EP 135:  Huge shoutout to Magmod for being the inspiration behind this episode.  Their social media team released a post that inspired me to relay and share their message to help any creative who has felt the weight of self-sabotage and unnecessary mental narratives.  Go straight to their Instagram and find this post in full detail.  Read the comments and see that you aren't alone in this journey.  It's straight 🔥🔥🔥

Magmod IG

www.magnetmod.com

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EP 134: Nobody dismisses the importance of physical training and emphasizing proper nutrition, but maybe many of us are guilty of ignoring those priorities for a multitude of reasons.  In this episode, I bring on Cody Rininger; a personal trainer, nutritionist and fitness coach, to talk about his journey into building his business and how he separates himself from other trainers with the goals of changing and transforming lives.  

2bimperium
IG: @rininger50

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EP 133:  None of us really ever get to where we want by ourselves.  Today I want to thank my guests, my sponsors, my listeners for making this show to season 4!  

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EP 132:  We're back with another round of golf with Owen Main right before Christmas.  In this episode, we chat about AI, archiving, New Year's resolutions, and what is best served for Christmas dinner.  

Owen Main
@fansmanship

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EP 131: Paying yourself as a business owner can be somewhat complicated if you don't have a system.  In this episode, we bring back Christian Brim, to talk about Mike Michalowicz's renowned method of putting profit first, and why that might be the best option for creative business owners out there.

Connect with Core Group!!!
Website
For creatives
10 questions your accountant should be asking you
Instagram
Youtube
Facebook
Twitter

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 130:  We all seek resources to help us in our journey; be it people who affirm that what we are doing is the right thing, or people who pick us up when we're down, or who keep motivating us forward when we're resting on our laurels.  This episode is about recognizing that what you seek is already in your corner.  It may manifest itself in different ways, but it is not far away.  I dedicate this episode to all of those who have supported me over the years, particularly over these past couple of months.  I am so grateful for the clients, colleagues, friends, and family in my corner.  I hope this helps someone out there.  

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EP 129:  In today's episode, I am citing the film, A Million Miles Away, in which the protagonist's father gives his son 5 ingredients in a recipe for achieving success.    Now regardless of whether you buy into this recipe is of no concern, but maybe if you have yet to build your own recipe, this will help ignite that spark, because those who often achieve their goals, have very clear visions and outlines for how to approach their path.

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EP  128:  I don't know if there's any perfect website formula for photographers, nor am I any foremost expert to speak on them, but I have learned from far more intelligent marketers and business owners than myself, and what I've gathered is a laundry list of mistakes and oversights many of us photographers make, when crafting our site.  In this episode, I'll list off a handful of the most common pitfalls I see in photography websites.                                                                                                                                     

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EP 127: Traveling for work is one of the more liberating and exciting parts of being a creative, but after time, it can wear on you as well.  From the luggage to the time zone differences to the stress of business expenditures, I'll list a handful of tips to reduce your travel anxiety.

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EP 126:  Let's face it... Millennials and Gen-Z are delaying, if not giving up on, many common adulthood decisions that came far more naturally to the generations before them.  Marriage, home-buying, investing, saving for retirement, and having children are seen by some as nearly impossible due to the economics of today's day, and one of the big drivers in delaying those decisions....student loans. 

The crushing weight of 5-6 figure debt for 18-22-year-olds is often more than they can handle after the fact.  This is why preparing for college finances is so important; whether you're a high schooler planning your college route, a currently enrolled university student, a recent graduate, or a parent preparing for their kids' journey in the higher education process, please understand one basic principle; college is a business, and your student loans are paying the bills.  

Today, we're bringing photographer, Matt Brown, back to the show to have an honest conversation about rising student loans, not relying on debt relief programs, applying for grants and scholarships, and the people you need to rely on to make the most out of your college experience.   

MATT BROWN
Website:  www.mattbrownphoto.com
Instagram: @the5browncrew
Podcast:  Just a Good Conversation / @justagoodconversation

*Also be sure to check out my previous conversation with Matt in episode 43, "10 things every photographer should know"

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EP 125: We've got a fantastic guest today, family photographer, Christian Michelle Grant, out of Chattanooga, Tennessee.  We discuss many aspects of her art and business; from crafting her shooting and editing style to developing a marketing strategy and pricing structure that allow her to meet her goals.  Beyond that, we delve into her journey of making the plunge into full-time photography and how she manages the anxiety that comes with that move.  This is a lovely conversation about pursuing your dreams and manifesting a life that gives meaning.  Thank you so much for tuning in and enjoy!

FOLLOW AND CONNECT WITH CHRISTIAN BELOW 👇👇👇
Website:  https://www.christianmichellephotography.com/
Facebook: Christian Michelle Photography
Instagram: @christianmichellephotography
Pinterest: Christian Michelle Photography

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124: Deciding what to do with your profits?  While there are a multitude of areas to contribute to,  many of which I did not list in this episode, I decided to highlight 5 key areas that I believe can help stimulate intentionality and vision in your creative journey.

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EP 123:  Our friend, Christian Brim, is back with an episode we all need more insight on; leveraging tax deductions for our business.  In this episode, we discuss the home office deduction, equipment write-offs, what constitutes as a business meal, and much more.  

Connect with Core Group!!!
Website
For creatives
10 questions your accountant should be asking you
Instagram
Youtube
Facebook
Twitter

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 122: Culling photos can be a daunting process, particularly when the volume is high, and the stakes are higher.  Wedding photography tends to fit this bill, as clients are very demanding but you have thousands and thousands of frames to select from.  In walks AI culling!  In this episode, I'll give you my early review to Aftershoot AI, which promises to save you hours off your workload!

Affiliate Link to Aftershoot: https://aftershoot.com/get-started?referrer=65PADWYW

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EP 121:  Clients seek out portrait photography services for a variety of interests and needs; be it for corporate, family, or brand-building reasons.  There's also a market of people who seek out more personal and empowering forms of artistic expression that may not be seen quite as often by friends, family, and colleagues.  In this episode, we talk with Arizona boudoir photographer, Shayla Pelton, about her journey through this fascinating space of sexuality and expression.  We chat about the emotional power of her very first boudoir session, the ways she comforts people in front of the camera, the onboarding and offboarding of her clients and deliverables, and everything in between.  This is an enlightening, charming, and infectious discussion about self-love and courage, and I'm glad you get to listen to it!

