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Hair of the Dog Podcast

Nicole Begley

Are you a pet photographer hoping to start or grow your business so that you can finally live the life of YOUR design? Welcome to your one-stop-shop for practical tips, actionable strategies, detailed case studies, interviews with industry leaders, and everything else you need to start making money in pet photography. - Your host is Nicole Begley, a zoological animal trainer turned pet photographer. Nicole has been running a successful pet photography business since 2010 and is also the founder of Hair of the Dog Academy where she has helped people just like you build profitable pet photography businesses all around the world. - In this show, you will learn about photographing animals, starting your pet photography business, working with clients, pricing your photography, selling your photographic art, marketing your photography business, and creating an incredible client experience.

  • 41 minutes 25 seconds
    From IG to Email Lists with Dayna Schaaf

    240 - In today's episode, we're diving into the realm of marketing automation and its incredible benefits for photographers. Whether you're juggling multiple roles in your business or looking for effective ways to streamline your marketing efforts, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice.

    Joining us is special guest Dayna Schaaf, a marketing guru from "This Can't Be That Hard," who brings a wealth of knowledge on using tools like ManyChat to enhance client interaction without losing that personal touch for our social media. 

    We’ll discuss the indispensable power of having an email list, provide simple steps to keep your marketing efforts consistent and effective, and share tailored advice for introverts who want to maximize their social media impact without stepping out of their comfort zone.

    Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, these insights will help you attract and retain clients more efficiently while keeping your marketing game strong and stress-free. Get ready to transform the way you engage with your audience and set your photography business up for success!


    What To Listen For:

    • The Power of an Email List: Discover why having an email list is crucial for photographers and how it can be more reliable than social media platforms.
    • Simple Steps to Effective Marketing: Uncover practical tips for photographers to manage their marketing efforts without feeling overwhelmed, focusing on key actions that bring results.
    • Leveraging Social Media: Insights on how to use social media effectively to attract and retain a photography clientele, even for introverts who prefer minimal social interaction.
    • Marketing for Introverts: Tailored advice for photographers who are introverts, emphasizing how to handle social media and client interactions comfortably.
    • Utilizing MiniChat for Client Interaction: Explore how MiniChat can be used to automate and personalize client interactions without making it feel robotic or impersonal.


    Connect with Dayna Schaaf:


    Resources From This Episode:


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    30 April 2024, 5:00 am
  • 35 minutes 7 seconds
    10 Thoughts that Hold Photographers Back Part 3

    239 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast! As emerging photographers, many of you might be grappling with the question: "Am I ready to start charging for my services?" 


    It's a hurdle that every new photographer faces at some point. You might feel like your skills aren't polished enough or your portfolio isn't vast enough to justify setting a price. Perhaps there's a lingering doubt whether your business structure is comprehensive enough to start accepting payments. 


    Today, we're diving deep into these insecurities. We'll debunk the myth that you need to be perfect to start charging, explore how to recognize the value you already offer, and discuss how to gauge market response to your pricing. Our goal is to equip you with the confidence to move past self-doubt and start building a profitable photography business, step by step.


    What To Listen For:

    • The Myth of 'Not Good Enough': How to challenge the common fear that your skills or portfolio aren't ready for the market.
    • Recognizing Your Value: Understanding that charging for your work isn't about perfection, but about the value you're providing right now.
    • Market Response: Discovering that market acceptance is a more accurate indicator of readiness to charge than personal doubt.
    • Setting Initial Prices: Insights into setting your initial pricing based on your current skill level and market standards.
    • Overcoming Self-Doubt: Strategies for moving past the feeling that you're not experienced enough to start charging for your services.


    Resources From This Episode:

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    23 April 2024, 5:00 am
  • 35 minutes 32 seconds
    10 Thoughts that Hold Photographers Back Part 2

    238 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast! In this episode, we're continuing our exploration of the common excuses photographers make that stall their progress. 

