Wedding Photography Podcast | How To Become A Successful, Full-time Wedding Photographer | Wedding Photography Tips

EPISODE #39: ANSWERING QUESTIONS FROM WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS PART 1 Where you spend the majority of your time will determine your success in life. Let your wedding photography business be the engine to your life. Treating others the way you want to be treated can create an exceptional customers service experience. When starting from scratch, networking and building genuine connections are key. Road maps: will they be making a comeback? Pick equipment based on their ability to allow you to get the outcome you desire. How do you deal with a difficult bride, post-wedding? Practice makes perfect; get prepared well ahead of time. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction to episode 39. [1:59] Discussing the importance of where you dedicate your time. [5:52] Understanding how your wedding photography business can fuel your hobbies. [7:38] Overview of today's episode. [8:39] First question from Gary; creating exceptional customer service. [17:11] Vince and Gary's question

EPISODE #38: HOW DO I KNOW WHEN OR IF I'M EVER READY TO PHOTOGRAPH WEDDINGS? You have to be your own self-motivation, and have the discipline to gain experience. Utilize your strengths and build your reputation to draw in prospective clients. You cannot wait for the “magical miracle” to jump-start your business. What if you're not progressing anywhere? When is enough enough? Reassessing your progress can be absolutely critical for reaching your goals. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction to episode 38. [7:07] Overview of today's topic. [8:21] The importance of self-motivation. [12:17] Understanding how to build your reputation. [22:46] Discussing why waiting for the magical moment is holding you back. [28:41] How to be real about your lack of progression. [32:30] Knowing when enough is enough. [37:38] Goal setting, and understanding the importance of reassessing your progress. [44:14] Wrap up of the episode and conclusion. [47:47] Coming up on future episodes.

EPISODE #37: BALANCING A FAMILY WHILE RUNNING A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS WITH COCO MCKOWN PHOTOGRAPHY  A history about today's guest, Coco McKown. Getting to know Coco and her journey from bride to wedding photographer. How to know when you can start making a living out of wedding photography. Having loved ones support you and believe in you can propel your wedding photography business forward. A change of perspective; create relationships and be professional and kind. The wedding day positives and challenges for a wedding photographer.  Juggling life, and prioritizing your schedule is an evolution. Tangible tips for aspiring and new wedding photographers. Inspiration for new photographers; a confidence boost from shooting a VIP event with the Vice President. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:30] Introduction and housekeeping things. [4:14] History about our guest, Coco McKown. [6:54] Start of the interview and introduction of Coco McKown. [17:55] Understanding when you

EPISODE #36: GOING FROM COMPLETE STRANGERS TO HAVING A COUPLE BOOK YOU Answering specific wedding photography questions from listeners. Do not get caught in the micro details; remember the main goal. Building your reputation and strengthening referral relationships can open opportunities for your wedding photography business.  Setting up a client meeting; pros and cons of different meeting locations. "Sealing the deal" without being too pushy. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction and updates. [5:07] Overview of the episode topic. [6:58] Answering questions from listeners. [15:25] Discussing the micro goals versus the macro one. [20:02] Understanding how clients find you and how to make a first impression. [24:05] Examples of tracing the source of your clients. [31:29] Learning how to set up a client meeting. [35:43] How to convince the couple to book you, and seal the deal. [41:35] Wrapping up the episode. [43:42] Conclusion. [45:24] Coming up on future episod

EPISODE #35: TOP 10 WAYS TO VALIDATE YOURSELF AS A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER. There is more to wedding photography than being a photographer: reflecting on an email from a listener. The chaos and perks on the battlefield of being a wedding photographer. Validating yourself as a wedding photographer: the top 10 list. Overview of the "Top 10 Ways to Validate Yourself as a Wedding Photographer" list: Produce high quality work. Display a higher quantity and range of work. Have a professional website and logo/brand. Increase the number of reviews you have online. Get your work featured in wedding publications. Establish a strong background in wedding photography. Seek out awards and recognitions. Network in organizations and associations. Host workshops, classes or seminars. Have a strong social media presence. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction to episode 35, and updates. [9:15] Reflecting upon an email from a listener. [13:40] Understanding the