FOLLOW AND CONNECT WITH SHAYLA PELTON 👇👇👇
Website:  https://boudoirbypelton.photography/
Instagram: @boudoirbypeltonphotography
Youtube: @shaylapeltonphotography
Facebook: VIP Bomb Babes and Bodacious Bodies
TikTok: @peltonphotography

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EP 120: The photojournalism industry, particularly when it comes to newspapers, isn't anywhere as strong as it used to be.  A most recent slashing of journalists at the LA Times is a harsh reminder that we always need to be updating our resumes just in preparation for situations like this.  But furthermore, how do we process the mental side of the recovery?  A portfolio or resume certainly won't help quell your stress or anxiety.  In this episode, I'll list 5 prompts to hopefully help you get through the panic. 

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/why-sports-illustrated-cut-all-of-its-photographers/

https://apnews.com/article/journalism-united-states-39ef84c1131267233768bbb4dcaa181b

https://www.npr.org/2023/06/07/1180808470/los-angeles-times-layoffs

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EP 119: If you haven't used  Chat GPT yet, you've at least likely heard of the noise it's making across a variety of industries.  Well, in today's episode, I specifically talk about how this AI platform can help photographers and creatives improve the speed of their business in 3 distinct ways; customer service, risk and legal, and copyright for marketing and content creation.

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EP 118:  Perhaps starting your creative business in your early 20s seems ideal, but there is no one way to approach a creative life, let alone a singular progression.  In fact, there are many advantages to starting or pivoting your business after the age of 40 because of the skills you now possess.  In this episode, I talk about my entry into the 40 club and why I view it as an asset, not a liability.  

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 117:  Golf is an amazing opportunity to network and connect with people.  It's also a great place to learn valuable life lessons.  My guest is Owen Main, a Southern California photographer who has built a successful business in a very short time frame, and our recording studio today is on the golf course, where I ask Owen a question on each hole; some of which are professional and others that are personal.  We talk about the best lessons he's learned, how he balances art and commerce, and the traits that have helped him the most in his journey. 

Owen Main
@fansmanship

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EP 116:  What does work-life balance mean?  Is it achievable?  Is it even an achievement at all?  We all face times of imbalance in favor of our work life, so what measures need to take place to tip the scales back towards rest, relaxation, and play?  In this episode, I will discuss the pitfalls I find in chasing work-life balance, and replace them with a few key ideals instead.

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EP 115:  Did you know that accounting is an important part of your business?  Of course, you did!  The problem is many of us are not fully equipped to handle those duties while also trying to be the very best artist we can be.  This is where hiring an accountant can come into play, but that first step in approaching one can be intimidating or overwhelming for first-time business owners.  After all, what do we say?  What do we ask?  Is my business valid enough?  I only do this part-time!  In this episode, I sit down with Christian Brim, who is a licensed CPA, himself, and also the CEO of an accounting firm that works hand-in-hand with creative entrepreneurs and small business owners.   We talk about why it's so important to communicate fully with any accountant about your goals and what you want out of your business.

Connect with Core Group!!!
Website
For creatives
10 questions your accountant should be asking you
Instagram
Youtube
Facebook
Twitter

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 114: Maybe this is a hot take, but I think attaching any sort of file in your very first cold email pitch to a new lead, is counterproductive.  It could be a pitch deck or it could be photos you want to highlight, but attaching them without a relationship already in place may increase your chances of having your emails unopened, or even worse, unseen.  In this episode, I advise embedding photos into your email as a more proactive way to have your work shown while also avoiding that dreaded Spam folder.  

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EP 113:  Have you ever attended a big photography conference?  What are the benefits?  Will it be overwhelming?  In this episode, I'll recap my very first WPPI experience, and give you 10 tips to make the most out of a big show that may otherwise intimidate introverts and photographers looking to stand out.  

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EP 112:  Miquel Quiles is a Sony Artisan of Imagery portrait photographer and digital creator, and in this episode, he's looking at my book and helping me navigate my next moves in wedding photography.  If you've never had a portfolio review before, or are nervous about getting one yourself, hopefully, this behind-the-curtains peek of a real review will help ease your anxiety. 

www.miguelquiles.com
@miguelquilesjr
Youtube

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EP 111:  If you're getting into wedding photography, doing a styled shoot may be very beneficial for networking with vendors and developing your own portfolio.  As someone who hasn't shot a styled wedding shoot before, I went straight to a qualified source and asked long-time wedding photographer, Phylicia Willis, what the best actionable steps are to getting your first styled shoot off the ground. 

www.phyliciawillis.com
@phylicia.willis

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EP 110:  What is brand strategy?  How do you craft it?  And most importantly, how do we ensure our ideal clients are experiencing our brand in a consistent fashion that aligns with our vision?  I'm here at WPPI23 in Las Vegas, coming off a grueling 4 days of networking and learning from a diverse group of creative professionals.  Today I got a few short minutes with Kaleigh Wiese, who is an action-oriented problem solver, creator, coach, entrepreneur, and brand strategist educator.  We chat very quickly about what brand strategy is, and the most common hurdles creatives will face in their own brand strategy journey.

IG - @gokaleigh
Web - www.kaleighweise.com

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EP 109:  Inflation is a real pain in the ass, but ultimately speaking, it has a relatively small impact when compared to another inflation that many of us are guilty of exercising; lifestyle inflation.  While inflation may increase the price of milk and eggs by a few dollars, lifestyle inflation may cost us thousands.  In this episode, I will discuss why we invite lifestyle inflation into our lives so willingly, and how to attack it if it is keeping us from our goals.

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EP 108:  I recently came across a statement from another creative who said "If you are mentally weak, you should not freelance".   So in today's episode, I'll unpack my thoughts on this statement and respond with why I think the so-called "mentally weak" actually should freelance despite this common narrative.

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EP 107:  You know, the sneaky thing about getting caught up in busy work, is that it feels so productive because you are, in fact, tackling something important in your business.  This task needs to get done.  And the list never seems to end with busy work.  If it's not catching up on emails, it's checking up on invoices or creating social content or any number of things that may not actually move the needle in our business.  In this episode, I discuss how busy work disguises itself as a proactive habit, even though it likely shares more common traits with reactive practices.  

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EP 106:   What is life like as an editorial photographer for a major news publication?  Today I am sitting down with photographer, Dan MacMedan, to talk about his many years shooting for USA Today and his journey in freelance.  From golf tournaments to award shows to press junkets, Dan gives us a peak behind the entertainment curtain and what goes into a 5-minute celebrity portrait.  

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EP 105: If you ever want a fun question to ask other business owners, try asking them what their favorite tax write-off is.  In this episode, I got to ask that question to a number of successful creatives at the Noobie Photographer's conference in Chattanooga, Tennessee. 

