Episode Summary: In this heartfelt interview, Elena chats with Rebecca Bloomfield, a documentary family photographer in Connecticut, about her transformation from part-time passion to full-time business owner. Rebecca shares how enrolling in the Elena S. Blair Mastermind shifted her mindset, gave her clarity in her niche, and helped her build sustainable income with intention. From photographing schools to refining her documentary style, Rebecca's story is a beautiful reminder that building the business you want starts with believing that it's possible. Whether you're feeling unsure about investing in your business, struggling with pricing or packages, or afraid to niche down, this episode will remind you that growth is available, when you decide to go all in. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * How Rebecca went from four part-time jobs to full-time photographer * Why niching down into documentary family photography was both scary and empowering * The power of setting income goals and working toward them with intention * Ways to balance artistic fulfillment with client expectations * Why time-based pricing might be holding your business back Links & Resources: Rebecca's Website [https://rebeccabloomfield.com]Follow Rebecca on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/rebecca.bloomfield.photography/] Learn More About the Elena S. Blair Mastermind [https://elenasblair.com/the-elena-s-blair-mastermind] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [https://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode, Elena welcomes her first guest  to the Empowered Coaching Sessions, Jaime Bugbee King, a Portland-area family photographer and educator. Jaime shares her powerful story of transitioning from a burnt-out dental hygienist to a thriving full-time photographer and business coach. Together, they explore how investing in education, embracing a luxury client experience, and building a reliable lead-generation system helped Jaime replace her salary and step confidently into her role as a creative entrepreneur. Whether you're just starting out or feeling stuck in your growth, this conversation is a must-listen. You'll walk away with encouragement, tangible marketing tips, and a reminder that you're capable of building something beautiful and profitable on your own terms. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * Why mindset and identity work are foundational to building a successful photography business * How Jaime replaced her dental hygiene salary through intentional marketing and SEO * Tips for transitioning from side-hustle to full-time photographer, and later into educator Links & Resources: Jaime Bugbee Photography on IG: @jaimebugbeephotography [https://www.instagram.com/jaimebugbeephotography/] Jaime Bugbee Photo Coach on IG: @jaimebugbeephotocoach [https://www.instagram.com/photomarketingcoach/] Jaime's Education Website: https://www.jaimebugbee.com [https://www.jaimebugbee.com/] Apply to the Elena S Blair Mastermind [https://www.elenasblair.com/elena-s-blair-mastermind-application] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [https://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this heartfelt episode, Elena shares the story behind the creation and transformation of her signature Mastermind Retreats. From a modest gathering of 20 photographers in post-COVID Seattle to an industry-recognized annual event with over 80 attendees, these retreats have become a sanctuary for connection, creativity, and business growth. Elena walks us through the values, structure, and special moments that make the retreat unlike any other experience in the photography world—and invites you to envision your seat at the table. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * The origin story of the Mastermind Retreat and how it has evolved since 2022 * What makes this retreat different from other industry events * The intentional design behind the retreat experience: from styled shoots to print competitions * Why community and aligned business strategy go hand in hand * How to apply or join the waitlist for the next retreat Links & Resources: Apply for the next Mastermind [https://www.elenasblair.com/elena-s-blair-mastermind-application] Learn more about the Mastermind Program [https://elenasblair.com/the-elena-s-blair-mastermind] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [http://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this episode, Elena shares how to make fine art mini sessions a successful and sustainable part of your photography business. She walks you through her approach to creating minis that feel elevated, artistic, and aligned with your brand values—while also serving as a reliable income stream. Whether you're in a slow season or just craving a creative shift, this episode gives you the clarity and encouragement to run minis your own way. You'll walk away with practical tips for pricing, setup, branding, and marketing so that your mini sessions don't feel like a rushed afterthought, but instead a powerful tool to connect with ideal clients and keep your calendar full. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * How to structure mini sessions that align with a fine art brand * The importance of visual branding and intentionality in minis * How to price minis to make them worth your time and energy * Why mini sessions can be a great entry point for long-term clients * Mindset shifts around offering minis without diluting your brand Links & Resources: Free Fine Art Mini Session Class [http://elenasblair.com/free-fine-art-mini-session-class] ElenasBlair.com [http://www.ElenasBlair.com] for more free education. Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this episode, Elena shares the exact strategy she's used for over a decade to book out her photography calendar months in advance. Inspired by her own experience with her kids' summer camp selling out in minutes, she breaks down how you can implement the same urgency and structure in your business. By leveraging email marketing, client loyalty, and scarcity, you can create a reliable stream of bookings that sustain your business year-round—without burning out or chasing leads all year. This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you stop waiting for clients and start filling your calendar with intention. