Off the Memory Card: A Photographer’s Podcast

In this episode, we're exploring the shift into B2B photography with Frank Miller. Frank went from shooting weddings and real estate to creating corporate contracts and scaling his business in a way he never imagined, and it continues to grow. In our chat, Frank unpacks what it takes to be a successful B2B photographer including tips for building client relationships, managing contracts and working through difficult situations.
Main Topics
Frank Miller’s journey from hobbyist to full-time photographer
Transition into B2B photography and building recurring contracts
Scaling a photography business with a focus on corporate clients
Strategies for networking and establishing professional credibility
Challenges of contract negotiations and red tape in commercial work
The importance of versatility in skills, including video
Developing a team and expanding into larger studio space
Timestamps
: 00:00 - Introduction to Frank Miller and the focus on B2B photography00:45 - Frank’s background and early passion for photography01:58 - Transition from hobbyist to professional through real estate photography02:29 - The leap from side gigs to full-time career03:36 - The importance of mindset and daily routines in business success04:57 - Diversifying photography services beyond real estate06:45 - How Frank chose to enter the B2B space intentionally08:16 - Types of clients: corporations, small businesses, etc.09:24 - How recurring contracts provide steady income10:45 - Upgrading to a larger studio and plans for growth12:01 - Managing work-life balance in a growing business13:40 - The value of video and multiple skills in today’s market15:04 - Networking strategies for B2B success16:27 - Approaching local businesses and building relationships17:09 - The importance of contracts and managing client expectations18:34 - Challenges in B2B work such as red tape and compliance21:06 - Qualities of a good B2B photographer: confidence, professionalism, adaptability22:31 - Making a professional impression on clients and the importance of appearance23:19 - Future plans: building a team and expanding service offerings25:16 - Advice for aspiring B2B photographers: shoot, learn, and network
Connect with Frank Miller
https://www.facebook.com/frankmillerphotography
frankmillerphotography.com
frank@frankmillerphotography.com
 

Join me as I chat with Kristina Gore (CKG Graphics) about her inspiring path from a high school and college athlete to a prominent sports photographer and mentor. Discover her insights on building a photography career, balancing multiple roles and creating impactful images that tell stories.
In this episode:
Kristina shares how her early experiences in coaching led to a passion for sports photography
The role of community support and mentorship in her development
Transitioning from hobbyist to professional photographer 
Her favorite types of sports photography, including action shots and portraits
Traveling internationally for shoots and capturing landscapes in Europe
Overcoming challenges as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated sports photography field
Balancing teaching, coaching and running a thriving photography business
Tips for photographers managing multiple roles and priorities
How she nurtures the next generation of young photographers
Her goals for future travel, growth, and expanding her photography niche
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: Kristina’s career background and journey into photography02:00 - How coaching influenced her path into sports photography04:00 - Building confidence and transitioning from hobby to business06:30 - The importance of community support and mentorship09:00 - Traveling to Europe as a photographer and capturing landscapes11:30 - Facing gender dynamics in sports photography and earning respect13:45 - Balancing coaching, teaching and photography roles16:00 - Favorite sports to shoot and the thrill of action shots18:30 - Learning lighting techniques with Westcott strobes21:00 - Mentoring young photographers and fostering community23:30 - Future goals: Travel, growth and new opportunities26:00 - Overcoming challenges: time management and saying no29:00 - The importance of authenticity and being yourself in photography31:30 - Reflecting on five-year goals and career longevity34:00 - Connecting with clients, community and the joy of success36:00 - How to reach Kristina and get involved in her work
Connect with Kristina Gore:
coachkgoregraphics@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/CoachKGoreGraphics
 

In this episode, I'm sharing valuable strategies to help photographers navigate the busy season with confidence. From structuring your schedule to creating effective workflows... learn how to work smarter, not harder.
Key Topics
The importance of scheduling your availability first to avoid burnout
Simplifying offers to reduce decision fatigue for both you and your clients
Automating booking, contracts, and communication with tools like UseSession
Developing go-to poses and prompts to streamline sessions, especially for cap and gown shoots
Efficient editing workflows: culling, basic edits, and customized adjustments
Creating client prep guides to reduce email-back-and-forth and improve experiences
Prioritizing self-care and setting realistic turnaround times to protect your energy
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: Preparing for busy or opportunity season in photography00:22 - Reframing busy season as opportunity season to encourage a positive mindset00:50 - The significance of scheduling your own calendar before clients'02:15 - Blocking personal commitments like kids' sports on your calendar03:14 - Setting session caps to prevent overwhelm and the importance of saying no04:44 - Simplifying offers to avoid decision fatigue05:14 - Clear session packages and managing client expectations06:13 - Automating workflows with booking software like UseSession06:40 - Creating a shot plan and using go-to poses for efficiency, especially in cap and gown shoots07:36 - Streamlining editing: culling, syncing, and custom edits08:04 - Using prep guides to save time and reduce client questions08:32 - Protecting your energy by setting realistic turnaround times and boundaries08:59 - Final thoughts: Rest is essential for productivity and sustainability
Resources & Links
https://usesession.com/?via=usethatcamera
Cap and Gown video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8q9QvuaRlsE
 

