The Pet Photographers Club Podcast Archives

If you’ve been reading my emails, you’ll already know that The Pet Photographers Club is coming to a close. But this final episode isn’t just a repeat of that news — it’s something a little more personal.I’m sharing the story behind the decision, what the Club has meant to me over the years, and a few parting thoughts I hope will stay with you. Plus, there’s one last gift before the doors close for good.In this final episode, you’ll hear:Why now felt like the right time to step awayA few incredible photographers I recommend learning fromOne piece of advice I hope you’ll carry with youWhat’s next for me The All Access Lifetime Pass - your chance to access the archives foreverThanks for being part of this journey. p.s. 💥 The entire podcast archive — extended interviews, member exclusives, and all our resources — is available as part of the All Access Lifetime Pass until June 30 for just $78. Grab yours here: https://learn.thepetphotographersclub.com/all-access-pass/

Today’s guest isn’t a specialist pet photographer, but she is running a successful marketing campaign that we could all take inspiration from. I invited her on the show thinking that her Heart Horses project would be the focus of the episode and while we did dive into that, she also shared so much more.I’m talking about Bethany Quinn who got super honest about burnout, trying new things, and what’s worked (and what hasn’t) in her business over the last 10+ years and how she is consistently booking clients who spend anywhere from $3500 to 10k.There’s a ton of good stuff in this one—let’s get into it! In this episode:From volunteering at fun horse shows to running a profitable photography businessHow the “Heart Horses” project helped Bethany find her nicheWhat self-care looks like when launching a creative projectWhy she charges for project participation—and how that changes the client dynamicThe moment that sparked the idea for her campaignHow introducing horse photography changed her businessIn the members-only extended episode:Marketing to a brand new genre (and getting it right)Posting about campaigns inside Facebook Groups (without being spammy)Special project pricing strategiesWhat Bethany includes in her average saleHow she handles hair and makeup pricingThe role mentors have played in her business growth

Five years ago, today’s guest was completing a university degree, trying to decide if she’d join the Air Force, continue studying to become a vet, or- if she’d turn her love for photographing pets into a business.She chose the third and has grown a very profitable business that allows her to travel throughout the country.I’m talking about Australian pet photographer Courtney Bennet and in today’s episode, you’ll hear where her clients find her, how she started with commercial photography and what she’s changing to avoid burnout to ensure her business is sustainable. WE COVEREDCourtney’s road into pet photography Is there anything wrong with being a hobbyist pet photographerHow long each client takes CourtneyRecoginising burn out and what she’ll changeE-commerce - how does that work90 minute sessions Travelling around Australia IN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODEAre the travel shoots worth it?How much does each client spend How do e-commerce clients find youHow do private clients find youSenior special products - Lasting memories Deciding on productsClient response to “no DM replies” and no travel LINKSwww.courtraitsphotography.comwww.instagram.com/courtraits www.facebook.com/courtraits

A few episodes back, I had Emily Allen on the show, and as we wrapped up, she gave me a hot tip—"You need to check out Sarah Lane!"Curious, I did a quick search, and it was immediately clear why Emily recommended her. Sarah has built a thriving photography business by diversifying her income in countless ways. Even in the early stages of her journey, she’s already hitting six figures—thanks to her relentless dedication (and, as you’ll hear, a serious lack of sleep!).If you're just starting out, Sarah’s story will be both inspiring and relatable, as she openly shares the challenges of building a business from the ground up. And for long-time listeners, you won’t want to miss the second half of the episode, where we dive into a fresh marketing strategy that’s brand new to the show—exclusively for members. If you haven’t joined yet, now’s the perfect time!WE COVEREDHow work in the equine industry led to professional photography Private Photo Tours & WorkshopsJuggling everythingHow free shoots have helped Sarah growIN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODEOffering horse shoots for non-horse people How one offer lifted Sarah’s confidence The importance of safety and liability What Sarah’s clients are buying Shownotes here: http://thepetphotographersclub.com/1710

