Have you ever stopped to think about what makes your portrait session experience different than any other portrait studio? Is it the price?  The studio itself?  Sexy packaging? Digital files/no digital files?  None of the above? My guest today would submit that it's not about any of these things.   Differentiating yourself from other photographers is about the managing and creating the experience of capturing a moment with the people our clients love most. In this episode, Jed Taufer, a former podcaster turned Strategic Projects guru at White House Custom Colour joins us with his wealth of experience as both a portrait studio owner (with his wife, Vicky)  and a seasoned industry expert, Jed brings a unique perspective to the table when it comes to making the client experience something really special.  He also tells it like it is and is very funny (bonus).  Jed will inspire you to: Consider the importance of CONFIDENCE in your process–do you have confidence? Do you have a process?  The transformative power of putting the client at the center of your sales. To really THINK about what we want our clients to feel and experience during their time with us.  This episode will leave you feeling inspired to make your client’s experience, your products, and your business as special as you can. In this episode, you’ll learn:What clients really want out of a portrait sessionThe role your level of confidence plays in the processHow to determine and focus on what you want most for your clients
 Here’s a glance at this episode:[2:58] - Jed shares what things have looked like for him in the past few years.[4:39] - It can be tough for a photographer to shift from shoot and burn to selling finished products.[7:19] - Confidence is a really big part of the process.[9:03] - It is a disservice not to offer your clients products through sales.[12:03] - Jed describes the experience of being on the client side of things and seeing the final products and wanting all of it.[15:24] - We undervalue what the experience can actually be. It is the experience of being with and watching people they love.[17:25] - Are you using your talents in the highest way?[19:05] - You have to know what you really want. [22:24] - There are a lot of different directions you can go down when you answer the question, “What do you want?”[25:37] - You’re not going to get the time back. Work towards the things you want, not the things you don’t really care about.[28:13] - Building your confidence is a layer at a time.
 Links and Resources:  Jed Taufer Website | Instagram Do The ReWork Website | Instagram Allison Tyler Jones Website | Instagram | LinkedIn 
 


112 - Are You Making It Special? Client Experience with Jed Taufer

Wouldn’t it be great to have a combination business coach, psychologist, comedian and BFF to encourage you on those hard days when you’re ready to give up the whole photography biz?
A friend who will tell it to you straight, challenge your thinking and inspire you to completely ReWork your business? 

That’s exactly what you can expect from the ReWork Podcast with your host, portrait photographer and entrepreneur, Allison Tyler Jones. Her specialty? Motivating you to uniquely brand, profitably price and confidently sell your best work, all while giving your clients an experience they’ll never forget. 

Each episode is designed to give you tools for immediate action in the areas that will create the most value for your business.

