Freedom Focus Photography

Latest Episodes:

The Sale-Killing Mistake You’re Probably Making Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

288 - What if I told you that your assumptions about what a client can spend have nothing to do with reality—and everything to do with your mindset?

Ever looked at a client’s house, car, or outfit and thought, “They’ll never spend that much”? Or maybe the opposite—expecting a huge sale based on their zip code? In this episode, Heather and I break down why judging your clients' wallets is a dangerous game—and how it’s probably costing you real money.

What to Listen For:

The real reason your brain tries to predict client spending
Why judgment is usually more about you than them
What “clean thinking” means and how it improves your sales
How disappointment-avoidance is sabotaging your business
A mindset shift that instantly makes sales conversations easier
What silence during a sales conversation actually means
Why two clients with the same income may spend wildly different amounts
How Heather handles post-sale disappointment (spoiler: it’s genius)
The key to offering your services without attachment or judgment

The biggest sales mistake we can make? Judging clients before they even walk through the door. When we drop the assumptions and focus on service over outcomes, the entire sales process becomes lighter—and more profitable.

So give this episode a listen, challenge your assumptions, and let your clients decide for themselves.

Resources in this episode:

Is your pricing setting you up for success? Find out how much you need to make per session to reach your revenue goals with this free calculator! Get it here: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/target

Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com

Stop competing on price, sell without feeling pushy, and reach consistent $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula – www.freedomfocusformula.com

Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate – www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate

Discover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial

CONNECT + LEARN MORE:

Explore all things photography education at nicolebegleyedu.com

Ready to build a profitable photography business? Visit freedomfocusformula.com

Master the craft of pet photography at hairofthedogacademy.com

Follow along on Instagram - @nicolebegleyofficial

$15 files? Don't panic. Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

287 - What do you do when someone in your market is offering free sessions and $15 files? You listen to this episode, that’s what.

Deep breath, my friend. In this episode, we’re revisiting a powerful conversation about how to thrive in a saturated market—even when someone is giving away sessions practically for free. If you’ve ever doubted whether clients will pay more, this is for you.

What to Listen For:

Why low-cost photographers aren’t a threat to your high-end business
The mindset shift that frees you from price competition
How to attract clients who want to invest in custom artwork
What your $2,000+ clients truly value (hint: it’s not a bargain)
The real reason people pay more—and it’s not just “better photos”
How to stop worrying about what others charge
The power of differentiation in a saturated market
How to build a service that low-cost photographers can’t compete with
Why cheap photography often repels your ideal clients (and that’s a good thing)

This episode is your permission slip to stop stressing about the $15 digital file photographer in your area. Instead, focus on building a boutique business that attracts clients who value quality, service, and the full experience. 💫

🎧 Hit play, tune in, and DM me your thoughts @nicolebegleyofficial on Instagram. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Resources in this episode:

Is your pricing setting you up for success? Find out how much you need to make per session to reach your revenue goals with this free calculator! Get it here: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/target

Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com

Stop competing on price, sell without feeling pushy, and reach consistent $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula – www.freedomfocusformula.com

Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate – www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate

Discover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial

CONNECT + LEARN MORE:

Explore all things photography education at nicolebegleyedu.com

Ready to build a profitable photography business? Visit freedomfocusformula.com

Master the craft of pet photography at hairofthedogacademy.com

Follow along on Instagram - @nicolebegleyofficial

The Truth About Part Time Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

286 - If you’ve ever said, “I’m just doing this on the side,” and used that to justify your low prices… this episode is your wake-up call. We’re pulling back the curtain on the actual math of part-time profitability, common mindset traps that keep you stuck, and how to finally price your sessions like the legit business owner you are.

What to Listen For:

Why pricing low as a part-time photographer sets you up for burnout
The big mindset lie that says “if it’s fun, I shouldn’t charge much”
Why your expenses don’t change just because you’re part-time
The one thing you MUST track to know if your pricing is profitable
How $2,000+ average sales actually make part-time photography easier
Why your limited availability is a pricing advantage
How to reframe your beliefs about money, value, and success
A simple piece of homework that can change your pricing mindset overnight

Whether you're in it for creative expression or building toward full-time, your part-time photography business deserves full-time profits. It's time to ditch the guilt and own your value. Start pricing like a pro—because your time, talent, and artistry are worth it.

👉 Be sure to grab the free Session Profit Planner and take your first step toward part-time profit that actually pays.