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * Why scarcity and exclusivity drive bookings * How to use your email list as your most powerful marketing tool * Why proactive booking beats reactive scrambling every time * How to turn past clients into repeat, year-after-year customers * A proven strategy to fill your calendar during Black Friday Links & Resources: * Black Friday Booking Class [https://courses.elenasblair.com/p/black-friday-booking] – Under $30 * Free Email List Building Guide [http://elenasblair.com/3-step-guide-email-list] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en]Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/]Visit my Website for More! [http://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this quick and impactful episode, Elena shares her favorite time-saving strategies for photographers looking to streamline their workflows and reclaim their time. From creating email templates to batch working and outsourcing editing, this episode is packed with actionable ideas to help you stop wasting time on tasks that aren't serving your business. If you're ready to run a more efficient and profitable photography business, this one's for you. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * How to save hours each week by using email templates and scheduling tools * The power of batch working and why it's a game-changer for creatives * Why outsourcing editing or using AI tools can significantly increase your profit margins * Practical advice on getting support at home so you can treat your business like a business Links & Resources: Time Saving Tips [https://elenasblair.com/time-saving-tips-for-your-photography-business-photography-business-advice/] Link to HoneyBook [https://share.honeybook.com/tKu4b] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [http://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this heartfelt episode, Elena reflects on her 15-year journey as a photographer and the lessons she wishes she had known when starting out. From embracing the slow growth of success to the importance of mentorship, marketing strategies, and honing your craft, this episode is filled with wisdom for photographers at any stage of business. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by comparison or unsure where to put your focus, Elena's perspective will guide you toward building a grounded, sustainable, and meaningful photography business. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * Why success takes time and why that's okay * The power of ignoring comparison and focusing on your path * How mentorship can rapidly accelerate your growth * Why social media isn't everything (and what to focus on instead) * The underrated power of email marketing and SEO * Why school photography can transform your income quickly * How practice and creativity are foundational to your success Links & Resources: Photography Business Roadmap Freebie [http://elenasblair.com/family-photography-business-roadmap] Marketing the Right Way [https://elenasblair.com/what-i-wish-i-knew-before-starting-my-photography-business/] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [http://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this episode, Elena shares how school photography—done differently—can create consistent income, boost visibility, and fuel growth in your family photography business. She breaks down the difference between outdated, stiff school portraits and the fine art, boutique model that has helped her scale to a multiple six-figure business. If you love working with children and want to eliminate the slow season, this episode opens the door to a strategy that can radically transform your business. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * Why school photography is more than just a side hustle * How boutique school portraits attract your ideal family clients * Systems that make high-volume photo days smooth and profitable * How school photography boosts SEO and fills your calendar year-round * Real income potential (from $5k to $300k+) with real examples Links & Resources: School Photography Quick Start Guide – Free Download [http://elenasblair.com/step-by-step-guide-to-get-started-with-fine-art-school-portraits] School Photography Course – Full System & Templates [https://courses.elenasblair.com/l/pdp/the-new-schooled] www.elenasblair.com [http://www.elenasblair.com] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en]Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/]Visit my Website for More! Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this energizing episode, Elena walks you through a step-by-step strategy to prepare for a thriving photography business in 2026. Whether you're just getting started or want to scale from part-time to full-time, this episode is packed with guidance on goal setting, marketing, mindset, and pricing. Elena shares what it really takes to plan for a profitable year ahead—and why now is the perfect time to begin laying the groundwork for the success you're craving. This is your invitation to take yourself seriously, set real goals, and make a plan to grow with intention. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * The first thing every photographer must do before 2026 begins * Why you need an income goal (even if you're part-time) * How to calculate your shoot volume based on your pricing * The two marketing strategies that are more powerful than social media * What role mindset plays in your profitability * How to use the end of the year to build momentum for the new one Links & Resources: Apply for the Elena S Blair 5-Month Mastermind [https://www.elenasblair.com/elena-s-blair-mastermind-application] Email Marketing Starter Guide [http://elenasblair.com/3-step-guide-email-list] Photography Pricing Guide for Profitability [http://elenasblair.com/free-simple-pricing-guide] Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [http://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

