The Seniorologie Podcast

Leslie Kerrigan
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The Seniorologie Podcast

The Seniorologie Podcast hosted by Leslie Kerrigan is a podcast dedicated to the study of high school senior portrait photography. Whether you have been a senior photographer for a while or are just starting out in the senior photography genre, this podcast will help you build a successful senior portrait business. Join me to learn all there is to know about senior portrait photography.

  1. JAN 29

    Ep 170 – Building A Business On Relationships and Referrals

    Building a Photography Business on Relationships and Referrals with Jen Denton In this episode of The Seniorologie Podcast, Jen Denton shares invaluable insights into building a successful senior photography business through authentic connections and strategic marketing. If you’re ready to take your photography business to the next level, Jen’s advice is a must-listen! Jen is a contributor to The Seniorologie Bundle which includes resources from top industry experts for one low price of only $97!  The Seniorologie Bundle will be available for purchase February 10! Episode Highlights: * Why building relationships and focusing on word-of-mouth is the best form of marketing. * The power of email marketing—why it’s more effective than social media for staying front-of-mind. * The surprising shift in senior photography: increasing numbers of senior boys booking sessions. * Jen’s unique approach to growing her business with a satellite studio during the slow season. * How Jen’s business philosophy prioritizes people over photos and treats each client with kindness and flexibility. Building a Business Based on Relationships Jen Denton kicks off the conversation by emphasizing the importance of relationship-building in her business. Unlike many businesses that rely heavily on paid ads, Jen has built her senior photography empire solely on referrals and word-of-mouth from satisfied clients. By focusing on creating meaningful relationships with clients, Jen has seen her business thrive, and it all begins with treating people well. She reminds us that the most effective marketing tool is how you make your clients feel. It’s not just about the photos; it’s about the experience. Jen states, “How you treat people matters,” and I couldn’t agree more. This philosophy has paid off for her in ways that go far beyond just client retention—she’s built a community that trusts her, which has been crucial for sustained success. The Power of Email Marketing When it comes to marketing, Jen’s approach might surprise you—she hasn’t spent a dime on advertising since day one! While many photographers turn to social media and paid promotions, Jen has found that email marketing is the key to staying connected with clients and prospects. Jen is quick to point out that the one marketing strategy you have complete control over is your email list. She suggests focusing on nurturing that list through regular, value-driven communication. For Jen, email marketing helps her stay top of mind, even if people don’t always open her emails. In fact, just having your name show up in someone’s inbox is enough to keep you front of mind—whether they open it or not. But Jen’s approach to email marketing isn’t just about staying visible; it’s about being authentic and engaging. In particular, Jen focuses her email campaigns on parents rather than seniors themselves, because parents are far more likely to read (and act on) emails than the teens who may be too busy to check them. The Growing Popularity of Senior Boys In a market often dominated by senior girls, Jen has experienced a surprising trend: more and more senior boys are booking sessions. While she does have more girls in her portfolio, Jen finds that about half of her senior clients each year are male, which is a rarity in the industry. She’s especially proud of her work with senior boys, who often don’t get as much attention in the photography world. Jen also shares a fun anecdote about how word of mouth among senior moms has boosted her business. She learned about a gathering of senior boy moms who were recommending Jen to others, proving that strong relationships with parents can lead to more business in unexpected ways. Growing Through a Satellite Studio One of the most exciting topics Jen discusses is her innovative strategy for expanding her business during the of...