And if you haven’t already, hit subscribe and share this episode with a photographer friend who needs to hear it.

Resources in this episode

Is your pricing setting you up for success? Find out how much you need to make per session to reach your revenue goals with this free calculator! Get it here: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/target

Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com

Stop competing on price and reach consistent $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula → www.freedomfocusformula.com

Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate → www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate

Discover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial

CONNECT + LEARN MORE:

Explore all things photography education at nicolebegleyedu.com

Ready to build a profitable photography business? Visit freedomfocusformula.com

Master the craft of pet photography at hairofthedogacademy.com

Follow along on Instagram - @nicolebegleyofficial

Sales Without Sleaze Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

285 - If the word “sales” makes you feel a little… icky, you’re not alone. Many photographers dread the sales process, fearing they’ll come off as pushy or make their clients uncomfortable. But here’s the thing—sales should be about service, not pressure. Tune in to learn how to confidently guide your clients through a seamless, enjoyable sales experience that results in higher sales and happier clients.
What to Listen For:

✔️Why the “let me think about it” objection happens—and how to prevent it
✔️ The #1 rule that ensures your clients are never shocked by your pricing
✔️ How to make the sales session a fun and stress-free experience for your clients

✔️ What to do when your brain panics over a big sale (hello, imposter syndrome!)
✔️ The difference between in-person sales (IPS) and online galleries—and which one actually makes you money
✔️ Why decision fatigue is killing your sales—and what to do about it
✔️ The exact structure for a seamless, high-converting sales session
✔️ How to confidently present pricing without second-guessing yourself
✔️ The best way to handle price objections without discounting your work

Sales don’t have to feel sleazy. When you approach them from a place of service, you’ll not only make more money, but you’ll create an incredible experience for your clients. Ready to transform your sales process? Tune in now and start closing those profitable sales with confidence!
Recommendations for sales software:

Fundy: https://www.fundydesigner.com/

ProSelect: https://www.prostudiosoftware.com/

Swift Galleries: https://swiftgalleries.com/

More Resources:

Is your pricing setting you up for success? Find out how much you need to make per session to reach your revenue goals with this free calculator! Get it here: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/target

Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com

Stop competing on price and reach consistent $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula → www.freedomfocusformula.com

Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate → www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate

Discover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial

Are you enjoying the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast? Please leave a rating or a review!

CONNECT + LEARN MORE:

Explore all things photography education at nicolebegleyedu.com

Ready to build a profitable photography business? Visit freedomfocusformula.com

Master the craft of pet photography at hairofthedogacademy.com

Follow along on Instagram - @nicolebegleyofficial

Stop Inquiry Ghosting Mar 25, 2025

Show notes

284 - Ever send your pricing to a potential client only to hear... crickets? 😬 You’re not alone!

Many photographers assume price is the problem, but more often, it's the way value is communicated. In this episode, we’re diving into how to stop clients from ghosting you and start booking more sessions with a strong website presence and an inquiry response that converts.

What to Listen For:

✔️ Why pricing isn't the real reason clients ghost you
✔️ The #1 thing you must have on your website to attract higher-paying clients
✔️ How to visually showcase your products and experience (not just your images)
✔️ Where to find high-end product mockups to elevate your website
✔️ The single most important question to ask every inquiry
✔️ Why responding with just a price list is a huge mistake
✔️ The best way to handle common objections before they even arise
✔️ How to personalize your inquiry response to increase bookings
✔️ How to use Video Ask to streamline your inquiry process
✔️ Why first impressions matter—and how to make yours count

Your website and inquiry process are the first steps in making clients excited to book with you—not just compare prices. By showcasing your products, personalizing your responses, and addressing objections before they come up, you’ll start turning more inquiries into actual bookings.

🎧 Listen now and make sure your inquiry process isn’t costing you clients!

Is your pricing setting you up for success? Find out how much you need to make per session to reach your revenue goals with this free calculator! Get it here: www.hairofthedogacademy.com/target

Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com

Stop competing on price and reach consistent $2,000+ sales in the Freedom Focus Formula → www.freedomfocusformula.com

Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate → www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate

Discover the world of commercial pet photography in the Commercial Pet Photography Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial

CONNECT + LEARN MORE:

Explore all things photography education at nicolebegleyedu.com

Ready to build a profitable photography business? Visit freedomfocusformula.com

Master the craft of pet photography at hairofthedogacademy.com

Follow along on Instagram - @nicolebegleyofficial

A Candid Chat with Vanessa Joy Mar 18, 2025

Show notes

283 - Do you ever feel like your competition is everywhere, and you’re just another photographer fighting for attention? We’ve all been there.

