Off the Memory Card: A Photographer’s Podcast

Renovations, Sawdust & Business Lessons from the Messy Middle
What can a studio renovation teach you about running a photography business?
As it turns out...quite a lot.
In this episode of Off The Memory Card, I'm recording from the middle of a renovation project. There’s sawdust everywhere, half-finished spaces, and plenty of moments where I've wondered if this was all a good idea. But standing in the middle of the chaos has reminded me of several lessons that apply to every photographer, whether you own a studio, shoot outdoors, or work from a corner of your living room.
In this episode, I share five business lessons I've learned while renovating my photography studio:
Why your space is part of the product you're selling
How to build for the work you want, not just the work you're currently booking
The connection between organization and creativity
Why growth often requires investing before you feel completely ready
How to navigate the uncomfortable "messy middle" that comes with any major change
If you've ever felt stuck between where you are and where you want your business to be, this episode is for you.
In This Episode
✔ Creating a client experience that starts before the photos are taken
✔ Designing your business around your future goals
✔ The hidden cost of disorganization
✔ Making strategic investments in your growth
✔ Why the middle of any transformation feels chaotic
✔ Learning to trust the process when the payoff isn't visible yet
Key Takeaway
The messy middle isn't proof that you're failing. It's proof that you're in the process. Whether you're raising your prices, rebranding, learning a new skill, or building something bigger than what exists today, the discomfort is often part of the journey.
Keep going. The dust settles.
Connect With Me
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with another photographer who might need this reminder.
You can also find more photography education, business advice, and behind-the-scenes content at www.usethatcamera.com
Remember: Be kind, work hard, and stay humble.

After the whirlwind of spring sessions, senior photos, cap-and-gown shoots, and packed calendars; many photographers find themselves staring at an unexpectedly quiet summer.
And if you're anything like me, that sudden slowdown can feel a little unsettling.
In this episode, I'm sharing why a slower season isn't something to panic about. It's something to embrace. We'll talk about how the rhythm of my business has changed since stepping away from weddings, why June and July can feel surprisingly quiet, and how photographers can use this time intentionally instead of scrambling to stay busy.
In This Episode:
Why summer slowdowns can feel uncomfortable after a busy spring
How business seasons change as your photography business evolves
The dangers of panic-discounting and booking work you don't actually want
Why a slow season isn't a problem to solve; it's time to use wisely
Business Tasks for Your Slow Season:
Clean up your website, booking system, pricing, and workflows
Create content and grow your audience
Ask recent clients for testimonials and reviews
Scout new locations for fall minis and holiday sessions
Prepare your marketing and booking systems before the fall rush
Personal Tasks for Your Slow Season:
Pick up your camera and shoot for yourself again
Spend intentional time with your family and friends
Read, relax, and recharge
Remember why you fell in love with photography in the first place
A Little Teaser...
I'm also sharing a small hint about something exciting I've been building during this slower season—a new space designed to help photographers learn, grow, and support one another. More details are coming soon!
Key Takeaway
The quiet season is not something to fear.
It's an opportunity to get ahead, reconnect with your creativity, invest in your business, and give yourself permission to rest. The work you do now,and the rest you allow yourself to enjoy, can set the stage for a smoother, more successful fall season.
Enjoying the Podcast?
If you're enjoying Off the Memory Card, I'd be incredibly grateful if you'd leave a review. Your reviews help more photographers discover the show and allow us to keep having these conversations together.
Be kind, work hard and stay humble.

If I had to rebuild my photography studio from scratch, what would I buy first?
That’s exactly what we’re talking about in this episode.
As we continue renovating our studio, I’ve realized very quickly which items are truly essential…and which ones just take up space. During the chaos of construction, painting, moving things around, and trying not to lose my mind, there are a handful of things I’ve made sure stayed easily accessible because we use them constantly.
In this episode, I’m breaking down the core studio essentials I believe every photographer should start with, whether you’re building a home studio, renting/buying a space, or just trying to simplify your setup.
We cover:
Why white seamless paper is still one of the best backdrop options
What you need to support that paper
Different lighting options for every budget and shooting style
The importance of having simple posing furniture
Why artificial plants are secretly one of the best studio purchases
What I would NOT spend money on right away
This episode is a reminder that you do NOT need a massive studio or expensive setup to create beautiful images. Simplicity usually works better than people think.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the gear and studio inspiration online, this episode will help you focus on what actually matters.
Follow along with our studio renovation and behind-the-scenes content:https://www.facebook.com/burnsexposures

