Off the Memory Card: A Photographer’s Podcast

offthememorycard
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

🎙️ Off the Memory Card Where photographers talk about everything but taking photos. Hosted by Cathleen Burns of Use That Camera, Off the Memory Card dives into the 90% of photography no one teaches you; running a business, handling clients and keeping your creativity alive. Each episode tackles real-life struggles like imposter syndrome, burnout, overwhelm, and work/life balance, along with practical tips for booking more clients, planning better sessions, and wowing everyone who steps in front of your lens. If you’re a photographer or entrepreneur who wants to build a business that enhances your life -- not one that drains it -- this show is for you.

  1. 2d ago

    Photographer Q&A: Travel Fees, Location Conflicts & Difficult Clients

    Some of the best podcast episodes come from real questions photographers are asking every day; and this week is exactly that. After answering multiple emails from photographers looking for advice, I realized many of you are probably facing the same challenges. So instead of focusing on one big topic, we're doing a grab bag Q&A episode covering three completely different situations that every photographer is likely to encounter at some point. We discuss how to price destination sessions, what to do when another photographer is already using your location, and how to recognize when a potential client may not be the right fit for your business. Whether you're just getting started or you've been photographing for years, these are practical situations that don't always have one perfect answer, but I'll share how we handle them in our own business and the lessons we've learned along the way. In This Episode How to determine travel fees for destination sessions When it's appropriate to charge (or not charge) for travel Tips for booking multiple clients to offset travel expenses What to do if another photographer is already at your shooting location Handling private locations vs. public spaces professionally Why kindness and communication go a long way when sharing locations Recognizing early warning signs of a difficult client Setting healthy boundaries before a session is even booked Charging appropriately for extra requests and extensive editing Why it's okay to say, "We're not the right fit." Protecting your time, your schedule, and your peace of mind Key Takeaway Every business decision doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're pricing travel, navigating a busy location, or setting boundaries with a demanding client; it all comes back to knowing your worth, protecting your time, and communicating with confidence. Mentioned in This Episode Episode 3: Dealing with Difficult Clients (for a deeper dive into handling challenging client situations) Let's Connect Have a photography business question you'd like answered on a future episode? Send it my way. You might hear it featured in an upcoming Q&A episode! If you enjoyed today's episode, I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a review and share the podcast with another photographer. Your support helps Off the Memory Card reach more photographers who need encouragement and practical business advice. Until next time... Be kind, work hard, and stay humble.

  2. Jul 13

    Taking a Vacation Without Taking Your Business With You

    When was the last time you truly stepped away from your business? In this week's episode, I'm sharing some thoughts after returning from a week-long family vacation in Nashville. As photographers and entrepreneurs, it's easy to physically leave work while mentally carrying it everywhere we go. This trip reminded me how important it is to be fully present, not just with family, but with ourselves. We talk about why unplugging can feel uncomfortable, why re-entry into work is always a little messy, and why taking time away isn't something you earn after everything is finished. It's something your mental health actually needs. I also share why I made the unusual decision to leave my camera at home, how watching my son play with his cousins shifted my perspective, and why those moments are worth protecting. Whether you can take a full week away or just carve out a single afternoon, I hope this episode encourages you to give yourself permission to disconnect. In This Episode Why it's so difficult for entrepreneurs to completely unplug What a week away from work taught me about being present The importance of protecting family memories instead of always documenting them Why coming back to work feeling behind is sometimes a worthwhile trade-off How taking time away can improve your mental health and creativity A simple challenge to help you disconnect; even if you only have one day Key Takeaway Your business will always have another email to answer, another session to edit, or another promotion to launch. But the moments with the people you love don't wait. Sometimes the most productive thing you can do for your business is to step away from it. Connect with Me If this episode resonated with you, I'd love to hear from you! Leave a review, send me a message, or share this episode with another photographer or entrepreneur who could use the reminder to slow down. And if you're enjoying Off the Memory Card, be sure to subscribe so you never miss a new episode. www.usethatcamera.com https://www.facebook.com/burnsexposures Be kind, work hard, and stay humble.

