The Profitable Photographer Luci Dumas

“Always Do Your Best!Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are tired as opposed to well-rested. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse, and regret.”Hello, howdy, and thanks for tuning in.Soooo...this is a solo episode with random thoughts about many things, including some about always doing our best. The quote is from “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz…one of my favorite personal growth/ business success books. The twist isthat our best is different every day and it is important to give ourselves grace for being where we are at the moment. What is up at the moment for me is that I have had over a week wrangling a cold and cough. So doing interviews and personal recordings came to a stop, just when I needed new episodes. I didn’t want to abandon you so today I jumped on zoom, raspy voice and all, and shared what popped into my brain (what little I have today).Listen in to what came up about* acceptance* being a recovering perfectionist and* a fun coincidence after solving a World puzzle recently* being a recovering perfectionist.Hope you enjoy this small but hopefully valuable one-way conversation.Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: * Website (https://lucidumascoaching.com/) * Email: luci@lucidumas.com (mailto:luci@lucidumas.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theprofitablephotographer_pod/) * Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LuciDumasCoaching)* YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCut3Qk6t6Z2DUJYEYGSCfKA)

Hey there, lovely listeners! Today, we're joined by the wonderful Hayley Fisk, a passionate product and beauty photographer who's all about celebrating diversity and authentic beauty standards. With her background as a business mindset coach and over a decade of experience in the industry, Hayley's here to share some golden nuggets of wisdom with us.In this episode, Hayley dives into the world of commercial photography, sharing her perspective and experience. There are so many interesting details I was eager to learn about this genre and she did not disappoint.We explore the differences between commercial photography and the personal photography nichelike weddings and portraits. Some of these include…* The number of people involved in a commercial shoot compared to photography* That the client is not the person she is shooting with commercial* When, how much, and how we get paid* Mostly commercial gets paid upfront* We are both selling an experience* Networking is important in both* Embracing and promoting diversityWe also go pretty deep talking about how creating a community of like-minded photographers and referring others helps our businesses thrive. And creates a healthy business environment.Hayley is also an amazing business and mindset coach, especially for commercial photographers, and we have a powerful conversation about positive “vibes”, and the importance of managing our thoughts and energy that attracts what we desire.Closing Thoughts:Well, folks, that's a wrap for today's episode with the amazing Hayley Fisk! We've learned so much about the ins and outs of product and beauty photography, and we can't wait to put these tips into action. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations on The Profitable Photographer!Bonus…she has a great gift at https://theanxiousphotog.com/ (https://theanxiousphotog.com/)“How to Manifest Your Dream Clients”https://hayleyfisk.com/ (https://hayleyfisk.com/)Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayleyfiskphoto/ (https://www.instagram.com/hayleyfiskphoto/)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-fisk-photo (https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-fisk-photo)Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: * Website (https://lucidumascoaching.com/) * Email: luci@lucidumas.com (mailto:luci@lucidumas.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theprofitablephotographer_pod/) * Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LuciDumasCoaching)* YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCut3Qk6t6Z2DUJYEYGSCfKA)

So nice I am sharing it twice! Some great things deserve to be enjoyed more than once. This episode from 2 years ago with ProSelect Guru Ron Nichols is one of those. He has mastered the art of sales and has some great advice to help others do the same.Ron Nichols has excelled at In-person sales long before the term IPS was coined. Since graduating from college with an art degree, Ron has owned a studio where he perfected studio sales from both the psychological and technical aspects. He has worked closely with many software companies in creating applications that optimize sales efficiency while capitalizing on emotion and enabling back-end workflows.Ron has worked for many of the country’s top image-makers in developing sales processes and workflow schemes to increase studio profitability. His work now is exclusive as CEO of Pro Studio Sofware, Inc, since the acquisition of ProSelect. Ron’s photographic work and industry service have garnered awards from around the world. He has taught throughout the globe and is a PPA International Juror, Jury Chairman, and past PPA President. He is a member of the elite group, the Society of XXV.He has some great tips about in-person sales and workflow, making this an episode you won’t want to miss.You won’t want to miss:* All about his workflow.* The red flags you need to be on the lookout for.* His top sales tips.* What it’s like to be a CEO.Ron’s knowledge is top of the line. Be sure to tune it!Connect with Ron:* Website ProStudioSoftware.com (http://ProStudioSoftware.com) RonNichols.com (http://RonNichols.com)* https://www.instagram.com/i.ronnichols/ (https://www.instagram.com/i.ronnichols/)* Facebook ProSelect* Twitter ProStudioSWtheRonNicholsConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: * Website (https://lucidumascoaching.com/) * Email: luci@lucidumas.com (mailto:luci@lucidumas.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theprofitablephotographer_pod/) * Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LuciDumasCoaching)* YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCut3Qk6t6Z2DUJYEYGSCfKA)

