679: Melody MacDonald – How to Handle Difficult Photography Clients Without Losing Your Cool

679: Melody MacDonald – How to Handle Difficult Photography Clients Without Losing Your Cool

Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area [https://photobizx.com/pbx679-premium-melody-macdonald] Melody MacDonald of www.odymacphoto.com [http://www.odymacphoto.com] brings a background I don’t think I’ve ever featured on the podcast before. Before becoming a full-time photographer, she spent more than 20 years working as a 911 dispatcher. In that world, communication isn’t simply about being polite or saying the right thing. It’s about staying calm when someone else isn’t. Hearing what’s really being said underneath the emotion. Getting the right information, making clear decisions under pressure, and helping move someone towards a better outcome. And while photography may not involve life-or-death emergencies, difficult client conversations can still feel emotionally charged. * A frustrated email. * A disappointed parent. * An unhappy bride or groom. * A session that didn’t go as planned. * Or a client who comes in hot over something that may not feel like a true emergency to you, but absolutely does to them. That’s where Melody’s experience becomes so valuable. In this interview, she shares what photographers often get wrong when dealing with upset clients, why reacting too quickly can make things worse, and how to pause, listen and respond from a calmer, clearer place. Here's some more of what we covered in the interview: * Why Melody MacDonald’s 20+ years as a 911 dispatcher changed the way she communicates with photography clients * Why telling an upset client to “calm down” usually makes the situation worse * How clear, kind and direct communication can prevent many client complaints before they happen * Why photographers should pause before replying to an emotional email * How to recognise when you’re reacting from frustration rather than responding as a business owner * Why an unhappy client may simply be missing information rather than being unreasonable * How empathy and validation can defuse tension without admitting fault or giving away free products * Why photographers often try to solve client problems that don’t actually exist * When picking up the phone works better than continuing a difficult email exchange * How a phone call humanises both the photographer and the client * Why you don’t need to apologise, overexplain or make concessions in the moment * How stronger boundaries around business hours can reduce stress and resentment * Why difficult client situations often reveal weaknesses in your communication, contracts or sales process * How breathing, pausing and recognising physical signs of stress can help you stay calm under pressure * How Melody’s Unflappable Creatives community helps photographers work through difficult client conversations Melody MacDonald Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Melody-MacDonald-Photography-Podcast_2.jpg] WHAT’S ON OFFER FOR PREMIUM MEMBERS If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today [https://photobizx.com/try] and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews. > One of the first things I learned was never tell somebody to calm down. They’re having their worst moment, and telling them to calm down only makes them feel unheard. – Melody MacDonald You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find friendlier, more motivated, caring, and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all. > Recognising what your body is doing when you become frustrated is the first step towards responding differently. – Melody MacDonald In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, hold you accountable, and help you build friendships with other pro photographers who share your goals—to build a more successful photography business. Melody MacDonald Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Melody-MacDonald-Photography-Podcast_1.jpg]     WHAT IS YOUR BIG TAKEAWAY? Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Melody shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on today's episode. > The whole point is to pause before you respond. – Melody MacDonald If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Melody, or a way to thank her for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below. > You don’t have to make promises or concessions in the moment. You can thank them, hear them and give yourself time to respond properly. – Melody MacDonald Melody MacDonald Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Melody-MacDonald-Photography-Podcast_6.jpg]     ITUNES REVIEWS AND SHOUT-OUTS I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show. > A phone call can resolve in minutes what you might spend days worrying about over email. – Melody MacDonald If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes [https://photobizx.com/itunes] or https://photobizx.com/google [https://photobizx.com/google]. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast [https://itunes.apple.com/au/podcast/photography-xperiment-podcast/id1116983755]. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them. > We often start trying to solve a problem that doesn’t actually exist. – Melody MacDonald Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business. Here is the latest review… ★★★★★ Practical, Actionable Advice for Growing Your Photography Business Via Apple Podcasts by Arngdiva, in the USA on July 23rd, 2026. I’ve been listening to PhotoBizX for a while, and episode 678 on creating a custom. ChatGPT was excellent! Andrew asked great questions and clearly explained in the interview how to train ChatGPT to better understand your photography business. (I appreciated the beginner-level details for people who aren’t familiar with it!) What I appreciate most is how much valuable, actionable content Andrew shares before asking listeners to join his private community. Every episode leaves listeners with ideas they can actually implement. If you’re a photographer, looking to grow your business, streamline, your work clothes, or learn from experience professionals, PhotoBizX is absolutely worth listening to. Melody MacDonald Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Melody-MacDonald-Photography-Podcast_4.jpg] LINKS TO PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Melody MacDonald Website [https://odymacphoto.com/] Unflappable Creatives Facebook Groups [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2469417433531236/] Melody MacDonald on Pinterest [https://au.pinterest.com/odymacphoto/] Melody MacDonald on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/odymacphoto/] > Sometimes clients aren’t asking for a solution. They simply need to feel heard and validated. – Melody MacDonald Melody MacDonald Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Melody-MacDonald-Photography-Podcast_7.jpg] THANK YOU! Huge thanks to Melody for sharing so openly in this interview. What really stood out for me was how often difficult client situations become worse because we react too quickly, assume the worst, or try to solve a problem that may not even exist. Melody’s background as a 911 dispatcher brings a completely different perspective to client communication: pause, listen for what is really being said, and respond from a calm, clear place. I’d love to know what stood out for you. > It’s often not about the client being wrong. They may simply be missing information. – Melody MacDonald That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business! Thanks for listening—speak soon, Andrew Melody MacDonald Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Melody-MacDonald-Photography-Podcast_3.jpg] The post 679: Melody MacDonald – How to Handle Difficult Photography Clients Without Losing Your Cool [https://photobizx.com/melody-macdonald-how-to-handle-difficult-photography-clients-without-losing-your-cool] appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business [https://photobizx.com].

678: Marcin Rafalowicz – How to Build a Custom ChatGPT for Your Photography Business

Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area [https://photobizx.com/pbx678-Premium-Marcin-Rafalowicz] Marcin Rafalowicz of Pro Image Academy [https://proimageacademy.com/ai] has been shooting for 17 years, mainly as a side gig. Although when that side business has taken you to New York Fashion Week, destination weddings, local television, The Guardian, Cosmo and plenty of unexpected places, it’s fair to say it became much more than a weekend hobby. Now, at 50, Marcin is shifting more of his focus to helping photographers improve the business side of their work. His work centres around branding, automation and custom AI — three areas he believes can help photographers market themselves more clearly, work more efficiently and avoid years of trial and error. In this interview, Marcin shares what he learned over 17 years in photography, why it took him nine years to properly dial in his own business, and how photographers can build a custom ChatGPT trained on their voice, brand, clients, pricing and services. The aim isn’t to create more generic AI content. It’s to build a tool that actually understands your photography business and sounds more like you. Here's some more of what we covered in the interview: * Why Marcin believes most photographers are barely scratching the surface of AI. * How to train ChatGPT on your voice, tone, language and personality. * Why your business information matters just as much as your writing style. * How custom GPTs produce more relevant content than generic ChatGPT prompts. * Why poor input leads to bland, predictable marketing. * How to build separate custom GPTs for content, pricing, marketing and other business tasks. * How AI can generate buyer personas, content ideas, social posts and video scripts. * Why refining your custom GPT over time makes the output more accurate. * How voice-powered AI and website chatbots could change client enquiries. * Why photographers who experiment with AI now will be better prepared for what comes next. Marcin Rafalowicz Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Marcin-Rafalowicz-Photography-Podcast_1.jpg] WHAT’S ON OFFER FOR PREMIUM MEMBERS If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today [https://photobizx.com/try] and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews. > What I try to do with my clients now is set prices that should repel them — and they still don’t budge. They keep booking. – Marcin Rafalowicz You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find friendlier, more motivated, caring, and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all. > The more you use AI, the friendlier it becomes. The difficult part is simply getting started and stepping outside your comfort zone. – Marcin Rafalowicz In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, hold you accountable, and help you build friendships with other pro photographers who share your goals—to build a more successful photography business. Marcin Rafalowicz Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Marcin-Rafalowicz-Photography-Podcast_3.jpg]   WHAT IS YOUR BIG TAKEAWAY? Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Marcin shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on today's episode. > The photographers who adapt, experiment and stay open to new ideas will be in a much stronger position than those who keep doing things the same old way. – Marcin Rafalowicz If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Marcin, or a way to thank her for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below. > First, ChatGPT needs to understand how you sound. Then it needs to understand what your business is about. When you combine those two things, you open a completely different door. – Marcin Rafalowicz Marcin Rafalowicz Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Marcin-Rafalowicz-Photography-Podcast_5.jpg]   ITUNES REVIEWS AND SHOUT-OUTS I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show. > A custom ChatGPT doesn’t just know what you sound like. It understands your services, pricing, values, ideal clients and the people you don’t want to work with. – Marcin Rafalowicz If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes [https://photobizx.com/itunes] or https://photobizx.com/google [https://photobizx.com/google]. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast [https://itunes.apple.com/au/podcast/photography-xperiment-podcast/id1116983755]. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them. > AI won’t necessarily eliminate photography jobs. It will create a shift, where some opportunities disappear and entirely new ones grow somewhere else. – Marcin Rafalowicz Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business. Marcin Rafalowicz Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Marcin-Rafalowicz-Photography-Podcast_2.jpg] LINKS TO PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Pro Image Academy [https://proimageacademy.com/ai] Marcin Rafalowicz on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@proimageacademy] Marcin Rafalowicz on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/palmcityclickfirm/] Marcin Rafalowicz on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/imageproacademy/] > The problem with generic ChatGPT is that it creates the same posts for everybody. There’s no context, no personality and no real connection to the business. – Marcin Rafalowicz Marcin Rafalowicz Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Marcin-Rafalowicz-Photography-Podcast_8.jpg] THANK YOU! Huge thanks to Marcin for sharing so much in this interview. What really stood out was how much better ChatGPT can become when you train it properly — not just on how you write, but on your business, your clients, your pricing and the work you want to be known for. Instead of getting the same generic content as every other photographer, you can build a custom GPT that actually understands your brand and starts to sound like you. I’d love to know what stood out for you. > Once you see a tool speaking in your voice, using your ideas and understanding your business, it becomes difficult not to see more ways you could use it. – Marcin Rafalowicz That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business! Thanks for listening—speak soon, Andrew Marcin Rafalowicz Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Marcin-Rafalowicz-Photography-Podcast_7.jpg] The post 678: Marcin Rafalowicz – How to Build a Custom ChatGPT for Your Photography Business [https://photobizx.com/marcin-rafalowicz-how-to-build-a-custom-chatgpt-for-your-photography-business] appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business [https://photobizx.com].

677: Mycah Bain – Building a Team, Buying Back Your Time and Growing to $340K

Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area [https://photobizx.com/pbx677-Premium-Mycah-Bain] Mycah Bain of www.mycahbain.com [https://mycahbain.com/] is a photographer who's built something a lot of photographers talk about… but very few actually achieve. A photography business that doesn't rely on them doing everything. Over the past 15 years, she's built a studio in Minneapolis that includes weddings, seniors, branding, a team of photographers, streamlined systems and multiple revenue streams. Last year, the business generated around $340,000 in revenue, split almost evenly across brand photography, weddings and portrait photography. What really caught my attention is this… I don't think Mycah is trapped inside the business she's built. She openly shares how she's outsourced key roles, built a leadership team, created a premium client experience and structured the business so she can step away for weeks at a time without everything grinding to a halt. In this interview, Mycah shares how to build a team, buy back your time and grow a hugely profitable, successful photography business. Here's some more of what we covered in the interview: * Why Mycah believes photographers don't have to niche down to build a thriving photography business * How generating over $340,000 across weddings, branding and portraits proves multiple revenue streams can work together * Why Mycah's $1 million goal isn't about money — it's about freedom, opportunity and impact * How focusing on profit instead of revenue helped Mycah build wealth and long-term financial security * Why your relationship with money could be limiting the growth of your photography business * How Mycah rebuilt her business from scratch after divorce and reached six figures in her first year * How