On this episode of The Profitable Photographer with Luci Dumas, I chat with Scott Wyden Kivowitz, a talented photographer, educator, and storyteller who has mastered the art of surprise proposal photography. As the Community Manager and podcast host at Imagen (an AI editing program), Scott balances his roles as a father of two, husband, photographer, and host of the “Workflows Photography Podcast”.

Scott’s journey into proposal photography began during the pandemic and has since become a passion, blending his love for storytelling with his commitment to delivering unforgettable client experiences.

Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:

• Scott’s secrets to capturing those high-stakes moments in proposal photography.

• Why preparation and having the right gear—like dual cameras—are crucial for success.

• How Scott balances photography with his role at Imagen, offering tools like personalized photo editing, culling, and cloud backup.

• Why he encourages photographers to embrace In-Person Sales (IPS) for higher profits and better client service.

• The importance of using a CRM for organizing workflows and staying efficient.

And since his passion is helping people master their workflow, we also discuss ways to create more time in our lives for both the business and our personal lives.

Scott’s ability to teach in a straightforward, easy-to-understand way shines throughout the episode, and he even shares tips on using Imagine, with an exclusive link for 1,500 free edits. Whether you're curious about proposal photography or looking to streamline your business, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice.

• Check his goodies out at https://imagen-ai.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/groups/imagenai
• https://www.instagram.com/imagen.ai/
• https://www.instagram.com/scottwyden

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: 

• Website 
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram 
• Facebook
• YouTube

Where in the world would you love to photograph clients and get paid really well for your photography including all your expenses? Paris? Costa Rica? New Zealand?

I loved my conversation with Denise Watrous who has built a wonderful business that includes traveling to amazing locations. She reveals so much about how you can do the same.

She is an award wining, Certified Professional Photographer from Waukesha, Wisconsin, Denise is a master of destination portraits, blending her passion for travel with her talent for creating vibrant, personalized portraits.

We dive into:

• The secrets behind her stunning destination portraits.

• How she tackles the challenges of on-location lighting and logistics.

• What it takes to price and plan travel-based photography sessions.

• Why senior portraits hold a special place in her heart (hint: it started with her kids!).

• The gear she swears by for on-location shoots.

Denise’s love for storytelling through portraiture and her adventurous spirit will inspire you to dream big and explore new horizons. Whether you’re ready to take your work global or just looking to up your on-location game, this episode is for you!

Connect with Denise:

• [email protected]
• @watrousphotography
• https://www.facebook.com/groups/155347079275408

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: 

• Website 
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram 
• Facebook
• YouTube

Hey there, fabulous podcast listeners. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Maria Arellano, a Fine Art Photographer based in Houston, Texas, who’s been creating magic since 2015. Maria has this incredible gift for helping women see themselves as the stunning, powerful goddesses they are—no matter their size, shape, or story.

In this episode, we’ll chat about:

• Why boudoir photography makes Maria’s heart sing (spoiler: it’s all about confidence and celebration!)

• How she creates a safe, empowering space for plus-size clients to shine

• The art (and hustle) of balancing two specialties like a total pro

• Maria’s genius strategies for building a loyal, raving community—from goddess-themed shoots to her unforgettable client prom nights 

Maria also dishes on why she doesn’t sell herself but chooses her clients—and trust me, it’s a game-changer.

Maria doesn’t just take photos; she crafts experiences. And get this—clients literally fly in from all over to work with her! Plus, she’s a mentor for other photographers, helping them find their own magic and build thriving businesses.

If you’ve ever doubted your beauty or wondered how to truly connect with your clients, this episode is your sign. Let’s go!

Connect with and check out Maria’s stunning work at…

• [email protected]
• Maribellaportraits.com
• GoddessbyMaribella.com

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: 

• Website 
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram 
• Facebook
• YouTube

Hey, it's Luci Dumas, and today’s solo episode is a little different because I am sort of “journaling” about my experiences around the topic and looking for my own answers as I explore a topic that’s been on my mind lately: motivation. Specifically, how we can find it, sustain it, and even question whether we always need it. Is it okay to just be sometimes? To live a simpler life without constantly striving for the next big thing? It's a big question, and one that I’ve been pondering deeply.

As I thought about motivation, I kept coming back to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. You might remember it from a psychology class—it’s that pyramid of five human needs. It got me wondering: can understanding these levels help us reignite our drive when it feels like the spark is fading?

