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

EPISODE #59: PROS AND CONS OF DOING DESTINATION WEDDINGS The allure of a destination wedding is not always enough. My personal experience with destination weddings. The pros of shooting destination weddings. The cons of photographing destination weddings. Top tips for destination weddings. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Announcement. [0:38] Introduction to episode. [6:02] Premise and overview of the topic. [8:10] My own personal destination wedding experience. [12:44] Pro number 1, building your reputation. [14:21] Pro number 2, building your portfolio. [16:06] Pro number 3, improving your skills. [19:06] Pro number 4, gaining cultural experiences. [21:14] Pro number 5, differentiating from the competition. [23:48] Con number 1, you will not make as much money. [27:23] Con number 2, big time commitment. [29:40] Con number 3, putting yourself at risk. [32:03] Con number 4. high responsibility. [34:36] Con number 5, it is not a vacation. [37:51] Top tips for destinatio

EPISODE #58: TOP 10 MYTHS OF WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY PART 2 As you journey into wedding photography, know that you are not alone in the challenges you face. Myth number 6: being a wedding photographer is a high pay job for simply one day of work. Myth number 7: Photoshop can "magically" fix our imperfections. Myth number 8: each photo op will be really quick, and only take a specific amount of time.  Myth number 9: when you buy an expensive camera, inquiries will roll in. Myth number 10: the idea that you can capture each photo on a "shot list". Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:26] Announcement.[0:38] Introduction to the episode. [4:12] Updates and catch-up. [7:19] Premise and overview of [0:38] Introduction to the episode.[4:12] Updates and catch-up. [7:19] Premise and overview of [4:12] Updates and catch-up.[7:19] Premise and overview of [7:19] Premise and overview of topic. [9:28] Myth #6: high pay for one day of work.[15:53] Myth #7: it can be magically fixed in Photoshop.

EPISODE #57: TOP 10 MYTHS OF WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY PART 1 Myth #1: it will be easy to become a successful wedding photographer, right off the bat. Myth #2: I can be a photojournalistic photographer, the invisible fly-on-the-wall. Myth #3: thinking that with reviews and a website, bookings will be flooding in. Myth #4: assuming that wedding photography is only about being a photographer.  Myth #5: thinking you can have a long-term career as a wedding photographer. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Announcement. [0:38] Introduction to episode. [4:10] Shout out to a WPP listener. [06:07] Overview and premise of the topic. [8:28] Myth #1. [15:06] Myth #2. [21:24] Myth #3, for all wedding photographers. [28:21] Myth #4, for photographers going full-time. [34:04] Myth #5, how you think about your business. [40:32] Summary and call to action. [41:06] Conclusion and wrap-up. [41:46] Coming up on future episodes.   Resources and links mentioned in this episode: http://www.weddin

EPISODE #56: YOUR FIRST IMPRESSION TO BRIDES AND GROOMS IS EVERYTHING. The premise; the importance of that first impression when booking clients. Two types of first impressions; your website and the meeting. Your actions prior to a face-to-face meeting lay the foundation for a positive first impression. The meeting; consider what you would expect as the client, and go above and beyond. The dos and don'ts of a virtual meeting.   The phone call; a confident voice and a concrete plan are sure to seal the deal. Reminding yourself of second-nature actions can be the key to a successful first impression. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:28] Announcement. [0:40] Introduction to episode 56 and updates. [8:59] The premise of today's topic. [16:43] Discussing different types of first impressions. [19:39] Understanding the importance of pre-meeting actions. [22:08] The first scenario: meeting face-to-face. [26:11] The second scenario: virtual meeting. [32:05] The third scenario: a ph

EPISODE #55: MY ALL-NEW SUCCESS IN WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY MEMBERSHIP SITE Stuck in a hamster wheel of excuses preventing your business growth? It is time to make a change. Core values guide your career and ultimately enables the fulfillment of your life. What is the quickest, easiest, and most efficient way to achieve your values? What is the Success in Wedding Photography Membership? Who is Henry Chen? A background of proof for a sound investment. An in-depth look at the exclusive content available with a Success in Wedding Photography Membership. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes:   Outline of this episode: [0:28] Announcement. [0:38] Introduction and updates. [5:22] Discussing the premise behind the membership website. [12:25] Understanding core value. [16:07] Why valuable content can take you beyond your goals. [23:37] The meaning of success in wedding photography. [25:27] Who is Henry Chen? [32:04] Discussing what is included with a membership. [46:12] The cost of the membership and final details. [5

