Dirk Witt is the lab rep for Midsouth Color Lab, a professional photographic service that caters to the photographer that requires excellence both in the printing and service. A photographer himself since 1992, he joined Midsouth in 2008 and has become a good friend and part of Luci's success team. Having a great relationship/ with a lab/becoming part of their "family" is an essential element in growing and maintaining a highly profitable business and this episode covers lots of basics as to why and how to get the best from themIn this episode, Luci and Dirk discuss:* The benefits of having a relationship with a photo lab* How to work with a great lab and grow your business* Color and composition when printing photos and how to adjust it to one's own desire  Key Takeaways: * Wall portraits are the most profitable items* Stick to what is known to be most trustworthy in times where technology is changing and transitioning* Get familiar with a single lab that you know will provide you the best quality service, being partners and help each other to achieve the desired goal "Partners, we like to be partners. We want to help each other and help them lift their photography to the best it can be" — Dirk Witt   Connect with Dirk Witt: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MidSouthColorLabs (https://www.facebook.com/MidSouthColorLabs)Website: https://www.midsouthcolor.com/ (https://www.midsouthcolor.com/)Email: info@midsouthcolor.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dirk-witt-1529a07 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dirk-witt-1529a07) Connect with Luci Dumas:Twitter: @lucidumas (https://twitter.com/lucidumas) Facebook: facebook.com/LuciDumasInsightTrainingForPhotographers (https://www.facebook.com/LuciDumasInsightTrainingForPhotographers/) Website: www.lucidumascoaching.com (http://www.lucidumascoaching.com/) Email: luci@lucidumas.com Show: To Be Added LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/luci-dumas (https://d.docs.live.net/47d117867a260c0f/Strickland/Profitable%20Photo/linkedin.com/in/luci-dumas)

013 Dirk Witt: Partnership with your Photo Lab and how it leads to more success

Do you have a dream?

A big, exciting and maybe a little scary dream to have a successful, profitable and creative photography business doing exactly what you love for wonderful, grateful clients? Or do you want to bring your business to the next level of fun and profit.? If so, then this Podcast is for you.

For over 36 years, I have made a great living as portrait and wedding business, Luci Dumas Fine Photography, with no other source of income. No rich husband or lottery winnings, through the ups and downs of the industry and economy.

Now as a business coach with Insight Training for Photographers, I love love love to support photographers who want to do the same. This podcast is full of practical business info, and insights gained from my years in business, plus interviews with amazing people. My desire is to help you along on your joyful journey to success, however that looks to you. Feel free to connect with me at www.lucidumascoaching.com to learn about my training options.

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So nice I am sharing it twice! Some great things deserve to be enjoyed more than once. This episode from 2 years ago with ProSelect Guru Ron Nichols is one of those. He has mastered the art of sales and has some great advice to help others do the same.Ron Nichols has excelled at In-person sales long before the term IPS was coined. Since graduating from college with an art degree, Ron has owned a studio where he perfected studio sales from both the psychological and technical aspects. He has worked closely with many software companies in creating applications that optimize sales efficiency while capitalizing on emotion and enabling back-end workflows.Ron has worked for many of the country’s top image-makers in developing sales processes and workflow schemes to increase studio profitability. His work now is exclusive as CEO of Pro Studio Sofware, Inc, since the acquisition of ProSelect. Ron’s photographic work and industry service have garnered awards from around the world. He has taught throughout the globe and is a PPA International Juror, Jury Chairman, and past PPA President. He is a member of the elite group, the Society of XXV.He has some great tips about in-person sales and workflow, making this an episode you won’t want to miss.You won’t want to miss:* All about his workflow.* The red flags you need to be on the lookout for.* His top sales tips.* What it’s like to be a CEO.Ron’s knowledge is top of the line. Be sure to tune it!Connect with Ron:* Website ProStudioSoftware.com (http://ProStudioSoftware.com) RonNichols.com (http://RonNichols.com)* https://www.instagram.com/i.ronnichols/ (https://www.instagram.com/i.ronnichols/)* Facebook ProSelect* Twitter ProStudioSWtheRonNicholsConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: * Website (https://lucidumascoaching.com/) * Email: luci@lucidumas.com (mailto:luci@lucidumas.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theprofitablephotographer_pod/) * Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LuciDumasCoaching)* YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCut3Qk6t6Z2DUJYEYGSCfKA)

