Hey Daydreamer! Today we are uncovering some secrets that big wedding photographers don't want you to know!

All of these secrets, I've gathered over the years from podcasts, books, workshops, in-person conversations, and from my own experience.

Here's a sneak peek at what you'll uncover:

- The art of engaging potential clients before you even meet.

- Service over sales: why focusing on the client's dream is your golden ticket.

- The transition from solo photographer to business owner.

- Crafting a portfolio that captivates your ideal client.

- Styled shoots as a way to flex your creativity.

🕰 Chapter Highlights:

- [0:00:56] They Don't Sell in a Sales Call (6 Minutes)

- [0:07:30] Better Gear Doesn't Equal Better Photos (2 Minutes) 

- [0:09:42] They Aren't Entrepreneurs, They're Business Owners (3 Minutes)

- [0:12:50] Lots of Their Photos Aren't from Real Weddings (3 Minutes)

🔑 Key Takeaways:

- Sales calls are just the tip of the iceberg. It's the myriad of 'yeses' that lead to the big 'yes'.

- Outsource to amplify your artistry and focus on what you do best.

- Your gear doesn't define your talent; your creativity does.

- Real growth comes from seizing opportunities, not waiting for them.

—

All Asher James' Details:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asherjames.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the monthly video membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.asherjames.co/dream-store⁠⁠⁠⁠

Say hi to Asher James on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@⁠⁠⁠⁠asherjames.co⁠⁠⁠⁠

YouTube Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/AsherJames⁠⁠⁠⁠

Leave a review on the Apple Podcast app or the Spotify app: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 

Spring is almost here, and I know that lots of us in the Northern Hemisphere are STRUGGLING with the woes of seazy d (seasonal depression) so today, let's have a little coffee shop date and chat all about how to attune into how we are feeling about the current creative climate out there.

I'm your host, Asher James, and I'm honored to share the latest episode of our podcast: "DAYDREAM or NIGHTMARE: The Art of Mindful "Content Creation."

In this chat, I'm not holding back about my own struggles with seasonal blues, the chaos of a jam-packed calendar, and the necessity of hitting pause to get back in touch with what really sparks our joy.

I'd love for you to join me as I chat about shifting from the daily grind to living the dream – a journey I bet many of you are on, too.

✨ Here's what we chat about:

- Resetting Goals: I talk about why we need to put the things that make us happy first, and how to handle the stress of a hectic life.

- Growing as a Person: I take a trip down memory lane, exploring how my love for photography started and how it's shaped my life, including setting up shop in downtown Duluth.

- Slow, Real Content: We dig into why it's crucial to create deep, meaningful content, shifting from quick-fix videos to storytelling that truly connects.

- Future YouTube Plans: I let you in on my plans for next year, including making cinematic YouTube videos and behind-the-scenes content that honors our creative sides.

🎧 Sneak Peek:

Get a little taste of my thoughts from the podcast and what I chat about in our latest soulful discussion. Whether it's about dealing with seasonal depression or the realization that we need to step back and appreciate what we've achieved, this episode is a gentle nudge to always stay true to you.

📣 Calling all Creators:

Sick of the current state of Instagram?! You are not alone! Join me on this creative journey as we shake up today's content creation scene. Let's promise to create stories that are true to us and help each other build a better online community and social media experience.

💻 And for all you visual learners out there, check out my recent video where I break down my wedding photography gear kit. It's a sneak peek of what's to come for our subscribers – more deep dives into the behind the scenes of my businesses!

So, get comfy and grab a coffee and as always, I encourage you to get involved, leave your thoughts, and share your stories. Let's keep inspiring and supporting each other in this creative community. -Asher

BOOK RECOMMENDATION:

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer

—

All Asher James' Details:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asherjames.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the monthly video membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.asherjames.co/dream-store⁠⁠⁠

Say hi to Asher James on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@⁠⁠⁠asherjames.co⁠⁠⁠

YouTube Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/AsherJames⁠⁠⁠

Leave a review on the Apple Podcast app or the Spotify app: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 

Hey Daydreamer, in this heartwarming episode, I sit down with the incredibly talented Annette, the visionary behind Season Journals, to delve into her captivating entrepreneurial journey. 

