EP 55: advice column: bad contracts, finding Your editing style, and more
Hi again! Today, I’m excited to share some insights from my podcast episode today. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, just starting out, or looking for advice on growing your business, this blog will catch you up on everything we covered. Let’s get into it!
Quick Life Update
First, a little personal update—things have been busy around here! Between doctor's appointments and getting ready for baby girl’s arrival, life’s been a bit of a whirlwind. Even though I’m running low on energy these days, I’m still committed to bringing you all the content I can. We’ve wrapped up our last wedding of the season, and now I’m focusing on my educational projects and mentorships as we prepare for this new chapter.
Behind the Scenes: Podcasting & Video
If you’ve been watching my podcasts on YouTube, you probably notice me keeping things real—vaccine band-aids and all! I’m batch-recording episodes ahead of time, just in case baby decides to arrive early. I love sharing these moments with you guys, and I’m so excited to bring on some amazing guests soon. You’re going to love the interviews and all the creative inspiration they’ll bring, so stay tuned!
Your Photography Questions, Answered
Let’s dive into the questions you’ve sent in! I always love hearing from you guys and helping out where I can, so here’s what’s been on your minds:
1. Overcoming Shooting Stresses
Getting overwhelmed at a new location? It happens to all of us! My top advice is to either scout the location ahead of time or create a mood board that you can reference during the shoot. It’s totally fine to pull out your phone for a little inspiration—it’s all part of the creative process!
2. Balancing Client and Friend Roles
Shooting for friends can be tricky, right? My number one tip here is to have clear communication and set expectations right away. Make sure you have a contract in place, even if it feels awkward—trust me, it’ll save you from potential misunderstandings and help keep things professional.
3. Editing Styles and Skin Tones**
Finding your editing style can be a challenge. I know it took me a while! My advice? Experiment with different presets but always make sure to adjust them to suit your aesthetic. A timeless editing style not only keeps things natural but also ensures realistic skin tones—this helps your work stay relevant for years to come.
4. Moving Your Wedding Business
Relocating your photography business? The key is networking! Start building connections in your new area as soon as possible. Join local photography groups, attend events, and don’t forget to update your social media and website to reflect your new location. This will help attract new clients and establish you in your new market faster.
Navigating Public Reactions and Client Feedback
A question I often get is how to handle client feedback once images are posted. Here’s my take: always prioritize your client’s satisfaction. If they ask for a change after you’ve posted, accommodate their request—it’s worth keeping that positive relationship, and small tweaks can go a long way in maintaining a great reputation.
And speaking of public recognition, many of you have asked whether being featured in publications is worth it. My answer? It can be a great confidence boost and bring some industry recognition, but it’s not the end-all-be-all. Focus on what aligns with your goals and don’t stress about landing every feature—success is defined by what works best for *you*.
Self-Reflection and Personal Growth
A big part of evolving as a photographer is continuous growth and self-reflection. I always recommend looking at your work and identifying any gaps between where you are and where you want to be. Experiment with new techniques, seek constructive feedback, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
And if you’re like me and still find editing to be one of the most time-consuming parts of your job, consider streamlining your workflow with tools that make things easier. AI tools can speed up the process, and outsourcing might be an option if it frees you up for more creativity and client interaction.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, we’re all in this together, navigating the ups and downs of the photography journey. Whether you’re figuring out your editing style, balancing client relationships, or moving your business to a new location, remember that every challenge is a chance to grow. I’m here to support you every step of the way!
Thank you so much for being part of this incredible community. If you found today’s episode helpful, I’d love it if you could share it with your friends or leave a review. Your support is what keeps *Summer School* thriving, and I can’t wait to continue this journey with you all.
Until next time, stay creative and inspired! Catch you in the next episode!
Do you need any more advice? Fill out the inquiry form below if you would like to schedule a mentorship with me. Mentorship’s open Nov. 1st!!
Connect with Me Online:
Instagram: @summergrace.photo
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