In this episode, Elena breaks down the buzz around "passive income" and gets honest about what it really means for photographers. She shares her own experience building multiple income streams and offers a practical look at how you can start earning money in your sleep—without needing a massive following or viral content. If you've been wondering whether you're ready to start creating offers that generate revenue on autopilot, this bite-sized episode is your sign to begin. What You'll Learn in This Episode: * What passive income actually is—and what it's not * Why photographers are uniquely positioned to create profitable digital products * How to take the first steps toward building a sustainable passive income stream Links & Resources: 👉 Download Elena's free 7-page Passive Income Workbook [https://elena-s-blair-photography-inc.kit.com/bedb95e86f] 👉 Join the Course Creation Class [https://courses.elenasblair.com/l/pdp/course-creation-autopilot-sales-for-photographers] (starting January 5th) Connect With Me: Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography/?hl=en] Join my Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] Visit my Website for More! [http://www.elenasblair.com] Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps the podcast reach more photographers like you. 💛

This week, I'm tackling one of the most hotly debated topics in the photography industry: Should you make your pricing public on your website? It's a conversation that's been going strong for over a decade—and I'm here to tell you exactly where I stand. Spoiler alert: I believe your pricing should absolutely be visible. In this short and powerful episode, I'll share the hard truths, the mindset shifts, and the strategy behind public pricing—and why it can actually elevate your brand. Key Takeaways: 1. Hiding Your Pricing Doesn't Make You High-End * Your prices being a mystery doesn't make your brand more premium. * If you're not booking, it's likely a value issue—not a money issue. 2. Public Pricing Respects Everyone's Time * Clients want clarity, not confusion or a sales pitch. * If someone can't or won't pay your rates, they'll self-select out—and that's a good thing. * Transparency builds trust and filters in dream clients. 3. Strong Brands Don't Rely on Price Secrecy * Focus on building a consistent, meaningful body of work and an incredible experience. * If your business feels luxury and professional, your pricing becomes a non-issue. * Simplicity is a mark of expertise. Don't make it complicated. Final Thoughts: You don't need to hide your prices to book more clients. If anything, it may be hurting your inquiries and wasting your time. Trust in your value, simplify your client process, and let your website do some of the work for you. Yes, your pricing should be public. Period. Resources & Links: 👉 Download my FREE Pricing Guide [http://elenasblair.com/free-simple-pricing-guide]– Learn how to price for profit and stop second-guessing your rates. 👉 Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography] for more mindset + business tips 👉 Join my Photography Education Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/]

Summer is here and if you're a photographer and a parent, you already know the rhythm of life just got turned upside down. In this episode, Elena gets real about the myth of balance, especially during summer break, and what to focus on instead. You'll walk away with five powerful mindset and workflow shifts that will help you stay grounded, keep your business moving forward, and fully enjoy your family time without burning out or feeling like you're failing at everything. This is your summer survival guide for running a business while juggling camps, curfews, and quality time with your kids. Because guess what? Balance isn't the goal presence and harmony are. 🔑 Key Takeaways: * Balance is a myth let go of the pressure to do everything perfectly all at once. * Shorten your to-do list: Focus on one meaningful task per day. * Work in short, intentional bursts: Even 90 focused minutes can be powerful. * Protect your presence: Be all-in where you are—whether that's with your business or your family. * Revisit your summer goals: Choose realistic, smaller goals that feel achievable. * Let it be both: You can love your kids and still want space to create and work. That duality deserves to be honored. 💬 Final Thoughts: You're not doing it wrong just because summer feels messy. Let go of chasing balance and give yourself permission to be present instead. When you honor where you are and what you need, both your family and your business will thrive. 🔗 Links & Resources: * Join my Photography Education Facebook Community [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/] * Join Elena's 3 Day Marketing Challenge [http://elenasblair.com/3-day-marketing-challenge] * Listen to More Empowered Photographer Episodes [https://elenasblair.com/the-empowered-photographer-podcast]