254: Ron Nichols - In Person Sales/ Pro Select Tips for Photographers (replay)

Welcome to The Profitable Photographer Podcast! This week, I am delighted to share a conversation with Master Craftsman Bruce Hirsch, an amazing photographer and smart businessman as well. With a career spanning over 42 years, Bruce's passion lies in capturing the essence of families, though he's also had the honor of photographing Presidents, politicians, and sports celebrities..He shares how he booked an astounding 142 appointments in just 5 days doing what he call “Club Portraits”.! Discover his innovative approach to marketing without the use of paid ads, social media ads, TV ads, or direct mail. Uncover Bruce's secrets to success and his unwavering dedication to his craft.In this episode:* Discover Bruce’s “zone of genius”* How Bruce managed to to photograph presidents and celebrities* Explore the world of country clubs and how he turns relationships into a great specialty* Gain sales insights and tips for maximizing profits in your photography businessTune in now for an inspiring journey filled with invaluable tips and fascinating tales from the lens, guaranteed to give you some new ideas and ways to become even more profitable.!Connect with Bruce Hirsch: * Website (http://www.hirschstudio.com/) * Email: bruce@hirschstudio.com (mailto:bruce@hirschstudio.com)* Apply to be coached by Bruce (http://www.hirschstudio.com/for-photographers)* Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/HirschStudioFamilies)Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: * Website (https://lucidumascoaching.com/) * Email: luci@lucidumas.com (mailto:luci@lucidumas.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theprofitablephotographer_pod/) * Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LuciDumasCoaching)* YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCut3Qk6t6Z2DUJYEYGSCfKA)

253: Bruce Hirsch - Book 142 Session in 5 Days

Welcome to Luci Dumas's podcast “The Profitable Photographer”. This is a solo episode helping you “say no to CHEESE smiles”. I dive deep into the art of getting authentic expression from your subjects, whether they're children or adults. Say goodbye to forced grins and cheesy poses. I share tons of practical tips and tricks.After 40 years as a children’s portrait specialist, I have tons of ways I put children at ease and get those all-important reactions that are the key to true portrait art.In this episode,I help you capture genuine emotions that melt parent’s hearts and help you have bigger sales, not to mention more fun with the kids.It is important to1-Plan Ahead: Preparation is key. Anticipating the needs and preferences of your subjects can handle a lot of challenges before they start.2—Know the stages of childhood: Understanding the age group you're working with allows you to tailor your approach and connect with your subjects on a deeper level.3-Get on their Level: Literally and figuratively. I explore the importance of physical positioning and empathetic communication to establish rapport.4-Talk to Them: Have fun with them. Communication is key. Luci reveals the power of connection.Unlocking Playfulness with Props and Activities -I also share my favorite props and activities that unleash real smiles. Some include storytelling, silly songs, words that get true reactions. I also share about* Tripods: why I find them so important* Ways to loosen up facial muscles and encourage natural expressions.* Toys Galore: From soft bunnies, the tickle monster, and dog toys, I share my favorites that spark joy and get kid’s attentionNo matter how great your posing, lighting, locations or backgrounds, and props are…the key to successful photographs of children is to make them feel comfortable, engaged, and entertained so their true personalities shine through. Hope this episode helps you make what you do just a little bit better.Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: * Website (https://lucidumascoaching.com/) * Email: luci@lucidumas.com (mailto:luci@lucidumas.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theprofitablephotographer_pod/) * Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LuciDumasCoaching)* YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCut3Qk6t6Z2DUJYEYGSCfKA)

