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Profitable Photographer Podcast
Profitable Photographer Podcast
Author: Luci Dumas
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© Copyright 2026 Profitable Photographer Podcast
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Do you LOVE photography but feel totally overwhelmed trying to turn it into a real, money-making business?
You're not alone — most photographers aren’t natural-born business pros. The creative part? Easy. But the business part...that’s where it gets tough. That is exactly why I created The Profitable Photographer. Every week, I bring you fun and heart centered conversations with top photographers and industry experts who share their best ACTIONABLE marketing and photography sales strategies, “inner game” shift tools that clear our roadblocks to success, and all the business wisdom they've learned along the way.
Plus, I hop on the mic solo to share the ups, downs, and lessons from my own 40 years behind the camera (and behind the business).
Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your already-successful photography business, (and have lot more fun) you’ll find honest talk, practical tips, and loads of inspiration to help you thrive — not just survive — as a professional photographer.
So let’s dive in, get inspired, and build the photography career of your dreams!
You're not alone — most photographers aren’t natural-born business pros. The creative part? Easy. But the business part...that’s where it gets tough. That is exactly why I created The Profitable Photographer. Every week, I bring you fun and heart centered conversations with top photographers and industry experts who share their best ACTIONABLE marketing and photography sales strategies, “inner game” shift tools that clear our roadblocks to success, and all the business wisdom they've learned along the way.
Plus, I hop on the mic solo to share the ups, downs, and lessons from my own 40 years behind the camera (and behind the business).
Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your already-successful photography business, (and have lot more fun) you’ll find honest talk, practical tips, and loads of inspiration to help you thrive — not just survive — as a professional photographer.
So let’s dive in, get inspired, and build the photography career of your dreams!
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I LOVED this episode of The Profitable Photographer with Suzanne Luttig, and I have to say—this conversation completely shifted the way I think about real estate photography.It was so popular in 2023, I decided to give it a “reboot.”What I love most about Suzanne’s journey is how intentional she was from the very beginning. When she decided to become a photographer, she didn’t just “wing it.” She went all in—education, mentorship, learning both the craft and the business side. It’s such a powerful reminder that growth doesn’t happen by accident… it happens when we commit to learning, practicing, and showing up again and again.We also talk about why real estate photography can be an incredible niche—especially for photographers who are a little further along in life and looking for something sustainable, creative, and profitable. Suzanne shares how this path opened doors for her in a way that felt aligned and energizing.And honestly? She made it sound like so much more fun than most of us imagine. From chasing beautiful light to composing interiors with intention, there’s a level of artistry here that might surprise you.She would love for you to friend her on Facebook, look up her website, and ask her more questions about Real Estate Photography at timelessnebraska.com or https://www.facebook.com/TimelessNebraskaMedia/Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
This episode felt like such a full-circle moment for me. I’m talking with my former photography mentee, Cortnie Davis, who has grown from an 18-year-old wedding photographer into a thoughtful consultant helping creative entrepreneurs build calmer, more sustainable businesses.Cortnie began her career behind the camera and later added floristry to her creative life. Today she works at the intersection of creativity, systems, and sales, helping wedding professionals and other service-based creatives turn all that invisible behind-the-scenes work into intentional systems that actually support their businesses.With a background in hospitality and years of client-facing experience, Cortnie believes strong processes should feel human and supportive — not rigid or overwhelming. She’s equal parts people-obsessed and spreadsheet-loving, and her work focuses on helping creatives build workflows that allow their artistry to thrive.In our conversation, we also reminisce about her early photography days and the moment at a conference when a little encouragement helped her keep going. Hearing how that stayed with her all these years truly touched my heart.We also talk about the powerful mindset shift from scarcity to service, and why documenting your workflows and using tools like HoneyBook and ShootProof can make running a photography business so much easier.In this episode• The moment of encouragement that helped Cortnie stay in photography• Why a service mindset can calm anxiety and make selling feel natural• How documenting your workflows can completely change your business• The importance of personal touches in client communication• Systems and tools that free creatives to focus on what they loveA thoughtful, honest conversation about creativity, burnout, service, and building a photography business that feels calmer, clearer, and more profitable — without losing the human touch.To connect with Cortnie hello@cortniedee.comcortniedee.comConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