Starting from scratch? This one's for you. In this episode, I'm laying out the exact steps I would take if I were starting my family photography business all over again no fluff, just the real deal. Whether you're brand new or need a reset, this episode will help you build a profitable business with confidence and clarity. 📌 What You'll Learn: * Why your mindset is the first thing that needs to change * How to niche down and stand out in a crowded market * The fastest way to build a high-quality portfolio (even without paying clients) * Why pricing for profit from day one is non-negotiable * The parts of your online presence that actually matter (hint: it's not social media) * How to create an incredible client experience that keeps people coming back * Why you need a lead generation system ASAP (and what that can look like) * How to scale your offers smartly without burning out 💡 Final Thoughts: You don't need to wait to be "ready." You need a plan, confidence, and the willingness to show up like the CEO of your business. This episode is your roadmap. 🔗 Links & Resources: 👉 Apply for the Elena S. Blair Mastermind [https://elenasblaireducation.hbportal.co/public/651c3c23218e2d0025feefb7] 👉 Download the Free Photography Business Roadmap [http://elenasblair.com/family-photography-business-roadmap] 👉 Grab the Free Pricing Guide [http://elenasblair.com/free-simple-pricing-guide]

In this heartfelt episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on lifestyle newborn photography what it really means and why it's such a powerful, safe, and natural way to photograph new babies. As a former NICU nurse turned professional photographer, I bring years of experience and deep passion to this genre. You'll learn what sets lifestyle newborn photography apart from traditional posed sessions, what baby-led posing actually looks like, and why your role as the photographer is to guide, not force. If you're craving a more meaningful and stress-free way to document the newborn season, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: 1. Lifestyle Newborn Photography Is Natural, Not Forced * Focuses on baby-led posing—safe, comfortable, and organic positions. * No stiff props, awkward composites, or elaborate setups. * Real moments over staged perfection. 2. You're Still the Expert—Just with a Softer Touch * You guide the session, pose the baby naturally, and direct light and emotion. * A gentle but confident workflow still matters. * You don't need props to create impactful images. 3. The Home Is the Heart of the Story * Sessions are done in the family's space no studio lights, no distractions. * Photos capture personal, emotional details: the nursery, the rocking chair, those 2 a.m. memories. * Natural light and real settings create timeless images. 4. Newborns Are Perfect Just As They Are * No need to alter or manipulate connection and simplicity are key. * Lifestyle images tell the truth of the moment in a meaningful and artistic way. Resources & Links: 👉 Download the FREE Lifestyle Newborn Posing Guide [http://elenasblair.com/newborn-posing-guide] – Includes 5 of my favorite safe, baby-led poses. 👉 Follow along on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography] for more lifestyle newborn inspiration 👉 View my lifestyle newborn portfolio [https://www.elenasblairphotography.com/newborn-photography-seattle]

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, I'm sharing the true story of how saying yes to one photography conference back in 2012 completely changed the course of my life and business. From NICU nurse and exhausted mom of two, to full-time photographer, educator, and keynote speaker this is the journey that sparked it all. If you've ever wondered whether you belong in this industry or questioned what's possible for your photography career, this episode is your sign to go for it. 📌 What You'll Learn: * Why I didn't believe photography could be a full-time career (and what changed that) * How attending WPPI opened my eyes to a new level of possibility * The power of surrounding yourself with industry peers and mentors * How in-person experiences can expand your mindset and build confidence * Why just one brave yes can change everything * What conferences I recommend for photographers (including a FREE one!) * A behind-the-scenes look at how I went from attendee to speaker 💬 My Favorite Quote From This Episode: "You are always just one bold step away from growth." 📝 Final Thoughts: If you've been craving clarity, connection, and expansion—go to a conference. The right room will change your mindset, your business, and maybe even your entire life. Don't wait until you feel 'ready.' Just say yes. 🔗 Links & Resources: * 🎤 BILD Conference [http://www.bildexpo.com/?ref-SPKELENAB]– June 18, 2025 in NYC (FREE to attend!) * 🎟️ Get on the waitlist for the Mastermind  [https://elenasblair.com/the-elena-s-blair-mastermind] * 📩 DM me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography] if you have questions 

