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 insights

Connect with Us:

• Website: vanessajoy.com

• YouTube: Vanessa Joy

Rate & 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!

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

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.