    41 min

  2. JAN 22

    Ep 169 – The Business of Photography with Annemie Tonken

    The Business of Photography with Annemie Tonken In this episode of The Seniorologie Podcast, I had an insightful conversation with Annemie, a seasoned photographer and entrepreneur of This Can’t Be That Hard, about balancing the art and business sides of photography. Annemie shared invaluable tips on marketing, streamlining workflows, and the importance of intentionality in building a successful photography business. Annemie is a contributor to The Seniorologie Bundle which will be released February 10, 2025. She is contributing The Photographer’s Business Plan Glow-Up and I can’t wait for yall to get your hands on this!  Normally this is $97 by itself but with the Seniorologie Bundle you can get this and 20 other resources from educators to help you with your business for just $97! Episode Highlights * The Power of Email Marketing Annemie emphasizes email as the cornerstone of her marketing strategy. * Email allows you to own your audience, unlike social media platforms, which can change algorithms or policies. * It’s a great tool to build trust and stay top of mind for potential clients. * Best Practices for Email Marketing * Start an email list as early as possible. * Send emails twice a month to ensure consistency without overwhelming your audience. * Think of your emails as a “billboard” – even if they aren’t opened, they remind people of your brand. * Tools of the Trade * Annemie recommends Flodesk for its user-friendly design or ConvertKit for more robust functionality. * Repurpose email content for social media to streamline your marketing efforts. * The Role of AI in Content Creation * Annemie uses ChatGPT as a brainstorming tool, not a replacement for authentic writing. * It’s especially helpful for breaking through writer’s block or finding analogies and stories to make your emails and content more engaging. * The Donkey, Workhorse, and Unicorn Model Annemie uses this analogy to describe business models for photographers: * Unicorn: High-end boutique service with low volume and high prices. * Donkey: Volume-based, lower-price model (e.g., mini sessions). * Workhorse: A balanced approach with mid-to-high pricing and streamlined processes. Annemie’s own business operates as a “workhorse” model, combining personalized service with efficiency and automation. Actionable Takeaways * Invest in Email Marketing * Focus on building and nurturing an email list as your main marketing tool. * Remember, consistency and quality matter more than frequency. * Streamline Your Business * Evaluate your workflows and identify opportunities to automate or simplify processes. * Tools like Flodesk and ConvertKit can help manage your email campaigns efficiently. * Leverage AI as a Creative Partner * Use tools like ChatGPT to brainstorm and refine ideas for your content. * It’s a great way to add depth and creativity to your emails without relying on it to do all the work. * Define Your Business Model * Determine which business model fits your lifestyle and goals: Unicorn, Donkey, or Workhorse. * Consider how you can align your pricing and volume with the kind of work-life balance you want. * Focus on Brand Awareness * Marketing isn’t just about immediate sales; it’s about staying visible and building trust over time. * Ensure your audience recognizes your name and associates it with the services you provide. This episode is a reminder that successful businesses are built on intentional strategies and alignment with...

    37 min

  3. JAN 15

    How to Create a Well-Rounded Senior Portrait Experience

    Creating a Well-Rounded Experience for Seniors with Michelle Nichols In this episode, Michelle Nichols of Michelle Nichols photography shares the importance of creating a well-rounded experience for seniors, not just focusing on photography but on the entire journey – from pre-session communication to post-session delivery. Michelle started her photography business without a lot of equipment and instead worked hard to build her business, focusing on seniors and working to empower them with body positivity and help her clients feel comfortable in front of her camera.  She aims to create not only high quality images but also a boutique experience for each one of her clients. Episode Highlights:  Offer a Replicable Experience Focus on the experience: Michelle suggests that creating an experience for your senior clients—one that is consistent and replicable—is a powerful way to stand out. This helps not only with organization but also ensures that every senior feels valued and special, not just another number. Pre-session communication: From questionnaires to Zoom calls, offering personalized prep work helps you understand your clients’ preferences, which contributes to a more tailored and enjoyable experience. Know Your Ideal Client Who are you attracting? Understanding your ideal client and what they value is critical for effective marketing. Michelle suggests narrowing down your target audience, like athletes or fashion-forward seniors, so you can tailor your marketing strategies. Not just the photos, but the full experience: It’s not just about capturing great photos. The senior you attract should be someone who values the entire process, from pre-session to posing to the final product. Use Testimonials to Gauge the Experience Let your clients’ words do the talking: Michelle talks about the power of testimonials in your marketing. If your seniors repeatedly highlight how much they loved the experience, this is a strong signal that your marketing is resonating with your ideal clients. Marketing through the Experience Stand out in a saturated market: To stand out in a competitive field, Michelle advocates for marketing the experience rather than focusing purely on the final photos. By showcasing the process and how you help seniors feel confident and natural during their shoots, you provide a much stronger value proposition than photographers who focus just on the outcome. Address Pain Points in Your Messaging Understand your clients’ fears: Michelle also mentions how understanding your clients’ fears or past negative experiences with photographers can help you address them in your messaging. For example, many seniors are nervous about how to pose, so positioning yourself as someone who can guide them through this can be a key selling point. Know, Like, Trust Factor on Social Media Building trust through content: When it comes to social media, Michelle recommends using the “Know, Like, Trust” approach: Know: First, create content that introduces you to your audience. This could be a fun reel or post that introduces your personality and services. Like: Then, nurture them by sharing educational content that helps your audience feel confident about booking you. This could include tips on what to wear, how to pose, or what to expect during the shoot. Trust: The final stage is building trust, where your audience feels comfortable reaching out and booking you. Promote Your Process, Not Just Your Final Images Highlight your process: It’s not just about showing off your beautiful photos; it’s also about demonstrating how you help your clients get to that final image. By showcasing behind-the-scenes moments or sharing the steps you take to make them feel comfortabl...

