Photo Fuel | The Vision, Art, and Business of Family Photography

The benefits (and numbers) behind adding school photography to your business

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 05:00:00 -0400

You're a family photographer, and like it that way... so where does school photography actually fit into your business — and is it worth the time?

This is part 2 of my school photography series, and today we're getting into the numbers. I'm sharing exactly what school photography looked like in my business in 2025, all done with the gear I already owned, while still photographing a full family photography fall season at my full rates.

We'll break down how much time it actually takes to photograph and process a school of about 100 students and why school photography is a marketing channel that pays you to introduce yourself to hundreds of local families. I'm also sharing a few real stories of school families who went on to book full sessions with me and how that conversion flow looks in real life.

Find It Quickly:
2:06 - Why you already have what you need to get started
8:04 - School photography as a marketing channel
12:00 - My 2025 numbers
16:17 - The time investment for a school of 100 students
20:00 - From school photos to full family sessions
22:11 - Bringing it all together

Mentioned in this Episode:

> Free guide: How to Land Your First School — https://leahoconnell.myflodesk.com/photochalk

Join the Photo Chalk early access list — https://leahoconnell.com/photochalk

Introduction to Outdoor School Photography (+ Photo Chalk enters the chat)

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Over time, we've decided as an industry that the way to make a school photos is to line a hundred kids up against a vinyl backdrop and give them 10 seconds to say cheese. We can do better!!

This episode is all about how I became so passionate about offering an alternative to school photography and why it's about more than a pretty picture or a money grab. We talk about why it's an easy yes for schools which schools it works well for, + why it's one of the best marketing streams you can build into your larger family photography business.

Stick around through the end because I'm officially letting you in behind the curtain of my new brand called Photo Chalk, the start-to-finish, privacy-first system my husband that is bringing warm, connected, and safe school photography into the modern age.

Find It Quickly:
5:46 - What outdoor school photography actually is
11:37 - Why schools say yes
16:58 - Why it's good for your business

20:00 - Intro to Photo Chalk - my start-to-finish school photography app and platform coming soon!

Mentioned in this Episode:
Get started and stay connected with Photo Chalk: (FREE GUIDE) How to Land Your First School — https://leahoconnell.myflodesk.com/photochalk

The Summer Reflection: 5 Questions for Quarterly Review and Prep

Mon, 07 Sep 2026 05:00:00 -0400

This summer brought a lot of unexpected delights and frustrations, personal curveballs and a business that needed to sway with them. When you work by yourself, it's easy to let seasons slide by until suddenly the whole year's gone by and you're asking yourself - WHAT JUST HAPPENED?!

This is the first in a new series of reflection episodes I want to record at the end of every quarter. It's a process I've been doing on my own for years, so I'm going to do it on the podcast for you to listen in on. Each quarter, I'll walk through the same five questions to get grounded about the previous quarter and look forward to the one ahead. I'm sharing the honest, unpolished version of what a working photographer's summer with three kids at home actually looks like, and even though my experience is unique to me, sometimes these peeks behind the curtain help us all feel a little less alone.

SIDE NOTE >>> an introduction to Photo Chalk, the new venture I've been quietly building around the business of School Photography and am so excited to start breaking the ice about.

Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode #35 : Big Picture Questions to Guide Your Photography Business Goals
Photo Fuel Mastermind (next round, Madison, VA — March 2027): leahoconnell.com/retreat
Photographer's-only email list: leahoconnell.com/learn

Photo Chalk news and updates: https://leahoconnell.com/photochalk

** If you love this show, please take a moment to leave a review in Apple Podcasts and share the love!**

Ditching Duct Tape Systems in Favor of Connection and Peace with Erin Wissig

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 05:00:00 -0400

We assume established photographers have it all figured out. Erin Wissig sees something different: talented, successful photographers whose backend systems never had the chance to catch up.

I'm talking with Erin about why so many of us end up duct-taping our systems together as our businesses grow, what it actually looks like to build automations that hold while still maintaining the flexibility for humanity. We talk about why the point was never the systems themselves — it's the peace of mind and relational space they free up.

We get into the fear of robotic systems in an industry that celebrates humanity, and why your system is only as good as your willingness to trust it.

Find It Quickly:
05:44 - Why established photographers still feel behind
16:42 - Automation isn't the opposite of connection
20:18 - One workflow change to make this week

Mentioned in this Episode:
Erin's favorite systems stack (free guide): https://erinwissig.com/podcast-listeners

Connect with Erin:
Instagram: @erin_wissig
Website: erinwissig.com

Connect with Leah:
Instagram: @leahoconnell_photo

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Free Resources + Newsletter: https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

The 'Why Not' Mindset (REPLAY)

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 09:14:11 -0400

This is the last in a series of summer replays for the podcast, but I thought a short and sweet reminder was just the thing to kick off the next season. It's one that applies to pricing, but also to your work as a whole - the art of it, the backbone of decisions and creation together.

I'm talking about the fear-based thoughts that show up around raising your rates, why "is there any reason not to?" is a better question than "should I?", and how confidence actually comes from competence - from doing the work, even when it doesn't go perfectly. I share a personal story from the early days of my business and building the thick skin it took to put myself out there with no connections to fall back on.

I hope this episode brings you some encouragement and energy to move forward into the fall asking better questions and getting better answers.

// STAY CONNECTED //
FREE RESOURCES: https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

PHOTO FUEL RETREAT & MASTERMIND: https://www.leahoconnell.com/retreat

A Fall Pep Talk for Family Photographers (REPLAY)

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 05:00:00 -0400

This episode was originally published this time last year, but I'm bringing it back because the reminders are still just as relavent!

It might still feel like summer, but fall is coming — and with it, the mix of excitement and overwhelm that hits every family photographer this time of year.

I'm walking through the four pain points that tend to hold us hostage in the fall:

- overbooking and burnout

- marketing struggles

- chaos with your systems

- and creative blocks.

For each one, I'm sharing what's actually worked for me and for the photographers I've worked with, including session limits and waitlists, why marketing is serving instead of selling (and how to treat it like that), building email templates before you need them, and small ways to keep your creativity fresh when you're shooting back to back.

Find It Quickly:
2:45 - Pain point 1: Overbooking and burnout
10:45 - Pain point 2: Marketing and visibility struggles
17:45 - Pain point 3: Lack of systems and organization
21:30 - Pain point 4: Creative blocks
26:00 - Closing pep talk

Mentioned in this Episode:
PhotoFuel Retreat and Mastermind: leahoconnell.com/retreat
Free resources: leahoconnell.com/learn

If you're loving a regular dose of Photo Fuel, please take a minute to leave a review and I'll send lots of virtual hugs your way! :-)

REPLAY | Why I don't offer fall mini sessions

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 05:00:00 -0400

In case you're starting to think about fall (good for you!!!) and setting those fall mini session dates - listen to this first! Not villianizing them, but simply offering an alternative approach and something to think about before you sell your soul to fall mini sessions. Since this episode, I've offered mini sessions each summer as a test (because I don't like making assumptions and wanted to make sure this advice held up - spoiler, it does. At least for me.)

Mentioned //

QT albums: get 20% off your first order with code FUEL20 or a free studio sample – just reach out and mention Photo Fuel and they’ll get you hooked up with your album sample

The Big Picture Workbook: https://www.leahoconnell.com/bigpicture

Mentoring with Leah : https://leahoconnell.com/mentoring

Group Coaching Waitlist: https://www.leahoconnell.com/retreat

Mini sessions are a great way to get started, practice, and develop your skills. But at a certain point, you can decide if it’s something that’s really aligned with your business goals… or not.

That’s what we’re digging into today – My 3 main arguments against doing fall mini sessions and a few ideas for how to supplement your business income or calendar instead.

Connect with Leah:
Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com/education

Instagram: https://instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

Putting in the website work to get found online with Jamie Bugbee

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 05:29:00 -0400

What business owner doesn't want to get found through Google and AI search? Jamie Bugbee spent over 20 years as a dental hygienist before postpartum depression led her back to a camera and a way to come home to herself. And once she put herself fully into learning and tackling SEO for family photographers, she was able to grow her photography business by 400% and leave her day-job to go full-time.

Jamie is a Portland-based family, maternity, newborn, and brand photographer who now teaches photographers how to grow through their own websites. We talk about the practical side of getting found online without leaning on social media: on-page and off-page SEO for family photographers, backlinks and local citations, and how to blog in a way that's actually built to be found - not just written and forgotten. We also cover the tools Jamie uses to track what's working and what's not working, silent killers to your page speed and searchability that might be working against you, and more.

Find It Quickly:

2:20 - From dental hygienenist to photography
5:00 - Picking up a camera again after having kids
12:00 - The mentorship that finally clicked
14:20 - The bones of modern SEO for family photographers
21:00 - Blogging effectively
27:30 - Tools for tracking what's working and what's not
30:15 - Jamie's Photo Fuel

Mentioned in this Episode:

Keywords Everywhere

White Spark,

Google Search Console

SEO Edge

Microsoft Clarity

Free Guide from Jamie: Luxury Client Journey

Connect with Jamie

Connect with Leah

Leah's website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Leah's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

Learn Page with free resources + stay connected : https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

Falling for Lifestyle, Session Prep, and Playing the SEO Long Game with Becca Lueck

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Becca Lueck has been photographing families in the Portland, Oregon area for 16 years, but she didn't find lifestyle photography until year seven. Once she did, everything changed. We talk about the before and after of learning to fall in love with the work you're doing, how it changes, and how to keep it interesting.

Becca is the founder of Becca Jean Photography, a membership for family photographers, and a suite of courses covering everything from business systems to video. She's also been blogging and building her SEO for years, to the point where she can now publish a post and rank on the first page within days.

In this episode, we talk about how she got there and how things look now. We also get into her video workflow — how she moves between photo and video inside a family session without losing momentum — and her honest take on where new photographers should put their energy.

Find It Quickly:

3:30 - Getting started
7:00 - Mini sessions and slow early growth
12:00 - Discovering lifestyle photography in 2017
20:00 - Client prep: email sequences other tools
27:00 - Styling guidance and client closets
30:00 - Adding video inside a family session
37:00 - SEO over Instagram
41:00 - Becca's membership
44:00 - Photo fuel: in-person events

Mentioned in this Episode:
Becca's Membership: https://courses.beccajeanphotography.com/p/family-photography-collective

Style and Select: https://styleandselect.com/

Becca's CRM: https://17hats.com/

How Becca edits film: Adobe Premiere Pro

How Becca edits photo: Imagin AI

Tristin Tracy: @tristentracy_photography

Connect with Becca:
Education: https://beccajeanphotography.com/education

Instagram: @beccajeanphotography

Connect with Leah:
PhotoFuel Retreat and Mastermind: leahoconnell.com/retreat
Free resources: leahoconnell.com/learn

Guide to In-Home Family Photography Part 4 - 8 Tips for What to Do When You're Stuck

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 05:00:00 -0400

You're halfway into a session, things are flowing, and then — nothing. The energy drops, your brain goes blank, and you're thinking - WHAT NOW.

This is the final part of the four-part in-home family photography series, and I'm giving you eight specific moves to pull out when a session stalls or you need to jolt yourself in to a new perspective.

Stay to the end for a preview of what's coming this summer!

Find It Quickly:

2:56 - 1: Three focal ranges
4:37 - 2: Shoot through something nearby
5:34 - 3: Doorways
6:41 - 4: Invite music
7:55 - 5: Invite play
9:00 - 6: Look for the moment, not the space
10:57 - 7: Use furniture in non-conventional ways
11:38 - 8: Let the mess be the story
13:10 - Recap
13:43 - Series wrap-up + how to get the field guide
14:52 - What to expect next on the podcast

Mentioned in this Episode:
In-Home Session Field Guide (free): leahoconnell.com/home-fieldguide
Photo Fuel Retreat and Mastermind: leahoconnell.com/retreat

Guide to In-Home Family Photography Part 3: Story Filters

Mon, 25 May 2026 05:01:00 -0400

In Part 1, we prepped. In Part 2, we got the ball rolling. This episode is all about how to open your dang eyeballs, guide with your heart, and sink into a session that is less pose and more honest family gold.

If you often leave sessions feeling like you checked the boxes but you never really GOT anywhere emotional, this is your next-level.

I originally learned the concept of "elements of family story" from Brooke Schultz, and Story Filters are my evolution of that over the last 5 years.

They're themes you carry into a session like a scavenger hunt — lenses for seeing what's actually in front of you rather than hunting for your next pose. I'm sharing what they are, how they work in practice, and a two-step process for developing your own. It's the thing that made the difference between galleries that are fine and work that actually means something.

Find It Quickly:

1:49 - Introducing Story Filters (your personal in-shoot scavenger hunt)
3:37 - Story filter examples
5:06 - Filters in action: how they change the way you see and direct
7:52 - Why filters matter: seeing people not subjects
9:28 - Direction vs. documentary: finding the middle ground
10:51 - How to develop your own filters
14:09 - Series recap + next episode preview
15:03 - How to get the Field Guide for all these tips in writing to reference for your next shoot

Mentioned in this Episode:

In-Home Session Field Guide (free): leahoconnell.com/home-fieldguide

Episode 72: Part 1 — The Walkthrough Video: https://leahoconnell.com/guide-to-in-home-family-photography-sessions-part-1-the-walkthrough-video/ https://leahoconnell.com/guide-to-in-home-family-photography-sessions-part-1-the-walkthrough-video/

Episode 73: Part 2 — The First 10 Minutes: https://leahoconnell.com/in-home-family-photography-series-part-2-the-first-10-minutes/

Also listen to:
Episode 59 with Brooke Schultz: https://leahoconnell.com/episode-59-messy-action-the-artful-pivot-and-creating-from-the-inside-out-with-brooke-schultz/

Guide to In-Home Family Sessions Part 2: The First 10 Minutes

Mon, 18 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

You've done your prep. You've watched the walkthrough video. You knock on the door - now what?

