The Raw Files

Επεισόδια

• 
  I Went Mega Viral for What I Charge — Here's Why I'm Not Apologizing 28.07.2026 14λ

  The "wedding tax" debate is loud online right now - and most of the loudest voices have never photographed a wedding in their lives. In this episode of The Raw Files, Vanessa Joy responds to going mega-viral (including trending on X) for her wedding photography rates by doing something no one expected: breaking down every single dollar with clear, honest math.She starts with the reality of what a wedding actually involves compared to any other event - not just the hours on the day itself, but the mood boards, timeline coordination, equipment load-ins, emotionally charged family dynamics, 40+ hours of editing across thousands of images in changing light and locations, and the post-wedding client experience including album sales. The complexity gap between a wedding and a birthday party isn't opinion - it's time, expertise, and equipment that accumulates fast.Then comes the math. Using a $5,000 wedding as the example, Vanessa walks through taxes (~$1,000), business operating costs (~$1,000), and production costs (~$1,000), leaving a photographer with roughly $2,000 profit - about $50 an hour for 40 hours of total work. Suddenly, $5,000 doesn't feel like a lot. And the math gets sharper: to earn $100,000 a year at that rate without burning out, a photographer needs to charge closer to $9,000 per wedding at 25 bookings- not $5,000 at 50.The episode closes with a call for photographers to stop thinking in hours and start thinking in value, expertise, and perspective - and to know their numbers cold before they ever quote another client.Key topics coveredWhat actually sparked this episode - going viral on TikTok and X for wedding photography ratesWhy weddings involve fundamentally more work than any other event type (before, during, and after)The full cost breakdown of a $5,000 wedding - where every dollar actually goesWhy charging $50/hour doesn't feel like a scam once you see the numbersThe 25-wedding vs. 50-wedding calculation and what it means for your minimum priceHow clients aren't paying for your hours - they're paying for your expertise and perspectiveWhy album sales can double your income without shooting a single extra weddingKey takeawaysKnow your actual numbers before you quote. Taxes, operating costs, and production expenses eat more of your rate than most photographers realize - often leaving $50/hr or less.Stop thinking in hours charged. Clients pay for your expertise, your eye, and your ability to deliver something irreplaceable - not a time sheet.A wedding is not a scaled-up birthday party. The pre-work, day-of complexity, and post-production are categorically different - and your pricing should reflect that.To earn $100K/year doing 25 weddings (a sustainable volume), you need to charge at minimum $9,000 per wedding - without album sales.Album sales are the single most overlooked revenue lever in wedding photography - they can double your income per client without adding a single new booking.Pricing guilt disappears when you know your numbers. Confidence isn't a mindset - it's math.The internet's loudest critics of photographer pricing have never photographed a wedding. That's the beginning and end of that argument.This episode is sponsored by https://17Hats.comUse code VJoy50 for a 50% discountLinks & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmReady to install a full-service model in your business in weeks, not years? Book a call with our team: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermm
• 
  The REAL Reason Wedding Photographers Can't Get Enough Bookings 17.07.2026 12λ