In this refreshingly honest solo episode, I'm sharing one of the most powerful truths behind my success as a photographer and it's probably not what you expect. You might even laugh when you hear it, but it works. We're talking about the mindset shift that helped me grow from a brand-new photographer making $2K a year to running a thriving, multi-six-figure photography business with a fully booked calendar and a rock-solid reputation. Spoiler alert: it all started with acting like I'd already made it. Inside this episode, I'll give you three practical steps to stop waiting for permission and start embodying the successful photographer you're meant to be. If you're stuck in that "someday" mindset, this one's for you. KEY TAKEAWAYS: * Success doesn't happen by accident. If you're waiting for the "perfect time" or for someone to tell you you're ready, you're holding yourself back. * Mindset is everything. Adopting the identity of a successful photographer before you feel like one will change how you show up and people will notice. * Take bold action before you're ready. Even if your income is tiny or your confidence is shaky, show up like a pro. * Consistency wins. The most successful photographers don't wait for the right moment — they act, daily. * Your homework: Start acting, speaking, marketing, and shooting like you've already made it. Don't wait. Decide. Do the work. FINAL THOUGHTS: You don't need anyone's permission to succeed. The only person who can decide you're ready… is you. So, what would you do today if you already were the most sought-after photographer in your area? That's your next move. LINKS & RESOURCES: 🎓 Ready to fully embody the successful photographer within you? The Elena S Blair Mastermind is now open for applications! Next cohort starts July 29, 2025 — and there are only 5 spots left. Apply here [https://elenasblaireducation.hbportal.co/public/651c3c23218e2d0025feefb7/1-Inquiry_form] We'll chat face-to-face on Zoom. No pressure, just connection. Download my photography business roadmap [http://elenasblair.com/family-photography-business-roadmap] 🎧 Love this episode? * Hit subscribe so you don't miss the next one. * Leave a 5-star review to help more photographers find Empowered.

It's the season finale of The Empowered Photographer Podcast! In this episode, Elena wraps up Season 3 with a heartfelt message that just might change the way you approach your photography forever. If you've been chasing the "perfect" look the right light, the trendy edit, or the sharpest shot this episode is your reminder that the real magic lies in how your work feels, not just how it looks. Whether you're feeling stuck, burned out, or disconnected from your work, Elena shares a mindset shift that will reignite your passion and set your business apart: focus on the emotion behind the image. She also leaves you with a powerful, game-changing challenge to take into your next session.  Key Takeaways: * A beautiful photo isn't just technically strong it makes people feel something. * Stop obsessing over your style and editing; start tuning into how it feels to create your images. * If you feel something when you shoot, chances are your viewer will too. * Consistency in your brand comes from emotional clarity, not just a uniform aesthetic. * Homework: Choose 3 emotions you want your work to evoke and bring those into your next session. * Emotionally resonant work leads to a more meaningful and sustainable business.  Final Thoughts: Photography is more than a visual art,  it's a feeling. When you create with emotion at the center, you not only connect with your clients in a deeper way, but you also protect yourself from creative burnout. So next time you shoot, pause and ask yourself: How do I want this to feel? 🔗 Links & Resources: Apply for The Mastermind (next cohort starts July 29, 2025) 👉 Click here to apply [https://elenasblaireducation.hbportal.co/public/651c3c23218e2d0025feefb7/1-Inquiry_form]  Free Posing Guide for Photographers 👉 Grab your free guide [http://elenasblair.com/8-family-poses-that-always-work] 📣 Don't Forget: If you loved this season, please leave a 5-star review — it helps more photographers like you find the show and feel empowered in their journey.