    Heather Lahtinen joins us once again as we call BS on these all-too-familiar myths. Whether it’s the size of your audience, your personal skills in sales, or misconceptions about what clients value, we’re here to break down these barriers. 

    Join us as we tackle more of these limiting beliefs, empowering you to push past the excuses and thrive in your photography business. Let’s dive in and debunk these myths together!


    What To Listen For:

    1. I need a bigger audience first: Debunking the myth that success is solely dependent on having a large following or email list before you can effectively market your services.

    2. I'm not good at sales and marketing: Challenging the belief that you are inherently bad at sales or marketing, emphasizing that these are skills that can be learned and improved with practice and education.

    3. Clients only care about digital files, not prints or albums: Addressing the misconception that clients are only interested in digital products and showing how diverse client preferences can be, including a demand for physical products like prints and albums.

    4. I just need to find the right marketing trick: Dispelling the notion that there is a single, magical marketing trick that will solve all business challenges, encouraging a more holistic and consistent approach to marketing strategies.

    5. I need to perfect my skills before I can charge more (or at all): Overcoming the belief that you need to reach a level of perfection in your skills before you can justify charging appropriately for your services. This myth will be discussed in more detail in the next episode.


    Resources From This Episode:

    Connect with Heather

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    16 April 2024, 5:00 am
  • 34 minutes 51 seconds
    10 Thoughts that Hold Photographers Back Part 1

    237 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of running a successful photography business! 

    Today, Nicole Begley and our mostly-co-host, Heather Lahtinen, tackle the tricky terrain of photography pricing and those stubborn beliefs that just might be holding your business back.

     Ever whispered to yourself, "That strategy won't work for my photography business," or felt your heart race at the thought of adjusting your pricing? You're not alone. 

    We're here to challenge those thoughts head-on, from debunking market myths to navigating the anxiety around photography pricing. 

    This episode is all about embracing your unique path, standing confidently by your pricing structure, and infusing a bit more joy into your photography business journey. So, settle in and let's unravel these common photography business conundrums together!

    What To Listen For:

    Redefining Market Boundaries: "That won't work in my market" is a common refrain by photographers and one that we think is absolutely detrimental to your business. 

    The Price Perception Puzzle: Ever consider that high prices might actually be attracting clients rather than deterring them?

    Embracing Your Unique Path: No matter how crowded the market may seem - there’s always room for your unique and authentic path. 

    Navigating the Fear of High Prices: Does the thought of raising your prices give you heart palpatations?  We’ll reveal strategies to help you confidently stand by your pricing structure.

    The Power of Reframing Thoughts: Figuring out what thoughts aren’t serving you are only part of the problem - now we need to learn how to reframe them.


    Resources From This Episode:

    Watch the podcast on Youtube!

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    9 April 2024, 5:00 am
  • 23 minutes 45 seconds
    The Offline Photographer Ep. 4

    236 - This episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, hosted by Heather Lahtinen, delves into the "Offline Photographer Challenge" introduced in episode 219. The challenge is part of the Elevate program, designed to help photographers enhance their in-person marketing strategies by engaging with their local community. Heather invites Laura Wombwell to share her experiences and insights on expanding marketing efforts through building relationships with other photographers.


    The conversation highlights the formation of the Southwestern Ontario Pet Photographer Group, initiated by Laura during the pandemic. This group aimed to create a supportive community where photographers could share referrals, resources, and knowledge. Laura discusses the benefits of this network, including client referrals, shared educational events, and a collective marketing reach that educates the community about pet photography.

