236 - This episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, hosted by Heather Lahtinen, delves into the "Offline Photographer Challenge" introduced in episode 219. The challenge is part of the Elevate program, designed to help photographers enhance their in-person marketing strategies by engaging with their local community. Heather invites Laura Wombwell to share her experiences and insights on expanding marketing efforts through building relationships with other photographers.

The conversation highlights the formation of the Southwestern Ontario Pet Photographer Group, initiated by Laura during the pandemic. This group aimed to create a supportive community where photographers could share referrals, resources, and knowledge. Laura discusses the benefits of this network, including client referrals, shared educational events, and a collective marketing reach that educates the community about pet photography.

What To Listen For:

• Community Over Competition: Discover how Laura's initiative to create a Southwestern Ontario Pet Photographer Group transformed the competitive landscape into a supportive community, promoting growth and collaboration among local photographers.
• The Referral Ecosystem: Unveil the power of referrals within a photographer network and how it can lead to mutual growth, better client matches, and an enriched photography community.
• Navigating Client Fit: Examine the strategy of referring clients to fellow photographers when they are not the best fit for you, ensuring client satisfaction and maintaining professional integrity.
• Setting Standards: Delve into the criteria for group membership, such as requiring business insurance and tax compliance, to maintain professionalism and trust within the community.
• Avoiding Negativity: Understand the group's approach to maintaining a positive and supportive environment, steering clear of client complaints and industry gossip to foster a healthy community dynamic.

The episode explores the importance of mindset, emphasizing community over competition, and the positive impacts of transparency, diversity, and professionalism within the photographer network. It encourages listeners to take on the challenge of networking with other photographers, not just for referrals and business growth but also for personal development and community building.

Connect with Heather

• Flourish Academy
• Flourish Academy on FB
• Flourish Academy on IG

Connect with Laura

• Laura Wombwell Photography 
• Laura Wombwell Photography on IG 
• Laura Wombwell Photography on FB

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.