From her early days in web and graphic design to the magical creation of wedding stationery that speaks volumes of love and intention, Annette's story is the epitome of passion intertwined with opportunity.

💖 We laughed, we shared insights, and we discovered the profound impact that Season Journals has on couples during one of the most significant moments of their lives. 

Annette opens up about how her bespoke journals are more than mere planning aids; they're touchstones for couples to embed their values into the fabric of their relationship.

But wait, there's more! Annette gives us an exclusive sneak peek into the future of Season Journals, including the highly anticipated Season Pass vendor loyalty program and upcoming projects that promise to enrich life's most cherished milestones.

📚 Episode Highlights:

- Annette's multifaceted journey from graphic design to cherished journals

- The intentional creation of Season Journals for engaged and married couples

- The strategic significance of wedding client gifts

- An insider look at the Season Pass program for wedding vendors

- A special promo code for our listeners to get awesome client gifts

🔖 Chapters to Tune In For:

(0:00:05) - Entrepreneurial Journey and Business Growth

(0:14:08) - The Birth of Season Journals

(0:19:21) - Importance of Wedding Client Gifts

(0:28:08) - Vendor Loyalty Program and Product Discovery

(0:36:54) - Promo Code for Awesome Client Gifts

Season Journals is a women-owned brand that creates modern keepsake journals for life’s seasons. Season’s mission is to help people invest in their well-being, foster their relationships, and document their stories through journaling.

Their signature products, the Engagement Journal and Marriage Journal, help couples navigate, celebrate, and document their relationship together. Season Journals serves wedding industry professionals and their client gifting efforts through their vendor loyalty program, Season Pass.

Annette Furio is the owner and founder of Season Journals. She is an energetic entrepreneur who is passionate about people, design, well-being, and creativity.

She founded Season Journals in 2020 after writing, designing, and publishing their best-selling book, the Engagement Journal. She then continued to expand their collection by publishing the Marriage Journal and the forthcoming Pregnancy Journal.

As any entrepreneur does, Annette wears many hats in the business. She particularly enjoys product development and connecting one-on-one with her customers and wedding industry collaborators.

Annette enjoys exploring her neighborhood with her husband, running in the metroparks, tending to her ever-growing houseplant family, keeping up with two book clubs, and learning about wine.

INTERESTED IN CHECKING OUT SEASON JOURNALS FOR YOURSELF?!

Use the code "DAYDREAM" at checkout for 15% off your order!

Check out Season Journals⁠ here!

—

All Asher James' Details:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asherjames.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the monthly video membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.asherjames.co/dream-store⁠⁠

Say hi to Asher James on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@⁠⁠asherjames.co⁠⁠

YouTube Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/AsherJames⁠⁠

Leave a review on the Apple Podcast app or the Spotify app: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 

Have you ever found yourself daydreaming at your desk about a life filled with passion, purpose, and a touch of travel? Well, our latest podcast episode is the dose of inspiration you've been waiting for!

🎙️ Episode: "Capturing Love and Adventure: Erika's Enchanting Journey from Corporate Life to Nomadic Wedding Photography"

Join us as we get to sit down with Erika, a nomadic soul who swapped her hospitality career for a camera strap and a lifestyle so many just dream of.

She's living proof that when you chase what sets your heart on fire, the universe clicks into place.

📖 Here's a sneak peek at what's in store for you:

(00:30) Transitioning to Entrepreneurship

(05:04) Transitioning to Full-Time Wedding Photography

(10:40) Transitioning to Full-Time Photographer

(24:38) Building Genuine Connections in Business

(28:41) Transitioning to a Nomadic Business

(43:00) Building Your Photography Portfolio and Connections

🎧 Not only will you hear about the ups and downs of Erika's journey, but you'll also discover the vital role of community in her growth, both personally and professionally. Plus, if you've been contemplating a bold move in your own life, Erika's insights are pure gold.

💡 Episode Highlight: Erika talks about the moment she realized she was ready to pursue her passion full-time. "It was now or never," she says. "I sent that text to my manager... I had nothing but support."

