Running a profitable photography business is tough, but my guest in this episode proves that it can also be wildly profitable—if you take full responsibility for how you run it.
Meet Allison Tyler Jones, CPP, Master Craftsman, educator, photographer, author of four books, and host of the REWork Podcast.
I have to say that how she shares her vast knowledge and the foundations of a successful business, in a clear and super fun way, makes this a “must listen more than once” way.
According to Allison, is not your average photographer. She does not sell printable digital files, but she does run one of the most profitable portrait studios in the country. Instead of quick-turnaround sessions, she creates large-format wall art, family galleries, and custom albums designed specifically for her clients’ homes. Her signature style? A mix of lifestyle, commercial, and a little bit of chaos—what she calls “Art That Happens to Be Your Family.”
In this episode, we’re getting real about what it takes to build a thriving photography business, including:
How shifting to a value-based model attracts better clients and bigger sales
The importance of taking full responsibility for every aspect of your business
How setting clear client expectations leads to long-term success
Why staying in touch with your clients every year is the smartest way to have a solid business
Allison’s advice is direct, practical, and refreshingly honest. She’s here to challenge the way photographers think about pricing, client relationships, and profitability—because at the end of the day, success comes down to one thing: Owning it.
Bonus! Allison is giving away her Time-Blocking Tool—because let’s be honest, we could all use a little more time and a lot more structure. Grab it here!
Hey, fans of The Profitable Photographer Podcast! I’m bringing back one of my all-time favorite episodes from 2021 because it’s just that good. If you missed it the first time or need a refresher, this is your chance to hear from Hart Tan, an incredible photographer and entrepreneur from Singapore. Hart is the mastermind behind Tomato, one of the largest photography studios in Singapore, and he’s running a high-volume, seven-figure business he started 12 years ago.
Hart is not only an award-winning Master Photographer, but he also shares such valuable insights on building a business that’s successful, sustainable, and truly your own. In our conversation, Hart goes beyond photography and dives into what it means to craft a career that works for you—one that brings both success and happiness.
Here’s what we talk about:
Building your business like a house: The foundation is key, and it’s what gives you the freedom to grow.
Curiosity is your best tool: Always stay curious about what works and what doesn’t.
Marketing with intention: Test, measure, and adjust your strategies based on real results.
Personal responsibility and problem-solving: Success is a combination of creativity and taking responsibility for your actions.
Trust your gut: Not all advice fits. Learn to listen to your inner guidance.
Systems are essential: Have a system in place to make everything run smoother.
Hart’s wisdom is timeless, so if you’re looking to build a thriving business and a fulfilling career, this episode is a must-listen. He’s got a wealth of knowledge, and I know you’ll love what he shares.
Want to connect with Hart? Check out his video on how much to charge: Watch Here.
In this episode, I have an awesome chat with the super-talented Pete Coco, a successful headshot and portrait photographer. We dive into the nitty-gritty of starting your photography business, and yeah, it can be overwhelming. But Pete’s advice? Don’t worry—just start!
Pete specializes in headshots and portraits and is based in Garden City, New York, providing high-quality photography services to individuals from various industries, including business professionals, realtors, lawyers, doctors, actors, and models.
He also is a mentor and has a YouTube channel with 30,000 subscribers, where he talks about photography, gear reviews, and all sorts of things.
Pete shares so much valuable wisdom, including:
• The importance of finding a mentor who truly understands your vision.
• Staying passionate about the type of photography you want to do every day and creating work you love and want to be paid for.
• Embracing failure as a learning tool, instead of fearing it.
Pete also introduced us to his “CoCo Trio”—the perfect blend of work, business, and mindset. Mastering all three is essential for success. Plus, he drops some book recommendations like The Motivation Manifesto by Brendon Burchard, Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl, and the Tao Te Ching for extra inspiration.
His final gem? It’s never too late to start, and your photography doesn’t have to be the best in the world—it just needs to get started. You can catch Pete live at the Imaging Expo in Texas through Professional Photographers of America.
Bonus: Download any of Pete’s free videos, and he’ll share five of his all-time favorite portrait tips!
Hey, brilliant photographers! Today’s episode is all about kicking those mindset roadblocks to the curb with Jeff Brown, a very special human that loves to support people to become highly profitable. Let’s dive into the juicy details from our chat:
Background: Photographer, Author and mentor, Jeff started his photography career in the Royal Navy (yes, he is British) and has owned five photography companies of his own. t Plus, he’s shot over 750 weddings! Talk about skills. He’s on a mission to spread motivation and inspiration like confetti, folks!
Writing Whiz: Jeff isn’t just a pro behind the lens; he’s also penned four No.1 best-selling books for photographers.
Ambassador Extraordinaire: Not content with just conquering the photography world, Jeff’s also President of the British Institute of Professional Photographers, a brand and marketing ambassador for some heavy hitters like OM SYSTEM and much more. Talk about wearing many hats!
Mindset Magic: Ever heard of the saying, “What you believe, you can achieve”? Jeff’s all about that. Listen to his journey from failure and depression to living the life he loves.
Jeff dropped some serious wisdom bombs and steps to change your mindset. He suggests we…
set up a vision and type it up as if it is already done.
look at others that are successful to discover what is possible
read books, listen to famous people’s stories,
cultivate gratitude…write three things in the person, possession, and experience every day
be generous
limit your exposure to negativity
fear…challenge your fears and take their power away
He leaves us with this suggestion…Instead of sweating over your photography skills, Jeff reminds us to focus on our branding and perceived value. Wise words, indeed!
So, folks, if you’re ready to level up your mindset game and unleash your potential listen to the audio or watch the video.
In this episode of The Profitable Photographer, I am sharing some thoughts and strategies around money. Not the inner game or blocks or prosperity issues but some of the nuts and bolts about being in business.
You can listen on all the podcast platforms as well as my other 229 episodes or kick back and watch on the “You Tubes”. www.lucidumascoaching.com is a great place to check out what I am up to and offer.
Some of my tips include
1. Cash and income you might need to get started
2. How to set up 3 accounts in your business to help you stay profitable and not get caught cash poor at tax time
3. My perspective on paying for or sharing household responsibilities out of the family budget
Thanks in advance for following me here and podcast platforms.
Hugs! Luci
Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas’ Programs and Contact Info:
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.
