The Empowered Photographer Podcast with Elena S Blair

Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, Elena Blair sits down with Cincinnati-based branding photographer Bonnie Phillips to discuss the deep intersection of business strategy and personal mindset. Bonnie, a "longtime lurker" turned mastermind student, shares her journey of transitioning from a generalist photographer to a specialist who serves small businesses and creative entrepreneurs. They dive into the realities of "fear of success," the psychological hurdles of raising your prices, and why a solid brand solves problems rather than just selling services. Whether you are a "lead parent" trying to make your business "legit" or a photographer struggling to merge multiple passions onto one website, Bonnie's experience offers a roadmap for finding clarity and confidence in a crowded industry. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * The Long Game of Marketing: How years of "lurking" on social media can eventually lead to a high-value conversion. * Fear of Success vs. Fear of Failure: Understanding why we subconsciously sabotage our growth to stay in the "safety" of camaraderie and failure. * Mindset Over Strategy: Why your business won't grow until your internal money story catches up with your worth. * Niche Specialization: How Bonnie successfully separates branding, headshots, and family photography on a single website. * The Problem-Solver Mentality: Shifting from "selling photography" to providing a high-value service that elevates a client's brand. * Human Connection in the Age of AI: Why in-person photography and real human experiences are becoming more valuable as technology advances. Links & Resources: * Bonnie Phillips Photography: bonniephillipsphotography.com [http://www.bonniephillipsphotography.com/] * Follow Bonnie on Instagram: @bonniephillipsphotos [https://www.instagram.com/bonniephillipsphotos] * Elena Blair Mastermind: Learn more about the program that transformed Bonnie's business.+1 Connect With Me: * Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] * Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] * Visit my Website [https://elenasblair.com/] for More! Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! We just hit 20,000 downloads, and your support helps us reach more photographers like you. 💛

Episode Summary: Success in photography doesn't always have to come from the Instagram algorithm. In today's Empowered coaching session, Elena Blair sits down with Santa Barbara-based photographer Tristin Tracy to discuss her rapid rise as the go-to expert for family, couples, and proposal photography. Tristin shares how she leveraged Elena's Mastermind to build a solid foundation and then supercharged her business by leaning into an "old school" but highly effective marketing strategy: local network marketing. They dive deep into the world of proposal photography a lucrative and romantic niche that Tristin mastered through strategic partnerships with luxury boutique hotels. From walking into hotels with zero experience to becoming the #1 ranked proposal photographer in Santa Barbara via SEO, Tristin's journey is a blueprint for photographers who want to stop "scrolling" and start building a real-world reputation. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * The Quick Trajectory: How Tristin went from watching YouTube videos during the pandemic to a thriving six-figure business in record time. * Proposal Photography 101: The logistics of capturing a secret proposal, from hiding your camera in a beach basket to recording the audio of the "Yes". * Networking with Hotels: How to approach local businesses and concierges to become their preferred referral partner. * The Power of Authority: Why blogging isn't a "diary"—it's a tool to build trust and educate your clients before they even book you. * Diversifying Revenue: How Tristin transitioned into education by teaching other photographers how to master the art of the "pitch". Links & Resources: * Tristin Tracy Photography: tristintracyphotography.com [https://tristintracyphotography.com/] * Follow Tristin on Instagram: @tristintracy_photography [https://www.instagram.com/tristintracy_photography] * Tristin's Course on Local Networking [https://www.tristintracyphotography.com/a-fresh-look-at-referrals-to-book-your-calendar/]: Get 50% OFF using the code PODCASTSPECIAL! * Elena Blair's Mastermind: Apply here [https://www.elenasblair.com/] to fast-track your own growth.+1 Connect With Me: * Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] * Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] * Visit my Website [https://elenasblair.com/] for More! Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! We just celebrated 20,000 downloads, and your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

Episode Summary: For the first time ever, Elena Blair records a live, in-person episode—straight from her home! Joining her is Becca Jean (Becca Jean Photography), a rising star in the industry who successfully transitioned from being a school reading assistant to a full-time, high-earning adventure family photographer. In this dynamic conversation, Elena and Becca peel back the curtain on how Becca built a highly recognizable brand through her signature "adventure sessions" and a sought-after client closet. They also dive deep into the "why" and "how" of becoming a photography educator. From launching presets to creating high-converting funnels, Becca shares her journey of moving from active income to passive income. Whether you're curious about adding video to your workflow or wondering if it's finally time to bet on yourself and quit your day job, this episode is packed with tangible advice and a major confidence boost. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * The Career Leap: How Becca replaced her teaching income and why betting on yourself is better than staying in a "safe" job just for health insurance. * Adventure Family Sessions: What "adventure" really means (hint: it's not a three-hour hike!) and how to choose locations that engage children. * The Client Closet Strategy: How providing versatile, high-end dresses creates brand consistency and increases your value. * Easy Family Films: How Becca added video to her offerings without a gimbal or a sound crew by using handheld slow-motion techniques. * The Educator Journey: The natural progression from selling presets and templates to launching full-scale online courses. * Email Marketing vs. Social Media: Why you should prioritize your email list (where 20-50% see your content) over the Instagram algorithm. Links & Resources: * Becca Jean Photography Website: beccajeanphotography.com [https://beccajeanphotography.com/] * Becca's New Membership [https://courses.beccajeanphotography.com/p/family-photography-collective]: Community and monthly learning for photographers * Course Creation & Autopilot Sales [https://www.courses.elenasblair.com/p/course-creation-autopilot-sales-for-photographers]: Learn how to turn your expertise into a digital course * Metricool [https://metricool.com/]: The tool Becca uses to schedule her social media content and reels Connect With Me: * Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] * Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] * Visit my Website [https://elenasblair.com/] for More! Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

Episode Summary: In this candid solo episode, Elena Blair pulls back the curtain on one of the most frequently asked questions she receives: "How do you do it all?" Elena addresses the misconception that she built her empire entirely on her own while raising children. She shares her honest journey from being a young, isolated mom and NICU nurse to becoming a high-volume photographer, and educator, and the essential role that support played in that transformation. Elena dives deep into the "guilt-free" necessity of childcare, tracing her path from hiring a babysitter for just four hours a week to eventually transitioning her children into full-time preschool as her business demands grew. This episode is a permission slip for any photographer who feels divided between their passion and their parenting. Elena discusses why getting help isn't just a business strategy, it's a way to become a more present, intentional mother and a successful artist. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * The Reality of the "Solo" Journey: Why Elena believes being transparent about having help is vital for the creative community. * Starting Small with Support: How Elena began with just four hours of childcare a week when disposable income was tight. * The "Divided Parent" Trap: Why working during nap times and playtime can lead to burnout and how focused work hours change everything. * Transitioning Careers: The steps Elena took to replace her nursing income with photography, eventually doubling and tripling her previous salary. * Inspiring the Next Generation: How building a business as an artist teaches your children that pursuing their own creative dreams is possible. * Setting Boundaries: Learning to treat your photography like a real business by establishing clear working hours. Links & Resources: * Behind the Scenes: Follow Elena on Instagram [https://www.google.com/search?q=https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair/] to see the highlights from the recent Mastermind Retreat. * The "Love, Love, Love" Podcast: Listen to Elena's guest appearance [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/season-2-episode-02-elena-s-blair/id1262468955?i=1000434093105] on Jan Palmer's show for the full story on her career and personal transitions. Connect With Me: * Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] * Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] * Visit my Website [https://elenasblair.com/] for More! Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

Episode Summary: In this episode, Elena Blair sits down with Casey Thornton, a motherhood photographer who successfully transitioned from a career in dental hygiene to a thriving, six-figure photography business in less than four years. Casey shares her journey of embracing a micro-niche in "intimate motherhood," the power of community over competition, and how she manages the delicate balance of growing a business while raising young children. Whether you are just starting out or looking to pivot into a more soulful, aligned business model, Casey's story offers a roadmap for fast-tracking success through intuition, specialization, and mindset work. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * The Transition: How Casey moved from a "safe" healthcare career she wasn't passionate about to a creative business she loves. * Community as a Catalyst: Why joining a mastermind and finding photography "camaraderie" can collapse time and fast-track your success. * The Power of Specialization: Why Casey decided to focus exclusively on moms with toddlers and babies to stand out in a crowded market. * Mindset and Business: The role of meditation, intention setting, and overcoming limiting beliefs in scaling a business. * Realities of "Career Mothering": Honest talk about breastfeeding, childcare boundaries, and the guilt associated with being a working mom. * The Next Chapter: Casey's journey into education, hosting in-person workshops, and her dreams of global photography retreats. Links & Resources: * Casey's Website: photosbycaseylouise.com [http://photosbycaseylouise.com/] * The Aligned Photographer Collective: Casey's upcoming educational platform * Elena's Mastermind: [https://elenasblair.com/the-elena-s-blair-mastermind] Learn more about the programs Casey used to scale her business Connect With Me: * Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] * Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] * Visit my Website [https://elenasblair.com/]for More! Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this inspiring coaching session, Elena sits down with Leslie Fox to dive deep into what it means to build a business that aligns with the life you actually want. Leslie shares vulnerably about navigating the pressure to do it all while also honoring her values around family, rest, and meaningful work. Whether you're a mom, creative, or multi-passionate entrepreneur, this episode reminds you that success doesn't have to look like hustle culture. It can look like ease, clarity, and intentional growth. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * How Leslie redefined productivity to work with her lifestyle * The power of asking yourself what success really looks like * How to let go of pressure to meet external expectations Links & Resources: Learn more about Leslie's work on her website [http://lesliefoxphotography.com/] Apply for the Mastermind [https://www.elenasblair.com/elena-s-blair-mastermind-application] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website [https://elenasblair.com/] for More! Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

Episode Summary: In this heartfelt interview, Elena chats with Rebecca Bloomfield, a documentary family photographer in Connecticut, about her transformation from part-time passion to full-time business owner. Rebecca shares how enrolling in the Elena S. Blair Mastermind shifted her mindset, gave her clarity in her niche, and helped her build sustainable income with intention. From photographing schools to refining her documentary style, Rebecca's story is a beautiful reminder that building the business you want starts with believing that it's possible. Whether you're feeling unsure about investing in your business, struggling with pricing or packages, or afraid to niche down, this episode will remind you that growth is available, when you decide to go all in. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * How Rebecca went from four part-time jobs to full-time photographer * Why niching down into documentary family photography was both scary and empowering * The power of setting income goals and working toward them with intention * Ways to balance artistic fulfillment with client expectations * Why time-based pricing might be holding your business back Links & Resources: Rebecca's Website [https://rebeccabloomfield.com]Follow Rebecca on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/rebecca.bloomfield.photography/] Learn More About the Elena S. Blair Mastermind [https://elenasblair.com/the-elena-s-blair-mastermind] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [https://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode, Elena welcomes her first guest  to the Empowered Coaching Sessions, Jaime Bugbee King, a Portland-area family photographer and educator. Jaime shares her powerful story of transitioning from a burnt-out dental hygienist to a thriving full-time photographer and business coach. Together, they explore how investing in education, embracing a luxury client experience, and building a reliable lead-generation system helped Jaime replace her salary and step confidently into her role as a creative entrepreneur. Whether you're just starting out or feeling stuck in your growth, this conversation is a must-listen. You'll walk away with encouragement, tangible marketing tips, and a reminder that you're capable of building something beautiful and profitable on your own terms. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * Why mindset and identity work are foundational to building a successful photography business * How Jaime replaced her dental hygiene salary through intentional marketing and SEO * Tips for transitioning from side-hustle to full-time photographer, and later into educator Links & Resources: Jaime Bugbee Photography on IG: @jaimebugbeephotography [https://www.instagram.com/jaimebugbeephotography/] Jaime Bugbee Photo Coach on IG: @jaimebugbeephotocoach [https://www.instagram.com/photomarketingcoach/] Jaime's Education Website: https://www.jaimebugbee.com [https://www.jaimebugbee.com/] Apply to the Elena S Blair Mastermind [https://www.elenasblair.com/elena-s-blair-mastermind-application] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [https://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this episode, Elena shares how to make fine art mini sessions a successful and sustainable part of your photography business. She walks you through her approach to creating minis that feel elevated, artistic, and aligned with your brand values—while also serving as a reliable income stream. Whether you're in a slow season or just craving a creative shift, this episode gives you the clarity and encouragement to run minis your own way. You'll walk away with practical tips for pricing, setup, branding, and marketing so that your mini sessions don't feel like a rushed afterthought, but instead a powerful tool to connect with ideal clients and keep your calendar full. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * How to structure mini sessions that align with a fine art brand * The importance of visual branding and intentionality in minis * How to price minis to make them worth your time and energy * Why mini sessions can be a great entry point for long-term clients * Mindset shifts around offering minis without diluting your brand Links & Resources: Free Fine Art Mini Session Class [http://elenasblair.com/free-fine-art-mini-session-class] ElenasBlair.com [http://www.ElenasBlair.com] for more free education. Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this heartfelt episode, Elena shares the story behind the creation and transformation of her signature Mastermind Retreats. From a modest gathering of 20 photographers in post-COVID Seattle to an industry-recognized annual event with over 80 attendees, these retreats have become a sanctuary for connection, creativity, and business growth. Elena walks us through the values, structure, and special moments that make the retreat unlike any other experience in the photography world—and invites you to envision your seat at the table. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * The origin story of the Mastermind Retreat and how it has evolved since 2022 * What makes this retreat different from other industry events * The intentional design behind the retreat experience: from styled shoots to print competitions * Why community and aligned business strategy go hand in hand * How to apply or join the waitlist for the next retreat Links & Resources: Apply for the next Mastermind [https://www.elenasblair.com/elena-s-blair-mastermind-application] Learn more about the Mastermind Program [https://elenasblair.com/the-elena-s-blair-mastermind] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [http://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this episode, Elena shares how school photography—done differently—can create consistent income, boost visibility, and fuel growth in your family photography business. She breaks down the difference between outdated, stiff school portraits and the fine art, boutique model that has helped her scale to a multiple six-figure business. If you love working with children and want to eliminate the slow season, this episode opens the door to a strategy that can radically transform your business. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * Why school photography is more than just a side hustle * How boutique school portraits attract your ideal family clients * Systems that make high-volume photo days smooth and profitable * How school photography boosts SEO and fills your calendar year-round * Real income potential (from $5k to $300k+) with real examples Links & Resources: School Photography Quick Start Guide – Free Download [http://elenasblair.com/step-by-step-guide-to-get-started-with-fine-art-school-portraits] School Photography Course – Full System & Templates [https://courses.elenasblair.com/l/pdp/the-new-schooled] www.elenasblair.com [http://www.elenasblair.com] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en]Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/]Visit my Website for More! Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this episode, Elena breaks down the buzz around "passive income" and gets honest about what it really means for photographers. She shares her own experience building multiple income streams and offers a practical look at how you can start earning money in your sleep—without needing a massive following or viral content. If you've been wondering whether you're ready to start creating offers that generate revenue on autopilot, this bite-sized episode is your sign to begin. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * What passive income actually is—and what it's not * Why photographers are uniquely positioned to create profitable digital products * How to take the first steps toward building a sustainable passive income stream Links & Resources: 👉 Download Elena's free 7-page Passive Income Workbook [https://elena-s-blair-photography-inc.kit.com/bedb95e86f] 👉 Join the Course Creation Class [https://courses.elenasblair.com/l/pdp/course-creation-autopilot-sales-for-photographers] (starting January 5th) Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [http://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this heartfelt episode, Elena reflects on her 15-year journey as a photographer and the lessons she wishes she had known when starting out. From embracing the slow growth of success to the importance of mentorship, marketing strategies, and honing your craft, this episode is filled with wisdom for photographers at any stage of business. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by comparison or unsure where to put your focus, Elena's perspective will guide you toward building a grounded, sustainable, and meaningful photography business. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * Why success takes time and why that's okay * The power of ignoring comparison and focusing on your path * How mentorship can rapidly accelerate your growth * Why social media isn't everything (and what to focus on instead) * The underrated power of email marketing and SEO * Why school photography can transform your income quickly * How practice and creativity are foundational to your success Links & Resources: Photography Business Roadmap Freebie [http://elenasblair.com/family-photography-business-roadmap] Marketing the Right Way [https://elenasblair.com/what-i-wish-i-knew-before-starting-my-photography-business/] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [http://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this episode, Elena shares the exact strategy she's used for over a decade to book out her photography calendar months in advance. Inspired by her own experience with her kids' summer camp selling out in minutes, she breaks down how you can implement the same urgency and structure in your business. By leveraging email marketing, client loyalty, and scarcity, you can create a reliable stream of bookings that sustain your business year-round—without burning out or chasing leads all year. This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you stop waiting for clients and start filling your calendar with intention. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * Why scarcity and exclusivity drive bookings * How to use your email list as your most powerful marketing tool * Why proactive booking beats reactive scrambling every time * How to turn past clients into repeat, year-after-year customers * A proven strategy to fill your calendar during Black Friday Links & Resources: * Black Friday Booking Class [https://courses.elenasblair.com/p/black-friday-booking] – Under $30 * Free Email List Building Guide [http://elenasblair.com/3-step-guide-email-list] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en]Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/]Visit my Website for More! [http://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this energizing episode, Elena walks you through a step-by-step strategy to prepare for a thriving photography business in 2026. Whether you're just getting started or want to scale from part-time to full-time, this episode is packed with guidance on goal setting, marketing, mindset, and pricing. Elena shares what it really takes to plan for a profitable year ahead—and why now is the perfect time to begin laying the groundwork for the success you're craving. This is your invitation to take yourself seriously, set real goals, and make a plan to grow with intention. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * The first thing every photographer must do before 2026 begins * Why you need an income goal (even if you're part-time) * How to calculate your shoot volume based on your pricing * The two marketing strategies that are more powerful than social media * What role mindset plays in your profitability * How to use the end of the year to build momentum for the new one Links & Resources: Apply for the Elena S Blair 5-Month Mastermind [https://www.elenasblair.com/elena-s-blair-mastermind-application] Email Marketing Starter Guide [http://elenasblair.com/3-step-guide-email-list] Photography Pricing Guide for Profitability [http://elenasblair.com/free-simple-pricing-guide] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [http://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this quick and impactful episode, Elena shares her favorite time-saving strategies for photographers looking to streamline their workflows and reclaim their time. From creating email templates to batch working and outsourcing editing, this episode is packed with actionable ideas to help you stop wasting time on tasks that aren't serving your business. If you're ready to run a more efficient and profitable photography business, this one's for you. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * How to save hours each week by using email templates and scheduling tools * The power of batch working and why it's a game-changer for creatives * Why outsourcing editing or using AI tools can significantly increase your profit margins * Practical advice on getting support at home so you can treat your business like a business Links & Resources: Time Saving Tips [https://elenasblair.com/time-saving-tips-for-your-photography-business-photography-business-advice/] Link to HoneyBook [https://share.honeybook.com/tKu4b] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [http://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this heartfelt episode, I'm taking you back to the exact moment that transformed everything about how I approached newborn photography. If you've ever felt misaligned or unsure about the posed newborn style, this episode is for you. I'm sharing my personal journey of going from traditional posed sessions to discovering what truly felt aligned—and how that shift exploded my business and redefined my purpose as a photographer. If you're curious about lifestyle newborn photography or baby-led posing, this might be the sign you've been waiting for. Key Takeaways: 1. Misalignment Is a Clue, Not a Failure * I was running a successful business in posed newborn photography but felt emotionally and creatively drained. * The work didn't feel like me, and I constantly questioned whether I belonged in the newborn niche. 2. A Personal Moment Sparked My Clarity * When photographing my own baby, I realized just how unnatural posed setups felt to me. * That experience revealed that I was working against my instincts as a mother and creative. 3. Rebranding to Alignment Changed Everything * I made the bold decision to completely rebrand into lifestyle newborn photography. * I created a baby-led posing system rooted in safety, connection, and natural moments. * That's when my business took off—and I've now taught this method all over the world. Final Thoughts: If posed newborn photography doesn't feel aligned for you, you're not alone—and it doesn't mean you're not meant to be a newborn photographer. There is another way. Lifestyle newborn photography allows you to lead with connection, authenticity, and trust in your instincts. It's time to explore a version of this work that lights you up instead of draining you. Resources & Links: 👉 Download my free Newborn Posing Guide [http://elenasblair.com/newborn-posing-guide] – Five safe and simple baby-led poses, step-by-step. 👉 Check out my Lifestyle Newborn Portfolio [https://www.elenasblairphotography.com/newborn-photography-seattle] – See what this style looks like in real sessions. 👉 Follow me on Instagram for more tips + inspiration [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography] 👉 Join my Facebook group for photographers [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/]

