279 - Have you ever caught yourself procrastinating, undercharging, or shying away from marketing your business? It’s not laziness—it’s Success Intolerance. 

In this episode, we uncover why success can feel unsafe and how to rewire your brain to embrace the next level of your business.

What to Listen For:

• What success intolerance is and why it keeps photographers stuck
• Why your brain sees growth as a threat, even when you want it
• The five most common ways photographers block their own success
• The real reason you procrastinate on marketing and pricing updates
• The powerful mindset shifts to rewire your beliefs around success
• How tracking small wins helps retrain your brain for success
• The number one coaching event that will help you break through your biggest blocks

Success isn’t just about strategy—it’s about how you see yourself. If you’re struggling with self-doubt, undercharging, or avoiding growth, it’s time to break through those hidden barriers. Inside Elevate, we help photographers normalize success, build confidence, and create profitable businesses without feeling overwhelmed. And if you want a taste of this work, join us for Coach Week!

📅 Coach Week is happening on February 25-27 at 2 PM EST. It's totally free, packed with mindset shifts and live coaching that will change the way you see your business. Don’t miss this chance to experience the power of coaching for yourself!

🔗 Sign up now at hairofthedogacademy.com/coachweek

 

Ready to Break Through What's Holding You Back in Your Photography Business? Join Coach Week here!

Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

JOIN THE PARTY:

• Connect with us on Instagram
• Explore valuable pet photography resources here
• Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers.
• Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that.
• Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

278 - Ever wonder what tools, products, and software I absolutely cannot live without in my photography business? From the best print labs to time-saving editing software, I’m sharing all my favorite things in this episode. 

No, I’m not giving away a car (sorry, Oprah vibes not included!), but I am giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the must-have tools that make my photography business run smoother and more profitably.

What to Listen For:

• The one product I highlight in every client consultation (and why it’s a must-have!)
• My new “classic collection” print option that’s stunning and affordable
• The editing software that’s saved me hours (and how to get 1,500 free edits!)
• Why I’m switching my album vendor (and who I’m moving to!)
• The press print company I trust for my marketing materials
• A behind-the-scenes look at my photography studio’s new workflow
• My secret to pre-designing albums in under 10 minutes
• How to streamline client onboarding with this all-in-one studio management tool
• The scheduling software update I’m super excited about

That’s a wrap on my list of must-have photography tools and products! Whether you’re looking to streamline your workflow, upgrade your print offerings, or save time on editing, I hope you found some game-changing ideas in this episode. 

Got a favorite product or tool you swear by? Shoot me a DM on Instagram @NicoleBegleyOfficial and let me know!

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss our upcoming 10-part pricing series—you won’t want to miss it!

Important Links Mentioned:

• Hair of the Dog Academy – Master the craft of pet photography: www.hairofthedogacademy.com
• Freedom Focus Formula – Sell without feeling pushy & reach $2,000+ sales: www.freedomfocusformula.com
• Elevate Coaching Program – Crack the code to booking more clients: www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate
• Commercial Pet Photography Academy – Learn the world of commercial pet photography: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial
• Imagen.ai – AI editing software for photographers: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/imagen
• CloudSpot – Online galleries & studio management: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/cloudspot
• Pixellu SmartAlbums – Easy album design: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/pixellu

Ready to Break Through What's Holding You Back in Your Photography Business? Join Coach Week here!

Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

JOIN THE PARTY:

• Connect with us on Instagram
• Explore valuable pet photography resources here
• Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers.
• Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that.
• Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

277 - What if you could streamline your photography sales process, save time, and still hit $6K average sales? 

This week, I’m chatting with Courtney Bryson of CM Bryson Photography, who’s mastered a unique approach to client sales. Living in a town of just 800 people, Courtney has found innovative ways to serve her clients through boutique, high-touch experiences—even without in-person meetings. 

Tune in to learn how her hybrid video sales method is transforming her business and what it can do for yours!
 
 What to Listen For:

• The simple tools Courtney uses to implement her hybrid sales process.
• How to design pre-session consultations that set clients up for success.
• Why pre-designed albums and wall art galleries are game-changers.
• Courtney’s approach to managing client expectations with video presentations.
• The importance of showing clients physical samples—no matter your sales method.
• How Courtney’s sales averages have steadily grown to $6,000 (and beyond!).
• A step-by-step walkthrough of her sales workflow, from inquiry to final product.
• Who should consider this hybrid video sales approach—and what you’ll need to get started.

Courtney’s hybrid video sales method proves that you can simplify your workflow, serve clients better, and increase your average sales—all while having more time freedom. If you’re looking for a way to enhance your client experience and boost your profitability, this episode is a must-listen!