In this episode, I'm sharing the unexpected lesson I took from the recent TikTok ban scare and why it was the reminder we all needed. If you're relying solely on social media to grow your photography business, this episode is your wake-up call. I'm breaking down what you actually own in your business, what you don't, and how to create a long-term marketing strategy that keeps working no matter what happens online. Key Takeaways: 1. Social Media Is Rented Real Estate * You don't own your Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook accounts. * They can change, glitch, or disappear without warning—and there's no customer service to help you recover it. * The algorithm isn't responsible for your success—you are. 2. Focus on What You Can Control * Your website and your email list are platforms you own. * SEO (Search Engine Optimization) gets you in front of people actively searching for your services. * Email marketing gives you a direct line to your audience with far better visibility than social media. 3. Diversify Your Marketing Strategy * Social media is a tool, not the whole toolbox. * Your marketing should include SEO-optimized content and a consistent email strategy. * Real business growth happens off social media. Final Thoughts: If the TikTok ban showed us anything, it's that putting all your eggs in the social media basket is a dangerous game. It's time to focus your energy on platforms that are within your control—your website and your email list. This is how you build a resilient, long-lasting photography business. Resources & Links: * Download my free guide to get started with email marketing [http://elenasblair.com/3-step-guide-email-list] * Follow me on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography] * Join my Facebook group for photographers [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/]

In this powerful episode, I'm breaking down one of the most emotionally charged and commonly misunderstood topics in the photography industry: pricing models. There's a myth floating around that there's only one right way to price your services—and it's just not true. Whether you're all-inclusive, sales-based, or somewhere in between, profitability has less to do with how you price and more to do with what works for you, your time, and your ideal client. I'm walking you through the mindset shifts, real math, and client-focused strategies that help you stop guessing and start owning your pricing with confidence.  Key Takeaways: * There's no one-size-fits-all pricing model—profitability is about knowing your numbers. * Selling digital files is not "less than." They're a high-value product that clients want and need. * Time is your most valuable currency if your pricing model doesn't honor it, it's not sustainable. * Your pricing structure must align with the lifestyle, needs, and expectations of your ideal client. * Before copying someone else's model, understand your actual cost per session and profit margin.  Final Thoughts: It's time to ditch the pressure to price like someone else. Your pricing should reflect your strengths, your lifestyle, your client base, and your actual time investment. You don't need a trendy model—you need a sustainable one. Remember: confident pricing leads to a thriving business.  Links & Resources: 📄 Download the FREE Pricing Workshee [http://elenasblair.com/free-simple-pricing-guide]t to calculate your real profit per session 🎧 Listen to more episodes  [https://elenasblair.com/the-empowered-photographer-podcast] 💬 DM me on Instagram @elenasblair_photography [https://instagram.com/elenasblair_photography] to tell me what pricing model is working for you

In this heartfelt episode, I'm taking you back to the exact moment that transformed everything about how I approached newborn photography. If you've ever felt misaligned or unsure about the posed newborn style, this episode is for you. I'm sharing my personal journey of going from traditional posed sessions to discovering what truly felt aligned—and how that shift exploded my business and redefined my purpose as a photographer. If you're curious about lifestyle newborn photography or baby-led posing, this might be the sign you've been waiting for. Key Takeaways: 1. Misalignment Is a Clue, Not a Failure * I was running a successful business in posed newborn photography but felt emotionally and creatively drained. * The work didn't feel like me, and I constantly questioned whether I belonged in the newborn niche. 2. A Personal Moment Sparked My Clarity * When photographing my own baby, I realized just how unnatural posed setups felt to me. * That experience revealed that I was working against my instincts as a mother and creative. 3. Rebranding to Alignment Changed Everything * I made the bold decision to completely rebrand into lifestyle newborn photography. * I created a baby-led posing system rooted in safety, connection, and natural moments. * That's when my business took off—and I've now taught this method all over the world. Final Thoughts: If posed newborn photography doesn't feel aligned for you, you're not alone—and it doesn't mean you're not meant to be a newborn photographer. There is another way. Lifestyle newborn photography allows you to lead with connection, authenticity, and trust in your instincts. It's time to explore a version of this work that lights you up instead of draining you. Resources & Links: 👉 Download my free Newborn Posing Guide [http://elenasblair.com/newborn-posing-guide] – Five safe and simple baby-led poses, step-by-step. 👉 Check out my Lifestyle Newborn Portfolio [https://www.elenasblairphotography.com/newborn-photography-seattle] – See what this style looks like in real sessions. 👉 Follow me on Instagram for more tips + inspiration [https://www.instagram.com/elenasblair_photography] 👉 Join my Facebook group for photographers [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823216771316654/]