In this episode, I'm sharing the unexpected lesson I took from the recent TikTok ban scare and why it was the reminder we all needed. If you're relying solely on social media to grow your photography business, this episode is your wake-up call. I'm breaking down what you actually own in your business, what you don't, and how to create a long-term marketing strategy that keeps working no matter what happens online. Key Takeaways: 1. Social Media Is Rented Real Estate * You don't own your Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook accounts. * They can change, glitch, or disappear without warning—and there's no customer service to help you recover it. * The algorithm isn't responsible for your success—you are. 2. Focus on What You Can Control * Your website and your email list are platforms you own. * SEO (Search Engine Optimization) gets you in front of people actively searching for your services. * Email marketing gives you a direct line to your audience with far better visibility than social media. 3. Diversify Your Marketing Strategy * Social media is a tool, not the whole toolbox. * Your marketing should include SEO-optimized content and a consistent email strategy. * Real business growth happens off social media. Final Thoughts: If the TikTok ban showed us anything, it's that putting all your eggs in the social media basket is a dangerous game. It's time to focus your energy on platforms that are within your control—your website and your email list. This is how you build a resilient, long-lasting photography business. Resources & Links: * Download my free guide to get started with email marketing [http://elenasblair.com/3-step-guide-email-list] * Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography] * Join my Facebook group for photographers [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/]

This week, I'm tackling one of the most hotly debated topics in the photography industry: Should you make your pricing public on your website? It's a conversation that's been going strong for over a decade—and I'm here to tell you exactly where I stand. Spoiler alert: I believe your pricing should absolutely be visible. In this short and powerful episode, I'll share the hard truths, the mindset shifts, and the strategy behind public pricing—and why it can actually elevate your brand. Key Takeaways: 1. Hiding Your Pricing Doesn't Make You High-End * Your prices being a mystery doesn't make your brand more premium. * If you're not booking, it's likely a value issue—not a money issue. 2. Public Pricing Respects Everyone's Time * Clients want clarity, not confusion or a sales pitch. * If someone can't or won't pay your rates, they'll self-select out—and that's a good thing. * Transparency builds trust and filters in dream clients. 3. Strong Brands Don't Rely on Price Secrecy * Focus on building a consistent, meaningful body of work and an incredible experience. * If your business feels luxury and professional, your pricing becomes a non-issue. * Simplicity is a mark of expertise. Don't make it complicated. Final Thoughts: You don't need to hide your prices to book more clients. If anything, it may be hurting your inquiries and wasting your time. Trust in your value, simplify your client process, and let your website do some of the work for you. Yes, your pricing should be public. Period. Resources & Links: 👉 Download my FREE Pricing Guide [http://elenasblair.com/free-simple-pricing-guide]– Learn how to price for profit and stop second-guessing your rates. 👉 Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography] for more mindset + business tips 👉 Join my Photography Education Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/]

In this heartfelt episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on lifestyle newborn photography what it really means and why it's such a powerful, safe, and natural way to photograph new babies. As a former NICU nurse turned professional photographer, I bring years of experience and deep passion to this genre. You'll learn what sets lifestyle newborn photography apart from traditional posed sessions, what baby-led posing actually looks like, and why your role as the photographer is to guide, not force. If you're craving a more meaningful and stress-free way to document the newborn season, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: 1. Lifestyle Newborn Photography Is Natural, Not Forced * Focuses on baby-led posing—safe, comfortable, and organic positions. * No stiff props, awkward composites, or elaborate setups. * Real moments over staged perfection. 2. You're Still the Expert—Just with a Softer Touch * You guide the session, pose the baby naturally, and direct light and emotion. * A gentle but confident workflow still matters. * You don't need props to create impactful images. 3. The Home Is the Heart of the Story * Sessions are done in the family's space no studio lights, no distractions. * Photos capture personal, emotional details: the nursery, the rocking chair, those 2 a.m. memories. * Natural light and real settings create timeless images. 4. Newborns Are Perfect Just As They Are * No need to alter or manipulate connection and simplicity are key. * Lifestyle images tell the truth of the moment in a meaningful and artistic way. Resources & Links: 👉 Download the FREE Lifestyle Newborn Posing Guide [http://elenasblair.com/newborn-posing-guide] – Includes 5 of my favorite safe, baby-led poses. 👉 Follow along on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography] for more lifestyle newborn inspiration 👉 View my lifestyle newborn portfolio [https://www.elenasblairphotography.com/newborn-photography-seattle]