Rachel Crowe - @okcrowe
Feuza Reis - @fusecreativeinc
Nathan Holritz - @nathanholritz
LaJoy Lewis - @lajoyphotographyllc
Britney Smith - @theglamlabphotography
Ashley Freehan - @thepurposegathering
Shaun Austin Gordon - @shaunaustin
Tomas Flint - @tomasflint

The Bokeh Podcast
bokehconference.com
bokehpodcast.com

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EP 104: Have you ever asked a business owner "what is the best lesson you've ever learned?"  It's a great question, and today I'm at the Noobie Photographer's conference asking entrepreneurs a slight variation of that question, by asking them what the hardest lessons were in their careers. 
 
Rachel Crowe - @okcrowe
Feuza Reis - @fusecreativeinc
Nathan Holritz - @nathanholritz
LaJoy Lewis - @lajoyphotographyllc
Britney Smith - @theglamlabphotography
Ashley Freehan - @thepurposegathering
Shaun Austin Gordon - @shaunaustin
Tomas Flint - @tomasflint

The Bokeh Podcast
bokehconference.com
bokehpodcast.com

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 103:  I am here at the Noobie Photographer's Conference in Chattanooga, Tennesee, picking the brains of professional photographers and business owners on what the best investment has been for them in their careers.  Oftentimes, I find amateur photographers cite a new piece of camera equipment as their best investment, which is not to say that is wrong or misguided, but it does highlight a perspective shift from many people starting out to those who have reached a certain level they set out to.  In this episode, I pulled 8 successful entrepreneurs aside to ask them what investment they are most grateful for. 

Rachel Crowe - @okcrowe
Feuza Reis - @fusecreativeinc
Nathan Holritz - @nathanholritz
LaJoy Lewis - @lajoyphotographyllc
Britney Smith - @theglamlabphotography
Ashley Freehan - @thepurposegathering
Shaun Austin Gordon - @shaunaustin
Tomas Flint - @tomasflint

The Bokeh Podcast
bokehconference.com
bokehpodcast.com

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 102:  We're out on location!  I am wrapping up here at the Noobie Photographer's conference here in Chattanooga Tennesee, talking to successful business owners and creatives about art, life, and business.  In the quiet moments, I decided to pull every speaker aside for a quick poll, asking them where in business they think startup creatives tend to waste the most time on.   What is amazing is each entrepreneur has his/her own take on what efforts rank highest as a diminishing return, and hopefully these responses prompt all of us to ask ourselves, "what tasks are we constantly spending time on, that yield very little return?"

Rachel Crowe - @okcrowe
Feuza Reis - @fusecreativeinc
Nathan Holritz - @nathanholritz
LaJoy Lewis - @lajoyphotographyllc
Britney Smith - @theglamlabphotography
Ashley Freehan - @thepurposegathering
Shaun Austin Gordon - @shaunaustin
Tomas Flint - @tomasflint

The Bokeh Podcast
bokehconference.com
bokehpodcast.com

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 101: Today's guest is Nicolas Bates; an outstanding portrait and editorial photographer based in Los Angeles.  In this episode, we discuss how he developed his own style and aesthetic through countless projects and iterations over the years, and why personal work can yield so much more ROI outside of just content filler for Instagram.  From relationships to empathy to confidence, there is a lot to gain from becoming a producer of your own vision.

nicolasbates.com
IG: @nicolas_bates

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EP 100:  Benchmark numbers can be simultaneously arbitrary while also holding significant personal meaning, and today is such a day!  We are celebrating episode 100 of this podcast and I have all of you to thank.  Beyond that, I'm going to leave you with my 2023 motto and hopefully inspire you to follow your own!

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EP 99:  What meals are considered business meals?  Do they apply to me and what do I have to do proactively to take advantage of the meal deduction?  In this episode, I'll note what IRS code 274 states about meal expenses.   

IRS.GOV: Meals and Entertainment Expenses Under Section 274

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EP 98:  What is the home office deduction?  Who qualifies for it?  Can employees take advantage of this, or is it only for freelancers and self-employed business owners?  How do I calculate it and how much can I save?  In this episode, I'll break down a few basics of the simple, yet powerful, home office deduction.    

How small business owners can deduct their home office from their taxes

Home office deduction

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EP 97:  Sometimes the days go by so fast, you don't even realize a new month has hit the calendar.  Well in this episode, I'm going to highlight the fact that it is December and we are just a few weeks away from a brand new year.  What are you doing to organize your past 12 months and plan for the next 12 months?   

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EP 96:  I believe the practice of gratitude, can truly transform one's approach to life.  It has the power to snuff out jealousy, resentment, frustration, and entitlement.  There are so many things I am personally grateful for, even if I am nowhere near where I want to be.  In this episode, I'll talk about what I am most grateful for in this creative entrepreneurial journey.  

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EP 95: For every truism in any industry, there is an equal myth as well.  At the very least, certain statements or narratives need to be qualified and given context.  In today's episode, I'll discuss 5 narratives about being self-employed that I think don't paint the whole picture.   

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EP 94: Black Friday sales are probably hitting your inbox right about.....yesterday!  And while there are some really good savings to be had on new gear, I want to also highlight some areas that maybe don't get as much love and attention but are equally as important to our business growth.  I'm talking about Education, Marketing, and Outsourcing as pivotal players that are often under-invested in by creatives. 

EDUCATION:
https://review.palmspringsphotofestival.com/
http://thebigphotoblog.com/
https://eddieadamsworkshop.org/
https://summitworkshops.com/
https://www.udemy.com/
https://www.creativelive.com/
https://www.fulltimefilmmaker.com/

MARKETING:
https://bayphoto.com/
https://www.modernpostcard.com/
https://www.magcloud.com/

CRMS AND STUDIO MANAGERS:
https://www.honeybook.com/
https://www.17hats.com/
https://www.dubsado.com/
https://shootq.com/
https://www.studioninja.co/

OUTSOURCING:
https://www.fiverr.com/?source=top_nav
https://www.upwork.com/
https://www.freelancer.com/

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EP 93:  While we creatives study and work on our craft with a great deal of passion, it does not make us impervious to the occasional cognitive bias.  As the saying goes, we don't know what we don't know.  And what we may not know, is what our clients, our leads, our marketing directors, or copy editors are truly looking for all the time.  This makes us susceptible to judging our own work from a subjective lens, which may or may not align with those we want to work with.  In this episode, I'll talk about why it's vital to have our work periodically assessed by objective and qualified parties that can help us find the right path.