  3. Jul 6

    More Than a Photoshoot: The Transformative Power of Boudoir

    Boudoir photography is about so much more than beautiful portraits. For many women, it's an opportunity to rediscover confidence, embrace their bodies, and see themselves through a completely different lens. In this episode of Off the Memory Card, I sit down with boudoir photographer Brooke Tyler, owner of Leather and Lace Luxury Boudoir, to talk about her inspiring journey from full-time nurse to empowering women through photography. Brooke shares how her own boudoir experience after leaving an abusive relationship changed her life and inspired her to create a safe, uplifting space where women can celebrate who they are. We also discuss what really happens during a boudoir session, why trust is such an important part of the experience, and how these sessions often become just as healing as they are photographic. Brooke also opens up about balancing a successful photography business while working full-time as a nurse and raising a family. In this episode, we discuss: Brooke's journey through nursing and becoming a luxury boudoir photographer. How her own boudoir experience inspired her career. Why boudoir photography is about confidence, healing, and self-worth...not just beautiful photos. What clients can expect before and during a boudoir session. Creating a safe, judgment-free environment where women feel comfortable being themselves. The emotional transformations Brooke witnesses during every session. Balancing photography, nursing, motherhood and entrepreneurship. Time management, self-care and building a business you're passionate about. Whether you're a photographer interested in offering boudoir or someone who's always wondered what the experience is really like, this conversation offers an honest look at the life-changing impact boudoir photography can have. Connect with Brooke Tyler Follow Brooke and see more of her incredible work at Leather and Lace Luxury Boudoir on Facebook: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090227284726

  4. Jun 29

    What Teaching a Room Full of Photographers Taught Me

    What happens when you spend nine hours teaching photographers? You end up exhausted...but completely full. In this episode of Off the Memory Card, I'm sharing a different kind of workshop recap. Yes, we spent the day diving deep into lighting techniques, but what stayed with me had very little to do with camera settings. I talk about the boudoir photographer who finally had that breakthrough moment after struggling with consistency, the incredible photographer rebuilding her business after moving from Brazil; learning through a translation app every step of the way, and the unexpected joy of watching photographers connect, collaborate, and remind each other that none of us were meant to build this business alone. Whether you're just starting your photography journey or you've been running your business for years, this episode is a reminder that the relationships we build often matter just as much as the skills we learn. In This Episode Why this workshop left me exhausted; in the best possible way The moment one photographer finally understood lighting What a photographer from Brazil taught me about courage and perseverance How a room full of experienced photographers created something bigger than the workshop itself Why running a photography business can feel lonely, and how to change that The unexpected gift that teaching gives back to the teacher A simple challenge to help you build your photography community this week Key Takeaway Photography isn't meant to be a solo journey. Sometimes the biggest breakthroughs don't come from mastering your camera; they come from connecting with people who understand exactly what you're building. Listen & Subscribe If this episode encouraged you, please share it with another photographer who could use the reminder that they don't have to do this alone.

  5. Jun 22

    The Messy Middle: 5 Business Lessons from a Studio Renovation

    Renovations, Sawdust & Business Lessons from the Messy Middle What can a studio renovation teach you about running a photography business? As it turns out...quite a lot. In this episode of Off The Memory Card, I'm recording from the middle of a renovation project. There’s sawdust everywhere, half-finished spaces, and plenty of moments where I've wondered if this was all a good idea. But standing in the middle of the chaos has reminded me of several lessons that apply to every photographer, whether you own a studio, shoot outdoors, or work from a corner of your living room. In this episode, I share five business lessons I've learned while renovating my photography studio: Why your space is part of the product you're selling How to build for the work you want, not just the work you're currently booking The connection between organization and creativity Why growth often requires investing before you feel completely ready How to navigate the uncomfortable "messy middle" that comes with any major change If you've ever felt stuck between where you are and where you want your business to be, this episode is for you. In This Episode ✔ Creating a client experience that starts before the photos are taken ✔ Designing your business around your future goals ✔ The hidden cost of disorganization ✔ Making strategic investments in your growth ✔ Why the middle of any transformation feels chaotic ✔ Learning to trust the process when the payoff isn't visible yet Key Takeaway The messy middle isn't proof that you're failing. It's proof that you're in the process. Whether you're raising your prices, rebranding, learning a new skill, or building something bigger than what exists today, the discomfort is often part of the journey. Keep going. The dust settles. Connect With Me If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with another photographer who might need this reminder. You can also find more photography education, business advice, and behind-the-scenes content at www.usethatcamera.com Remember: Be kind, work hard, and stay humble.