Today’s guest lost her soul dog a couple of years ago. Through sharing her story, she ended up connecting with many pet parents and now 70% of her clients are senior and end of life sessions. I’m talking about Darlene Woodward and if you’ve ever felt guilty about charging for end of life sessions- this episode is for you. Darlene shared how she worked through the guilt of charging for end of life sessions and we also went into the process of working with a copywriter to help share the appropriate message with your audience. If you’re a member, you’ll also learn what Darlene’s clients are buying, how much their spending and what her plan is to increase that average sale next year- as well as how she has the time to provide such a great service to her clients.WE COVERED00:00 Introduction to Darlene Woodward's Journey01:10 Welcome to the Pet Photographers Club02:04 Darlene's Best Year Ever03:18 The Importance of Senior and End-of-Life Sessions08:41 Marketing Strategies and Client Acquisition09:57 Dealing with Guilt and Justifying Charges13:32 Revamping Website Copy for Better Client ConnectionIN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODE23:10 The Importance of Your About Page24:12 Conversion Rates and Inquiries24:47 Handling Pricing and Client Expectations28:11 Highlighting Unique Selling Points29:41 Sales Goals and Strategies39:10 Outsourcing for Efficiency43:26 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsLINKShttps://pantthetown.com/ https://www.facebook.com/pantthetown https://www.instagram.com/pantthetownphotography/

If you’ve ever heard photographers talking about partnering with other businesses but the idea of introducing yourself seems way too scary- today’s episode is for you. Before becoming a pet photographer, today’s guest, Monique Eckes worked in vet clinics for 15 years. She used her insider knowledge and just her genuinely lovely personality to be honest, to create her approach which has been wildly successful and she shares exactly what that looks like, with you.We also discussed Monique’s weekly newsletter- yes weekly- including what she writes and if it’s worth the time.The second half of the interview really dived into the in’s and out’s of surrounding yourself with the right supports from coaches to networking groups. And we touched on her plans for B2B for pet photographers too. WE COVEREDFrom managing a vet practise to pet photography How volunteering led to Monique’s business, and why she kept doing it for so many yearsWhat goes into Monique’s weekly newsletter and is it worth the timeHow Monique has built her email listHow to get involved in local dog related events How Monique approaches other businesses Monique’s tips for making it easier to approach businessesIN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODEHow personal growth leads to business growthBusiness before and after coaches Taking the step to move into a bigger studio spaceWorking with a business coach who isn’t a photographer but a consumer of photographers What’s the difference between a business coach and a life coach- and which do I need?B2B for pet photographersMonique’s income breakdown Choosing networking groups to join and how to make the most of it How much does a networking groups costAre the fees worth it for networking groups

Today’s guest gives back to her community and the result is huge- she even has her photos on beers cans! But until a couple of year ago she was shooting too much for too little and so she engaged a business coach to help her increase her annual profit. As part of that process, she as encouraged to dig deep into her why- and what she discovered lead her to implementing an incredibly beautiful and profitable project. I’m talking about Emily Allen who has increased her average sale four fold by following the advice of Karinda K. We discussed all that in members half of this interview- but in the first half, among other things, you’ll hear how and why Emily made the move into a shares studio space and how she keeps paying rent year round even though she doesn’t go in summer. As you can tell, we covered a lot in this interview, so no matter what stage of your business you’re in, there’s sure to be a take away for you. WE COVEREDWhat is Emily’s area like How sharing a studio works and why Emily opted to go that routeManaging client expectations when changing their booked outdoor session to in-studio due to weatherHow Emily’s clients find out about her How Emily’s photos ended up on beer cans- and how it helps her business!Justifying pricing IN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODEHow and why Emily increased her prices when her average was already $750 Working with a coachThe impact of increasing her sale by 4xWhat people buy, and what the cost of goods are Changes to Emily’s website to avoid phone calls - and if it’s helpedStorytelling: A Dog's Life, A Woman's StoryLinks in the show notes: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1707