Overcoming Negativity in the Digital Space: Insights with Nakia Austin
In this episode, Nakia Austin, a licensed therapist and coach, shares her perspective on how to navigate and respond to toxic comments and online negativity while maintaining mental health and self-worth. Discover practical strategies to set boundaries, manage emotions, and foster personal growth in a world dominated by social media.
Key Topics
The root causes of toxic comments and online hurtfulness
How social media emboldens negative behavior ("keyboard warriors")
The importance of understanding that online comments reflect the commenter, not the subject
Practical response strategies: choose to ignore, block, or reply with grace (Pause, Process, Proceed)
The significance of self-awareness and knowing your emotional triggers
The role of healing ancestral wounds to prevent external negativity from affecting your well-being
The power of affirmations like "You are the only you" and staying authentic
The Four Agreements and the principle "It's not personal"
Handling the urge to react impulsively and the benefits of taking a moment before responding
Moving forward: accepting feelings, but not dwelling — the "Just Drive" analogy
The importance of doing internal work through therapy or coaching for self-confidence and resilience
Embracing your unique purpose and not shrinking yourself to please others
Contact Nakia
www.nakiaaustin.com
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063456702098
info@nakiaaustin.com

In this episode, I'm diving into the complexities of people pleasing; exploring its roots, the emotional toll it takes and practical strategies for overcoming it. I talk about the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care, while still being kind to others. This episode highlights the balance between accommodating others and maintaining your own peace of mind. I hope it encourages you to recognize your worth and make healthier choices in your personal and professional life.
 
Takeaways
Your kindness shouldn't require self abandonment.
People pleasing is rooted in the desire to be liked.
Sacrificing your own peace for others isn't kind.
Recognize harmless people-pleasing tactics.
Discounting your services can cost you money.
Resting is a valid reason to say no.
You can still love photography but hate your business if built on people pleasing.
Setting boundaries is essential for self-care.
Expect discomfort when starting to say no.
Awareness and better decisions can change your life.
00:00 Understanding People Pleasing
09:45 The Emotional Impact of People Pleasing
10:42 Overcoming People Pleasing Behaviors

In this episode, I'm chatting with insurance expert Danielle Ellis. We dive into when photographers need to get insurance, what types of coverage they need, the risks of not having it and ways to protect your photography business. Danielle takes the overwhelming topic of insurance and breaks it down into easy-to-understand steps you can take to make sure you're covered.
00:00 The Importance of Insurance for Photographers
10:50 Types of Insurance Photographers Need
20:55 Understanding Liability and Risks
30:35 Navigating Contracts and Permissions
36:36 Getting Started with Insurance
 
Contact Danielle:
Website
Instagram
https://www.facebook.com/ellisinsuranceagency1981
danielle@insurewithellis.com

In this episode of Off the Memory Card, we're digging into the complex relationship between photography and artificial intelligence (AI). I touch on the spectrum of opinions, from complete rejection to full automation... and emphasize the importance of finding a middle ground. I'm sharing my perspective on using AI as a tool to enhance creativity rather than replace it, particularly in the editing process. I highlight the evolution of editing tools and the potential for AI to save time, while also cautioning against over-reliance on technology. Ultimately, I'm encouraging photographers to adapt to changes in the industry while maintaining their unique artistic voice.
Takeaways
AI should enhance our skills, not replace them.
Many photographers are still processing AI's impact.
AI can be a valuable tool in the creative process.
Editing with AI can save significant time.
It's important to maintain your unique voice in photography.
Fear of AI's impact on job security is valid.
The photography industry will continue to evolve with technology.
Stay informed about AI developments in photography.
Don't panic, but don't blindly embrace AI either.
AI is an assistant, not a replacement for creativity.
Evoto Link for 500 credits:
https://www.evoto.ai/payment?_uuid=qxzpsrsn&sId=zdhshrnm&utm_campaign=Referral+Program-1+&utm_medium=Operation&utm_source=referral&referral_code=RPFYKGIK48
Code: RPFYKGIK48
Chapters
00:00 Navigating the AI Landscape in Photography
02:56 AI as a Tool: Enhancing Creativity
06:13 The Evolution of Editing with AI
09:10 The Future of Photography in an AI World