You will love this wonderful conversation with my Canadian friend Cristina Sacco — a photographer who has built a thriving career for more than 20 years by staying curious, saying yes to opportunities, and bringing heart into everything she photographs.Cristina is the founder of Boy Girl Photography, where she photographs newborns and families, and Stetati Media, where she works with corporate and medical clients on larger commercial projects. We talk about how her journey evolved from photographing babies to producing commercial shoots, and how being open to new opportunities helped her grow her skills and confidence.Her career has unfolded in surprising ways by just saying yes to requests for jobs outside of her main focus. This led her to create a brand new aspect to her business as a commercial photographer while still having her portrait photography specialty.One of the most powerful parts of our conversation is how giving back through nonprofit work opened unexpected doors in her career. Cristina has volunteered her photography for several charities, including projects supporting breast cancer survivors and the organization Cameras for Girls, where she now serves on the board.She also shares why photographers should stop comparing themselves to others and instead focus on creating meaningful work and a genuine connection with their clients.In this episode, we discuss:• How she built two photography businesses• Why volunteering with your photography can open unexpected doors• The power of connection when photographing people• How saying yes to opportunities can expand your careerCristina’s story is a beautiful reminder that when we follow our passions and stay open to new experiences, our photography careers can grow in ways we never expected.Connect with Her:Boy Girl Photography – https://boygirlphotography.comStetati Media – https://stetatimedia.com/If you'd like support building a photography business that truly works for you, you can schedule a complimentary 20-minute chat at:lucidumascoaching.comConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
I had the absolute joy of talking with my friend, Valerie Tabor Smith — one of the most published children’s photographers in the world and a pro at art licensing.Valerie’s career is fascinating. She began in wedding photography, discovered her love for babies and children, and eventually built an international licensing business with her images appearing on greeting cards, calendars, and products around the globe. Her work has even been displayed at EPCOT, and she received the prestigious Steuben Trophy from Kodak.But what I love most about this conversation isn’t just the accolades — it’s Valerie’s honesty about reinvention, rejection, persistence, and staying true to your creative heart.We talk about how she moved from black and white hand-tinted portraits into color work, how a calendar company first “discovered” her images, and what photographers today can learn about breaking into commercial and licensing markets.Valerie shared so much, including • How she broke into art licensing (and handled rejection) • The evolving world of greeting cards, calendars, and product design • Why following your passion is still the smartest business strategy We also talk about balancing creativity with family life, how the industry has shifted for women photographers, and the incredible opportunities that still exist in commercial photography for those willing to pursue them.This episode is part inspiration, part history lesson, and part encouragement to trust your artistic voice.And as always, I’m cheering you on as you build a business that is not only profitable… but deeply aligned with who you are.To connect with her valeriesviews1@gmail.comhttps://www.valerietaborsmith.com/Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
I can hardly believe this is episode 350. What a gift this podcast has been — listened to in over 110 countries — and I’m so grateful you’re here.In this solo episode, I’m diving into one of my favorite topics: posing people in a way that captures not just how they look… but who they are.Because for me, portrait photography has never been about perfection. It’s about revealing that inner light. The story. The soul. And yes — we can absolutely use technique to help that happen.I share practical, real-world posing tips you can use immediately, whether you’re photographing one person, a couple, or a full family.In this episode, I cover:• Why I love using a tripod (hint: connection improves instantly)• How authentic expressions come from the eyes — and why “cheese” doesn’t work• My go-to lens choices and why 100mm is magic for portraits• Simple posing foundations like C-curves, S-curves, and the “Hollywood Walk” for familiesWe talk about flattering body positioning, soft language that guides instead of commands, and how to analyze faces so you can pose people intentionally instead of guessing.If you’ve ever felt unsure directing clients, this episode will give you a simple structure and more confidence behind the camera.And if you’d like more support, I’d love to connect. Subscribe on YouTube for more tips, or reach out for a complimentary 20-minute chat. I’m here to help you thrive — not just creatively, but profitably too.Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