EPISODE #54: STOP COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHER WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS There is a fine line between having role models and drowning your wedding photography business in comparison. Role models pave the way for other wedding photographers to become successful. The flip-side: comparison can become a vicious cycle that consumes you. Relatability, and finding value in connections with industry leaders can push comparison aside.  Too much of a good thing, is a bad thing - moderation is key for your wedding photography business. Do not forget to be proud of who you are and what your business stands for. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction and announcements. [7:57] Premise of the episode topic. [12:30] The differences between admiration and comparison. [19:54] Understanding relatability to squander comparison. [26:02] Moderation is key; find the balance for success. [33:32] Learning how to be proud of what your business stands for. [35:10] Wrap up of the topic. [36:31]

EPISODE #53: TURNING WEDDING CLIENT CRITIQUES INTO A POSITIVE FOR YOUR BUSINESS Multiple communication points require a high level of attention to detail. Consequences of not having a game plan can force you into the danger zone of getting unwanted, bad reviews. The primary responsibility of communication falls on the wedding photographer, not the couple. Communication starts even before prospective couples have made their initial inquiry. Setting expectations goes hand-in-hand with communication and will guide the outcome of each client experience. Scenario 1: The engagement session. Scenario 2: The wedding day product quality. Scenario 3: The wedding day service level. Effective communication and setting expectations needs to become second nature to you as a photographer. Post wedding day expectations should not only be set, but exceeded. The top two client critiques photographers receive after the wedding day. How to turn the negative into a positive and learn from each critical mistake. Conclusion: Coming

EPISODE #52: THE MOST IMPORTANT DOLLAR YOU’LL EVER MAKE AS A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER The story of my very first wedding, all the way back in the summer of 2007.  What I learned from my first wedding and how trust is critical to establishing your path as a wedding photographer. Word of mouth can make or break your reputation as a new wedding photographer. Your personality and cultural experience plays a role in a bride and groom’s decision to book you. You have to pay your dues and start somewhere in order to make it to a higher level of success. Beggars can't be choosers, so you cannot take any opportunity for granted. So what does earning your first dollar really mean to you? The most important dollar you make is not about the money, it is about the mindset shift. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:28] Introduction and updates. [6:08] Discussing a new podcast launch, Your Wedding Podcast. [11:19] Diving into the premise of the episode topic. [15:16] Storytelling, all the way b

EPISODE #51: WHY NOT HAVING A SENSE OF URGENCY IS KILLING YOUR BUSINESS Mentorship and accountability is key to creating a sense of urgency in your business to push you to that next level. When urgency is absent, reevaluate to find out exactly what you are giving up. The wake up call; what, why, and who are you doing this for? Defining success for you and your wedding photography business is critical in finding your path. A sense of urgency allows you to focus on the goal, be assertive, and take action to grow your business. A sense of urgency is found by looking inside yourself to find your core drive on why you want to be a wedding photographer.  Knowing your limits and understanding what to prioritize is critical in uncovering your sense of urgency. When being overwhelmed gets in the way of your sense of urgency, it is time to cut the noise and get focused. Circumstances may dictate your lack of urgency, but that does not make it okay.  Do not let your fear of failure eliminate your opportunity to grow a s

EPISODE #50: HAPPY ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY TO THIS PODCAST...THANK YOU ALL! Never take reviews for granted, whether for your podcast or even your wedding photography business. Taking a trip down memory lane, discovering the motivation behind the Wedding Photography Podcast launch. This podcast truly saved my wedding photography business. In order to improve, you have to take the risk and put your work out into the world. Making a difference for just one listener fueled the re-launch of the Wedding Photography Podcast. Your life's purpose should reflect who you are as a person, and be a true passion. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction to the one year anniversary episode. [3:19] Sharing a recent iTunes review from a listener. [8:21] Taking a trip down memory lane and how the podcast started. [20:26] Sharing an audio recording from Garry Lun, a photographer from Georgia. [25:07] Continuing the story of the launch of WPP. [26:55] Sharing a snippet from episode one