hiring virtual assistants in the Philippines helped Mycah scale while protecting her time and client experience * Mycah's hiring process for finding exceptional team members — and avoiding costly mistakes * Why technical skills aren't enough when hiring photographers to represent your brand * How clear expectations, systems and documented processes create a premium client experience at scale * Why creating a business that runs without you is the real path to freedom * How Mycah built a photography business that allows her to travel for weeks without everything grinding to a halt * Why “I don't expect perfection, but I do expect excellence” has become Mycah's leadership philosophy Mycah Bain Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Mycah-Bain-Photography-Podcast_4.jpg] WHAT’S ON OFFER FOR PREMIUM MEMBERS If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today [https://photobizx.com/try] and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews. > What gets me motivated is being able to provide jobs and opportunities for women, expand an incredible photography experience for more people, and continue building freedom and flexibility for myself. – Mycah Bain You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find friendlier, more motivated, caring, and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all. > I don't expect perfection, but I do expect excellence. – Mycah Bain In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, hold you accountable, and help you build friendships with other pro photographers who share your goals—to build a more successful photography business. Mycah Bain Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Mycah-Bain-Photography-Podcast_1.jpg]   WHAT IS YOUR BIG TAKEAWAY? Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Mycah shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on today's episode. > Most photographers love taking photos. That's why they started. Once I realised my team could deliver the same experience, I thought, maybe I'm onto something here. – Mycah Bain If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Mycah, or a way to thank her for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below. > I'm really against making the same mistake twice. Anytime something goes wrong, I ask: What happened? How did it happen? And how do we make sure it never happens again? – Mycah Bain Mycah Bain Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Mycah-Bain-Photography-Podcast_6.jpg]   ITUNES REVIEWS AND SHOUT-OUTS I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show. > Beautiful photos are the point, but an incredible client experience is what matters most. I want people to feel completely supported, seen and taken care of every step of the way. – Mycah Bain If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes [https://photobizx.com/itunes] or https://photobizx.com/google [https://photobizx.com/google]. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast [https://itunes.apple.com/au/podcast/photography-xperiment-podcast/id1116983755]. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them. > I realised, for my own mental health, I couldn't be on social media… I called a friend, crying, and said, “Here's my Instagram password. Just do something until I'm ready to come back.” – Mycah Bain Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business. Mycah Bain Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Mycah-Bain-Photography-Podcast_2.jpg] LINKS TO PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Mycah Bain Website [https://mycahbain.com/] Mycah Bain on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/mycahbainphoto/] Mycah Bain Photography on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/p/Mycah-Bain-Photography-61551994733315/] Mycah Bain Education [https://mycahbain.com/edu] Permission Slip to More Freedom Guide [https://mycahbain.com/money] Online Jobs PH [https://www.onlinejobs.ph] Upwork [https://www.upwork.com/] FREE Guide to more money with your photography business [https://mycahbain.com/money] > If you're good at making money, but you don't know how to think about it or manage it, you've only solved part of the puzzle. – Mycah Bain Mycah Bain Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Mycah-Bain-Photography-Podcast_3.jpg] THANK YOU! Huge thanks to Mycah for sharing so openly in this interview. What stood out to me is how quickly she can rebuild momentum in a brand-new place — not by waiting for years of local trust, but by getting involved, meeting people, building relationships, and showing the kind of work she wants to be known for. I also loved hearing how she thinks bigger than many portrait photographers, from everyday networking conversations to booking a French castle and turning a bold idea into a paid photography experience. I’d love to know what stood out for you. > I was taking client calls on public buses in Costa Rica, in a hostel in Nicaragua and in little cafés… I was booking almost every project, and it was going better than when I was sitting at my desk. – Mycah Bain That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business! Thanks for listening—speak soon, Andrew Mycah Bain Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Mycah-Bain-Photography-Podcast_7.jpg]   The post 677: Mycah Bain – Building a Team, Buying Back Your Time and Growing to $340K [https://photobizx.com/mycah-bain-building-a-team-buying-back-your-time-and-growing-to-340k] appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business [https://photobizx.com].