Today’s guest fell into an incredible opportunity that she intelligently took full advantage of and has since replicated that with other partners.I’m talking about part-time pet photographer Lisa Olsen who sets up a photobooth at events held by other businesses, especially to gift their clients a free photo of their dogs- and, the businesses pay her to be there!While she’s there she’s made sure her process encourages the participants to book a full photoshoot with her, and from these events alone she is booking 80+ shoots a year and doesn’t need to do any other marketing to hit her goals.She shared the in’s and out’s for the members, as well as her pricing strategy, but in the free half you’ll catch a few tips about these events, as well as Lisa’s other photo types and join our discussion about mental health. WE COVEREDPut them to work - pet parents Your website clearly defines the types of sessions you offer: Dog portraits, Puppy Portraits, Puppy Cakesmash, Mommy and me, Family Photos, Celebration of life and Holiday Theme! - Other than being listed on your website, are you actively advertising all these types of shoots at once?Which session type is bringing in the most clients, and importantly most revenue? What happens with the Mommy and me sessionsOne of the best ways I’ve gotten client referrals in 2024 has been doing Events with Pets. A business will hire me to be the dog photographer at their event. The business (such as dog groomers, pet sitter, dog trainers, realtors, vets…..) will do all the marketing to their current clients and potential clients to come to their event and receive one free photo from me. I’m usually the main attraction at the events so it’s been great for brand recognition and client  referrals, plus the business is paying me. This has also lead to doing business portraits with pet for those in the pet industry. How long Lisa is spending with her clients How Lisa ensures the dog is ready for the studio session with desensitization How photography helps Lisa’s mental health and how she balances that with running a profitable businessMaking lollipops as props IN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODEEvents with Pets How Lisa got started with offering events for pets Package prices for the businessHow many dogs Lisa photographs at these events and how they work on the dayWhich industry makes the best business partners for events for petsHow much help does Lisa give the partners for marketing the events Why Lisa doesn’t take or sell additional photos at the events for the clients Your packages are digital based with a set number of images in each, and a small amount of print credit. With this structure, are you relying also on print sales, or is it more a bit of a bonus for you if they purchase something in print?What percentage of clients are using the print credit?How much extra do most people spend beyond their package?

Today’s guest has been in business for 12 years and tried a lot during that time. Last year she decided the risk was worth it and gave up her old business name along with the decade plus of brand recognition that came with it, and rebranded to better align her business with her personality and shooting style.I’m talking about Lindsay Baca who credits defining her style to great coaches at an international workshop. We chatted all about that, her journey in business including her recent rebrand. And for members, there’s a discussion about commercial work in there for you too.WE COVEREDLindsay’s journey over 12 years from make-up artist to full time pet photographer and everything in betweenThe impact of running multiple brands When Lindsay realised something needed to change for her businessWorking with coaches to find her styleIN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODEHow Lindsay felt about losing her brand recognition when she rebranded The process of getting the new logo designedDo magazine ad’s bring clients The average spend of Lindsay’s private clientsHow many clients Lindsay has per monthWhy Lindsay is happy to refer out clientsThe type of commercial clients Lindsay works with and how they find herThe benefits of a model search databaseShownotes here: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1705

There’s something for everyone in this interview with Australian equine photographer, Brooklyn Coverdale.She built a successful business in a short period by niching down in western event coverage and portraits- a speciality that wasn’t really being serviced by other photographers. Since moving to a small rural town, Brooklyn began diversifying her local offerings all while staying within her style and the western/farming world.  We dived into the ins and outs of all that in part one and for the members, you’ll hear how she uses ambassadors and why Brooklyn has stopped offering content creation even though it pays well- and what she’s doing instead. WE COVEREDNiching down as a strategic decision Western coverage & western portraits & ram and bull sales Diversifying genres changing locationHow ambassadors helped Brooklyn grow her audience IN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODEAmbassador searchThe big red flag when looking for ambassadorsThe agreement between photographer and ambassador How to know when to dissolve an agreement The bonus of working with ambassadors for your creativity Content Creation & Social Media Management How Brooklyn booked those first content creation jobs Breakdown of income Show notes can be found at: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1704