EPISODE #49: WHAT ARE BRIDES AND GROOMS REALLY PAYING FOR WHEN THEY HIRE YOU? So what are couples paying for when they make the decision to have you as their wedding photographer? Effectively communicating your brand image can convert inquiries to bookings.  So what else can you do as photographers to stand out in a crowded industry? Understanding the vision of your couples can ensure that their dream comes to life. Without consistency in all aspects of your business, fostering a trustworthy relationship can be difficult. Your presence and ability to create a comfortable atmosphere is a skill that must be perfected. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction and updates. [7:32] Overview and premise of the topic. [13:13] Discussing the importance of communicating your brand image. [18:47] Taking it a step further, discussing what else couples are paying for. [27:13] Understanding what it means to align with the couples' vision. [28:00] Discussing how consistency and

EPISODE #48: WHY I DECIDED TO COMPLETELY REBRAND MY BUSINESS A YEAR AGO If your business seems stuck, your next step may be a complete rebrand. The elevator speech of my rebranding process, and the events that led to the eventual tipping point. What if I wanted to introduce video to my company? How rebranding helped me keep up with technology. Changing the name of your business can have some technical drawbacks that need to be considered. Challenges of a rebrand can create more questions than answers, so it is key to know how to navigate the change. Reviews can save your business in critical times of change. Creating a name that encompasses your values can elevate your brand. To smooth out the rebrand, use your old business website as a “Band-Aid" for the transition. Rebrand launch: was it worth all the investment? Are you thinking of rebranding? Here are some critical questions to consider. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction to episode and recap of last wee

EPISODE #47: PATREON: HELP ME, HELP YOU BECOME A SUCCESSFUL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER Turning negative frustrations into a positive resource can be the key to success.  I hang my business “hat” on two principles: quality photography and exceptional customer service. A more personable approach is key in successfully connecting with your audience.  The reality of not having enough time has led to a fork in the road. Patreon: is this something for you? The reward levels of Patreon are suited to individual commitments and requirements. Patreon allows patrons to have access to exclusive content, down to the nitty-gritty details. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:28] Introduction to the episode topic. [1:36] Housekeeping items and updates. [2:48] Announcing the new Wedding Photography Podcast YouTube channel. [4:29] Sharing a review and a comment from listeners. [7:33] Premise and context of episode topic. [12:54] Discussing key teaching points of this podcast show. [18:02] Overview o

EPISODE #46: THERE'S NO SUCH THING AS OVERNIGHT SUCCESS IN WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY Questions from listeners.  Patients and persistence go a long way in creating a successful business. Success in wedding photography is found in a window of opportunity. My photography story, and how continuous improvement are the key to personal success. Building a wedding photography business requires both a time and monetary investment to grow. Do not be misguided by the illusion of false hope in the wedding photography industry. Your success is dependent on more than just time; other skills and factors can make a huge difference. There is a fine line between giving your business too much time and not enough. Investment in a mentor can expedite your journey to success. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:28] Introduction and welcome to episode 46. [2:50] Review from a listener, the reason this podcast continued. [4:21] Reading emails and questions from listeners. [9:28] Premise and overview of ep

EPISODE #45: IT’S NOT ENOUGH TO JUST TAKE BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS ANYMORE Building your portfolio takes persistence and a proactive approach to your career goals. Considering a well-rounded approach to your wedding photography business can take it to new a level. Understanding where your work falls on the spectrum can help you be realistic. Building your brand and pricing strategy can convert inquiries into paying clientele. Wearing multiple hats extends beyond prospective clients and carries through to the wedding day. What are you next steps? Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction to episode 45 and overview. [2:27] Sharing comments and messages from listeners. [12:25] Overview and premise of today's topic. [18:30] Discussing how to analyze your work on the spectrum. [23:23] Understanding branding and pricing. [26:27] Connecting valuable customer service with personality. [32:17] Recommendation for plan of action. [35:12] Conclusion and episode wrap up. [37:25] Coming

