Take It Personally

Instagram has been my thing since before I even had a photography business, but this year, my content looked a little different. I hired a social media manager, leaned into more nuanced topics, and started paying closer attention to what was actually working instead of just guessing. And spoiler: my best-performing posts were not the perfectly designed, “Pinterest-worthy” ones.In this episode, I’m breaking down my best Instagram content from the year and what all of those posts had in common.You’ll hear what kind of posts actually did the best for my brand photography and education business and how you can also use those patterns to create better, more strategic Instagram content of your own.We’re talking:Why I finally hired help for Instagram, even though social media has always been “my thing”How I identified my best-performing posts (and what those posts actually were - see them on the blog!)What my top content had in common: 5 main thingsHow “I” language and personal stories can still be super valuable for your audienceWhy leaning into hotter topics made my content more funHow behind-the-scenes and milestone posts ended up in my top performersLinks & Resources:🏆 See my top performing posts & stats on the podcast blog post📱 Come hang with me on Instagram: @maddiepeschong📸 Learn more about Rebrand and my education for brand photographers on my website: maddiepeschong.com📝 Binge more educational posts, past podcast episodes, and resources for brand photographers on the blogLet's Connect:Website: maddiepeschong.comInstagram: @maddiepeschongIf you loved this episode, leave a review! It helps other photographers find the show and keeps us creating content you actually want to hear.

We’ve all had those moments where we know we need to post something…but have absolutely no idea what to say. In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the simple mindset shift that will help you create better Instagram content without feeling like you have to reinvent the wheel every single time.Creating great content isn’t about being clever. It’s about being accurate, relevant, and empathetic. And one of the fastest ways to build trust is by speaking to your clients in the same words they use. Today I’m sharing where to find that language, how to use it, and why this approach works so well for brand photographers who want to create content that genuinely resonates.We’re talking:The real reason you get stuck wondering what to postWhy client language is the foundation of strong messagingThe exact places to collect content ideasHow to stop writing for photographers and start writing for your actual brand clientsWhy vague, AI-ish captions don’t convert...and what to do insteadHow to use repeated questions as your content roadmapLinks & Resources💻 Join Behind the Shot: my course that teaches you how to price, plan, shoot, and deliver brand sessions that attract more dream clients: maddiepeschong.com/behindtheshot✔️ When you join Behind the Shot, you'll be able to join the 3-day portfolio-building challenging I'm hosting December 15-17 (live training + replays available!)📸 Grab the Brand Photography Questionnaire Template: www.maddiepeschong.com/shop📝 Blog: More tips and tools to grow your personal brand photography business💬 Questions or episode ideas? DM me on Instagram!Let's Connect:Website: maddiepeschong.comInstagram: @maddiepeschongIf you loved this episode, leave a review! It helps other photographers find the show and keeps us creating content you actually want to hear.

Almost every brand photographer has said it at some point: “My clients only want a one-hour session.” And honestly? I get why that feels true; I used to believe it too. But one-hour brand shoots are keeping so many photographers stuck, exhausted, and wildly underpaid.In this episode, we’re getting into why short sessions are creating chaos (for you and your clients) and why introducing a signature session is one of the fastest ways to elevate your work, raise your prices, and get clients the results they actually want.This episode walks through what a signature session includes, how to position it, and what it takes to confidently remove “time” from your packages, so you can finally price based on value instead of minutes on your watch.We’re talking:Why one-hour brand sessions lead to chaos, over-delivery, and burned-out photographersThe #1 mindset shift photographers need to stop underchargingWhat a signature session actually looks likeHow to confidently push back when clients say they “only need an hour”Why time shouldn’t be on your pricing/services pageA peek inside the brand-new pricing module inside Behind the Shot (and the Black Friday deal!)Links & Resources💻 Join Behind the Shot: my course that teaches you how to price, plan, shoot, and deliver brand sessions that attract more dream clients: maddiepeschong.com/behindtheshot✔️ When you join Behind the Shot, you'll be able to join the 3-day portfolio-building challenging I'm hosting December 15-17 (live training + replays available!)📸 Grab the Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: maddiepeschong.com📝 Blog: More tips and tools to grow your personal brand photography business💬 Questions or episode ideas? DM me on Instagram!Let's Connect:Website: maddiepeschong.comInstagram: @maddiepeschongIf you loved this episode, leave a review! It helps other photographers find the show and keeps us creating content you actually want to hear.

