

PhotoBizX The Ultimate Wedding and Portrait Photography Business Podcast
Andrew Hellmich: Photographer, Interviewer, Podcaster and Owner of Impact Images
PhotoBizX is the number one photography business podcast for portrait and wedding photographers who want to attract more clients, charge what they’re worth, and build a thriving business.  Hosted by Australian Master Photographer Andrew Hellmich, this weekly interview show features the world’s most successful and inspiring photographers and industry experts — the real stars of every episode. Andrew’s relaxed, curious interview style draws out incredible depth and honesty; listeners often say he asks exactly what they’re thinking and are shocked by how much his guests reveal.  Each episode delivers real strategies, stories, and systems you can implement immediately — leaving you motivated and ready to grow your photography business.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 27, 2025 • 48min
640: Yaneck Wasiek – The Simple Systems That Built a $600K/Year Headshot Photography Business
 
Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area
Yaneck Wasiek of www.wasiofaces.com and www.wasiodigital.com is today's incredible guest!
While travelling recently, I shared that I had visited Poland in one of the emails I sent to PhotoBizX listeners and members.
That email prompted a response from Yaneck, who I learned was originally from Warsaw. He grew up there and left Poland at 20.
I also learned he runs a $600k+/ year studio with his wife.
And he has a Facebook Group with over 1000 members focusing on business, and his WASIO Digital platform to help photographers with digital marketing.
His photography business started in 2017, when they lived and worked in a tiny studio. From here, they moved to a larger home and converted part of it to a studio space – which was still tight, but functional. And in 2020, they moved the studio out of their home and have a beautiful, spacious, purpose-built studio in Los Angeles, USA.
Focusing on headshots, his work is first class, with an easy-to-navigate website and packed with information to serve any client — I was  looking forward to learning the secrets of his success.
In this interview, Yaneck shares the simple systems that helped him build a $600K/year headshot photography business.
Here's some more of what we covered in the interview:
The simple lead generation system Yaneck uses to bring in $15K corporate jobs — without chasing clients or relying on luck
How he turns one-off headshot sessions into long-term corporate relationships that keep paying year after year
The pricing setup that gets clients happily paying more — and why clear, honest pricing always beats “premium positioning”
Why consistency in lighting, background and crop can become your biggest advantage with repeat clients
The door-to-door strategy that built a six-figure studio from scratch — and how one free shoot turned into $150K in bookings
Why showing up and building relationships still beats any algorithm when it comes to growing your business
How Yaneck uses LinkedIn to attract steady work (and what most photographers get wrong there)
The landing page mistakes that quietly kill your conversions — and the small tweaks that actually make people enquire
How his automated follow-up system moves leads from “interested” to “booked” while he’s out shooting
The simple tech setup that keeps everything running smoothly — emails, texts, reminders, and all
The mindset shift that turns a creative hustle into a real business that runs smoothly and predictably
Yaneck’s advice for photographers ready to scale beyond themselves — and build something that works even when they’re not behind the camera
What’s on Offer for Premium Members
If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews.
I’d rather have four or five sessions every day and a full calendar than sit around waiting for premium clients who never book.
– Yaneck Wasiek
You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find more friendly, motivated, caring and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all.
I don’t see myself as an artist. I’m a businessman who runs a photography studio. I love photographing, but I know my strength is in systems, consistency, and client experience.
– Yaneck Wasiek
In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, make you accountable, and build friendships with other pro photographers with motives similar to yours – to build a more successful photography business.
What is your big takeaway?
Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Yaneck shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on what you heard in today's episode.
You can’t just sit behind your computer and wait for work. You have to create opportunities. Talk to people, show up, and be visible — that’s how everything started for us.
– Yaneck Wasiek
If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Yaneck, or a way to thank her for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below.
Finance Like a MoFo — Live Training with Richard Grenfell
If you’ve ever had a client say “I love the photos, but I just can’t afford it right now,” this training will completely change the way you sell.
Join Richard and me on Thursday, November 6th, 2025, @ 8:00am AEDT for a live online workshop where he shares the exact in-house payment plan system that’s generating $6–7K per week in recurring revenue for his studio — with no third-party finance companies involved.
You’ll learn how to confidently offer flexible, ethical payment options that boost sales, smooth your cash flow, and turn “I can’t afford it” into bookings.
BIG Bonuses: When you register, you’ll also get instant access to Richard’s previous Advertise Like a MoFo and Sell Like a MoFo courses — both included free with your enrolment.
Investment: USD $197 (price doubles after the live session — and the bonuses disappear)
More details and register here: https://learn.photobizx.com/finance-like-a-mofo-registration/
iTunes Reviews and Shout-outs
I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show.
For corporate clients, consistency is everything — the lighting, the crop, the brightness, the background. When every photo looks identical, they don’t have to think twice about calling you again.
– Yaneck Wasiek
If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes or https://photobizx.com/google. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them.
You can’t wait for things to happen. You have to create opportunities — talk to people, show up, and be seen. That’s how every good thing in my business has started.”
– Yaneck Wasiek
Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business.
Links to people, places and things mentioned in this episode:
Yaneck Wasiek Website
WASIO Digital
Yaneck Wasiek on LinkedIn
Yaneck Wasiek on Facebook
Grow Your Photography Business w/ WASIO Facebook Group
Yaneck Wasiek on Instagram
Episode 636: Ilana Wechsler – Simple Google Ad Strategies That Actually Generate Photography Bookings
Once a business builds a relationship with you, it’s not about price anymore — it’s risk management. They already know what to expect, you deliver consistently, and they don’t want to take the risk of hiring someone else.”
– Yaneck Wasiek
Thank you!
Huge thanks to Yaneck for being so open and generous in this chat. His story and the systems that enabled him to build a $ 600k-per-year headshot photography business are proof that you can grow a wildly profitable studio without burning out or losing the joy of what you do.
He’s built success on his own terms by focusing on systems, consistency, and genuine care for his clients — not hustle or hype.
I’d love to hear what resonated most with you — what’s one idea or shift you’ll take into your own photography business after hearing this episode?
When we moved to California, I didn’t wait for SEO. I went door-to-door, offering free headshots to hotels and law firms. One of those leads turned into a $150,000 client relationship.
– Yaneck Wasiek
That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business!
Thanks for listening—speak soon,
Andrew
The post 640: Yaneck Wasiek – The Simple Systems That Built a $600K/Year Headshot Photography Business appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business. 

