The Rhea Whitney Podcast

5 Mistakes Photographers Make That Keep Them Stuck (and How to Fix Them) In this episode Rhea breaks down the five most common mistakes experienced photographers make that keep them stuck in their business. Drawing from over a decade of photography and coaching experience, she emphasizes that success isn’t just about talent behind the camera, it’s equally about mindset, pricing strategy, marketing consistency, and business infrastructure. She urges photographers to recognize where they are holding themselves back and to adopt a CEO mindset to create sustainable profit and long-term growth. Rhea underscores the importance of valuing your expertise, pricing based on data, not fear, and building systems and workflows that support growth. She challenges listeners to examine their beliefs, stop DIY-ing everything, and show up consistently in their marketing. The theme throughout is empowerment: when photographers embrace confidence, structure, and strategic support, they unlock capacity for more income, better clients, and long-term success.   What You Will Learn Why underpricing and avoiding premium packages keeps photographers stuck How shifting from “creative mode” to CEO mode changes your results The importance of consistent marketing and nurturing your audience Why DIY-ing everything slows business growth and creates burnout How systems, workflows, and structure create confidence and scalability The role mindset plays in pricing, visibility, and sales success   Standout Quotes “Underpricing keeps you feeling overwhelmed, broke, not profitable, and undervalued.” (~10:15) “You can’t grow a sustainable photography business if you’re only focused on the art—you have to embrace CEO mode.” (~20:48) “Laid-back marketing and promotion is going to create laid-back money and sales in your business.” (~32:05) “If five to ten premium clients came to you today ready to say yes—would you be ready?” (~47:10)   Stay Connected  Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography

Creating Premium Offers that Sell In this episode Rhea emphasizes the steep learning curve photographers face when transitioning from simply taking pictures to running a full-fledged business. Rhea's mission is to empower photographers to become confident business owners who can create premium-priced offers that truly sell. She outlines the mindset and strategic foundation needed to move beyond creative passion and step into intentional business development. She breaks down five pillars to building premium photography offers: organized systems, consistency in artistic style, strong vendor relationships, mastery of lighting, and consistency in marketing. From using client management systems like HoneyBook to mastering off-camera flash, Offering practical and actionable insights to elevate a photographer’s professionalism and client experience. Her core message: becoming a successful photographer means mastering both artistry and business, staying consistent, and showing up with intention and strategy every day.   What You Will Learn: The mindset shift from creative to business owner and why it’s essential. How to build an organized backend using tools like HoneyBook or CloudSpot. Why consistency in your photographic style establishes trust and brand identity. How vendor connections—especially with makeup artists—can expand your reach. The importance of mastering light and flash to shoot confidently in any environment. Why consistency in marketing and visibility is critical for long-term business success.   Standout Quotes: “Just because you’re a great photographer doesn’t mean you’re a great business owner.” — (10:42) “Selling is service—you’re doing others a service by selling your services.” — (38:19) “If you’re inconsistent in sales, you’re likely inconsistent in visibility.” — (1:05:10) “Success as a creative is not just about talent—it’s about strategy, mindset, and taking action.” — (1:09:35)   Stay Connected  Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/

 Announcements vs. Marketing This week Rhea dives into the critical distinction between announcements and marketing for photographers. She emphasizes that simply announcing an offer or posting once or twice on social media isn’t true marketing. Real marketing, she explains, is an ongoing, strategic engine fueled by consistency, repetition, and connection. Ray encourages photographers to embrace their role as business owners, not just creatives, and to approach marketing as an essential skill for growth and long-term success. Rhea introduces the “Elevate Marketing Formula,” which combines three key components: You, the CEO, Your Services, and Your Target Audience. By consistently sharing stories, educating clients, and calling out the right audience, photographers can position themselves as authorities in their niche. Rhea also highlights the importance of building personal connections, staying consistent across platforms, and developing a full marketing ecosystem that nurtures cold, warm, and hot leads. Her message: announcements may inform, but marketing transforms.   What You Will Learn: The difference between making announcements and implementing a marketing strategy. Why consistency and repetition are essential for building brand authority. How to apply Ray’s Elevate Marketing Formula (You + Your Services + Your Target Audience). The importance of nurturing cold, warm, and hot audiences differently. How personal connection and storytelling strengthen your marketing. Practical examples for promoting offers like fall or holiday mini sessions effectively.   Standout Quotes: “Making an announcement is not enough.” — (14:32) “Repetition is what builds expertise and authority.” — (15:18) “Just because you’re a great photographer doesn’t mean you’ll have a great business.” — (18:05) “Selling is service—when done from the right heart posture, it’s how you help people.” — (53:47)   Stay Connected  Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/

