Shows
The Edit | Photography Business PodcastPhotographer Jayden Campbell on Starting Young, Moving Countries, and Creating With Heart and HumorIn our last episode of season 2 (season 3 launches this fall!), Amanda sits down with photographer Jayden Campbell to talk about her journey, from starting her photography business at just 14 years old in Canada to rebuilding her career after moving to the United States. Jayden shares how she built a full-time photo business as a teenager, the challenges of immigrating and starting over, and how she infuses heart, humor, and authenticity into everything she does.This episode is especially encouraging for anyone who feels like they don’t know “enough” to start. Jayden proves that you don’t need it all figu...2025-06-3050 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastHow to Find Your Ideal Photography Client | A Beginner's GuideStruggling to Book the Right Photography Clients? We've gotcha covered!If your inbox is full of price shoppers, awkward inquiries, or clients who just aren’t a fit—you’re not alone. The fix? Getting crystal clear on who your ideal client is and building your business around them.In this episode, we discuss how to:• Identify who lights you up creatively• Figure out what they need (and what’s holding them back)• Show up where they’re already hanging out• Attract them with messaging that connectsFREE Ideal Client BlueprintWe created a free workbook to help you take action! This includes step...2025-06-2317 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastAmbreia Turner: Start Your Photography Business with Confident Sales & Purposeful ServiceIf you’re a photographer in your first year or two of business, this episode is a must-listen. And learning from Ambreia will help your business in so many ways! (sign up for email list here! https://ambreia.myflodesk.com/webinar)Ambreia Turner is the kind of photographer and educator who makes you feel like you’re not in this alone. She’s been running her business full time for nearly a decade, specializing in maternity and motherhood photography that’s not only stunning, but deeply rooted in storytelling, connection, and legacy.From sales to service, we dig into what it...2025-06-0356 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastZooming Out: Tips on Pushing Pause in Your Photography BusinessYou don’t have to quit to rest.This week on The Edit, Erin shares her journey about deciding to step back from her photography business and how she’s keeping it going, just at a slower pace. If you’re in a season where business feels heavy or misaligned, this episode will feel like a deep breath. If you're starting out, you can use Erin's advice to launch your business with intention.Learn how to:Run a back-burner business with intentionSimplify systems & set income minimumsStay visible and serve your clients, even in a quieter seasonPlus, hear what’s next for...2025-05-2050 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastBlog Smarter, Not Harder: How We Use ChatGPT to Help with Blogging and SEOPhotographers—still avoiding blogging because it feels overwhelming or time-consuming? We’ve been there. In this episode of The Edit, we break down how to use ChatGPT to make blogging easier, faster, and actually sound like YOU. From brainstorming blog ideas to writing in your voice and boosting SEO with the right keywords, we’re sharing all our favorite ways to use AI without sounding robotic.Whether you're a wedding photographer, family photographer, or just trying to blog more consistently in 2025, this episode is packed with practical tips.We cover:Why blogging still matters for photographersHow to use ChatGPT for bl...2025-05-0612 minThe Edit | Photography Business Podcast4 Hidden Gem Photography Conferences You Can Still Attend In 2025- Great For New Photographers!Ready to grow your photography business for real in 2025? In this episode of The Edit, we break down four must-attend photography conferences that are perfect for photographers starting out, looking to grow, or wanting to build their portfolio and community. These aren't the massive conferences like WPPI or ImagingUSA—these are smaller, more personal, and full of hands-on learning that will level up your photography business! And honestly, conferences like these are our FAVORITES!We’re covering: Conferences that help you build your photography portfolio, how to choose the right photography conference for beginners, why in-p...2025-04-0920 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastEasy Ways to Market Your Photography Business Locally: Blogging, Social Media & Networking Tips***Do you have our FREE Branding Blue Print Workbook yet?! Go here to grab it!***Ready to start marketing your photography business but feeling overwhelmed? In this episode of @TheEditWeekly , Whitney Carlson and Amanda Waltman share exactly how to create a simple, manageable marketing plan to get your first photography clients.You'll learn practical strategies to help your photography business grow by focusing on three key areas: Blogging, In-Person Connections, & Social Media.00:00 – Intro: Create a Simple Photography Marketing Plan00:42 – Blogging: Why Blogging Isn't Dead for Photographers01:12 – How Blogging Boosts Your Local SEO02:13 – Simple Blogging Tips for Beginners04:42 – Building In-Person Connections...2025-03-2417 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastHow to Start a Photography Business with No Money: A Step-by-Step Guide for Branding, Headshots, and Food PhotographyStarting a photography business with no money can feel overwhelming, but we're here to help! In this episode of @TheEditWeekly , Whitney shares her top tips for launching a photography business from scratch, even with a full-time job and zero budget. Whether you're interested in branding, headshots, or food photography, you'll discover creative strategies to leverage what you already have, including using your smartphone, bartering for equipment, and finding free resources to master photography essentials like lighting, composition, and storytelling.Whitney also shares innovative ideas to generate income, building a portfolio by collaborating with other small businesses, and how to ef...2025-03-1017 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastHow To Start A Photography Business With No Money Part 1Don’t Let a Lack of Money Kill Your Photography Dreams!Think you need a fancy camera and a big budget to start a photography business? Think again! In this episode, we’re proving that you can launch your business with zero dollars—and we’re not talking about sketchy “exposure bucks” or hoping your rich aunt buys you a DSLR (but hey, if she offers, take her up on it!)In this episode, Amanda shares a creative strategy for building a portfolio, borrowing equipment, and getting your first paying clients—all without spending a dime. From leveraging friends and family to...2025-02-1916 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastLaunch Your Dream Photography Business: Mastering The Four V's of BrandingAre you ready to start your photography business and create a brand that stands out? In this episode of The Edit Weekly, Erin, Amanda, and Whitney dive into the 4 V's of Branding—Vision, Voice, Visuals, and Value. These essential elements will help you build a strong foundation for your photography business, attract your ideal clients, and create an exceptional client experience.
