Shoot Your Shot Photography Podcast

Posing as their competitor to steal leads

In this episode of the Shoot Your Shot podcast, the hosts discuss various themes related to the photography industry, including the importance of follow-ups, the celebration of their one-year podcast anniversary, and the dynamics of community and competition among photographers. They delve into a troubling case of unethical practices where a photography business is accused of misleading advertising and stealing leads from others. The conversation highlights the impact of competition on growth and the ethical dilemmas faced by photographers in their business practices. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various challenges faced by photographers in the industry, including competition, the importance of follow-ups, and effective lead generation strategies. They emphasize the need for photographers to adapt to changing market conditions and to create a relatable online presence to attract clients. The conversation also touches on the legalities of business names and the impact of monopolistic practices in the photography market. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various aspects of photography, focusing on authenticity, marketing strategies, and the importance of building connections with clients. They discuss the significance of engagement sessions as a marketing tool, the value of specific model calls, and the transformative potential of the Ignite program for photographers. Additionally, they emphasize the necessity of creating engaging video content to connect with audiences and celebrate the one-year anniversary of their podcast.
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Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Follow-Ups in Photography01:20 Celebrating One Year of the Podcast02:15 Community and Competition in Photography05:43 Unethical Practices in the Photography Industry09:39 The Impact of Misleading Advertising12:21 The Role of Competition in Growth18:40 Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Business20:03 The Balance of Community and Competition24:44 Navigating Business Name Challenges27:02 The Impact of Competition in Photography30:42 Adapting to Industry Changes31:09 The Importance of Follow-Ups38:22 Effective Lead Generation Strategies44:14 Creating a Relatable Online Presence49:23 The Art of Authenticity in Photography51:52 Engagement Sessions: A Marketing Strategy55:56 Building Connections Through Free Shoots01:02:04 The Importance of Specificity in Model Calls01:03:14 The Ignite Program: A Game Changer for Photographers01:09:03 Creating Impactful Video Content01:11:58 Celebrating One Year of the Podcast

Photographer Questions From Imaging USA

From the floors of Imaging USA 2025 In Dallas Texas, Tim and Lindsay open the phone lines up to some of our listeners. They talk about the importance of maintaining strong client relationships in photography, particularly transitioning wedding clients to family photography. They discuss strategies for effective communication and engagement, including the significance of online reviews and how to leverage them positively. The conversation also explores the value of podcasting as a platform for photographers to express their brand and connect with their audience, while emphasizing the importance of embracing imperfection in the creative process. Finally, a light-hearted cultural debate about poutine versus chili-cheese-fries.
 
Want us to feature your question, photography story, or industry hot take on an episode? Send us a DM, voice note, or video on instagram @TheShootYourShotPodcast. Your privacy is important to us. If you want to remain anonymous just let us know :)
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Chapters
00:00 Valentine's Day Festivities and Podcast Introduction02:45 Imaging USA Conference Experience05:49 Navigating Client Inquiries and Payment Challenges08:59 Focal's Lead Generation and Client Guidance11:57 Building Relationships with Clients18:10 Turning One-Time Clients into Lifelong Customers26:25 Client Relationships and Retention29:00 Strategies for Family Photography31:28 Navigating Online Reviews and Client Engagement36:00 The Value of Podcasting for Photographers42:05 Embracing Imperfection in Creative Endeavors47:59 Cultural Conversations: Poutine vs. Chili Cheese Fries

Data-Driven Photography: Insights from Pic-Time’s 2024 Report

Tim and Lindsay do a dive into the data from Pic-time's Industry Data: How Photographers Shot in 2024. They discuss camera brand preferences, busy seasons for photographers, and optimal days for delivering galleries, providing valuable insights for both new and seasoned photographers. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of photography, including the best times for photoshoots, the shift towards vertical photography, and the expectations clients have regarding the number of images delivered. They also explore the evolution of photo galleries and how advancements in technology, such as AI, are enhancing client engagement with their photos. In this conversation, Tim and Lindsay discuss the impact of AI on image discovery, the importance of understanding client preferences in wedding photography, and the significance of group photos. They explore trends in wedding details, the necessity of building vendor relationships, and strategies for maximizing print sales. The discussion also covers the top-selling photography products and the best print finishes, concluding with thoughts on future trends in the industry.
Pic-time's blog post: https://blog.pic-time.com/blog/photography-industry-data-2024
Want us to feature your question, photography story, or industry hot take on an episode? Send us a DM, voice note, or video on instagram @TheShootYourShotPodcast. Your privacy is important to us. If you want to remain anonymous just let us know :)
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00:00 Introduction to Photography Journey02:02 The Importance of Data in Photography07:01 Camera Brand Preferences Among Photographers13:59 Understanding Busy Seasons for Photographers21:08 Optimal Days for Gallery Deliveries24:40 Taco Tuesdays and Delivery Days26:28 The Best Times for Photoshoots31:10 The Shift to Vertical Photography38:08 Understanding Gallery Sizes and Client Expectations45:30 The Evolution of Photo Galleries and Client Engagement46:51 The Power of AI in Image Discovery49:02 Understanding Client Preferences in Wedding Photography52:40 The Importance of Group Photos54:25 Exploring Wedding Details and Trends56:30 Building Vendor Relationships in Photography01:01:11 Maximizing Print Sales Opportunities01:04:03 Top Selling Products in Photography01:08:20 Choosing the Right Print Finishes01:11:42 Concluding Thoughts and Future Trends