The first 10 minutes of an in-home session do more than most photographers realize. They're where trust gets built in person, the tone is set, and where you either make it feel like an experience or a performance.

I'm walking through five things that shift the energy in those opening minutes and two things I'm careful not to do in a session to help get it rolling on a good foot.

This is Part 2 of a four-part May series on practical in-home family photography tips. The guiding principles and recommendations for each episode can be found in the companion resource for free called : The In-Home Session Field Guide. You'll find swipe copy, pep talk language, and go-to moves for every stage of the session.

Find It Quickly:

2:30 - Why the first 10 minutes matter more than you think
5:00 - Tip 1 - hospitality
10:30 - Tip 2: Kid level
13:00 - Tip 3: Notice the good
15:30 - Tip 4: The loop
17:30 - Tip 5: The pep talk
21:00 - Transitional shooting before direction
22:30 - What not to do

Mentioned in this Episode:
In-Home Session Field Guide (free): leahoconnell.com/home-field-guide
Episode 72: Part 1 — The Walkthrough Video - https://leahoconnell.com/guide-to-in-home-family-photography-sessions-part-1-the-walkthrough-video/

Episode with Rachel Larsen Weaver: https://leahoconnell.com/an-interview-with-rachel-larsen-weaver-on-pursuing-the-love-of-art-business-and-people-photo-fuel-podcast-episode-13/

Guide to In-Home Family Sessions Part 1: The Walkthrough Video

Mon, 11 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

If you're working on improving your process for in-home family photography or adding home as a location this year, this series is for you! This first episode is one of four that kicks off a short, practical series on in-home family photography, starting with the one thing I do before every session to walk in feeling prepared.

This is the biggest asset to preparing for an in home shoot - without requiring a consult call, zoom meeting, or in-person scouting trip: the walkthrough video. I share how I ask for it about two weeks before an in-home session and what I'm looking for when I watch it. I also cover what to do when clients don't send a video, and why the goal of all this prep isn't a rigid plan but a confident, settled mindset before you even knock on the door.

Find It Quickly:

1:30 - The two traps in in-home sessions
3:00 - The mental shift required
4:30 - Asking for the walkthrough video
7:00 - When they don't send it
8:30 - What to look for : Light, Life, and Layers framework
12:30 - The real win, regardless of how it's executed in the end
14:30 - Part 2 preview + The In-Home Session Field Guide

Mentioned in this Episode:
In-Home Session Field Guide: leahoconnell.com/home-fieldguide >>

Episode 69: Stop Posing, Start Playing >>

Episode 55: Set the Table - how to stop expecting your clients to perform for you

Free resources: leahoconnell.com/learn >>

CONNECT WITH ME ON INSTAGRAM: @leahoconnell.photo

What I Learned From Hosting a Photography Retreat and Mastermind

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

A few weeks out from the first PhotoFuel Retreat and Mastermind, this episode is the honest debrief — what I got right, what surprised me, what I'd do differently, and one big decision I made about the future of the program.

Regular reflection is tool I use often in my photography business so I want to model what that looks like and how it can lead to purposeful alignment. If you're curious about the inner workings of crafting something new, I hope this episode models what it looks like to be in development rather than just seeing the end result.

Find It Quickly:
0:00 - Free resources at leahoconnell.com/learn
1:15 - Intro
3:00 - What I got right
8:30 - Why the in-between moments were king
12:30 - What I'm changing for the next round
16:30 - The biggest reason I think it worked
21:30 - The surprising tax I wasn't expecting
24:30 - A big decision about future rounds

Mentioned in this Episode:
PhotoFuel Retreat: leahoconnell.com/retreat
Episode 68: Why I Started a Retreat for Family Photographers

Thoughtful growth & the power of mentoring with Lydia Fine

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Have you ever wondered what working with a mentor actually looks and feels like over time?

Lydia Fine is back as our first-ever returning guest. She's a purposely part-time photographer with a full-time marketing career and two kids, and over the past few years she and I have worked together across just about every format. In this episode, she breaks down exactly what that journey has looked like: the doubts going in, the breakthrough that changed how she thought about her business, the numbers, and what it's meant for her life outside the business.

We also get into the harder questions — when someone is actually ready for mentoring, how to choose the right person, and what you have to be willing to bring to it. Lydia now mentors other photographers herself, specifically around systems and marketing strategies for part-time photographers, so her perspective comes from sitting on both sides of the table.

Find It Quickly:
2:30 - Where Lydia started: lack of confidence, scared to raise prices, feeling alone in decision-making
7:00 - The first doubt: was mentoring worth the cost if she was just making $15k a year?
9:00 - The 2024 breakthrough: you don't have to compete on photos alone
15:00 - How she helped me form my Voxer coaching package around making micro decisions and the in-between moments
21:00 - "Like a therapist for my business"
26:00 - The numbers: revenue doubled, then grew another 50%
30:00 - From $300 sessions to $1,025 to $1,850 (and her first $2k+ booking)
33:00 - When is someone ready for mentoring?
38:00 - How to choose the right mentor — and what to avoid
43:00 - Intentional rest, boundaries, and how support has helped her be a more present parent

Mentioned in this Episode:
PhotoFuel Retreat & Mastermind: www.leahoconnell.com/retreat
1:1 Mentoring: leahoconnell.com/education
Illuminate Courses: illuminateclasses.com

Connect with Lydia:
Photography Instagram: @lydia_apolloandivy
Education Instagram: lydiafine_forphotographers
Mentoring with Lydia: https://www.apolloandivy.com/for-photographers/photography-business-mentor/

Stop Posing, Start Playing

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The last thing you as a photographer want is for your family photo sessions to feel stiff or overly posed. That's why I believe in exploring the idea of creative play inside your sessions.

We just hosted the very first Photo Fuel Retreat and Mastermind, where we got to do exactly that. We not only found ways to bring more of each photographer into their businesses, but we also got to play with how they can break through the technicality of our work and bring more honesty and personality into it. That's what creates beautiful images for your families.

In this episode, I’m walking you through how to move beyond rigid posing and into something more alive and collaborative. Listen in as I share how curiosity (both about yourself and your clients) can completely transform the energy of your work.

Ready to reconnect with why you started and fall back in love with your business? The Photo Fuel Retreat is an intimate, in-person experience designed for family photographers who care deeply about storytelling, sustainability, and doing work that actually feels good. Think of it as your space to slow down, think deeply, and build real connection—with your craft, your values, and a small circle of like-minded creatives.

Join the Waitlist: leahoconnell.com/retreat

Find It Quickly:

1:29 - Why Sessions Feel Stiff

3:28 - Curiosity Over Perfection

6:10 - Curiosity with Yourself

7:09 - Breathe and Notice

10:36 - Curiosity With Your Subjects

13:37 - Trust the Unscripted

15:50 - Practice and Experiment

Mentioned in this Episode:

The Photo Fuel Retreat: leahoconnell.com/retreat

Why I Started a Retreat for Family Photographers—The Photo Fuel Retreat & Mastermind

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

What if the next step in scaling your business isn’t just about adding something new, but about building something that finally matches what you’ve believed all along? For a long time, I thought being a photography educator meant I needed a shop full of templates, mini-courses, and downloadable resources. While I've found that courses and digital products have their place, what I was longing for in my educational offerings went deeper. It needed real, in-person connection: Enter the Photo Fuel Retreat & Mastermind.

In this episode, I’m sharing how Photo Fuel Retreat & Mastermind became what it is today (and all the iterations that led to it). Listen in to hear how I started my educational offerings with digital products and found my way to building an in-person, immersive experience for family photographers who want real transformation, not just more information.

Find It Quickly

01:06 - Digital Products Felt Shallow

01:55 - Mentoring to Group Coaching Lessons

03:55 - Retreat Idea Takes Shape

06:13 - The Seed Planted Years Ago

07:26 - A Retreat That Changed Me

09:30 - Why Online Learning Falls Short

13:09 - Designing the MVP Retreat

14:30 - No Styled Shoots Real Sessions

17:20 - Community Over Competition

18:54 - Slow Impact Over Scaling

Mentioned in this Episode:

Join The Photo Fuel Retreat Waitllist: leahoconnell.com/schools-waitlist

Brooke Schultz's Love Soaked Retreat: brookebschultz.com/love-soaked

Ep 18 with Caitlin Alohilani Photography: leahoconnell.com/photo-fuel-episode-18-the-benefits-of-being-an-introverted-photographer-switching-careers-shooting-multiple-genres-and-more-with-caitlin-alohilani-photography/

Episode 9 with Mary Catherine Wickman: leahoconnell.com/connecting-with-clients-by-owning-your-story-photo-fuel-ep-09/

How to Break Through a Growth Plateau in Your Photography Business

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Have you ever looked at your work and thought, This is fine… but something feels off? In this episode, I’m talking about the sneaky middle season no one prepares you for—the growth plateau. It’s not burnout or failure. You’re seeing success, booking clients, and producing solid work. Deep down, though, you know what got you here isn’t going to get you there - wherever there may be for you.

I’ve been hearing this over and over in mentoring conversations lately. Photographers who feel bored, invisible, resentful about pricing, creatively flat, or just quietly craving something more—but they can’t quite name it. Listen in as we explore what might be holding you back.

Join the Waitlist: leahoconnell.com/retreat

Find It Quickly:

00:26 - The Sneaky Middle: Understanding the Growth Plateau

03:21 - Signs You’re on a Plateau

07:29 - Plateaus as Transition Points: Steady Seasons vs. It’s Time to Change

09:56 - Breaking Through: Better Questions, Discomfort, and Taking Creative Risks

13:35 - Self-Coaching Prompts: Find What’s Boring, Safe, and What You’re Avoiding

16:37 - Why Support Systems Matter

21:00 - The Retreat Details

Mentioned in this Episode:

The Photo Fuel Retreat: leahoconnell.com/retreat

Kids Photography Camps, School Photos, and Creative Offers to Support Your Business with Rebecca Hunnicutt

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Building a photography business doesn’t always mean choosing just one lane and staying there forever. For many photographers, the most sustainable paths are layered, seasonal, and shaped by the realities of life.

That’s exactly the story of my guest today, Rebecca Hunnicutt, a lifestyle family photographer based in Portland, Oregon. Rebecca and I first connected in real life at Reset Conference, and in this conversation we dive into the many branches of her work—from family photography to school photography to teaching both photographers and kids.

We talk about how school photography became not just a revenue stream, but a strategic and sustainable foundation that supports her family work, and what it really looks like to juggle multiple niches.

Make School Photos a Part of Your Photography Business

If you've been thinking about adding school photography to your offerings, the Picture Day course is exactly what you need. Learn how to market, book, photograph, and deliver outdoor school photography for local daycares and schools to fuel your family photography business and boost your income.

Join the Waitlist: leahoconnell.com/schools-waitlist

Find It Quickly:

01:53 - Meet Rebecca Hunnicutt

03:02 - Rebecca's Photography Journey

04:22 - The Intersection of Family and School Photography

06:54 - Teaching Photography to Kids

08:49 - Challenges and Rewards of Photography Camps

10:49 - Balancing Multiple Photography Ventures

15:08 - The Importance of Seeing Differently

18:59 - Exploring New Ideas for Photography Courses

20:10 - Balancing Multiple Business Angles

20:58 - Challenges of Managing School Photography

23:06 - Streamlining Family Photography Operations

26:58 - Innovative Customer Service Solutions

29:57 - Future Goals and Personal Motivation

30:42 - The Joy of Travel Photography

33:36 - Creative Solutions for Business and Personal Life

Mentioned in this Episode:

Photo Fuel Retreat Waitlist: leahoconnell.com/retreat

School Photography Course Waitlist: leahoconnell.com/schools-waitlist

Airtable: airtable.com

Photography Education: elenasblair.com

Connect with Rebecca

Website: hunnicuttphotography.com

Instagram: instagram.com/rebecca.hunnicutt.photography

Instagram: instagram.com/rebecca.hunnicutt.education

Analog Marketing for Family Photographers

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0500

If you have ever felt overwhelmed by how loud and crowded it feels online with the constant posting, optimizing, and trying to stay visible, you are not alone. Over the past few years, I have found myself quietly moving toward something slower, more personal, and more sustainable: analog marketing.

This shift started with my newsletter, The Firefly Letters. It became a space where I could be more honest, more thoughtful, and more myself than anywhere else online. That small decision to write more intimately led to something bigger: a deeper interest in creating real, human connections that extend beyond the screen.

That's when I made the shift from marketing as a performance to marketing with intent. In today's episode, I'm sharing how I've gone analog in my business and what that looks like for this year. Listen in as I highlight a few ways you can incorporate analog marketing into your own business!