What we cover:
*Why branding matters when starting a photography business
*Vision: Understanding your "why" and how it shapes your business
*Voice: Communicating effectively with your dream clients
*Vi...2025-01-2033 min
The Edit | Photography Business Podcast1099s Made Simple For Photographers: Avoid IRS Trouble with These Tips!If the thought of 1099s makes you break out in a cold sweat, don’t worry—we’ve got your back! 🎉 In this episode of The Edit Weekly Erin & Whitney are breaking down 1099s for photographers in a way that’s simple, straightforward, and even a little fun. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or figuring out how to start a photography business, understanding your taxes is key to keeping Uncle Sam happy and your business thriving.
From issuing 1099s to second shooters to handling your own as a freelancer, we’re covering everything you need to stay compliant, avoid penalties...2025-01-0608 min
The Edit | Photography Business PodcastConfidently Share Your Photography Business In 4 Simple Steps: Writing Your Elevator PitchStruggle to explain your photography business in 30 seconds or less? We’ve got you covered! (oh, have you subscribed to @TheEditWeekly yet?!)
In this episode of The Edit Weekly, we (your hosts Erin Smagala, Amanda Waltman, and Whitney Carlson) break down the 4-step formula to craft an elevator pitch that will make you sound confident, professional, and memorable. Whether you’re a wedding photographer, a family photographer, or just starting out, this tool will help you connect with potential clients and grow your business.
What You’ll Learn:
✅ What an elevator pitch is and why it matters.
✅ Our easy 4-step formul...2024-12-1714 min
The Edit | Photography Business PodcastTax Write-Off Tips for Photographers (And the Surprising Things You Didn't Know You Could Write Off!)Taxes don’t have to be boring—especially when they could save you money! In this episode of The Edit Weekly, we’re diving into all things tax write-offs for photographers. From surprising deductions (yep, you might even be able to write off your driveway!) to the tools we rely on to keep organized, we’re sharing what we’ve learned to help you keep more money in your pocket. 💼📸
✨ What You’ll Learn with Us:
+Why tracking every expense—yes, even that coffee with a client—is a must ☕
+How we ha...2024-12-0433 min
The Edit | Photography Business PodcastBlack Friday Buying Tips For Starting Your Photography Business on a BudgetSave Big on Black Friday: The Must-Know Secrets for Photographers! 💸📸
(Spoiler: You can search a $30 bonus if you use our link to make a qualifying purchase on Rakuten! www.rakuten.com/r/THEEDI44 )
Hey, Photo BFFs! 🎉 Ready to save big and grow your photography business? In this episode of The Edit, we’re breaking down EXACTLY how to shop smart this Black Friday and Cyber Monday to upgrade your business without breaking the bank. Whether you're just starting out or you're already a seasoned pro, this is the ultimate roadmap to smart spending.
🧐 Why you NEED this episode:
Tired of overspendin...2024-11-1824 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastBuilding A Successful Career As A Sports Photographer With Jenny BuchananEver wondered what it’s like to photograph the Super Bowl, Winter Olympics, or capture the final Boeing 747? Join us in this episode of The Edit as we dive deep into the fascinating career of Jenny Buchanan, a Seattle Times staff photographer. Jenny opens up about her journey from freelance photographer to landing her dream job, shares essential advice for anyone starting a photography business, and reveals the highs and challenges of being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field.