Links and Resources

• CM Bryson Photography: https://cmbryson.com
• Courtney's Video Sales for Photographers: https://cmbryson.com/video-sales-for-photographers
• Hair of the Dog Academy: www.hairofthedogacademy.com
• Freedom Focus Formula: www.freedomfocusformula.com
• Elevate Program: www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate
• Commercial Pet Photography Academy: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial

Ready to Break Through What's Holding You Back in Your Photography Business? Join Coach Week here!

Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

JOIN THE PARTY:

• Connect with us on Instagram
• Explore valuable pet photography resources here
• Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers.
• Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that.
• Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

276 - Are you ready to fill your marketing jar?

This week, I’m chatting with Dayna Schaaf from This Can’t Be That Hard about how to create a powerful marketing plan tailored to your photography business. We’ll cover everything from big-picture campaigns to maximizing social media, so you’ll leave with a clear, actionable strategy to grow your business this year!

What to listen for:

• What the “marketing jar” is and how it can transform your strategy.
• Why social media isn’t your only (or best) marketing tool.
• How to identify your marketing “rocks” and why they should come first.
• Easy blogging topics you can start with today.
• Why email marketing is non-negotiable—and how to get started.
• Practical advice for creating consistent social media content.
• Dana’s best advice for photographers feeling overwhelmed by marketing.

If marketing has ever felt overwhelming or unclear, this episode is your roadmap to success. By breaking down your marketing strategy into manageable steps, you’ll be able to focus your energy on what works and build a sustainable system for growth. Ready to fill your marketing jar? Start with one “rock” and watch your business flourish!

Don’t forget to grab Dana’s free Marketing Jar Worksheet at www.thiscantbethathard.com/marketingjar, and let us know how you’re putting these ideas into action.

Important Links:

• Download Dana’s Marketing Jar Worksheet: www.thiscantbethathard.com/marketingjar
• Hair of the Dog Academy: www.hairofthedogacademy.com
• Freedom Focus Formula: www.freedomfocusformula.com
• Elevate Program: www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate
• Commercial Pet Photography Academy: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial

Connect with Dayna

• This Can't Be That Hard Website
• This Can't Be That Hard Facebook
• This Can't Be That Hard on Instagram
• The Trio of Trouble on Instagram

Ready to Break Through What's Holding You Back in Your Photography Business? Join Coach Week here!

Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

JOIN THE PARTY:

• Connect with us on Instagram
• Explore valuable pet photography resources here
• Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers.
• Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that.
• Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

275 - Do you really believe you’re capable of building the photography business of your dreams?

In this powerful episode, Nicole and Heather explore why your self-concept and your commitment go hand-in-hand, and how subtle mindset shifts can help you overcome imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and fear of failure. 

If you’re ready to ditch the safety net and bet on yourself, tune in for the tools and insights to make it happen.

What to Listen For:

• The link between commitment and self-concept in building your business.
• How holding on to a “Plan B” may be sabotaging your success.
• Six questions to uncover what’s really holding you back.
• How to step into the identity of a six-figure photographer.
• The surprising role of positive emotions in self-sabotage.
• Heather’s personal story of letting go to fully commit.
• How to avoid self-doubt and start believing in your potential.

If you’ve been struggling with self-doubt, fear of failure, or just feeling “stuck” in your photography business, this episode is your wake-up call. Remember: Your commitment to yourself and your goals is the key to creating the business of your dreams. Start by answering the six questions Heather shared today, and see how your mindset begins to shift.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode, and check out our resources below to take the next step toward your goals!

 🐾Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy - www.hairofthedogacademy.com

🐾Stop competing on price, sell without feeling pushy, and reach consistently $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula - www.freedomfocusformula.com

🐾Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate - www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate

🐾Discover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy - www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial

🐾Join the Progress Lab workshop - www.hairofthedogacademy.com/progress

Ready to Break Through What's Holding You Back in Your Photography Business? Join Coach Week here!

Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

JOIN THE PARTY:

• Connect with us on Instagram
• Explore valuable pet photography resources here
• Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers.
• Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that.
• Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

274 - You’ve heard it before: “People do business with those they know, like, and trust.” But Tracy Goodwin is here to flip that script. 

According to Tracy, trust isn’t enough anymore—it’s all about connection and authenticity. In this episode, we dive deep into how your voice shapes the client experience, influences their decisions, and can even increase your income by up to 90%! 

This is a must-listen for any photographer looking to overcome fear of rejection, feel confident in pricing conversations, and connect with clients on a deeper level.