    What To Listen For:

    • Community Over Competition: Discover how Laura's initiative to create a Southwestern Ontario Pet Photographer Group transformed the competitive landscape into a supportive community, promoting growth and collaboration among local photographers.
    • The Referral Ecosystem: Unveil the power of referrals within a photographer network and how it can lead to mutual growth, better client matches, and an enriched photography community.
    • Navigating Client Fit: Examine the strategy of referring clients to fellow photographers when they are not the best fit for you, ensuring client satisfaction and maintaining professional integrity.
    • Setting Standards: Delve into the criteria for group membership, such as requiring business insurance and tax compliance, to maintain professionalism and trust within the community.
    • Avoiding Negativity: Understand the group's approach to maintaining a positive and supportive environment, steering clear of client complaints and industry gossip to foster a healthy community dynamic.


    The episode explores the importance of mindset, emphasizing community over competition, and the positive impacts of transparency, diversity, and professionalism within the photographer network. It encourages listeners to take on the challenge of networking with other photographers, not just for referrals and business growth but also for personal development and community building.


    Connect with Heather


    Connect with Laura


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    2 April 2024, 5:00 am
  • 40 minutes 19 seconds
    Dark Heather

    235 - Heather Lahtinen has been a regular guest on the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, bringing her insights and experiences to our vibrant community of photographers. 

    But today's episode unveils a side of Heather we've never seen before - a side that she used to keep hidden. 

    In a candid and transformative conversation, Heather steps into the hot seat not just to share her expertise, but to explore her inner world with the guidance of Michelle Crandall, affectionately known as "The People's Coach” in Elevate. 

    Brace yourself for a deep dive into 'Dark Heather' and the enlightening journey towards embracing all facets of one's self.

    What To Listen For:

    1. The Unveiling of 'Dark Heather': Discover the transformative power of acknowledging and embracing the less polished sides of our personalities.
    2. Michelle Crandall's Insightful Coaching: How "The People's Coach" approaches common struggles with self-doubt and negative self-talk, offering a new perspective.
    3. A Compliment That Sparks a Journey: A simple interaction at the chiropractor's office leads Heather down a path of self-discovery and reflection on her public versus private self.
    4. The Thanksgiving Table of Self: A visualization technique that helps integrate all aspects of one's personality, even those we're tempted to hide.
    5. Confronting the Fear of Misjudgment: Tackling the anxiety around how others perceive us and the desire to control those perceptions.

    Join us on this enlightening journey as Heather and Michelle delve into the intricacies of personal development and self-acceptance, offering valuable insights not just for photographers, but for anyone that happens to be human.

    Connect with Heather 

    Connect with Michelle


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    26 March 2024, 5:00 am
  • 54 minutes 36 seconds
    Art, Lifestyle, or Love: What Drives Your Business?

    Welcome to another episode of the Creative Freedom Rebellion - a podcast series within the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, hosted by Nicole Begley and J. Nichole Smith, AKA Nic.  

    Through the past 10+ years of mentoring pet photographers, we’ve noticed that the “why” of many pet photographers falls into one of three buckets.  The love of art, the goal of lifestyle, or the love of dog. It’s important to dive into these differences because these motivations can shape not only your work but how you present it to the world.

    Not a pet photographer?  Don’t pass this episode over as it will still be applicable as the first two buckets will be the same, but your love of dog would simply be the love of whatever your subject of choice is.  

    What To Listen For:

    1. Embracing the Creative Freedom Rebellion: How to carve out a pet photography path that's uniquely yours, defying conventional expectations.”
    2. The Transformation of Pet Photography: Learn about the journey from a niche market to a competitive industry and what that means for today's photographers.
    3. Finding Your Niche Within a Niche: Discover the importance of identifying your unique angle in pet photography, whether it's the art, lifestyle, or the animals themselves.
    4. Tailored Marketing Strategies: Gain insights into effective marketing strategies that align with your specific focus in pet photography, ensuring you connect with your ideal clientele.
    5. The Joy Factor: How prioritizing happiness can revolutionize your business approach and personal fulfillment.

    We each created our business for different reasons, but one reason that is often universal was the goal of having more fulfillment and freedom in our lives.  To make money doing something we love.  This episode will open your eyes to the different roads that photographers choose to travel down and how when you know more about your motivation, you can make your business even more fulfilling.