This episode is a must-watch for aspiring photographers interested in building a professional career, understanding the realities of photojournalism, an...2024-11-0450 min
The Edit | Photography Business PodcastBuilding Your Photography Website: The Best Platforms & Tips For BeginnersHey, photo BFFs! Welcome back to @TheEditWeekly 🎙️ Make sure to Subscribe for our latest updates and sign up for our weekly newsletter with extra tips at www.theeditweekly.com
Today, we’re diving into one of the most crucial elements of your photography business—your website! Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your online presence, we've got you covered with tips on choosing the right platform and hiring the perfect designer.
Join us as we chat about the pros and cons of popular website builders like Showit & Squarespace. Learn how to create a beautiful photography website wit...2024-10-2132 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastBoost Your Photography Sales With One Easy Step: How To Start A Photography BusinessBe sure you subscribe to @TheEditWeekly to learn everything you need on how to start a photography business!
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Ready to easily boost your fall photography sales with one simple step? In this episode of The Edit, Whitney, Amanda, and Erin share expert strategies to increase your revenue, no matter what type of photography business you run. From senior portraits to family sessions, wedding photography, or even fine art and landscape photography, these tips will help you maximize profits and offer more to your clients with one simple tool: press-printed cards.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
* How to boost sales...2024-10-0743 min
The Edit | Photography Business PodcastHow To Start A Photography Business: Maximize Your Profits With The Best Wall Art ProductsIn this episode of The Edit, we're diving deep into how to maximize your profits with the best wall art products!
Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your photography business, knowing which products to sell can make all the difference. Join Whitney, Amanda, and Erin as they break down the most popular and profitable wall art options, including canvases, metal prints, standouts, and acrylic prints. Learn how to present and price your products in a way that boosts sales and impresses your clients!
🔑 Key Takeaways in This Episode:
* How to showcase canvases and why they can be...2024-09-2334 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastBuilding A Career In Food Photography With Charity BurggraafHow to Build a Thriving Photography Business with Charity Burggraaf!
Dreaming of turning your passion for photography into a profitable business? Look no further! In this must-watch episode of The Edit, Amanda Waltman and Erin Smagala sit down with Charity Burggraaf, a culinary photography powerhouse, to discuss the ins and outs of building a successful photography career from the ground up. 🌱📷
Charity went from being an art student to photographing for top chefs and major brands—and now, she’s sharing the secrets of her success! Whether you're just getting started or looking to take your photo...2024-09-0954 min
The Edit | Photography Business PodcastMarketing, Motherhood, & Your Photography Business: Embrace Your Ambition With Laura SinclairStruggling to convert your social media followers into paying photography clients? You’re not alone.
Many photographers pour hours into creating captivating content, only to be met with minimal engagement and even fewer bookings.
It’s frustrating to see your beautiful work lost in the digital noise, especially when you know your business has so much potential.
Let Laura Sinclair's insights on funnel marketing and lead magnets provide the clarity and actionable steps you need to start turning those followers into loyal clients.
Get all the details and down...2024-06-0842 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastProtect Your Photography Business & Avoid Costly Mistakes With Lawyer Rachel Brenke➡️ Subscribe to The Edit Weekly for more expert tips for starting your photography business!
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🌟Our Favorite Photography Tools (Besides Gear)🌟
Check out our curated list of the brands and products that we love. These are great for starting a photography business! We may earn a small commission if you purchase from this list, which helps us continue making episodes for you! We only share products we use and love ourselves!
Timed Timer: Check it out! ➡ https://amzn.to/3SXA0FW
Do you have ADHD or just want a...2024-06-0152 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastSecrets to a Lasting Photography Career with Amanda WaltmanWe've heard Whitney's photography business journey as well as Erin's "origin story" - today we round out the team with a chat with Amanda about how she got here and what it takes to have such a long and successful career as a professional photographer.
From valedictorian to photography student to studio employee to burning out and back again (including her work with the Seattle Seahawks and Boeing!), there is so much to glean from Amanda's story, especially for photographers who are just getting started with their photography businesses.
Here's just a taste of what...2024-05-2543 min
The Edit | Photography Business PodcastPhotography Business Nightmares And How To Handle Them!So many things can go wrong when you are starting a photography business! In this week's episode, we share some of our nightmare stories, how we handled them, and what we learned in the process so you can be prepared in similar situations!
Join Erin, Amanda, and Whitney as we share our most bizarre and challenging professional experiences in the photography industry- and if you want to learn more about how to start a photography business, make sure you SUBSCRIBE to @TheEditWeekly for more advice on how to not only start your business but to thrive while doing it!