Ready to be whisked away on an adventure that might just spark your own transformation? Tune in, grab your favorite earbuds, and let's dive into Erika's journey together!

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All Erika's Details:

—

All Asher James' Details:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asherjames.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the monthly video membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.asherjames.co/dream-store⁠⁠

Say hi to Asher James on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@⁠⁠asherjames.co⁠⁠

YouTube Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/AsherJames⁠⁠

Leave a review on the Apple Podcast app or the Spotify app: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hey Daydreamer ✨, today, we have a truly special episode lined up for you, packed with insights and strategies that will not only boost your online presence but also connect you with the clients you've been dreaming of! 

🌈 We get to sit down and chat with Paula, of Pin with Paula, a trailblazer who traded her corporate dread for the creative freedom of entrepreneurship.

With her expertise, we will dive deep into the world of Pinterest and blogging, exploring how these platforms can become your secret weapons in your marketing strategy. 

🚀 Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, this episode is designed to equip you with the tools you need to enhance your brand, attract your ideal clients, and transform your business using powerful online marketing techniques. 

📝 So grab your notepad, settle in, and get ready to be inspired as we uncover the art of attracting clients and amplifying your reach.

This is the episode you won't want to miss – let's transform your wedding photography biz together!

Here's a sneak peek of what you'll uncover:

🔑 Pinterest & Blogging Mastery: Paula spills the beans on why these platforms are the untapped resources you need for exponential growth.

📌 Pinning to Win: Discover the wizardry of Tailwind and other tools that'll make your Pinterest game unstoppable.

🌐 From Traffic to Bookings: Learn how a magnetic website and SEO-smart blog content can transform visitors into lifelong clients.

💡 Real Wins & Resources: Real-life success stories that prove the potency of a well-crafted Pinterest and blogging strategy.

⏰ (0:00:05) The underestimated power of Pinterest & blogging in the wedding industry

⏰ (0:15:45) Outsourcing Pinterest marketing to free up your creative energy

⏰ (0:24:34) Driving website traffic that converts with smart online tactics

⏰ (0:40:41) SEO strategies that get your photography blogs noticed

⏰ (0:46:17) Success stories & the future of marketing in photography

"Since Pinterest is a search engine, just pinning photos without any keywords in the titles or descriptions are not going to do you any good.

So I recommend doing keyword research, and it's actually more simple than people think.

Just like how you go on Google's search bar and see a drop down list of suggested topics, that's pretty much what happens on Pinterest.

You can go on a Pinterest search bar, pop in keywords that would describe your work... and it will come up with all the keywords possible that people are actually using, it's really helpful." - Paula

DOWNLOAD YOUR FREEBIE! - https://asherjames.co/education/p/pinterest-blogging-checklist-guide

— 

In the podcast we chatted about:

- Pinterest keyword search tool  https://www.pininspector.com

- Pinterest scheduling tool Tailwind - tailwind.sjv.io/eKgn4r (my affiliate link)

If you're not ready to outsource just yet, however, you want to start posting on Pinterest + blogging, Join Paula's free FB community where she shares trainings, and fun challenges for you to be able to run your Pinterest and blog confidently!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1026672765054863/

And if you'd like to connect with Paula, follow on IG: www.instagram.com/pinwithpaula

— 

All Asher James' Details:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asherjames.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the monthly video membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.asherjames.co/dream-store⁠⁠

Say hi to Asher James on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@⁠asherjames.co⁠⁠

YouTube Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/AsherJames⁠⁠

Leave a review on the Apple Podcast app or the Spotify app: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hey Daydreamer! 🎙️Today we are joined by Morgan Elizabeth Photo and we dive into the inspiring journey of a photographer who transformed their love for snapping high school sports into a career is shaping the wedding photography industry. 📈

🧡 Not only has Morgan made a leap into professional photography, but she’s also became a mentor and a leader in creating educational adventures for aspiring photographers. 🌅

In this episode, we explore:

🏔️ The thrilling combination of exploration and the craft of photography

👥 The sparks of collaboration and the selection of educators who bring zest to this unique workshop.

