285 - If the word “sales” makes you feel a little… icky, you’re not alone. Many photographers dread the sales process, fearing they’ll come off as pushy or make their clients uncomfortable. But here’s the thing—sales should be about service, not pressure. Tune in to learn how to confidently guide your clients through a seamless, enjoyable sales experience that results in higher sales and happier clients.
 
What to Listen For:

✔️Why the “let me think about it” objection happens—and how to prevent it
✔️ The #1 rule that ensures your clients are never shocked by your pricing
✔️ How to make the sales session a fun and stress-free experience for your clients

✔️ What to do when your brain panics over a big sale (hello, imposter syndrome!)
✔️ The difference between in-person sales (IPS) and online galleries—and which one actually makes you money
✔️ Why decision fatigue is killing your sales—and what to do about it
✔️ The exact structure for a seamless, high-converting sales session
✔️ How to confidently present pricing without second-guessing yourself
✔️ The best way to handle price objections without discounting your work

Sales don’t have to feel sleazy. When you approach them from a place of service, you’ll not only make more money, but you’ll create an incredible experience for your clients. Ready to transform your sales process? Tune in now and start closing those profitable sales with confidence!

Recommendations for sales software: 

Fundy: https://www.fundydesigner.com/

ProSelect: https://www.prostudiosoftware.com/

Swift Galleries: https://swiftgalleries.com/

More Resources:

Is your pricing setting you up for success? Find out how much you need to make per session to reach your revenue goals with this free calculator! Get it here: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/target

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

Stop competing on price and reach consistent $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

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

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.

284 - Ever send your pricing to a potential client only to hear... crickets? 😬 You’re not alone! 

Many photographers assume price is the problem, but more often, it's the way value is communicated. In this episode, we’re diving into how to stop clients from ghosting you and start booking more sessions with a strong website presence and an inquiry response that converts.

What to Listen For:

✔️ Why pricing isn't the real reason clients ghost you
 ✔️ The #1 thing you must have on your website to attract higher-paying clients
 ✔️ How to visually showcase your products and experience (not just your images)
 ✔️ Where to find high-end product mockups to elevate your website
 ✔️ The single most important question to ask every inquiry
 ✔️ Why responding with just a price list is a huge mistake
 ✔️ The best way to handle common objections before they even arise
 ✔️ How to personalize your inquiry response to increase bookings
 ✔️ How to use Video Ask to streamline your inquiry process
✔️ Why first impressions matter—and how to make yours count

Your website and inquiry process are the first steps in making clients excited to book with you—not just compare prices. By showcasing your products, personalizing your responses, and addressing objections before they come up, you’ll start turning more inquiries into actual bookings.

🎧 Listen now and make sure your inquiry process isn’t costing you clients!

Is your pricing setting you up for success? Find out how much you need to make per session to reach your revenue goals with this free calculator! Get it here: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/target

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

Stop competing on price and reach consistent $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

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.

283 - Do you ever feel like your competition is everywhere, and you’re just another photographer fighting for attention? We’ve all been there. 

In this episode, Vanessa Joy shares how she’s built a photography business that stands out, attracts high-paying clients, and actually brings her joy. We’re diving into marketing strategies that work (without spending all day on Instagram), how to recognize and avoid problem clients, and why niching down is everything.

What to Listen For:

• Why so many photographers struggle with pricing and how to fix it
• The difference between running a business and just being a photographer
• How to handle red flag clients without feeling guilty
• The biggest marketing mistake photographers make and how to fix it
• Why Instagram is not the magic solution to getting more clients
• The importance of relationships in your marketing strategy
• The power of charitable marketing and how to make it work for you
• How to break free from the cycle of overwork and undercharging
• Why niching down is more important than ever in 2024
• How to make strategic business decisions instead of just reacting

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your photography business—whether it’s marketing struggles, pricing fears, or dealing with difficult clients—this episode is a must-listen. Vanessa and I share our biggest lessons from years in the industry, so you can stop spinning your wheels and start growing the business of your dreams. Hit play, take notes, and let’s get to work!

Important Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• Master pet photography at Hair of the Dog Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com
• Break free from price competition & sell with confidence → www.freedomfocusformula.com
• Book more clients with Elevate → www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate
• Master commercial pet photography → www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial
• Follow Vanessa Joy on Instagram → @VanessaJoy
• Vanessa Joy's Website → https://vanessajoy.com/

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.