What to Listen For

• Why trust is no longer enough to make a sale—and what clients are really looking for instead.
• How subconscious sound patterns in your voice are sabotaging your sales without you realizing it.
• The #1 question to ask yourself before every client interaction to align your energy and intentions.
• How to stop giving away your power to clients and take control of the conversation.
• The hidden “masks” we wear when we speak—like the People Pleaser or Perfectionist—and how they block connection with clients.
• The science behind how your voice can increase your impact and income by 30–90%.
• Why being “authentic” is easier said than done—and practical tips to let your real voice shine.
• How your childhood experiences can influence the way you use your voice today.
• A powerful mindset shift to overcome fear of rejection during inquiry and sales calls.

Your voice is your most powerful sales tool—and Tracy Goodwin just gave us the blueprint to use it with confidence and purpose. By removing the “masks” that block connection and learning to stand on the solid ground of your expertise, you’ll not only attract more clients but also create an experience they’ll never forget.

Ready to dive deeper? Be sure to grab Tracy’s free audio resource, Command Any Space, at www.captivatetheroom.com/command. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Freedom Focus Photography podcast for more insights to grow your photography business with intention and freedom!

Connect with Tracy

• Command Any Space - FREE AUDIO TRAINING
• Tracy’s Website
• Ep. 128 - The Secret to Converting More Leads with Tracy Goodwin 
• Tracy's Instagram
• Facebook

Nicole's Resources

• Hair of the Dog Academy 
• Freedom Focus Formula 
• Elevate

Ready to Break Through What's Holding You Back in Your Photography Business? Join Coach Week here!

Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

JOIN THE PARTY:

• Connect with us on Instagram
• Explore valuable pet photography resources here
• Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers.
• Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that.
• Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

273 - Are you ready to supercharge your photography business? 

This week, I’m chatting with Tanya Smith, a portrait photographer and educator who went from struggling with $600 shoots to building a system that generated almost $400K in just one year. 

We’re breaking down the most effective marketing strategies—think partnerships, in-person connections, and consistent follow-ups—that photographers can start using today. If you’re tired of the feast-or-famine cycle, this episode is a must-listen!

What to Listen For

• How Tanya went from $600/session to a $400K/year photography business
• The importance of in-person marketing in a digital world
• Why Instagram should only be the “icing” on your marketing cake
• Tanya’s proven strategy for creating profitable partnerships with local businesses
• How to build long-lasting relationships with clients and community partners
• The mindset shift you need to make to approach marketing with confidence
• Tanya’s advice for structuring your week to prioritize marketing and avoid burnout
• Why follow-up is the most overlooked (and valuable) part of your marketing

This episode with Tanya Smith was packed with actionable marketing strategies to help you build a thriving photography business. From creating meaningful partnerships to mastering the art of follow-up, Tanya’s advice will inspire you to take control of your client pipeline. Remember: marketing is the key to consistency, and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming!

If you loved today’s episode, make sure to check out Tanya’s Mastery Summit for Portrait Photographers happening on January 21, 2025. You can grab your free ticket at the link below.
 
Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast, share it with a friend, and let us know your biggest takeaway.

Important Links

• Sign up for Tanya’s Mastery Summit (FREE) - www.profitableportraits.com/summit
• Free Marketing Ideas for portrait photographers: https://www.profitableportraits.com/market
• Tanya's Education Website: https://www.profitableportraits.com
• Tanya's Store for Photographers: https://whoabella.ca
• Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy - www.hairofthedogacademy.com
• Stop competing on price and sell confidently with Freedom Focus Formula - www.freedomfocusformula.com
• Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate - www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate
• Learn commercial pet photography at the Commercia

Ready to Break Through What's Holding You Back in Your Photography Business? Join Coach Week here!

Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

JOIN THE PARTY:

• Connect with us on Instagram
• Explore valuable pet photography resources here
• Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers.
• Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that.
• Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

This episode originally aired on August 2024.
 
256 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, join me as we welcome back Kerry Jordan.  She bravely opens up about a major block that’s been affecting her work for decades - a feeling of being disingenuous selling luxury artwork to private clients and being particularly uncomfortable with the sales process around upselling products after the session.  

She knew that this was rooted in a belief of some kind - but after working with previous coaches, taking numerous classes, and trying what felt like everything - Heather Lahtinen gets to the heart of the issue in this 40 minute conversation. 

Do not miss this one.  This episode is packed with insights, breakthroughs, and actionable advice that could transform the way you approach your business.

What to listen for:

The Major Belief Shift: Kerry uncovered a 40-year-old belief about money and luxury that was holding her back from fully embracing her portrait photography business.

The "Outsider" Syndrome: Kerry realized she felt like an outsider when dealing with wealthy private clients, a feeling rooted in her childhood experiences with money.