How to Align Your Energy for Business Success with Emily Aarons In this intimate and empowering podcast episode, Rhea Whitney sits down with energy healer and spiritual teacher Emily Aarons to unpack the deep intersection between spirituality, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. The two women reflect on their childhood passions—Emily’s early interest in spirituality and Rhea's lifelong love of photography—and how those early inclinations evolved into the careers they have today. Both women share candid stories of their beginnings, family resistance, self-doubt, and the transformative power of trusting themselves, emphasizing the spiritual and emotional work required to truly thrive as entrepreneurs. Emily talks about moving her healing practice online and how that leap of faith multiplied her business success while helping thousands virtually. The conversation digs into how mindset, energy, and embodiment play vital roles in not only selling authentically but also in sustaining personal fulfillment. Emily introduces the concept of the “Energetic Advantage,” a three-part framework—energy, embodiment, and execution—that helps entrepreneurs align their internal state with their outward action. Rhea opens up about the challenges of being seen, the emotional weight of coaching, and the importance of showing up wholeheartedly for clients. Together, they highlight the importance of self-awareness, reconnecting to your childhood passions, embracing your spiritual gifts, and shedding limiting beliefs to walk confidently in purpose and impact.   What You Will Learn: How childhood passions are powerful clues to your life’s calling and business path. The role of energy and embodiment in business growth and authentic selling. How to navigate self-doubt, visibility fears, and family resistance with inner healing. The three components of the “Energetic Advantage”: energy, embodiment, and execution. Why spiritual tools like meditation and energy healing can fuel business clarity and calm. Practical mindset shifts for newer entrepreneurs struggling with consistency and confidence.   Standout Quotes: “You could be filling stadiums, and they still wouldn’t get it.” — Emily Aarons, 50:15 “We all have some limiting thought… that is really keeping us from our best lives.” — Rhea Whitney, 1:00:25 “You're holding it hostage inside of you. Meanwhile, there are people suffering in silence who need you. Not someone like you—you.” — Emily Aarons, 1:08:40 “Take yourself back to the times that you’ve changed a client’s life… that’s your proof.” — Rhea Whitney, 1:10:10   Stay Connected with Emily Website: https://emilyaarons.com/Instagram: @emilyaarons   Stay Connected  Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography

  In this episode, Rhea dives into the concept of a marketing ecosystem, what it actually means, how content plays a vital role, and why relying on just one platform is limiting your business growth. She breaks down the different moving parts of a well-rounded visibility strategy and challenges the common narrative that “social media doesn’t work.” Instead of thinking in absolutes, Rhea urges creatives to take a step back and assess where their ideal clients actually are and how they prefer to engage with brands and businesses. This conversation is a reality check for photographers and creatives who feel stuck in their marketing. Rhea offers practical exercises (like the ecosystem spider map!) and mindset shifts that move you from passive scrolling to intentional, aligned action. Whether you're resisting social media or leaning too heavily on one tool, this episode will help you rethink your approach and step into greater consistency, clarity, and client connection. What You Will Learn: What a marketing ecosystem actually is—and why you need one How to think strategically about platform selection based on your audience Why organic marketing should come before you spend on ads How content activates your ecosystem and attracts leads The difference between cold, warm, and hot audiences—and how to create for each Why vanity metrics don’t matter—and what does Standout Quotes: "Social media is just one leg of the ecosystem—not the whole body." (4:06) "We're not running our business based on feelings. We're running our business based on facts and metrics." (10:25) "Content is the action of putting the ecosystem to work." (6:11) "You want bigger things? You have to show up in a bigger way." (12:01) Stay Connected  Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography

In this exciting 50th episode, we dive into everything you need to know about the upcoming Photography Summer School: Content Edition. After the success of last year's program, this year’s summer school is expanded to six weeks and fully focused on helping photographers become confident and strategic content creators. With marketing and digital media evolving rapidly in 2025, this edition is built to keep you ahead of the curve—arming you with systems, strategies, and support to increase visibility, generate leads, and have more fun with content. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or growing your creative business, this episode breaks down exactly what to expect from this hands-on program. You'll not only learn how to develop and batch your content effectively—you’ll also explore audience clarity, content strategy, and the power of repetition and analytics. Rhea shares why this summer’s experience is a game changer and invites listeners into a dynamic learning environment that’s all about transformation, momentum, and sustainable growth. What You Will Learn: Why content creation in 2025 requires a new mindset and strategy The key elements of the “Know and Show” content framework How to identify and speak directly to your ideal audience (and avatars) Strategic content types for cold, warm, and hot audiences The power of batching content—tools, prompts, and workflow tips How to read your content metrics and use analytics to guide your next move Standout Quotes: “The frequency of content has really upped… Gone are the days where you could post two or three times a week and reach your people.” — (8:29) “Photographers are master content creators… You hold so much power, but you're overthinking it.” — (8:09) “The better I get, the more I can pour back into my clients. It’s a trickle-down effect with huge returns.” — (3:00) “Once you understand the ‘Know and Show’ framework, you’ll never run out of content ideas again.” — (13:35) 👉 Ready to join Photography Summer School?Learn More and Enroll in Photography Summer School Content Edition HERE! We start July 9th! 💥 Live Event Alert: Want to join Rhea in Houston this November for an all-day, in-person workshop with shooting, marketing, and mindset sessions? DM “waitlist” to get first dibs on seats! Stay Connected   Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography

Breaking the Rules of Photography with Sandra Coan  In this episode, Rhea sits down with award-winning photographer, educator, and best-selling author Sandra Coan to talk about her inspiring journey from kindergarten teacher to full-time photographer and industry leader. The two hit it off immediately after meeting at Imaging USA, and this episode captures the warmth, wisdom, and shared love they both bring to the world of photography and coaching. Sandra opens up about launching her photography career in the early 2000s, how she pioneered maternity portraiture before it was even "a thing," and why she still shoots film in a digital era. They also dive deep into hybrid workflows, off-camera lighting, and the rise of AI tools like Imagen AI that are transforming the business of photography. Whether you're a new photographer or a seasoned creative, this episode will inspire you to be bold, embrace technology, and honor your craft.   What You’ll Learn: [2:14] Sandra’s origin story: From food stamps to full-time photographer [4:56] How she built a business before maternity photography was mainstream [6:33] Transitioning from film to digital — and why she hated it at first [7:08] Why she went back to film and how she maintains a hybrid workflow [8:06] Using strobes to recreate natural light and save time editing [8:39] How Imagen AI helps Sandra replicate her film workflow with digital [9:46] Their shared love for AI tools and why photographers shouldn’t fear them   Standout Quotes [3:02] “Photography was something I always did on the side... I didn’t even know it could be a career.” — Sandra Coan [4:17] “It just takes bold, courageous moves to market yourself. So many photographers are just scared.” — Rhea [9:03] “Now I just cull, send it through Imagen AI, and it even straightens the photos for me.” — Sandra Coan   Stay Connected with Sandra Website: sandracoan.comInstagram: @sandracoan   Stay Connected with Rhea Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography

  The Pivot After Burnout with Angela of Social Templates Co. In today’s episode, Rhea is joined by Angela of Social Templates Co., a creative entrepreneur who made a bold pivot after burnout. Angela shares how she started her photography business at 19, balanced motherhood, and ran her creative business full-time—until the hustle caught up with her. She opens up about hitting a wall, selling everything, and walking away to prioritize rest, healing, and alignment. From that pause came a completely new business, Social Templates Co., rooted in ease and intention. This is a powerful conversation for any creative who has ever felt the weight of burnout and wondered what it would look like to choose a different way.   What You Will Learn: [00:26] How Angela started her business at 19 as a photographer [02:22] Balancing motherhood and full-time creative work [03:25] The slow creep of burnout and what it looked like in real life [05:46] Why Angela sold everything and stepped away [06:58] The quiet season and what healing actually looked like [09:34] Building Social Templates Co. from a rested place [11:15] Learning to let things be easy [13:03] What alignment looks like now [16:30] Advice for creatives navigating burnout or overwhelm   Standout Quotes: “I was making six figures, booked out, and burnt out. But from the outside, it looked like success.” – Angela [07:15] “There’s so much freedom on the other side of choosing rest over hustle.” – Angela [15:24] “I had to grieve the version of myself I thought I needed to be to be successful.” – Angela [17:11] “Just because it looks good doesn’t mean it feels good—or that it’s sustainable.” – Rhea [08:33] “There’s power in giving yourself permission to start over.” – Rhea [22:05]   Connect with Angela: Follow her on Instagram: @socialtemplates.co Shop her templates: www.socialtemplates.co    Stay Connected with Rhea Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography

10 lessons I’ve learned in the last 10 years as a FT business Owner Feeling unseen or overwhelmed while building your creative business? You’re not alone. The journey of entrepreneurship—especially as a Black woman creative—is full of silent battles and behind-the-scenes moments that rarely get shared. When you're the go-to person, the visionary, the strong one, where do you go when it gets hard? This podcast was born from that question—and from a deep desire to create the space Rhea wished she had a long time ago. In today’s episode, Rhea gets honest about why she almost didn’t launch this podcast, the struggles behind the scenes that no one talks about, and how she plans to use this platform to tell the truth about what it really takes to build something meaningful and sustainable as a creative entrepreneur.   What You Will Learn: [00:01] Intro and what this podcast is all about [00:57] Why Ray almost didn’t launch this podcast [03:28] The problem with the “highlight reel” version of entrepreneurship [05:22] The gap Ray saw in the business podcast space [08:36] Who this podcast is really for and how it will serve you [11:20] What to expect from upcoming episodes [13:00] Final thoughts and wrap up   Standout Quotes: “I wanted to hear from the person still in it—not the person who was already out.” – Rhea [04:13] “This podcast is for the creative entrepreneur, the visionary, the leader who’s done things right—and still got knocked down.” – Rhea [08:49] “We can’t market our way out of our humanity. I want this podcast to hold both the real and the remarkable.” – Rhea [05:55]   Stay Connected   Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography

Why You Need A CRM System Now Feeling disorganized in your business? A CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system can be the game-changer you need to bring structure, clarity, and professionalism to your workflow. Whether you're juggling multiple clients, trying to keep track of conversations, or managing scattered documents, a CRM helps you centralize everything in one place. It makes it easier to track leads, follow up efficiently, streamline communication, and even get paid faster. With the right CRM, you’re not just staying organized — you’re setting your business up to scale, serve better, and operate like a pro. In today’s episode, Rhea breaks down what a CRM is, how it can help you stay organized when managing multiple clients, and why now is the best time to integrate one into your workflow. From tracking client documents to streamlining communication and payments, your CRM can become the hub of your business backend. What You Will Learn: [00:01] Intro and what's in for you in today's show [01:26] What a CRM is and how it helps when working with multiple clients [02:35] The CRM system Rhea uses and why it works   [03:21] The benefits of using a CRM to stay organized in your business [07:31] How to use HoneyBook and other CRM systems  [09:09] Key takeaways from today’s conversation [10:11] Wrap up and end of the show    Standout Quotes: “CRM is the hub for all things, it makes our job so much easier and helps us keep our business organized.” - Rhea [04:46] “You want to stay ready so that you don't have to get ready.”- Rhea [09:33] “Get organized,  get your CRM, and let that be the hub for where you're keeping track of clients, documents, and conversations, make it easy for people to pay you, and uplevel your backend.”- Rhea [09:33] Stay Connected   Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography

How to Choose the Right Coach or Mentor for your Business The truth about finding the right coach for your business? It’s not about chasing the biggest name or the flashiest results. It’s about alignment. Clarity. And finding someone who truly understands the season of business you’re in — and knows how to help you navigate what’s next. For years, Rhea built her photography business from the ground up, learning through trial and error, investing in coaches (some who were wildly helpful and others who... not so much), and eventually scaling to six figures and beyond. Now, as a creative business coach herself, Rhea is pulling back the curtain on what it actually takes to find the right mentor that can help you get out of your own way, increase your income, and build a business that feels aligned and sustainable. In today’s episode, Rhea is sharing the exact framework she uses to choose the right coach for each season of growth — and how to avoid the overpriced programs and empty promises that leave so many creatives feeling stuck and frustrated. If you're ready to make more aligned investments, get the support you actually need, and finally start seeing results in your business, this conversation is for you.   What You Will Learn: (0:27) Ray's journey from photography hobbyist to full-time entrepreneur (1:33) How getting fired twice led to her full-time photography business (2:38) The emotional rollercoaster of investing in coaches—good and bad (4:49) The importance of clarity in what you want to work on with a coach (5:51) Key areas photographers often need coaching in: marketing, posing, lighting, and business development (7:41) How different seasons of business growth require different types of coaches (10:17) How Ray helps photographers scale to six figures and beyond   Standout Quotes: "I've had amazing coaches. I've had subpar coaches. I've had coach hurt. But all of it taught me something." (3:28) "Get clear on what you want to work on. You can't work on everything at once. Master one thing and then move on." (5:17) "I didn't want to be the Walmart of photography. I wanted to be the Nordstrom—good quality and worth the investment." (7:52) "Great coaches have absolutely changed my life. And now I get to be that for other photographers." (4:19) "Elevate is about creating consistent high four to five-figure months and scaling to six figures and beyond." (10:22)   Ready to Turn Pro? Join From Hobbyist to Pro 2.0, kicking off April 2nd, for a 5-week live coaching experience where you'll learn:✅ Strategic marketing✅ Consistent content creation✅ Pricing with confidence✅ Client management systems✅ Building a sustainable business model Spots are limited. Secure yours today here: https://fhtp.rheawhitney.com/   Stay Connected   Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography

How to Know if You’re Ready to Go “Pro” 2024 was the year you honed your craft, built your portfolio, and gained confidence behind the camera. But 2025? This is the year you finally go pro. The demand for creative photographers is higher than ever — but talent alone won’t get you booked out and paid your worth. The difference between staying stuck as a “hidden gem” and becoming a fully booked, full-time photographer? Mastering the business side of things. In this episode, Rhea breaks down the key signs that you're ready to take that leap and introduces her signature program, From Hobbyist to Pro 2.0 — a proven roadmap to help you build a profitable, sustainable photography business in 2025. Inside the program, Rhea walks you through everything you didn't learn when you first picked up your camera — from pricing your work confidently, building systems that attract dream clients, and creating a marketing strategy that keeps your calendar booked out year-round. If you're ready to stop second-guessing your prices, start attracting high-quality clients, and finally build a business that gives you both creative freedom and financial stability — this episode is for you.   What You Will Learn: (2:15) The four key signs you're ready to go pro in your photography business. (2:37) How to attract the right clients and build a business you're proud of. (3:57) How to price your services strategically and build momentum. (4:47) The importance of organization, systems, and contracts. (6:58) What it takes to go full-time and make your photography business your main source of income. (8:45) The mindset shift from being "just a photographer" to becoming a true business owner and CEO.   Standout Quotes: "If you're ready to stop saying yes to everything and start attracting your dream clients, it's time to focus on the business side of things." (2:50) "Do not make it hard for people to pay you. It's 2025, let’s get this together!" (5:34) "If you want to go full-time in your photography business, you need to start thinking like a business owner, not just a photographer." (7:58) "Invest in yourself and watch the return on investment come back 2X, 5X, even 10X." (10:38)   Ready to Turn Pro? Join From Hobbyist to Pro 2.0, kicking off April 2nd, for a 5-week live coaching experience where you'll learn: ✅ Strategic marketing ✅ Consistent content creation ✅ Pricing with confidence ✅ Client management systems ✅ Building a sustainable business model Spots are limited. Secure yours today here: https://fhtp.rheawhitney.com/ Stay Connected   Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography

Live at Imaging 2025 10 years ago, Rhea picked up a camera with nothing but passion and a dream. Fast forward to 2025, and she's built a thriving wedding and portrait photography business that not only supports her lifestyle but allows her to coach and empower other photographers to do the same. But Rhea's journey wasn’t built on luck — it was built on intention, strategy, and a relentless commitment to mastering both her craft and her business. In today’s episode, recorded live at the CloudSpot booth during Imaging USA 2025 with Raymond Hatfield of the Beginner Photography Podcast, Rhea shares exactly what she would do if she had to start her photography business from scratch today. From pricing strategies and finding your niche to building confidence as a creative entrepreneur, Rhea breaks down the mindset shifts and business moves that have allowed her to scale from hustling for her first clients to becoming a full-time photographer and business coach. If you're ready to take your photography business from “just getting by” to thriving, this episode is your roadmap.   What You Will Learn: (2:28) How Rhea transitioned from shooting everything to finding her niche in wedding photography (3:45) Why working with newly engaged couples sparked her passion for weddings (4:37) How she used Instagram and collaborations to book her first clients (6:02) What Rhea would do differently if she started her business today (7:11) The importance of knowing your cost of doing business for proper pricing (8:40) The biggest piece of business advice Rhea would give to new photographers (9:17) Why legitimizing your business from the start is key to long-term success   Standout Quotes: "Once you master your style, the next thing you have to do is master the business." (3:13) "I love love. And I love working with people in that exciting chapter of their life." (4:04) "I was just working with what I had right at my fingertips and being hungry for it." (5:29) "If I started over, I’d focus heavily on SEO and narrowing my niche from day one." (6:09) "Stop running your business by the seat of your pants. Build something that can support your growth from the start." (9:17)   Stay Connected   Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography

My 2025 Plan 2024 tested our resilience as creative photographers, pushing us to our limits and demanding innovation in the face of uncertainty. But 2025? This is the year that we are shifting from survival to thriving. The seeds of our hard work, persistence, and passion planted in the past are now ready to bear fruit, laying the foundation for a photography business that doesn’t just sustain but flourishes. This isn’t just about taking better photos—it’s about transforming our careers, elevating our lives, and turning our creative talents into profitable, purpose-driven ventures. Now is the time to embrace our gifts, serve our audience with intention, and build a legacy that lasts. In today’s episode, Rhea shares her 2025 plan—a roadmap designed to help you stay focused, take strategic action, and do the work to make this year truly transformative. Whether you're looking to elevate your photography business, refine your skills, or step confidently into your purpose, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you plan and make 2025 your most successful year.   What You Will Learn: [00:01] Intro and why 2024 was a challenging year  [03:08] What Rhea is excited about in 2025 [03:13] The Elevate in-person retreat and why it was an incredible experience [04:09] The updated From Hobbyist to Pro 2.0 program [06:14] A full-day activation In-person workshop in Houston, Texas  [07:23] Group coaching program for professional photographers [09:03] Leading yourself as a leader: Planning, executing, and staying on the course  [10:44] Building up your emotional resilience as an entrepreneur [13:28] Showing up consistently and breaking your own ceilings  [16:56] Wrap up and end of the show    Standout Quotes: “One of the most powerful things we can do as business owners is to continue to make the best decision on how we want to be intentional and strategic about our business.” - Rhea [02:05] “If you want to go from just being a hobbyist to pro, there are certain things, tools, business, and acumen that you need to have.”- Rhea [04:45] “The best leaders are those who know how to lead themselves.”- Rhea [09:33] “A big part of being a successful entrepreneur is building up your emotional resiliency and getting stronger.”- Rhea [11:44]   Stay Connected   Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography

Running a successful photography business goes far beyond capturing beautiful moments; it also requires a solid grasp of your finances to thrive year-round. Working with an accountant can help you sidestep costly tax errors, track your spending, and stay compliant, reducing the risk of audits. In this special episode, we are joined by Keila, the founder of Little Fish Accounting, who brings over 15 years of expertise in accounting and business growth. With a passion for empowering business owners, Keila shares essential strategies for achieving financial success and scaling sustainably. In this episode, Keila highlights key tax insights and financial tips to keep your photography business thriving. She explains the importance of maintaining organized profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and a reliable accounting system. These tools provide a clear view of your business’s profitability and enable you to make informed financial choices for long-term growth. Keila also emphasizes that regular financial organization and analysis reveal how much income truly belongs to you after covering taxes and business expenses. These are crucial insights for any business owner aiming for stability and success. Tune in.   What You Will Learn: [00:01] Episode intro and what we have today with Keila [01:35] A bit about Keila and what she does in the accounting space [03:44] The importance of financial reporting and working with an accountant [06:51] Importance of bookkeeping and its role in the tax process [09:55] Potential red flags that the IRS can come looking for [15:44] Strategies you can use to analyze your business financials [22:28] How mentorship and coaching services should be handled in tax [30:40] Should your IRA contributions come from a personal or business account [33:36] Key takeaways and golden nuggets from Keila [35:51] Best ways you can reach out and connect with Keila [36:14]Ending show    Standout Quotes: “For all the things you can do to support your business in terms of financial education and looking at what you need to do next are tracking and organization.” - Keila [03:45] “All the money that you receive in a business is not yours. Some have to go to expenses, some go to pay taxes, and if you don’t know how much you have, you cannot make next month’s decisions.”- Keila [04:43] “Accordinng to IRS, deductible expenses must meet two conditions. They must be ordinary and necessary.”- Keila [09:56] “Tax payments are not expenses.”- Keila [16:40]   Stay Connected   Rhea Whitney Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography    Keila Hill-Trawick Website: https://www.littlefishaccounting.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keilahilltrawick/