Being Inclusive to Grow Your Business With Martina Lanotte

Martina Lanotte, a queer wedding photographer based in Copenhagen, shares her journey from studying linguistics to specializing in queer elopements. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling in wedding photography, the need for inclusivity and representation in the industry, and the role of language in making all couples feel welcome. Martina discusses the challenges of navigating beauty standards and the importance of building trust with diverse clients. She encourages photographers to reflect on their portfolios and language to ensure they are genuinely inclusive, especially in a world that is increasingly aware of the need for representation. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of embracing values in business, particularly in the photography industry. They emphasize the need for inclusivity and representation, especially for LGBTQ+ clients, and the responsibility photographers have in shaping societal narratives. The discussion also touches on practical strategies for building a diverse portfolio and the unique experiences that come with different types of weddings, such as City Hall ceremonies. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the political nature of photography and the need for photographers to actively support marginalized communities.
Martina's Website: https://www.marlanph.com/
Want us to feature your question, photography story, or industry hot take on an episode? Send us a DM, voice note, or video on instagram @TheShootYourShotPodcast. Your privacy is important to us. If you want to remain anonymous just let us know :)
 
Sign up with Imagen AI to streamline your photo editing and get 1500 edits free! Sign up below for this rad AF offer: https://bit.ly/timothypodcast
 
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Chapters
00:00 The Essence of Wedding Photography02:48 Martina's Journey to Photography05:59 Narrowing Down to Queer Elopements08:57 Building Trust with Diverse Clients11:58 The Importance of Representation15:05 Language and Inclusivity in Photography18:08 Challenging Beauty Standards21:09 Navigating Inclusivity in a Conservative Market31:04 Embracing Values in Business33:03 Attracting Diverse Clients37:21 Building an Inclusive Portfolio39:12 The Responsibility of Photographers43:48 Redefining Beauty Standards47:04 Unique Experiences in City Hall Weddings54:23 The Political Nature of Photography
 

Preventing Injuries in Wedding Photography

Talking about physical health and wellness for photographers, particularly focusing on injuries sustained from the demands of the job. They explore the importance of maintaining physical fitness, the significance of core strength, and the mind-body connection in photography. The conversation also touches on fun and engaging physical activities that can help photographers stay active and healthy, as well as practical tips for preventing injuries related to camera gear and posture. In this episode, They discuss the importance of choosing the right gear for photographers, emphasizing the balance between aesthetics and functionality. He shares personal anecdotes about his experiences with different camera bags and the impact of gear weight on physical health. The conversation transitions into the significance of self-care, nutrition, and mental resilience, highlighting how these factors contribute to a photographer's performance and well-being during demanding wedding days.
Lindsay's Small Rig Cobb Light: http://surl.li/vpbwal
Back Mechanic (book recommendation): http://surl.li/eembpr
Want us to feature your question, photography story, or industry hot take on an episode? Send us a DM, voice note, or video on instagram @TheShootYourShotPodcast. Your privacy is important to us. If you want to remain anonymous just let us know :)
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Become an IG reel-creating machine with Social Templates!  with Promo code: LINDSAY. socialtemplates.co
 
00:00 Introduction and Vision Board Inspiration 04:26 Injuries in Photography: A Common Concern 08:33 Physical Health and Maintenance for Photographers 14:54 The Importance of Core Strength 20:24 Mind-Body Connection in Photography 25:50 Fun and Engaging Physical Activities 34:30 Camera Bag and Posture Considerations 34:58 The Burden of Gear: Choosing the Right Bag 39:56 Minimizing Gear for Better Performance 44:38 Innovations in Lighting: Enhancing Photography 51:43 Health and Wellness: The Importance of Self-Care 56:42 Mental Resilience: Embracing Challenges for Growth 01:01:30 Nutrition and Energy: Fueling the Photographer's Day

