Beyond the Image Podcast

Here are proejcts I was convinced would make (or break) my career as a photographer. The truth is - they didn't do either. This is about the culmination of our efforts. https://jamespatrick.com/

I've been looking over my contracts that I send out to clients prior to a commercial campaign and have honed in on two specfic areas that are non-negotiables for me as a professional photographer. In 20+ years of business, these two sections are vital to reduce client confusion, add clarity to project deliverables and eliminate lost revenue of work we would have done without additional pay. https://jamespatrick.com/

The last planner you will ever need! Plan out your year, months, weeks and days with The Legacy Planner to get more done, stay on track and chart out your most successful year ever! Why do some individuals seem to possess the capacity to consistently achieve great things in their lives, while others tend to struggle? Perhaps you have wondered the same thing and questioned what specifically separates the two groups. If we are to believe musings from the infinite parade of social media memes, then each of us are already abundant with endless potential. Yet despite that potential, for some unknown reason, only a small percentage of the population seems to have the right key to unlock it. To add to the confusion, that "key" is often defined as simply being the result of hard work, grit, hustle, persistence, determination, perseverance, or a multitude of other buzzwords that sound really great and empowering—but don't actually provide a concrete answer. What is it that actually separates the individual who is able to achieve his or her health goals from someone who battles with their health year after year? What distinguishes the efforts of the person who stimulates and grows their mental acuity from someone who regularly suffers from stress and atrophy? What is different about those who foster enriching relationships from others who remain lonely? And what distinguishes someone who achieves their business goals from those who do not? For the past decade, these questions have been central in author James Patrick's obsession behind deconstructing and comprehending how humans are able to cultivate change, and thereby achieve success within their lives. His goal was to decipher the exact methodology of achievement, systemize it, and make that approach accessible so others could put it into action. Through his editorial research, the writing of his best-selling book Fit Business Guide: The Workout Plan for Your Brand, and the hundreds of interviews he conducted for the podcast Beyond the Image, James discovered the elements that are responsible for crafting change, and devised how to reserve engineer them so they can be applied to anything we wish to achieve. After all, success leaves clues. What those clues have shown is that creating the change you seek and turning the impossible to possible comes down to three essential pillars: Vision. Purpose. Legacy. The Legacy Planner is how you can apply all three to your own life to ignite the change, growth, and success you've always imagined. GET A FREE PDF COPY AT https://jamespatrick.com/legacy/ OR GET PRINT COPIES ON AMAZON AT https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BJ4R45NV 

Posing doesn't have to feel awkward, forced, or inconsistent. In this episode, James Patrick breaks down 8 practical posing tips he's used across more than 800 magazine covers to help photographers confidently direct real clients, not professional models. You'll learn how to create structure at the start of a shoot, guide clients into flattering body angles, fix posture and hands, use props intentionally, and capture natural expressions that feel authentic and powerful. These are real, on-set cues and micro-adjustments you can start using immediately to improve your client experience and elevate your images. If you've ever struggled with posing direction or felt unsure leading people in front of the camera, this episode gives you a clear, repeatable system that works across branding, headshots, lifestyle, and editorial photography. 👉 Download the free Magazine Cover Posing Guide at jamespatrick.com/posing In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why posing is a photographer skill, not a client problem How structure at the start of a shoot builds confidence The most reliable foundational pose for any client Simple cues that instantly improve posture and presence How to eliminate awkward hands without overthinking When and how to use props to improve posing Techniques to capture natural, authentic expressions Why confident direction improves both images and referrals The 8 Posing Tips Covered 1. Start With Structure Why leading early removes uncertainty and sets the tone for the shoot. 2. The 3/4 Power Stance A universally flattering pose that creates shape, confidence, and dimension. 3. Chin Forward and Slightly Down The single micro-adjustment that sharpens the jawline and energizes the eyes. 4. Shift the Weight How weight placement creates either softness or strength in a pose. 5. Relaxed Shoulders, Tall Posture Cues that improve posture without adding tension. 6. Give the Hands a Job Simple fixes to eliminate stiff, awkward hands. 7. Use Props With Purpose How light prop interaction improves comfort and flow. 8. Break the Expression Capturing the in-between moments that feel natural and human. Resources Mentioned Free Magazine Cover Posing Guide for Photographers 👉 https://jamespatrick.com/posing/ About the Host James Patrick is a professional photographer, creative director, and educator with more than two decades of experience behind the lens. He has photographed over 800 magazine covers and helps photographers build both their craft and their careers through education, mentorship, and real-world insight.  