🚀 Strategies behind a successful workshop launch - selling out tickets in just 24 hours! 🎟️

🔍 The nitty-gritty of event planning, and the joyous aftermath of empowering fellow photographers.

🌲 Whether you're curious about the behind-the-scenes of photography workshops or you're dreaming of trailblazing your own path in photography, this episode is packed with valuable insights and heartfelt stories.

And for those itching to join the next big adventure, we have an exclusive invitation for you to be part of the waitlist for an unforgettable 2024 workshop! 🌟

Join the list here!

Tune in now and get ready to be inspired with Morgan!

—

All Morgan Elizabeth’s' Details:

Website: https://morganelizabethphoto.com/ 

Learn More From Morgan: https://morganelizabethphoto.com/education 

Say hi to Morgan on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@morganelizabethphotos

2024 North shore Workshop SOLD OUT: https://morganelizabethphoto.com/workshop 

Workshop Lineup: 

Evie Rupp: https://www.instagram.com/evierupp/

Stephanie Marie: https://www.instagram.com/stephmariephoto/ 

Ivan Amssan: https://www.instagram.com/ivanamssan/ 

— 

All Asher James' Details:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asherjames.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the monthly video membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.asherjames.co/dream-store⁠⁠

Say hi to Asher James on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@⁠asherjames.co⁠⁠

YouTube Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/AsherJames⁠⁠

Leave a review on the Apple Podcast app or the Spotify app: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Every so often, life throws a curveball that shifts our trajectory in unexpected ways.

Today, I am bringing you an episode from the Why Not? Podcast, hosted by my friend Linnea Turner.

She interviews me about being a multifaceted entrepreneur, and we dive into how my story is a testament to the transformative power of passion and the entrepreneurial spirit. I open up about my personal evolution from the structured world of academia to the dynamic realm of business ownership, sharing the gritty yet joyous realities along the way.

Here's a sneak peek at what you can expect:

🎓 My collegiate reflections and how my time at university influenced my creative and business ventures.

🔊 Listen in as we blend vulnerability and humor, sharing the pivotal moments that lead from employment to entrepreneurship, the service mindset that underpins my business philosophy, and the personal growth that entrepreneurship demands.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or simply someone seeking a dose of motivation, this episode promises to offer some valuable lessons and encouragement.

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All Asher James' Details:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asherjames.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the monthly video membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.asherjames.co/dream-store⁠

Say hi to Asher James on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@⁠asherjames.co⁠

YouTube Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/AsherJames⁠

Leave a review on the Apple Podcast app or the Spotify app: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

—

All Linnea Turner's Details:

Podcast: Why Not? Podcast

Say hi to Linnea on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@unbound_adventuring

Leave a review on the Apple Podcast app or the Spotify app: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hey daydreamers! 🌟

I'm beyond thrilled to be joined by Jennifer Moher on the latest episode of the Living Your Daydream Podcast! Today's show is sure to stir your creative spirits and challenge the way you view work-life harmony.

Jennifer is an award winning wedding photographer who has had her work featured in Junebug Weddings, Dancing With Her, Rangefinder, and so many more publications. At her core she is a storyteller that uses cinema to inform her approach to working with clients. She's also a coach, mentor, and educator, and host of the Wonderist podcast.

Jennifer is a mom, whose core values are family, nostalgia, movies, good conversation, and love. She's also a new friend, and I'm so incredibly honored to have some good conversation with Jennifer on the show.

Join us as we dive into the inspiring world of Jennifer Moher, a multifaceted artist, mother, and entrepreneur who embodies the essence of artistic living. 🖌️

🔊 Episode: "Jennifer Moher on Embracing Artistic Living & Work-Life Sway Amidst Motherhood and Entrepreneurship"

We'll talk about:

👩‍🎨 Living an artist's life with curiosity and wonder

👩‍👧 Balancing the roles of entrepreneurship and motherhood with a 'work-life sway'

🧘‍♀️ The transformative power of retreats and the fight against burnout

💡 Crafting authentic connections and content creation on Instagram

🌲 Drawing inspiration from nature to fuel our creative endeavors

And much more!