  The photography industry isn't oversaturated - it's overconsumed. In this episode, a multi-million dollar wedding and corporate photographer makes the case that photographers themselves are quietly draining the market, and shows exactly how to fix it without raising prices or booking a single extra client.Episode SummaryEveryone in the photography world is saying the same thing: there's not enough work, clients won't pay, the industry is dying. In this episode of The Raw Files, we challenge that narrative head-on with a controversial but data-backed argument - the industry isn't dying, it's being drained by photographers who are unintentionally overworking the market.The core issue? Most photographers are running volume-based businesses while believing they're boutique or premium. By failing to sell albums, prints, and full-service experiences, they're forced to book double the clients just to hit their income goals - which floods the market, drives down pricing power, and fuels the burnout cycle everyone complains about.Using real numbers from markets across the country - El Paso, San Diego, New Jersey, and New York - this episode breaks down how clients spend an average of 50% more than their original package price when albums are positioned and sold correctly. That's the difference between shooting 30 weddings a year to hit $150K, or shooting 15.This episode also tackles the biggest excuses photographers use to avoid selling products: "my clients don't want it," "my market can't afford it," and "I already tried, and it didn't work." Each one gets dismantled with a mix of psychology, positioning strategy, and real client data.If you're a wedding or portrait photographer feeling stuck in a cycle of overbooking, underselling, and undercharging, this episode offers a clear, actionable path to building a more profitable, sustainable business without gatekeeping, fluff, or working more hours.Key Topics CoveredWhy "oversaturation" in photography is really a symptom of under-monetizationThe volume-based vs. boutique business model trapHow album and print sales change the math of a wedding businessReal client spending data across five U.S. marketsWhy clients say no to albums (and it's not about price)How shifting wedding culture is creating new demand for tangible productsThe mindset shift from "shoot and deliver" to "full-service photographer"How overbooking one photographer starves the rest of the industryKey TakeawaysPhotographers taking on double the workload they need are unintentionally shrinking the available market for everyone else.Selling albums isn't optional add-on revenue - it's the difference between a $5K wedding and a $12K wedding.Clients spend an average of 50% more than their original package price when products are sold with proper positioning and storytelling."My clients don't want it" and "my market can't afford it" are almost always sales and communication problems, not market realities.Couples increasingly expect tangible deliverables like albums as part of a complete photography experience.You don't need more leads or bookings - you need to fully monetize the clients you already have.A profit-focused, product-based business model lets you make more money while working significantly less.This episode is sponsored by https://17Hats.comUse code VJoy50 for a 50% discountLinks & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://www.breatheyourpassion.com/mastermind-application-form?source=raw_filesReady to install a full-service model in your business in weeks, not years? Go to https://www.instagram.com/vanessajoybusiness and DM the number “222”
• 
  Spotting Educator Fakes | It’s Not Your Fault You Were Taught by the Wrong Person 30.06.2026 9λ

  "You didn't fail at business. You were just taught by the wrong person." If you've ever bought a course, joined a mastermind, or followed a photographer-turned-educator — and still felt stuck — this episode is going to change how you think about who you trust with your business education.Episode summaryThe photography education industry has a problem — and it's not talked about enough. Talented photographers are spending real money on business advice that doesn't work, and instead of questioning the advice, they blame themselves. In this episode, we're calling out exactly why that happens and what to do about it.Host and 16-year photography business veteran breaks down the critical difference between educators who are actively running profitable photography businesses and those who are simply selling the idea of one. She makes clear that business coaching doesn't require being a current photographer — but it absolutely requires teaching strategies that reflect today's buyers, today's market, and today's culture.You'll get a practical framework for vetting any photography business educator before you invest: Are their methods current? Are they transparent about where their income actually comes from? Do they go beyond surface-level advice like "post consistently" and "price yourself with confidence"? And do they have long-term proof — not just a handful of testimonials or screenshot wins?This episode is also a direct call to raise the standard across the industry — for educators to be more honest and for photographers to be more discerning. If you've ever maxed out a credit card on a course that didn't deliver, or internalized failure that wasn't yours to carry, this conversation is for you.Key topics coveredWhy photographers blame themselves for advice that was never going to workThe difference between teaching photography and teaching photography business — and why it mattersWhat makes a business educator legitimate in today's marketWhy transparency about income sources is a non-negotiable green flagSpecific outdated advice still being recycled in photography education circlesHow to vet a coach or course with 4 practical questions before spending anythingWhat real social proof looks like vs. curated testimonialsThis episode is sponsored by: https://17Hats.comLinks & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://www.breatheyourpassion.com/mastermind-application-form?source=raw_filesWant a FREE wedding photography business course? Go to https://www.instagram.com/vanessajoybusiness and DM the number “349”
• 
  My $96,000 Tax Refund! You're Not Overpaying Taxes Because You're Bad with Money — You're Just Missing This Strategy 26.06.2026 8λ

