Today’s guest has been a working photographer for almost 20 years. She started out in weddings in the UK and switched to portraits when she moved to South Africa. Fast forward to today, she’s reworked her pricing structure to ensure her business is profitable with the 150 clients per year she shoots for, 80% of which are pet shoots. I’m talking about Emma O’Brien of Emma O’Brien Photographer.

I’m sure you’ll be impressed as me to learn that she doesn’t do any paid marketing but instead uses a strategic networking approach to ensure her calendar is full so if you’re looking for free marketing strategies, but sure to listen to the second half of this episode where we go into those in detail. 

What we covered:

• When and why Emma introduce pets
• Studying photography and is a diploma still necessary
• Why to stop looking at other photographers work
• How to avoid creating work that looks just like everyone else’s
• Using the move to South Africa from the UK to start fresh 
• Burn out

IN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODE

• Emma’s change in business model to make more money 
• Working with a coach
• How Emma worked out she needed to double her prices
• South African incomes
• How does the that affect your marketing
• Knowing your ideal client 
• What are business card drops and why do them
• Collaborations with other brands
• How many clients is Emma photographing per year, and what percentage are for pets
• Emma’ shelter work and the bonus marketing that comes from that