  6. Jun 15

    The Summer Slowdown: Why the Quiet Season Might Be Your Biggest Opportunity

    After the whirlwind of spring sessions, senior photos, cap-and-gown shoots, and packed calendars; many photographers find themselves staring at an unexpectedly quiet summer. And if you're anything like me, that sudden slowdown can feel a little unsettling. In this episode, I'm sharing why a slower season isn't something to panic about. It's something to embrace. We'll talk about how the rhythm of my business has changed since stepping away from weddings, why June and July can feel surprisingly quiet, and how photographers can use this time intentionally instead of scrambling to stay busy. In This Episode: Why summer slowdowns can feel uncomfortable after a busy spring How business seasons change as your photography business evolves The dangers of panic-discounting and booking work you don't actually want Why a slow season isn't a problem to solve; it's time to use wisely Business Tasks for Your Slow Season: Clean up your website, booking system, pricing, and workflows Create content and grow your audience Ask recent clients for testimonials and reviews Scout new locations for fall minis and holiday sessions Prepare your marketing and booking systems before the fall rush Personal Tasks for Your Slow Season: Pick up your camera and shoot for yourself again Spend intentional time with your family and friends Read, relax, and recharge Remember why you fell in love with photography in the first place A Little Teaser... I'm also sharing a small hint about something exciting I've been building during this slower season—a new space designed to help photographers learn, grow, and support one another. More details are coming soon! Key Takeaway The quiet season is not something to fear. It's an opportunity to get ahead, reconnect with your creativity, invest in your business, and give yourself permission to rest. The work you do now,and the rest you allow yourself to enjoy, can set the stage for a smoother, more successful fall season. Enjoying the Podcast? If you're enjoying Off the Memory Card, I'd be incredibly grateful if you'd leave a review. Your reviews help more photographers discover the show and allow us to keep having these conversations together. Be kind, work hard and stay humble.

  7. Jun 8

    If I Had to Rebuild My Photography Studio From Scratch

    If I had to rebuild my photography studio from scratch, what would I buy first? That’s exactly what we’re talking about in this episode. As we continue renovating our studio, I’ve realized very quickly which items are truly essential…and which ones just take up space. During the chaos of construction, painting, moving things around, and trying not to lose my mind, there are a handful of things I’ve made sure stayed easily accessible because we use them constantly. In this episode, I’m breaking down the core studio essentials I believe every photographer should start with, whether you’re building a home studio, renting/buying a space, or just trying to simplify your setup. We cover: Why white seamless paper is still one of the best backdrop options What you need to support that paper Different lighting options for every budget and shooting style The importance of having simple posing furniture Why artificial plants are secretly one of the best studio purchases What I would NOT spend money on right away This episode is a reminder that you do NOT need a massive studio or expensive setup to create beautiful images. Simplicity usually works better than people think. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the gear and studio inspiration online, this episode will help you focus on what actually matters. Follow along with our studio renovation and behind-the-scenes content: https://www.facebook.com/burnsexposures

  8. Jun 1

    Editing Arguments & Photoshoot Date Nights: The Reality of Running a Business as a Married Couple

    Running a business with your spouse can be one of the most rewarding (and challenging) parts of entrepreneurship. In this episode, Jeremy and I sit down for a very candid conversation about what it’s really like building a photography business together while also navigating marriage, parenting and everyday life. We talk about how photoshoots often double as our version of date night, why editing seems to be the source of most of our disagreements, and how we’ve stopped chasing the idea of “perfect” work/life balance. Instead, we’ve learned to let work and family naturally integrate together. Sometimes our son tags along to sessions, and sometimes editing happens while Jeremy and him are playing nearby. It’s messy, imperfect, and honestly… it works for us. We also share a behind-the-scenes look at what life currently looks like in this season of business: renovating our studio, preparing for summer photography camps and workshops, and juggling all the moving pieces that come with running both a business and a family. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to work with your spouse, or if you’re trying to figure out how to blend business and family life without losing your mind, this episode is for you. Topics We Cover: • Working together as a married couple • Why photoshoots sometimes feel like date night • The reality of disagreements in business partnerships • Letting work and life integrate instead of forcing “balance” • Parenting while running a photography business • Studio renovations and current behind-the-scenes projects • Summer photography camps and workshops • Building a business that fits your real life

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🎙️ Off the Memory Card Where photographers talk about everything but taking photos. Hosted by Cathleen Burns of Use That Camera, Off the Memory Card dives into the 90% of photography no one teaches you; running a business, handling clients and keeping your creativity alive. Each episode tackles real-life struggles like imposter syndrome, burnout, overwhelm, and work/life balance, along with practical tips for booking more clients, planning better sessions, and wowing everyone who steps in front of your lens. If you’re a photographer or entrepreneur who wants to build a business that enhances your life -- not one that drains it -- this show is for you.

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