I initially had just one question prepared for today’s guest, Belinda Richards, and it wasn’t anything to do with PR. Yet we just spent over half of this interview diving into why Belinda is putting most of her marketing energy into getting newspaper articles, blog posts and even a radio show segment! And let me tell you- the information she shared will make you go back to your client avatar, look at where they go for information and find a way to feature there.In the member’s half Belinda shared her top tips for getting free publicity and then we moved on to her approach for successful expos- which really had little to do with being there on the day. I took us well over time but I know you’ll be glad because the episode is full of so many great take aways, oh and eventually I did get to my one question- how and why Frog Dog studios is charging for pre-shoot consults?WE COVEREDWhy Belinda began entering awards and the impact on her businessClient trust- how do you make sure that your audience knows about the awardsWhy Belinda doesn’t work with a PR Agent SEO impact from the backlinks of the online publications Client demographic that comes from printed media Who is the client Belinda wants to work with nowHow far Frog Dog Studio’s clients travel for to work with Belinda IN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODEBelinda’s top tips for getting PR - who to contact, how and what to sayThe marketing strategy that Belinda has pivoted away from, and whyHow Belinda approached expo’sA decision doesn’t have to be forever The story behind the studio shop frontCharging for pre-shoot consultationsBelinda’s conversion rate from consultation to booking Links in the show notes: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1703

Today’s guest has been in business for a long time- and you can tell. She is thinking outside the box with her marketing while also ensuring she has a layered approach to fill her calendar. I’m talking about Lisa Asp who beyond that, is heavily involved with PPA and ISAP so after chatting marketing she answered your questions about joining a photography association and the different awards and competitions that are out there.WE COVEREDLisa’s journey from the dream of being a painting major to shifting gears into photography How a rescue encouraged Lisa’s business to transition into pets from general portraitsHow Lisa uses social mediaMarketing a specialised studio versus a general portrait studio Thinking outside the box with passive marketing by partnering with a cafeHow putting yourself out there can lead to new clients and marketing partnershipsWhat is a professional photography association and why would you joinIN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODEHow to find an association to join for professional photographersWhat's the deal with competitions and awards, and which should you enterHeadshots for houndsKnowing when to say no to fundraisersShow notes can be found here: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1702

Do you groan every time you hear another coach or podcast guest talk about the importance of phone calls or pre-shoot consultations? Then this interview will be a breath of fresh air for you! Today’s guest, Jessica Wasik, is on track to hit a quarter of a million dollars in annual revenue- without phone calls for most of her 80+ bookings a year!She shared what she does instead and the importance of systems along with a whole lot of other insights. And if you’re a member, you’ll even hear my of my recent rookie mistake!WE COVEREDWhere Jessica’s clients come from each yearHow much are Jessica’s gift certificatesClient communication to ensure gift voucher clients spend Jessica’s booking fee, how much her clients spend and what they’re purchasingIN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODEBooked out for the next two months - what does that meanNumber of sessions per monthGoal for next year How knowing your numbers helps mindset for assuming the saleThe real reason people don’t book Boundaries and policies that have made the biggest difference Kirstie’s recent rookie mistakeMarketing and selling vouchers What Jessica’s Black Friday sale includes and how she promotes itRainbow sessions Pre-purchase credit Mentioned links can be found here: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1701

