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 videosLinks & 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
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1:11:36
🚩 Red flags! When to TURN AWAY work
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 insightsConnect with Us: Website: vanessajoy.com YouTube: Vanessa JoyRate & 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!
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17:20
Is it luck?
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
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15:39
Photographers Don't Like To Make Money
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.
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17:53
the NEW sepia bride fiasco!
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
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