Moving to Charleston: One Photographer's Journey of Courage, Growth and Community
In this episode, I'm chatting with photographer Erin Hurst about her inspiring move from Greenbrier County to Charleston, WV (2 hours away). We explore the challenges and triumphs of transition, building new relationships and embracing change in pursuit of passion and success.
Key Topics
Erin’s background in nonprofit work and transition into photography
The moment Erin realized photography was her true calling
The sacrifices and opportunities that come with moving
Overcoming fears of market saturation and starting fresh
Strategies for maintaining client relationships across distances
Building community through networking, and other tips for newcomers
Personal growth: handling doubts, celebrating small wins and manifesting success
How social media, branding and personal life intersect with photography career
Advice for photographers contemplating a move or career shift
Erin’s favorite subjects: weddings, family sessions, and how her wedding experience informs her current work
Timestamps
00:00 - Welcome and episode overview02:50 - Erin’s journey from nonprofit to photography05:20 - The defining moment that sparked her photography career08:00 - Living in Greenbrier County: paradise and community support11:35 - Reasons for relocating to Charleston and initial fears15:10 - Navigating the saturation of the Charleston market19:00 - Building client relationships remotely and maintaining consistency22:45 - The importance of asking for help and letting go of ego26:20 - Skill diversification: headshots, branding, and niche shooting29:00 - Immersing in Charleston’s business scene and networking tips32:10 - Personal life updates and balancing creativity with everyday life35:00 - Reflecting on the move, growth, and future plans
Connect with Erin Hurst
http://erinhurstphotography.com/
https://www.facebook.com/erinhurstphotography
erinhurstphotography@gmail.com

In this episode of Off the Memory Card, I'm talking about the transition from winter to spring for photographers. It's important to plan ahead for spring sessions, review past performance and adapt to client needs. The conversation covers various session types, effective booking systems and strategies for promoting mini sessions to maximize bookings. I encourage photographers to take actionable steps, even if you start small, to ensure a successful spring season.
 
Takeaways
Winter can feel long, but it's time to plan for spring.
Review last spring's performance to improve this year.
Consider your session types: full vs. mini sessions.
Invest in booking software to streamline your process.
Set clear expectations with clients for a better experience.
Promote your sessions early, not just on social media.
Collect client emails for direct communication.
Start planning now to avoid last-minute rush.
Progress is more important than perfection in planning.
Take small steps to ensure a successful spring.
Mini Sessions Made Simple ($37 mini course about planning, booking, shooting and delivering mini sessions):
https://usethatcamera.com/mini-sessions-made-simple
UseSession (free trial for booking software):
https://usesession.com/?via=usethatcamera
Chapters
00:00 Winter Reflections and Spring Planning
03:04 Assessing Past Performance
05:54 Session Types and Ideas for Spring
09:09 Booking Systems and Client Communication
12:00 Promoting Your Mini Sessions

In this conversation, I'm chatting with photographer Arielle Atkins about her journey of balancing motherhood and her photography business. She discusses the challenges of starting her business, the guilt that comes with being a working mom, and the importance of setting boundaries with clients. Arielle also touches on the struggles of comparison and imposter syndrome in the photography industry, while highlighting the flexibility and rewards that come with her career. Our conversation emphasizes the significance of a support system and the ongoing journey of personal and professional growth.
 
Takeaways
Arielle started photography as a way to gain flexibility while raising her children.
Mom guilt is a common struggle for working mothers, especially in creative fields.
Balancing work and family requires constant adjustments and sacrifices.
Choosing your hard means recognizing the challenges of both work and motherhood.
The flexibility of being a photographer allows for more family time and vacations.
Comparison with other photographers can lead to imposter syndrome.
Each season in business comes with its own challenges and successes.
Setting boundaries with clients is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Having a support system of fellow photographers can provide encouragement and reassurance.
Personal growth and business development are ongoing processes that require patience.
You can contact Arielle at arielleatkinsphotography@gmail.com
Be sure to check out her work at www.arielleatkinsphotography.com and https://www.facebook.com/ArielleAtkinsPhotography