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EP 92:  Quick update: The Federal student loan relief application is now live on the student aid website!  The application takes just a few minutes to fill out.  Applications will be accepted throughout the entirety of 2023, but the current administration suggests applying before November 15th of 2022 so that forms can process before the student loan pause ends at the start of January of 2023.  Your loan servicer will notify you when your relief has been processed.

https://studentaid.gov/debt-relief/application

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EP 91: The fear of losing clients can be very strong, particularly when starting out in one's career.  We often see these situations from a very scarce-minded lens, leading us to negotiate without a strong footing or backbone.  But the possibility of losing a client is not always a bad thing.  In this episode, I'll talk about some of the silver linings of walking away from a bad client relationship.

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EP 90: The cost of poor communication with colleagues, leads, and clients can be severe.  It can lead to missed opportunities, severed relationships, and tarnished reputations.  Likewise, the benefits of really good communication can allow creatives to gain opportunities that exceed their talent, enrich their relationships, and maintain consistency in 3rd party marketing.  In this episode, I'll reflect on my successful and failed relationships to pinpoint my 7 keys to good communication.  

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Happy International Podcast Day!  We are celebrating our 89th episode with a tribute to some amazing other podcasters out there who continue to inspire in the business and creative spaces.  There are so many fantastic hosts who are not listed in this episode but make no mistake, your work is appreciated.  Thank you all for your continued inspiration!

Podcast recommendations

1. The Quote of the Day with Sean Croxton
2. Profit First Nation with Danielle Mulvey and Mike Michalowicz
3. The Futur with Chris Do
4. Jill On Money with Jill Schlesinger
5. Real Biz Talk with Rachel Brenke
6. Book More Clients with Brooke Jefferson
7. Bokeh - The Photography Podcast with Nathan Holritz
8. Midconvo with Edward Lee and Paul Weaver
9. Just a Good Conversation with Matt Brown
10. Beyond the Image with James Patrick

Honorable Mentions:

1. Seth Godin's Startup School
2. The Real Model Talk with Kayla Jones
3. Borrowed Future by the Ramsey Network

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EP 88:  Consciously or unconsciously, we are all playing the game of debt in our day-to-day lives.  We tell ourselves many narratives to justify our investments, big or small.  "This is good debt", "Everyone uses it", and "I'll figure it out later" are common phrases thrown around regarding student loans and credit cards as we grow up.  Many of these narratives are forced upon us by the major marketing machine that churns these belief systems, while other narratives have simply been enforced year after year by parents and schools.  In this episode, I provide 3 friendly reminders about this game that we've all been indoctrinated to play; the game of debt.

https://finaid.org/calculators/loanpayments/

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EP 87:  Student loan relief is on the way.  Whether you love it or hate it; the fact remains that it will be taking place and knowing your situation can help you build a brighter future.  In this episode, I'll give you 14 key takeaways on the new plan.   

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/08/24/fact-sheet-president-biden-announces-student-loan-relief-for-borrowers-who-need-it-most/

https://studentaid.gov/debt-relief-announcement/

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/student-loans/student-loan-forgiveness-faqs/

https://www.ed.gov/subscriptions

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EP 86: Sometimes it feels like we have to choose between niching down and diversifying to maximize our results, but truly I don't see them as mutually exclusive.  With sweeping layoffs and hiring freezes around the country, I'll talk about why diversification is more important than ever, while not compromising your niche.  

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EP 85: We've all been told that doing the free job is destructive to our career and the industry we're in.  "Value yourself", "Know your worth", and "Set the bar high" are all narratives we've heard, and maybe even told ourselves, over the years.  I, myself, have bounced back and forth between the idea of saying no and yes to free work, which I believe, many others have as well.  In this episode, I'll talk about where I stand on this issue and what dabbling in free-work could ultimately mean for your next path.

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EP 84:  Every once in a while, there pops up a fork in the road, where one side leads toward full-time employment and the other side leads to full-time self-employment.  Whether we're in college about to embark on the professional journey or currently in a stable 9-5, part of us is always curious about that other side.  In this episode, I'll give you my insight into 7 key differences between a freelance lifestyle and an employee lifestyle.  

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EP 83: Instagram has long been the most preferred and efficient way for photographers to display their work to the masses.  However, the platform continues to evolve and favor video content over still photography, leaving many of us wondering, are we being alienated by our favorite marketing tool?  Does Instagram now hate photographers?   Let's discuss.

Related articles:
Petapixel
DIYphotography
FStoppers
Thephoblographer

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EP 82:  For years, I have felt that the best lightroom updates went unnoticed, because the ones that were noticeable, were either disruptive or unnecessary to my workflow.  Recently though, we received a couple of features that I think have been beneficial to good post-processing.  In this episode, I'll talk about my favorite Lightroom upgrades and how it can help you. 

What's New in Adobe Lightroom?

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EP 81: What do you send in when a new lead asks for your pricing?  Are you sending them an estimate or are you sending them a quote?   What are the differences, and does it really even matter?  In this episode, I'll break down my pricing process with a new lead.  

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EP 80: Building a recession-proof business is no easy task, but it might be near impossible to accomplish with a brittle mindset and spirit  The life of a freelancer can be filled with many pitfalls along the way, and the potential of a recession on the horizon can make even the strongest of will question their journey altogether.  In this episode, I'll talk about the pain points of always catastrophizing a worst-case scenario, and how to reduce panic amidst a financial crisis.  

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EP 79: As visual creatives, it's important to grasp the responsibilities and roles of your creative team for optimizing your projects as best you can.  As human beings, it's even more important to have empathy for the people you work with and try to understand where they are coming from and what motivates them.  In this episode, I sit down with male model, Jacob Basheer Anton to discuss his career and his motivations to create meaningful art. 

Jacob Basheer Anton
https://basheermethod.com/
https://www.instagram.com/jacobbasheer/?hl=en
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNcBvUROGIYrXsDkirIv7aQ/featured

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EP 78:  Budgeting has a dirty feel to it doesn't it?  It makes you feel like you did something wrong or that you're in a timeout corner at school.  The reality is budgeting do not have to come with shame or embarrassment.  This simple skill set has the power to be a force multiplier in your debt-killing and savings-growing arsenal. 

https://www.ramseysolutions.com/ramseyplus/everydollar

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EP 77:  DBA's, also known as Doing Business As, can be a brand-building decision for your business, but is it all that it's cracked up to be?  What is it and why do people get them?  

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EP 76: A bill has passed in the state of New York that impacts freelancers in a great way!  One of the struggles of being a freelancer is collecting timely payments from clients, and this Act aims to hold companies accountable for how they treat their growing freelance laborers.  In this episode, I break down my first reaction and what it could mean for future gig workers. 

https://petapixel.com/2022/06/09/new-ny-law-guarantees-freelancers-contracts-and-timely-pay/

https://millo.co/freelance-isnt-free-act

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EP 75: Congratulations college graduates, it is your time to shine!  The road ahead promises many great adventures and obstacles that will both challenge and inspire you as you begin your autonomous lifestyle.  One such adventure is the ability to manage your financial goals such as paying down student loan debts, investing for retirement, and living within your means.  In this episode, I talk about a few financial targets as you begin your post-college career.