In this episode, I break down each level of Maslow’s pyramid:

• The basics like food and shelter.

• Our need for safety and security.

• The desire for connection and belonging.

• Building self-esteem and feeling accomplished.

• And finally, the quest for self-actualization—living our best, most fulfilling life.

I’ll share some thoughts on how these needs might be influencing your motivation—or lack of it. Plus, we’ll tackle that ever-present voice saying, “I should be doing more,” and decide if it’s always true. Spoiler: sometimes it’s okay to give yourself grace.

Some of the ideas on how to become or stay motivated I explore are suggestions to

• Identify the Blockages: 

• Set Goals Aligned with Your Needs: 

• Reflect and Reassess: 

• Leverage Higher Levels for Inspiration

Tune in for a mix of self-reflection, practical tips, and maybe even a spark to get you motivated—or at least, to help you feel okay with where you are right now.

Be sure to check out www.lucidumascoaching.com and feel free to book a 20 minute chat

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: 

• Website 
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram 
• Facebook
• YouTube

In this episode of The Profitable Photographer, I’m thrilled to catch up with Kelly Warkentin, a lifestyle family photographer in Vancouver, Canada, mom of three, and one of my proudest coaching success stories. Kelly has not only built a thriving photography business but also created a work-life balance that lets her focus on her family and her clients.

When we started working together, Kelly was selling digital files for hundreds of dollars. Through my training program (and her hard work implementing the strategies), she discovered the power of selling heirloom art and albums in person, transforming her sales into thousands. Now, she’s adapted my system to develop her own Virtual IPS approach, helping busy photographers serve their clients with exceptional care while reclaiming their time.

Here’s what we cover:

• How Kelly transitioned from traditional sales to Virtual IPS to avoid burnout.
• Why personalized connection and service are game-changers in luxury photography.
• Outsourcing tips to lighten your load and grow your income.
• Simple yet effective strategies for balancing a successful business with family life.

Kelly’s story is a testament to the power of mentorship, innovation, and courage. Tune in for actionable insights and plenty of inspiration!

Reach out to and join her private group 

“Virtual IPS for portrait photographers on Facebook”

[email protected]

KellyWarkentin.com/chat 

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: 

• Website 
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram 
• Facebook
• YouTube

I’m so excited to welcome Linda Carroll to the podcast! Linda is a Certified Professional Photographer, Photographic Craftsman, and Portrait Artist who has been capturing beautiful moments and inspiring others for decades. Her studio in Kennesaw, Georgia, specializes in family and portrait photography, and her approach to “Capturing Life” has made her a beloved figure in the photography community.

Episode Summary:

 In this conversation, Linda and I explore how she’s kept her passion alive over the years, especially when creativity might need a little spark. She shares practical tips, her favorite resources, and the joy she finds in teaching others.

Episode Highlights:

• Keeping the Spark Alive – Linda recommends reading The Creative Mind and journaling as tools to nurture inspiration and creative energy.
• Photo Safaris & Exploration – Taking spontaneous drives and traveling to new places helps Linda see the world in new ways, fueling her passion for photography.
• The Power of Teaching – Sharing her knowledge with others, especially through her Santa season training and set design workshops, is a major source of joy and inspiration.
• Timeless Wisdom – Linda reminds us: it’s never too late to start something new or reignite our passion.

Closing:

A huge thank you to Linda for sharing her insights, passion, and experience with us! If you’re feeling inspired to connect, please reach out to her for mentorship or just to say hello. And as always, feel free to contact me for coaching, guidance, or any questions about your photography journey!

[email protected]

www.lclifephotos.com 

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: 

• Website 
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram 
• Facebook
• YouTube

In this episode, I share how to unlock your potential as a photographer by embracing an abundance mindset!

 If you’ve ever thought, "My clients won’t pay that" or "This just won’t work here," this one's for you. Join me as we explore practical ways to challenge and overcome limiting beliefs and create the business you truly want.

Some of my one-way conversation (from me to you) includes:

• Common beliefs that may hold photographers back from charging what they’re worth
• How to identify and connect with clients who value your work
• Strategies for photographers in smaller communities or niche markets
• Inspiring stories of photographers who broke through location or pricing barriers
• Why abundance is about focusing on what you want and staying open to new possibilities

I hope you take the time to explore your own conclusions or excuses and adopt “new

and improved” thoughts that will help you be more resourceful and positive about

how to make your dreams come true!