Mastering effective marketing and business skills is often the secret behind a photographer’s success. A great photographer knows how to attract leads, close deals, and build lasting client relationships. Yet, many photographers struggle with the same issues: giving too much to clients who don’t return, feeling lost on how to showcase their work on social media, or battling procrastination and self-doubt. You are not alone if you find yourself overwhelmed with these issues. In this episode of Rhea's one-on-one coaching session with Arelis Solares, she offers guidance on overcoming these challenges to help grow your photography business. A key takeaway from this episode is the importance of a photography pitch deck. This digital presentation highlights your skills, portfolio, and unique styles. A well-crafted pitch deck is designed to make a strong impression on potential clients, showing them exactly why they should work with you. If you have tried everything but have not seen real progress, this episode is packed with actionable insights to take your photography business to the next level. Tune in.   What You Will Learn: [00:01] Live coaching with Arelis Sorales  [04:16] Does  your problems resonate with Areli’s [04:42] How overgiving to her clients negatively has affected her business [06:39] Why having photography packages gives boundaries to your business [13:17] Why do you need to pitch yourself as a photographer, and how [17:54] Do you anticipate what your clients might need?  [19:13] Why do you need a fixed rate and not a price range for your photography packages [24:53] Reasons why people procrastinate and how to handle that [27:33] Never compare yourself with other photographers  [35:58] Handling negative talk from others [37:20] Ending show and calls to action   Standout Quotes: “The most successful photographers have mastered effective marketing and business.” - Rhea [03:53] “When you give your clients a pricing range, they will always end up on the low side always.”- Rhea [19:32] “As a photographer, never compare yourself with other photographers. Other photographers are not your clients. They do not pay for your services nor pay your bills  - Rhea [27:43]   Stay Connected   Rhea Whitney Learn more and Apply for Elevate here: https://elevate.rheawhitney.com/ Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography   Arelis Sorales  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@solaresphotography Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solaresphotography/

Are you a photographer who overthinks every decision, picking up and dropping ideas, only to feel stuck with no real progress? Sometimes, it is not the lack of a good business model, marketing, or network that holds you back but rather the emotional and psychological hurdles in your own mind. If this sounds familiar, this episode with Denisha might be just what you need. Many photographers struggle with making clear decisions because they get trapped in endless thoughts and “what-ifs.” Maybe you have dreamed of scaling your photography business but feel held back by constant doubt. You are not alone. Denisha once faced these same challenges. Before joining the ELEVATE mentorship program, she often found herself overthinking, which prevented her from moving forward in her photography career. Today, she is a thriving photographer specializing in capturing women’s portraits, helping them feel beautiful and empowered. In this episode, she shares her journey, insights, and the transformative impact that the ELEVATE program has had on her growth. Her story proves that, with the right support, it is possible to overcome mental blocks and build a successful photography business. Tune in.   What You Will Learn: [00:01] Episode intro and what we have today with Denisha, an Elevate Member [04:39] How Denisha and Rhea met [07:49] Denisha’s photography business ups and downs before joining ELEVATE [11:14] Significant changes and milestones Denisha has realised as part of ELEVATE [12:45] Denisha’s blend of being a brand designer and photographer [17:19] Why having a coach is one of her valuable pieces of ELEVATE  [18:14] Things she is proud to have done in the past year with ELEVATE [20:32] Tips if you are struggling with setting beautiful editorial lighting [27:00] Is the ELEVATE mentorship program worth it? [31:00] Best ways you can reach out and connect with Denisha [31:24]Ending show   Standout Quotes: “The way you can become better as a business owner is also if you become better as a person.” - Rhea [18:55] “We all must make investments to grow. It all depends on how bad you need it.”- Denisha [27:04]   Stay Connected   Rhea Whitney Learn more about Elevate here: https://elevate.rheawhitney.com/ Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography Connect with Denisha Website: https://www.denishamccauley.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmccauleyphoto/

In this special episode, Rhea shares her insights on the essential differences between being a photographer and a CEO. She discusses key challenges that photographers face, from pricing strategies to financial management, and explains why these are critical to achieving long-term success. Rhea highlights the "Elevate Group Coaching Program," designed to support photographers in leveling up their business skills. By focusing on structured pricing, improved client workflows, and aligning personal branding, photographers can elevate their operations and confidently make the leap from artist to entrepreneur. Rhea emphasizes the importance of building a business foundation rooted in data tracking, understanding your ideal client, and setting sales goals. With her finance background and years of experience in the industry, she brings a unique perspective that combines creativity with financial savvy. For photographers who want to surpass income goals, transition to full-time, and truly scale their business, this episode offers valuable insights to get you started on that path. Tune in to learn more about the Elevate Group Coaching Program and take steps towards becoming a CEO who not only creates but thrives. What You Will Learn: [02:30] Difference between being a photographer and a CEO [05:45] Insights on the "Elevate Group Coaching Program" [09:00] Why pricing structure is crucial for business growth [13:20] Importance of understanding ideal client and target audience [16:50] Data tracking for lead generation and profitability [20:15] Key metrics for setting achievable sales goals [24:40] Strategies for managing business finances and taxes [29:05] Importance of stepping outside your comfort zone as a CEO [32:00] How to apply to the Elevate Group Coaching Program Standout Quotes: "Being a photographer is about capturing moments, but being a CEO means creating a sustainable business around those moments." - Rhea Whitney [02:45] "Creating content that resonates with your ideal client is essential for effective lead generation and long-term growth." - Rhea Whitney [13:20] "Pricing isn’t just about picking a number; it needs to be data-driven and justified to ensure profitability." - Rhea Whitney [20:15] "You have to be willing to step outside of your comfort zone to grow into a confident CEO." - Rhea Whitney [29:05]   Stay Connected Learn more about Elevate here: https://elevate.rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography     