676: Joanna Kilgore – How to Build a Photography Business Anywhere

Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area [https://photobizx.com/pbx676-Premium-Joanna-Kilgore] Joanna Kilgore of www.joannaleekilgore.com [http://www.joannaleekilgore.com] is a portrait photographer who’s done something most photographers would find terrifying… She’s rebuilt her business from scratch in completely new locations, more than once, and become known fast. Instead of relying on years of local history, an established client base, or a big advertising budget, Joanna has learned how to embed herself into a new community, build trust quickly, and position herself as the go-to photographer in her area. She’s also not afraid to think bigger than the average portrait photographer. From luxury portrait experiences to destination sessions in French castles, Joanna has a knack for combining creativity, bold ideas and commercial thinking in a way that actually works. Add to that the fact she’s navigating business, family, creativity and big future plans while living with ADHD. Currently based in Florida, Joanna Kilgore of Jolee Art & Photography shares how she builds momentum in a new market, uses networking to create opportunities, turns big ideas into booked experiences, and continues to grow a photography business that can move with her. Here's some more of what we covered in the interview: * Why Joanna believes you can rebuild a successful photography business almost anywhere — even without an existing client base * How Joanna became known fast after moving to new towns and starting again from scratch * Why organic Facebook posts worked in one market but completely failed in another * How networking became Joanna’s fastest path to trust, referrals and paid photography clients * Why everyday conversations in shops, cafés and local businesses can lead to unexpected bookings * How Joanna adapts her marketing and sales approach to suit the culture of each new location * Why showing the work you want to sell helps attract the clients and sessions you want more of * How Joanna uses luxury portraits, destination shoots and big creative ideas to stand out in a crowded market * Why she booked a French castle before every room was sold — and how she turned the idea into a paid experience * How Joanna balances digital files, prints and products without forcing every client through the same sales process * Why customising sessions around the client’s vision can reduce anxiety and increase satisfaction * How Joanna uses speed, service and flexibility as part of her photography business advantage * Why being open about your values can attract the right clients without turning it into a sales tactic * How Joanna manages ADHD while running a business, raising a family and constantly launching new ideas * Why photographers with ADHD can turn curiosity, creativity and big-picture thinking into a competitive advantage * How calculated risks, community connection, and constant reinvention continue to shape Joanna’s business growth Joanna Kilgore Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Joanna-Kilgore-Photography-Podcast_2.jpg] WHAT’S ON OFFER FOR PREMIUM MEMBERS If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today [https://photobizx.com/try] and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews. > You don’t always get to choose where you’re planted, but you can still bloom and blossom there. – Joanna Kilgore You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find more friendly, motivated, caring and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all. > I don’t say, “I can’t do that.” I say yes, then I figure out a way to make it happen. – Joanna Kilgore In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, hold you accountable, and help you build friendships with other pro photographers who share your goals—to build a more successful photography business. Joanna Kilgore Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Joanna-Kilgore-Photography-Podcast_7.jpg]   WHAT IS YOUR BIG TAKEAWAY? Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Joanna shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on today's episode. > Once you know how to talk to people you don’t know, make friends and explain who you are in a way that makes them want to know more, you can do it anywhere. – Joanna Kilgore If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Joanna, or a way to thank her for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below. > You are capable of anything you think you are. – Joanna Kilgore Joanna Kilgore Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Joanna-Kilgore-Photography-Podcast_04.jpg]     ITUNES REVIEWS AND SHOUT-OUTS I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show. > I have dreams, ambitions and targets, but I don’t want to cap what’s possible. I stay adaptable and pivot when I need to. – Joanna Kilgore If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes [https://photobizx.com/itunes] or https://photobizx.com/google [https://photobizx.com/google]. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast [https://itunes.apple.com/au/podcast/photography-xperiment-podcast/id1116983755]. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them. > If you’re willing to talk to people and show genuine interest, clients can come from anywhere — even a thrift store. – Joanna Kilgore Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business. Here is the latest review… ★★★★★ One word – brilliant! Via Google Reviews by Canberra pet photographer [https://moistnosepetphotography.com/], Alistair Nitz on July 2nd, 2026 from Australia. I have been a listener to both the free podcast and the premium service for over three years. One word – brilliant. As a relatively new photography business owner, I am always on the lookout for new strategies and business ideas. This makes the weekly episodes of PhotobizX the activity that tracks highly on my must-do tasks for the week. It explores topics across all photography genres and consistently delivers practical business ideas, actionable suggestions, and solutions to help you grow your business. Andrew is an incredibly personable host who has a knack for asking those inquisitive questions that all photographers actually want to know. If you subscribe to just one photography business podcast, make it PhotobizX. Joanna Kilgore Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Joanna-Kilgore-Photography-Podcast_05.jpg] LINKS TO PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Joanna Kilgore Website [https://www.joannaleekilgore.com/] Joanna Kilgore on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/joannaleeportraits] Jolee Art & Photography on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/JoleeShotMe/] > Starting over from scratch is hard and scary, but I would rather get to know a new community, grow and thrive. – Joanna Kilgore Joanna Kilgore Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Joanna-Kilgore-Photography-Podcast_02.jpg] THANK YOU! Huge thanks to Joanna for sharing so openly in this interview. What stood out to me is how quickly she can rebuild momentum in a brand-new place — not by waiting for years of local trust, but by getting involved, meeting people, building relationships, and showing the kind of work she wants to be known for. I also loved hearing how she thinks bigger than many portrait photographers, from everyday networking conversations to booking a French castle and turning a bold idea into a paid photography experience. I’d love to know what stood out for you. > My specialty has always been taking normal people and making them feel exquisitely beautiful. – Joanna Kilgore That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business! Thanks for listening—speak soon, Andrew The post 676: Joanna Kilgore – How to Build a Photography Business Anywhere [https://photobizx.com/joanna-kilgore-how-to-build-a-photography-business-anywhere] appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business [https://photobizx.com].

675: Kim Jongen – Turning Viral Dog Photos Into Wall Art, Stock Sales and Coaching

Premium Members, click here to access this interview in the premium area [https://photobizx.com/pbx675-premium-Kim-Jongen] Kim Jongen of www.motherpuppers.nl [https://en.motherpuppers.nl/] first appeared on the podcast in episode 570 [https://photobizx.com/kim-jongen-the-power-of-unique-branding-and-original-marketing-ideas] two years ago. Back then, she was only a couple of years into business, getting media attention and quickly becoming known as that cool dog photographer in the Netherlands. Today, she’s widely known as Holland’s favourite studio dog photographer. She was booked out, standing out and riding the wave of a bold, colourful style the market hadn’t really seen before. But getting attention is one thing. Turning that attention into a business that works, pays well and doesn’t chew up every waking hour… is something else entirely. Since we last spoke, Kim has had to face what most successful photographers eventually run into — too many enquiries, long working days, pricing fears, copycats, outsourcing struggles and the pressure of keeping up with demand without burning out. So, what’s changed since then? How has the business evolved? And how do you go from being known for viral, colourful dog portraits to building something more sustainable, profitable and enjoyable? In this interview, Kim shares how she has reduced her workload, raised her prices, sold more wall art, added stock image sales, started coaching other photographers and moved into a professional studio that finally feels like the right home for Mother Puppers Studio. Here's some more of what we covered in the interview: * Why photographing fewer clients helped Kim build a calmer, more sustainable photography business * How she maintained her income by raising prices, selling more wall art and adding coaching calls * Why pricing fear held her back — and what changed when she finally raised her wall art prices * How serious, wall-worthy portraits became just as important as her funny, colourful dog photos * Why