Arts

Literature

Performing Arts

Design

Food

Fashion & Beauty

Visual Arts

Business

Investing

Careers

Management & Marketing

Business News

Shopping

Entrepreneurship

As we wrap up another incredible season of The ReWork podcast, I want to send you off for the summer with a little dose of inspiration to keep you motivated and empowered. Today, we're joined by a ReWork favorite guest, Kathryn Langsford, a seasoned portrait photographer and entrepreneur who's here to share her advice on overcoming fear and anxiety about your business. We all grapple with fears about our businesses.  It’s unavoidable.  And with the state of the world, it almost feels irresponsible NOT to be fearful. However, operating from a place of fear has never and will never serve you in a positive way.  There are actionable practices that can help prevent anxiety about our business from sending us into a self-defeating spiral. In this discussion, Kathryn and I discuss how to get out of your own way and put practical actions in place to move forward—even when we're super scared. From her almost 25 years of experience in the industry AND just LIFE, Kathryn has learned the importance of self-care, human connection, and taking action, no matter how small, to keep her momentum going. So as we head into the summer, consider these strategies for managing your own anxiety and navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.  In this episode, you’ll learn:The importance of making time for yourselfWays to identify anxiety and fear and what to do about itStrategies in moving forward in spite of your fear
 Here’s a glance at this episode:[3:16] - Kathryn has been in business for almost 25 years and ATJ has been in business for almost 20. They’ve been through ups and downs.[5:40] - Self-care is crucial. Kathryn makes sure that she has a lot of time for herself.[7:26] - Regularly making time for connections is important.[8:52] - During periods of extreme stress and even grief, Kathryn went into these phases of prioritizing self-care. Now, she integrates it into her regular living.[11:58] - The bottom has never fallen out so far. Take that high level fear out of a situation.[15:44] - Feelings are not facts.[17:06] - Taking action, even a small action, is forward momentum.[19:31] - For ATJ, the summer is time to get ready for a busier season. Everyone’s slow times might be different.[21:30] - Kathryn describes the schedule she maintains every month that has benefitted her wellbeing and her business.[24:14] - We are the ones in our own way.[26:14] - For a long time, Kathryn was convinced that successful business owners didn’t take weekends off.[28:14] - There are many things that we have no control over. It is freeing to know and accept that there are some things we cannot change.[30:16] - Fear kills so many parts of what we need to have a successful, thriving business.[31:32] - It is so beneficial to have a friend in the business.[34:20] - Be careful who you spend your time with. It is really easy to surround yourself with people who will pull you down.[36:43] - A great way to boost your confidence is to reach for the low-hanging fruit. [40:13] - If summer is your slow season, make a list of the things you can do to prepare for busier times.
 Links and Resources:  Download a Transcript Kathryn Langsford Website | Instagram Do The ReWork Website | Instagram Allison Tyler Jones Website | Instagram | LinkedIn 


119 - Overcoming Fear and Anxiety About Your Business with Kathryn Langsford

Nobody wants problems with clients. Many of us are sensitive, creative souls who prefer to avoid conflict at all costs. But the reality is, client problems will still happen. The key is to prevent as many of them as possible BEFORE they arise.  In this episode, we'll explore the "Five C's" of getting out ahead of client problems:  Clarity Conversation Consultation Confrontation and Closure By implementing these Five C's in your photography business, you'll not only anticipate, but prevent client problems, while you enhance your processes and client relationships over time. In this episode, you’ll learn:The Five C’s to prevent client problemsWays to implement each part of the processHow to handle mistakes that can actually boost your image
 Here’s a glance at this episode:[2:33] - Number 1: Clarity. Make it clear what you do and how you do it.[3:54] - Sometimes it can be very confusing when we want to change things. We need to be clear.[4:59] - Number 2: Have a voice-to-voice conversation, not just a text or an email.[7:08] - Don’t just send a price list as a response to an email or DM.[8:10] - Number 3: Have a client consultation. This is where we put together a game plan.[9:25] - If the client consultation goes well, you’ll have a new loyal client or clients will weed themselves out.[11:52] - Number 4: Confront the elephant in the room. These are the frequently asked difficult questions. We know they’re coming.[13:03] - Not talking about digital files and pricing will only create a disappointed client. Don’t be afraid to confront these two items early.[15:06] - Even if they haven’t asked about the price, we confront it right away.[18:04] - It is recommended to define the scope of work and dive into the details later.[19:10] - Number 5: Closure. This phase looks like an assessment.[20:40] - If something goes wrong, sit in the discomfort and find where it went wrong.[21:47] - The way you handle a mistake can be your best marketing.[27:27] - There’s no wasted experience unless we’re unwilling to learn from it.[28:42] - Employing these Five C’s in your business will make your process better and better every time. You will improve exponentially and so quickly.
 Links and Resources:  Download a Transcript Podcast Episode #003 - Having a Successful Initial Client Call Do The ReWork Website | Instagram Allison Tyler Jones Website | Instagram | LinkedIn 