    37 min

  4. JAN 8

    Ep 167 – Mindful Marketing for Photographers with Andrea Jones

    Mindful Marketing for Photographers with Andrea Jones In this episode, Andréa Jones, a mindful marketing strategist, shares her expertise on social media marketing and how small business owners, particularly photographers, can create marketing strategies that align with their personal lives and business goals. With a background in blogging, social media, and personal branding, Andréa discusses how photographers can better use social media to build relationships, connect with their audience, and promote their businesses while staying true to their unique style. Tune in for advice on finding your signature content, choosing the right social media platforms, and creating marketing plans that are both effective and manageable. Episode Highlights: The Mindful Approach to Social Media: * Understanding and managing the love-hate relationship with social media. * Acknowledging emotions and setting boundaries with platforms to avoid burnout. Choosing the Right Social Media Platform: * Why photographers should pick platforms they enjoy using rather than forcing themselves onto ones that don’t align with their strengths. * Focus on one platform at first, then diversify once you’re comfortable. Signature Content and Consistency: * The importance of creating content that’s easy to produce and true to your brand. * Why consistency is key, even if the content feels simple or easy for you to make. Diversifying Without Overstretching: * How to repurpose content across multiple platforms (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest) without spreading yourself too thin. * Keep your primary focus on one platform but experiment with others as your content grows. Actionable Takeaways: * Identify Your Signature Content: * As a photographer, your work is inherently visual, so focus on creating content that showcases your photography style. Whether it’s carousels, reels, or stories, pick what’s easiest for you to create consistently. * Choose Platforms That Suit Your Style: * Don’t force yourself onto every platform—pick one that aligns with your strengths (e.g., Instagram for visual work or LinkedIn for written content) and focus on mastering it. * Set Boundaries Around Social Media Use: * Limit your time on social media to avoid burnout. Create a set amount of time weekly for content creation and engagement. * Repurpose Content Across Multiple Platforms: * When you create a piece of content, share it across several platforms (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) to maximize reach without creating more work. * Be Authentic and Consistent: * Find a content style that’s easy for you to produce, stay authentic, and be consistent with your posts. This will build trust with your audience and keep your marketing manageable. By implementing these strategies, photographers can leverage social media in a way that feels natural, avoids overwhelm, and helps them grow their business effectively. Where to connect with Andrea: Website:  www.onlinedrea.com Retreat:  www.onlinedrea.com/retreat Instagram:  @onlinedrea TikTok:  @onlinedrea Andrea will be a contributor in The Seniorologie Bundle which will be available on February 10th!  To get early access and a bonus secret podcast episode with actionable advice from industry experts, join the bundle waitlist HERE.