Running a business with your spouse can be one of the most rewarding (and challenging) parts of entrepreneurship. In this episode, Jeremy and I sit down for a very candid conversation about what it’s really like building a photography business together while also navigating marriage, parenting and everyday life.
We talk about how photoshoots often double as our version of date night, why editing seems to be the source of most of our disagreements, and how we’ve stopped chasing the idea of “perfect” work/life balance. Instead, we’ve learned to let work and family naturally integrate together. Sometimes our son tags along to sessions, and sometimes editing happens while Jeremy and him are playing nearby. It’s messy, imperfect, and honestly… it works for us.
We also share a behind-the-scenes look at what life currently looks like in this season of business: renovating our studio, preparing for summer photography camps and workshops, and juggling all the moving pieces that come with running both a business and a family.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to work with your spouse, or if you’re trying to figure out how to blend business and family life without losing your mind, this episode is for you.
Topics We Cover:• Working together as a married couple• Why photoshoots sometimes feel like date night• The reality of disagreements in business partnerships• Letting work and life integrate instead of forcing “balance”• Parenting while running a photography business• Studio renovations and current behind-the-scenes projects• Summer photography camps and workshops• Building a business that fits your real life

If you’ve ever caught yourself shopping for Christmas props in May, scouting fall locations during summer, or planning spring minis while editing Santa sessions…welcome to photography business ownership.
In this episode, we’re talking about the strange reality of always thinking several seasons ahead as a photographer. From ordering backdrops early to planning marketing campaigns months in advance, running a successful photography business often means living in a constant state of seasonal confusion.
We’re pulling back the curtain on all the behind-the-scenes planning clients never see and discussing why thinking ahead can reduce stress, improve profitability and help your business run more smoothly year-round.
Whether you’re just starting out or trying to become more intentional in your business, this episode will help you shift from constantly reacting to strategically planning ahead.
In This Episode:
Why photographers are almost always working ahead of the current season
The real timeline behind successful mini sessions
How planning early can save money and reduce stress
The invisible work clients rarely see
Why seasonal overlap feels so chaotic
How thinking ahead improves client experience and profitability
Simple ways to become more proactive in your business
Mentioned in This Episode:
Planning Christmas minis in spring
4th of July sessions
Fall mini location scouting
Seasonal marketing timelines
The difference between hobby mindset vs business-owner mindset
If this episode made you feel a little less alone in your seasonal confusion, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another photographer who’s currently listening to Christmas music in May.

In this episode, we’re talking all about photography pricing, and why there’s no universal “right way” to do it.
One photographer charges $200. Another charges $2,000. And somehow…both are profitable. So what gives?
The truth is, pricing is deeply personal. Your prices should reflect more than just your skill level. They should support your lifestyle, personality, business goals, workload and the type of experience you want to create for your clients.
In this episode, I break down:
The biggest factors that affect pricing
Why photographers charge such different amounts
How to choose a pricing model that actually fits YOU
The pros and cons of three common photography pricing systems:
Hourly/session rate
IPS (In-Person Sales)
Tiered packages
We also talk about:
Overhead costs and profitability
Location and market differences
Introvert vs extrovert-friendly business models
Luxury vs simplicity
High-volume vs low-volume businesses
Why comparing your prices to other photographers can be harmful
Whether you’re brand new to photography or considering changing your current pricing structure, this episode will help you think more strategically, and more personally, about the way you run your business.
Because at the end of the day, the best pricing strategy is the one that keeps you profitable and happy.