Are your photography rates leaving you busy, booked, and broke? In this episode of Beyond the Image, James Patrick breaks down exactly how photographers can calculate sustainable rates that cover their cost of doing business, desired income, and all the hidden hours spent editing, marketing, and running their business. Learn step-by-step formulas to figure out your true hourly rate, price your shoots correctly, and turn every session into profit through usage, upsells, and add-on services. Whether you're a portrait, commercial, editorial, or lifestyle photographer, this episode gives you practical tools to stop undercharging, attract the right clients, and grow a profitable photography business. Stop guessing your rates—start calculating them the right way. Connect with James Patrick at JamesPatrick.com

The recent Vanity Fair portraits by Christopher Anderson sparked an unprecedented reaction across the creative world. Some called them powerful. Others called them "bad photos." In this episode of Beyond the Image, James Patrick breaks down why that criticism reveals more about viewer expectations than photographic quality. From extreme close-ups and intentional lighting choices to the role of honesty, narrative, and authorship, this conversation explores what actually defines a successful photograph. We unpack why photography is a form of storytelling, why not every image is meant to flatter, and why some of the most important photographs in history are uncomfortable to look at. The episode also examines what this moment says about AI, creative intent, and the ethical decisions that still separate human-made work from generated imagery. This is not political commentary. It's photographic commentary. https://jamespatrick.com/

Photographers… this may shock you — but not everyone is going to like your work. And sometimes, the loudest critics are other photographers. In this episode of Beyond the Image, James Patrick breaks down why criticism from other creatives often has nothing to do with your talent and everything to do with ego, insecurity, and misplaced comparison. You'll learn how to tell the difference between constructive feedback and noise, why other photographers don't get to decide your value, and how to stay focused on what actually matters — creating work you're proud of and serving the clients who hire you. If you've ever dealt with trolls, drive-by comments, or industry shade, this episode is your reminder that community beats competition, ego doesn't pay the bills, and not everyone is supposed to like your work. https://jamespatrick.com/

In this episode of Beyond the Image, James Patrick takes a direct, professional look at one of the most polarizing conversations in the photography world: ethical pricing. After a viral post claimed that "$2,000 for 100 photos is unethical," the industry erupted into yet another round of pricing debates, judgment, and misinformation. James breaks down why these arguments happen—and more importantly, why they're built on a limited, inaccurate understanding of how photography pricing, usage, licensing, and value-based business models actually work. In this episode, you'll learn: Why "dollars per photo" is the wrong way to price your work How usage, reach, and client impact determine true value How experience, overhead, and production level shape sustainable pricing Why shaming photographers for their rates is the real unethical behavior A clear framework for building a profitable, sustainable photography business How commercial photography pricing differs from family, portrait, and lifestyle work How understanding licensing transforms your earning potential Perfect for: Photographers, creative entrepreneurs, commercial shooters, brand photographers, content creators, and anyone looking to strengthen their business, pricing strategy, and professional mindset. If you've ever struggled with what to charge—or felt pressure from internet strangers telling you your rates are wrong—this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you've been missing. https://jamespatrick.com/