You’ve probably heard me talk a lot about niching into brand photography... and for good reason. It changed my business and my bookings. But today, we’re zooming out and talking about something I don’t cover nearly enough: what it looks like to simply add brand photography to the services you already offer.Because here’s the truth: you don’t have to completely niche down to benefit from this work. And for so many photographers (weddings, families, seniors, interiors), adding brand photography in 2026 might be the smartest, most profitable move you make. In this episode, we’re breaking down why.We're talking:Why brand photography helps you avoid burnoutThe income consistency brand photographers see year-roundThe creative side of brand shootsWhich photographers transition beautifully into brand photography, and whyHow your existing skill set probably already makes you perfect for this nicheLinks & Resources💻 Join Behind the Shot: my course that teaches you how to price, plan shoot, and deliver brand sessions that attract more dream clients: maddiepeschong.com/behindtheshot✔️ When you join Behind the Shot, you'll be able to join the 3-day portfolio-building challenging I'm hosting December 15-17 (live training + replays available!)📸 Grab the Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: maddiepeschong.com📝 Blog: More tips and tools to grow your personal brand photography businessLet's Connect:Website: maddiepeschong.comInstagram: @maddiepeschongIf you loved this episode, leave a review! It helps other photographers find the show and keeps us creating content you actually want to hear.

If you’ve been trying to grow your brand photography portfolio, you’ve probably thought about posting a model call. But here’s the thing.. model calls can get messy. You lose control of the creative direction, it’s hard to attract the right kind of client, and suddenly you’re shooting something that doesn’t even align with the work you actually want to be known for.In this episode, we’re talking about how to actually build your portfolio in a way that sets you up for paying clients and better sessions moving forward. I'm sharing my favorite strategy for staying in the driver’s seat and explaining how you can grow your portfolio while still getting paid (or at least still getting massive value).We're talking:Why model calls can do more harm than good for brand photographersThe difference between a model call and a portfolio-building sessionHow to stay in control of your creative direction (and still get your dream shots)How to price your portfolio session so you don’t feel resentfulWhy every shoot should pay you, whether it’s money or marketingDetails about my course, Behind the Shot, and the upcoming live portfolio-building challenge I'm hosting!LINKS & RESOURCES:💻 Join Behind the Shot: my course that teaches you how to price, plan shoot, and deliver brand sessions that attract more dream clients: maddiepeschong.com/behindtheshot✔️ When you join Behind the Shot, you'll be able to join the 3-day portfolio-building challenging I'm hosting December 15-17 (live training + replays available!)📸 Grab the Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: maddiepeschong.com📝 Blog: More tips and tools to grow your personal brand photography businessLET’S CONNECT:Website: maddiepeschong.comInstagram: @maddiepeschongIf you loved this episode, leave a review! It helps other photographers find the show and keeps us creating content you actually want to hear.

You’ve been doing the thing: showing up, marketing, documenting, staying visible... and it’s finally working! Engagement is up, DMs are rolling in, and you’re even getting inquiries.But then you open one and think… “Ugh. This brand sounds so boring.”In this episode, we’re diving into what to do when you get an inquiry from a brand that doesn’t seem exciting to photograph and how to reframe those “boring” brands into some of the most profitable, fulfilling work you’ll do.We’re talking:Why there’s no such thing as a boring brandHow to use storytelling and strategy to make any brand shoot interestingThe mindset shift from “uninspired” to “opportunity-rich”Real-life examples (like dental offices!) and how to find the story within themWhy “boring” clients are often your most lucrative onesBy the end, you’ll see why the best brand photographers aren’t just camera pros; they’re creative directors and storytellers who can make any business shine.LINKS & RESOURCES:📸 Behind the Shot: A self-paced course that teaches you how to plan, shoot, and deliver a portfolio-building brand session (now with brand pricing and discovery call modules!)📝 Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: Grab the client-pleasing checklist I always recommend: maddiepeschong.com💻 Blog: More tips and tools to grow your personal brand photography businessLET’S CONNECT:Website: maddiepeschong.comInstagram: @maddiepeschongIf you loved this episode, leave a review! It helps other photographers find the show and keeps us creating content you actually want to hear.