Oct 20, 2025 • 0sec
639: Natalie Martin – £3.5K+ Wedding Photography Bookings by Leading with Albums, Not Digitals
 
Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area
A couple of months ago, I interviewed a UK-based photography business coach, Kenny Martin — also known as The Studio Doctor.
His recipe for success was to shoot portraits, focus on the numbers, get people in front of your camera as often as possible and give them the chance to spend more.
He and what he shared were a big hit with listeners.
Then he surprised me with this email…
Kenny says:
I never mentioned that my daughter Natalie is one of the top wedding photographers practising today: incredible work, incredible business and a completely different approach to most wedding photographers.
As well as being an awesome shooter she was one of my best salespeople and contributed £3.2 million over 7 years.
Then she moved from sales and went all in on weddings and has never looked back.
Top Fearless Photographer in Scotland, Top 10 wedding photographer in the UK, UK Wedding Photographer of the Year a couple of times and awards left, right and centre from other associations.
It's obvious how proud Kenny is of Natalie.
But what really sparked my interest, aside from her accolades and incredible portfolio… is why in the world would she be focusing on weddings when all I'm guessing she's been told is portraits are the way to go for a successful business.
In this interview, Natalie shares how she books £3,000+ wedding photography packages by leading with albums, not digital files… in fact, she doesn't even offer the digitals.
Here's some more of what we covered in the interview:
The mindset shift that keeps wedding photography exciting — even after hundreds of weddings
Why chasing joy instead of money can actually grow your profits
How Natalie consistently books £3,000+ weddings in a market that says “you can’t charge that here”
The surprising power of meeting couples face-to-face (or on Zoom) before talking price
The exact moment she asks couples to book — and why it works so well
How to handle “you’re out of our budget” without dropping your prices or apologising
The simple strategy that keeps her top of mind with Scotland’s best wedding venues
Why leading with albums (not digital files) completely changes client perception and sales
The client experience move that turns every couple into a raving fan and future referrer
How to stay visible and relevant on social media — without it taking over your life
Why Natalie’s playing the long game and slowly shifting into education — on her own terms
What’s on Offer for Premium Members
If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews.
I’ve never shot a wedding where the couple have the digital files included — the album comes first, always.– Natalie Martin
You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find more friendly, motivated, caring and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all.
I might make more money shooting portraits, but weddings give me joy — I’d honestly do them for free if I could.– Natalie Martin
In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, make you accountable, and build friendships with other pro photographers with motives similar to yours – to build a more successful photography business.
What is your big takeaway?
Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Natalie shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on what you heard in today's episode.
If you really want something, you’ll pay for it. I wanted to step out of the £2,000 bracket and attract clients who truly value what I do.– Natalie Martin
If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Natalie, or a way to thank her for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below.
iTunes Reviews and Shout-outs
I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show.
I shoot 6,000 photos on a wedding day and deliver around 800. I’m ruthless — you’ve got to be to tell the story properly.– Natalie Martin
If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes or https://photobizx.com/google. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them.
Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business.
Here is the latest review…
★★★★★ The single biggest influence on my photography business!
Via Google reviews by New Zealand wedding and family photographer Rainer Macalister, in New Zealand on October 15th, 2025.
The PhotoBizX podcast has been the single biggest influence on my photography business since 2016.
The insights and information on the show are outstanding, and it's also how I've found the business coach and more in-depth courses that helped me grow my original business and now relaunch after a break.
Cannot recommend Andrew's work and the community he's built highly enough.
Links to people, places and things mentioned in this episode:
Natalie Martin Website
Natalie Martin on Facebook
Natalie Martin on Instagram
Episode 627: Kenny Martin – Profit Over Hype. Building a Sustainable Photography Business
I leave the prices to the end of the call. First, I talk about them — their story, their day, their families. By the time we get to price, they already feel connected.– Natalie Martin
Thank you!
Huge thanks to Natalie for being so generous and real in this chat. Her story is proof that you can build a profitable, in-demand photography business without sacrificing the parts of it you love most. She’s built success on her own terms — by leading with passion, connection, and genuine care for her couples.
I’d love to know what resonated most with you — what’s one shift or idea you’ll take into your own business after hearing this episode?
I’m not trying to be the cheapest — I’m trying to be the photographer my couples really want. That’s where the value is.– Natalie Martin
That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business!
Thanks for listening—speak soon,
Andrew
The post 639: Natalie Martin – £3.5K+ Wedding Photography Bookings by Leading with Albums, Not Digitals appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business. 

Oct 12, 2025 • 58min
638: Trevor Dayley – Building a Thriving Photography Business Without the Social Media Grind
 
Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area
Trevor Dayley of www.magnetmod.com and www.trevordayley.com posted something interesting on Instagram recently – it was titled
“If I Were the Devil Trying to Ruin a Photographer’s Career.”
He told me (and I can see) it blew up—and in rolled the DMs, shares and comments.
Turns out a lot of photographers are feeling what he put into words: Doubt. Burnout. That nagging feeling you’re falling behind, even when you’re doing good work.
He says it sparked some honest conversations.
To give you a little more background… Trevor was a full-time wedding photographer. Has been shooting professionally for about 15 years and has photographed over 500 weddings.
He was voted one of the Top 100 Wedding Photographers by SLR Lounge — take one look at his work and you'll see why.
He now has a job at MagMod, where he works with photographers to help them create better images and run stronger businesses.
In this interview, Trevor shares how to build a thriving photography business without the social media grind.
Here's some more of what we covered in the interview:
The mindset shift that helped Trevor stop chasing likes and start defining success on his own terms
How cutting back on weddings opened the door to more creativity, freedom, and genuinely better client experiences
Why showing vulnerability online builds stronger trust and deeper connections — with both clients and other photographers
Trevor’s refreshingly simple, no-pressure approach to mastering off-camera flash while shooting real weddings
The power of small, supportive peer groups (like Trevor’s “Breakfast Club”) to keep you accountable and growing fast
How he builds new referral networks from scratch every time he moves to a new area — without any awkward self-promotion
Why being real and consistent online will always attract more loyal clients than any perfectly curated feed
The gratitude habit that turns vendors, venues, and past clients into long-term advocates for your business
The YouTube educators Trevor recommends for levelling up your lighting, posing, and creativity
How focusing on relationships and community leads to the kind of success social media metrics can never match
What’s on Offer for Premium Members
If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews.
I think photographers need to stop worrying about the vanity metrics that when I say that, I'm referring mainly to, like subscribers, like the stuff that people see, like, oh, you know, he has 100,000 subscribers, and I only have 1000 for example. – Trevor Dayley
You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find more friendly, motivated, caring and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all.
Anything you can do to serve and help other people, it's going to turn around and it's going to help you in the future. – Trevor Dayley
In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, make you accountable, and build friendships with other pro photographers with motives similar to yours – to build a more successful photography business.
What is your big takeaway?
Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Trevor shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on what you heard in today's episode.
I would literally have a list of all the wedding coordinators out there in my area, and I would make sure to follow their stuff, and then I would comment whenever I see a post pop up, don't let one go by without commenting or liking it or both. – Trevor Dayley
If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Trevor, or a way to thank her for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below.
iTunes Reviews and Shout-outs
I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show.
The thing that people love to hear the most is their name and so when I'm shooting a bridal party…I will still say, “Hey, Stephanie, can you scoot in just a little bit?” “Hey Tom, can you move over just low?” So the moment I hear their names, when I arrive at that wedding and they're all getting ready, and I go around and say, “Okay, what are you guys' names?” I will remember those names, and I will use them as much as I can. And it is crazy. How, at the end of the night, how many people will say, “Trevor, you were the most amazing photographer today.” And it's like they haven't even seen a photo that I shot yet, right? But it's because of that experience that you were calling them their name throughout the wedding day and throughout the night…that's what generates business, is that friendship that you're creating with people. And that's why I love photography so much. – Trevor Dayley
If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes or https://photobizx.com/google. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them.
Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business.
Links to people, places and things mentioned in this episode:
Trevor Dayley Website
MagMod Website
Trevor Dayley on Instagram
MagMod on Facebook
MagMod on Instagram
SLR Lounge | Photography Tutorials on YouTube
FJH Photography on YouTube
Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead by Brené Brown
How to Win Friends & Influence People
Gratitude is one of those things that I think so often we fail to express as often as we should. And when we express that gratitude to people, it goes a long ways. – Trevor Dayley
Thank you!
Big thanks to Trevor for such an open and honest chat. In this interview, he shares the mindset shifts, habits, and relationship-building strategies that have helped him create a more meaningful, balanced, and successful photography career — one not defined by algorithms or hustle, but by connection, creativity, and purpose.
From simplifying flash to strengthening community, there’s a lot here that’ll make you rethink what real success looks like in this industry. I’d love to hear your biggest takeaway — what’s one thing you’re inspired to change after hearing Trevor’s story?
My biggest advice to people is find a network of friends, of, you know, two or three friends, and it could just be people locally, or it could be somebody on social media. – Trevor Dayley
That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business!
Thanks for listening—speak soon,
Andrew
Trevor, a few years ago, on his visit to Sydney, Australia!
The post 638: Trevor Dayley – Building a Thriving Photography Business Without the Social Media Grind appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business. 

Oct 6, 2025 • 47min
637: Nidhi Dahiya – Taking Headshot clients to $14K Family Portrait Sales
 
Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area
Nidhi Dahiya of www.nidscreations.com sent me a DM, which led to this incredible interview. She said in that message:
Hi Andrew! I just had my biggest month for portrait revenue in May, with USD$123.3k in sales.
Nidhi first appeared on the podcast for episode 462 in 2022.
At the time, she was working a full-time job, but expanded her photography business from a $30,000 annual turnover to over $750,000!
This was through a combination of headshots, families and senior photography sessions.
After some additional research for today's interview and following her message, the standout headline for me was how she achieved an average sale of $11,000 by offering multiple genres of photography per client. I couldn't wait to learn more about this process!
In this interview, Nidhi shares how to take branding and headshot client enquiries to $14K family portrait sales.
Here's some more of what we covered in the interview:
The branding strategy that positions you as the go-to photographer (so clients stop shopping around)
How to consistently attract premium buyers without spending a cent on ads
Why niching your message, not just your genre, is the real key to scaling
The consultation approach that builds instant trust and sets up five-figure sales
How Nidhi regularly turns sessions into $14,000+ sales using wall art and products
Smart ways to handle clients with smaller budgets — while still leaving them feeling valued
The role of mindset in business growth (and how belief shifts can transform your bookings overnight)
Behind the scenes of Nidhi’s home-based luxury studio and the little touches that elevate the client experience
Why showing clients the end product first (albums, wall art, website images) changes how they buy
How coaching and mentorship accelerated Nidhi’s students’ results — and how the same support could help you
The surprising truth: you don’t need to niche down to one genre… but you do need to niche your message
What’s on Offer for Premium Members
If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews.
I believe that everybody will spend 10,000 and up with me, and they do. If I feel like, “Oh, $10,000 sounds like a lot of money, I don't think I'm worth it,” or “My work is not good enough,” right? If I'm just living in my head, then I'm not going to attract that – Nidhi Dahiya
You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find more friendly, motivated, caring and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all.
I feel like no artist should be a struggling artist. I want to erase that term from the face of earth, like every artist should be a millionaire. – Nidhi Dahiya
In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, make you accountable, and build friendships with other pro photographers with motives similar to yours – to build a more successful photography business.
What is your big takeaway?
Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Nidhi shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on what you heard in today's episode.
My clients come to me because they really want to work with me… they're flexible as well because they want that quality work, and they know that nobody else can give it to them. – Nidhi Dahiya
If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Nidhi, or a way to thank her for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below.
iTunes Reviews and Shout-outs
I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show.
I don't think you have to niche down on a genre. You do have to niche down on something, though… we all need to niche down on that message. Our message needs to be consistent. – Nidhi Dahiya
If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes or https://photobizx.com/google. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them.
My goal is to create this wall art piece, because this is something she's going to look every single day. This is also high margin… it's also my advertisement in their home. – Nidhi Dahiya
Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business.
Links to people, places and things mentioned in this episode:
Nids Creations Website
The Thrive Code – Education for Portrait Photographers by Nidhi Dahiya Facebook Group
Nids Creations on Facebook
Nids Creations on Instagram
Nidhi Dahiya Coaching on Instagram
Episode 462: Nidhi Dahiya – Focus on ROI and what makes you happy for photography business success
I can connect the emotion with money and just position my service as a solution to whatever pain point somebody is having… You can give me a problem, and I'll be like, you need a wall art that would solve problems. – Nidhi Dahiya
Thank you!
Big thanks to Nidhi for sharing how she’s built a million-dollar portrait business without relying on ads. From positioning yourself as the only choice in your market, to turning one booking into multiple genres, to the mindset shifts that make five-figure sales feel normal — there’s a stack of insights here. I’d love to hear your biggest takeaway — what’s the one change you’re excited to try after hearing Nidhi’s approach?
If we want to command high prices, we need to show value… if I don't make them feel like, ‘oh, I don't have an answer for that.' ‘Oh, how am I going to do this? There's no way I can do this myself.' I need you in life, that's what I want the client to feel. – Nidhi Dahiya
That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business!
Thanks for listening—speak soon,
Andrew
The post 637: Nidhi Dahiya – Taking Headshot clients to $14K Family Portrait Sales appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business. 