  A $96,000 tax refund. Not because of a bad year. Not because of a loophole found on TikTok. Because of a strategy most photographers have never been taught — and one that's completely legal. If you've ever handed your numbers to a CPA and just paid whatever they said you owe, this episode will change how you think about money forever.Episode summaryMost photographers spend their careers learning how to shoot better, edit faster, and market smarter. Almost none of them are taught how to keep the money they're already making. In this episode, we're talking about the financial strategy gap that's quietly costing photographers thousands every year — and what it actually looks like to fix it.The host shares the real story behind a $96,000 IRS refund: not a lucky year, not an accounting error, but the result of switching from a reactive, compliance-based approach to taxes into a proactive, intentional wealth strategy. She breaks down exactly what that strategy involved - the Augusta Rule, cost segregation studies, legal retirement investing, hiring children through the business, and consistent conversations with a tax strategist (not just a tax preparer).The episode draws a clear and important line between an accountant and a tax strategist. Accountants file paperwork accurately. Tax strategists build plans that reduce what you legally owe over the long term. Most photographers have one but not the other - and they don't realize that's the problem.This isn't about being flashy or finding loopholes. It's about understanding that taxes are not unavoidable - they're just misunderstood. Photographers inside the Photo to Profit system save an average of $18,000 per year once they start applying these strategies. The episode closes with a reminder that financial clarity isn't just about money - it's about the confidence to take risks, make bigger decisions, and stop playing small inside your business.Key topics coveredThe story behind a $96,000 IRS refund and what actually made it possibleWhy most photographers treat taxes reactively instead of strategicallyThe critical difference between a CPA (compliance) and a tax strategist (planning)Five specific legal strategies used: Augusta Rule, cost segregation, retirement investing, hiring your kids, and intentional deduction planningWhy photographers save an average of $18,000/year once they understand tax strategyHow financial anxiety is directly tied to financial confusion — and how clarity changes everythingWhy you don't need to earn more before you can build wealth — you need to stop giving it awayThis episode is sponsored by: https://17Hats.comLinks & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://www.breatheyourpassion.com/mastermind-application-form?source=raw_filesWant a FREE wedding photography business course? Go to https://www.instagram.com/vanessajoybusiness and DM the number “349”
• 
  Opportunity Loss: The Money You’re Losing Without Knowing It 01.06.2026 8λ

  What if the biggest thing holding your photography business back… isn’t what you’re doing—but what you’re missing?In this episode of The Raw Files, Vanessa Joy dives into one of the most overlooked (and expensive) problems photographers face: opportunity loss. It’s not just about the clients you didn’t book—it’s about the income, impact, creativity, and legacy that never had the chance to exist because your business wasn’t ready.From confusing pricing systems to inconsistent client experiences, Vanessa breaks down how small gaps in your business quietly cost you thousands—year after year—without you even realizing it.But this isn’t about guilt. It’s a wake-up call.If you’ve ever felt stuck, burned out, or like you’re working hard but not getting ahead, this episode will show you why—and what needs to change.Because when your business is in order, opportunities don’t just show up… they multiply. 🔥 Episode HighlightsThe real definition of opportunity loss (and why it’s costing you more than you think) How broken pricing, weak workflows, and poor communication silently lose you bookingsThe financial leaks in your business that can add up to tens of thousands per yearWhy being “busy” doesn’t mean you’re actually profitableThe emotional toll of a disorganized business: burnout, insecurity, and creative blockHow opportunity loss affects your future wealth, retirement, and legacyVanessa’s powerful Kenya story—and how a profitable business enabled a $20,000 impactThe difference between running a business that drains you vs. one that supports your lifeWhy systems, structure, and support are the key to scaling (not just working harder)The mindset shift from surviving → scaling → giving → legacy Links & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmVisit Vanessa's IG @vanessajoy and DM her "PHOTO MASTERMIND" to learn more.
• 
  From Overworked to Profitable: A Wedding Photographer’s Breakthrough Story 01.05.2026 28λ

  What if you could make more money in your photography business… without booking more weddings?In this episode of The Raw Files, we sit down with Maya, a wedding photographer from El Paso, who went from overwhelmed, overworked, and undercharging… to running a more efficient, profitable business—while pregnant and raising two kids.We dive into:How she saved hours using AI editing tools like Imagine AIWhy switching to a CRM and automation changed everythingThe simple pricing shift that turned $0 engagement sessions into consistent upsellsHow she made a $1,400 album sale (after barely breaking even before)The mindset shift that unlocked higher-paying clients in her marketIf you’re a photographer feeling stuck, burnt out, or unsure how to grow without doing more work, this episode will change how you see your business. 🎯 Whether you're learning from Professional Photographers of America or figuring things out on your own, this conversation will help you connect the dots and scale smarter. Links & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmVisit Vanessa's IG @vanessajoy and DM her "PHOTO MASTERMIND" to learn more.
• 
  The biggest lie in photography: Time ≠ Money 01.04.2026 33λ