Luci

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: 

• Website 
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram 
• Facebook
• YouTube

In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to chat with Amy Posner, a true trailblazer in the world of online business and coaching. Amy has built six thriving businesses (five are still going strong!) and empowered thousands of freelancers to find their footing and flourish. She shares insights from her course, Complete Breakthrough Freelancer, and her experience as co-host of Business Badassery.

Find out why she says it’s not them, it’s you….what you are doing that is keeping you from achieving your dreams.

In our chat, we get into the good stuff:

• How to attract and keep ideal clients by building genuine relationships

• How to bring business skills up to the level of your creative ones (the real key to six figures and beyond!)

• Creating value for clients before they even see a price tag

• Seeing your clients as partners, so they know they’re in good hands

• Moving beyond a six-figure income as the ultimate goal to find what truly drives your success

Amy and I are “kindred spirits” and clicked instantly, and I couldn’t help but wish she lived closer so we could keep these conversations going!

Enjoy this conversation filled with so many tips for being super successful doing what you love

And reach out to her here to ask a question or learn about her course and podcast.

 [email protected] 

360-480-3079

https://amyposner.com/

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: 

• Website 
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram 
• Facebook
• YouTube

Hey, fans of The Profitable Photographer Podcast! I’m bringing back one of my all-time favorite episodes from 2021 because it’s just that good. If you missed it the first time or need a refresher, this is your chance to hear from Hart Tan, an incredible photographer and entrepreneur from Singapore. Hart is the mastermind behind Tomato, one of the largest photography studios in Singapore, and he’s running a high-volume, seven-figure business he started 12 years ago.

Hart is not only an award-winning Master Photographer, but he also shares such valuable insights on building a business that’s successful, sustainable, and truly your own. In our conversation, Hart goes beyond photography and dives into what it means to craft a career that works for you—one that brings both success and happiness.

Here’s what we talk about:

• Building your business like a house: The foundation is key, and it’s what gives you the freedom to grow.
• Curiosity is your best tool: Always stay curious about what works and what doesn’t.
• Marketing with intention: Test, measure, and adjust your strategies based on real results.
• Personal responsibility and problem-solving: Success is a combination of creativity and taking responsibility for your actions.
• Trust your gut: Not all advice fits. Learn to listen to your inner guidance.
• Systems are essential: Have a system in place to make everything run smoother.

Hart’s wisdom is timeless, so if you’re looking to build a thriving business and a fulfilling career, this episode is a must-listen. He’s got a wealth of knowledge, and I know you’ll love what he shares.

Want to connect with Hart? Check out his video on how much to charge: Watch Here.

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.tomato.sg
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/tomato.sg

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: 

• Website 
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram 
• Facebook
• YouTube

Here we go again...another great guest and conversation on The Profitable Photographer with Luci Dumas! I’m so excited to introduce you to Jen Hargrove, an award-winning fine art photographer specializing in character portraits, pets, children, and abstract waterscapes. With 12 years under her belt, Jen’s earned titles like Master Photographer and Certified Professional Photographer.

Jen share some eye opening practices that have helped her business success grow through print competitions, and she’s mastered the art of turning mini-sessions into high-profit opportunities. And guess what? These mini- sessions are primarily of men transformed into unique characters like soldiers, firemen, or sea captains. Wives and mothers love these!

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Keepsake Sessions: How Jen markets these unique sessions to her clients , turning them into characters like soldiers or sea captains. 
• Making Personal Art Pay: Jen’s strategy for selling her art through boutiques, Etsy, and galleries. 
• Delegating Sales: Why letting go of sales was the best move for her business. 
• Giving Back to Photographers: Jen’s passion for helping fellow photographers and why teaching others is important to her. 

Final thought is that our industry is not saturated. Don’t be afraid to teach others but stay in your lane. She wants to see everybody giving back to other photographers.

AND she has arranged a contest with Miller’s Color Lab.

WIN $150 wall art certificate by leaving a comment about this episode on the YouTube video of this episode and I will pick a winner!

https://jenhargrovephotography.com/ [email protected] 

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: 

• Website 
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram 
• Facebook
• YouTube