Sep 29, 2025 • 53min
636: Ilana Wechsler – Simple Google Ad Strategies That Actually Generate Photography Bookings
 
Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area
Ilana Wechsler of www.teachtraffic.com was first interviewed for episode 513 back in 2023 — and I’m thrilled to have her back.
Ilana specialises in helping business owners, including photographers, run profitable Google and Facebook ad campaigns — without needing to hire an expensive agency.
She has managed over $30 million in ad spend and now focuses on teaching simple, practical strategies that actually work.
Many photographers tell me that ads feel overwhelming or too expensive… Ilana’s here to show they don’t have to be.
Because when done right, ads can be one of the best ways to generate quality leads and bookings — attracting incredible clients who are already searching for photography.
In this interview, Ilana shares simple Google Ad strategies that actually generate photography bookings.
Here's some more of what we covered in the interview:
Why Google Ads still matter for local photographers (even with AI search on the rise)
The trap of Performance Max campaigns — and better alternatives that actually work
Why Google Ads often beat Facebook for conversions (and the crucial difference between them)
The mindset shift you need: Forget cost-per-click — track cost-per-qualified-lead instead
Smart starting budgets, when to scale your spend, and the two numbers that really matter
A simple, low-maintenance campaign type that saves hours of keyword research and works for most photographers
How to know if it’s your ads or your website holding back bookings
Why understanding “quality score” can make or break your campaigns
When to run ads even if you already rank #1 in Google search
Clever ways to track every lead — including phone calls — so you know exactly what your ad spend is getting you
What’s on Offer for Premium Members
If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews.
Success with advertising is usually a process of starting small, getting the initial results so that the ads are paying for themselves, and then slowly increasing, scaling from that. – Ilana Wechsler
You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find more friendly, motivated, caring and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all.
There is one type of campaign which I know has worked really well for pretty much all the photographers that I've helped… which is what's called a dynamic search campaign… and it actually works incredibly well. – Ilana Wechsler
In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, make you accountable, and build friendships with other pro photographers with motives similar to yours – to build a more successful photography business.
What is your big takeaway?
Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Ilana shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on what you heard in today's episode.
If you can't convert those people into a potential customer, the solution is not to buy more traffic or do YouTube ads or do Facebook ads. The solution is to fix your website. – Ilana Wechsler
If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Ilana, or a way to thank her for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below.
iTunes Reviews and Shout-outs
I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show.
A very hyper-targeted Google search campaign with a presence in Google Maps, like an ad in the map pack is still the primary way that people find those types of services. – Ilana Wechsler
If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes or https://photobizx.com/google. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them.
The problem is that Google ads is a bit of a beast of an ad platform… there are literally a handful of strategies you need to do, and you can forget about the 80% of confusing stuff… just need to work on this part… and then forget about the rest. It's just so much noise. – Ilana Wechsler
Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business.
Here is the latest review…
★★★★★ I have loved PhotoBizX
Via Apple iTunes reviews by UK Award Winning Dog Photographer in Windsor and Ascot, Chris Miller, on September 20th, 2025.
I first discovered PhotoBizX when I was a keen amateur photographer.  I wanted to retire early from the IT industry, and back in 2018, I wasn’t sure if I was truly ready to slow down from the pace of the industry I had been part of for 40 years.  I started with the free version and very quickly transitioned to the Premium as I absorbed everything I possibly could.  I also went back to the early years of archives and, by the end of 2021, decided that a transition to a pet photographer was what I wanted.
I have loved PhotoBizX, everything you and the podcasts have done for me, and the literally hundreds of podcasts I have listened to over the past years. It’s down to you, your guests, your training, and my actions that have enabled me to achieve so much as a professional dog photographer.  I successfully transitioned from a full-time Tech and IT career to a multi-award-winning UK dog photographer in my early retirement.
In the first two years, I was photographing 60-100 dogs a year and achieved my LSWPP from the Society of Photographers as well.  I've achieved multiple awards for my dog photography. I’ve been on a couple of podcasts, and even the local BBC radio, too – none of which would have happened without PhotoBizX.  I literally replaced my Tech Industry hours and effort with total focus, dedication and determination as a professional dog photographer.
They say that artists never retire – I hope that’s true.  As I prepare for 2026 onwards, I have decided I want to have more time for me in retirement, and will be reducing my business and new client activities, and spending more time with my family and friends.  More time too for art and art history, guitar, ballroom dancing, and golf – although not at the same time!.
I will also continue my charitable work, trying to make a difference, fundraising through dog photography.  I will do everything I can to a professional standard, but it’s time for a little more me time.
As I prepare my plans for 2026, I wanted to express my sincere gratitude to you, Andrew, and all the podcast guests. I’ve taken so much from the content, and I will be forever grateful for the opportunities I've had in these transitional years.  I certainly achieved so much more as a professional photographer being a premium member of PhotoBizX than I would have done had I tried going it alone.
Chris Miller of MIL Pet Photography
Links to people, places and things mentioned in this episode:
Teach Traffic Website
Teach Traffic on YouTube
Episode 513: Ilana Wechsler – Google Ads for photographers like you’ve never heard before
The beauty of Google Ads is they are incredibly consistent, whereas Facebook, it's like a bit of a roller coaster ride… Google ads is not like that. It is incredibly stable and consistent because of the nature of that intent. – Ilana Wechsler
Thank you!
Big thanks to Ilana for breaking down Google Ads in a way that actually makes sense for photographers. From avoiding the traps of Performance Max campaigns to knowing whether it’s your ads or your website holding back bookings, there’s a stack of practical insights here. I’d love to hear your biggest takeaway — what’s the one change you’re excited to make after hearing Ilana’s approach?
On Google search, that intent element just eliminates that variable. You know that they want a photographer in your area, and they are actively looking for it. – Ilana Wechsler
That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business!
Thanks for listening—speak soon,
Andrew
The post 636: Ilana Wechsler – Simple Google Ad Strategies That Actually Generate Photography Bookings appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business. 