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EP 74: One of the common traps I find freelancers fall into is they price themselves without taking into account the intellectual property they inherently possess.  In my opinion, this makes us laborers, not creatives, and it is up to us, not only to fight for these rights upfront but to include that value in our pricing.  

Cradoc FotoSoftware (www.cradocfotosoftware.com) For any purchases you make, use the code; MD-0620 at checkout for a 10% discount on any of their products.  That code allows me to earn an affiliate commission at no extra expense to you. 

TODD BIGELOW
www.toddbigelowphotography.com     
The Business of Photography Workshop
Twitter       
Youtube   
Freelancer's Guide to Success (Book) 

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EP 73:  I'm not sure if there is an easy way to reconcile the conundrum of prioritizing both creativity and income.  If you ask 100 creatives, you may get 100 different answers.  Either way, it is a struggle for most creatives as they want to maintain artistic integrity but also make money.  In this episode, I talk about my own struggles in finding harmony between the two highly important ideals.  

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EP 72:  The longer I've freelanced, the more common I've seen this occurrence among industry colleagues.   Their clients, my clients, your clients, have seemingly run into a snag, and payment for your services, low and behold, is going to be put on indefinite pause.  In this episode, I talk about these scenarios that so many freelancers find themselves facing.  

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EP 71:  After working exclusively with DSLRs for the past decade, I've finally accommodated mirrorless camera bodies in my workflow.  Even though I may be late to the game on this, I'm providing my first impressions on the features I like and don't like in this new system.  

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EP 70:  Facing 8.5% inflation rates is no easy pill to swallow.  Regardless of how we got here, we have our own choices to make to combat these stealth taxes as best as we can.  In this episode, I'll talk about a few proactive measures that can at least put us in a better mental head space as freelancers and entrepreneurs.  

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EP 69:  We constantly fill out forms that require a Tax ID, whether it's for business, for banking, or for taxes.  The question is whether or not there is a better and safer alternative to putting our social security number out there in the world so frequently.  In this episode, I'll talk about the benefits of setting up an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your business. 

https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online

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EP 68: We are continuing our investigation on quarterly estimated payments for 1099 creatives, and in this episode, we break down simple ways to calculate what you owe in taxes, and how to pay.

https://www.irs.gov/payments

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EP 67:  Freelancing and full-time employment vary in a number of different ways, and one of the most important differences to note is how you manage your taxes.  While employees have taxes withheld, freelancers do not.  In this episode, I talk about what quarterly estimates are, who they are for, and when to pay them. 

https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/estimated-taxes
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1040es.pdf

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EP 66: The debate between prime lenses and zoom lenses can be both sensible and fickle at the same time.  Each photographer has his/her own vision, and not every scenario calls for a universal standard.  But it does seem as though each niche has its tendencies, and in this episode, I break down some reasons why wedding photographers prefer the benefits of the prime lenses over zooms.  

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EP 65: We've all been told, that it takes money, to make money.  And while some facets of that may ring true, it might not be a universal truth, nor might it be a valid self-narrative for any entrepreneur to uphold.  In this episode, I'll explain why I think this casual phrase might do more harm than good.  

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EP 64: Copyright law is extensive and occasionally difficult to wrap one's head around.  There are progressively more and more scenarios that dilute the waters we swim in as creators in a digital sharing era.  But a basic grasp on the value of owning the copyright versus selling the copyright can help navigate creatives throughout their career.  In this episode, I talk about the very basics of copyright protection.

https://www.popphoto.com/news/snoop-dogg-photographer-copyright-controversy/

https://www.copyright.gov/help/faq/faq-duration.html

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EP 63:  Identifying potential points of failure can be just as critical to success as developing great work.  It's not a matter of if, but when a mistake is made or a piece of gear is broken, and it is up to us as creative professionals to ensure that we can get the job done unequivocally for our clients.  In this episode, I'll list 7 areas of contingency planning to practice in your business.

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EP 62:  The benefits to owning gear are numerous, but it is not without challenges either.  Not every small business owner has the funds to drop down a large lump sum of money to acquire the tools needed to do the jobs.  With technology advancements improving at a rapid pace, is leasing a potential option to avoid having our money tied up in obsolete equipment?  In this episode, I give my 2 cents on leasing vs buying for professional creatives.

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EP 61:  Conduct is just as important to your branding as your style, your creativity, and your hustle.  It is not about what you think your brand should be, but rather how the customer, client, or colleague experiences your brand based on your actions.  In this episode, I break down why integrity is so meaningful to your reputation and highlight the mistakes I've made that hurt my own.   

The Futur (podcast) with Chris Do - feat Marty Neumeier

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EP 60:  Working photographers are not always guaranteed safe haven from accidents, theft, or damage.   Some might even say, these possibilities simply come with the territory.  In this episode, I talk about how playing solid defense can keep your business and your mental health above water in moments of crisis.

***UPDATE - New information has come up on the photographer I specifically mention in this episode.  This episode was recorded before knowing the full details of her past statements. The GoFundMe page is no longer supported by this host and has been taken down by the organizer. 

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EP 59:  Oh the aches and pains of learning on the fly.  These hardships are both excruciating reminders of what could have been, as well as the perfect lessons to guide us on our path forward.  In this episode, I'll highlight a few blown assignments starting out and how it has provided me with core values thereafter.  

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EP 58:  With the label of "visual creator" or "visual storyteller" being so broad, it covers a number of sins like photo manipulation and influencing a scene.  But when you cross over to photojournalism, the emphasis on truth and trust becomes paramount.  In this episode, I react to a recent staging shoot by a photojournalist that has the industry very passionate about where this lies on the moral and ethical scale of journalism.

NPPA CODE OF ETHICS

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EP 57:  Whether we are aware of it or not, we often abide by conventional wisdom for lighting.  A softbox is used for portraits, a beauty dish for beauty, a reflector for contrast.  But is following these formulas really what lighting theory is about?  In this episode, I talk about my favorite rule of lighting, and why applying it to my shoots increases my efficiency and creativity.  