From Passion to Pro with Kimberly Burton Are you ready to turn your passion into a thriving business? The path from pursuing a hobby to building a successful career often requires more than just talent; it takes dedication, a clear vision, and the ability to market your skills effectively. Creating a business with purpose means aligning what you love with the needs of your audience while staying true to your values. It’s about building confidence, developing a strategy, and taking consistent action to reach your goals. With the right support and determination, it’s possible to transform your passion into a meaningful and rewarding professional journey.  In this episode, we talk about how to become a professional photographer and build a business that represents who you are and the vision you have for your business with a special guest, Kim. Kim is a photographer and the owner of Capture The Moment Photography, which specializes in wedding and family photography. Her mission is to capture life’s precious moments through quality and unforgettable photography experiences.    What You Will Learn: [00:01] Intro and a bit about our guest, Kim [01:18] Kim’s backstory and how she bacame a professional photographer  [03:20] How Kim conneccted with Rhea and became part of Elevate  [06:24] Where Kim’s photography business was before Elevate  [10:03] The biggest transformation Kim has experienced in her business in 2024 [12:26] Community: Kim’s favorite part of Elevate  [15:50] Kim’s experience with the Inperson vibes and energy of the community  [19:05] The work and achievements that Kim is most proud of  [22:47] Kim’s advice to someone considering joining Elevate  [26:40] How to build your confidence and create something that you love  [29:05] How to reach out and connect with Kim   Standout Quotes: “Confidence matched with strategy, strategy matched with action and action matched with community is the key to success .” - Rhea [22:27] “If you have any spiritual backing cling on it, God will never have you in a room that is not spaced out for you .”- Kim [22:18] “Don’t waste your money on coaching if you are not in the work; you cannot just pay some money and arrive, you must do the work.”- Kim [23:16] “Selling and marketing is an energetic exchange, someone is  going to be excited to work with you when you’re excited to market what you do.”- Rhea [27:23]   Stay Connected  Learn more and apply for Elevate here: https://elevate.rheawhitney.com/  Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography   Connect with Kim Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capturetheemomentsphotog/

Beyond Six Figures as a Photographer Have you ever wondered why some businesses grow quickly and successfully but then seem to reach a point where they cannot go any higher financially? Many photography businesses face this challenge. At first, they start strong and make good profits, but after a while, they struggle to reach the next level. This ceiling is often frustrating. So, what stops you from hitting those high earnings and going even further? The answer could be in your business model or personal approach.  In today’s episode, Rhea shares how you can reach six-figure success in your business through her mentorship program, ELEVATE. She reveals exclusive insider tips to guide her clients to hit—and exceed—the six-figure milestone. With a track record of proven results, Rhea’s approach is more than just theory; she has consistently helped her clients achieve these ambitious goals.   What You Will Learn: [00:01] Intro and why the episode is titled ‘Six Figures and Beyond.’ [01:10] Who is ‘ELEVATE’ suitable for [04:08] What it takes to go beyond six figures as a pro photographer [04:57] You must have an identified specialty or genre of work [06:08] Develop high-ticket offers and packages [07:17] Identify your target market and ideal clients [07:36] Have good management and systems around your business finances [08:40] Have consistency in your marketing and promotion [14:20] Have a great blend of front-end and back-end offers [16:36] A quick recap [17:35] How to reach out and become part of the ELEVATE family   Standout Quotes: “Success comes with a clearly defined specialty or genre of work. People should clearly name your brand and in specific, what type of photography you do, even when you are not in the room.” - Rhea [04:57] “Product marketing and promotion are things you get stronger at with time. But in order to be so, you need to be consistent, with flexing and prunning.”- Rhea [08:47] “When you think going beyond six figures, you have to work on having a good past client retention and building an ecosystem where you can keep communicating with those past clients.”- Rhea  [12:22] “There’s no better dollar to be made than  from your past client.”- Rhea [12:50]   Stay Connected  Sign up for the FREE webinar Perfectly Packaged for Six Figures and Beyond here: https://elevate.rheawhitney.com/webinar Learn more about me here: https://rheawhitney.com/ Follow me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/RheaWhitney/ Connect with me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RheaWhitneyPhotography