Sep 22, 2025 • 51min
635: Maddie Mae – How to Run a Profitable Destination Elopement Photography Business
 
Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area
Maddie Mae of www.adventureinstead.com is a US-based elopement photographer… with a difference! She was one of the first, if not THE first, elopement photographers.
After shooting big weddings for 5 years, a couple booked her an elopement in the Rocky Mountains. She says this booking changed the course of her life and the trajectory of her business. It was elopements or bust from then on.
Fast forward to today, and she's photographed over 300 elopements in the last 10 years.
Has worked in over 40 countries, photographing weddings.
Take one look through her portfolio and you will die with envy… the locations, photography, couples and moments will blow you away.
In this interview, Maddie shares how to run a profitable destination elopement photography business.
Here's some more of what we covered in the interview:
How Maddie manages travel, seasonal shifts, and stacked shooting schedules while staying profitable
Why aligning client expectations with your creative goals sets you up for long-term success
The SEO, Pinterest, and Instagram strategies that bring a steady flow of high-value enquiries
Building a portfolio that sells — and how styled destination shoots can fast-track your bookings and brand positioning
The trust-building tactics that spark referrals and repeat clients
How Maddie books dream jobs in regions with strict photography rules
Humanising your brand online — why personal storytelling and behind-the-scenes content create stronger engagement
Futureproofing your marketing with AI, Google Ads, and a clear homepage message
How education and mentorship can expand both your influence and your income
Bringing your creative vision to every job while keeping the client experience front and centre
What’s on Offer for Premium Members
If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews.
A really unique thing about eloping couples is that most of the time when they reach out to elopement photographers, they are much earlier on in their planning process than the point at which clients typically reach out to traditional wedding photographers. They don't typically have a date, they don't typically have a venue. Eloping clients are usually quite open and quite flexible. – Maddie Mae
You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find more friendly, motivated, caring and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all.
I've learned over time, and especially the more that I charge and I'm working with higher end clients, they expect and crave and want my vision. That's what they're hiring me for. They're hiring someone who has that vision and has ideas, so that takes the burden off of them from coming up with all the ideas. – Maddie Mae
In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, make you accountable, and build friendships with other pro photographers with motives similar to yours – to build a more successful photography business.
What is your big takeaway?
Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Maddie shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on what you heard in today's episode.
I'm very proud of my business. It's taken me a long time to really learn by trial and error, the marketing, branding, sales process, back end that leads to me be able to consistently and sustainably do this. – Maddie Mae
If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Maddie, or a way to thank her for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below.
iTunes Reviews and Shout-outs
I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show.
The best way to show up in AI search is to have good SEO, because that's where AI is pulling this information from. It's from the web. It's from Google search results. That's where they're looking for stuff. – Maddie Mae
If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes or https://photobizx.com/google. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them.
The first step in being able to book elopements of any kind is really understanding what they are, and, number two, believing that they are just as valid and important of a wedding day, deserving as just as much photography coverage… that is like key to being able to brand yourself for them, market yourself for them, price yourself for them. – Maddie Mae
Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business.
Here is the latest review…
★★★★★ The things they share are insane!
Via Google reviews by Central Coast family photographer, James White, in Australia on September 20th, 2025.
Honestly, where do I start?
I first listened to Andrew back in 2021, and then, well, life happened, and my membership lapsed. Fast forward to a month ago, and I came back to PBX, and honestly, I've not looked back.
Andrew is easily the best host I've had the pleasure of listening to, he asks questions I want asked without me being there. The quality of his guests and the things they share are insane. Most podcasts hold back and don't give away the good stuff unless you sign up for their multi-thousand-dollar course… not Andrew; his guests share everything. It has transformed my business and my mindset.
Thank you Andrew, a true legend of the industry. I can't wait to see where the podcast and the community go from here. Worth the tiny annual subscription fee 1,000 times over!
Links to people, places and things mentioned in this episode:
Adventure Instead Website
Thrive: The Business of Unconventional Weddings & Elopement Course
Adventure Instead on Instagram
Adventure Instead on Facebook
Weddings & Wanderlust – Adventure Instead Facebook Group
Maddie Mae on YouTube
Adventure Instead on Pinterest
Quaderno
My website is the hub of all of my marketing, any marketing I'm doing anywhere, it's all pointing to my website. – Maddie Mae
Thank you!
Big thanks to Maddie for sharing everything she did — the wins, the challenges, and the things that really moved the needle for her. From handling crazy travel schedules to building trust that keeps new client inquiries coming in, and letting SEO quietly do the heavy lifting… there’s a lot to take in. I’d love to hear about your biggest takeaways — what’s the one thing you’re keen to try after hearing Maddie’s story?
I love finding the most efficient ways to market my business, and best ways to serve my clients, to be able to charge really profitable rates that are sustainable for me and that I think to teach that to other photographers, that we can all be running sustainably profitable businesses and support our families. – Maddie Mae
That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business!
Thanks for listening—speak soon,
Andrew
The post 635: Maddie Mae – How to Run a Profitable Destination Elopement Photography Business appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business. 

Sep 15, 2025 • 39min
634: Kirstie McConnell – From Pets to Premium Portraits, Reinventing a Photography Business
 
Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area
Kirstie McConnell of www.classicoportraits.com and www.classicoportraits.com.au will be well known amongst pet photographers and long-term listeners to the podcast.
Originally based in Adelaide, where she was South Australia's first specialist pet photographer before cofounding The Pet Photographers Club with equally talented photographer, Caitlin McColl.
She has appeared on the podcast multiple times, where she presented two separate Masterclasses on how to Set up for Success as a Pet Photographer and How to Successfully Move into Pet Photography.
Since then, she met, fell in love with and married a handsome Italian gentleman and moved to Italy, where she started a brand new business — Classico Portraits.
It hasn't been plain sailing, but she's built the photography business into something special, where she averages $5000 for her tourist portrait sessions.
Now… she’s relocating back to Australia and planning to hit the ground running as she starts over, again, with her new photography business as a Gippsland & Mornington Peninsula photographer where she'll be focusing on families, couples and pets on adventures.
In this interview, Kirstie shares exactly how she moved from pets to premium portraits and reinvented her photography business.
Here's some more of what we covered in the interview:
How a move to Italy reset Kirstie’s creativity and sharpened her positioning
Why she pivoted from pets to luxury family portraits—and what changed in her sales
The “start from zero” plan: building a client base in a new country without a network
Turning tourism partners into a pipeline: hotels and operators with €400+/night guests
SEO as the quiet workhorse: ranking in multiple Italian cities for high-spend enquiries
From pets to people: what transfers, what doesn’t, and how to price for the jump
Cold outreach that compounds: 380+ targeted emails, and why she doesn’t follow up
Same-day sales, poolside viewings, and the buyer experience that lifts average order value (AOV)
Marketing across cultures: what landed in Italy and how she’ll adapt for Australia
The relaunch plan back home: blending family and pet sessions under one brand
Scaling with help: when an associate photographer makes sense (and when it doesn’t)
The mindset that carried her through the messy middle—moves, marriage, and starting over
What’s on Offer for Premium Members
If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews.
I just reached out to, like, everybody and anybody that I thought would be a good business partner for me, which, you know, in Tuscany in the tourism industry, is like everybody. — Kirstie McConnell
You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find more friendly, motivated, caring and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all.
The long-term one that definitely works best was focusing on SEO. I wanted to rank high in Google so if someone was searching for a photographer in X, Y or Z city in Italy—and ready to spend—they’d only have me to choose from. — Kirstie McConnell
In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, make you accountable, and build friendships with other pro photographers with motives similar to yours – to build a more successful photography business.
What is your big takeaway?
Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Kirstie shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on what you heard in today's episode.
I’ve sent around 380 emails now—hotels, experiences, any business serving clients spending €500 a day. If they’re interested, they email back. I’m better off keeping the outreach rolling than chasing. — Kirstie McConnell
If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Kirstie, or a way to thank her for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below.
iTunes Reviews and Shout-outs
I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show.
When an enquiry comes via Google, there’s a 90% chance they’ll book—and they’re my highest spenders by far. — Kirstie McConnell
If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes or https://photobizx.com/google. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them.
I think business wise, if you can make money as a pet photographer, especially like when I started, when there wasn't really a niche, then I think you can make money doing any kind of photography. — Kirstie McConnell
Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business.
Here are the latest reviews…
★★★★★ Hands down my favourite podcast
Via Google reviews by Sydney pet photographer, Gabriela Pupovac, in Australia on September 12th, 2025.
I’m so glad I found Photobiz X when I did. It’s hands down my favourite podcast, and the only one I pay for. I have learnt so much, I literally learn something every episode.
Andrew is so positive and his guests are so open and giving with their information.
I just purchased the Facebook Ads course and encountered a technical difficulty. Andrew helped me straight away, even though I didn’t expect him to, as it was a Sunday.
I’ve been a guest on another dog photographer's podcast. Now my goal is to be a guest on Photobiz X, to talk about my Lifestyle Pet Photography Portrait business.
Thank you, Andrew, for all the amazing work you do.
★★★★★ This podcast is packed with value and insight!
Via Google reviews by Lausanne wedding and family photographer Michael Thompson, in Switzerland on September 1st, 2025.
Andrew is incredible! His podcast is packed with value and insight.
He has a rare gift for asking the exact questions we’re all thinking but might be too embarrassed or unsure to ask.
Every episode feels natural, engaging, and full of “aha” moments.
What truly sets him apart is how personal and accessible he is. Despite the size of the PhotoBizX community, Andrew goes above and beyond to connect with members and offer real support—it feels like a family.
If you want to truly understand the business side of photography, this is one of the very best podcasts out there. I couldn’t recommend it more!
Links to people, places and things mentioned in this episode:
Kirstie McConnell Gippsland Photographer, Mornington Peninsula Photographer
Classico Portraits – Italy Photographer
Episode 265: Kirstie McConnell – This is how to build a successful pet photography business
Episode 606: Caitlin McColl – From Postpartum Depression to Rebuilding a Thriving Photography Business
Episode 282: Caitlin McColl – How to run profitable book projects for portrait and pet photographers
Zoe Hiljemark – PR Specialist
Mariah Arianna – Copywriter
Thank you!
Big thanks to Kirstie for laying it all out—the wins, the messy middle, and the exact levers that moved the needle: relentless outreach, partner alignment with high-spend travellers, and SEO that quietly does the heavy lifting. If you’ve ever wanted a clean slate or you’re gearing up for a relaunch, this conversation shows what’s possible when you back yourself with a simple plan and consistent action. I’d love to hear your takeaway—what will you test first: partnerships, positioning, or that same-day sales flow?
I just started sending emails, email after email after email, and copy and paste by the end, because I realized people didn't really reply. And I had a look the other day, and I'm just quickly opening it now for you, Andrew, to double check. But I'm pretty sure I'm up to something like 380 emails that I've sent now, 380 different contacts that I've emailed. – Kirstie McConnell
That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business!
Thanks for listening—speak soon,
Andrew
The post 634: Kirstie McConnell – From Pets to Premium Portraits, Reinventing a Photography Business appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business. 

Sep 8, 2025 • 47min
633: Rebecca Hunnicutt – Building a Profitable, Adaptable & Fun Photography Business
 
Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area
Rebecca Hunnicutt of www.hunnicuttphotography.com is a lifestyle family, maternity and newborn photographer based in Portland, Oregon.
She first came onto my radar when I discovered her teaching photographers how to turn ordinary locations into amazing images with confidence and ease.
The more I dug, the more impressed I was — she runs photography classes for kids, works with pre-schools, creates profitable model call promotions, all while running a successful family photography business.
Her website is beautifully clear and easy to navigate, featuring stunning imagery and a pricing page that clearly states: Most families spend around $1,500.
I couldn’t wait to dive into this one.
In this interview, Rebecca shares how, like her, you can build a profitable, adaptable (to you) and fun photography business that you love!
Here's some more of what we covered in the interview:
How Rebecca built a thriving family and school photography business in Portland
The seasonal secret behind her profits — and why September to December makes all the difference
Balancing school photography with family life — Rebecca’s smart scheduling hack
Turning schools into goldmines: average spend per student and the role communication plays
Why converting school families into portrait clients isn’t as simple as it sounds
Teaching kids photography — how Rebecca fills her slow season with profitable camps
Model calls done right: boosting bookings while delighting clients
Pricing strategies that turn smaller sessions into big print and album sales
The automation hacks Rebecca leans on to handle high client volume without burning out
Why education matters — Rebecca’s move into courses, mentorship, and her “Sight Lines” brand
The juggling act: running multiple income streams without losing focus
Rebecca’s forward plan — refining camps, expanding education, and staying adaptable
The mindset shift that keeps her passionate, profitable, and always learning
 