In this episode of Beyond the Image, James Patrick dives into one of the biggest questions photographers asked after his viral video: "What do you do when the client is the difficult one?" After more than 20 years, hundreds of shoots, and more personalities than he can count, James breaks down the real root of "bad clients," why a vague contract is more dangerous than a tough personality, and how to protect your work, your energy, and your business with clear boundaries. You'll learn: • Why your contract is your #1 line of defense • What MUST be included in every scope and deliverables list • How to enforce boundaries without being rude • Why "no" is often the most professional answer • How to navigate change orders, unreasonable requests, and toxic behavior • And how to move on without letting difficult clients drain your creativity If you've ever had a shoot derailed, a client push past limits, or a project go off the rails — this episode gives you the tools to stay in control, stay confident, and stay creative. Key Topics Covered • Why difficult clients aren't actually the root problem Most breakdowns come from vague agreements, not personality clashes. How tightening your contract eliminates 90% of conflict before it ever starts. • What must be inside your contract The exact items that belong in a scope of work — deliverables, looks, locations, edits, usage terms, fees, timelines, and change orders. • The phrase that ends arguments instantly How "please refer to the terms and conditions" resets expectations with professionalism and clarity. • When and how to say "no" without burning bridges Why "no" is not rude — it's a boundary. How to decline requests, deny scope creep, and keep the project on track. • How to recognize toxic client behavior early Red flags, communication breakdowns, and when to walk away. • The mindset shift photographers must make You can't be a creative and a punching bag at the same time. Client satisfaction matters — but so does your wellbeing. https://jamespatrick.com/ 

In this episode, I break down exactly how I landed a dream project—not through luck, connections, or waiting to "get discovered," but by creating the kind of work I wanted to be hired for. I share the full strategy behind building a spec portfolio, crafting content marketing around it, and ultimately generating a wave of viral visibility that positioned me as the go-to creator for that exact style of work. If you've ever felt stuck waiting for the "right" clients to find you, this is the blueprint for taking control of your opportunities and building demand around your passion. https://jamespatrick.com/ https://www.instagram.com/jpatrickphoto/ 

Fresh off a portfolio review at a local college, I'm breaking down the biggest and most common mistakes photographers make when trying to showcase their work—and why these mistakes might be standing between you and your next client. In this episode, I cover: • Mistake #1: Overloading your portfolio with too many images • Mistake #2: Showcasing work you don't actually want to shoot • Mistake #3: Not showing enough of the work you do want to be hired for And then we get into the biggest mistake of all: relying solely on your portfolio as your entire marketing strategy. Because in today's world, having a great portfolio is essential—but it's not enough on its own. We'll talk about what you should be doing beyond the portfolio to get in front of the right clients, build authority, and consistently generate work. Connect with me: 🌐 Website: jamespatrick.com 📸 Instagram: @jamespatrickphoto

Stepping into video work as a photographer? Before you hit record, you need to understand the technical fundamentals that make—or break—your footage. In this episode, James Patrick breaks down the 10 essential technical skills photographers must know before transitioning into video, including shutter speed rules, frame rates, ND filters, autofocus behavior, lighting continuity, audio basics, codecs, bitrates, and more. Whether you're adding video to your services or simply exploring motion for the first time, this episode gives you the roadmap to get started the right way. https://jamespatrick.com/ 

In the spirit of Halloween, I'm pulling back the curtain on 13 real-life production horror stories — projects that went sideways, off the rails, or barely escaped disaster. From shoots that spiraled out of control to campaigns that almost didn't see the light of day, these are the lessons learned the hard way from behind the lens and behind the scenes. Whether you're a creative, a brand, or a business owner, this episode is your survival guide for when everything that can go wrong… does. Tune in, take notes, and maybe keep some sage on standby. https://www.instagram.com/jpatrickphoto https://jamespatrick.com/ 