You know those “what’s in my bag” peeks we all love? Same. I’m endlessly curious about how different photographers get similar results with totally different setups. And while I’m not a gearhead, I’ve learned what’s worth investing in for ease, speed, and consistency... without pretending you need every single shiny thing.In this episode, I’m walking through my current brand-session kit, why I chose each piece, and how I keep lighting simple and flattering so my clients look like the best version of themselves. We’re diving into: what I actually bring to brand shoots in 2025, how I light (without drama), and the small add-ons that make big differences on set.Episode highlights:My camera + lens combo and why I switched to mirrorlessThe zoom that replaced my prime-girl era and why it’s perfect for tight interiorsFlash philosophy: natural-looking light with Profoto A10sGo-to modifiers and when I use eachHeadshot vs. lifestyle setups, tethering and on-site workflow tipsUnsexy-but-essential extrasWhat’s on my wishlist to level up on-locationLINKS & RESOURCES:📸 Behind the Shot: Come behind the scenes of real brand sessions and see my gear + lighting in action☑️ Grab the Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: maddiepeschong.com📝 Blog: More tips and tools to grow your personal brand photography business🛒 Amazon Storefront: Gear items linked here!💬 Have a gear Q? DM me your question or your biggest lighting hurdle!LET’S CONNECT:Website: maddiepeschong.comInstagram: @maddiepeschongIf you loved this episode, leave a review! It helps other photographers find the show and keeps us creating content you actually want to hear.

It’s busy season. Your camera is glued to your hand, your editing queue is packed, and marketing? Yeah, that’s probably collecting dust.But here’s the thing—what you post today is what fills your calendar tomorrow. If you tend to see a slowdown in bookings come December or January, it’s probably because your marketing fell off the map in September and October. It happens every year. But this time? You’re going to do it differently.In this episode, I’m diving deep into a strategy I swear by: documentation marketing. It’s the easiest way to stay consistent on Instagram without creating content from scratch. If batching 30 days of content sounds like your personal nightmare (hi, same), this method is for you.We’re talking:The vicious visibility cycle (and how to break it)Why documenting is more effective than creatingSimple, scroll-stopping content ideas you can capture in real timeHow to build a content rhythm that works for your real lifeMarketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and it definitely doesn’t have to stop just because you’re booked and busy. This episode will help you stay top of mind, even when you don’t have a ton of time.LINKS & RESOURCES:📱 Follow along with The Consistency Cure series on Instagram📸 Grab the Ultimate Personal Brand Session Shot List: maddiepeschong.com📝 Blog: More tips and tools to grow your personal brand photography business💬 Want more BTS tips like this? DM me your biggest struggle with Instagram right now.LET’S CONNECT:Website: maddiepeschong.comInstagram: @maddiepeschongIf you loved this episode, leave a review! It helps other photographers find the show and keeps us creating content you actually want to hear.

Doors to Rebrand close TONIGHT and I'm breaking down all the systems inside the program to make sure you don't slip through the cracks, plus the mindset shift you need to make to get results inside a new program every single time. Join Rebrand: https://maddiepeschong.com/rebrand

So many brand photographers struggle with what to post on Instagram. Some go completely quiet because they feel stuck, while others show up daily but still aren’t booking clients. The truth? It’s not just about consistency. It’s about posting the right kind of content that actually converts.In this episode of Take It Personally, I’m sharing the five types of content that booked-out brand photographers are using to stand out, build trust, and turn followers into paying clients. These strategies are simple, sustainable, and designed to help you show up with confidence and intention.What you'll learn in this episode:The two biggest struggles photographers face with Instagram contentWhy “just showing up” isn’t enough to attract new clientsFive categories of content that consistently book clientsHow to shift your Instagram from a stagnant portfolio to a client-generating toolA sneak peek into my Booked Out & In Demand masterclassCONNECT WITH MADDIE:InstagramWebsiteLINKSGrab your free spot in my Booked Up and In-Demand Masterclass: September 23 at noon CST - learn the content system that fills your calendar with premium clientsRebrand Group CoachingUltimate Personal Brand Session Shot List – Free DownloadFull show notes