A Creative Reset for Family Photographers

Join the Waitlist: https://leahoconnell.com/retreat

Find It Quickly:

01:37 - Embracing Analog Methods in Marketing

04:22 - Introduction to Photo Fuel

04:47 - Analog Marketing Method 1: Snail Mail

08:41 - Analog Marketing Method 2: Hosting Local Gatherings

17:10 - Analog Marketing Method 3: Outdoor School Photography

20:08 - Analog Marketing Method 4: In-Person Education Retreats

Mentioned in this Episode:

Photo Fuel Retreat Waitlist: https://leahoconnell.com/retreat

School Photography Course Waitlist: https://leahoconnell.com/schools-waitlist

The Firefly Newsletter: https://leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Free Resources: https://leahoconnell.com/learn

Connect with Leah

Leah's website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Leah's IG: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

Your Prices Aren’t the Problem (It’s Just January)

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0500

Does your quiet January inbox have you spiraling about your prices? You’re not alone. This time of year has a way of bringing out the darkest corners of our business fears.

Questions like, “Did I price myself out of my market?” or “Will I ever get inquiries again?” swirl in the silence of a post-holiday lull. If we can learn to spot the pattern, we can break the cycle and make better decisions for the long game.

Get Clear on Your Big Picture:

If you’re feeling swirly about your business right now, it’s probably not because you need a new strategy—it’s because you haven’t slowed down enough to see the big picture. The Big Picture Workbook walks you through 10 thoughtful prompts to help you zoom out, get clear on your direction, and make confident decisions as a family photographer. You can print it or journal digitally and revisit it anytime you need grounding.

Download Now: https://leahoconnell.com/bigpicture

Find It Quickly:

00:24 - Understanding Pricing Anxiety

02:25 - Seasonal Nature of Family Photography

04:34 - Data-Driven Decision Making

11:59 - Client Communication and Feedback

15:50 - Financial Strategies and Adjustments

20:30 - Mentoring and Support Options

Mentioned in this Episode:

Big Picture Workbook: https://leahoconnell.com/bigpicture

Photographers-Only Email List: https://leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Photo Fuel Retreat & Mastermind Waitlist: https://leahoconnell.com/retreat

Voxer Coaching: https://leahoconnell.com/voxer

Connect with Leah

Leah's website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Leah's IG: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

One Step at a Time: Curiosity, Generosity, and the Creative Life with Dave Herring of VeryGood Co.

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 07:10:54 -0500

Dave Herring is a photographer, educator, and founder of Very Good CO. He’s also a creative nomad and a long time friend.

In this episode of Photo Fuel, I chat with Dave about how curiosity led him to a whole new career as a photographer and educator. From leaving the East Coast and relocating his family to California with no concrete plan, to working with brands like Leica and Hasselblad, Dave shares how paying attention to what felt meaningful—and staying generous along the way—shaped his career and a life that supports his ultimate measure of success: being in charge of his time.

We talk about blending past experience into creative work and how free content and generosity have become foundational to his business. This conversation is packed with stories that will inspire you and leave you feeling hopeful for all that’s possible.

Even though Dave is primarily a landscape photographer, this episode offers new perspective we all need on the value of metrics, making decisions in your business, and what it really means to make art your work—one thoughtful step at a time.

// LINKS MENTIONED //

Blog Post: "Generosity changed everything:" https://dave.online/writings/how-generosity-changed-everything

Very Good CO: shopverygood.com

Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/

STEPHEN SHORE Photo books:

Stephen Shore by STEPHEN SHORE - Book: 9781633450486 | Rizzoli Bookstore

// CONNECT WITH DAVE //

Dave’s youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidherring
DAVE’S WEBSITE: Dave.online

// CONNECT WITH LEAH //

Leah's website: https://www.leahoconnell.com
Leah's IG: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

Micro Pivots - You don't need to burn it all down

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What if you didn’t need to burn down your photography business to feel better in it?

In this solo episode of Photo Fuel, we'll explore the idea of micro-pivots—small, intentional changes that can bring more clarity, energy, and alignment to your work without rebranding, quitting, or announcing a brand-new niche.

This conversation is for family photographers who still love what they do, but feel a quiet sense of restlessness. Maybe sessions feel heavier than they used to. Maybe your creativity has shifted before your business has caught up. Or maybe you just know something needs to change—but you don’t know what yet.

We talk about:

What micro-pivots are (and what they’re not)
Signs you may be craving a small shift, not a big overhaul
Creative, structural, and offer-based micro-pivots you can try
How to experiment without risking your income or identity
Why sustainable change often happens quietly

If you’ve been wondering whether it’s possible to evolve without starting over, this episode offers permission, perspective, and practical ways forward.

// LINKS MENTIONED //

Episode 61: From Families to Brand Photography with Nicole Hodgson

Episode 59: Messy Action, The Artful Pivot, and Creating from the Inside Out with Brooke Schultz

Episode 56: The Missing LInk to your Photography Marketing with Michelle Franzetti

The Micro-Pivots Journalling Workbook : https://leahoconnell.myflodesk.com/pivot

// CONNECT //

Leah's website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

IG: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

From Families to Brands | How Nicole Hodgson Reinvented Her Photography Business

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re kicking off a short series all about pivoting, evolving, and exploring new creative seasons as a photographer. It’s so easy to stay siloed inside the same family photography conversations, hearing the same strategies and the same voices. But there is so much to learn from photographers who step outside the familiar and build something new.

Today’s guest—Nicole Hodgson—is the perfect guest to kick it off.

Nicole is a former marriage and family therapist turned lifestyle brand photographer based in Northern California. She began her business photographing families, but over time, her sessions started filling with women who were also building businesses of their own. That pattern nudged her toward a new direction, and eventually, a full pivot into brand photography.

In this warm and candid conversation, we talk about:

The early signs that her niche was shifting
The first steps she took to bring a new direction to life
The identity work behind rebuilding a business from the ground up
The honest pros and cons of family photography
How her past career shaped her perspective as an artist and entrepreneur
The confidence it takes to be the face of your brand
The power of journaling for capturing new ideas and having confidence with executing on them

Nicole shares her approach to a new pricing model for brands vs what made sense for her family clients and the financial logic behind marketing to brands versus families—an incredibly helpful lens for anyone curious about expanding their services.

Whether you’re considering brand photography, navigating your own pivot, or just wondering what else is possible in this industry, this episode is a reminder that your identity, your opportunities, and your creativity are bigger than any niche.

// LINKS MENTIONED //

Rebrand with Maddie Peshong: https://www.maddiepeschong.com/brand-photography
Episode 18: The benefits of being an introverted photographer switching careers, shooting multiple genres, and more with Caitlin Alohilani
Free Resources for Family Photography Education: https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

// CONNECT //

Nicole Hodgson

Website: www.nicolehodgsonphotography.com

Instagram: @nicolehodgson.photography

Leah O'Connell

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Instagram: @leahoconnell.photo

My 2025 Photography Business Tech Stack | The Big 4

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This episode is releasing on the week of Thanksgiving, which is also a big time for holiday deals and making purchases for your business. This is a short and sweet chat to share my Top 4 Essentials as far as software for running my business. This powerful combo is the nuts and bolts of my marketing, sales, communication and delivery - the tech stack of dreams.

If you're thinking of upleveling your tooling or getting started with some client experience systems to scale your work, listen in to learn more about what each tool does, why I chose it, how they connect to one another, and what to consider most if you’re shopping for smarter systems this season.

// LINKS MENTIONED //

Episode: 25: Navigating Black Friday for family photographers
Episode 31 : Your Black Friday Investment Plan

Episode 46: Why I switched to Honeybook and how it’s going: (on spotify)
(on apple podcasts)

Honeybook referral link: https://share.honeybook.com/leah9738526

Pictime referral link: https://leahoconnell.pic-time.com/referral

Flodesk referral link: https://flodesk.com/c/PHOTOFUEL

Showit referral link: https://showit.com/r/jt922s

The Photo Fuel Retreat & Mastermind: https://www.leahoconnell.com/retreat

Messy Action, The Artful Pivot, and Creating from the Inside Out with Brooke Schultz

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 09:30:30 -0500

In this episode, I chat with the wise and wonderful Brooke Schultz — photographer, educator, and creative force behind Heartful Magazine— for a deep dive into the art and evolution of a career in family photography.

Brooke Schultz is a Utah based family photographer + industry educator who helps family photographers create their own unique style instead of mimicking trends. She is the founder of the Love Soaked method for family photographers and her work has been featured by Oprah, Martha Stewart, Kodak, Rangefinder, Parents and more. Her work across mediums from podcasting to music to writing explores what it means to live a wildly creative life in art and everyday living through intention, fun, and ingenuity.

We go through so many topics in today's conversation, but Brooke generously shares how she first discovered lifestyle family photography, what it means to take messy action, and why naivete can be one of your greatest creative assets. We unpack what it means to develop a signature style, why your story and values must be part of your work, and how to balance serving clients with honoring your own artistic fulfillment.

If you’ve ever struggled with burnout, comparison, or feeling like your clients are running the show, this conversation will help you find your footing as both an artist and a leader. It weaves between practical and big-picture in the best of ways.

🗝️ In This Episode

How Brooke transitioned from digital weddings to soulful in-home family sessions
The power of messy action and why your early “bad” images matter
Why your personal story is the foundation of your style
The truth behind the phrase “the only sustainable art is selfish”
What it means to “set the temperature” and lead sessions with confidence
Why being the calm, grounded presence your clients crave is part of your job
How personal growth and artistic growth go hand-in-hand

// LINKS MENTIONED //

Connect with Brooke: Website | Instagram

- The Emotive Bootcamp: https://brookebschultz.com/emotivebootcamp

- Heartful Magazine: https://heartful.brookebschultz.com/

Dr. Becky Kennedy — mentioned in connection to “sturdy leadership”

Connect with Leah: Website | Instagram

- The Photo Fuel Retreat and Mastermind: https://www.leahoconnell.com/retreat

What Even Is a Mastermind?! Inside the Photo Fuel Retreat for Family Photographers

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

WHAT EVEN IS A MASTERMIND?!
In today's episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on my upcoming Retreat + Mastermind: what it is, who it’s for, how it works—whether or not it could be your next best yes if you're ready to step into a new chapter of growth for your business and art.

We’ll explore:

Why doing solo courses and tutorials work great until they don't anymore.
How hands-on work and meaningful real-time feedback can create a shift in your work (so you quit memorizing poses and start seeing beauty and opportunity).
What the retreat/mastermind includes
Who this experience is made for and when you might not be quite ready for it
How this experience is different from other retreats and masterminds in the photography world
The common hesitations—“Is it worth it?” “Am I experienced enough?” “How will this fit my life and family?”—and honest answers to each
My personal stories from retreats and masterminds in my own career journey and how they shaped me, because I'm not blowing smoke - I know from experience

Even if the Photo Fuel Retreat isn't for you right now, this episode is full of insight into next-level education and what it looks like so when you *are* ready to take that step in your career, you know what to look for.

Head to https://www.leahoconnell.com/retreat for all the details in and make sure you're on the waitlist for first dibs when spots open later this week (Nov 2025). As always, reach out any time with your feedback or questions via email or IG @leahoconnell.photo to chat about if this next step is right for you.

Let’s re-ignite your creative fire, align your business with your life, and make work that fuels your creativity, your art, your business, and your people.

//

CONNECT WITH LEAH
website: https://www.leahoconnell.com
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

Back To School Ask Me Anything | Family photography, school photos, burnout, submissions + more

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

This week's Photo Fuel is time to get candid and answer some of your direct questions! From the reality of avoiding burnout (is it even possible?!) to the behind-the-scenes of school photography, I've got some THOUGHTS.

We’ll talk about setting yourself up for success in your first years, film vs. digital (gasp) how to handle feedback or rejection when it comes to things like magazine submissions, and stick around until the end of this episode becaaaaause—I have a big announcement!

The very first Photo Fuel Retreat is coming to Virginia in the Spring of 2026!

Whether you’re just starting your family photography business or you’ve been at it for a while and are looking for perspective and some relatable honesty about the industry, this AMA episode has something for you!

// LINKS MENTIONED //

Episode 5: 6 Shifts that Helped Me Grow My Business
Episode 30: My Story - The roots, experience, failures, and inspirations that shaped my photography business + paying it forward
Episode 42 : 3 Times Photographers Should Shoot for Free + a case for generosity

School Photography Course Interest : Sign up here

THE PHOTO FUEL RETREAT & MASTERMIND: https://www.leahoconnell.com/retreat

The Missing Link to Your Photography Marketing with Michelle Franzetti

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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 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 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 and what the real criteria is for a "successful" gathering.

We talk about:

Michelle’s unexpected entry into marketing and how it shapes her business today
A simple but timeless take on marketing: be interesting & connect with people
What 2025 demands from small businesses (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
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 more effective.

// 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

Set the Table: how to stop expecting your clients to perform for you and make anyone feel welcome

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 11:12:59 -0400

Today's episode is coming in short and sweet with a pep talk / tough love about a trend I've been seeing in the family photography industry. If you've been frustrated about working with families who aren't showing up and looking or acting the way you hoped, you need to take a listen. Have an open mind and humble spirit for this one, friends.

We are the vision casters and it's time we set a table that is welcoming.

