🎯 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 coaching
5:02 – 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 branding
13:48 – The biggest thing photographers are missing in sales education
14:19 – The psychology of value: Emotion first, logic later
16:59 – 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 consultation
23:44 – What separates a 5-year business from a 20-year one
Links & Resources:
Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.com
Vanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermm
Joey 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
✨ 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 everything
8:32 – The transition from hobbyist to business owner
13:15 – Why photographers avoid selling prints (and how Jen overcame it)
15:33 – How to price and offer products without scaring clients
18:30 – How Jen presents 100-page albums for emotional upsells
20:50 – The email trick that sets client expectations and protects your time
20:58 – “Clients are like toddlers”—how to guide them with structure
22:22 – Mistakes she made, including trying to be the right fit for everyone
24:08 – The time a bride asked her to hold her dress while she peed 😂
Links & Resources:
Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.com
Vanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermm
DM Vanessa “PHOTO MASTERMIND” on Instagram @vanessajoy to apply.
Jen Stitt’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovelypairofstitts
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.com
Vanessa's education: https://breatheyourpassion.com
Vanessa's mastermind: https://bit.ly/photoinsidermm
Gary's education: https://hughesfioretti.com/education
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:
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!
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
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.
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
Episode Summary:
In this episode, we dive into the controversial topic of pop-up weddings and the impact they have on the wedding industry. With 20 years of experience as a wedding photographer, I share my thoughts on the ethical dilemmas, industry trends, and personal experiences that shaped my perspective. Tune in to hear why these events are causing a stir and what they mean for couples and vendors alike.
Highlights:
00:00 - The shocking wedding invasion story
2:36 - Managing unpredictable situations at events
15:35 - Practical advice for maintaining professionalism
16:14 - Listener stories of unexpected wedding drama
Links & Resources:
Subscribe on Spotify: The Raw Files
Subscribe on YouTube: @VanessaJoy
Join my exclusive community: https://thephotoinsiders.com
Follow on IG: @vanessajoy and DM me “JOY TECH” for all my secret tools on “How I Get It All Done” for my business and personal life.
Episode Summary:
Let’s talk about the real side of being a photographer. In this episode of “Convos with Winos,” I sit down with Courtney over a glass of wine (or two) to chat about what it takes to build a successful photography business. From leaving the stability of a 9-to-5 to navigating self-doubt and figuring out how to attract the right clients, we’re getting real about the challenges and triumphs of being a creative entrepreneur. If you’ve ever wondered if you have what it takes, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to tackle your goals.
Show Notes:
Intro: Welcome to “Convos with Winos,” where we sip wine and talk business.
Taking the leap: Courtney shares how she transitioned from a steady job to full-time photography.
The early hustle: Why the first years are tough but worth every lesson.
Balancing life and work: My tips for structuring your day and protecting your mental health.
Fighting self-doubt: How to manage anxiety and keep showing up for your business.
The power of relationships: Finding clients and building trust in a saturated market.
Social media woes: Avoiding the comparison trap while staying authentic online.
When it’s time to pivot: Recognizing when your business needs a reset and how to handle it.
Thinking bigger: Creating passive income and scaling your photography business.
Wrapping up: Final thoughts, favorite wines, and what’s next for “Convos with Winos.”
Links & Resources:
Follow Courtney: https://www.instagram.com/ckoesterinspired/ AND https://www.instagram.com/cbkoester/
Subscribe on Spotify: The Raw Files
Subscribe on YouTube: @VanessaJoy
Join my exclusive community: https://thephotoinsiders.com
Follow on IG: @vanessajoy and DM me “JOY TECH” for all my secret tools on “How I Get It All Done” for my business and personal life.