I will never stop sharing my love for social media. Why? Because it’s one of the most powerful tools we have as business owners. And yet, so many photographers I work with are afraid of it. They worry about being vulnerable, about what showing up online says about them, and as a result, they hold back.But here’s the truth: these limiting beliefs are keeping you from booking clients on Instagram. It doesn’t matter how solid your strategy is or how many content ideas you have—if you can’t work through these beliefs, you’ll struggle to see results.In this episode, I’m breaking down the most common beliefs I hear (and have struggled with myself!) and how to start talking back to those scary voices in your head so you can finally use social media to connect with the right people and book more clients.What you'll learn in this episode:Why “nobody cares” and “I’m not that interesting” are lies you’re telling yourselfHow practicing is the only way to get better at showing up onlineWhy your life doesn’t need to look perfectly aesthetic to attract clientsHow to share what feels comfortable while still making genuine connectionsWhy “professionalism” doesn’t mean hiding who you areThe power of recognizing your red flag thoughts and shifting them into possibilityCONNECT WITH MADDIE:InstagramWebsiteLINKSGrab your free spot in my Booked Up and In-Demand Masterclass: September 23 at noon CST - learn the content system that fills your calendar with premium clientsRebrand Group CoachingUltimate Personal Brand Session Shot List – Free DownloadFull show notes

You’ve been told you need to show up consistently on Instagram...so you do. But instead of clients rolling in, you’re left wondering if posting is even worth it. Maybe your consistency hasn’t paid off, or maybe you’ve been ghosting your account altogether. Either way, if Instagram isn’t bringing in new bookings, it’s not about the app. It’s about your content strategy.In this episode of Take It Personally, I'm breaking down the three types of Instagram posts that actually get clients to book you. I'm sharing real examples, how to position yourself as the go-to brand photographer, and how storytelling can make your content more effective. If you’ve been frustrated with Instagram, this is the strategy shift you need.01:08 – Why posting on Instagram isn’t working for many photographers02:16 – The 3 types of Instagram posts to get booked03:00 – Reputation-building content05:56 – Rapport-building content09:40 – Relationship-building content19:54 – Focus on your content strategy, not just consistency20:19 – 21 Day Instagram ChallengeCONNECT WITH MADDIE:InstagramWebsiteLINKSJoin my 21-Day Instagram Challenge happening inside a private IG chat starting September 1st—simple, daily prompts that help you stay consistent and get visible so you can get more inquiries from IG. 👉 DM me “challenge” on Instagram @maddiepeschong to join us!Rebrand Group CoachingUltimate Personal Brand Session Shot List – Free DownloadFull show notes

As photographers, it can feel natural to use Instagram as a portfolio—posting your most recent work with simple captions like “Loved this session!” or “Isn’t she gorgeous?” But if you’ve been doing that consistently and wondering why you’re not booking clients, there’s a reason: Instagram isn’t meant to be your portfolio.In this episode of Take It Personally, I'm sharing why using Instagram only to showcase your work keeps you from connecting with your ideal clients and booking sessions. I'm also showing how to shift from treating your feed like a gallery to creating an engaging brand experience—one that builds trust, answers client questions before they ever inquire, and ultimately gets you booked.If you’ve ever felt frustrated that posting pretty photos isn’t leading to results, this episode will give you a clear strategy to change that.01:07 — The viral Threads post that sparked this conversation02:16 — Why using Instagram like a portfolio keeps photographers stuck03:22 — Common posting mistakes03:56 — Building connection and brand experience04:40 — Sharing work strategically06:50 — Practical post examples and client concerns09:42 — Building trust through personal stories10:25 — Brand storytelling and standing out11:07 — 21-day Instagram challenge inviteCONNECT WITH MADDIE:InstagramWebsiteLINKSJoin my 21-Day Instagram Challenge happening inside a private IG chat starting September 1st—simple, daily prompts that help you stay consistent and get visible so you can get more inquiries from IG. 👉 DM me “challenge” on Instagram @maddiepeschong to join us!Rebrand Group CoachingUltimate Personal Brand Session Shot List – Free DownloadFull show notes