Kim stopped worrying about copycat photographers and focused on protecting her own headspace * How outsourcing editing helped her reclaim time, even while still struggling to let go completely * Why showing wall art during the shoot helped clients see, touch and understand what they could buy * How Google Ads, local media and word-of-mouth keep bringing in dog photography clients * Why clients now travel from across Europe to be photographed at Mother Puppers Studio * How mini sessions create cash flow, attract new clients and sometimes lead to full-session bookings * How commercial licensing and stock image sales created income from photos she had already taken * Why coaching and online education are becoming part of Kim’s future business model Kim Jongen Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Kim-Jongen-Photography-Podcast_4.jpg] WHAT’S ON OFFER FOR PREMIUM MEMBERS If you’re on the fence about becoming a premium member, join with the $1 trial today [https://photobizx.com/try] and get access to the FULL interviews each week, a fantastic back catalogue of interviews, and have ALL future interviews delivered automatically to your phone or tablet. Plus, special member-only interviews. > I was always scared that if I put up my prices, clients wouldn’t buy anything anymore. But that’s just mindset. If people want something really nice, the right people will understand that and they will buy it. – Kim Jongen You'll also receive access to the members-only Secret Facebook Group, where you can connect with other Premium Members and interview guests to help, support and motivate you to take ideas you hear in each episode and put them into action. The group also has FB live video tutorials, role-play, and special live interviews. You will not find more friendly, motivated, caring and sharing photographers online. Seriously, that's not all. > When companies want to use my photos, I first ask what they want to use them for. Personal use and commercial use are completely different. – Kim Jongen In addition to everything above, you'll get access to instructions on forming or joining a MasterMind Group with other premium members. These groups are super motivating, hold you accountable, and help you build friendships with other pro photographers who share your goals—to build a more successful photography business. Kim Jongen Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Kim-Jongen-Photography-Podcast_1.jpg]   WHAT IS YOUR BIG TAKEAWAY? Following this interview, I’d love to know if you're taking anything from what Kim shared. Is there something you heard that excited or motivated you to the point where you thought, yeah, I'm going to do that! If so, leave your thoughts in the comments below; let me know your takeaways and what you plan to implement in your business based on today's episode. > Most clients choose one crazy colour and one natural colour. The crazy one is fun, but the natural one is often what they want on the wall. – Kim Jongen If you have any questions I missed, a specific question you’d like to ask Kim, or a way to thank her for coming on the show, feel free to add them in the comments area below. > When people copied my work, it used to make me insecure. Now I know I’ve built my brand and my name, so I block it, stop seeing it and move on. – Kim Jongen [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Special-.jpg] PHOTOBIZX PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP HOLIDAY SPECIAL — FINISHES THIS WEEK! It’s rare to see a special price for the PhotoBizX Premium Membership, but one is available now through Tuesday, June 30th, 2026. Why the special? Because it’s holiday time — I’m in Spain and heading to France soon — and it feels like a good excuse to do something a little different. The 12-Month Premium Membership is normally $200… NOW $120. That’s half the price of paying monthly for the year. Join here: https://photobizx.com/holidayspecial [https://photobizx.com/holidayspecial] This is the lowest price you’ll ever find for a 12-month PhotoBizX Premium Membership. And this year, there’s an extra bonus. I’ll also be adding a series of photography business courses to the 12-month Premium Membership, giving annual members access to even more training, resources and support inside PhotoBizX, including: * Photography Pricing Masterclass * Build a Photography Website that WORKS! * Boost Your Website’s UX and SEO * AI Marketing for Photographers * The Facebook Ad Promo Course * Lead Ads Training for Photographers * Facebook Competitions for Photographers * LinkedIn for Photographers * Qualify Your Leads Like a Pro * Sell Your Photography Like a Pro * Sales Success Course * The Model Framework for Photographers * Beyond SEO * Unlocking Joy & Fun in Your Business SPECIAL BONUS FOR EXISTING MONTHLY MEMBERS If you’re currently paying monthly and want to upgrade to the 12-month Premium Membership, you’ll not only save half of what you’re currently paying over the year… I’ll also refund your most recent $20 monthly payment. To process the refund, please email me your PayPal email