  One of the biggest myths in photography is that time in the industry automatically leads to money. Stay long enough, work hard enough, and eventually it will all click… right?Not exactly.In this episode of The Raw Files, Vanessa Joy sits down with acclaimed wedding photographer and educator Susan Stripling for a candid conversation about the realities of building a long-term photography career.With over two decades in the industry, Susan shares what actually separates photographers who build stable, profitable businesses from those who stall out after a few years. Together, Vanessa and Susan unpack why experience alone doesn’t translate into income, why more leads usually aren’t the solution, and why education and speaking aren’t the “next step” many photographers assume they are.This conversation goes beyond the usual advice and dives into the real factors that sustain a career in photography: business strategy, relationships, mindset, and the ability to adapt as both your life and the industry evolve.They also discuss the uncomfortable truths photographers rarely talk about, including money stigma, the myth of the self-taught entrepreneur, and why treating photography like a real business is the key to longevity.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why simply staying in the photography industry longer doesn’t guarantee financial successThe real reasons photography businesses stall after a few yearsWhy more inquiries won’t fix a weak business modelThe truth about teaching, speaking, and education in the photography industryHow relationships, not networking, build long-term careersPractical ways photographers can make more money without booking more jobsIf you’ve ever wondered why your experience hasn’t translated into income yet or how to build a photography career that actually lasts, this honest conversation will challenge the way you think about the business.🎧 Listen now and rethink what it really takes to succeed in photography. Links & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmVisit Vanessa's IG @vanessajoy and DM her "PHOTO MASTERMIND" to learn more. Visit Susan's IG ⁠@susanstriplingphotography)⁠
• 
  How mentorship accelerates your photography business 15.03.2026 12λ

  Podcast DescriptionIn this episode of The Raw Files, Vanessa Joy shares the three accelerators that transformed her personal life, finances, and photography business in just 10 months - more than the growth she experienced in the previous decade combined.And no, it’s not about a new camera, a better lens, or the latest Instagram strategy.Vanessa breaks down the real factors behind rapid business growth for photographers: reading the right business books, surrounding yourself with people who push you to think bigger, and taking calculated risks that move your career forward. She also shares the mindset shifts that helped photographers in her mentorship start booking higher-paying clients and building more profitable businesses.If you’ve been stuck relying on free tutorials, hoping your work will “speak for itself,” this episode is your wake-up call. Growth doesn’t come from waiting, it comes from investing in the right knowledge, the right people, and the right actions.Vanessa also gives a behind-the-scenes look at her Photo Insiders Mastermind and how mentorship, accountability, and a proven system can help photographers turn their passion into real profit.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why improving your craft alone won’t grow your photography businessThe business books that can completely change how you market and sellHow the people around you influence your pricing, confidence, and successWhy calculated risks are essential if you want real growthHow mentorship can accelerate your business faster than going it aloneIf you’re ready to stop guessing and start building a profitable photography business, this episode will challenge the way you think about growth.🎧 Listen now and start compounding your success. Links & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmVisit Vanessa's IG @vanessajoy and DM her "PHOTO MASTERMIND" to learn more.
• 
  Why Most Creatives Won’t Make Money in 2026 (And How to Fix It) 01.03.2026 36λ

  In this episode of The Raw Files, Vanessa sits down with Lizzie Pierce to talk about why photographers and videographers struggle with sales, confidence, AI fears, and inconsistent systems and what actually separates profitable creatives from the stuck ones.We cover:• Why waiting to feel ready is costing you money• The truth about AI replacing photographers• How to run discovery calls that convert• Why you don’t need more leads... you need better systems• The mindset shift that unlocks growth If you’re a creative entrepreneur who wants to turn passion into profit, this episode is your wake-up call. Links & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmVisit Vanessa's IG @vanessajoy and DM her "PHOTO MASTERMIND" to learn more. ✅ Want unlimited media stock downloads? Check this - HTTP://STORYBLOCKS.COM/VANESSAJOY Visit Lizzie's IG: @lizziepeirce
• 
  The REAL Reason Experienced Photographers Are Struggling to Get Leads 26.02.2026 16λ