What’s on Offer for Premium Members
If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews.
I do find that if a parent happens to be at the school and sees me photographing their kid, usually they reach out to me within 48 hours to book a family session… there is something about seeing the interaction, right? How I work with their kids, that sells them also, in addition to the work. – Rebecca Hunnicutt
You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find more friendly, motivated, caring and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all.
Kids make so many facial expressions right? In a short amount of time. And… they might have a look that they see all the time, and if I can capture that for them, even though I might not know that's something special, right? So I do try to have my goal is a minimum of three, but it's usually more like eight different images. – Rebecca Hunnicutt
In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, make you accountable, and build friendships with other pro photographers with motives similar to yours – to build a more successful photography business.
What is your big takeaway?
Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Rebecca shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on what you heard in today's episode.
When I have a fair number of grandmothers who hire me for extended family sessions, I always tell them, “I am here for you. I will help you design your album. I'll help you place that order”, because I know my own mother would be confused…If I can design an awesome album for them, they're usually like, Okay, I'll buy one for my daughter too. – Rebecca Hunnicutt
If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Rebecca, or a way to thank you for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below. 
iTunes Reviews and Shout-outs
I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show.
I work really hard on kind of funneling those families, particularly the right fit families, into my portrait business. So it's actually kind of a nice way for me to be introduced to them, and, you know, and then kind of get them into my ecosystem for my portrait business. – Rebecca Hunnicutt
If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes or https://photobizx.com/google. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them.
Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business.
Links to people, places and things mentioned in this episode:
Hunnicutt Photography Website
Hunnicutt Photography on Facebook
Rebecca Hunnicutt Education on Instagram
Rebecca Hunnicutt Photography on Instagram
Hunnicutt Photography on Pinterest
Hunnicutt Photography Education
Episode 279: Elena Blair – Content marketing for photographers and school portraiture with a killer difference
Episode 319: Elena Blair – How to introduce profitable school portraits to any photography business
Episode 424: Annemie Tonken – How to build a recurring photography income with portrait memberships
For me, why I love the school business. Because I'm really working while my kids are at school. And I can still do pickup, I can still do drop off, you know, field trips, that kind of thing. – Rebecca Hunnicutt
Thank you!
Big thanks to Rebecca for sharing so openly in this episode. From building a thriving family and school photography business to filling her slow season with kids’ camps, running profitable model calls, and stepping into education with her “Sight Lines” brand — she’s proof that multiple income streams don’t have to mean overwhelm. If you’ve ever wondered how to create a photography business that’s profitable, adaptable, and still leaves room for family and freedom, this interview should have been helpful and inspiring.
I’m definitely not trying to gatekeep the information or anything, but I had taken a class many, many years ago from Elena S. Blair called Schooled. And so that was kind of the foundation where I started my school business. And then, of course, it’s evolved into my own iteration. – Rebecca Hunnicutt
That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business!
Thanks, and speak soon
Andrew
The post 633: Rebecca Hunnicutt – Building a Profitable, Adaptable & Fun Photography Business appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business. 

Sep 1, 2025 • 44min
632: Jenna Harrison – Building a 3-Day Workweek Photography Business
 
Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area
Jenna Harrison of www.theuncommonway.com appears to be living her dream — and has been, ever since she threw in her great career to pursue her dreams of travel and freedom.
I first became aware of her when we connected via email, and she told me that she had built her business by implementing strategic constraints and sticking to a 3-day workweek.
Since then, she’s grown the business to a point that allowed her to retire her husband early, move their family to their dream location, buy their dream home, and live what she calls a “blue zone” lifestyle overseas.
As someone who’s all about living the life I want — and with that being the number one reason I started a photography business so that I could stop trading hours for money — I was keen to schedule this interview.
I did have some reservations, though.
Although she doesn’t label herself as a mindset coach, there’s definitely a hint of those “woo-woo” concepts that I’m a little wary of.
But then I read and watched some of the success stories from the business owners she’s helped… and it’s clear there’s a ton we can learn and apply to our own businesses.
In this interview, Jenna shares how you can build a 3-day workweek photography business by focusing on mindset, smart systems, and designing your business to serve the life you actually want.
Here's some more of what we covered in the interview:
From wedding bookings to world travel – how Jenna built freedom into her photography business
Why mindset, not marketing, became the secret weapon behind her rapid growth
The sales shift that turned awkward chats into confident, high-converting conversations
Breaking free from the business fishbowl and spotting opportunities others miss
How working with a Princeton-trained coach unlocked Jenna’s next level of success
The three pillars of a thriving photography business – unique offer, strong systems, CEO mindset
Pricing with confidence and why money mindset determines your income more than your skill
The discomfort hack – leaning into fear as the fuel for faster growth
From 30 days of going live to unstoppable visibility and resilience through practice
Why scheduling downtime is the real key to creativity and fresh photography ideas
CEO time vs editing time – how to structure your week for balance and growth
Building a sustainable business that thrives on your unique strengths and actually feels effortless
Overcoming scarcity thinking and shifting from “not enough” to “I’m worth it”
The small mindset tweaks that open the door to premium clients and bigger bookings
Smart systems that save hours and stop business overwhelm before it even starts
Living like the world’s healthiest communities – how Jenna’s Blue Zone lifestyle boosts her business success
 