    28 min

  5. JAN 1

    Ep 166 – From Photographer to Coach: Finding Your Brand with Paige Puglisi

    Finding Your Brand with Paige Puglisi In this episode, I chat with senior photographer and coach Paige Puglisi, who shares her 15-year journey from photographing families to becoming a sought-after senior photographer and mentor. Paige dives into how she discovered her niche, her passion for working with teens, and how personal branding transformed her career. Listen in as they discuss the evolution of senior photography, post-COVID shifts, and tips for navigating industry changes while staying authentic to your creative voice. Episode Highlights: Choosing Senior Photography: * How personal branding led Paige to discover senior photography as her niche. * The challenges of building a senior photography business in a market unfamiliar with the concept. The Joy of Working with Teens: * Paige’s love for capturing the spirit, hope, and possibilities of teenagers. * How her background in fashion influences her styling and approach to senior sessions. Evolution of Senior Photography: * Changes in client behavior and expectations, especially post-COVID. * The shift from engagement on Instagram to a quieter, more private browsing style. Challenges with Senior Model Teams: * How the dynamics of senior model teams have shifted, including scheduling and referrals. * Adjusting team strategies to adapt to current trends in senior photography. Advice for Senior Photographers: * The importance of leaning into personal branding to attract ideal clients. * Why authenticity and self-awareness are key to navigating industry changes. Actionable Takeaways: * Clarify Your Branding: * Reflect on who you are as a photographer and what makes your work unique. * Define your dream client and tailor your messaging to attract them authentically. * Adapt to Social Media Changes: * Focus on creating content that resonates with your target audience’s current habits, even if it means less engagement and more passive viewership. * Embrace Personal Connections: * Build lasting relationships with clients to create lifelong advocates for your brand. * Stay engaged through follow-ups, social media, and offering services beyond senior photography. * Streamline Senior Model Teams: * Simplify the structure and scheduling of team activities to fit modern clients’ busy lives. * Focus on quality interactions rather than high participation rates. * Stay True to Yourself: * Resist trends that don’t align with your values or style, even if marketed as essential for “reaching Gen Z.” * Authenticity will always attract the right clients. By following these insights, photographers can confidently navigate the evolving senior photography landscape while staying true to their artistic voice. Links & Resources: * Paige’s Website – Discover resources, podcast episodes, and blogs on systems and client management. Join the Conversation: Have questions? Tag us on @seniorologie and let us know! Don’t Forget to JOIN The Bundle Waitlist Paige is a contributor to The Seniorologie Bundle which is a jam-packed educational resource for photographers that includes over 20 courses and templates for one low price of $97!  The Seniorologie Bundle will be available on February 10th but you can get early access and a bonus private podcast episode with practical advice from industry experts by joining the Bundle VIP List a href="https://seniorologie.

    31 min

  6. 12/18/2024

    Ep 165 – Client Management Systems with Colie James

    Streamline Your Photography Business With Smart Systems – An Interview with Colie James Today’s episode we are talking all things client management systems!!  Join Colie James, a systems expert for photographers and I as we dive deep into the benefits of implementing a Client Relationship Manager or CRM.  Whether you are new to CRMs, nervous about automation or unsure where to start with organizing your processes, this episode provides actionable tips to help you reclaim time, reduce stress and deliver exceptional client experience. Episode Highlights: What is a CRM? * A Client Relationship Manager (CRM) centralizes all client-related tasks and communication in one place, saving time and mental energy. * Colie shares her journey from manual processes to discovering CRMs in 2015. Getting Started Without Overwhelm * Start by documenting your current systems (even if they live in your head). * Understand your workflow from inquiry to delivery before choosing tech solutions. Debunking Automation Fears * Automation is optional! CRMs allow for manual approvals to maintain control. * Colie shares examples of clients who embraced automation in stages for peace of mind. Time Saved Equals Business Growth * On average, a CRM can save 4–5 hours per client, freeing time for marketing, family, or personal goals. * The importance of templates and automating repeatable tasks like follow-ups and inquiry emails. Choosing the Right CRM * Avoid outgrowing your CRM by choosing one with robust features, even if you’re starting out. * Colie’s advice on evaluating CRMs for scalability and long-term use. Addressing Dead Space in Client Communication * Why communication between the session and gallery delivery is crucial. * Tips for nurturing clients during their most anxious moments. Actionable Takeaways: * Write down every step of your workflow, even if it’s manual, to identify inefficiencies. * Start small: Use your CRM for centralization and organization before diving into automation. * Create email templates for common client interactions to save time and ensure consistency. * Choose a CRM that can grow with your business to avoid costly transitions later. Links & Resources: * Colie’s Website – Discover resources, podcast episodes, and blogs on systems and client management. * Recommended CRMs – A curated list of CRMs Colie recommends for photographers. * Colie’s Podcast – Business-First Creatives – Join Colie as she chats with fellow entrepreneurs on business strategy Join the Conversation: Have questions or want to share your experience with CRMs? Tag us on @seniorologie and let us know! Don’t Forget to JOIN The Bundle Waitlist Colie is a contributor to The Seniorologie Bundle which is a jam-packed educational resource for photographers that includes over 20 courses and templates for one low price of $97!  The Seniorologie Bundle will be available on February 10th but you can get early access and a bonus private podcast episode with practical advice from industry experts by joining the Bundle VIP List HERE. If you found this episode helpful, leave a review and subscribe so you never miss an update.