If your Instagram feed is filled with nothing but sneak peeks and “look how gorgeous this session was” captions, we need to talk. Instagram is not your portfolio; it’s the experience of your brand.When you treat it like a dusty portfolio, you run out of content quickly and blend in with every other photographer. But when you start treating it like an experience, one great brand session can fuel your feed for 30 days (or more).In this episode, I’m sharing how to stop overthinking, use your sessions more strategically, and turn a single shoot into a month’s worth of posts that build reputation, rapport, relationships, and true embodiment of your brand.01:45 – The problem with using Instagram as a portfolio03:29 – Creating content that works harder for you07:08 – Building reputation: introducing yourself and your work09:39 – Building rapport through storytelling14:56 – Building relationships through social proof22:19 – Embodying your brand authentically24:10 – Repurposing content effectively27:34 – Join the 21-day Instagram challengeCONNECT WITH MADDIE:InstagramWebsiteLINKSJoin my 21-Day Instagram Challenge happening inside a private IG chat starting September 1st—simple, daily prompts that help you stay consistent and get visible so you can get more inquiries from IG. 👉 DM me “challenge” on Instagram @maddiepeschong to join us!Rebrand Group CoachingUltimate Personal Brand Session Shot List – Free DownloadFull show notes

Ever found yourself slammed with client work and thinking, “I don’t need to post to Instagram right now—I’m booked!” …only to be staring at an empty inbox a few months later wondering where everyone went?Yep. I’ve been there. This is what I call the vicious visibility cycle, and it’s time to break it.In this episode, we’re diving into:Why your fully booked season now could mean crickets laterThe sneaky lag time between showing up and booking outWhy marketing is a non-negotiable if you want long-term successHow to stay visible without burning yourself outShifting from “content creation” to documentation marketingPlus, I’m sharing more about my brand new 21-Day Instagram Challenge happening inside a private IG chat starting September 1st—simple, daily prompts that help you stay consistent and get visible so you can get more inquiries from IG.👉 DM me “challenge” on Instagram @maddiepeschong to join us!Links & Resources:Join the 21-Day Instagram Challenge – DM “challenge”Rebrand Group CoachingUltimate Personal Brand Session Shot List – Free Download

You want to charge four figures for brand photography, whether that’s $1,000 or $5,000. But deep down, if you’re still crossing your fingers that your clients are happy with their photos or treating every session like a guessing game, it’s going to be hard to raise your prices with confidence.In this episode of Take It Personally, we’re talking about the one mistake that might be holding you back from charging what your work is worth: not having a strategic, repeatable process behind your sessions. I'm walking you through why your clients are looking for ROI, not just pretty photos, and how a thoughtful brand photography process creates results, for your clients and your business.If you’re tired of feeling unsure about your pricing, nervous on shoot day, or unsure how to talk about the value you provide, this episode is a must-listen.1:07 — The mistake that’s keeping you from charging four figures1:40 — Why your photos need more than “just vibes” to be premium2:57 — My client Roxanne: from unsure to confidently charging $3K+3:53 — What clients really get from brand photography6:27 — The importance of consistent client experience9:04 — Repeatable strategy = premium pricing + better referrals9:55 — Why strategic planning helps your clients (and your time!)12:30 — How to build confidence and charge more12:50 — Three things to focus on for strategic sessions15:57 — What’s inside Behind the Shot16:33 — Live call details in BTS + new pricing module17:16 — How to join the course and get $150 off!CONNECT WITH MADDIE:InstagramWebsiteLINKSBehind the Shot: the full system of planning, posing, shooting, and delivering, so you can stop feeling like an imposter and start showing up like the expert brand photographer you are. $150 off with code SUMMER25!The August summer sprint inside BTS includes live calls, a new pricing module, and the accountability you've been needing to actually finish the courseRoxanne's TIP podcast episodeFull show notes

Lighting can feel so intimidating—especially if you’re used to relying only on natural light. I used to be that photographer who prayed for big windows and white walls and sweated at the thought of using flash. But once I started actually practicing with artificial light, it completely changed my confidence behind the camera.In this episode, I’m sharing the lighting setups I use most often during brand sessions—from natural light to flash to strobes—and how to know which one to use when. Plus, we’re diving into why lighting isn’t just technical, it’s part of your brand.Here’s what we’re talking about:My journey from natural-light-only to confidently using artificial lightThe exact gear I use on brand shoots (hello, Profoto A10 😍)Why modified natural light is my go-to setupHow lighting helps create a cohesive, elevated brand portfolioWhat’s included in Behind the Shot and why now’s the perfect time to join✨ Join Behind the Shot and get $150 off with code SUMMER25: maddiepeschong.com/behindtheshotThe August summer sprint inside BTS includes live calls, a new pricing module, and the accountability you’ve been needing to actually finish the course.