I initially reached out to today's guest to chat all about her Facebook group for pet parents, and we did get into the details of that but we also covered much more because today’s guest was a complete open book! I’m talking about Allira Fontana and if you’re considering offering event photography for horse shows, the first part will certainly be of interest to you. Then we switched gears and chatted about that Facebook group- why she started it, how it grew and why Allira isn’t worried about losing clients with it. If you’re a member- you’re really in for a treat, and maybe even a bit of a wake-up call. Allira shared the importance of understanding animal behaviour as a pet and equine photographer- and how she went about learning that, and then we got into her marketing strategies. If you’re looking at an empty calendar, hearing Allira list off her upcoming marketing calendar will be quite the eye-opener! I don’t think I’ve ever had an interview with such variety so no matter what stage of business you’re in- be sure to tune in.We Covered:From Horse Events to Private Sessions Burnout from Horse EventsFulfillment from private sessionsHow Horse Events work financiallyRecognising what makes you happy and following thatRecognising burnout, taking a break and re-assessing Pricing for horse showsThe ultimate training ground for learning dog behaviourRelaunching the change in business model Why start a Facebook group with photo tips for pet-parentsDiversifying income For members-only:The goal of the Facebook groupAre you losing your clients by teaching them?Certificate in animal behaviourWorking with a coachHow clients find Allira Fontana Photography todayWhat are people buying Mentioned links can be found in the show notes: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1612********DIRECTORY UPDATEThe new and improved Pet Photographers Directory is now live! You can claim your free listing, or upgrade to a premium listing for extra backlinks to tell Google that you’re a trusted site so they improve your ranking.Find out more at https://www.petphotographersdirectory.com/ 

We’ve heard it before, business is not for the faint-hearted and today’s guest agrees.I’m talking about Alex Cearns who’s been in business for 15 years and has worked with pet photographers from all corners of the globe. We covered many topics including the usual business structures, marketing and products, but the common theme throughout was not to let fear hold you back in business. If you’ve caught yourself getting down after comparing your average sales to other photographers, or beating yourself up over the peaks and troughs of business, Alex’s message is sure to hit home.In the members second-half, Alex shared how she’s booking 250 clients a year, what they’re buying, why they don’t ask for digitals and her thoughts on social media for marketing.There’s great takeaways from this episode no matter what stage you’re at in business, so tune in!We covered:The business structure of Houndstooth StudioCharacteristics to be successfulBusiness is not lineaFake it ‘til you make itGet in front of people and talk passionately about what you doHow to appreciate where you’re currently at with your sales when you see your friends making 5 figuresIN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODE:Organic bookings are all but dead, so how is Alex booking 250 shoots a year?What clients are buyingSocial media expectationsWhat one thing has the biggest impact on a successful businessMentioned links can be found in the show notes here: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1611

Over the last few years I’ve seen how trends have changed and pet photographers around the world have introduced new business models and pricing structures.But today’s guest is the exception. She found what works for her early on, and she’s sticking to it. By pricing herself this way she is consistently hitting her averages, and attracting the type of client she wants- all by word of mouth! I’m talking about Jane Thomson whose work is pure art and just gorgeous, and I am stoked to have her on the show today.We covered:Jane’s journey from $350 shoots to the structure she uses todayWhat gives Jane the confidence to ask for the money upfrontHow clients respond when they’re told about the minimum collection IN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODE:What Jane’s clients are buying The client experienceHow Jane sells products, without In Person Sales!How Jane’s clients find herAll about the charity project and why Jane took it onMentioned links are in the show notes found here: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1610***CLUB CHANGESFor the first time since the launch of The Pet Photographers Club six years ago, a price rise is coming.That price rise is because the new membership structure will include over $150 worth of bonus content for monthly members and even more for annual members. Of course, there is also 16 seasons of interviews in the archives of the podcast! That's a lot of valuable content collected over the years!Don't worry existing members- your payments won't change. The new price is only for new sign-ups from 1st October 2024.Not yet a member? You can lock in the current low price. Sign up now.