Welcome to The Profitable Photographer Podcast! This week, I am delighted to share a conversation with Master Craftsman Bruce Hirsch, an amazing photographer and smart businessman as well. With a career spanning over 42 years, Bruce's passion lies in capturing the essence of families, though he's also had the honor of photographing Presidents, politicians, and sports celebrities..He shares how he booked an astounding 142 appointments in just 5 days doing what he call “Club Portraits”.! Discover his innovative approach to marketing without the use of paid ads, social media ads, TV ads, or direct mail. Uncover Bruce's secrets to success and his unwavering dedication to his craft.In this episode:* Discover Bruce’s “zone of genius”* How Bruce managed to to photograph presidents and celebrities* Explore the world of country clubs and how he turns relationships into a great specialty* Gain sales insights and tips for maximizing profits in your photography businessTune in now for an inspiring journey filled with invaluable tips and fascinating tales from the lens, guaranteed to give you some new ideas and ways to become even more profitable.!Connect with Bruce Hirsch: * Website (http://www.hirschstudio.com/) * Email: bruce@hirschstudio.com (mailto:bruce@hirschstudio.com)* Apply to be coached by Bruce (http://www.hirschstudio.com/for-photographers)* Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/HirschStudioFamilies)Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: * Website (https://lucidumascoaching.com/) * Email: luci@lucidumas.com (mailto:luci@lucidumas.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theprofitablephotographer_pod/) * Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LuciDumasCoaching)* YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCut3Qk6t6Z2DUJYEYGSCfKA)

Welcome to Luci Dumas's podcast “The Profitable Photographer”. This is a solo episode helping you “say no to CHEESE smiles”. I dive deep into the art of getting authentic expression from your subjects, whether they're children or adults. Say goodbye to forced grins and cheesy poses. I share tons of practical tips and tricks.After 40 years as a children’s portrait specialist, I have tons of ways I put children at ease and get those all-important reactions that are the key to true portrait art.In this episode,I help you capture genuine emotions that melt parent’s hearts and help you have bigger sales, not to mention more fun with the kids.It is important to1-Plan Ahead: Preparation is key. Anticipating the needs and preferences of your subjects can handle a lot of challenges before they start.2—Know the stages of childhood: Understanding the age group you're working with allows you to tailor your approach and connect with your subjects on a deeper level.3-Get on their Level: Literally and figuratively. I explore the importance of physical positioning and empathetic communication to establish rapport.4-Talk to Them: Have fun with them. Communication is key. Luci reveals the power of connection.Unlocking Playfulness with Props and Activities -I also share my favorite props and activities that unleash real smiles. Some include storytelling, silly songs, words that get true reactions. I also share about* Tripods: why I find them so important* Ways to loosen up facial muscles and encourage natural expressions.* Toys Galore: From soft bunnies, the tickle monster, and dog toys, I share my favorites that spark joy and get kid’s attentionNo matter how great your posing, lighting, locations or backgrounds, and props are…the key to successful photographs of children is to make them feel comfortable, engaged, and entertained so their true personalities shine through. Hope this episode helps you make what you do just a little bit better.Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: * Website (https://lucidumascoaching.com/) * Email: luci@lucidumas.com (mailto:luci@lucidumas.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theprofitablephotographer_pod/) * Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LuciDumasCoaching)* YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCut3Qk6t6Z2DUJYEYGSCfKA)

Welcome to this week's episode, where we're joined by the delightful Betsy Bird from “Ride the Sky Equine Photography”! Betsy, a Certified Professional Photographer with PPA, brings her radiant energy and wealth of experience to the table, offering insights into mastering time management for busy photographers.Horses have always been at the core of Betsy's journey, stemming from her upbringing on a horse-boarding farm in Georgia. From riding to judging and to capturing their essence through her lens, her passion for equines shines through in her work. With a background in both photography and marketing, Betsy's expertise extends beyond just capturing moments; she's a whiz at branding, goal-setting, and running a profitable business.Specializing in wall art portraits, Betsy's photography isn't just about images—it's about turning moments into timeless memories. Join us as we delve into the world of time management with Betsy Bird, where passion meets proficiency, and every click of the shutter is an opportunity to craft something truly magical. Get ready to be inspired and equipped with the tools to make your photography journey not just successful, but truly joyful!In this episode:* Pro tips for in-person sales* Strategies to set goals from long-term to short-term and grasp the bigger picture* Techniques for working smarter, not harder* Effective time management for busy schedules through automation* The significance of outsourcing* Embracing the importance of following your passionSo, let's harness the power of time management and creativity together, and ride into a future filled with endless possibilities in the world of photography!Connect with Betsy Bird: * Website (https://ridetheskyequine.com/)* Email: betsy@ridetheskyequine.com (mailto:betsy@ridetheskyequine.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ridetheskyequine)* Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ridetheskyequine)Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: * Website (https://lucidumascoaching.com/) * Email: luci@lucidumas.com (mailto:luci@lucidumas.com)* Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/theprofitablephotographer_pod/) * Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LuciDumasCoaching)* YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCut3Qk6t6Z2DUJYEYGSCfKA)