    38 min

  7. 12/11/2024

    Ep 164 – An Interview with Renee Bowen

    Interview with Renee Bowen Today’s episode of The Seniorologie Podcast I’m chatting with Renee Bowen, a high school senior photographer who has been capturing seniors since 2007.  Renee shares her journey from shooting film to becoming an educator in senior photography. Using Social Media Trends To Engage With Potential Clients Renee shares valuable advice on both the creative and business sides of photography including tips on using social media, creating and managing content and staying up to date with trends. Renee shares the importance of experimenting with new techniques and being will to adapt which has led her to creating a long career in senior photography.  She also shares her social media strategy for photographers by explaining how blogging, automation and repurposing content can help you save time while engaging with potential clients. Listen to this insightful conversation with Renee!! To connect with Renee online, find her: Website:  www.reneebowen.com Instagram:  @reneebowen TikTok:  @renee_bowen The Seniorologie Bundle Waitlist To be the first to get exclusive access to the Seniorologie Bundle, included educational content from Renee and 23 other industry experts plus a bonus private podcast with specific advice from these experts, add your name to the waitlist below!  The Seniorologie Bundle is available to the public on February 10th but you will get early access plus the bonus podcast only available to those on the waitlist! Sign up here – SENIOROLOGIE BUNDLE WAILIST

    53 min

  8. 12/04/2024

    Ep 163: An Interview with Liz of Elisabeth Anne Photography

    The Seniorologie Podcast Is Back With All New Episodes The podcast is back with an all new season!!  And we are kicking this season off with a series of interviews of some of our industry’s best!  I absolutely love chatting with other’s in the industry and learning something from each of them! So be sure to listen to this series because all of these educator’s have valuable information to share! Use Your Uniqueness to Bring Out The Best In Your Senior Clients Today’s episode features a fun conversation with Liz of Elisabeth Anne Photography, an Ohio-based senior photographer and educator.  We dive into Liz’s professional journey, how she uses her own vibrant personality to bring out her client’s personality on each photoshoot, her unique approach to creating fun, memorable experiences for her clients and her advice on how staying true to yourself will be the best way to market your business to seniors and parents. The conversation touches on the contrast between working with children and teens, exploring different energies and approaches can bring out the best in each.  Liz shares her journey and how she decided to specialize in seniors and how you can create a successful senior photography business. This episode is a must-listen for photographers seeking inspiration on authenticity, growth and finding their niche.  Through Liz’s enthusiasm for what she does and her practical advice, you will be inspired to create a thriving photography business that embraces who you are! You can find Liz at the links below!  She is also a contributor in the all new Seniorologie Bundle which will be on sale starting February 10!  To be the first to get access to this bundle and a private podcast episode featuring advice for senior photographers from Liz and other industry experts, add your name to the Bundle Waitlist below! Where to connect to Liz: Website:  www.elisabethannephotography.com Instagram: @elisabethannephotography TikTok:  @elisabethannephoto JOIN THE SENIOROLOGIE BUNDLE WAITLIST – an educational bundle for senior photographers www.seniorologie.com/bundle

    43 min
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4.7
out of 5
40 Ratings

About

The Seniorologie Podcast hosted by Leslie Kerrigan is a podcast dedicated to the study of high school senior portrait photography. Whether you have been a senior photographer for a while or are just starting out in the senior photography genre, this podcast will help you build a successful senior portrait business. Join me to learn all there is to know about senior portrait photography.

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