It's 2025 — and ghosting has gone professional. From clients who vanish after getting a proposal, to contractors who disappear mid-project, and collaborators who drop off without a word, we're all haunted by the same modern nightmare: bad communication. In this episode, James Patrick dives into the spooky, hilarious, and painfully relatable world of ghosting in business. He shares dramatized stories of the vanishing client, the disappearing collaborator, and the contractor who seemed promising — all told with a sharp sense of humor and a dash of Halloween flair. But this isn't just a vent session. Listeners will learn practical strategies for surviving ghosting, including how to set boundaries, follow up effectively, and even professionally resurrect conversations that seemed lost forever. Because in business — and in life — ghosts belong in stories, not in your inbox. Tune in, laugh at the absurdity, and discover how to turn the haunting of 2025 into clear, confident communication. More at: https://www.jamespatrick.com Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jpatrickphoto

Pricing your work shouldn't feel like guesswork—but too often, creatives leave money on the table simply by how they bid. In this episode, I break down the 5 most common mistakes photographers and creatives make when quoting projects—from vague pricing and missing line items to failing to set boundaries. You'll learn how to bid with clarity, confidence, and control, so you protect your value and land better clients without endless back-and-forth negotiations. https://jamespatrick.com/

If I could go back to day one of my photography career—knowing everything I know now—I wouldn't follow the same path. In this episode, I'm breaking down the 7 biggest things I'd do differently to build momentum faster, price with confidence, and create long-term opportunities without years of trial and error. From niching down earlier to not letting gatekeepers define my ceiling, these are the lessons I wish someone had handed me when I started. Whether you're new to the industry or looking to reset your trajectory, this episode will give you a roadmap to build smarter, not harder. https://jamespatrick.com/

In this episode, I sit down with Joel Pilger, former agency founder and now global advisor to creative studios, to uncover the root causes that hold many photographers and creative agencies back from sustainable growth. Joel brings real-world lessons from his two-decade journey running Impossible Pictures, through its rise, sale, and his transition into consulting for hundreds of studios. We dig into: Common growth traps creative agencies fall into (feast-or-famine cycles, underpriced services, lack of systems) How creative companies can evolve from "order-taker" to strategic, high-impact partners Business development & positioning strategies that differentiate your brand Pricing, operations, and mindset shifts needed to scale How to future-proof your agency with long-term value and resilience If you're building or leading a creative agency, this episode is a masterclass in combining artistry and business discipline. Connect with Joel Pilger at https://www.joelpilger.com/ or on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelpilger/  Connect with James Patrick at https://jamespatrick.com/ 

Every photographer has heard them — the promises of "more work coming soon," the classic "we'll pay you in exposure," or the dreaded "this will only take an hour." In this episode of the Beyond the Image Podcast, host James Patrick pulls back the curtain on the most common (and most annoying) lies clients tell photographers — and why they can derail your business if you're not prepared. From fake promises of future gigs to sneaky discount tactics, James shares real-world examples, hilarious truths, and strategies to protect your time, talent, and bottom line. If you've ever struggled with pricing, boundaries, or managing client expectations, this episode will help you take back control of your creative business. https://jamespatrick.com/

We recently had a workshop at The Hive Studios on career growth and it got me thinking about how I've personally grown my photography business and built a portfolio of clients. Over the last 20 years I've gone through two major phases of business development growth; when I first started and right now. In this episode of the Beyond the Image podcast I share the exact startegy I have used for the entirety of my career to not only onboard new clients but to earn repeat business from current clients. I also discuss ways you as a creative can differentiate yourself, beyond just segmenting or having a niche audience. From there we discuss the client relationship journey and the process of earning repeat business from your happy clients. You can see my website at https://jamespatrick.com/ My studio is over at https://www.hivestudiosaz.com/ And my Instagram is https://www.instagram.com/jpatrickphoto 

I just lost a proposal for a video project. The client contacted me and had a pretty lengthly list of requirements and specs for the assignment, all of which we were able to accomodate and a very competitive price. However, the client responded to say we were about three hundred percent over their budget. To be fair - their budget was pretty ridiculous and way under even the most conservative of market value for the work they were requesting. We were able to counter with a revised approach that brough our estimate within $200 of their budget and we still did not win the job. So. what happened and why was our approach still the right approach? https://jamespatrick.com/