EPISODE #34: THAT ONE TIME I HAD MY CAMERA EQUIPMENT STOLEN AT A WEDDING   How the wedding day excitement and atmosphere creates a perfect opportunity for thieves.  The story: that one time I had my camera equipment stolen at a wedding. Lessons learned from having my camera equipment stolen. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction to the episodes, and updates. [4:42] Premise and overview about episode topic. [8:32] The full story of how my camera equipment got stolen. [30:47] Lessons learned from having my equipment stolen. [44:43] Conclusion and episode wrap up. [46:45] Discussion on what's coming up on future episodes.   Resources and links mentioned in this episode: http://www.aevitasweddings.com — my wedding photography company website. http://www.onlyadayaway.com — my adventure travel blog! https://www.instagram.com/weddingphotographypodcast/ — new Instagram account. http://www.weddingphotographypodcast.com/episode34 — direct link to today’s episode.

EPISODE #33: POSSIBLE CAREER CHANGE INTO WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY? HERE ARE SOME THINGS TO CONSIDER. Introduction to the topic of transitioning into full-time wedding photography. Answering a question from a listener; how to optimize your workflow and save time. Am I really going to do wedding photography full-time? 12 important questions to consider before making the transition. List of things to consider before doing wedding photography full-time: Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: Resources and links mentioned in this episode: http://www.aevitasweddings.com — my wedding photography company website. http://www.onlyadayaway.com — my adventure travel blog! https://www.instagram.com/weddingphotographypodcast/ — new Instagram account. http://www.weddingphotographypodcast.com — the new podcast website. http://www.weddingphotographypodcast.com/episode33 — direct link to today’s episode. weddingphotographypodcast@gmail.com — direct email contact. http://www/weddingphotograp

EPISODE #32: WEDDING DAY TIPS WITH PLANNER EXTRAORDINAIRE NOZZA STUDIO Wedding photographers and wedding planners work hand-in-hand together. A little bit more about Trini Leon. Lessons learned from expanding a business in the wedding industry. Why it's important to have a wedding planner when it comes to wedding photography. The importance of chemistry and working with vendors you can trust. Critical traits of wedding photographers that make them attractive to the wedding coordinator's team. Why it is critical for wedding photographers to think beyond the wedding day. Tips for the bride and groom if they do not have a wedding coordinator. How to build relationships and get referrals from other wedding vendors. Connecting with clients means connecting with your brand. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction to the 32nd episode. [1:35] Background on our guest, Trini Leon, and what she will share today. [5:25] Start of the interview. [7:41] Introduction and more de

EPISODE #31: WORKING ON YOUR BUSINESS VERSUS WORKING IN YOUR BUSINESS Updates and news from my life. Are you a prisoner of your own business? How to recognize if you are on a hamster wheel, not going anywhere with your business. You want to always have control of your business, not the other way around. When you are caught up in the busy-ness, you are only seeing the trees and not the forest beyond them. A few extra hours can change your entire business. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:28] Introduction and shout outs to my listeners. [2:59] Update on what's been happening. [5:05] Discussing why you feel like a prisoner of your business. [7:20] Understanding how to notice that your business is not growing. [18:20] Explaining why it's important to have control. [24:07] Difference between working in your business and on it. [30:13] How outsourcing can create time for you to work on your business. [33:44] Conclusion and feedback reminders. [37:02] Coming up on future episodes

EPISODE #30: WHAT IF I’M GIVEN A PHOTO SHOT LIST FROM MY COUPLE? As a wedding photographer, take a step back from your work and focus on serving your clients. So what do the bride and groom really mean when they give you a shot list? Tips on communicating with your bride and groom regarding their "shot list". Should you even be upset about the shot list? Plan ahead; use a wedding photography questionnaire as a cheat sheet to replace a shot list. What if they come to you with a shot list before they’ve even booked you? Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction to the 30th episode of the Wedding Photography Podcast [1:35] Shout out to one of my listeners, a past groom of mine. [2:31] Reading the review from Kevin, about this podcast. [4:01] Recap of what's been happening in the last couple of days and weeks. [6:46] Discuss the importance of serving your clients first. [11:25] Tips on communicating with the bride and groom about their shot list. [16:33] Should we real

