In this episode of Photo Fuel, I’m joined by Michelle Franzetti for a conversation that will knock your socks off, make you laugh, and make you think. It’s part photography marketing lesson, part mindset shift, and all about building a family photography business that actually works in today’s world.
Michelle shares how her background in marketing shaped the way she approaches her photography business, and why age-old principles still matter more than any algorithm tweak. We dig into what 2025 requires from small businesses, how to create a marketing plan that’s more than just “share and hope,” and the importance of designing seasons in your photography marketing so you have rhythm, clarity, excitement, and traction.
Michelle talks about why in-person connections are so powerful, even when they aren’t directly related to photography, plus the surprising criteria for a “successful” gathering that will make you want to host one tomorrow.
Listen on Apple | Listen on Spotify
Other topics we touch on in this episode around photography marketing:
- Michelle’s unexpected entry into marketing and how it shapes her photography business today
- A simple but timeless take on marketing: be interesting & connect with people
- What 2025 demands from small businesses and photographers (and how to adjust)
- Why posting and hoping is not a plan—and what’s missing from the equation
- How “marketing seasons” can keep you focused and motivated
- The overlooked magic of in-person connections for your photography business
- Why hosting meaningful & FUN gatherings can fuel both your community and your business longevity
This is a thoughtful, energizing conversation for any photographer who wants marketing to feel more human and be more effective for their local market.
// LINKS FROM THIS EPISODE //
Connect with Michelle:
Website: https://franzettiphotography.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/m_franzetti/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Michelle_Franzetti
Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/558214206287176
Connect with Leah:
Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo
Voxer Coaching: https://www.leahoconnell.com/voxer
The Firefly Letters (weekly longform newsletter) – https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter
You may also like:
Episode 54: Seasonal booking and creative growth with Lyndsay McNiff
Episode 52: Staying Open to Growth, Redefining Risk, and Betting on Yourself with Annemie Tonken
Big Picture Questions to Guide your Photography Business Goals