118 - Preventing Client Problems Before They Happen with ATJ

If only we could actually do all the things our clients THINK we can do in Photoshop….am I right? Today, we're digging into the world of portrait retouching – that magical process where we take already stunning images and make them even more polished and perfect. And that means, Stacey Hemeyer, ATJ Photo’s Associate Photographer and Retoucher Extraordinaire is joining us for a long overdue convo about all things retouching. Clients may come to us with wild expectations, thinking we can perform Photoshop miracles and transform them into unrecognizable beings; and sometimes we can, but SHOULD we? And then there are clients who are completely wowed by what they thought would BE impossible. Retouching can absolutely change a client’s experience, but we’ve got to know how to balance expectations with results. Stacey shares valuable insights on how to handle these situations with grace and professionalism, ensuring that our clients understand what's possible and what's NOT. We’ll also cover some essential tips and tricks for navigating the delicate balance between enhancing images and maintaining authenticity.  We’ll be discussing retouching preferences with clients before a session and whether or not you should provide proofs for approval prior to printing.  It's not always smooth sailing in the world of portrait retouching but Stacey shares some entertaining and enlightening stories about retouching gone wrong – and right! – giving us valuable lessons on what to do and what to avoid. In this episode, you’ll learn:The appropriate times to retouchQuestions to ask clients before and during a shoot regarding retouchingSituations where retouching should be avoided
 Here’s a glance at this episode:[3:16] - Sometimes clients have questions about retouching before a session. Stacey explains to clients that the photos need to look like them.[4:39] - The amount of retouching also depends on who is buying the photo.[6:37] - Photographers all have a different philosophy on retouching and the type of shoot it is makes a difference.[8:40] - You have to consider your brand when you’re retouching. What do you want people to notice about your work?[10:39] - Stacey shares a story about unrealistic expectations.[12:41] - The majority of ATJ clients approve retouches after the first viewing of them.[13:50] - Stacey provides retouches as a proof with a watermark in a PDF through email.[16:03] - Managing the back and forth can be a challenge, but there are some solutions.[17:56] - Stacey shares how she learned the lesson that just because you can do something, doesn’t mean you should.[19:33] - There are things that are definitely a no-no when it comes to what to retouch.[22:11] - Guide clients with questions about retouching things out, like braces, scars, and acne.[26:12] - Allison shares the story of how retouching and reprinting a family portrait absolutely changed a negative into a positive.
 Links and Resources:  Download a Transcript Do The ReWork Website | Instagram Allison Tyler Jones Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

117 - Just Because You Can Doesn’t Mean You Should: Retouching with Stacey Hemeyer

Today's episode is one that hits close to home for many of us: using charitable auction events as a way to market our photography businesses. Now, before you roll your eyes or sigh in frustration, let's discuss.  Donating a session to a good cause SEEMS like a great idea.  We cross our fingers for some buzz and new clients, only to feel a bit let down by:Never hearing from the auction winners at allA less-than-amazing sale after shooting our hearts outA battle with a new client over pricing and what was (or wasn’t) included in the gift certificate
 Maybe at this point, you’ve given up on auctions altogether.  Not so fast! Charitable auctions really are fantastic opportunities to not only attract right-fit clients, but also give back to the community. You just have to do them right. In this episode, we'll discuss the potential pitfalls and offer practical solutions to ensure your charitable auction endeavors are a resounding success. From the frustration of auction winners not redeeming their certificates to the challenge of attracting bids in the first place, we'll address the key issues photographers face in this type of marketing. Whether it's setting clear criteria for your donations, optimizing your display, or refining your auction strategy, we'll explore quick and easy steps you can take to make charitable auctions work wonders for your business. In this episode, you’ll learn:The common problems photographers face with this type of marketingHow these problems can be addressed and preventedQuestions to ask yourself when a charitable auction is not a success
 Here’s a glance at this episode:[2:06] - Have you tried this before? Many photographers have given up.[4:10] - This is one way that we have built a great new client pipeline.[5:35] - One way to avoid the problem of auction winners not redeeming their certificate is to donate with specific criteria.[7:27] - What happens if no one bids on your stuff? A better question would be, “Why is no one bidding?”[9:24] - Whatever is on your display will attract the people who want it. Be intentional.[10:27] - There are in-person and online silent auctions and they are very different.[12:32] - When someone wins an auction, what happens next? Some winners only want what is free and that isn’t going to be a client that sticks around.[15:15] - In the donation itself, you may be donating way too much or not enough.[16:38] - Donating something that requires a ton of work and time from you is a huge mistake.[17:51] - Learn what the sweet spot has been for us.[19:37] - We need to know and set the rules and requirements clearly.[21:23] - Rework your auctions through rules, displays, and being organized and prepared.[24:24] - Reflect on where you might be making a mistake in charitable auctions that might just need a little fix.
 Links and Resources:  Download a Transcript Do The ReWork Website | Instagram Allison Tyler Jones Website | Instagram | LinkedIn 