EPISODE #44: WHY DON’T I EVER HEAR BACK FROM PROSPECTIVE BRIDES AND GROOMS? The foundational elements of your existing brand can help launch your rebranding strategy. Marketing your willingness to take on destination weddings can be a great first step towards landing those clients. There are many reasons why prospective couples do not follow up, so don't take it personally. Making a memorable first impression through email can be critical in getting a follow up response. Prospective clients are always looking for the best value for their investment. A clear call to action can turn an inquiry into a client. Professional and considerate communication is a must, even when prospective clients are non-responsive. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction to the episode. [4:50] Reading through reviews from listeners. [9:32] Answering the first question from a listener about the rebranding process. [14:12] Answering question two, how to land more destination weddings. [19

EPISODE #43: WORKING ON THE PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE AT THE SAME TIME Being able to multi-task and wear multiple hats is critical in order to take your business to the next level. Understanding time frame can help put into perspective the tasks for growing your business. Examples of the past, present, and future mindset. Personal examples of my wedding photography business. Be conscientious and deliberate to change your mindset within. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:28] Introduction to episode 43, and episode overview. [6:39] Premise for today's episode, and the critical skill of multi-tasking. [9:52] Time frame; how to understand each task. [13:20] Examples of the past, present, and future. [23:20] Personal examples for my wedding photography business. [29:22] How to have the mindset change within you for success. [36:10] Wrap up of episode. [37:27] Conclusion. [39:45] Coming up on future episodes.   Resources and links mentioned in this episode: http://www.onlyadaya

EPISODE #42: WHY YOU HAVE TO HUSTLE JUST TO GET A CHANCE AT SUCCESS How to deal with high maintenance clients, and knowing when it is not a good fit. What to do if you do not hear back from couples after you have handed over their images. So where did the idea of "hustle" come from? What does it mean to me to hustle? Specific examples of what it means to hustle as a wedding photographer. Do no wait for the worst case scenario before hustling and giving it your all. When is it time to look in the mirror and ask yourself the tough question: "Am I really good enough?" Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction to episode 42, and topic overview. [5:52] Answering a question from a listener about when to refuse service. [13:32] Answering another question, what to do if you do not hear back from clients. [21:35] Discussing the topic at hand, the hustle mindset. [26:02] Explaining what it means to hustle in a wedding photography business. [29:28] Specific examples of what i

EPISODE #41: WHAT SHOWS UP WHEN A COUPLE GOOGLES MY BUSINESS NAME? Sharing a clients email, and understanding how we can all get "a piece of the pie". The premise; why is it so important to define your business search, especially in this tech age. The importance of first impressions.  Putting your best foot forward and prompting past clients for reviews can lead to your success. You cannot simply do everything, so the key is to prioritize and find your focus. Use the tools available to avoid sending prospective clients into a "dead end". Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:27] Introduction of episode 41, and updates. [1:57] House-keeping things, and episode overview. [6:38] Sharing of a listeners email. [10:19] Premise and why SEO results matter. [14:08] The importance of first impressions and reviews. [26:23] Understanding how to prioritize and focus on the most important things. [30:49] Discussing how to avoid creating a dead end for prospective clients. [36:44] Conclusion

EPISODE #40: WEDDING POST PRODUCTION TIPS AND TRICKS WITH LEON SANDOVAL OF ESSENTIALEDIT Background on Leon Sandoval from EssentialEdit. Find out more about Leon Sandoval and EssentialEdit: Advice for starting photographers and when to outsource.  The toughest thing about being a photographer is a lack of time to perfect your editing skills. Three key points of advice; do not get caught in the rabbit holes of time-wasters. Perfect your behind the camera skills to cut down on the post production work required. Hard deadlines can benefit photographers, and increase client satisfaction. Tips for photographers who are unwilling to "give up" the creative process by outsourcing. Final thoughts and encouragements from Leon. Conclusion: Coming up on future episodes: Outline of this episode: [0:28] Introduction of episode 40. [7:12] Welcoming Leon Sandoval, start of interview. [13:58] Advice to photographers starting out. [17:22] Understanding the time limitations and how that impacts your editing skills. [19:10] Disc