**Two 1:1 and/or Voxer mentorships open for the last quarter of 2025. If you want extra support in real time through your fall family photography season, learn more about mentoring at https://www.leahoconnell.com/mentoring

Free Resources for family photographers: https://www.leahoconnell.com/education

// CONNECT WITH LEAH //

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Mentoring: https://www.leahoconnell.com/mentoring

Strategic, Seasonal Booking and Creative Evolution in Family Photography with Lyndsay McNiff

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 07:44:20 -0400

In this episode, I’m joined by the incredibly talented Lyndsay McNiff of Lyndsay Hannah Photography. This one’s packed with the kind of perspective that only comes from learning through the doing (for a very long time!) and so much knowledge about creative growth in family photography.

We talk about what it really looks like to fill a calendar season by season—not just chasing bookings, but shaping a business that fits your life. Lyndsay shares so many real-life insights about the early years of running a family photography business, from finding her footing with marketing to figuring out her offers, and how she has grown a reputation and repeatable business in her local area.

We also get into ideas around creative evolution—like how your style shifts over time. Lyndsay shares how learning off-camera flash changed the game for her in-home sessions and the horrible session experience story that set the whole thing off. Since then, Lyndsay has also grown from family photography into adding brand photography as well, and working with associates to support her demand.

Whenever we're talking about sustainability and growth in family photography, we obviously have to touch on boundaries, too. Lyndsay's tactical perspective on scheduling sessions with flexibily for both her clients and her own family is so insightful and might offer an alternative to the classic advice you've heard before.

If you’re somewhere in the middle of building your business—or honestly, just figuring it out season by season—this one’s going to meet you right where you are.

// LINKS //

Connect with Lyndsay:
Website: https://lyndsayhannahphotography.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lyndsayhannahphotography/
Off-camera Flash for Beginners Course: https://lyndsayhannahphotography.com/off-camera-flash-for-photographers

Connect with Leah:
Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell_photo
Free Resources: https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

The Four Fall Photography Pitfalls & How to Avoid them, + A Pre-Fall Peptalk

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Fall photography season can feel like a whirlwind. Once you're in it, it's full steam ahead. Sure it's typically the most profitable for family photographers, but it can also be the most overwhelming. In this episode, I'm candidly breaking down four common fall pitfalls that can derail your season, plus practical strategies to set yourself up for success.

The four traps we unpack are

The Overbooking Trap
Forgetting about Marketing
Systems Chaos
& Creative Blocks

Plus, I won't leave you spinning - this episode wraps with a pre-fall pep talk to remind you are the BOSS. Trusting yourself to make those choices is where the real power lies. Let's prep for fall together by getting ahead of the mess and choosing to be in charge.

// LINKS MENTIONED //
Ep 28: 4 Ways to Build Momentum when you're *NOT* busy in the fall

The Complete Guide to Flodesk for Family Photographers: https://leahoconnell.com/the-complete-guide-to-flodesk-for-family-photographers/

Try Flodesk for 50% off - https://flodesk.com/c/PHOTOFUEL

Try Honeybook: https://share.honeybook.com/leah9738526

Other CRM's options for photographers:
Iris Works

Cloudspot
Dubsado
Sprout Studio

Shootproof

Staying Open to Growth, Redefining Risk, and Betting on Yourself with Annemie Tonken

Mon, 19 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this week’s episode of Photo Fuel, I sit down with Annemie Tonken—photographer, educator, and host of the This Can’t Be That Hard podcast—for a thoughtful, no-fluff conversation about what it really takes to run a sustainable photography business in a changing world.

This conversation goes beyond productivity hacks or pricing formulas, because while all those logistics are so important, they are secondary to the heart and brains of your business. So today we’re talking about things like how handle discomfort and failure, the parallels between business and parenting, and how to find peace and momentum even when things feel hard.

We talk about things like:

Addressing risk and ego in entrepreneurship
How to push through discomfort without heading toward burnout
Finding strength and opportunity amidst market shifts
How to raise your prices or shift your editing style with confidence
Building predictability in a seasonal or uncertain market
How to find peace, empowerment, and creative fuel in tough times

// LINKS //

Connect with Annemie:

Annemie’s Website: thiscantbethathard.com
Revenue on Repeat: https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/revenue

Connect with Leah:

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Education + *NEW* Voxer Coaching https://www.leahoconnell.com/education

Join The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Join the Email List for Photographers - https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

Spring Checkpoint (+ a podcast update)

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

We’re now over 50 episodes into the Photo Fuel Podcast, and I’m coming to you from the messy middle with some real talk. In this episode, I’m sharing a big update on the future of the podcast and why I’m choosing to step back from weekly episodes—for now.

If you’ve been tuning in regularly, you know I’m all about sustainable business practices and aligning your creative work with your actual life. In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of my own quarter-end reflection around creating educational content and the red flags that have me pausing.

+ 5 questions you can add to your own regular checkpoints to make sure you're growing in the right direction.

Whatever your dreams and visions were for the first part of the year, I hope you'll give yourself grace to consider the full picture.

// LINKS MENTIONED //

Episode 6 - The Key Ingredient to your success

Episode 8 - Resetting your inspiration when you don't feel like shooting

The Shop - https://www.leahoconnell.com/shop

Learn Page - https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

// CONNECT WITH LEAH //
Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Help clients decide what to wear (without being a stylist or stocking a client closet).

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

One of the biggest questions that comes up for clients when preparing for their session is "what do I wear?" As the photographer, it's good service to help them with that! But that doesn't mean you have to become a full-on stylist, stock a client closet, or put them in a cookie cutter formula of "what looks good." Of course, full styling is an option that serves some photographers and clients very well! It's all about your goals and the type of images you're marketing.

But if you want to empower your clients to make clothing choices that feel natural and genuine to their actual style and make them feel great just being themselves... this episode is for you.

I'm coming in with 6 tips to help your clients decide what to wear without *TELLING* them what to wear. This episode is quick and actionable to encourage you that providing great customer experience can look a lot of different ways (and so can your clients!).

// LINKS MENTIONED //

connect with Leah: www.leahoconnell.com

1:1 mentoring: https://www.leahoconnell.com/mentoring

THE SHOP: https://www.leahoconnell.com/shop

IG: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

Extended Family Sessions: My Approach & Tips for Success

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Extended family sessions can feel like a whole different ballgame compared to standard family shoots—more people, more potential, and more opinions! In this episode, I’m sharing why I actually love extended family sessions and how you can approach them with confidence and creativity.

We’ll cover:

Why photographing at home makes a difference and how to make it work
My philosophy on pricing extended family sessions
Balancing posed portraits with candid, natural moments
Navigating group dynamics, including when tension arises
Activities that help families relax and connect naturally
Tips for keeping it fun, intentional, and drama-free

Whether you already love extended family sessions or they make you nervous, this episode will give you practical strategies to create beautiful, meaningful images—no matter the size of the group.

// LINKS MENTIONED //

THE SHOP: https://leahoconnell.myflodesk.com/wnln59l5yj

Blog posts about extended family sessions:

A backyard large extended family session

Extended family photos at home with all adults

An extended family session at home (with Thanksgiving dinner + backyard baseball!)

// CONNECT WITH LEAH //

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com/education

Learn for free: https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

IG: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

Building a Bold Brand & Exceptional Client Experience with Christine Dammann

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Creating a standout brand and an unforgettable client experience is key to building a thriving photography business, and Christine has mastered both. In this episode, she shares how her bold, playful branding attracts her dream clients and how she ensures stress-free, enjoyable sessions through thoughtful preparation and communication.

From detailed prep guides to surprise gifts and heartfelt follow-ups, Christine’s client experience strategies go the extra mile. In this episode she gives us all the details for her process from start to finish.

We also dive into the importance of finding community, trusted mentorship, and staying inspired through playing with your camera just for fun! Whether you're looking to refine your workflow, strengthen client relationships, or elevate your brand, this episode is packed with insights to help you refine your family photography business with purpose.

// CONNECT WITH CHRISTINE //

www.christinedammann.com

IG: @christinedammannphotography

Christine’s freebie for glowing google reviews: https://christinedammann.com/google-freebie

// OTHER LINKS MENTIONED //

Christine's Brand design by Bella Maven: https://bellamavenstudio.com/

// CONNECT WITH LEAH //

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com/education

Learn for free: https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

IG: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

COMING SOON - THE SHOP: leahoconnell.com/shop

One Year of Photo Fuel: A Candid Q&A on Business, Conferences, Balance, Social Media, and more

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 05:09:00 -0400

🎉 Happy One-Year Anniversary to Photo Fuel! 🎉

This week marks a full year since I launched this podcast, and I want to celebrate with a special Q&A episode! I asked my email list to send in their biggest questions—about photography, business, motherhood, and more—and wow, you guys delivered.

In this candid, coffee-chat-style episode, I’m answering:
📸 How to handle tricky toddlers in family sessions
🎤 Behind the scenes of the Reset Conference
💡 My biggest accomplishment in business
📱 How to approach social media as a new photographer
👩‍👧‍👦 How my business changed after having kids

Thank you for being here—this milestone wouldn’t be possible without you! 💛

// Links & Resources Mentioned//
📌 Lovesoaked Course (Affiliate)
🎧 Free Audio Training: 3 Tips for Endless Posing Variety
🎟️ The Reset Conference
💬 Book a Free 1:1 Mentoring Call → leahoconnell.com/call
📊 Right Track Audits → leahoconnell.com/righttrack

Enjoying the podcast? If you’ve been loving Photo Fuel, I’d be so grateful if you could leave a quick rating or review on Apple Podcasts with why you love the show! And always feel free to DM me (@leahoconnell.photo) to let me know what you'd love to see more of on the show in the next year!

Why I switched to Honeybook : takeaways from my migration + how it's going so far

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Around Black Friday last year, I made a big decision to switch my CRM from Sprout Studio to HoneyBook—a huge move after nearly five years with the same CRM. One of my big goals for Q1 was managing this migration myself, and in this episode, I’m sharing how it’s going so far.

I’ll walk you through:
✨ Why I decided to make the switch (and why this isn’t a Sprout Studio takedown!!!)
✨ My top three favorite things about HoneyBook as a newbie user
✨ What made the transition challenging and what I’m still figuring out
✨ Thoughts on HoneyBook’s pricing and features compared to Sprout

If you’ve been considering a CRM switch, or if you just want to refine your client experience, this episode is packed with insights! Plus, if you want to try HoneyBook, you can grab 30% off your first year with my link below + in the full show notes.

// LINKS MENTIONED //

TRY HONEYBOOK: https://share.honeybook.com/leah9738526

TRY PICTIME: https://leahoconnell.pic-time.com/referral
TRY SHOWIT: https://showit.com/r/jt922s

Grab coffee with me! Schedule a free 20 minute call to talk business and see if/how I can help: https://www.leahoconnell.com/call

// CONNECT WITH LEAH //

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

The Booking Call Debate: Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 07:34:34 -0500

The client booking call—also known as a discovery call or inquiry call—is one of the most debated steps in the photography client experience. Some photographers swear by it as a way to increase bookings and build trust, while others feel it creates unnecessary barriers. So, do you really need to require a phone call before a client books?

In this episode, we’re breaking down:

- The pros of booking calls, including stronger client connections, simplified planning, and a high-touch experience.
- The cons of booking calls, like scheduling challenges, added barriers for busy clients, and hidden pricing concerns.
- Alternatives to phone calls that still create a smooth and aligned client experience—without the hassle.

If you’ve ever wondered whether to include (or ditch) phone calls in your workflow, this episode will help you decide what fits best for you and your business!

// LINKS MENTIONED //

https://www.leahoconnell.com/homestyle

https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Honeybook: https://share.honeybook.com/leah9738526

Showit: https://showit.com/r/jt922s

// CONNECT WITH LEAH //
Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

Full Show Notes and Written Recap of the Episode: https://leahoconnell.com/should-you-incorporate-a-phone-call-in-your-photography-client-experience/

The 4 Stages of a Connection-Driven Client Experience

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Your client experience is more than just delivering a beautiful gallery—it’s the foundation of a thriving, relationship-driven photography business. In this episode, we break down the four key stages of client experience: Attracting, Nurturing, Serving, and Continued Connection.

A solid client experience isn't necessarily about extreme high touch details or expensive gifts (it can be, but it doesn't have to - nor do those always make sense!). Whether you're starting from scratch or looking for ways to tweak your processes for more alignment, this episode is packed with both specific examples and overarching ways to think about client experience from a new angle.

// LINKS MENTIONED //

THE HOMESTYLE ACCELERATOR : https://www.leahoconnell.com/homestyle

THE FIREFLY LETTERS: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

EPISODE 20: 6 unique ways to nurture your family photography clients. https://leahoconnell.com/ep-20-6-ways-to-nurture-your-family-photography-clients/

TRY HONEYBOOK: https://share.honeybook.com/leah9738526

Crafting a Client Experience That Works No Matter Where You Are with Natasha Sewell

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What happens when you have to rebuild your photography business in a brand-new location?

How do you create an intentional client experience that blends your own skills and capacity with your market needs?

In this episode, guest Natasha Sewell helps us explore the challenges and strategies of moving a photography business while maintaining (and improving) your client experience. Pivots can be scary and hard, but Natasha shares first hand experience with making it work, and growing even more passionate in the process. We talk about how she shifted her shooting style from posed newborns in studio to lifestyle in-home sessions, re-established her brand in a new market, and refined her process to attract and serve her target people in a new area.