252: Luci Dumas - Tips For Getting Natural Expressions from Kids

Welcome to this week's episode, where we're joined by the delightful Betsy Bird from “Ride the Sky Equine Photography”! Betsy, a Certified Professional Photographer with PPA, brings her radiant energy and wealth of experience to the table, offering insights into mastering time management for busy photographers.Horses have always been at the core of Betsy's journey, stemming from her upbringing on a horse-boarding farm in Georgia. From riding to judging and to capturing their essence through her lens, her passion for equines shines through in her work. With a background in both photography and marketing, Betsy's expertise extends beyond just capturing moments; she's a whiz at branding, goal-setting, and running a profitable business.Specializing in wall art portraits, Betsy's photography isn't just about images—it's about turning moments into timeless memories. Join us as we delve into the world of time management with Betsy Bird, where passion meets proficiency, and every click of the shutter is an opportunity to craft something truly magical. Get ready to be inspired and equipped with the tools to make your photography journey not just successful, but truly joyful!In this episode:* Pro tips for in-person sales* Strategies to set goals from long-term to short-term and grasp the bigger picture* Techniques for working smarter, not harder* Effective time management for busy schedules through automation* The significance of outsourcing* Embracing the importance of following your passionSo, let's harness the power of time management and creativity together, and ride into a future filled with endless possibilities in the world of photography!Connect with Betsy Bird: * Website (https://ridetheskyequine.com/)* Email: betsy@ridetheskyequine.com (mailto:betsy@ridetheskyequine.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ridetheskyequine)* Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ridetheskyequine)Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: * Website (https://lucidumascoaching.com/) * Email: luci@lucidumas.com (mailto:luci@lucidumas.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theprofitablephotographer_pod/) * Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LuciDumasCoaching)* YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCut3Qk6t6Z2DUJYEYGSCfKA)

251: Betsy Bird - Time Management for Super Busy Photographers

Welcome, lovely listeners, to a special episode of LUCI! Can you believe it? We've reached a whopping 250 episodes! It's time to kick back, relax, and celebrate the journey we've been on together.Why Do I Keep Doing This?: Let's dive into the heart of the matter. Why do I keep pouring my heart and soul into this podcast? Sure, it's a labor of love, but there's more to it than that. From making new friends to spreading joy across 97 countries (and counting!), the reasons are as diverse as the guests we've welcomed on the show.Highlights and Insights: What have I learned along the way? Oh, where do I begin? From mastering model calls for steady profits to finding inspiration in tales of creativity, each episode has been a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. We've tackled everything from overcoming objections to manifesting dreams, all while sharing stories from industry superstars and rising stars alike.Shoutouts and Gratitude: A massive thank you to every guest who has graced our virtual stage, from business geniuses to pet photographers, presidents of spas, and beyond. You've brought wisdom, laughter, and endless inspiration to our listeners around the globe. And to our loyal listeners, thank you for your unwavering support. You're the reason we do what we do!Looking Ahead: As we raise our glasses to 250 episodes of The Profitable Photographer with Luci Dumas, let's not forget that the best is yet to come. We'll keep exploring, learning, and laughing together, bringing you more of the content you love. So stay tuned, because the adventure is far from over!Conclusion: From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Here's to the next 250 episodes and beyond! Keep shining bright, keep chasing your dreams, and above all, keep listening to LUCI!Remember to subscribe, rate, and review – and until next time, keep spreading the light!Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: * Website (https://lucidumascoaching.com/) * Email: luci@lucidumas.com (mailto:luci@lucidumas.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theprofitablephotographer_pod/) * Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LuciDumasCoaching)* YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCut3Qk6t6Z2DUJYEYGSCfKA)

013 Dirk Witt: Partnership with your Photo Lab and how it leads to more success

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