media post turned into brand sponsorships that now fund adoption photos.The behind-the-scenes of what sponsors actually want, and why some don’t care about analytics at all.What makes this model irresistible to shelters (and why Adam warns photographers not to ask for money too soon).The unexpected pushback he faced from other photographers and how he handled it.Why Adam believes photographers shouldn’t have to choose between paying their bills and saving lives.Where he sees Second Shot going next and how you might be able to join in.Adam’s “Second Shot” model proves you can serve shelters, create real adoption momentum, and still get paid for your craft. If this lights you up, go follow Adam, say hello, and tell him Nicole sent you. Then hit play and take notes—you’ll walk away with partnership ideas you can action this month. CTA: Subscribe, share this episode with a rescue-loving friend, and leave a review so more photographers can find it.Additional information: Adam’s Instagram: https://instagram.com/agoldphotoAdam’s website: https://agoldphoto.comFacebook group: Studio Pet Photography HelpMore Resources:Freedom Focus Photography Podcast: https://hairofthedogacademy.com/podcast (or your preferred podcast hub)Hair of the Dog Academy: https://hairofthedogacademy.comFree Guide – Top 10 Dog Poses: https://hairofthedogacademy.com/posesFreedom Focus Formula: https://nicolebegley.com/freedom-focus-formulaJOIN THE PARTY: Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

Ever wonder what separates a $500 sale from an $8,000 sale? In this episode, Heather sits down with three Elevate photographers, Marcie Fry, Katie Carmickle, and Jessica Wasik, who each closed an $8K sale in the same week. You’ll hear their journeys, the marketing that worked, and what ACTUALLY made this sale possible.  Spoiler alert, it wasn’t a specific pricing strategy.What to Listen ForHow three different photographers each closed $8K+ sales in one weekThe early struggles—charging $25, $100, or $150—and how they grew from thereWhat allowed them to move from “I can’t charge that” to confident $8K+ salesHow giveaways, referrals, and in-person connections led to big-ticket clientsKatie’s $23K sale story and what she learned about letting clients decide without discountingJess’s transition from free pet Santa photos to multi-six-figure salesMarcy’s strategy of tailoring packages around client budgets while keeping profit in mindWhat to say instead of “anything else?” in a sales session to keep momentum goingWhy your photography skills alone aren’t the deciding factor in hitting big numbersBig sales aren’t reserved for a lucky few, they’re possible for you too.  This episode is breaking it all down. Tune in to hear how these photographers did it and how you can too. Listen for the outreach, the follow-up, and the offer that sealed the deal.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to the show for more strategies, or check out Elevate to get the coaching and community that makes sales like this possible.Important LinksElevate: www.flourish.academy/elevateHair of the Dog Academy: www.hairofthedogacademy.comFreedom Focus Formula: www.freedomfocusformula.comCommercial Pet Photography Academy: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercialJOIN THE PARTY: Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

306 - If you’ve ever wondered why inquiries go silent or potential clients disappear, you’re not alone. But here’s the thing: the real reason isn’t your pricing, your competition, or even the economy. In this week’s episode, Heather breaks down the surprising truth behind why clients aren’t booking—and how you can turn it around starting today.What to Listen For:The simple reason clients don’t book (and why it’s not your pricing).How to take action daily and build unstoppable momentum.The difference between hoping for clients vs. actively creating them.What Heather means by “failure gold” and why failing more often can accelerate your growth.How to build belief before you have results (and why this is a game-changer).The mindset shift that turns rejection into confidence.Why your first $1,000–$10,000 sale can feel exciting AND easy.A challenge you can do today to start proving to yourself that clients are out there waiting for you.Booking clients isn’t about fancy contests or a secret strategy—it’s about uncovering the real reason behind the “no’s” and shifting into action that works. Heather’s insights will surprise you, but once you see it, you can’t unsee it.👉 Don’t miss the rest of the 4 Clients in 4 Weeks Challenge—replays are available now, and you can still join us live for the final two calls.Additional ResourcesMaster the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.comStop competing on price, sell without feeling pushy, and reach consistent $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula – www.freedomfocusformula.comCrack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate – www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevateDiscover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercialJoin the 4 Clients in 4 Weeks Challenge – www.hairofthedogacademy.com/4c4wJOIN THE PARTY: Connect with us on Instagram Explore valuable pet photography resources here Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers. Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that. Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.