What’s on Offer for Premium Members
If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews.
So whether someone's looking more for the strategy or looking more for the mindset, the truth is that it's always wrapped up together. If you don't believe in yourself, if you don't have the confidence to sell, if you don't have the mindset, then all the strategy in the world won't. – Jenna Harrison
You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find more friendly, motivated, caring and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all.
When airlines are selling a business class ticket, they're not like, “And if you buy business class, we're going to give you this, and we'll give you this and we'll give you this.” No, you get the business class. That's what you get, right? And plenty of people are happy to pay for that and wouldn't even want to go coach to save money. They want the business class experience. – Jenna Harrison
In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, make you accountable, and build friendships with other pro photographers with motives similar to yours – to build a more successful photography business.
What is your big takeaway?
Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Jenna shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on what you heard in today's episode.
I often say we think we're swimming in an ocean of possibilities, but the truth is, we're in a fishbowl inside the ocean, and that fishbowl is our mind, and it just filters opportunities. It filters possible decisions for us different ways of thinking. We don't realize it's happening, but unfortunately, we're limiting our moves, basically, if you think of it like chess, based on what we believe to be true, and often it's an unwritten script. We never get to see it, but it's still there in our brain. So once I opened up to unlocking some of those mindset pieces, all of a sudden, there were new opportunities I'd never considered. – Jenna Harrison
If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Jenna, or a way to thank you for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below. 
iTunes Reviews and Shout-outs
I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show.
Your life changes every time you take even one baby step in the direction of allowing tolerating discomfort, you open up possibilities for yourself that the old you wouldn't even have considered. – Jenna Harrison
If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes or https://photobizx.com/google. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them.
I now believe that I get as much from my clients as they get from me, and it's a really amazing, exciting partnership, and neither of us know where it's going to go. That's the great thing about coming together to create something new. – Jenna Harrison
Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business.
Links to people, places and things mentioned in this episode:
The Uncommon Way Website
The Uncommon Way on Instagram
The Uncommon Way on Facebook
Jenna Harrison on LinkedIn
The 3-Day Workweek Podcast
Hi, thank you so much for having me on the show! I realised afterwards that I wish I had pointed out that “mindset” is really no different than what pro athletes and the military have been focusing on for decades! (I have a certificate in leader development from the U.S. Army War College, their graduate-level institution.) In hindsight, I would’ve said, “And after hiring that mindset coach and unlocking those great benefits, I realised this is very similar to what goes on with pro athletes and the military.” (It’s just that sometimes you can’t see the forest through the trees when you’re in it yourself). – Jenna Harrison
Thank you!
Big thanks to Jenna for sharing her story in this episode. From building her business around a 3-day workweek to retiring her husband early, moving overseas, and embracing a Blue Zone lifestyle, she demonstrates what’s possible when mindset and freedom take precedence. If you’ve ever wondered how to design a photography business that genuinely supports the life you want, this conversation will spark plenty of ideas.
I believe that when you are really allowing that unique part of you to come forth, then business starts to fall into place. Right then you're really much more likely to connect with your ideal people. You're much more likely to stand out in the market and be able to charge premium prices. You're much more likely to be excited about what you're selling and to feel an integrity and feel conviction with it, and to look forward to it. – Jenna Harrison
That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business!
Thanks, and speak soon
Andrew
The post 632: Jenna Harrison – Building a 3-Day Workweek Photography Business appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business. 

Aug 25, 2025 • 0sec
631: Kelly Warkentin – Turning $150 Photography Sessions into 4-Figure Clients and a Life You Love
 
Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area
Kelly Warkentin of https://kindredphotography.ca/ and www.kellywarkentin.com is a Canadian-based family and newborn photographer, photography business coach, and mother of three.
Although she's coaching other photographers, shooting makes up 90% of her income and brings in over $85,000 in revenue.
She said in an email to me, as much as I love photography, running a business while raising young kids left her constantly torn — working late nights, saying yes to too much, and still not earning what she needed.
Then she restructured her business to serve her life.
Fewer clients.
Higher sales.
Better systems.
And the freedom to be present with her kids without sacrificing ambition.
Today, she's also coaching photographers on the system she uses with clients to hit regular 4-figure sessions to work less and focus on family.
In this interview, I was hoping to learn how photographers can earn more while working less, even with young kids at home, and Kelly didn't disappoint when she shared how to turn $150 photography sessions into 4-figure clients and a life you love.
Here's some more of what we covered in the interview:
How Kelly went from $150 shoots to $2K clients — and what really made the difference
The surprising way she finally found freedom in both motherhood and business
The bold move that shifted everything — and why SEO coaching changed the game
What happens on that very first call that gets dream clients saying yes
The pre-session secret that builds trust and makes sales feel effortless
Why albums turn out to be the easiest “yes” you’ll ever get from a client
How to sell without saying a word — the quiet power of artwork on your walls
The unexpected marketing mix that actually works when others don’t
Why a simple coffee chat can turn into a premium booking
How to attract high-achieving clients who happily pay more
The flexible, empathetic way to handle tricky client moments
The hidden growth drivers most photographers overlook — outsourcing, automation, and support
The one investment that always delivers the biggest return
 
What’s on Offer for Premium Members
If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews.
I continued to explore ways that I could increase my income, and I kind of stumbled upon just making myself more valuable by adding a luxury experience. So at that point, I transitioned to IPs, and my income per client jumped pretty much overnight, from 750 to $2,000. – Kelly Warkentin
You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find more friendly, motivated, caring and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all.
The system that I use is a la carte, because I don't like to put a ceiling on anything. – Kelly Warkentin
In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, make you accountable, and build friendships with other pro photographers with motives similar to yours – to build a more successful photography business.
What is your big takeaway?
Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Kelly shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on what you heard in today's episode.
Most of my clients are actually very impressed that I found time to get on the phone with them… I think it sets me apart, right? – Kelly Warkentin
If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Kelly, or a way to thank you for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below. 
iTunes Reviews and Shout-outs
I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show.
People trust people who show an interest in their lives, right? The number one way to get somebody to be like, “Oh, I really trust this person and believe she's going to be the best for me” is to show that you really care about what they're talking about and what they care about. – Kelly Warkentin
If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes or https://photobizx.com/google. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them.
There is nothing I want less than to someone get to, you know, their image selection and be like, I love all these images and I can't afford them, and now I'm upset because I didn't understand that this was going to cost me that much. I don't ever want to feel like people haven't bought in by the time we get to choosing their images. – Kelly Warkentin
Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business.
Links to people, places and things mentioned in this episode:
Kelly Warkentin Website
Kelly Warkentin Photography
Kelly Warkentin on Instagram
Kelly Warkentin on Facebook
The IPS Reboot: For Photographers Who Are So Over the Hustle Facebook Group
QT Albums
I would say you have to have an open mind and be willing to learn and admit when something you thought was not for you might be the right step. A growth mindset is really the big thing and a willingness to learn. – Kelly Warkentin
Thank you!
Big thanks to Kelly for sharing so openly in this episode. What I love about her story is how honest she is about the reality of running a photography business while raising young kids — the late nights, saying yes to too much, and still not earning enough. Then making the decision to flip things around and restructure her business to actually serve her life. Fewer clients, higher sales, better systems, and the freedom to be there and available with her family without losing ambition.
There’s plenty here to spark ideas if you’ve ever wondered how to earn more, work less, and finally create a photography business that fits the life you want. I’d love to hear what stands out most for you.
My goal is to be as honest and upfront as possible, because I don't ever want somebody to feel like they're hoodwinked into spending more than they need to, while also being accessible, right? – Kelly Warkentin
That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business!
Thanks, and speak soon
Andrew
The post 631: Kelly Warkentin – Turning $150 Photography Sessions into 4-Figure Clients and a Life You Love appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business. 