    For those interested in exploring commercial pet photography, our yearly free training is coming back April 10th - and it’s ALL new this year.  Jump on the training waitlist here so you don’t miss your chance to join this incredible free event. 

    Want the video version? Watch here. 

    Resources from this Episode

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    19 March 2024, 5:00 am
  • 41 minutes 58 seconds
    Your Mind Circus with Karen Bartos

    233 - Today’s episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast is an episode that will resonate with photographers across all specialties. 

    In this enlightening conversation, I sit down with Karen Bartos, a boudoir photographer whose journey from landscape and high school senior photography to the intimate world of boudoir is a narrative of transformation and self-discovery that every photographer can learn from.

    What to Listen For:

    • A Journey of Transformation: Karen shares her captivating transition from landscape to high school senior photography, and ultimately to the empowering field of boudoir photography. 
    • The Power of Pivoting: Learn about the pivotal moments that prompted Karen to shift her focus entirely to boudoir photography, embracing the challenges and triumphs of making such a significant change in her career.
    • Embracing Change and Overcoming Burnout: Karen opens up about the signs of burnout and the courage it took to step away from a successful senior photography business to pursue a path more aligned with her core values and passions.
    • The Art of Connection: Find out how Karen fosters deep connections with her clients, transforming their self-perception and celebrating their unique beauty through her lens.
    • Mastering Your Mind Circus: Karen introduces us to the concept of the 'Mind Circus' – navigating the tumultuous thoughts and emotions that come with entrepreneurship and learning to become the ringmaster of your own mental landscape for success.
    • Gratitude and Growth: Discover the role of gratitude in Karen's journey, how looking back at your achievements can fuel your forward momentum, and the importance of aligning your business with your personal values and lifestyle.

    This episode is a testament to the transformative power of photography, not just in the realm of high school senior or boudoir photography, but across all forms of this art. 

    Whether you're capturing landscapes, weddings, pets, or portraits, Karen's story highlights the universal themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the art of turning life's challenges into stepping stones for growth.

    For those inspired by Karen's story and eager to learn more about her work and insights, she has her own podcast, "The Mind Circus," where she'll delve deeper into the intricacies of our mental landscapes and how they shape our lives and careers.

    Connect with Karen: 


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    12 March 2024, 5:00 am
  • 39 minutes 32 seconds
    Embracing Rejection with Korina Joseph
    232 - Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast! This time, our host, Nicole Begley, sits down with the incredibly talented Korina Joseph, a pet photographer who has truly made waves in the industry.

    Korina's had her photography business for a few years, but since that virus which shall not be named her business has been on the back burner.  

    First from ‘Rona and then because she became a mom to an adorable little boy.  

    Her journey this year from extreme part-time to full-time professional is nothing short of inspirational, and she's here to share all the juicy details with us.



    What To Listen For:


    • Korina's Productivity: Not only is Korina juggling motherhood and her business, but she manages in schedule to still allow for slow mornings and walks in the woods with her dog each day.  #goals
    • Goal Setting and Smashing: Korina didn't just set ambitious revenue goals; she obliterated them in record time. Discover her secrets to setting and achieving lofty targets.
    • The Power of Community: Korina emphasizes the importance of building strong connections in the photography world and beyond. Learn how her network became her secret weapon for success.
    • Embracing Rejection: Facing rejection is a part of any business, but Korina shares how she turned potential setbacks into powerful motivators.
    • Creative Marketing Strategies: Peek behind the curtain at some of Korina's most effective marketing tactics that helped her business flourish.
    Korina's tale is a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and a little bit of creativity.

    Whether you're just starting out in photography or looking to take your business to the next level, there's a wealth of wisdom to be found in this conversation.

    So, grab a comfy seat, tune in, and prepare to be inspired.