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EP 56:  Why is knowing your cost of doing business so crucial?  What insight does it actually give you?  In this episode, I'll discuss the role CODB plays in your budget and your pricing decisions.   

https://nppa.org/calculator

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EP 55:  There are new tax rules for 2022 gig workers collecting income through payment settlement entities (PSEs) and third-party network transactions such as Paypal, Venmo, and Zelle.  The threshold for income reporting has dropped substantially, which will have a ripple effect on freelancers, odd jobs and selling used items.  In this episode, I'll break down my first impressions on the 1099-K and its impact on gig-workers.

https://www.irs.gov/businesses/understanding-your-form-1099-k
https://news.bloombergtax.com/tax-insights-and-commentary/new-form-1099-reporting-coming-in-2022

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EP 54: The start of the year always brings in feverish energy to start ambitious goals, but more often than not, we fail to reach those lofty expectations.  What habits must we employ to ensure that we hit our marks for the year?  In this episode, I propose 3 questions to you to prime your goal-setting trajectory.

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EP 53:  All freelancers and small businesses have expenses to account for at the end of the year, and while there are numerous systems creatives use to organize their finances, one thing runs true; separating your personal and professional expenses is key to good management.  In this episode, I break down a few key differences between business credit cards and personal ones, and why it's so crucial for good organization.

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EP 52:  Many of us ask ourselves whether we should have gone to school for photography, and if you're in school right now, you might be asking what you should major in.  What courses should I be taking, what will prepare me for a path to professional photography?  In this episode, I respond to an audience question with 4 areas to consider studying while in college. 

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EP 51: The end of the year is a great time to thank your clients for the projects and jobs you've collaborated on.  How you show that appreciation can be done in many ways.  Today I'm going over 3 methods that I think help creatives stand out and build stronger client relationships.  

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EP 50:  When was the last time you raised your rates?  Regardless of whether you're an employee or a full-time freelancer, consistent rate inflation should be on your horizon.  In this episode, I discuss when it might be time to start charging more, and what to tell yourself during this negotiation.  

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EP 49: Moving out-of-state or even out-of-country can bring a lot of stress, and it can also be a bumpy transition for your freelancing business as you try to rebuild a client base.  In this episode, I respond to an audience question about rebooting a photography business outside the US.  

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EP 48:  There is a strong connection between gratitude and entitlement.  When you approach your life embodying one of these traits, it is hard to possess the other.  Today, I go into my experience as someone who has practiced both sides, and why choosing gratitude is not simply a cliche bumper sticker, but a way of life.  

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EP 47:   There are a number of reasons why so many young adults in their 20's and 30's are moving back home with Mom and Dad, but it really doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things.  What matters is you max out the opportunity laid in front of you.  If you have a rent-free life, you open up a lot of doors for your future.  The problem is many young creatives are living at home but not creating a plan that can help them kickstart their business and life.  In this episode, I list the 5 things I wish I did when I lived at home.

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EP 46:  Photography can be a difficult profession, and when you are freelancing on your own, it can be downright frustrating.  With clients not seeing eye to eye with your terms, and the costs of running your business often exceeding the standard pay rates, it's no wonder why many creatives end up leaving their field for a little more stability.  But are we quitting too soon?  What if you quit right before your big break?  In this episode, I respond to an audience question about the difficulties of being a photographer and whether it is all worth it.

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EP 45:  With shopping season upon us,  most Americans will see a typical spike in expenses during this time of year, and in my opinion, creative professionals are highly susceptible to peak sale season!  And while this commercialized time of year is neither inherently good or bad, with the wrong mindset, our expenses can end up as further deficits to our business.  So in this episode, I am going to give you the 5 areas of my business that I prefer to spend fearlessly on, and hopefully inspire you.  

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EP 44:  Have you ever wondered what drives qualify as tax write-offs?  Does it apply to just freelancers, or can employees benefit from this as well?  How do I track my mileage every time?  What are the differences between standard mileage and actual expense methods and which one applies to me?  In this episode I break down the importance of leveraging your tax deductions on business mileage and how to determine what qualifies.  

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EP 43:  If you ask any professional what the most important traits and habits are to succeeding in their industry, you may get a lot of different answers, and they're all going to be valid.  From my perspective, when you have the opportunity to sit down with a creative who has a lot more experience than you, try and absorb everything.  Today we make an in-person studio visit with photographer, Matt Brown, to discuss what he sees as the biggest issues plaguing young and green creatives entering the industry. 

*Part 2 of Michael Der's conversation is also featured on Matt's podcast, Just a Good Conversation, available on all major podcasting platforms.   Click here to listen!

MATT BROWN
Website:  www.mattbrownphoto.com
Instagram: @the5browncrew
Podcast:  Just a Good Conversation / @justagoodconversation

Artrepreneurs:
Instagram:  @artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question

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EP 42: What is the self-employment tax?  Do you know what it makes up the SE tax and how it the rate is calculated?  Is it even important to know?  In this episode, I'll discuss the basics of self-employment tax and why you should know it.

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EP 41:  What is the mystery behind that 3 digit number that seemingly determines the rest of your life?  We've heard about credit scores, we may even know that more is better.  But what makes up a credit score and how does it impact us?  In this episode, we break down the 5 factors the create a total credit score and why its important to maintain solid credit.  

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 EP 40:  Podcasting has grown substantially in the past decade, and if you are a creative entrepreneur, it has the power to separate your brand from others.  The question is, what is holding you back?  If you have something to share, my goal is to help you find the incentive you need to start your show.  

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EP 39:  Emergency funds are often viewed as foundational to good personal finance, but is it really all that it's cracked up to be?  In this episode, I discuss the role of a rainy day fund vs using the money to invest.  

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EP 38:  For many of us, we're waiting for the right moment until we've learned everything there is to know about a new venture before launching into it.  It's a classic perfectionist conundrum because the reality is you don't get the experience and know-how until you actually take action.  Whether you want to start your new creative business, launch a YouTube channel or start pitching to clients, the perfect time is now.  

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EP 37:  Understanding and practicing sound image licensing techniques can be very frustrating to many photographers.  With rising WFH contracts and limited education on controlling image rights, we often find ourselves asking "is it even worth trying?".  In today's episode, we talk with freelance photographer, educator, and author, Todd Bigelow about the essentials of building a strong licensing workflow; from copyrights to archiving to rights-managed terms. 

TODD BIGELOW
www.toddbigelowphotography.com     
The Business of Photography Workshop
Twitter       
Youtube   
Freelancer's Guide to Success (Book)


Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want answered on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

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EP 36:  It's not uncommon for clients to push back on your estimate and ask if there's any wiggle room in your rates.  They may even ask you to explain your rates.  And whether you are looking to get them closer to your number or meet them halfway, it's good to know how to adjust your rates that leave both sides happy.  In today's episode, I answer an audience question on dealing with client push-back and how to find that middle ground during a negotiation.  

