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As kind, accommodating portrait photographers, we seem wired to constantly ask ourselves, “How can I add more?”
More services. More products. More options. More experience to my experience!
Doesn’t adding MORE make it MORE VALUABLE to my client?
What if adding more is actually costing you in ways you might not have considered?
This week on The ReWork, I’m joined by Nicole Gates—former FBI agent turned full-time portrait photographer (yes, really)—who learned (the hard way) that more often leads to less…
Less clarity.
Less client connection.
Which in turn leads to…More confusion.
And yes—way more exhaustion and, finally back to LESS money in the bank.
Nicole shares her journey from offering six hour portrait sessions with hair, makeup, multiple clothing changes to streamlining her process, simplifying her service, and creating more powerful, connected work.
But we go deeper than that. Nicole also opens up about:
You'll laugh. You'll nod. You might even rethink everything you’re offering right now.
Becaus, if you do it right?
Less really can be more.
We talk about:
If you have ever felt like you’re throwing too much at the wall (in business or life) and wondering why it’s not sticking—this one is definitely for you.
Timestamps:
[3:26] At 55, Nicole started her business after retiring from the FBI, balancing multiple roles in McAllen, Texas.
[6:02] Initially pursuing newborn photography, Nicole shifted to glamour portraits to empower women through confidence.
[8:47] Nicole's FBI experience in trust-building and listening helps her create meaningful portraits.
[10:27] Nicole guides women to embrace their strength and confidence, fostering a safe, empowering photoshoot experience.
[13:13] Although she was initially against boudoir photography, Nicole now balances it with family shoots.
[16:06] Nicole reflects on having overcome imposter syndrome, now trusting her photography skills without overcompensating.
[19:03] Nicole's FBI career led her to inspiring local women.
[21:49] Hear how Nicole learned to simplify, focus on relationships, and create lasting client experiences.
[24:19] Nicole now shoots with intention, prioritizing quality over quantity.
[27:44] Nicole came to embrace the idea that "less is more.”
[30:33] Nicole sees her age as a badge of honor and embraces her style,
[33:52] Striving for balance, Nicole is learning to work smarter while prioritizing family and personal growth.
[36:57] Although she loves books, Nicole rarely finds time to read and favors watching Spanish dramas while editing.
Click here to listen!
“I love ATJ & The ReWork!.” <– If that sounds like you, please take a minute and rate and review the show! This helps us support more portrait photographers — just like you — move toward building the PROFITABLE, sustainable businesses that they really want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let ME know what you loved most about the episode (and any topics you are dying to learn about).
Also, if you haven’t already, FOLLOW the podcast. We’ll be adding some bonus episodes to the feed this season, and if you’re not following, you’ll miss out. Follow now!
You can also email me directly with your suggestions at: [email protected] - OR DM me directly on Instagram @atjphoto or @do.the.rework
We’d love to hear your thoughts, suggestions and ideas!
Links and Resources:
Download a Transcript
Ultimate Client Consultation Form
Frequently Asked Difficult Questions (FADQ’s)
Sales Sabotage Evaluation Tool
Allison Tyler Jones Education Courses
Jack Mitchell - Hug Your Customers
Do The ReWork
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Allison Tyler Jones
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn
Nicole Gates
Website | Instagram 1 | Instagram 2 | Instagram 3 | Facebook | Pinterest
5
5757 ratings
As kind, accommodating portrait photographers, we seem wired to constantly ask ourselves, “How can I add more?”
More services. More products. More options. More experience to my experience!
Doesn’t adding MORE make it MORE VALUABLE to my client?
What if adding more is actually costing you in ways you might not have considered?
This week on The ReWork, I’m joined by Nicole Gates—former FBI agent turned full-time portrait photographer (yes, really)—who learned (the hard way) that more often leads to less…
Less clarity.
Less client connection.
Which in turn leads to…More confusion.
And yes—way more exhaustion and, finally back to LESS money in the bank.
Nicole shares her journey from offering six hour portrait sessions with hair, makeup, multiple clothing changes to streamlining her process, simplifying her service, and creating more powerful, connected work.
But we go deeper than that. Nicole also opens up about:
You'll laugh. You'll nod. You might even rethink everything you’re offering right now.
Becaus, if you do it right?
Less really can be more.
We talk about:
If you have ever felt like you’re throwing too much at the wall (in business or life) and wondering why it’s not sticking—this one is definitely for you.
Timestamps:
[3:26] At 55, Nicole started her business after retiring from the FBI, balancing multiple roles in McAllen, Texas.
[6:02] Initially pursuing newborn photography, Nicole shifted to glamour portraits to empower women through confidence.
[8:47] Nicole's FBI experience in trust-building and listening helps her create meaningful portraits.
[10:27] Nicole guides women to embrace their strength and confidence, fostering a safe, empowering photoshoot experience.
[13:13] Although she was initially against boudoir photography, Nicole now balances it with family shoots.
[16:06] Nicole reflects on having overcome imposter syndrome, now trusting her photography skills without overcompensating.
[19:03] Nicole's FBI career led her to inspiring local women.
[21:49] Hear how Nicole learned to simplify, focus on relationships, and create lasting client experiences.
[24:19] Nicole now shoots with intention, prioritizing quality over quantity.
[27:44] Nicole came to embrace the idea that "less is more.”
[30:33] Nicole sees her age as a badge of honor and embraces her style,
[33:52] Striving for balance, Nicole is learning to work smarter while prioritizing family and personal growth.
[36:57] Although she loves books, Nicole rarely finds time to read and favors watching Spanish dramas while editing.
Click here to listen!
“I love ATJ & The ReWork!.” <– If that sounds like you, please take a minute and rate and review the show! This helps us support more portrait photographers — just like you — move toward building the PROFITABLE, sustainable businesses that they really want. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let ME know what you loved most about the episode (and any topics you are dying to learn about).
Also, if you haven’t already, FOLLOW the podcast. We’ll be adding some bonus episodes to the feed this season, and if you’re not following, you’ll miss out. Follow now!
You can also email me directly with your suggestions at: [email protected] - OR DM me directly on Instagram @atjphoto or @do.the.rework
We’d love to hear your thoughts, suggestions and ideas!
Links and Resources:
Download a Transcript
Ultimate Client Consultation Form
Frequently Asked Difficult Questions (FADQ’s)
Sales Sabotage Evaluation Tool
Allison Tyler Jones Education Courses
Jack Mitchell - Hug Your Customers
Do The ReWork
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Allison Tyler Jones
Website | Instagram | LinkedIn
Nicole Gates
Website | Instagram 1 | Instagram 2 | Instagram 3 | Facebook | Pinterest
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