How To Book A Destination Wedding

Timothy  and Lindsay Coulter dive into the world of destination weddings. They discuss their personal experiences, how to book destination weddings, the importance of having a solid portfolio, and the legal considerations photographers must keep in mind when working abroad. The conversation is filled with insights on marketing oneself as a destination wedding photographer and the unique challenges and rewards that come with this niche in the wedding industry. In this conversation, Timothy discusses the intricacies of destination weddings, focusing on the legalities, logistics, gear challenges, and the impact of weather. He emphasizes the importance of understanding local laws, the necessity of proper planning, and the potential pitfalls photographers may face while shooting in foreign locations. The discussion also highlights personal experiences and anecdotes that illustrate the unpredictable nature of destination weddings, ultimately providing valuable insights for photographers considering this niche.
Want us to feature your question, photography story, or industry hot take on an episode? Send us a DM, voice note, or video on instagram @TheShootYourShotPodcast. Your privacy is important to us. If you want to remain anonymous just let us know :)
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Destination Weddings02:26 First Experiences with Destination Weddings12:49 How to Book Destination Weddings19:26 Choosing the Right Photographer for Destination Weddings26:00 Legal Considerations for Destination Wedding Photographers26:55 Navigating Legalities of Destination Weddings33:34 Understanding Destination Wedding Logistics35:23 Gear Challenges in Destination Weddings40:03 Weather Woes and Their Impact46:01 The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Destination Weddings
 
 

Why I Switched to Nikon

Lindsay's switch from Canon to Nikon. They explore the reasons behind the switch, the challenges faced with different camera systems, and the importance of gear in producing quality work. The conversation delves into personal experiences, technical aspects of various camera systems, and the emotional connection photographers have with their equipment. In this conversation, they discuss the transition from Canon to Nikon, sharing insights on navigating the challenges of switching camera systems, rediscovering creativity in photography, and managing client expectations. The importance of timing when making such transitions, practical advice on selling old gear, and reflections on how changes in editing styles can impact the final product. Concluding with a "What's in her bag" reveal of Lindsay's dope new kit!
Want us to feature your question, photography story, or industry hot take on an episode? Send us a DM, voice note, or video on instagram @TheShootYourShotPodcast. Your privacy is important to us. If you want to remain anonymous just let us know :)
Sign up with Imagen AI to streamline your photo editing and get 1500 edits free! Sign up below for this rad AF offer: https://bit.ly/timothypodcast
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Please consider helping our friends in California experiencing the destruction from wildfires: https://www.redcross.org/donate/donation.html/
 
00:00 Introduction to Gear Changes02:45 The Switch to Nikon05:55 Experiences with Canon08:52 The Challenges of the R6 Mark II11:50 The Decision to Switch Systems15:08 Nikon vs Canon: A Comparative Analysis18:00 The Journey of a Photographer21:09 The Importance of Gear in Photography28:18 Navigating the Gear Transition30:32 Rediscovering Creativity in Photography33:11 The Importance of Timing in System Switching34:10 Selling Your Gear: Best Practices38:20 Client Expectations During System Changes42:24 Editing Styles and Their Impact44:42 Unpacking the New Gear55:08 Reflections on Community and Support

Scammed by Their Photographer: The Jacqueline Poole Story

Jacqueline Poole-Montesano , a wedding photographer accused of scamming clients and vendors. Tim and Lindsay explore the implications of her actions on the wedding industry, the lack of regulation for wedding vendors. The conversation highlights the need for better practices and accountability in the photography business. Timothy shares the first-hand accounts from 4 brides who shared their stories with us. The discussion highlights the emotional and financial impact on clients, the importance of accountability in the wedding industry, and the need for mental health awareness among professionals. Lindsay and Tim discuss how clients can protect themselves when hiring vendors and emphasizes the significance of building a sustainable photography business with proper systems in place.
News sources:
NOW: https://nowtoronto.com/news/very-vindictive-ontario-couples-report-being-scammed-by-the-same-wedding-photographer-police-investigating/
CTV: https://barrie.ctvnews.ca/brides-and-vendors-claim-they-were-ripped-off-by-barrie-photographer-1.7043092
Want us to feature your question, photography story, or industry hot take on an episode? Send us a DM, voice note, or video on instagram @TheShootYourShotPodcast. Your privacy is important to us. If you want to remain anonymous just let us know :)
Sign up with Imagen AI to streamline your photo editing and get 1500 edits free! Sign up below for this rad AF offer: https://bit.ly/timothypodcast
Become an IG reel-creating machine with Social Templates! with Promo code: LINDSAY. socialtemplates.co
 
00:00 Introduction to the Wedding Vendor Crisis
03:12 The Jacqueline Poole Scandal Unfolds
06:02 Understanding the Impact on Clients and Vendors
08:45 The Business Model Behind the Scam
11:47 The Dangers of Associate Photography
15:09 Client Stories: A Deeper Look
18:03 The Need for Regulation in Wedding Photography
20:53 Conclusion and Next Steps for Clients
23:58 Final Thoughts and Reflections
35:45 The Impact of Unreliable Vendors
38:32 Navigating the Wedding Photography Minefield
42:35 Mental Health and Professional Responsibility
49:46 Finding Support and Resources
55:28 Red Flags for Clients
01:01:45 Building a Sustainable Photography Business