Whether you're planning a move or just want to refine your client experience, this episode is packed with specific examples and ideas about how to create a seamless, sustainable business from wherever you are.

// LINKS MENTIONED //

Connect with Natasha:
IG: instagram.com/npsphotography

Website: npsphotography.com

The Client Experience Blueprint: https://npsphotography.com/the-client-experience-blueprint-waitlist

Contact Pages That Serve: Create Connection and Confidence: https://npsphotography.com/contact-pages-that-serve

The Focussed Path Retreat: https://npsphotography.com/the-focused-path-retreat/

Connect with Leah:

IG: @leahoconnell.photo
Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

The Homestyle Accelerator Waitlist: https://www.leahoconnell.com/homestyle

3 times family photographers should shoot for free (+ a case for generosity)

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I'm tackling a controversial topic: shooting for free.

When is it worth it, and how can it benefit your growth as a family photographer?

I’ll share three instances where free shoots are a great move, plus, I’ll offer tips for handling free sessions with professionalism, creativity, and control (despite the free price tag).

Whether you're just starting out or years into your photography career, this episode will inspire you to rethink the value of generosity and creativity.

// LINKS //

Full show notes: https://www.leahoconnell.com/

Leah's website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Connect on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

Mentoring / book a free discovery call - https://www.leahoconnell.com/mentoring

What every family photographer needs to know about "conveying value"

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This week, I'm addressing a question from the Photo Fuel Facebook group about pricing around the common concern - how do I “convey the value.”

In this episode, we'll address how to structure a package so it feels good in your gut and your wallet, what to include in it and what to leave behind. I’m going to give you 3 main points to consider when thinking about your package structure and setting your pricing, no matter where you are in business.

If pricing is giving you a headache and you feel torn between following trends and advice and wrestling with your own ideas among all that, this episode is your next best thing.

// LINKS MENTIONED //

TONIC templates: https://tonicsiteshop.com/showcase/?_showcase_collection=add-on-templates

TONIC newsletter: https://tonicsiteshop.com/tonic-vip/

Right Track Audits : https://www.leahoconnell.com/righttrack

FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/photofuel/

Susannah Treadway: https://www.instagram.com/susannahrayephotography/

History of Pricing Part II : Growing a business and babies, my biggest game-changers, & where I've landed

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we’re diving back into my pricing journey and picking up where we left off in Part I. Over the past decade, I’ve experimented with session structures (IPS, virtual, print credits, collections - you name it), along with team fluctuation, revised brand vision, and big mindset shifts. From beginning to scale a team, to navigating 2020, to restructuring again - and navigating having three babies through all of it - I have finally found alignment in pricing and this episode is packed with lessons learned through it all.

You’ll hear about:

Why my pricing and created a bottleneck for growth and how I overcame confidence hurdles to change it
How major life changes pushed me to refine my process.
The systems and strategies I implemented to increase revenue while keeping my business lean and family-focused.
My recent shift to an all-inclusive model that’s simplified my workflow and delighted my clients.

Plus, I’ll share practical takeaways about adapting your pricing to align with your values, avoid client confusion, and create a more sustainable business.

If you’re a family photographer wondering how to navigate your own pricing evolution, this one’s for you.

// Links & how to connect //

Part 1: History of pricing Part 1

Big picture workbook : https://leahoconnell.com/bigpicture

Right track audits: https://leahoconnell.com/righttrack

1:1 mentoring : https://leahoconnell.com/mentoring

Find me on instagram @leahoconnell.photo

History of Pricing Part 1

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Here it is - THE PRICING TALK. Since I believe storytelling is one of the best avenues of learning, I'm broaching this with simply my experience - which, let's be honest, after 10+ years in business I've seen and tried just about everything. I'm talking —$50 sessions with CDs in plastic sleeves, IPS out of my tiny starter Hawaii apartment, every combination of session fee + collection model imaginable, and eventually moving to an all-inclusive digital model with print credit and a la carte sales. We're talking numbers, collection details, logistics - so much that this is just Part 1.

This episode is packed with real numbers, honest reflections, and plenty of takeaways for you to apply to your own business.Whether you’re just starting out or rethinking your pricing strategy, stick around to the end for tips on how to build a pricing model that actually works for you—your style, your life, and your goals.

Next week in part II we’ll dive into the past five years, where I made big shifts, grew my family + 2 more kids, and faced new challenges (hello, pandemic) and how pricing changes fit into the scheme of things when developing a life and a business you love.

// LINKS MENTIONED //

Episode 30: MY STORY - https://leahoconnell.com/ep-30-my-story-the-roots-experience-failures-inspirations-that-shaped-my-photography-business-paying-it-forward/

Homestyle Accelerator Group: https://www.leahoconnell.com/homestyle

The LEARN page with free resources - https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

Photo Fuel Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/photofuel/

Adopting a 'why not' mindset

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I'm kicking off a series on pricing and workflow with a short and sweet entry point around setting your mindset for this kind of work. Pricing tends to bring up a lot of fear and questioning and imposter syndrome and I believe this one question - why not? - is the key to getting out of your own way and staying dedicated to curiosity, trial and error, and building the business you're excited to run.

// LINKS MENTIONED //

The big picture workbook: https://www.leahoconnell.com/bigpicture

The Homestyle Accelerator: https://www.leahoconnell.com/homestyle

Free resources to learn from me: https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

// CONNECT WITH LEAH //

instagram: @leahoconnell.photo

What I'm working on in slow season : a peak into how I organize projects and make plans

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Happy new year and welcome to Q1 where it’s known in the family photography world as kindof a dead zone for bookings and shoots. For wedding photographers, this it usually the start of a busy season of bookings, but in our world I’ve noticed that no matter how I slice it, things tend to slow way down.

If you’ve listened to the last few episodes, you’ve probably noticed it’s been heavy on the reflections and questions so I thought maybe it was time to give you a few answers. Today I'm sharing a behind the scenes peak into my plans and projects for this month.

You'll get the zoomed out look at the tools I use to capture ideas, prioritize them, and choose what's most important next. Then we'll get into specifics with how I'll be spending my time this month and planning on utilizing the slow season as a family photographer well.

//

LINKS DISCUSSED //

Big picture workbook: https://leahoconnell.com/bigpicture

Episode 33: My 3-Part Process for EOY Goal Setting and Reflection (*free download for a personal meeting agenda)

Trello For Photographers course: https://leahoconnell.com/trello-for-photographers

How I use Trello in my business blog post: https://leahoconnell.com/how-i-use-trello-for-my-photography-business-2/

Kat Schmoyer - Trello for Beginners

https://katschmoyer.com/productivity-trello-beginners/

The Firefly Letters (my weekly newsletter)

Photographers only email list: https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

Homestyle accelerator waitlist: https://leahoconnell.com/homestyle

Episode 7 with Morgan Miles: Marketing, Privacy, and Social Media

Blog post: Do i need instagram for my photography business?

All my free resources to support you: https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

3 Methods of Journaling | Increase your Noticing Power and better your photography, business, and life

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Wait, this is a family photography podcast - why are you talking about journaling?

Writing and photography are so intertwined - they are both practices centered around noticing. I think the best thing you can do to become more tuned-in and capable of noticing is to record and reflect, so whether that’s with a camera or a pencil, the goal is the same.

Presence, depth, understanding, processing.

The purpose of journaling it to build a habit of noticing, capturing, and valuing the small, mundane moments that can become powerful stories. And stories are fodder for the final product - the transformation we offer others, the ways we connect with people, the way we live our lives.

In this episode, I'm sharing 3 different ways to journal so you can pick a method that suits you best and gives you a new tool to better your artistic toolbox.

// Links mentioned //

The Artists Way by Julia Cameron

My favorite notebook for bullet journaling

Video introducing the original form of Bullet Journaling

1:1 Mentoring

Storyworthy book

Storyworthy video intro

3 Big Picture Questions to Center your Goals for the New Year

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

As you’re taking some time over the next month to think big and set goals and get down to business on your business, I want propose a temporary pause to think past your gut reactions about what you “need” to do and how you’re going to “get back on the horse.”

Not every question is going to pull a thread for you, but the right questions just might lead you down a path of discovery that you’ve been waiting for.

These 3 questions I’m going to pose to you today come straight from my Big Picture Workbook - they’re 3 of the 10 questions that I use in that resource to help instigate discovery for your personal direction. Even if you’ve already downloaded and worked through that, I think these three in particular are worth revisiting regularly.

// Links mentioned //

Episode 33: EOY meeting

Times article about thinking in the shower

The Big Picture Workbook

1:1 Mentoring

Right Track Audits

Group Coaching (The Homestyle Accelerator) Waitlist

The 5 Most Influential Books for my Photography Business Journey

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

As we're approaching the end of the year, maybe you're looking for a good book to kick back within the new year. So today I'm sharing 5 of the most influential books that have shaped my business, art, and life. Most of them are not even classified as "business books," but somehow, they top the list of books that have shaped the way I do business, how I think, and how I aspire to grow as a person. All of those things influence how I show up with and for people, + the art I create and how I bring it into the world.

// Links mentioned //

Episode 21: 4 simple copy tips to elevate your website

Free resources - leahoconnell.com/learn

Blog posts with book recommendations:

Connect with Leah :
IG: @leahoconnell.photo
Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Free Photo Fuel FB group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/photofuel/

My 3 part process for holding an end-of-year meeting with myself | reflection, goal-setting, metrics and more

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

It’s time to start winding down your business from 2024 and whew, that’s an exciting time right? But before you can move onto goal setting and projects, this last month of the year is a beautiful time to take the pulse of your business. It's the imperative FIRST STEP to any kind of planning for the future.

Making time for this process of reflection and study of what the heck actually happened this year in your business - and it can also be really fun, too!

In this episode I’m sharing my process of holding an EOY meeting with myself. I'll take you behind the scenes of that process, the agenda, the questions i ask, and the metrics I tackle - so if you’ve never done this before you have a place to start and if you have you may find that you can pull some ideas from this to add in or tweak your current process.

// FREE pdf from the episode: GRAB THE MEETING OUTLINE HERE. //

Photographing your holidays and making personal "work" more fun

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

How do you find joy photographing your own holidays when your job is as a family photographer? How can you distinguish photographing in your regular life as fun, creative fuel vs obligation or "work?" (even if you love your work!) I hear a lot of guilt from photographers around not making photos at home “enough.” So in this episode, I want to dispel that and bring back the fun, ease the guilt, and just give a friendly reminder about the big picture.

Get ready for 5 tips for photographing and honoring your holidays with intention and joy.

// Timestamps //

00:00:22: Recognizing the blur of personal photography and photography 'work'

00:01:01: Addressing guilt with not doing "enough"

00:03:12: Reevaluating what makes a photo "worthy"

00:04:00: Disrupting visual influences

00:05:47: Tip 1 - Distinguish personal photography from work

00:06:42: Tip 2 - Name what matters

00:08:09: Tip 3 - Play with different gear

00:12:15: Tip 4 - Try a timed approach

00:13:53: Tip 5 - Be a memory-keeper with other mediums

// Links mentioned //

episode 12 with Rachel Larson Weaver

epsidoe 8: Resetting inspiration in your personal life

Photography and Play - Erin C. Garcia // photographs drawn from the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum, https://a.co/d/dBbD8tM

Jessica Todd Harper’s Here: https://a.co/d/eareauL

Sierra Madre Photography - website | instagram

Free resources to connect and learn with me: https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn

Your End of Year Investment Plan (+ an exercise to make smart choices)

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I'm sharing a run-down of the 4 categories of investments that serve as umbrellas for all the things you *could* purchase to support your business growth.

1. Software

2. Brand

3. Gear

4. Education

Each has several subcategories, too, so we'll walk through how to determine what will serve your business well AND I'll give you some recommendations to narrow down the scope.

Of course, I also want to share a little more about The Homestyle Accelerator as well because I am so excited about the potential of this program and our conversations to support you in a direct way with the growth of your art and business. Enrollment opens TODAY (Nov. 25 2004) so you can check out all the details and enroll (or get on the waitlist for next time) at https://leahoconnelll.com/homestyle

// Links mentioned //
Software:

Honeybook: https://www.honeybook.com
Sprout Studio: https://www.sproutstudio.com
Pic-time: https://www.pic-time.com
Pixieset: https://www.pixieset.com
Cloudspot: https://www.cloudspot.io
Kartra: https://www.kartra.com
Mailchimp: https://www.mailchimp.com
Flodesk: https://flodesk.com/c/O75MQU

Brand:

Tonic: https://www.tonic.site
Davy and Krista: https://daveyandkrista.com/home
Elizabeth McCravey: https://www.elizabethmccravey.com
Carly Schematic Design: https://schematicdesign.co/
Greenchair Stories: https://www.greenchairstories.com
Moo: https://www.moo.com

Gear:

Education: (check out the wonderful offers from these former guests on Photo Fuel)

Rachel Larsen Weaver: https://www.rachellarsenweaver.com
Morgan Williams: https://morganwilliamsphoto.com/
Sabrina Gebhardt: https://www.sabrinagebhardt.com

In person retreat/conference for 2025

The Reset Conference: https://www.theresetconference.com

The Homestyle Accelerator!

my 6 week small group coaching program - all the details here: https://www.leahoconnell.com/homestyle

My Story: the roots, experience, failures, & inspirations that shaped my photography business + paying it forward

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

As the person in your earbuds each week bringing you photography education and industry stories, I felt it was time to give you a little more context about my history and experience getting to this place.