Ever wonder what the client experience actually looks like inside a premium brand photography business? In this episode, I'm walking you through the exact workflow I use with every single client—from initial inquiry to gallery delivery and beyond. You’ll hear about the systems, templates, automations, and even the personal touches that make a huge difference. If managing your clients feels messy or exhausting, this episode is your permission to simplify it.Plus, don’t miss the invite to my free webinar with Colie James where we’ll help you streamline your client experience and charge more with less stress.0:00 – Why client experience workflows matter2:15 – Why every client starts with my contact form4:50 – The first email they get after inquiring7:05 – How I set up calls and book discovery sessions9:30 – The discovery call map that leads to more bookings12:20 – Proposals, automations, and payment reminders14:45 – My onboarding email and when I send questionnaires17:10 – How I outsource shoot guides (and why that’s been a game changer)19:20 – Invitation to the free workflow webinarCONNECT WITH MADDIE:InstagramWebsiteLINKSJuly 17 Webinar with Colie James: Charge More Stress Less - Learn how to automate the sales process for your luxury brand photography offer. Save your spot now!Dubsado: 20% offHoneybook: 25%Cloudspot: 50% offImagenEvoto creditsMy photoshoot planning guide templateFull show notes

If you've ever avoided setting up automations in your business because you're scared something will break, sound robotic, or feel impersonal, this episode of Take It Personally is for you.In this episode, I’m sharing a little tough love and a whole lot of encouragement for those of you who are automation-curious but stuck in perfectionism. I’ll walk you through real-life examples from my own brand photography business and show you how automations can actually give you more space for personal touch, creativity, and freedom. You don’t have to babysit your inbox forever. Let’s talk about what’s really holding you back—and how to fix it.01:30 Why I avoided automations too (and what changed my mind)03:40 What’s really holding you back from setting up workflows05:15 Automations don’t have to be robotic07:10 A behind-the-scenes look at how my CRM is set up09:00 What to do if you’re scared of sending something by accident11:35 Why human error is not the end of the world14:00 Strategic automation vs. intentional personal touch16:15 Why automations create more space for connection18:10 Final pep talk (plus your invite to the free webinar!)CONNECT WITH MADDIE:InstagramWebsiteLINKSJuly 17 Webinar with Colie James: Charge More Stress Less - Learn how to automate the sales process for your luxury brand photography offer. Save your spot now!Dubsado: 20% offHoneybook: 25%Full show notes

Feeling like your brand photography biz runs you during busy seasons (and disappears during slow ones)? This episode is your permission slip to take a break, without your business falling apart. I'm breaking down the three essential workflows every brand photographer should have in place to run a streamlined, premium-feeling business that keeps booking even when you're off the grid.These automations will help you simplify your backend, lighten your mental load, and create an experience that gets clients talking (and referring). Whether you’re still sending paper contracts or already dabbling with CRMs like HoneyBook or Dubsado, you’ll walk away from this episode with easy, actionable ideas to uplevel your process.Want even more help building a premium brand? Colie James and I are hosting a free masterclass: Charge More, Stress Less, on July 17th to help you set up workflows that help you book dream clients, save hours every week, and make your brand feel premium. Grab your free spot here!1:40 Why summer slow seasons don’t mean your business has to stop4:20 The power of automations (and what they really do for your brand)6:15 The inquiry workflow automation and creating a strong first impression9:20 The onboarding + delivery workflow (think start to finish steps for client)17:35 Why communication matters more than speed for editing21:10 The offboarding workflow and increasing rebookings and referrals26:25 How these automations make you look premium and stand out to commercial clients29:45 Getting started: simple places to begin automating todayCONNECT WITH MADDIE:InstagramWebsiteLINKSJuly 17 Webinar with Colie James: Charge More Stress Less - Learn how to automate the sales process for your luxury brand photography offer. Save your spot now!Dubsado: 20% offHoneybook: 25%Full show notes