Shifting from Discomfort to Empowerment: By acknowledging and understanding her discomfort, Kerry found a way to embrace it and transform her approach to sales.

Curiosity as a Tool: Kerry's commitment to curiosity allowed her to explore the deeper reasons behind her discomfort with selling to private clients, leading to significant breakthroughs.

The Importance of Alignment: The episode highlights how feeling aligned with your work can make all the difference in your business success.

Resources From This Episode:

• Kerry's website 
• Commercial Pet Photography Academy
• Elevate Coaching Program
• Hair of the Dog Academy 
• Freedom Focus Formula

Ready to Break Through What's Holding You Back in Your Photography Business? Join Coach Week here!

Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

JOIN THE PARTY:

• Connect with us on Instagram
• Explore valuable pet photography resources here
• Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers.
• Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that.
• Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

This episode originally aired on July 2024.

250 - Welcome to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast! 

In this special episode, we're kicking off a three-part series dedicated to one of the most exciting and requested topics: travel hacking. 

If you've ever dreamed of traveling for free or at a fraction of the cost, you're in the right place.

Today, we'll explore how to leverage credit card points to maximize your travel rewards, whether you’re aiming for luxurious trips or frequent getaways on a budget. 

Tune in to discover the strategies that can make your travel dreams a reality, and how we have an advantage since we are running a business as well!

Here's what you'll learn in this episode:

Introduction to Travel Hacking: Learn what travel hacking is and how it can help you travel for free or at a significantly reduced cost.

Choosing the Right Credit Cards: Tips on selecting the right credit cards based on your travel goals and spending habits.

Security Benefits of Credit Cards: Why credit cards are more secure than debit cards for travel and everyday use.

Annual Fees and Credit Scores: Discussion on whether annual fees are worth it and how opening new credit cards affects your credit score.

Credit Card Travel Insurance: Real-life examples of how credit card travel insurance can save you money and hassle during unexpected travel issues.

More episodes from this mini-series!

• Episode 2
• Episode 3

Resources From This Episode:

• Nicole’s Travel Resources 
• Hair of the Dog Academy 
• Elevate Coaching Program
• Freedom Focus Formula

Ready to Break Through What's Holding You Back in Your Photography Business? Join Coach Week here!

Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

JOIN THE PARTY:

• Connect with us on Instagram
• Explore valuable pet photography resources here
• Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers.
• Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that.
• Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.

This episode originally aired on March 2024.

Welcome to another episode of the Creative Freedom Rebellion - a podcast series within the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, hosted by Nicole Begley and J. Nichole Smith, AKA Nic.  

Through the past 10+ years of mentoring pet photographers, we’ve noticed that the “why” of many pet photographers falls into one of three buckets.  The love of art, the goal of lifestyle, or the love of dog. It’s important to dive into these differences because these motivations can shape not only your work but how you present it to the world.

Not a pet photographer?  Don’t pass this episode over as it will still be applicable as the first two buckets will be the same, but your love of dog would simply be the love of whatever your subject of choice is.  

What To Listen For:

1. Embracing the Creative Freedom Rebellion: How to carve out a pet photography path that's uniquely yours, defying conventional expectations.”
2. The Transformation of Pet Photography: Learn about the journey from a niche market to a competitive industry and what that means for today's photographers.
3. Finding Your Niche Within a Niche: Discover the importance of identifying your unique angle in pet photography, whether it's the art, lifestyle, or the animals themselves.
4. Tailored Marketing Strategies: Gain insights into effective marketing strategies that align with your specific focus in pet photography, ensuring you connect with your ideal clientele.
5. The Joy Factor: How prioritizing happiness can revolutionize your business approach and personal fulfillment.

We each created our business for different reasons, but one reason that is often universal was the goal of having more fulfillment and freedom in our lives.  To make money doing something we love.  This episode will open your eyes to the different roads that photographers choose to travel down and how when you know more about your motivation, you can make your business even more fulfilling.

Want the video version? Watch here. 

Resources from this Episode

• Creative Freedom Rebellion Part 1
• Connect with Nic
• Pouka Art And Photography
• The Artisan Hound
• Laura Wombwell Photography
• Greyboy Pet Prints
• Pawtraits by Nicole
• Keri Nakahashi Photography
• Kristen Murray Photography

Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Ple

Ready to Break Through What's Holding You Back in Your Photography Business? Join Coach Week here!

Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

JOIN THE PARTY:

• Connect with us on Instagram
• Explore valuable pet photography resources here
• Discover effective pricing and sales strategies for all portrait photographers.
• Ready to grow your business? Elevate helps you do just that.
• Check out our recommended gear and favorite books.