    Connect with Korina



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    5 March 2024, 6:00 am
  • 37 minutes 39 seconds
    Fetching Multi-6 Figures with Ryan Erickson

    231 - Ryan Erickson takes us through his transformative journey from wedding photography to launching his mobile dog portrait studio, Fetch Photo Truck. 

    The pandemic prompted him to reassess his career path and follow his true passion for dog photography – a move that has certainly paid off!

     Ryan dives into the ups and downs of managing a mobile business and stresses the need for setting clear boundaries to keep a healthy balance between work and personal life. He also shares his marketing tactics. 

    However, a crucial ingredient to his remarkable success, which led to over $200,000 in revenue in just his first year as a pet photographer, is his unwavering belief in himself and his venture. 

    Throughout this conversation, Ryan unpacks the hurdles he encountered, the valuable lessons he picked up along the way, and his aspirations for the future. 

    He highlights the significance of self-confidence, generating leads, forging personal connections, and the art of making offers as fundamental pillars for entrepreneurial success.


    What to Listen For:

    • A Leap of Faith: Ryan's transition from capturing couples' special moments to focusing on the joy of pet photography.
    • The Mobile Advantage: Discover the freedom and challenges that come with taking your photography business on the road.
    • Setting Boundaries: Learn how Ryan maintains a healthy balance between his work and personal life, ensuring he doesn't get lost in the hustle.
    • Marketing Magic: Ryan's creative strategies for attracting clients, from market events to engaging social media contests.
    • -Believe to Achieve: The power of self-belief and the pivotal role it played in Ryan's success, pushing his revenue beyond the $200k mark in just his first full year.


    This episode isn't just a story; it's a beacon for anyone looking to pivot their career path, especially in the photography realm. Ryan's insights into the nuts and bolts of establishing and growing a mobile photography business are invaluable.


    So, if you're curious about how to turn your photography passion into a mobile success story or simply love hearing about people following their dreams, this episode is for you. Tune in and let Ryan's journey inspire your next move.

    Connect with Ryan


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    27 February 2024, 6:00 am
  • 34 minutes 4 seconds
    The Offline Photographer Ep. 3

    230 - We're diving deep into the heart of in-person marketing with our special series, "The Offline Photographer." Hosted by Heather Lahtinen, today's episode is all about the art of the pivot. Chatting with Laura Wombwell from Laura Wombwell Photography in Ontario, Canada, we're unpacking the big question: When is it right to shift gears in your business? 


    From unexpected teaching opportunities to the delicate dance of balancing multiple roles, Laura's journey is a testament to the twists and turns of entrepreneurial life. Grab your notebook, because this episode is packed with real-life lessons on navigating change, seizing opportunities, and the power of saying "yes" even when it scares you.


    What to Listen For

    • Unexpected Turns: Hear how Laura's quiet holiday plans turned into a whirlwind of opportunity and what it taught her about staying open to change.
    • The Art of Saying Yes: Discover the fine line between seizing opportunities and staying true to your business goals, and how to know when to dive in.
    • Balancing Acts: Learn how Laura manages her dual roles as a photographer and educator, and the surprising benefits this blend brings to her business.
    • Facing Fears and Doubts: Laura opens up about the internal battles entrepreneurs face when new paths emerge, from imposter syndrome to the fear of overcommitting.
    • Community and Growth: The importance of community in both teaching and photography, and how engaging with others can lead to unexpected growth and learning.


    This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a roadmap for any photographer facing crossroads in their business. Whether you're contemplating a new venture, juggling multiple passions, or just looking to inject some old-school, in-person magic into your marketing, Laura's story is a beacon of inspiration.

    Eager to learn more about mastering the offline marketing game and maybe even discovering your own pivot points? Tune in to this episode and join us as we explore the power of personal connections in growing your photography business.  

    Looking for even more support?  This is the type of coaching that happens inside of Elevate - the place to be if you want to grow your photography business. Discover Elevate here.


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    20 February 2024, 6:00 am
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