In today’s episode of The Profitable Photographer, I had the pleasure of chatting with Ruth Annan, and we had a rich and thought-provoking conversation about two very different topics: the importance of intentional diversity in our businesses and the pure joy of event photography. Ruth shares her insights on how embracing diversity can lead to richer experiences, deeper connections, and more interesting stories in both our personal and professional lives.
As a bonus, she shares how, as a business owner and a mother, she is able to rock both roles.
Here’s a glimpse of what we covered:
• Intentional Diversity: Ruth and I talk about how being intentional about diversity can transform our photography businesses, teaching methods, and overall approach to life. She encourages us to reach out and include people we might not interact with regularly, making our lives and work more vibrant and fulfilling.
• The Joy of Event Photography: We explore why corporate events can be both educational and profitable. Ruth’s successful business in corporate events, headshots, and video production showcases the potential of this niche, especially when combined with a diverse team and client base.
• Balancing Motherhood and Business: I investigate some of the challenges, solutions, and rewards while navigating life as both a businesswoman and a mother. She emphasizes that it’s okay to seek help and that integrating business responsibilities with family life can benefit everyone involved.
This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration for anyone looking to build a more inclusive and profitable photography business. I am honored to have had this frank conversation with a very inspiring and brilliant person.
“It’s like a train. It’s going to pick up steam. If you keep at it, the referrals, the ideal clients will come. Do good work and do right by people. You can do it.”
It’s true what they say about your gifts making room for you: At the tender age of ten, Chip Dizárd received a piece of technology that would change the trajectory of his life.
On Christmas Eve 1978, he opened a gift and fell in love with the magic technology could create. His Atari 2600 would open his mind to exploring things and creating memories that last a lifetime.
As the years have progressed, so has his gift. Chip has been able to work with schools, churches, and businesses to grow their influence in their local and global communities. Skilled in web development, videography, photography, education, and public speaking Chip has taken his passion for technology and made it his mission to teach others.
Our hostess Luci Dumas and Chip chat about finding your ideal client by “eliminating the worst and expanding on the best,” homing in on their interests and tastes, and knowing exactly where to find them. Chip also whittles the art of finding your niche down to three questions: What are you passionate about?, What are you good at?, and What drives your economic engine?
Finally, Chip speaks on his mission to promote diversity and inclusion via his personal brand as a wedding photographer, and encourages others in the industry to do the same in their own way.
The key to incorporating diversity and inclusion in your business successfully? For Chip, it’s all about keeping this reality in mind: They’re not buying our services. They’re buying how our services make them feel.
Key Topics:
Moving beyond having only friends and family as clients (4:10)
How to find your ideal clients (17:14)
Where to find your first few clients (24:50)
How to find your niche (30:48)
Diversity and inclusion in the event industry (38:15)
The challenge of “being noticed” as a woman or Person of Color in the event industry (50:57)
Chip’s parting words (58:17)
Luci’s wrap-up (59:27)
Resources:
The Ideal Client Checklist: Email chip@chipdizard.com and mention The Profitable Photographer
A big, exciting and maybe a little scary dream to have a successful, profitable and creative photography business doing exactly what you love for wonderful, grateful clients? Or do you want to bring your business to the next level of fun and profit.? If so, then this Podcast is for you.
For over 36 years, I have made a great living as portrait and wedding business, Luci Dumas Fine Photography, with no other source of income. No rich husband or lottery winnings, through the ups and downs of the industry and economy.
Now as a business coach with Insight Training for Photographers, I love love love to support photographers who want to do the same. This podcast is full of practical business info, and insights gained from my years in business, plus interviews with amazing people. My desire is to help you along on your joyful journey to success, however that looks to you.