EPISODE #29: THE MOST CHALLENGING BUT REWARDING WEDDING I'VE EVER PHOTOGRAPHED Every wedding certainly is challenging, and every wedding is rewarding. The story: a dinner hangout that lead to a wedding inIndia. What is a visa? Discovering India and meeting the bride and groom. The pre-wedding photoshoot, Mehndi, and Sangeet celebration. The big day, and our journey back to NewDelhi. Expect the unexpected. The biggest challenge of all: fighting the crowds atIndia Gate. The home stretch: getting to the reception. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes:. Outline of this episode: [00:30] Welcome note and an update on what I've been up to recently. [05:28] Break down of certain challenges that you face as a wedding photographer. [07:48] The story of my most challenging but rewarding wedding I've ever photographed. [13:21] The logistics of visiting and working in India. [16:40] Landing in India, and the travel experience. [20:07] Arriving at Neemrana Fort Palace, and finally meeting the bride and groom. [23:31] D

EPISODE #28: WHAT I LEARNED FROM RECENT MEETINGS WITH LOCAL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS Side note: a brand new travel podcast called Only A Day Away, and a recent website facelift.  Follow up to "Jason's" story: client relations is integral to having a successful wedding shoot. To remove the awkward moments, it is paramount to build a rapport with your clients, especially as the second shooter. Honesty, and understanding what you are comfortable with, builds trust. The vision for Aevitas Weddings and how new team members will make it come to life. Common trends from local photographers in the wedding photography business. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [00:26] Welcome and introduction to a new episode in a brand new month. [01:58] Discussing what's been happening the last couple of weeks, including a new podcast launch. [02:49] The podcast website facelift, and what new information you can find there. [04:09] Overview of the episode. [05:23] Reading through a follow up email to "

EPISODE #27: THE SIMILARITIES IN WORKING OUT AND WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY A story from a listener, and what it means to have a humble mindset when pursuing your true passion. Feedback on Larry's message to other photographers: the importance of honesty and being up front. Recent trends in hiring additional help and assistants in wedding photography. What are the similarities between working out and running a wedding photography business? Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [00:26] Introduction of a brand new episode and a recap from the past week. [01:24] Break down of the main points, and how I came up with the title of today's episode. [02:49] Kicking off the podcast with a story from a listener, "Larry". [07:29] Reading out and discussing Larry's message to other wedding photographers. [09:53] Feedback and advice on how to reach out to lead photographers. [15:22] Discussing trends in wedding photography when hiring second shooters/assistants. [20:49] Review of main reasons why I w

EPISODE #26: I'M BACK! PODCAST NAME CHANGE AND STORY FROM A LISTENER. What’s been happening the past couple of weeks, and how I’ve been spending my time during this three week hiatus from the podcast. Why I’m back and what to expect going forward, as the podcast continues to grow. Why the name change? A real life wedding photography story of a listener's feedback and how it adds value to the podcast. Answering Jason’s questions: advice on how to take the leap, and what to do to prepare for the transition. Changes for the future and coming up on future episodes:  Outline of this episode:  [0:30] Introduction to the first episode after a three week hiatus. [1:42] Breakdown of the four main points for this episode. [4:43] Why the name change, and what to expect going forward. [7:21] Detailed discussion about the name change of the podcast. [10:23] Start of the bulk of the episode. [11:48] Reading of the email from a new listener. [15:31] Addressing the questions from "Jason's" email in detail. [26:29] Wrapping u

EPISODE #25: WHY I'M NOT ABLE TO GET MY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS OFF THE GROUND Today's quote: Financial and real-life reasons a person might struggle to get their wedding photography business off the ground. You may find in yourself personality traits and insecurities that could stand in the way of your success in the wedding photography business. There is admittedly a lot to starting and running your own wedding photography business, but DO NOT GET OVERWHELMED! What changes might you need to make to help achieve success with your wedding photography business? Outline of this episode: [00:42] Introduction to this final (for now) episode. [06:45] Examination of a few things keeping one’s business from taking off. [08:30] A couple of financial reasons people have a hard time succeeding in their businesses. [15:55] How family obligations and fear of failure and personality can stand in your way. [23:44] Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed by the amount of options out there or by the business side of your wor