In this episode, Vanessa Joy shares how she’s built a photography business that stands out, attracts high-paying clients, and actually brings her joy. We’re diving into marketing strategies that work (without spending all day on Instagram), how to recognize and avoid problem clients, and why niching down is everything.

What to Listen For:

Why so many photographers struggle with pricing and how to fix it
The difference between running a business and just being a photographer
How to handle red flag clients without feeling guilty
The biggest marketing mistake photographers make and how to fix it
Why Instagram is not the magic solution to getting more clients
The importance of relationships in your marketing strategy
The power of charitable marketing and how to make it work for you
How to break free from the cycle of overwork and undercharging
Why niching down is more important than ever in 2024
How to make strategic business decisions instead of just reacting

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your photography business—whether it’s marketing struggles, pricing fears, or dealing with difficult clients—this episode is a must-listen. Vanessa and I share our biggest lessons from years in the industry, so you can stop spinning your wheels and start growing the business of your dreams. Hit play, take notes, and let’s get to work!

Important Links Mentioned in This Episode:

Master pet photography at Hair of the Dog Academy → www.hairofthedogacademy.com
Break free from price competition & sell with confidence → www.freedomfocusformula.com
Book more clients with Elevate → www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate
Master commercial pet photography → www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial
Follow Vanessa Joy on Instagram → @VanessaJoy
Vanessa Joy's Website → https://vanessajoy.com/

CONNECT + LEARN MORE:

Explore all things photography education at nicolebegleyedu.com

Ready to build a profitable photography business? Visit freedomfocusformula.com

Master the craft of pet photography at hairofthedogacademy.com

Follow along on Instagram - @nicolebegleyofficial

The Art of Pricing Mar 11, 2025

Show notes

282 - If you think setting your prices is just a math problem, think again! While pricing formulas help ensure profitability, the real magic happens in how you structure and present your pricing.

Today, we’re unpacking the art of pricing—how to design your pricing to nudge clients toward your most profitable options without ever feeling sales-y.
What to Listen For:

The difference between the science of pricing and the art of pricing.
Why pricing psychology is key to increasing your sales averages.
How to structure pricing to move clients from "I should be responsible" to "I’m getting a great deal!”.
Why high-end artwork options help sell your mid-range options (and why some clients go all in!).
The psychology behind pricing digital files (and why they should always be priced higher than your session average).
How to use a bonus schedule to encourage higher spending on artwork.
Creative ways to include digital files in your pricing without capping your sales.
Why small tweaks to your pricing structure can double or triple your average sale.

Your pricing isn’t just a list of numbers—it’s a tool that guides your clients to the best decision (for them and for your business!). By mastering the art of pricing, you’ll create an irresistible buying experience that feels natural, not pushy.

✨ Need help figuring out your ideal sales average? Download the Session Profit Planner at www.freedomfocusformula.com/target and use code PODCAST to grab it for free!

�� Subscribe to the show for more pricing strategies, business insights, and client psychology tips to help you grow a profitable, sustainable photography business!

CONNECT + LEARN MORE:

Explore all things photography education at nicolebegleyedu.com

Ready to build a profitable photography business? Visit freedomfocusformula.com

Master the craft of pet photography at hairofthedogacademy.com

Follow along on Instagram - @nicolebegleyofficial

Cost of Goods Sold Demystified Mar 04, 2025

Show notes

281 - Pricing your photography services shouldn’t feel like a guessing game! But if you’ve ever wondered why your bank account doesn’t reflect your hard work, it might be time to look at your cost of goods sold (COGS). In this episode, we’re breaking down what COGS really means for your photography business and how to price your products profitably—without the overwhelm.

What to Listen For:

The real definition of cost of goods sold (COGS) and why it's not what you think.
Why photographers often underestimate their true costs.
How to calculate your COGS per session to ensure profitability.
The industry standard percentage for COGS and why you should stay below it.
The difference between general expenses and cost of goods sold.
How home-based and retail studio pricing models compare.
Why albums should be priced 10x their cost.
The biggest mistake photographers make when pricing prints.
How selling single prints and digital files can hurt your profit margins.
The one thing you should do right now to check your pricing health.