  If you’ve been in business for 5, 10, or even 20+ years and your leads are slowing down, this is not about bad luck, the economy, AI, or social media algorithms. In Episode 1 of Raw Files, we talk about the real reason experienced photographers are struggling in 2026... and why reputation alone no longer books clients. For years, word of mouth, relationships, and past success carried your business. But markets change, buyer behavior evolves, and what worked five or ten years ago doesn’t automatically work today. When your marketing, positioning, and systems don’t evolve, momentum fades even if your work is still incredible. In this episode, we cover: - Why reputation expires if it’s not reinforced - The difference between a photography problem and a business problem - Why posting more on social media won’t fix declining leads - How buyer behavior has changed (and what that means for your sales process) - The systems and messaging photographers skipped when business was “easy” - How to rebuild demand without burning down everything you’ve built This podcast is for photographers and videographers who are done blaming the market and ready to rebuild intentionally—from the ground up. Links & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmVisit Vanessa's IG @vanessajoy and DM her "PHOTO MASTERMIND" to learn more.
• 
  “I Take Photos, Pay Me” — Why That Mindset Keeps Photographers Stuck 01.02.2026 46λ

  In this episode of The Raw Files, we sit down with Corie Savary, a brand photographer and videographer based in Los Angeles, to talk about what it really takes to build a sustainable photography business in an oversaturated market. From starting in television and film, working on movie sets, and burning out in the film industry, to rebuilding a creative business from the ground up - Corie shares a raw, honest look at the mindset shifts, fears, and breakthroughs that moved him from surviving as a freelancer to running a true business. This conversation dives deep into:Why the photography industry isn’t actually oversaturatedThe difference between being a freelancer and thinking like a CEONavigating fear, imposter syndrome, and “am I cut out for this?” momentsHow mentorship, systems, and community accelerate growthPricing shifts, subscription models, and building recurring revenueNetworking when you hate small talkConfidence, boundaries, and making decisions from a business-first mindsetWhat changed after joining a photography mastermind — and why betting on yourself mattersWe also talk about neurodiversity, burnout, health challenges, and the internal battles creative entrepreneurs face especially when building a business alongside real life, relationships, and financial pressure. If you’re a photographer or videographer feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or questioning your next move, this episode is proof that clarity, confidence, and growth come from learning, listening, and taking intentional action. No fluff. No fake hustle. Just raw conversations about photography, creativity, and building a business that actually works. Welcome to The Raw Files. Let’s shoot. Raw. Links & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmVisit Vanessa's IG @vanessajoy and DM her "PHOTO MASTERMIND" to learn more.
• 
  Why Established Photographers Are Losing Momentum 15.01.2026 14λ

  If you’ve been in business 5, 10, or 20+ years and your leads have slowed, this episode is for you. In this raw solo episode, Vanessa Joy explains why reputation, referrals, and past success eventually stop working, and why the market didn’t fail you… it moved. This isn’t about the economy, AI, or algorithms. It’s about outdated messaging, systems, and positioning. If coasting feels uncomfortable to hear about, good. That’s your signal to rebuild intentionally. Links & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmVisit Vanessa's IG @vanessajoy and DM her "PHOTO MASTERMIND" to learn more.
• 
  🤑 How this Photographer TRIPLED his Income! 🤑 💵 💰 31.12.2025 33λ

  Key highlights:✅ Stephen’s Photography Journey - Average wedding price grew from $4,400 to $13,000 in 2025-26, with fewer weddings booked but higher revenue.✅ Business Growth and Coaching - Joined a mastermind program that helped him find his unique brand voice and business strategy.✅ Album Sales and Revenue - Average album sale increased from $1,300 to $6,000, doubling total job revenue to about $13,000.✅ Mindset and Future Plans - Emphasizes the importance of networking and joining professional groups. 00:00 Introduction and background on starting photography03:00 Transition into wedding photography and initial fears:04:45 Joining the mastermind and coaching experience10:40 Delegation and hiring a VA12:45 Pricing and revenue growth details14:00 Album process changes and upselling16:45 Mindset shifts and business growth18:00 Interesting story22:00 Expanding into corporate photography25:00 Fear is normal26:45 Favorite part of the process 29:50 Networking Links & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmVisit Vanessa's IG @vanessajoy and DM her "PHOTO MASTERMIND" to learn more Imagen AI: Get your 1500 FREE edits here
• 
  You're Not a Photographer - You're a Salesperson! | The Raw Files 13.05.2025 25λ