EPISODE #24: WHAT I LEARNED FROM BEING AN ENGINEER AND HOW I'VE APPLIED IT TO MY BUSINESS Today's quote:  Having a “big picture” view and keeping goals in sight have helped me realize success in my wedding photography business. Learning how to work within a team environment is crucial to the success of any wedding photography business. Improve your presentation skills, and your presence, for the benefit of your wedding photography business. Outline of this episode: [00:29] Introduction to this episode and asking for feedback again. [06:20] What I’m doing with these podcasts is not working, so my next one will be the last for now. [11:00] How our prior professions influence our wedding photography business. [14:35] Quick background on my educational background. [17:01] Having a “big picture” view of my business and looking at goals first. [23:58] Learning to work in a team environment and to present your ideas well. [28:33] Being able to work efficiently and systematically is crucial to success. [32:35] Today’

EPISODE #23: HOW TO STAND OUT FROM THE COMPETITION PART 2 Today's quote: When you are convinced that what you offer is yours, whether it be mediocre or of standard quality, your originality will make people love you in a way you did not expect. - Michael Bassey Johnson When it comes to price, most of us fall into the category of being a mid-range wedding photographer. Let your prospective clients get to know you from your website and other promotional materials. It’s key to your success as a full-time wedding photographer! Outline of this episode: [00:30] Introduction and welcome to this episode. [05:10] I’m working harder to stay in touch with colleagues and keep caught up. [11:33] Question to my listeners, looking for feedback. [15:44] How pricing plays into your ability to stand out from the competition. [21:10] The #1 way to make your business stand out when price is involved. [31:20] Personality plays a huge part in making your business stand out. [35:40] How do you show potential clients your personalit

EPISODE #22: HOW TO STAND OUT FROM THE COMPETITION PART 1 Today's quote: Get brides and grooms to contact YOU for maximal success in wedding photography! Knowing your own wedding photography style is the first step toward success in wedding photography. Competition in the wedding photography field has gone up a lot since I started, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find success in wedding photography. Know your competitors in the wedding photography business; you can both work together and help each other out. Outline of this episode: [00:44] Introduction to this episode. [03:35] Plug for my separate project on travel, http://www.onlyadayaway.com. [09:21] The bottom line is the need to book weddings, and therefore the need to stand out from the competition. [12:30] You can either be a good photographer or a cheap one. [16:02] It’s okay not to be absolutely perfect, just get your best foot out there! [21:20] YOU are unique and will make you stand out, but balance that with marketing yourself wisely. [24:39] Can

EPISODE #21: 3PS OF THE BUSINESS: PHOTOGRAPHY, PRICING, AND PERSONALITY PART 2 Today's quote: Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated. - Confucius Your wedding photography business is not just a hobby, it’s a business: you need it to realize a profit and make you a good living! Pricing includes things like licensing and insurance, both of which have to be given careful consideration when you set up your wedding photography business. Investing wisely in your wedding photography business is investing in your future! Market your wedding photography business wisely, weighing your costs against the payoffs. Outline of this episode: [00:30] Welcome and introduction to this episode. [02:12] An explanation of my website’s current situation and what lies ahead. [08:41] Overview of the pricing and personality aspects of my business. [10:50] Discussion of the pricing aspect of the business. [19:05] Savings, investing, and medical insurance are important considerations for self-employed persons. [27

EPISODE #20: 3PS OF THE BUSINESS: PHOTOGRAPHY, PRICING, AND PERSONALITY PART 1 Today's quote: The first of the three Ps of your wedding photography business: Photography The four subsets of the huge “photography” category. The other, equally important Ps: Pricing and Personality Branding: What kind of image does your business have? Outline of this episode: [00:33] Introduction to this episode. [06:35] Wearing the photographer hat is only part of the business. [08:15] Overview of the three Ps of this business. [16:10] The importance of breaking your business tasks down into manageable chunks. [23:20] Four subsets of the first P, photography. [30:33] Branding: how your brand and image tie into all three Ps. [36:50] How my personality evolved into the brand I needed to run my business. [41:16] The importance of continued education in building your business. [43:01] Topics to come: Client experience and the wedding day itself. Resources and links mentioned in this episode: http://www.weddingphotographybusinessp