282 - If you think setting your prices is just a math problem, think again! While pricing formulas help ensure profitability, the real magic happens in how you structure and present your pricing. 

Today, we’re unpacking the art of pricing—how to design your pricing to nudge clients toward your most profitable options without ever feeling sales-y.

What to Listen For:

• The difference between the science of pricing and the art of pricing.
• Why pricing psychology is key to increasing your sales averages.
• How to structure pricing to move clients from "I should be responsible" to "I’m getting a great deal!”.
• Why high-end artwork options help sell your mid-range options (and why some clients go all in!).
• The psychology behind pricing digital files (and why they should always be priced higher than your session average).
• How to use a bonus schedule to encourage higher spending on artwork.
• Creative ways to include digital files in your pricing without capping your sales.
• Why small tweaks to your pricing structure can double or triple your average sale.

Your pricing isn’t just a list of numbers—it’s a tool that guides your clients to the best decision (for them and for your business!). By mastering the art of pricing, you’ll create an irresistible buying experience that feels natural, not pushy.

✨ Need help figuring out your ideal sales average? Download the Session Profit Planner at www.freedomfocusformula.com/target and use code PODCAST to grab it for free!

�� Subscribe to the show for more pricing strategies, business insights, and client psychology tips to help you grow a profitable, sustainable photography business!

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.

281 - Pricing your photography services shouldn’t feel like a guessing game! But if you’ve ever wondered why your bank account doesn’t reflect your hard work, it might be time to look at your cost of goods sold (COGS). In this episode, we’re breaking down what COGS really means for your photography business and how to price your products profitably—without the overwhelm.

What to Listen For:

• The real definition of cost of goods sold (COGS) and why it's not what you think.
• Why photographers often underestimate their true costs.
• How to calculate your COGS per session to ensure profitability.
• The industry standard percentage for COGS and why you should stay below it.
• The difference between general expenses and cost of goods sold.
• How home-based and retail studio pricing models compare.
• Why albums should be priced 10x their cost.
• The biggest mistake photographers make when pricing prints.
• How selling single prints and digital files can hurt your profit margins.
• The one thing you should do right now to check your pricing health.

Understanding your cost of goods sold is the key to running a profitable photography business—whether you’re part-time, full-time, or growing to the next level. Now, it’s time to put this into action!

💡 Ready to make pricing easier? Get access to the Session Profit Planner at freedomfocusformula.com/target and use the coupon code PODCAST for free access!

DM me on Instagram (@nicolebegleyofficial) and let me know your COGS and session profit goals!

Important Links:

• Session Profit Planner: freedomfocusformula.com/target (Use code PODCAST for free access!)
• Master pet photography at Hair of the Dog Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com
• Join Freedom Focus Formula and stop undercharging – www.freedomfocusformula.com
• Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate – www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate
• Learn commercial pet photography – www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial

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.

280 - Ever feel stuck in your photography business, wondering how some photographers are booking high-end clients while you’re grinding for low-paying gigs? 

In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, Nicole Begley kicks off a 10-part pricing series by unveiling the four levels of photography business growth. Learn how to move from budget-friendly shoots to luxe, high-end sales—without feeling salesy or pushy.

What to Listen For:

• The four levels of photography business growth: Swift, Stork, Eagle, and Peacock
• Why earning $2,000+ per client is the fastest path to a six-figure income
• How to avoid burnout from serving too many low-paying clients
• The key differences between selling photography and selling an experience
• Transitioning from digital-only packages to profitable product-based offerings
• The hotel analogy that makes pricing levels crystal clear
• Avoid staying too long at this level, which can stall your business growth
• The mindset shift required to confidently raise your prices
• What makes a $5,000 sale feel effortless for top-tier photographers

Where are you in your photography business journey? Are you still stuck offering low-cost digitals, or are you ready to soar into those $2,000+ average sales? No matter your level, this episode will help you map out your next steps. Want more guidance? Visit freedomfocusformula.com for resources that will help you grow your business with confidence and clarity. 🎯 Don’t forget to subscribe and catch the next episode of our 10-part pricing series!

IMPORTANT LINKS:

• Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy: hairofthedogacademy.com
• Reach consistent $2,000+ sales with Freedom Focus Formula: freedomfocusformula.com
• Book more clients with Elevate: freedomfocusformula.com/elevate
• Learn commercial pet photography: hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial

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.

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

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

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

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

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.