Okay, I need to strongly suggest going to my guest’s website thewaysofthedog.com to see her amazing photography. Jen Hillenga is creating some of the most beautiful, soulful pet photography in New York City, and I’m completely obsessed with her work. And she shares how she has created both wonderful images and a highly profitable business.Jen is a world-renowned portrait photographer, designer, and photography educator with over 25 years of experience. She’s a PPA Master Craftsman and longtime WPPI print judge who reinvented her career into a wildly successful pet photography business built around joy, simplicity, and dogs.In this episode, we talk about pivoting your career, building a profitable business model, and designing a photography life that actually feels good.We cover:How Jen built a pet photography brand in NYCReinventing yourself at any stage of your careerPricing, value, and knowing your numbersPhotographing dogs in a way that captures feeling Part inspiration, part business strategy, and a whole lot of dog love. Perfect if you’re craving a fresh direction in your photography.Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
You are going to LOVE “The Queen of Sassy”, Marisa Balletti-Lavoie — A PPA Master Photographer, branding coach, and evangelist for finding your own voice and style. We have a really fun and honest conversation about confidence, and how to show up as your unique self in business.Marisa shares her journey from retail and retouching to photography and coaching, and how she learned to stop playing small and start leaning into her real personality. We talk about what it actually means to be “sassy” (hint: it’s confidence, not attitude), why women are often told to tone it down, and how that mindset shows up in our branding.It’s a mix of laughs, real talk, and practical ideas you can use right away. In this episode, we cover:How to uncover your true brand words (and ditch the generic ones)Using vision boards and identity mapping to clarify your messageWhy Google reviews might be your most powerful marketing tool If you’ve ever felt like you needed to shrink, soften, or filter yourself to fit in, this episode is your reminder that your personality is the brand — and that’s exactly what the right clients are looking for.Get in touch with her at marisa@sassymouth.netSassy Mouth on Facebook@sassymouthphoto on InstagramConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
This episode is all about Color…the science, emotional responses, and even how to use it in our art and in branding.I had the most interesting chat with J. Nichole Smith — or Nic — about why color affects how people feel about your work, why it matters more than you think, and how leaning into joy and self-expression can make your brand stronger.Nic knows her stuff. As a marketing insider, color psychology expert, and former photographer who’s spent over 20 years helping creative entrepreneurs understand how color shapes emotion, connection, and the way people experience their brands. She’s brilliant, grounded, and brings so much heart to everything she teaches. You are going to learn about…How color psychology influences trust and buying decisionsWhy photographers shouldn’t play it safe with their brandFinding a visual style that feels like youThoughts about Pantone’s color of the year and why is controversial and a disappointment Nic is also the host of the Joy First Podcast, where she shares conversations about purpose, creativity, and building a life and business that actually feel good. Connect with Nic:Website & community: Joyfirstworld.comPodcast: Joy FirstColor personality quiz: go.jnicholesmith.com/quizConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
I’m so excited to share an episode with you I wish I could have listened to her during my 12 year wedding business.I sat down with the incredibly talented Alicia Parks to talk about something we don’t discuss nearly enough in photography: how to stay calm, energized, and grounded on high-pressure wedding days.Alicia made the leap from corporate America into photography, and she’s built an amazing career by pairing beautiful work with a strong mindset and wellness practices. She is one of those people who brings a calm, steady energy into every room — and every wedding day.Alicia is a California-based wedding photographer whose work has been featured in California Wedding Day and Vogue. She was also named Northern California’s Best Wedding Photographer by California Wedding Day Magazine, and she just landed her very first magazine cover, which hits Barnes & Noble this spring (and yes, she still blushes when she says it out loud).She’s also a certified yoga instructor, which shows up in the way she approaches both life and photography.She shares a six simple habits she swears by on the wedding day to show up relaxed and ready, including showing up early — give yourself time to decompress, hydrating all day, and a stretching routine after the event.In this episode, we go deep into:• How Alicia stays calm and focused during long, intense wedding days• Why mindset and body care matter just as much as gear and technique• How yoga and mindfulness have changed the way she shows up for clients• Simple ways to help your couples feel relaxed and supportedIf you shoot weddings or portraits or any other type of photography that takes energy and focus, I.E. want a career that feels good as well as successful, I think you’re going to love this conversation.Connect with Alicia at Info@aliciaparksphotography.comwww.aliciaparksphotography.comand snag her free gift here…a wellness program for wedding professionals. https://wispy-fire-22181.myflodesk.com/m1huiqb3jtConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