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EP 35: One of the best questions I've been asked is "what makes a photographer a professional, besides making great pictures?"  Imagine having 1/4 the talent level you currently have.  How would you sustain your business?  Think about your answer, and you might just discover what your priorities are.  In this episode, I'll discuss why it's so important to show the same level of respect to your business as you do your art.  

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EP 34:  Being entrepreneurial in spirit comes with its fair share of anxiety, failure, and struggle, but it might just be easier to be the entrepreneur than to be the person standing beside the entrepreneur.  In this episode, I'll discuss the principles that have helped my marriage withstand the speedbumps of self-employment.

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EP 33:  Most businesses spend the majority of their time and energy on client acquisition, and while those efforts are not without their merits, forgetting about your current clients is a mistake we cannot make.  In this episode, I'll talk about prioritizing the client relationships you currently have.  

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EP 32: Traveling on assignment is one of the great privileges a photographer can experience, but it can also bring unwanted stress.  In this episode, I'll give you some advice on tips to reduce your travel anxiety for your next assignment.

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 31:  Is cold-emailing legal?  What do I need to know to send my customers and leads new promotions?  In this episode, we break down the rules and regulations of the CAN-SPAM Act of 2003, so we can reach out to our clients in a lawful way. 

*CAN-SPAM Act: A Compliance Guide for Business

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 30:  Thrilled to host Christina Peters on the podcast!  Christina is a renowned food photographer with over 25 years in the commercial photography industry, and in this episode, we talk about proactive marketing strategies to stand out with the clients we want to work with, while at the same time, building a strong mindset needed to turn our hobby into a career.   

CHRISTINA PETERS
Website: www.christinapeters.com
Instagram: @thefoodshooter
For Photographers: www.foodphotographyclub.com
Facebook:  The Food Photography Club
*Bonus Freebie! -> Christina's 4 figure day rate plan to get higher-paying clients

Artrepreneurs:
Instagram:  @artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 29: Living a minimalist lifestyle doesn't have to apply to just clearing the attic of old toys and unworn clothing.  It can also play a big role in your creative and business ventures.  In this episode, I'll discuss how a minimalist approach can help you manufacture more space, more time, and more energy. 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 28:  Networking typically favors the outgoing and gregarious personality, but what about the introverts?  How can the seasoned wallflower become a social butterfly?  In this episode, I'm going to provide 5 tips to help you build comfort and confidence in your face-to-face networking.   

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 27:  Instagram might be the most powerful awareness builder on the planet, but does it mean that if you host a dormant account that you can't market to your target audience?  In this episode, I'll talk about the importance of creating intentionality behind the platforms you do choose to engage with.  

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 26:  Every entrepreneurial move has startup costs, and it is very common to interact with debt to fund the launch of your new business.   While doing so is not inherently a bad decision, without awareness of your finances and the knowledge of how to attack debt, you could leave your business vulnerable.  In this episode, I will give you 5 points of consideration to help you navigate your tango with consumer debt.  

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 25:  Every website needs to have an about page or a bio description for your potential clients.  What information needs to be there, and what points of emphasis should be highlighted?  In this episode, I'll talk about 5 things to consider as you revise or build your website bio so that you can make your message more customer-centric.  

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 24:  At what point does a hobby become a business?  Is it when you get the first check?  Is it when you get your first client?  Your first repeat client?  What does the IRS say about this?  Does it even matter?  In this episode, I will leave you with 9 questions to ask yourself to determine whether your ventures can be categorized as a legitimate business or a fun hobby.   

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 23:  The majority of small businesses fail within the first 5 years of launching.  For creative professionals branching off on their own, the reality may be very similar.  There is a myth that if you understand the technical work of a business, then you understand the business that does the technical work.  This is not true.  For all business owners, we hold 3 different personality traits that need harmony and balance; the entrepreneur, the manager, and the technician.  Citing Michael E. Gerber's book, "The E-Myth Revisited", I'll talk about how we can apply this concept to our own creative businesses and create greater self-awareness.

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 22:  Collecting payments can be one of the most frustrating aspects of being self-employed.  It is easy to run into clients who frequently ignore deadlines and pay you after the due date.  But nobody likes being the "heavy", so what can we do to improve our chances of getting paid faster so that we have a healthy cash-flow for our business?  In this episode, we'll go over 7 simple practices that can expedite your checks so you can keep creating.

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 21: How do profitable businesses run out of money?  This is a concept that was foreign to me when I first started freelancing, but soon enough I discovered the value of understanding how a healthy cash flow acts as the lifeblood to a self-employed business.  In this episode, we dive into what cash flow is, how it relates to profit, and how to identify the cash-flow killers that could leave your business vulnerable.    

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 20:  Every photographer, amateur or professional, needs to have a repeatable system for organizing and managing their images.  From ingesting, to culling, to keywording; they all make up the foundation of a good backend workflow.  In this episode, we talk with the director of marketing at Camera Bits, Mick Orlosky, on the essentials of a good digital process.

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

CAMERA BITS
WEBSITE:           www.camerabits.com
INSTAGRAM:   @camerabits
TWITTER:          @camerabits
YOUTUBE:         camerabitsinc

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 19:  When you start your creative career, the big first hurdle is convincing people to trust you even though you have no experience.  It's a classic "chicken and the egg" scenario.  You need the work to get the experience, and you need the experience to get hired to do the work.  So what can we do to kickstart our career that requires no industry experience?   In this episode, I talk about 3 simple principles to start implementing now to accelerate your confidence as a professional. 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 18:  Not having a system for your leads is a sure-fire way to lose sight of who you need to contact and how to market to them.  Starting with a client list or a lead list is important for every freelancer to chart where they are now and where they want to go.  In this episode, I'll break down what information needs to be on your client list so you can hit more of your freelancing goals.

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 17:  Saving money is a goal for everyone, but few seem to have a system in place to do it.  When left up to our own motivation or self-discipline, we find ourselves highly unreliable.   The system in which we use is what will allow us to grow our savings for big life expenses and retirment.  In today's episode, I'll be talking about the what, why, and how of paying yourself first.  

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 16:  Depression might hit each person differently.  For some, it might be short-lived, whereas others might experience a wave that lasts years, robbing them of joy and creativity.  In this episode, I talk about my history with depression and some of the tools I use to combat it. 

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 15:  What makes commercial photography commercial?  What makes editorial photography editorial?  How do I tell which category my job or assignment falls under, and ultimately, why does it matter?  In this episode, we're diving in on some basics of what defines commercial and editorial use and how it will impact your pricing.   

