✨ 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