This is such an important question I get all the time….When do I tell people my pricing — and how much should I say?If you’ve ever felt awkward, pressured, or unsure when someone asks, “How much do you charge?”, you’re not alone. So I decided to share a lot of my thoughts and strategies with you in this solo episode.I talk about why leading with price too soon can cost you wonderful clients, how your business model should guide your pricing strategy, and how to talk about money with more confidence and ease.I walk through how I personally handle pricing on the phone and by email, why I don’t list my prices publicly, and how I invite clients into an experience instead of a simple transaction. I also share a simple way to think about pricing based on your income goals and the kind of clients you want to serve.Along the way, I share a favorite analogy, a mindset shift around value, and why stretching a client’s budget — when done thoughtfully and with integrity — can actually help them love what they purchase even more. Listen for:Why answering pricing questions too early can lose great clientsWhen it does (and doesn’t) make sense to put pricing on your websiteA simple script for confident, comfortable pricing conversationsHow to think about pricing based on your goals and business model If pricing feels confusing or uncomfortable, I hope this episode helps you see there’s no single “right” answer — just the right strategy for your business.And remember: people don’t just buy photography. They buy the experience, the relationship, and how it makes them feel.Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
Okay photographers — if you love people, love creating, and would also really like to make good money doing it, this one’s for you.This is a new interview with the amazing Chip Dizard. We had such a great conversation a few years ago that I reposted it, and everyone loved it so much I knew I had to have him back.Chip is a photographer and entrepreneur who’s amazing at helping creatives build and market event and headshot photography businesses in ways that actually feel good — not salesy, not icky, and not overwhelming.He’s fun, high-energy, super generous with what he knows, and really good at showing you how to turn relationships into a steady, sustainable business.We talk about:How to build and market events and headshot photography without burning outHow to make more money while still being a good humanSimple ways to stay connected with past clients so they keep coming backHow to work with planners and partners without feeling awkwardIf you’ve ever thought, “I just want a business that works and still feels like me,” you’re going to love this one.FREE GIFT https://content.chipdizard.com/free-event-planner-course-photographerswww.chipdizard.com to check out all his goodnessConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
Do you want to sell your travel or scenic photography?You are not alone. So many have this desire, and so few are actually successful and profitable in selling their personal work.My guest is an incredible PPA Master Photographer, an ASP Fellow, and a highly profitable photographer, both with his studio work and his gorgeous, award-winning travel and nature photography. And he shares lots of tips for selling prints and creating books that you can use!Dennis has been a professional photographer for over 50 years, and he’s one of those people who has grown and evolved with the industry — from film to digital, from studio and boudoir work into fine art landscapes and teaching around the world.In this episode, we talk about:Dennis’s self-published book “The Art of Yellowstone” — a black and white winter collection with artist statements — and how he approached creating itHis simple framework for making a photography book: start with a clear desire, strong imagery with a story, get support for layout and production, and use good resources and referralsHow he uses the book as a business and branding tool — not just for income, but for credibility, connection, and print salesPractical tips for selling scenic work, including pricing with confidence, offering finished framed art, and reminding viewers that prints are available for purchaseThis is a fun and informative conversation. So....if you’re thinking about creating a book, selling personal work, or building a photography career that has both heart and longevity.PS...he hosts trips to wonderful places, and you can find out more on his website or just email him at dennishammonphotography@gmail.com or https://hammon.photographyConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