In this episode, I'm joined by my husband/business partner, Jeremy, to discuss the art of pivoting in photography and business. We share personal experiences, strategies for managing change and overcoming fears associated with it.
Key Topics
The importance of pivoting in business growth
Managing fear and uncertainty during change
Strategies for transitioning through a pivot
Chapters
00:00 The Journey of Change and Enoughness
07:57 Navigating the Photography Business Landscape
13:45 Embracing New Opportunities and Challenges
19:55 Learning from Mistakes and Growth
27:58 Advice for Photographers Facing Change

In this episode, photographer and community advocate Rafael Barker shares his journey into photography, the importance of community involvement, and practical advice for entrepreneurs balancing passion and business. Discover how authentic engagement and strategic pricing can elevate your creative career.
Key Topics
Rafael Barker’s journey from insurance to photography
The role of community involvement in creative careers
Balancing volunteer work and paid projects as a photographer
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Photography and Entrepreneurship
09:48 The Journey into Photography
20:20 Balancing Community Involvement and Professional Work
30:01  Navigating Volunteer Work and Compensation
39:52 The Importance of Passion in Photography
49:58 Learning from Experiences and Community Engagement
01:00:20 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
 
Connect with Rafael
- https://www.facebook.com/rafaelbarkerphotography
- rafael.barker1@gmail.com
 

In this episode, I’m sharing a few of the biggest lessons I’ve learned during my conversations with niche photographers. Even after 11+ years, I’m still learning, and honestly, that’s been one of the most important parts of growing both creatively and in my business.
I talk about why it’s so important to keep learning, how making space for the work you actually love can change everything, and why niching down isn’t limiting; it’s what helps you build trust and become known for something.
Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been doing this for years, I hope this episode gives you a little clarity and encouragement as you build a photography business that feels both strategic and fulfilling.
Key Topics:
The importance of ongoing learning in both the business and creative sides of photography
Treating creativity like kudzu: never stop growing and expanding
The significance of saying no to projects that don't light you up to avoid burnout
Making space in your schedule for your preferred niche and personal life
Challenging the "jack of all trades" mindset by focusing on areas where you can be an expert
How clarity in your niche simplifies marketing and attracts the right clients
The value of continuous self-reflection and adapting based on experiences and conversations with peers
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: Why continuous learning matters in photography01:18 - Learning is never just for beginners: always grow on creative and business fronts01:46 - Creativity should grow like kudzu: never stop expanding your imagination02:15 - Saying no to projects that no longer serve your business or passion02:43 - Narrowing focus: the importance of niching down for trust and credibility03:10 - Letting go of gigs that don’t light you up to avoid burnout03:39 - The significance of making space for what you love to do more of04:08 - Avoiding over-scheduling sessions that aren’t aligned with your goals04:37 - Embracing change: outgrowing certain types of photography to prevent mediocrity05:05 - Making space isn’t just about time; it's about mental and creative bandwidth05:33 - Building trust through specialization and expertise in your chosen areas06:00 - Summary: focus, clarity, and continuous growth drive success06:30 - Cathleen’s encouragement: stay curious, adapt, and keep learning07:00 - Building a community and inspiring others through sharing your journey07:28 - Final thoughts: celebrate growth, embrace niche specialization, and stay inspired07:54 - Call to action: leave a review and support the podcast
Resources & Links:
Use That Camera
https://www.facebook.com/burnsexposures
https://www.burnsexposures.com/
 

Discover how Alison Adkins transitioned from a general photographer to a highly respected newborn specialist. Gain insights into her approach to client trust, safety and balancing family life with her photography business.
Key Topics:
Allison’s personal background and journey into photography
Transition from a broad photography client base to specializing in newborns
The importance of niching down for business growth
Handling fear and uncertainties about reduced workload
Building client trust through safety and communication
The role of referrals and repeat clients in her business
Studio setup and benefits of working from home
Her approach to newborn safety, training, and education
Managing client expectations and their session preferences
Adapting to industry trends: from posed to lifestyle photography
Handling client photos and sharing on social media amidst privacy concerns
Chapters:
00:00 The Journey into Newborn Photography
05:10 Narrowing Down the Niche
09:51 Safety and Comfort in Newborn Sessions
15:03 Building Client Relationships
19:52 Adapting to Industry Changes
25:04 Advice for Aspiring Newborn Photographers
28:58 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts
 
Connect with Alison:
alisonadkinsphotography.com
alisonadkinsphoto@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068977676229