I don’t have a fancy background or any official qualifications or fancy job history. My business has grown slowly and humbly - but maybe that’s exactly the kind of realness you need?

Failure after failure ultimately revealed something hidden and beautiful - a career that I love, that supports my family, and allows me to live in my purpose of creating light to the world.

Get ready for a touch of nostalgia as I share about my early inspiration and training in mall portrait studios along with -

the setbacks that left me jobless and wandering after college
the random people i met along the way who sparked the fire
how I taught myself alongside the mentors and courses I've learned from
the life circumstances that influence my style with both lifestyle and documentary approaches
how I've grown my business over the course of having 3 babies
the plateaus and breakthroughs I've experienced in my work
what accountability and feedback has done for my business and why I believe it's the true secret sauce to success

If you're interested in joining the Homestyle Accelerator small group coaching program for family photographers with a focus on in-home photography and simplified, warm businesses - get on the waitlist at https://leahoconnell.com/homestyle

Enrollment opens Nov. 25 through 29 or until spots are filled!

// Other resources mentioned //

Emily lucarez course: https://www.creativelive.com/class/lifestyle-family-photography-emily-lucarz

Kirstin lewis class on Creativelive: https://www.creativelive.com/class/family-photography-creating-a-successful-business-kirsten-lewis

Brooke shultz: https://brookebschultz.com/love-soaked

Rachel Larsen Weaver : https://www.rachellarsenweaver.com/

Discovering Your Strengths, Why Client Love Isn’t Enough, and the Impact of Support with Lydia Fine

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

You likely have passion and excitement to create beautiful photos, but have you ever found yourself working behind the computer and thinking what the heck am I doing?

Am I even doing the right thing? Am I doing the things that are actually going to help? Am I completely wasting my time?

Today's guest is Lydia Fine, and our conversation circles around this idea of imposter syndrome with a sprinkle of support and the value of education and mentorship. Lydia is actually a student of mine and we've worked together in mentoring several times, so she shares a little bit about that experience and the unique gap that one-to-one mentoring filled for her in her personal and professional growth.

Lydia grew up as a farm girl, she earned a marketing degree and an MBA, and she has two kiddos with her husband. She runs Apollo and Ivy Photography focused on families, seniors and newborns.

// Topics we discuss //

The difference between affirmation in the formal workplace vs entrepreneurship
How affirmation and lack thereof affects us (and clients loving their photos isn’t the same thing!)
The reasons Lydia reached out to me for coaching and how it was the missing link in her growth
Different types of education she recommends looking to for specific problems
The role of coaching in confidence building through risk assessment
The questions that helped Lydia uncover her strengths
When it’s time to invest in one to one or group coaching and when you’re better served with things like courses
The value of slow growth
How to choose the right coach for you

// CONNECT WITH LYDIA //

Website: www.apolloandivy.com

Instagram: @lydia_apolloandivy

Lydia's freebies:

How to get clients with google reviews: https://apolloandivy.myflodesk.com/google-reviews

The 3 client emails you're not sending yet: https://apolloandivy.myflodesk.com/3-emails

Instagram Reel Series: Google Business Profile Tips for Photographers: https://instagram.com/lydia_apolloandivy

// CONNECT WITH LEAH //

Homestyle Accelerator Group Coaching : https://leahoconnell.com/group

Leah's website: https://leahoconnell.com

Leah on Instagram: @leahoconnell_photo

4 ways to build momentum when you’re not busy in the fall

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Whether you're winding down your fall season or you're still in the thick of the season, not *everyone* experiences that "busy fall" photographers like to talk about. Maybe you're reflecting on what this fall looked like for you and instead of being filled with clients sessions, it was kind of stale.

Maybe you weren't as busy this fall as you usually are, or you're just getting started and you've never had a busy fall yet.

Maybe you've moved to a new city, or you're on maternity leave, or just going through a lull - but when you go to Instagram and you see everyone doing sessions and sharing fall work and editing cues and whatever, it can be discouraging. SO in this episode I'm sharing four things that you can do to capitalize on the fall energy and build momentum, even when your work que is slow.

Through personal stories and advice, we'll create excitement around the slower seasons to use them well with the big picture in mind.

// LINKS DISCUSSED //

Ultimate list of freebies : https://leahoconnell.com/learn

The Firefly Letters: https://leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Episode 5: 6 shifts that helped me grow my photography business

Photography Business Fears and Horror Stories 🫢

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Ever had a heart-stopping moment when you realize your camera is dangling too close to the ocean or you check your camera back 100 times on the way to a session because you irrationally think you forgot all your gear?

Or show up to the wrong house?

Or loose images from a session?

As a family photographer with over 15 years of experience, I've had my share of irrational fears and horrifying experiences, too. In this episode, I'm candidly sharing not just my personal stories of mishaps and embarrassing moments, but the invaluable lessons learned from these experiences.

This spooky season, let's acknowledge that fear is an inherent part of our creative journey and so is facing that sometimes those fears come true. Can you show yourself you'll be alright, even if you mess up? This episode is a humorous twist on the ideas that keep us up at night, and hopefully will lead all of us into feeling a little less alone.

// connect with Leah //

Photo Fuel facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/photofuel/

https://www.leahoconnell.com/learn (free resources to help you grow)

https://www.leahoconnell.com/mentoring (1:1 mentoring)

https://www.leahoconnell.com/group (group coaching + course interest list)

Seasons of Business, Marketing with Intention, & Choosing Education Wisely with Sabrina Gebhardt

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Sabrina Gebhardt is a long time photographer who’s made it her mission to coach family photographers through bettering themselves and building thriving photography businesses. Sabrina is doing all kinds of work in the education space for photographers right now, but she is also photographing families and has been for 14 years. In this episode, we talk about

-the ebb and flow of business and balance

-the art of hustling in a healthy way and keeping that big picture view of the whole year

- the pitfalls of a scarcity mindset during slower seasons

- and continuing education and choosing the container and coach wisely to suit your needs

Sabrina is an expert on this because she’s not only participated in all the types of education herself, but she now has created and runs opportunities from free guides, to online courses, to 1:1 mentoring, to small group support, and of course the Root to Rise Retreat and Mastermind.

// connect with Sabrina //

Website: https://www.sabrinagebhardt.com

Instagram: @sabrinagebhardtphotography

// connect with Leah //

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Instagram: @leahoconnell.photo

The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

1:1 Mentoring: https://www.leahoconnell.com/mentoring

Beyond the discounts : Navigating Black Friday as a Family Photographer

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 06:14:00 -0400

Can Black Friday be about more than just superficial discounts?

In today's episode, I'm talking through the complexities of Black Friday sales, especially for family photographers looking to maintain their artistic integrity and profitability. Rather than crafting a sale for your services, I want to propose some more creative thinking about how you might use this time of increased buyer attention to set yourself apart in a positive and productive way with 4 specific ideas to get you going (or walk away!).

We'll challenge the idea that slashing prices is the only way to engage customers and explore how taking cues from Trader Joe's stable pricing approach might be the game-changer your business needs.

// Join our private Facebook group to continue this engaging conversation and prepare for a successful, value-driven black Friday! //

Links:

Episode 12: Newsletters - what I learned from 1 year of The Firefly Letters

1:1 Mentoring : leahoconnell.com/mentoring

Course + group coaching wait list : leahoconnell.com/group

Free download: Gift certificate template // https://www.leahoconnell.com/gifts

Advertising print materials: moo.com

Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/photofuel/

A Pre-Shoot Pep Talk / Meditation (Recenter yourself for your best work)

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This episode is airing originally in the fall, and because this podcast is specifically for family photographers, I’m assuming a lot of you are in your busiest part of the year. You’re travelling to a lot of shoots. Even if you don’t have a ton of work right now, every time you do go to a shoot, it feels especially important. If you are finding yourself in the dead center of tons of editing or in the car going back and forth to client’s homes, I want this episode to serve as a tool to recenter.

Whenever you’re feeling swirly or like you’re running out the door from your own personal whirlwind and you just need something to help plug you back into your purpose, I hope you’ll play (or replay!) this episode and discover peace and potential that will rev you up to create a phenomenal experience for the families who’ve hired you.

// connect with Leah //

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Instagram: @leahoconnell.photo

Waitlist for the mastermind + retreat: https://www.leahoconnell.com/group

The Big Picture Workbook Freebie: https://www.leahoconnll.com/bigpicture

Why (and how) I Changed My Business Name

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Have you ever known you needed to make a change for your business but felt scared about what it would cost you?

Have you ever resisted taking risks or making investments or choices that you knew deep down were good choices but felt scary?

That’s the backstory of this episode - why I knew it was time to change my business name and how I went about making the shift after 11 years of operating and creating content on the internet under a different name.

The history of my longstanding previous name (Firefly Photography)
The turning point for feeling the nudge to change it
Making business personal on purpose
Simplifying branding by returning to the basics
Llogistics about changing a name and implications for things like SEO

// Links discussed //

Group Coaching : leahoconnell.com/group

Free downloads: leahoconnell.com/learn

Fb group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/photofuel/

Get Discovered and Grow your Business in a New Place Using SEO with Melissa Arlena

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

SEO expert Melissa Arlena is on the show today with her experience and best practices for moving your photography business to a new city, establishing brand presence online with SEO, and ways you can set yourself up for success.

We talk about things like:

How she excels and books as a photographer with a specific, repeatable look
Tips to transition your business between states
Tweaks to your keyword targeting
Changes to how google reads keyword differences
How do do keyword research and choose the best ones to get you “found”
Tips for how to understand what your target clients are looking for as topic starters for blog content
The purpose of local-specific blog posts for seo and client interest
Studying and understanding analytics
How long you can expect SEO work to take when moving to a new city
How we can utilize AI to better utilize our time and tools
The future of search behavior

This is a meaty episode - get your pens ready!

// Connect with Melissa: //

Website: https://pictureperfectrankings.com/

SEO facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pictureperfectrankings

On instagram: @pictureperfectrankings

// Connect with Leah //

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Instagram: @leahoconnell.photo

The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

4 Simple Copy Tips to Elevate your Family Photography Website

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Something that always comes up in the audits I do, in any mentoring call I’ve done in the last 2 years, and in conversations all the time with photographers is COPY - specifically, for your family photography website. In this episode, I have four simple copy tips for your family photography website that will take under an hour to tweak. Even though they're simple, they make such a huge difference in your ability to attract and hold the attention of your dream clients and move through your customer journey and into that contact form.

We talk about things like:

The ‘fluff test’
What you “about” page is really for
How to use the magic combination of personal vision, your favorite images, and customer feedback to write your website
Better calls to action
Logistic and design quick tips to support your copy and make sure people actually read it

// Links discussed //

Right track audits: https://www.leahoconnell.com/righttrack
Episode 10 - Website Work: https://leahoconnell.com/ep-10-website-work/
Episode 20- 6 ways to Nurture your Family Photography Clients https://leahoconnell.com/ep-20-6-ways-to-nurture-your-family-photography-clients/
The Big-Picture Workbook: https://www.leahoconnell.com/bigpicture

6 Unique Ways to Nurture Your Family Photography Clients

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

You may have heard the concept that keeping a client is always easier than booking a new one - and there's a reason for that! Nurturing your existing family photography clients means making them feel seen and heard beyond the session itself. When you can find unexpected or particularly thoughtful ways to do that, you capitalize on the opportunity to not just build relationship, but to foster relationship that will continue to snowball.

The statistics from current research about nurturing lead generation and conversion are pretty staggering. This is a piece that can't be ignored, but nurturing your family photography clients is actually a really fun way to market and a beautiful way to run a business.

In this episode, I'm sharing 6 things I've done or currently do to nurture family clients and ways you can integrate these or similar ideas into your client nurturing strategy, too - whether you have 2 or 200 of them!

// Links mentioned //

Moo: (postcards for birthdays) https://www.moo.com

Sprout Studio: (client galleries) https://www.trysproutstudio.com/?via=leah
Photo Fuel Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/photofuel/

Flodesk: https://flodesk.com/c/O75MQU

The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Free Audio Training on Posing tips for endless variety (and access to my photographer specific email list) - https://www.leahoconnell.com/posing

Interest list for group coaching + retreat: https://www.leahoconnell.com/group

Right track audits : https://www.leahoconnell.com/righttrack

Article on Lead and Client Nurturing Statistics

Back to School Reboot | Business Q&A

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

I asked my private facebook community what's got them stuck in business and what problems they're mulling through right now and the responses were so wide. Sometimes just talking through a problem and getting new perspective is the push we need to reimagine and tackle it so in this episode, I'm addressing 4 questions from the group with my take. Sometimes my opinions are counter-cultural to industry standard, but I'm giving it to you straight.

We're talking about issues like:

How to develop a newsletter people want to read
Addressing a crisis of style (documentary vs lifestyle, how to get people to book a different style, etc.)
How to integrate portfolio building into existing sessions
Social media’s role in marketing as a new photographer and how to book and/or grow without it
Whether to include pricing on your website or not

... and all kinds of other nuggets along the way.