Is it time for you to give back? Is your heart calling you to use your talents to help others?My guest, Amina Mohamed, is here to talk about her non-profit called “Cameras for Girls” and her efforts to bring the art of photography and photojournalism to young women across Africa who likely would not otherwise have had the opportunity to explore it. In 2018, she started an initiative with a mission to teach photography and business skills to marginalized females across Africa who endeavor to become journalists. She gives each of them a camera and and has taught 129 in Uganda and has 50 enrolled for 2026, 25 in Tanzania with 10 enrolled, and 80% of our students have paid work within 6 months of completing our program!! And Cameras for Girls is launching in Kenya in 2026. Truly amazing.In addition to her volunteer efforts, Amina has spent fifteen years exploring her passion for photography while working in film and television as a producer and production manager on numerous movies and documentaries. Amina share tips onabout how to proceed when you are called to give back, and want to make the world a better place using your photography. Here are some of her tips for getting started: Figure out what you are talented atAnd which segment of society you want to helpDon’t worry about registering for any “official” programsLook for places to volunteer (but be careful about “voluntourism”)Listen now to hear Amina’s amazing story and find out more about tapping into your inner volunteer!And connect with Amina at:@CamerasForGirlsamina@camerasforgirls.orgwww.camerasforgirls.orgConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
Hey friend. Thought I would do something different since this is dropping on Christmas Eve day.I’m sharing a few of my own holiday memories, just to share more about me personally. In thinking of stories to tell you, I realized how many memories are in my mental vault because there are photographs that anchored them to my experiences and emotions around them. Some things I do remember clearly… and some things I only remember because there’s a photo that proves it happened.I share about my family and our holiday traditions, old photos, and why images matter more this time of year. Not in a big, dramatic way—just in the real-life way that sneaks up on you.And what life as a wedding and portrait photographer (for 40 years) has been like during the busiest time of year…at least for me. It was so stressful, and yet a joy to be gifting people their memories.I also share a few practical thoughts for photographers during the holidays—how to handle the season with clients, set expectations, and still enjoy your own life while you’re running a business.That’s it. Just some thoughts and memories and a hope it makes you smile, maybe remember something you’d forgotten, and feel a little more grounded going into the holidays.Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
Today on The Profitable Photographer, I’m hanging out with Jason Guy, and super successful boudoir photographer based in Sonoma, California.He has spent the last ten years photographing women in a way that’s honest, empowering, and beautifully lit. He says his job is showing clients what they look like from their best angles—but what I loved is hearing how his clients ended up changing him. From health to aging, they taught him to see bodies (including his own) with a lot more respect and curiosity.This was one of those easy, meaningful conversations—the kind where you’re talking shop, but you’re also talking about life.In this episode, we talk about:How he found his way into photography and why boudoir became both his creative playground and a smart business moveWhat years of photographing women taught him about confidence, bodies, health, and aging (spoiler: it’s not about perfection)Why boudoir is the ultimate training ground for posing, lighting, and sculpting the body in flattering, human waysHow he helps clients relax fast and feel comfortable, seen, and even excited once the camera comes outA Gift for You:He’s sharing his Boudoir Guide, originally created for clients but now loved by photographers too—full of practical tips and insight: https://jgboudoir.com/boudoir-guide/Want to Connect?The best way to reach him is through his contact page: https://jgboudoir.com/contact/If you photograph people—and especially women—this episode is a great reminder that when you lead with care, curiosity, and a little humor, both your work and your business get better.Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
I have always wanted to sit down with someone that knows all about Facebook/ Meta ads…how to do them, the cost, and the benefits. And my guest today knows all about this. I spent time talking (actually grilling) Brennan Haelig, the founder of Jumpstart ROI—an agency managing millions in ad spend and known for helping creatives (especially photographers) grow with simple, practical marketing. He even give us the investment potential, both from the cost of the ad to what to expect to pay a pro to help us.Brennan shares journey from losing everything to building a thriving company gives him a grounded, real-world perspective that I think you will be inspired by. And how he ended up understanding the needs of photographers when marketing to potential clients.What to Listen ForThe surprisingly simple, but very effective, ad offer photographers are getting great results fromThe one targeting shift that makes Meta ads actually workWhy “boosting” isn’t all bad—and when to use itThe mindset change that can transform your relationship with marketingHis parting thought is to just challenge your limiting beliefs around digital marketing and around paid advertising. Just because you tried it once and it didn’t work doesn’t mean it can’t be a game changer with a few tweaks.Connect with Brennanbrennan@jumpstartroi.comwww.jumpstartroi.com/photographyConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