00:00 In...2024-05-1727 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastThe Top Photography Products to Sell: Our Favorite Add-On ProductsWelcome back to The Edit Weekly! (Have you subscribed to yet?! We’d love to have you!)
Today, we continue our Top Photo Products Series, where we share our favorites that our clients love. If you want to start a photography business or seek new product inspiration, you’ve come to the right spot! 📸
We consider Add-On products unique pieces that can accompany things like albums, prints, and wall art. These pieces are a great way to generate additional revenue and can also set you apart from the competition.
🌟HIGHLIGHTS!🌟
00:00 I...2024-05-1015 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastPhotography Business Success: Community Building, Outsourcing, & Sharing a Studio with Erin SmagalaFirst, be sure to subscribe for more honest conversation about starting your photography business!
Then, Download Our FREE Content Calendar!!! ➡️ https://theeditweekly.com/010-instagram-for-photographers/
We are thrilled to share our interview with The Edit Co-host, senior portrait photographer, and lovely human Erin Smagala!
Not only will you get to know Erin better, but she has so much wisdom to share in her 15+ years of experience as a successful photography business owner.
Plus, she shares the truly remarkable story of how she found out about her daught...2024-05-0438 min
The Edit | Photography Business PodcastStarting and Growing a Photography Business: Top 10 Tips You Must Follow To Be Professional: Part 2Welcome to Part 2 of the Top 10 Things You Must Follow To Be Professional!Along with our advice on what you need while growing your business, you will also hear stories about when we failed big time! It can happen to anyone!
We discuss marketing plans for photographers, having professional websites and email, business insurance, contracts, and Erin shares a bonus tip at the end!
Here are some helpful links to go along with what we share this week:
It’s so important to have a...2024-04-2724 min
The Edit | Photography Business PodcastStarting a Photography Business: Top 10 Tips You Must Follow To Be Professional: Part 1Starting a photography business? There are so many mistakes that you can make- and we’ve made them! In this episode, we share our top tips for starting out in your photography business so that you don’t have to make the same mistakes we did!
This week’s episode was so packed full of information that we decided to split it into two parts!
Begin with these first five tips—they’re enough for you to get going this week! Then, laugh along with us as we swap horror sto...2024-04-2013 min
The Edit | Photography Business PodcastStarting a Photography Business: What Pro Lab Should I Use? Our Favorite Print Products!Download Our FREE Albm Template!!! ➡️ https://theeditweekly.com/013-albums-for-pro-photographers/
EP015: Starting a Photography Business: What Pro Lab Should I Use? Our Favorite Print Products!
When you are starting a photography business, it’s overwhelming trying to decide what professional photo lab to use! There are so many great ones and so many beautiful products to choose from!
In today’s episode we discuss all things related to prints! You will learn:
1. How to choose a lab
2. What products to offer,
3. How to take care of prints
4. How to get samples
5. How to make your prints stand out to your clients...2024-04-1229 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastValues-driven, impact-focused photography businesses with KISS Books founder, Shaun Gordon.Episode links and resources: https://theeditweekly.com/014-shaun-gordon
Join Whitney Carlson, Erin and Amanda for an inspiring conversation with Shaun Gordon, the founder of KISS Books, as they dive into the transformative power of photography and the profound impact it can have on both the client experience and photographers' lives.
Shaun shares his journey from shooting a staggering 60+ weddings each season to crafting meaningful albums that champion the core values of being seen, being heard and making an impact on the lives of those around us.
Discover how to create a p...2024-03-3150 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastOur Favorite Photo Albums and Album Companies for Pro PhotographersAs wedding and portrait photographers, high-quality photo albums can be an incredibly lucrative (and artistically rewarding) product to offer your clients. The problem...?
There are just so. many. of. them. out. there. it's. ridiculous.
So we thought we'd do a little Show & Tell in this episode, sharing our absolute favorite albums and album companies for pro photographers.
Note: We have a TON of free stuff and additional links and resources for you to go with this episode, so be sure to check it all out at https://theeditweekly.com/013-albums-for-pro-photographers2024-03-1642 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastDouble-Down on What You Love: An Interview with Celebrity Photographer Allen ClarkJoin us for a nugget-filled episode of The Edit Podcast as we engage in an inspiring and candid conversation with commercial photographer Allen Clark. In this episode, Whitney Carlson, Erin Smagala, and Amanda Waltman dive into the overlapping worlds of commercial, portrait and wedding photography, sharing personal stories and professional insights that will resonate and inspire.