If you want to be a part of the FB community and conversations like this along with tons of free video content and training, come join us!

// Links //

Ep 12: What I learned from 1 year of the Firefly Letters

Ep 5 : 6 shifts that helped me grow my family photography business

Ep: 7: Marketing, Privacy, and Social Media with Morgan Miles

My newsletter: The Firefly Letters

Newsletter for photographers - leahoconnell.com/posing or leahoconnell.com/walkthrough

Photo Fuel Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/photofuel/

Group Coaching and Retreat Interest List: https://www.leahoconnell.com/group

// Thank you to the photographers who contributed questions for this episode! //

Susannah Raye Photography

Kari of Mack, Micah, and Olly Photography

Debbie Camba Photography

Sadie Peterson Photography

The benefits of being an introverted photographer, switching careers, shooting multiple genres, and more with Caitlin Alohilani Photography

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Our guest today is Caitlin of Caitlin Alohilani Photography. Caitlin is a family, wedding, and branding photographer based in Los Angeles, California. She was born and raised on the island of Oahu in Hawai’i, and credits much of her photographic eye, approach, and values to her upbringing in the islands and the eternal “aloha spirit.”

In this episode touch on:

How she made the leap to full time photography out of her OT career
How her fearlessness and enthusiasm for the craft early on was a superpower
The ways our alternate work paths play into our art and thinking about how broad skills assist this niche career
The connection between a therapeutic relationship and the work we do as photographers in connecting with our clients
The differences and strengths of introverts as photographers and business owners
How intuition and emotionally regulating people plays a nuanced role in the success of a shoot
The blending of a brand through multiple genres
What Caitlin learned about business and marketing for photography from her own recent wedding /

We also talk about the strengths of being an introvert and she gives some really incredible insight into what it’s like to grow a personal brand as an introverted personality

Caitlin recently got married and at the end, she shares some really helpful tips about what she learned from being on the other side of that experience and her insights are things that resonate with all of us!

// Connect with Caitlin //

https://www.caitlinalohilani.com

https://www.instagram.com/caitlinalohilaniphoto

https://www.instagram.com/caitlinalohilanifamilies

// Links discussed //

Do Less - Kate Northrup

Oura Ring

3 Tips for Endless Posing Variety in Family Sessions

Gallery Walkthrough video

Group Coaching waitlist

4 Tips for How to Shoot in Any Home (In-Home Photography Series Part 3)

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

I asked in a group once what was everyone’s favorite thing about in-home sessions and someone responded with something like - I know this is shallow, but I only like them if they’re a well decorated home, have interesting architecture, or have great light - otherwise not so much.

The truth is that even when you’re showing your best and favorite work, you may get hired by people who you don’t vibe with. They might have homes that are not your "aesthetic" or are "boring" or "tough." So what happens then? How do you still given them the same vibes that your brand is known for, the same quality images, no matter what?

In this episode, I’m sharing 4 tips to take with you on your in-home sessions to create inspiration and feel inspired even in an uninspiring space.

We touch on:

Why it’s important to be able to shoot in diverse environments, even when they’re not your favorite.
How to find the golden nuggets
Ideas for using the outdoors spaces you have available at home
How to creativity utilize your angles

/// Links mentioned in this episode ///

Images from the home renovation session : https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo/

Episode with Rachel Larsen Weaver

Mentoring with Leah: https://www.leahoconnell.com/mentoring

Group Coaching Info and Wait list: https://www.leahoconnell.com/group

What's in my bag (In Home Photography Series Part 2)

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 05:13:00 -0400

In part two of the In Home Photography Series, I'm getting more technical and sharing exactly the gear (and tools!) I use for running my lifestyle family photography business.

Buckle up for a light, fun episode of recommendations and go behind-the-scenes of what it takes to run my business.

/// Links Mentioned ///

Gear:

Software:

Sprout Studio - CRM // 20% off first year
Trello - project + weekly/monthly planning tool
- Blog post about how I use trello
- Mini Trello course
- Flodesk get 50% off your first year
  - The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter
  - Freebie on posing for photographers list:
  - Freebie with gallery walkthrough video for photographers list

Wave - bookkeeping

Backblaze - cloud backup
Adobe - Lightroom + Photoshop for culling + editing
Pixellu/Smartslides (starter plan)- creating client slideshows
Stripe - payment processing
Showit - website + blog // get a month free

Connect with Leah:

instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

education: Https://www.leahoconnell.com/education

If you're nervous about light, try this! (In-Home Photography Series Part 1)

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

We're kicking off a series all about in-home family photography and this week, it's all about the one little trick I do that's made all the different with getting more comfortable in a variety of homes.

If you've been nervous about lighting in home settings or the inability to location scout - this one's for you!

Links mentioned:

Blog post : "tips for family photos with your dog" - https://leahoconnell.com/tips-for-family-photos-with-your-dog/

BTS of a full gallery walkthrough - https://leahoconnell.com/walkthrough

In-Person Mentoring Sessions: https://www.leahoconnell.com/mentoring

Group Coaching Program Waitlist: https://www.leahoconnell.com/group

///

We're going weekly! (00:00:00)

Backstory about in-home family photography and finding your style (00:01:02)
Leah shares an experience from a photography retreat, contrasting a beautiful home with a cluttered, colorful one.

Finding Inspiration in Different Environments (00:02:03)
Discusses how different spaces can inspire photographers and the importance of entering environments with reverence.

Addressing Nervousness About Lighting (00:03:01)
Leah identifies common fears photographers face regarding lighting in unfamiliar home settings.

Preparation leads to Confidence (00:04:00)
Stresses the importance of preparation and confidence to combat nerves during in-home shoots.

Problem-Solving in to take this further (00:05:13)

Since you can't do location scouting in a home, what can you do instead? (00:06:11)
Discusses the variability of shooting locations and how preparation can help photographers feel more in control.

The Two Gives and an Ask Method (00:07:06)

The Secret Trick (00:08:09)

Addressing Challenges and Troubleshooting During Shoots (00:11:01)
Discusses the unpredictability of shooting conditions and how to adapt to unexpected challenges.

Building Rapport with Clients (00:13:59)
Emphasizes the importance of relatable communication and breaking down social barriers with clients.

Mentoring and Coaching Programs (00:15:45)
Details about Leah's in-person mentoring sessions and a future group coaching program for photographers.

Why I Don't Do Fall Minis (+ what works for me instead)

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 06:20:24 -0400

Right about now, many of you in the family photography world are probably starting to think about planning and marketing for your fall mini sessions. But do you *have* do them??

I am a family photographer exclusively and I do not offer fall mini sessions. Actually I don’t offer mini sessions at all.

If you feel stuck hating fall mini sessions because you think you *have* to offer them or need the quick cash, consider this alternative perspective.

Mini sessions can be a great way to get started, get practice, and develop your skills. But at a certain point, you can decide if it's something that's really aligned with your business goals... or not.

That's what we're digging into today - My 3 main arguments against doing fall mini sessions and a few ideas for how to supplement your business income or calendar instead.

Links mentioned:

QT albums: get 20% off your first order with code FUEL20 or a free studio sample - just reach out and mention Photo Fuel and they’ll get you hooked up with your album sample

The Big Picture Workbook: https://www.leahoconnell.com/bigpicture

Mentoring with Leah : https://leahoconnell.com/mentoring

Pursuing a love of art, business, and people with Rachel Larsen Weaver

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 05:21:14 -0400

What a treat in today's episode - we have the legend Rachel Larsen Weaver with us.

Rachel is an artist-educator and photographer joyfully living on the Maryland beaches of the Chesapeake Bay. A mother to five and creator of moments, her enthusiasm for details and self-love are infectious, infusing creative sessions with a buoyant reverence for the simplest pleasures. Her portfolio and practice is fat-affirming, mindful, and genuine, focusing on the life and light of clients. Co-founder of NOW, NOW School, and creator of #FindingMyselfInPortraits and the original Long Form Sessions, Rachel travels the country documenting mothers, bodies, and details.

In this episode we cover topics like:

Learning from the things that don’t work
How to craft your sweet spot offers by listening to what makes you unique
The foundations of Rachel’s signature long-form sessions
How newsletters support your offers more just than sales
Rachel’s concept of “all work is personal”
Why it’s important to have variety with your influences
Contentment and growth
Seeing people with a loving gaze
How seeking presence in your daily life supports your art
The courage of curation

WOW - it's a packed one!

// connect with Leah //

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Instagram: @leahoconnell_photo

The Big Picture Workbook: https://www.leahoconnell.com/bigpicture

The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/education

// connect with Rachel //

Website: www.rachellarsenweaver.com

Instagram: @rachel.larsen.weaver

Rachel's 4x4 - https://www.rachellarsenweaver.com/the-4-x4

Rachel's long-form sessions: https://www.rachellarsenweaver.com/longform

Newsletters : What I learned from One Year of The Firefly Letters

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 11:44:00 -0400

It’s pretty well understood that newsletters are a great form of marketing - anyone who’s had success with it will tell you that it is, but until you find your voice and your magic sauce with creating one, you’re likely to feel some dread around starting one, writing consistent emails, and generally feel a lot of resistance. Like many things in business marketing, it can bring thoughts of “am I being annoying?” or “is anyone even reading this?” or “what’s the point.” So if you’ve felt like this around newsletters at any point, this episode is for you.

In June I reached a personal goal of sending a newsletter every week for one year and through that process of committing to a specific form of consistent marketing, I learned so much and today I want to share some of that with you - we’re going to address 7 big takeaways I’ve gathered from that challenge.

// Try out Flodesk at 50% off with the code: https://flodesk.com/c/O75MQU

// Connect with Leah //

Join the Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo

The Big Picture Workbook: https://www.leahoconnell.com/bigpicture

Discovering what you were created to create with Morgan Williams

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 05:21:06 -0400

Developing a family photography business is rarely a straight path. Like most careers, it’s likely that there are some steps that are calculated and some that take us completely by surprise. That’s what happened to my guest on the show today, the lovely Morgan Williams, based out of Raleigh, North Carolina.

She focusses on in-home photography with families and newborns and teaches other photographers how to create the work they were created to create, but before she could do that for others, she had to figure out how to do it for herself.

In this conversation we talk about how and why she made the switch from almost exclusively photographing weddings to exclusively photographing families and newborns.

We also dive into what it’s like to build a business while raising babies and I believe that every time an artist that gets a little more real with what that looks like in their own story, the more we all collectively sigh a little relief in camaraderie knowing we are not alone.

Links discussed:

Preserving everyday magic: in-home family photography group coaching program

Flourish retreat and mastermind (a 6 month mastermind designed to show you how to discover your unique creative purpose and flourish in all areas of your life!)

Lit up course (in-home lighting course)

Family posing guide(a guide to creating authentic family imagery)

// Connect with Morgan //

Website: morganwilliamsphoto.com

Instagram: instagram.com/morganwilliamsphoto

Morgan's podcast: Life in Full Frame

// Connect with Leah / /

Website: www.leahoconnell.com

Newsletter / The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Private FB group for photographers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyphotogs.behindthescenes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo/

Email: leah@lofirefly.com

Website Work

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

If you have “work on my website” on your to-do list for this quarter or this year, today's Photo Fuel is on point for you.

Whether you’re looking to improve it, working with a designer, using a template, or DIY-ing the whole darn thing, in this episode we’re talking through 2 major mistakes I see photographers (cough, me too!) make when tackling this project and what to do instead to prep yourself for an enjoyable and effective website glow-up.

// Links Mentioned in this episode //

Right-track audits: https://www.leahoconnell.com/righttrack

Showit code for 1 month free: https://account.showit.com/r/firefly // or code firefly at checkout

The Big-picture workbook: https://www.leahoconnell.com/bigpicture

// connect with Leah //

Website: www.leahoconnell.com

Newsletter / The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Private FB group for photographers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyphotogs.behindthescenes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo/

Email: leah@lofirefly.com

Connecting with clients by owning your story with Mary Catherine Wickman

Mon, 27 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

When DC photographer Mary Catherine Wickman posted on instagram about her fears around being 35 and a family photographer without kids, her followers rallied around her in support, encouragement, and their own stories of relatability. In this episode, we talk about that caption - why she shared it, what happened, and what she (and all of us) can learn from it.

Read the post here: https://www.instagram.com/p/C3AsIgNOcUj/

We also touch on:

The way our vulnerability helps us connect in deeper ways with out clients and other photographers
The “age ceiling” in family photography and how we’re finding it’s a complete myth
The sacrifices of going from part time to full time
What it’s like to look around at what you’ve built and say ‘this is good.’
The value in participating in non-photography-related creative mediums

// CONNECT //

Mary Catherine Wickman : www.marycatherinephotography.com | Instagram: @marycatherinephoto

Leah O'Connell:

Website: www.leahoconnell.com

Newsletter / The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Private FB group for photographers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyphotogs.behindthescenes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo/

Email: leah@lofirefly.com

The Big picture workbook: https://lofirefly.com/bigpicture

Resetting inspiration in your personal life (when you don't feel like shooting)

Mon, 13 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

What do you do when you're being hired to make family photos, but you don't feel like picking up a camera? When you don't feel inspired by making photos of your own family? When you feel tired or bored with life but you're preaching about joy in little moments and soaking up the precious people you love? The natural burnout of parenthood and relationship has a unique way of seeping into our work as family photographers because the two are so closely intertwined.

