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. 1d ago

    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.

    10 min

  2. 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.

    13 min

  3. 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.

    10 min

  4. 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

    15 min

  5. 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

    25 min

  6. May 25

    Seasonal Confusion & Thinking 3 Steps Ahead in Your Photography Business

    If you’ve ever caught yourself shopping for Christmas props in May, scouting fall locations during summer, or planning spring minis while editing Santa sessions…welcome to photography business ownership. In this episode, we’re talking about the strange reality of always thinking several seasons ahead as a photographer. From ordering backdrops early to planning marketing campaigns months in advance, running a successful photography business often means living in a constant state of seasonal confusion. We’re pulling back the curtain on all the behind-the-scenes planning clients never see and discussing why thinking ahead can reduce stress, improve profitability and help your business run more smoothly year-round. Whether you’re just starting out or trying to become more intentional in your business, this episode will help you shift from constantly reacting to strategically planning ahead. In This Episode: Why photographers are almost always working ahead of the current season The real timeline behind successful mini sessions How planning early can save money and reduce stress The invisible work clients rarely see Why seasonal overlap feels so chaotic How thinking ahead improves client experience and profitability Simple ways to become more proactive in your business Mentioned in This Episode: Planning Christmas minis in spring 4th of July sessions Fall mini location scouting Seasonal marketing timelines The difference between hobby mindset vs business-owner mindset If this episode made you feel a little less alone in your seasonal confusion, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another photographer who’s currently listening to Christmas music in May.

    8 min

  7. May 18

    Photography Pricing Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

    In this episode, we’re talking all about photography pricing, and why there’s no universal “right way” to do it. One photographer charges $200. Another charges $2,000. And somehow…both are profitable. So what gives? The truth is, pricing is deeply personal. Your prices should reflect more than just your skill level. They should support your lifestyle, personality, business goals, workload and the type of experience you want to create for your clients. In this episode, I break down: The biggest factors that affect pricing Why photographers charge such different amounts How to choose a pricing model that actually fits YOU The pros and cons of three common photography pricing systems: Hourly/session rate IPS (In-Person Sales) Tiered packages We also talk about: Overhead costs and profitability Location and market differences Introvert vs extrovert-friendly business models Luxury vs simplicity High-volume vs low-volume businesses Why comparing your prices to other photographers can be harmful Whether you’re brand new to photography or considering changing your current pricing structure, this episode will help you think more strategically, and more personally, about the way you run your business. Because at the end of the day, the best pricing strategy is the one that keeps you profitable and happy.

    13 min

  8. May 12

    The Power of the Pivot

    In this episode, I'm joined by my husband/business partner, Jeremy, to discuss the art of pivoting in photography and business. We share personal experiences, strategies for managing change and overcoming fears associated with it. Key Topics The importance of pivoting in business growth Managing fear and uncertainty during change Strategies for transitioning through a pivot Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Change and Enoughness 07:57 Navigating the Photography Business Landscape 13:45 Embracing New Opportunities and Challenges 19:55 Learning from Mistakes and Growth 27:58 Advice for Photographers Facing Change

    33 min
See All (25)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

🎙️ 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.

Information