  🎯 Episode Summary:In this episode of The Raw Files, Vanessa Joy sits down with business coach and photographer Joey T to expose a hard truth: most photographers are failing not because of their photos, but because they don’t understand sales. Joey unpacks his journey from psychology to photography to full-time entrepreneurship, revealing the common mindset traps photographers fall into and the strategies he uses to help them scale with purpose.You’ll get real talk on the emotional science behind pricing, the psychology of buying, and how storytelling—not spec sheets—is the secret to closing high-value clients. Whether you're 1 year or 10 years into your business, this episode will challenge how you view your worth, your client experience, and your next move. 📌 Episode Highlights:1:23 – Joey’s journey: From psychology to photography to full-time coaching5:02 – Why Joey created Mosaic Creative (and how it helps photographers sell while they sleep)9:24 – The "steakhouse" pricing analogy and how photographers lose clients with cheap branding13:48 – The biggest thing photographers are missing in sales education14:19 – The psychology of value: Emotion first, logic later16:59 – What happens when clients sell themselves (and why YOU don’t need to push)22:03 – The power of storytelling in sales—and how to use it in every consultation23:44 – What separates a 5-year business from a 20-year one Links & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmJoey T’s Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/joeyt.mcrafted/Visit Vanessa's IG @vanessajoy and DM her "PHOTO MASTERMIND" to learn more Imagen AI: Get your 1500 FREE edits here https://imagenai.com/tips
• 
  Digital Is Where Photos Go to Die | The Raw Files 28.04.2025 26λ

  ✨ Episode Summary:In this episode of The Raw Files, Vanessa Joy chats with wedding photographer and business-savvy educator Jen Stitt. From being underpaid by a boss who shot everything on auto to building a thriving photography brand, Jen shares the behind-the-scenes journey of how she went from shooting anything for a paycheck to selling heirloom products that clients cherish forever.This episode dives deep into the real reason many photographers stay stuck: they're afraid to treat their passion like a real business. Jen brings humor, honesty, and wisdom as she talks about valuing your time, raising your profit margins, and why it's okay (and necessary) to say no to clients who aren’t a fit. 🧠 Topic Highlights:1:07 – Jen’s first photography job (and everything NOT to do)4:23 – Her father-in-law’s advice that changed everything8:32 – The transition from hobbyist to business owner13:15 – Why photographers avoid selling prints (and how Jen overcame it)15:33 – How to price and offer products without scaring clients18:30 – How Jen presents 100-page albums for emotional upsells20:50 – The email trick that sets client expectations and protects your time20:58 – “Clients are like toddlers”—how to guide them with structure22:22 – Mistakes she made, including trying to be the right fit for everyone24:08 – The time a bride asked her to hold her dress while she peed 😂 Links & Resources:Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmDM Vanessa “PHOTO MASTERMIND” on Instagram @vanessajoy to apply.Jen Stitt’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovelypairofstitts
• 
  How to NOT be a Brand Shill | The Raw Files 08.04.2025 1ώ 11λ

  Episode Summary:In this episode of The Raw Files, Vanessa Joy and Gary dive into the biggest mistakes photographers make and why most people in the industry are doing things completely wrong. They break down brand sponsorships, pricing struggles, and whether free shoots are ever worth it. Plus, they discuss RAW files, handling difficult clients, and common myths photographers still believe.Highlights:0:00 - Intro11:30 - The truth about brand sponsorships20:20 - How much do you make?32:35 - Posing same-sex couples39:30 - Growth has to be painful41:05 - Pricing struggle for photographers49:15 - What you should outsource58:35 - How to get likes and views on YouTube1:04:00 - Nobody watches business videos Links & Resources:Water wells for Kenya: https://www.safariwildlifeandlandscape.comVanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.comVanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermmGary's education: https://hughesfioretti.com/education
• 
  🚩 Red flags! When to TURN AWAY work 25.02.2025 17λ

  Episode Summary: Photographers talk a lot about spotting red flags in clients, but what about when photographers need to say no? In this episode, Vanessa Joy dives into the real, unspoken truth about turning down clients. From personality clashes to budget concerns and even those infamous "crazy eyes," learn how to spot warning signs before they become business nightmares. This episode isn't just about protecting your art—it’s about protecting your peace of mind and making sure your business thrives with the right clientele. What You’ll Learn: Why some wedding clients can be a bigger red flag than a bad photographer. The real reason photographers need to turn down certain clients. The types of clients that can lead to unrealistic expectations and chargeback nightmares. How to gracefully say no to a client without burning bridges. Why it’s okay to protect your mental health as a creative. Show Notes: [0:00] Not all bookings are good bookings—learn to spot the red flags early. [06:41] "Crazy eyes" might sound funny, but they’re often an indicator of trouble ahead. [07:14] Clients who stretch their budgets too far often have unrealistic expectations. [10:12] A personality clash can make a wedding day miserable for both parties. [11:23] Priorities matter: If a couple is focused on the wedding over the marriage, it may not be a good fit. Resources & Links: Follow Vanessa Joy on Instagram Join the Photo Insiders community for exclusive content and education, and Shadow A Pro for more in-depth behind the scenes of real weddings and engagements. Subscribe to The Raw Files for more industry insights Connect with Us: Website: vanessajoy.com YouTube: Vanessa Joy Rate & Review: If you loved this episode, let us know! Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share it with a fellow photographer. Let’s keep the industry strong together!
• 
  Is it luck? 27.01.2025 15λ