In this episode, I’m going to share 3 things I practice to get re-inspired by my own life - and they have nothing to do with taking pictures.

Ironically, they often lead to an ignited passion for photographing again and a realignment in my personal life with my contentment, delight, and art that spills over into my work.

+ ((17:40)) 6 practical experiments *with* your camera that you can try to introduce play and get awake to your love for photographer again.

// Links and sources mentioned //

Wildly Creative Life Podcast // When you don’t feel like creating anything:

Wildly Creative Life Podcast // Can’t find any motivation: Try this instead

Book Rec: Do less: A revolutionary approach to managing time and energy for ambitious women

Rachel Larsen Weaver’s self portrait guide

Artifact uprising: 15% off orders with code FIREFLYPHOTO15

QT Albums: 20% off first order with code FUEL20

The big picture workbook: https://fireflyphotography.myflodesk.com/bigpicture

// Connect with Leah // •

Website: www.leahoconnell.com

Newsletter / The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Private FB group for photographers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyphotogs.behindthescenes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo/

Email: leah@lofirefly.com

Marketing, Privacy, and Social Media with Morgan Miles

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Todays episode features a must-listen conversation for every family photographer! Morgan Miles is my guest and not only is she an incredibly talented family photographer, she is a full time marketing professor and studies consumer psychology at San Diego State University where she’s been teaching for over a decade. She has incredible insight into the growing trends of marketing in general and how it uniquely applies - at one point she brings up how she can’t think of another career that has the same marketing challenges as family photographers, and one of the reasons for that is privacy.

Topics we touch on:

Predictions about the future of marketing with client images
How AI plays a role in safety concerns
The shift with clients requesting privacy on social media
Naming your own values and boundaries around sharing personal work and your own family online as part of your marketing
Managing consent and client expectations or request for privacy
Safety tips for respecting our clients and kids
Ideas for sharing personal work if social media isn’t something you want to engage in at all
Defining your personal and brand voice with authenticity
The power of education to accelerate your growth

// NOTES + LINKS REFERENCED //

Blog post - "Do I need instagram for my photography business?"

Click photo mini classes -

Pew Research Article on privacy:

SAS survey:

Enzuzo article on privacy statistics

Morgan’s bio:

Morgan is a mom to two, a marketing professor, and a lifestyle family photographer based in sunny San Diego, CA. She studied art and photography in college but didn't pick up a camera again until she was pregnant with her first child and has now been in business for four years. She is fascinated by the complexity of the parenthood journey and seeks to capture it in a way that feels both beautiful and authentic.

// Connect with Morgan //

Website: https://www.morganmilesstudio.com
INstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morganmilesstudio/

// Connect with Leah //

The Firefly Letters - https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter
Big picture workbook (free) : https://fireflyphotography.myflodesk.com/bigpicture
Website: www.leahoconnell.com

Newsletter / The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Private FB group for photographers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyphotogs.behindthescenes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo/

Email: leah@lofirefly.com

The key ingredient to your success

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 10:21:34 -0400

85% of photographers quit within the first 2 years and a lot of those people don’t actually want to quit. I believe there’s one key factor that you’ve gotta have to succeed as a family photographer and it's totally possible or everyone. But it can't be taught and you can’t buy it and you can't make it... yet it’s the real bones behind your success in this field.

In this episode we'll touch on comparison, the real reason why we share our work, and how to build something you're actually proud of.

// NOTES //

Episode 5 - 6 shifts that helped me grow my photography business : https://shorturl.at/bqQSX

The Firefly Letters - https://www.lofirefly.com/newsletter

Lessons in Chemistry TV series - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13911628/

Big picture workbook (free) : https://fireflyphotography.myflodesk.com/bigpicture

// CONNECT WITH LEAH //

Website: www.leahoconnell.com

Newsletter / The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Private FB group for photographers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyphotogs.behindthescenes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo/

Email: leah@lofirefly.com

6 shifts that helped me grow my family photography business

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400

A lot of times, when people share their business origin stories, we get the beginning hardship and grind then fastforward to the end when it all worked out and they have a happy healthy business. But there's a lot of the story that gets skipped and it's important to learn from both the hurdles and the shifts that helped that growth along the way.

In this episode, I'll share the 6 major shifts that have made an impact in the growth of my family photography business over the last decade. Walk away with fresh ideas for an open mindset and avenues that could support and accelerate your ability to love what you do and how you do it.

The Big Picture Workbook (10 prompts for better clarity and direction in your business) https://fireflyphotography.myflodesk.com/bigpicture

Other things mentioned in this episode:

Sprout Studio (get 20% your plan with this link): https://www.trysproutstudio.com/?via=leah

Upwork: https://www.upwork.com/

The firefly letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

My school photography page: https://www.leahoconnell.com/schools

Episode 1 : Uncover your mission and values as a family photographer

Connect with Leah:

Website: www.leahoconnell.com

Newsletter / The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Private FB group for photographers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyphotogs.behindthescenes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo/

Email: leah@lofirefly.com

Betting on yourself

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

I recently got a question in my private facebook group about investing in your family photography business that I thought was worth pulling apart a little -

"How do you know what to invest in and if you can/should? Might be a question for a CPA but haven’t gotten to that level quite yet…Especially for newbies who aren't making a profit yet, investment in business is scary and a bit guilty feeling...at least for me"

This episode will talk about how "spend money to make money" doesn't quite cover the elephant in the room when it comes to investing as solo-preneurs. Look for insights on:

-what to invest in aka types of education like online vs in-person, gear and tools, etc.

-when to invest

-how to gain confidence when investing

-the real cost of not investing in your business if you're serious about it.

Connect with Leah:

Website: www.leahoconnell.com

Newsletter / The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Private FB group for photographers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyphotogs.behindthescenes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo/

Email: leah@lofirefly.com

The Senses Checklist

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

As a family photographer, it’s pretty common to have a standard checklist running through our heads of the “must-have shots.” It might be something - each parent with each kid, kids together, individuals, etc...

Those baseline must-haves are important, but how do we go deeper? I'm proposing a part 2 to the basic session checklists as a way to take it up a notch. If you're bored with the same old shots or are looking for a way to feel more creative while you're in a session, this is for you!

Mentioned in this episode:

Helen Keller's article in the Hong Kong Standard: https://shorturl.at/BQZ37

Connect with Leah:

Website: www.leahoconnell.com

Newsletter / The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Private FB group for photographers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyphotogs.behindthescenes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo/

Email: leah@lofirefly.com

Uncover your mission and values as a family photographer

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

What's the point? Why do you want to photograph families? What is the driving factor keeping you in this work? What keeps you coming back when it's hard and you want to quit?

In this episode, we'll talk about

- why it's important to define your values

- how it can help you influence decision-making

- a helpful exercise to drill down into what really matters and how you can use that knowledge to fuel more *fun* and excitement in all areas of your business

Mentioned in this episode:

Origins of The 5 Whys Concept: https://www.mindtools.com/a3mi00v/5-whys

The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Mentoring with Leah : https://www.leahoconnell.com/education

Connect with Leah:

Website: https://www.leahoconnell.com

IG: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo/

Private FB group for family photographers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyphotogs.behindthescenes/

Welcome to Photo Fuel - Trailer

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 11:27:46 -0400

Welcome to Photo Fuel! This podcast is specifically crafted around the unique business and creative needs of family photographers who want to grow businesses that are both inspiring and profitable.

Check out some of the topics we'll be covering and the heart behind this podcast through the trailer and subscribe to be notified of new episodes when the drop!

Connect with Leah:

Website: www.leahoconnell.com

Newsletter / The Firefly Letters: https://www.leahoconnell.com/newsletter

Private FB group for photographers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/familyphotogs.behindthescenes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leahoconnell.photo/

Email: leah@lofirefly.com

Photo Fuel | The Vision, Art, and Business of Family Photography

The benefits (and numbers) behind adding school photography to your business

Introduction to Outdoor School Photography (+ Photo Chalk enters the chat)

The Summer Reflection: 5 Questions for Quarterly Review and Prep

Ditching Duct Tape Systems in Favor of Connection and Peace with Erin Wissig

The 'Why Not' Mindset (REPLAY)

A Fall Pep Talk for Family Photographers (REPLAY)

REPLAY | Why I don't offer fall mini sessions

Putting in the website work to get found online with Jamie Bugbee

Falling for Lifestyle, Session Prep, and Playing the SEO Long Game with Becca Lueck

Guide to In-Home Family Photography Part 4 - 8 Tips for What to Do When You're Stuck

Guide to In-Home Family Photography Part 3: Story Filters

Guide to In-Home Family Sessions Part 2: The First 10 Minutes

Guide to In-Home Family Sessions Part 1: The Walkthrough Video

What I Learned From Hosting a Photography Retreat and Mastermind

Thoughtful growth & the power of mentoring with Lydia Fine

Stop Posing, Start Playing

Why I Started a Retreat for Family Photographers—The Photo Fuel Retreat & Mastermind

How to Break Through a Growth Plateau in Your Photography Business

Kids Photography Camps, School Photos, and Creative Offers to Support Your Business with Rebecca Hunnicutt

Analog Marketing for Family Photographers

Your Prices Aren’t the Problem (It’s Just January)

One Step at a Time: Curiosity, Generosity, and the Creative Life with Dave Herring of VeryGood Co.

Micro Pivots - You don't need to burn it all down

From Families to Brands | How Nicole Hodgson Reinvented Her Photography Business

My 2025 Photography Business Tech Stack | The Big 4

Messy Action, The Artful Pivot, and Creating from the Inside Out with Brooke Schultz

What Even *Is* a Mastermind?! Inside the Photo Fuel Retreat for Family Photographers

Back To School Ask Me Anything | Family photography, school photos, burnout, submissions + more

The Missing Link to Your Photography Marketing with Michelle Franzetti

Set the Table: how to stop expecting your clients to perform for you and make anyone feel welcome

Strategic, Seasonal Booking and Creative Evolution in Family Photography with Lyndsay McNiff

The Four Fall Photography Pitfalls & How to Avoid them, + A Pre-Fall Peptalk

Staying Open to Growth, Redefining Risk, and Betting on Yourself with Annemie Tonken

Spring Checkpoint (+ a podcast update)

Help clients decide what to wear (without being a stylist or stocking a client closet).

Extended Family Sessions: My Approach & Tips for Success

Building a Bold Brand & Exceptional Client Experience with Christine Dammann

One Year of Photo Fuel: A Candid Q&A on Business, Conferences, Balance, Social Media, and more

Why I switched to Honeybook : takeaways from my migration + how it's going so far

The Booking Call Debate: Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

The 4 Stages of a Connection-Driven Client Experience

Crafting a Client Experience That Works No Matter Where You Are with Natasha Sewell

3 times family photographers should shoot for free (+ a case for generosity)

What every family photographer needs to know about "conveying value"

History of Pricing Part II : Growing a business and babies, my biggest game-changers, & where I've landed

History of Pricing Part 1

Adopting a 'why not' mindset

What I'm working on in slow season : a peak into how I organize projects and make plans

3 Methods of Journaling | Increase your Noticing Power and better your photography, business, and life

3 Big Picture Questions to Center your Goals for the New Year

The 5 Most Influential Books for my Photography Business Journey

My 3 part process for holding an end-of-year meeting with myself | reflection, goal-setting, metrics and more

Photographing your holidays and making personal "work" more fun

Your End of Year Investment Plan (+ an exercise to make smart choices)

My Story: the roots, experience, failures, & inspirations that shaped my photography business + paying it forward

Discovering Your Strengths, Why Client Love Isn’t Enough, and the Impact of Support with Lydia Fine

4 ways to build momentum when you’re *not* busy in the fall

Photography Business Fears and Horror Stories 🫢

Seasons of Business, Marketing with Intention, & Choosing Education Wisely with Sabrina Gebhardt

Beyond the discounts : Navigating Black Friday as a Family Photographer

A Pre-Shoot Pep Talk / Meditation (Recenter yourself for your best work)

Why (and how) I Changed My Business Name

Get Discovered and Grow your Business in a New Place Using SEO with Melissa Arlena

4 Simple Copy Tips to Elevate your Family Photography Website

6 Unique Ways to Nurture Your Family Photography Clients

Back to School Reboot | Business Q&A

The benefits of being an introverted photographer, switching careers, shooting multiple genres, and more with Caitlin Alohilani Photography

4 Tips for How to Shoot in Any Home (In-Home Photography Series Part 3)

What's in my bag (In Home Photography Series Part 2)

If you're nervous about light, try this! (In-Home Photography Series Part 1)

Why I Don't Do Fall Minis (+ what works for me instead)

Pursuing a love of art, business, and people with Rachel Larsen Weaver

Newsletters : What I learned from One Year of The Firefly Letters

Discovering what you were created to create with Morgan Williams

Website Work

Connecting with clients by owning your story with Mary Catherine Wickman

Resetting inspiration in your personal life (when you don't feel like shooting)

Marketing, Privacy, and Social Media with Morgan Miles

The key ingredient to your success

What Even Is a Mastermind?! Inside the Photo Fuel Retreat for Family Photographers

4 ways to build momentum when you’re not busy in the fall