After you listen to this amazing conversation with Lori and me sharing all about psychology-based sales strategies... then run, don't walk, and sign up for her "Vision Forward Summit" going on now through Dec 14th, which features 25+ top educators teaching the business of photography. www.visionforwardsummit.com/ Each day, two photographers share their wisdom about running a successful photography business, and it is an amazing lineup.So, who is my wonderful friend Lori Unruh Poole? A master photographer and co-founder of Photo Insight. She is a boudoir photographer and educator, known for her no-fluff, psychology-backed approach to helping photographers build profitable, sustainable businesses.In this episode, we cover:How to make sales feel fun instead of pushySimple, psychology-based tools to reduce overwhelmHow to build real confidence and stop comparing yourselfClear steps for better pricing, sales, and speaking to your ideal clientTo learn more about Lori: https://myphotoinsight.com/And check out my lucidumascoaching.com website for info about me.Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
Hi friends, it’s Luci.After more than 200 conversations with photographers and educators, I’ve collected a treasure chest of “aha” moments—some that made me laugh, some that surprised me, and some that completely changed how I look at this crazy, wonderful business.In this episode, I’m sharing ten of the best lessons. Here’s a little sneak peek:Relationships really are the secret sauce. The photographers thriving year after year all remind me that genuine connection—not algorithms—is what keeps our businesses strong.Andrew Hiorth gave me a plot twist. I always thought hiring other photographers would pull me away from my own creativity… until he showed me how it can actually give you more time to play, explore, and create for you.Olesha Haskett opened my eyes even wider. From textured hair and makeup to posing curves to avoiding “washout” in retouching, she shares what every photographer needs to know to beautifully photograph Black women.And yes… pet photography really can be a high-end goldmine. I suspected it long ago, and my guests have confirmed it again and again. That’s just a taste—wait until you hear the rest.Want a freebie? Go to Lucidumascoaching.com and download my ebook on MarketingConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
This week, my conversation is about two topics…how to get fabulous portrait and weddings, and how to be more inclusive of people with different backgrounds, orientations, and such.The amazing Chip Dizárd is my guess and is a photographer, educator, tech-enthusiast, and someone who builds business with purpose, passion, and people at the center.Chip shares how a Christmas gift — an Atari 2600 — set him on a path of creativity and connection that eventually led to a thriving photography brand. Today, he’s known not only for great images but for championing diversity and inclusion in the wedding and event industry.We talk about:Moving beyond “friends and family” clients and building real momentumAttracting ideal clients by focusing on the best and letting go of the restThe 3 key questions to help define your niche and guide your successWhy representation matters — and how to make sure clients feel truly seen and welcomedChip reminds us that success is like a train — slow at first… then unforgettable once it picks up steam. Stay consistent. Treat people right. And watch the magic happen.Connect with Chip: https://chipdizard.comLearn + grow with Luci: https://lucidumascoaching.comConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.
My guest this week, Rob Brown, is super smart and nice and knows how to get things done(and be very profitable) by being efficient and organized. He is such a great example of what can happen when passion meets process. What started as a hobby has grown into a thriving six-figure business photographing schools, sports teams, and communities across Mississippi. Since 2020, Rob has built a studio that makes serves his community and his family as well.Rob and I had a great conversation about volume photography—what it really takes to make it work, how to stay organized, and why this type of photography can be both fun and incredibly rewarding.In this episode, you’ll learn about:• How to create smooth systems that make large-scale jobs run easily and profitably• What efficiency really means and how to spot and fix the weak points in your process• Why volume photography can be one of the most stable and scalable business models out there• The mindset and long-term vision it takes to grow something truly successfulThis conversation is full of practical wisdom and inspiration for photographers ready to work smarter, not harder—and maybe even fall in love with volume photography.Connect with Rob:• Website• Facebook• InstagramConnect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas: Website Email: luci@lucidumas.comInstagram FacebookYouTubeNew episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.