Resources:
https://blinkbid.com/
https://www.cradocfotosoftware.com/

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 14:  Is craftsmanship in photography dying?  Where are the artists that seek to break formula instead of replicate it?  Photographer/Director, Alexis Cuarezma sits down with us to talk about the importance of finding your vision to create work that is original and sincere to the artist in all of us.  In this episode, Alexis breaks down his process and deconstructs 3 select photo series, including imagery from his upcoming photo book "Destined For Greatness", an insight into the creative photography of world-class principal ballet dancers.

ALEXIS CUAREZMA
Website:      www.alexiscuarezma.com
Twitter:         @alexiscuarezma
Instagram:  @alexiscuarezma
Youtube:      Alexis Cuarezma

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 13:  Underpricing is rampant in the freelance economy, and there are way too many reasons to list in one episode.  In fact, we could pretty much sum it up by saying everyone is to blame.  The economy, the clients, and the creatives all take partial blame for lowering industry-standard rates, but for now, we're going to focus on photographers and how they can take the power back!  In this episode, we identify a few red flags in your pricing strategy by breaking down an employee mindset and start building an entrepreneurial one.  

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 12:  Getting your work published can be one of the great mysteries for any photographer.  In this episode, we talk to James Patrick, whose work has been published on over 500 magazine covers in his career on how to build awareness and generate leads with clients we want to work with.

JAMES PATRICK
Website:      https://www.jamespatrick.com/
Instagram:  @jpatrickphoto
Podcast:       Beyond The Image with James Patrick

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 11:  Brad Smith has one of the most incredible careers in photography one could fathom, and he's accomplished it without putting a camera to his eye.  His life as a photo editor branches from the White House, to publications like The New York Times and Sports Illustrated, to his current position as the VP of Photography at  WWE.  In this episode, we peel back the curtain on what a photo editor does and what kind of skills and instincts he/she must develop. 

BRAD SMITH
Creative Consulting:  www.bradsmithcreative.com
Photo Editing Workshop:  The Art of Photo Editing at Summit Workshops
Instagram:  @bradpix

ARTREPRENEURS
Instagram:  @artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question!

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 10:  Working as an NFL photographer is a goal for so many, and documenting a Superbowl season might be "the dream of all dreams" for a sports fan.  In this episode, we talk with Kyle Zedaker on his rise from intern to team photographer of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, his thoughts on what it takes to stand out from the crowd, and the nuances of covering a Superbowl season. 

Kyle Zedaker:
@zedakerkyle
@buccaneers

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 9:  We've all been told that hard work + talent is the formula for success, but what gets overlooked are the choices we make in our business.  Make the wrong call and your business can plummet no matter how hard you've worked to get there and how much artistic skill you possess.  In this episode, I'll explain what choices might be leaving your business vulnerable and the necessary actions to protect yourself. 

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 8:  Attracting clients is no easy task as a freelancing creative, particularly when passive marketing has been shown to rarely produce major returns.  Instead, it is proactive marketing and focusing on content that is in-demand that will yield success.  In this episode, I have the privilege to sit down with commercial photographer, Tri Nguyen, about his creative process and the evolution of his career that has picked up more work in 2020 than ever before. 

Tri Nguyen
https://www.tringuyenphotography.com/
@tri_nguyen_photography

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 7:  Have you ever felt that you weren't good enough to belong in a perceived class; that maybe you're pulling a fast one on everyone with smoke and mirrors, or even worse, that you shouldn't even try to reach that level in the first place?  Imposter syndrome often seems like it comes with the territory of being a creative professional, and today I get to sit down with a photographer, Brandon Magnus (San Jose Sharks/SAP Center), to dive in on this issue.  What experiences has he dealt with as he's climbed to new levels of his career?  How has he dealt with his own self-doubt to combat these negative narratives?

Brandon Magnus:
https://www.brandonmagnusphotography.com/
@brandonmagnus_photo

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 6:  Photographing individuals who are not accustomed to being in front of the camera is not an easy task, and the relationship between photographer and subject shouldn't be neglected.  In this episode, I sit down and talk with family and senior photographer, Kelly Aoki, about building report with her clients and capturing authentic emotion every time. 

Kelly Aoki:
https://mizuephotography.com/
@mizuephotography

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 5:  One of the difficulties of dealing with new clients is the first estimate.  How can I compute all the necessary information and quickly turnaround a professional and accurate estimate that respects both sides?  In this episode, I'm breaking down my strategy and how I focus on a client-centric experience.  The key takeaways...

1. Be Detailed
2. Be Brief
3. Be Quick

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 4:  Losing one's job is never easy.  It takes a tremendous toll both financially and emotionally.  But what rarely gets talked about is simply dealing with the anxiety of job loss.  How do we handle the fear of losing that gig, that contract, that client?  With more and more freelancing coming into play each year, more and more people have to deal with this anxiety, with few people willing to talk about it.  In this episode, I'm going to discuss 5 practices that have helped my anxiety as a full-time creative.  

1. Build Your Emergency Fund
2. Reach out to current and prospective clients
3. Work on personal projects
4. Talk to someone outside your family
5. Be kind to yourself

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 3:  A call-sheet is a pivotal part of your photo shoot process.  It alerts your entire team of the details you set so that you don't have to spend time answering questions during the creative process.  In this episode, I'll break down the following 4 categories I put on a call sheet:

1. Logistical information
2. Creative information
3. Safety information
4. Intellectual Property information

By doing this, you can provide your creative team a clearer understanding of the project, setting a tone of greater professionalism and care.

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 2:  The move to self-employment comes with some amazing benefits but it isn't a decision to be made lightly.  There are no educational or financial requirements for one to meet before branching off on your own.  There isn't even a required amount of experience before pursuing one's own business.  So how are we supposed to know when we are ready?  Consider asking yourself the following 3 questions if you're complementing this move.

1. Am I ok with uncertainty?
2. Am I ok with shooting 10% of the time?
3. Am I being 'pushed' or am I being 'pulled' into self-employment?

In this episode, we'll dive into what these questions shed light on in your decision-making process so that you can live your best creative life. 

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

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EP 1:  ARTrepreneurs is a podcast that inspires photographers and visual artists to live their best creative lives.   My name is Michael Der and I am a full-time photographer with nearly 10 years of experience in the freelancing world, and I’m sitting down with an amazing community of visual artists to talk about their process, business models, and the lessons they've learned along the way.

Artrepreneurs:
@artrepreneurspod

Have a question that you want addressed on the show?  Get featured on the podcast by going to speakpipe.com/artrepreneurs and record your question! 

This episode is brought to you by Bay Photo Lab.  For all your professional photography printing services, go to bayphoto.com for 25% off your first time order!

Support the show