We often hear educators saying that you can find clients anywhere. I know I say it, and I believe it because we really need so few clients per year that we can find enough no matter where we live- well almost.Today’s guest agrees, but she also pointed out that some markets are easier than others which is why she happily travels two hours to her client shoots back in Boston, instead of trying to find clients in her new hometown.By making this decision, she also realised she had to make more money per client. So two years ago, Blue Amrich re-designed her business model to meet that new required average sale. In today's episode, she shared what Beyond the Fence looked like then and the biggest change she made to ensure that drive is worth it.We covered:Moving into pets because "dogs are better than brides"What happened when Blue stopped selling digitals Conversion rate from enquiry to selling Why Blue didn't move her business when she moved her homeIt's a numbers game Knowing your client IN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODE:Most people haven't thought about the final result Blue's initial client callPricing and products and profitsWhy Blue is happy to be working seasonallyHow clients are finding Beyond the Fence Why do personal projectsShow notes can be found here: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1609

Today’s guest is absolutely no stranger in this industry. She has been setting standards for pet photographers for a decade or so, but today she’s here not to talk about education, but her own journey as a pet photographer and the changes she’s made throughout the years in order to meet her business goals. I’m talking about none other than Nicole Begley and I’m wrapped to have her joining us today.WE COVERED:The push for Nicole to start a business back in 2010 and her first goalThe wake-up call to switch from $175 all-inclusive sessionsThe impact of attending a conference Nicole's first sale from making that switch, and her average from then onHow Nicole's marketing approach changed to align with her new pricing came in Why Nicole stopped photographing families and went "all in" with photographing petsIN THE MEMBERS-ONLY EXTENDED EPISODE:The confidence boost from a great saleThe mark up Nicole puts on her products to be profitable Money blocks The three different pricing structures Nicole has trialled: Collections, Create your own collection, (including digitals), Al A carte Why Nicole uses digitals as an incentive, and howNicole’s golden first question for enquiriesNicole’s booking process and how she utilises the pre-booking phone callWhy offer a bonus even for clients that have an unlimited budgetFind the show notes here: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1608

I’ve spent a lot of time increasing my SEO knowledge over the last 12 months and I can tell you first-hand that eventually it all pays off..! Even still, there’s always something more to learn, particularly in the ever-changing space of SEO. Today’s guest, Claire Lauer helps photographers rank higher on Google to increase organic bookings and in this episode she shared tonnes of actionable tips to help you do the same as well has her favorite SEO tools. Even after this last 12 months of increasing my knowledge around this topic, I also grabbed some great tops and will be implementing a few changes on my own sites thanks to this episode! If you’d love to have more enquiries coming to you from people who are already searching for the exact thing you offer- amazing pet portraits, then be sure to tune in. We covered:What is SEO and why should we spend time on improving itKeywords and tools for researching themHow to use these keywords in blogging and why The importance of image optimisationHow can someone like Claire help us photographers? In the members-only extended episode:What is a Google Business Profile Claiming, optimising and posting on your google business profile Backlinks: where to get them and whyUnderstanding Domain Authority How long do our blog posts need to be and how can we make the most of them for SEOFind all the mentioned links in the show notes: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1607

Today’s guest, Gabi Leon of Gavriella Pet Photography, moved to the U.S. 4 years ago. In the lead up to her move she laid as many foundations as possible to be ready to hit the ground running. Since then, she’s stayed focused on her goal which is to offer a high-end luxury photography business and build a million dollar business. She isn’t quite getting consistent bookings yet, but the ones she does get, spend enough that it doesn’t matter- which by the way, is on average between $5-6k. She’s gotten creative with her marketing too and in this interview, she shared one strategy that I haven’t heard of before and if you’re aiming for high sales, you could certainly replicate. We covered:What separates Gabi from her local competitionHow Gabi prepared for her move to the U.S. to set up her business for successWhere Gabi went to become known and how she went about it The connection that led to a great opportunity to make a little money, and get great brand awarenessThe reality of setting up a luxury business, without shortcutsGabi's ultimate financial goal and the income avenues she's planning to use to reach itMembers-only interviewGetting clients through a luxury magazine at a retirement villageGabi’s plan to be more consistent The numbers: How often Gabi is photographing, and what the spending clients buy Why offer mini sessions to the agility worldGabi’s plan for building a passive incomeLinks to all things mentioned can be found in the show notes at: https://thepetphotographersclub.com/podcast/1606