address, which may be different from your regular email address. Make sure you join the 12-month membership first, then cancel your existing monthly payments. This way, your Premium RSS Feed URL stays the same. NOTE: If you are already on the special annual price from last year, there is no need for you to take any action. Your existing membership will automatically renew at the special price. And you will get access to the courses being added too. Kim Jongen Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Kim-Jongen-Photography-Podcast_2.jpg]   ITUNES REVIEWS AND SHOUT-OUTS I check for any new iTunes or Google reviews each week, and it's always a buzz to receive these… for several reasons. Firstly, it's confirmation that I'm on the right track with the interviews and that they are helping you improve your photography business. That's awesome! Secondly, iTunes and Google are the most significant podcast search engines, and your reviews and ratings help other photographers find PhotoBizX. More listeners mean more interviews and, ultimately, a better show. > Some clients drive from Spain, England, Poland and Austria for a dog photography session. I always thought I’d have to travel to them, but now they travel to me. – Kim Jongen If you have left a review in the past, thank you! If you haven't and you'd like to, head to https://photobizx.com/itunes [https://photobizx.com/itunes] or https://photobizx.com/google [https://photobizx.com/google]. You can leave some honest feedback and a rating, which will help me and the show. I'll be sure to thank you on the show and add a link to your website or blog if you let me know the URL of your website and your name. Alternatively, if you've left a review for PhotoBizX and are looking for more backlinks to help your SEO, leave a review for the new Photography Xperiment Podcast [https://itunes.apple.com/au/podcast/photography-xperiment-podcast/id1116983755]. Email me your keywords or phrases and where you'd like me to link them. > The stock photo side is beautiful because the photos already exist. You don’t have to shoot them again to earn from them. – Kim Jongen Another great way to get a backlink to your site is to send a video testimonial. It doesn't need to be fancy, and your phone will be perfect. Click record and tell me how PhotoBizX has impacted you and your photography business. Here is the latest review… ★★★★★ Fantastic Photography Podcast! Via Apple Podcasts by Oklahoma City Photographer [https://missymayophotography.com/], Missy Mayo, who focuses on families and senior photography on June 28th, 2026 from the USA. Andrew is a fantastic podcaster who consistently offers great interviews, inspiration and real-life stories in the photography industry. I have listened to him for several years and always learn a good nugget or two of information! Kim Jongen Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Kim-Jongen-Photography-Podcast_3.jpg] LINKS TO PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Mother Puppers Website [https://motherpuppers.nl/] Mother Puppers on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/motherpuppersstudio] Mother Puppers on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/motherpuppersstudio] 570: Kim Jongen – Mother Puppers… The power of unique branding and original marketing ideas [https://photobizx.com/kim-jongen-the-power-of-unique-branding-and-original-marketing-ideas] > Clients are buying more wall art after their sessions, and I’ve started doing coaching calls. Those things help me make the same amount of money while working a little less. – Kim Jongen Kim Jongen Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Kim-Jongen-Photography-Podcast_5.jpg] THANK YOU! Huge thanks to Kim for coming back and sharing so openly in this interview. What stood out for me is how much her business has matured since we last spoke. She’s still creating the bold, colourful dog portraits that made Mother Puppers Studio so recognisable, but now she’s thinking more strategically about pricing, wall art, outsourcing, coaching and creating income that isn’t tied to shooting more clients every week. I loved hearing how she’s reduced the number of sessions she photographs, made more space for herself and still found ways to grow the business. I’d love to know what stood out for you. > Because the mini session is paid when they book, by the time they see the photos a month later, they’re more likely to buy more. – Kim Jongen That’s it for me this week; I hope everything is going well for you in life and business! Thanks for listening—speak soon, Andrew Kim Jongen Photography Podcast [https://photobizx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Kim-Jongen-Photography-Podcast_6.jpg] The post 675: Kim Jongen – Turning Viral Dog Photos Into Wall Art, Stock Sales and Coaching [https://photobizx.com/kim-jongen-turning-viral-dog-photos-into-wall-art-stock-sales-and-coaching] appeared first on Photography Business Xposed - Photography Podcast - how to build and market your portrait and wedding photography business [https://photobizx.com].