From nostalgic reflections on their first Minolta cameras to the evolution of digital photography, Allen Clark opens up about his journey from passion to profession. This episode is not just about cameras and equipment—it's a deep dive in...2024-03-0955 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastIdentity, Burnout, Community and Reviving your Passion with Whitney CarlsonThe Edit's own Whitney Carlson opens up about the struggle of intertwining her personal identity with her photography career, the vital importance of community, and how rediscovering photography for herself rekindled her passion. 📸✨
If you've ever felt creatively confined by client expectations or experienced burnout, this episode sheds light on the importance of personal creativity in photography and the significance of taking on projects for your own fulfillment. Dive into an honest conversation about managing a photography business with integrity, striking a balance between artistry and entrepreneurship, and the inspiring path Whitney has forged as a woman, a photographer and a...2024-03-0244 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastInstagram Tips for Pro Photographers with Gillian Young📸 Ready to enhance your Instagram strategy as a photographer? Join The Edit hosts - Whitney Carlson, Erin Smagala, and Amanda Waltman - in Episode 10 where we dive deep with Instagram guru Gillian Young.
🌟 Discover insider tactics for skyrocketing your online presence, maximizing productivity, and harnessing the power of collaborations on Instagram.
In this resource-packed session, Gillian shares exclusive tips on:
🌐 Crafting a compelling Instagram bio that captures your niche and audience
📈 Understanding Instagram's algorithm for consistent posting
💡 Using Instagram Stories for personal and behind-the-scenes insights
🤝 Leveraging the Collaborator featu...2024-02-2431 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastCan a CRM for Photographers ACTUALLY make you more money?Automating client management with a CRM for photographers
🎁 Grab the free resources from this episode at https://theeditweekly.com/009-crm-for-photographers
📸 In this episode of The Edit, we dive deep into the world of CRMs for photographers and how they can significantly impact your bottom line. Erin shares her firsthand experience using a CRM to streamline her photography business, automate client interactions, and ultimately increase her profitability. From setting up workflows to managing client experiences, Erin, Amanda, and Whitney discuss the ins and outs of CRMs, including specific software options such as Studio Ninja...2024-02-1734 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastCanva Tips for Pro Portrait & Wedding PhotographersSharing our top tips for working faster in Canva! Download Erin's free Canva Shortcuts Cheat Sheet and Amanda's free Reels Templates at https://theeditweekly.com/008-canva-for-photographers2024-02-1016 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastPhotography Marketing, Motherhood & Moving Markets with Ambreia TurnerAn intimate discussion with portrait photographer and educator Ambreia Turner.
Learn more about Ambreia and The Edit at https://theeditweekly.com/marketing-motherhood-moving-markets-with-ambreia-turner/2024-02-0444 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastChatGPT for Professional Portrait Photographers (with Examples!)Tips for streamlining your photography business with ChatGPT.
Grab the FREE Download: "1,100+ ChatGPT Prompts for Portrait Photographers" at https://theeditweekly.com/006-chatgpt-for-photographers2024-01-2733 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastBeginner's Guide to AI for Pro Portrait and Wedding PhotographersAI's influence on photography and client expectations2024-01-2029 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastSlow Season Strategies to Boost Your Photography BusinessPro tips for making the most of your slow season.
Get (tons) more tips from this episode at https://theeditweekly.com!2024-01-1327 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastA Refreshingly Simple Approach to Setting Photography Business Goals (And Hitting Them)Simplifying goal setting for photography business success.2024-01-0733 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastEP 02: From Paper Planners to Tech Tools: A Dive into Productivity for PhotographersWelcome to The Edit Podcast, where we dive into productivity strategies and time management tips to help you maximize your day. In this episode, hosts Whitney Carlson, Erin Smagala, and Amanda Waltman share their personal experiences with time management tools and techniques, tackling everything from identifying peak productivity times to using effective time zoning methods. Listen in as they discuss the benefits of utilizing retouching services for photographers to save time and increase productivity, and gain insights into using tools for streamlined workflow and client management.
If you're ready to boost your productivity and take control of your time...2023-12-2433 minThe Edit | Photography Business PodcastEP 01: Real Talk for Portrait Photographers on Navigating Business and Family LifeWelcome to The Edit Podcast! In this debut episode Whitney Carlson, Erin Smagala, and Amanda Waltman introduce themselves and share their combined 20+ years of experience in the photography industry. From discussing the challenges of balancing a successful photography business with family life to sharing strategies for achieving sustainable, profitable, and fulfilling businesses, this episode sets the stage for an insightful journey into the world of professional portrait photography.
Tune in to join 3 seasoned photography professionals as they curate strategies and share knowledge for the benefit of portrait and wedding photographers at every stage of their business. Get an inside...2023-12-2322 min