116 - Marketing With Charitable Auctions: Yay or Nay?

This episode is a special treat as we sit down with Lesa Daniel from Gregory Daniel Portraits and their legendary studio manager, Pat Chivers. If you've ever heard Lesa or Gregory's discussions, you've undoubtedly heard tales of Pat's indispensable role in their studio's success. In our conversation with Lesa and Pat, we explore the intricacies of studio management and team dynamics, and how Gregory Daniel Portraits thrives with a small-but-mighty team. From the luxurious client experience they cultivate to the behind-the-scenes magic orchestrated by Pat, you’ll learn how they seamlessly divide duties and leverage each other's strengths.  You may be a solopreneur considering your first employee or a seasoned business owner looking to expand or make changes. Regardless of your situation, I’m convinced that every team needs a person like Pat. In this episode, you’ll learn:What qualities to look for in a new employeeWhy hiring a team member is valuableWhat NOT to do when hiring an employeeThe surprising places you might find the perfect person
 Here’s a glance at this episode:[3:31] - Gregory Daniel Portraits is a luxury studio that focuses on spoiling their clients.[4:45] - This team of three splits up duties and Lesa describes the role they each play.[8:01] - Pat describes what she does for the studio in the background as the “air traffic controller.”[9:35] - The duties are split by strengths and interests. They all rely on each other.[11:43] - They don’t micromanage each other. They are all trusted in their roles and duties.[14:29] - When everybody owns their job and they are proficient at what they do, they trust each other.[18:17] - Taxes can be outsourced, but Pat is also in charge of managing that for the business as well.[19:52] - Write out duties if you need clarity or if you are just starting out.[20:39] - Separate yourself from the people you are hiring. You don’t want them to be exactly like you.[22:37] - Don’t dismiss the people who love the things you don’t like to do. Value their strengths and accept that you need someone who can do the things you can’t.[25:02] - Lesa and Pat discuss mistakes people make when hiring new employees.[26:58] - Lesa highly recommends doing a quick weekly meeting with team members to make sure everyone is on the same page.[29:17] - Always say thank you to your employees as they leave.[30:28] - Pat has very little client contact. She explains some of the tasks she does for the business.[32:44] - Pat is bringing all of her experiences in the world to her job and to her employers as ways to improve the business.[35:15] - “I have people for that.”[37:19] - Lesa describes how she interacts with different types of clients and what she handles in her role at the studio.[38:49] - It is important for every photographer to know that they are not going to be the right person for every client.[41:22] - Lesa and Gregory have been in business for 44 years and really know what they each do well in the team.[44:09] - Don’t pigeonhole yourself into thinking you need a full time employee. You might need somebody to work a few hours a week on tasks you are not good at.[46:49] - Word of mouth and referrals are great. The people you are looking for could be a friend of someone you know.[49:19] - Allison has had many employees and would rather have somebody who is a go-getter over someone she has to micromanage.[53:01] - Have a trial period for new hires to make sure it is a good fit for you and the team member.
 Links and Resources:  Lesa Daniel and Pat Chivers Gregory Daniel Portraits Website Do The ReWork Website | Instagram Allison Tyler Jones Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

112 - Are You Making It Special? Client Experience with Jed Taufer

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