Whether you're a parent navigating the tides of business or an artist seeking authenticity in a digital world, this episode will resonate with you. Tune in to learn how Jennifer turns everyday moments into extraordinary experiences, and get ready to be inspired to do the same. 🌈

👂 Listen now and let Jennifer's story encourage you to find the extraordinary in your everyday. Don't forget to connect with her on Instagram for more artistic insights and adventures!

📣 Connect with Jennifer:

To continue the dialogue and delve deeper into Jennifer's world, be sure to connect with her on Instagram. Her feed is a vibrant personal art gallery waiting to inspire you.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifermoher/ 

Website: https://jennifermoher.com/ 

Courses: https://www.jennifermohereducation.com/ 

Retreats: https://www.alkemecollective.com/alkeme-retreat 

—------------

All Asher James' Details:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asherjames.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the monthly video membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.asherjames.co/dream-store⁠

Say hi to Asher James on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/asherjames.co

YouTube Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/AsherJames⁠

Leave a review on the Apple Podcast app or the Spotify app: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Are you feeling like you are on the hamster wheel of your creative pursuits? Well today on the Living Your Daydream Podcast, we unpack the complexities of burnout and navigate the path to genuine fulfillment. 

We'll embark on a journey through my own battles, from my early days of juggling wedding photography with college and a restaurant gig, and fast forwarding to facing the introspective challenges presented by the pandemic. 

This candid conversation serves as a beacon for anyone lost in the sea of their aspirations, illuminating the way toward aligning your passion with purpose, and transforming your dreaded burnout into a catalyst for personal and professional growth.

These experiences have shaped my understanding of what it means to truly live your daydream. 

We also explore the nuanced relationship between entrepreneurship and burnout, discussing how the valley of despair within the “Emotional Cycle of Change” can be the precise moment to reassess and pivot towards success. 

I share insights on managing time effectively, the significance of relaxation for productivity, and the concept of 'monk mode' — a focused, goal-oriented period that, when used sparingly, can prevent further burnout. 

This episode is an invitation to analyze your approach to work and life, identifying the critical actions that drive most of your results.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or a striving artist, this candid discussion is poised to equip you with the tools to not just survive but thrive in the face of burnout, reconnecting with your creative spark and steering your daydream into reality.

—------------

All Asher James' Details:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asherjames.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the monthly video membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.asherjames.co/dream-store⁠

Say hi to Asher James on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@⁠asherjames.co⁠

YouTube Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/AsherJames⁠

Leave a review on the Apple Podcast app or the Spotify app: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to planning the perfect styled shoot?

In today’s episode I get to sit down with Olivia Shaner Photography, Mariah McKechnie from Northland Special Events, and Alyssa Boytree from Superior Blooms, in a heart-to-heart exchange of what it took to bring this creative vision to life. 

We'll take you on our journey, from conception to execution, of a styled shoot in our studio here at Duluth Creative Co. in Downtown Duluth, MN. We candidly discuss the pervasive imposter syndrome and the threat of burnout.

We chat about how something as simple as a direct message can lead to the most unexpected and fruitful professional relationships, and why reaching out might just be the catalyst for your next big opportunity. 

Our conversation uncovers the essence of community over competition and the rewarding experiences that result from stepping out of your comfort zone and into the world of collaboration.

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Olivia Shaner Photography

Day Break Photography

Nicole Jean Hair & Makeup: Email: [email protected]

Hair: Absolutely Lox Salon

Florals: Superior Blooms

Decor: The Vault

Coordinator: Northland Special Events

Gown: Bella Rose Bridal: Email: [email protected] 

Studio: Duluth Creative Co.

Videography: Asher James Creative

Dessert: The Bake Shoppe: Email: [email protected] 

Stationary: Allison Hopperstad Photography

Models: Morgan & Bradyn Watson: Email: [email protected] 

My Coffee Beans Playlist on Apple Music

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All Asher James' Details:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://asherjames.co/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the monthly video membership: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.asherjames.co/dream-store⁠

Say hi to Asher James on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@⁠asherjames.co⁠

YouTube Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/AsherJames⁠

Leave a review on the Apple Podcast app or the Spotify app: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️