  Episode Summary: In this episode of The Raw Files, Vanessa answers a thought-provoking question about luck in business and discusses how preparation, mindset, and strategic thinking can help drive success. She shares insights on how photographers can better approach sales, challenges the concept of price-first thinking, and teaches how to sell the benefits rather than the features of what you offer. Highlights: 00:05 The Role of Luck in Business 02:41 Rejection and Mindset 9:56 The Importance of Benefits Over Features 10:06 Sales and Mindset 10:30 Selling the Vacation, Not the Plane Ride 14:47 Upcoming Events and Mentorship Opportunities Resources Mentioned: To Sell Is Human (Book) – by Daniel H. Pink Vanessa's Photography Mastermind (currently sold out, with a waiting list) Upcoming Events: Imaging USA – February 3-4, 2025, Dallas, TX WPPI – March 2025, Las Vegas, NV Listen to The Raw Files Podcast: Tune in for more real talk on photography business, gear, trends, and mindset shifts that help you succeed in the visual world. Connect with Vanessa: Instagram: @VanessaJoy Website: VanessaJoy.com
• 
  Photographers Don't Like To Make Money 20.01.2025 17λ

  Episode Summary: In this episode of The Raw Files, we tackle the uncomfortable truth about why photographers often shy away from making money. With over 20 years of experience in weddings, portraits, and corporate photography, I reflect on the mindset shifts needed to thrive as a photographer in today’s evolving industry. From the rise of "creator photographers" to the shame tied to charging what you're worth, we discuss the trends, challenges, and solutions for making a sustainable career out of your passion. Highlights: 00:56 - Why photographers hate making money 01:09 - The difference between traditional photographers and creator photographers 08:08 - The stigma around money and its impact on longevity in the industry 08:36 - Why business knowledge is essential to success 16:03 - A look at photographer bashing and how it hurts the community 16:57 - In-person photo conferences Upcoming Events: Imaging USA – February 3-4, 2025, Dallas, TX WPPI – March 2025, Las Vegas, NV Links & Resources: Subscribe on Spotify: The Raw Files Subscribe on YouTube: @VanessaJoy Check out my website: https://vanessajoy.com Join my exclusive community: https://thephotoinsiders.com Follow on Instagram: @vanessajoy and DM me “Photo Mastermind” for info on my exclusive coaching program. Want to learn more about mastering the business side of photography? Join my Photo Mastermind! DM me on Instagram for details.
• 
  the NEW sepia bride fiasco! 13.01.2025 43λ

  Episode Summary: In this episode of The Raw Files, we dive into the viral story of a bride’s controversial TikTok video and the ripple effect it had across the wedding industry. Lauren, a Gen Z bride, shared her dissatisfaction with her wedding makeup artist online, sparking debates about professionalism, client communication, and the power of social media in shaping narratives. Highlights: 00:00 – The viral TikTok story of Lauren and her wedding makeup artist 07:15 – How the wedding industry can improve communication with Gen Z couples 14:40 – The importance of feedback and creating personalized client experiences 20:55 – Why business and sales training is crucial for photographers 28:30 – How the community supported the makeup artist and lessons on empathy 33:15 – Balancing passion with profitability: Lessons from a mastermind program Links & Resources: Subscribe on Spotify: The Raw Files Subscribe on YouTube: @VanessaJoy Visit my website: VanessaJoy.com Join my exclusive community: The Photo Insiders Follow on Instagram: @VanessaJoy – DM me “Mastermind” for info on my coaching program Upcoming Events: Imaging USA – February 3-4, 2025, Dallas, TX WPPI – March 2025, Las Vegas, NV Take Your Business to the Next Level: Want to learn more about mastering the business side of photography? Join my Photo Mastermind program! https://bit.ly/photoinsidermm