Understanding your cost of goods sold is the key to running a profitable photography business—whether you’re part-time, full-time, or growing to the next level. Now, it’s time to put this into action!

💡 Ready to make pricing easier? Get access to the Session Profit Planner at freedomfocusformula.com/target and use the coupon code PODCAST for free access!

DM me on Instagram (@nicolebegleyofficial) and let me know your COGS and session profit goals!

Important Links:

Session Profit Planner: freedomfocusformula.com/target (Use code PODCAST for free access!)
Master pet photography at Hair of the Dog Academy – www.hairofthedogacademy.com
Join Freedom Focus Formula and stop undercharging – www.freedomfocusformula.com
Crack the code to booking more clients inside Elevate – www.freedomfocusformula.com/elevate
Learn commercial pet photography – www.hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial

CONNECT + LEARN MORE:

Explore all things photography education at nicolebegleyedu.com

Ready to build a profitable photography business? Visit freedomfocusformula.com

Master the craft of pet photography at hairofthedogacademy.com

Follow along on Instagram - @nicolebegleyofficial

Four Stages of Growth Feb 25, 2025

Show notes

280 - Ever feel stuck in your photography business, wondering how some photographers are booking high-end clients while you’re grinding for low-paying gigs?

In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, Nicole Begley kicks off a 10-part pricing series by unveiling the four levels of photography business growth. Learn how to move from budget-friendly shoots to luxe, high-end sales—without feeling salesy or pushy.

What to Listen For:

The four levels of photography business growth: Swift, Stork, Eagle, and Peacock
Why earning $2,000+ per client is the fastest path to a six-figure income
How to avoid burnout from serving too many low-paying clients
The key differences between selling photography and selling an experience
Transitioning from digital-only packages to profitable product-based offerings
The hotel analogy that makes pricing levels crystal clear
Avoid staying too long at this level, which can stall your business growth
The mindset shift required to confidently raise your prices
What makes a $5,000 sale feel effortless for top-tier photographers

Where are you in your photography business journey? Are you still stuck offering low-cost digitals, or are you ready to soar into those $2,000+ average sales? No matter your level, this episode will help you map out your next steps. Want more guidance? Visit freedomfocusformula.com for resources that will help you grow your business with confidence and clarity. 🎯 Don’t forget to subscribe and catch the next episode of our 10-part pricing series!

IMPORTANT LINKS:

Master the craft of pet photography at the Hair of the Dog Academy: hairofthedogacademy.com
Reach consistent $2,000+ sales with Freedom Focus Formula: freedomfocusformula.com
Book more clients with Elevate: freedomfocusformula.com/elevate
Learn commercial pet photography: hairofthedogacademy.com/commercial

CONNECT + LEARN MORE:

Explore all things photography education at nicolebegleyedu.com

Ready to build a profitable photography business? Visit freedomfocusformula.com

Master the craft of pet photography at hairofthedogacademy.com

Follow along on Instagram - @nicolebegleyofficial

The Hidden Reason You're Stuck Feb 18, 2025

Show notes

279 - Have you ever caught yourself procrastinating, undercharging, or shying away from marketing your business? It’s not laziness—it’s Success Intolerance.

In this episode, we uncover why success can feel unsafe and how to rewire your brain to embrace the next level of your business.

What to Listen For:

What success intolerance is and why it keeps photographers stuck
Why your brain sees growth as a threat, even when you want it
The five most common ways photographers block their own success
The real reason you procrastinate on marketing and pricing updates
The powerful mindset shifts to rewire your beliefs around success
How tracking small wins helps retrain your brain for success
The number one coaching event that will help you break through your biggest blocks

Success isn’t just about strategy—it’s about how you see yourself. If you’re struggling with self-doubt, undercharging, or avoiding growth, it’s time to break through those hidden barriers. Inside Elevate, we help photographers normalize success, build confidence, and create profitable businesses without feeling overwhelmed. And if you want a taste of this work, join us for Coach Week!

📅 Coach Week is happening on February 25-27 at 2 PM EST. It's totally free, packed with mindset shifts and live coaching that will change the way you see your business. Don’t miss this chance to experience the power of coaching for yourself!

🔗 Sign up now at hairofthedogacademy.com/coachweek

CONNECT + LEARN MORE:

Explore all things photography education at nicolebegleyedu.com

Ready to build a profitable photography business? Visit freedomfocusformula.com

Master the craft of pet photography at hairofthedogacademy.com

Follow along on Instagram - @nicolebegleyofficial