Have you heard of the “pricing deadzone”? It’s what can happen when you transition from being too expensive for the affordable clients, but not priced highly enough for luxury clients to think you’re qualified! If you’ve ever experienced this OR you’ve  just generally been struggling with your inquiries and bookings right now, then I just want you to know…You’re not alone!Many photographer have been experiencing a down in inquiries and bookings (for a few different reasons I’ll be diving into in this week’s episode)... But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do about it! To prove this to you, I’ve brought in fellow photographer and marketing & sales coach Alora Rachelle, where we talk pricing, mindset, energetics, current trends, why bookings have been down and so much more! Tune in now!RESOURCES + LINKS:Alora Rachelle’s Wedding CEO programAlora Rachelle’s The Wedding CEO: Photography PodcastSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

 OME doors close shut for an entire year on Thursday October 26, 2023 at 11:59pm EST 🕚Click here to join the OME community > https://courses.saramonika.com/outsourcing

In today’s Outsourcing Made Easy student success story, I’ll be chatting with Tracey about how she and her husband were able to rediscover their love of shooting and gain back 20 hours per wedding thanks to outsourcing.Tune in to discover…Tracey’s background, what drew her to Outsourcing Made Easy, and her life before getting support in her business [0.58]. [2.48]The ONE big mistake most photographers make when planning their tasks ahead of busy season [6.58]The burnout Tracey and her husband experienced before outsourcing and how they found the perfect editing support close to home [7.40]How you could be *so* much closer to getting support in your business than you think and the importance of creating momentum when you’re just getting started [11.40]How many hours Tracey has been able to save already just two months into her outsourcing journey [14.33]How much Tracey invested in her editor [17.34]The transferable skills and mindset shifts Tracey learned from Outsourcing Made Easy [20.57]Tracey’s final words of advice for any photographers looking to get started with outsourcing, but who are scared to make the investment [30.01]What you *need* to hear if you still think it’s better or more appealing to your clients to do everything yourself in your business [32.58]RESOURCES + LINKS:Click here to sign up for Outsourcing Made Easy (doors close for an entire year on Thursday 26 October at 11.59 PM ET!) Connect with Tracey at https://www.blackmoremedia.net/home + https://www.instagram.com/blackmore.media/ Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

In today’s Outsourcing Made Easy student success story I’ll be speaking with Nichole, who’s already saved 120 hours with the support of her VA in just 6 months, and 24 hours in just 4 weeks with the support of her editor thanks to outsourcing.Tune in to discover…Nichole’s background as a brand + portrait photographer and what drew her to Outsourcing Made EasyNichole’s experience hiring a VA on her own vs. her experience hiring a VA after going through OME [1.38]How Nichole saved 120 hours thanks to her VA over the past 6 months! [4.58]How much Nichole invested to get this support from her VA and how you can (ethically) find the right support for your budget overseas [7.32]Nichole’s experience outsourcing her editing and how she found the perfect person to support her close to home [14.24]How many hours Nichole has already saved outsourcing her editing (even though she only started this a few weeks ago!) [16.32]A snapshot of the stress Nichole was under before she began outsourcing and the toll it was taking on her body [20.03]What Nichole’s life looks like now and her final advice for anyone considering joining Outsourcing Made Easy [22.23], [28.11]RESOURCES + LINKS:Click here to sign up for Outsourcing Made Easy (doors close for an entire year on Thursday 26 October at 11.59 PM ET!) Connect with Nichole at  https://www.nicholemchphotography.com/ / https://www.instagram.com/nicholemchphotography/ Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Today, I’ll be diving into the compound effect of the choices you make in your photography business and the money you’re leaving on the table if you choose NOT to outsource (prepare to have your mind blown!)Tune in to discover…Why it’s so important to listen to your desires and to reverse engineer your success [1.13]My teaching philosophy and what you can expect from me if you join OME [2.51]The *official* manifesto of the OME community (don’t miss this!) [4.32]The compound interest you’ll experience through outsourcing, plus two metaphors that will totally shift your mindset around getting started [8.07]The illusion of control: what you NEED to hear if you feel like you have to do everything yourself or if you’ve ever considered throwing in the towel altogether [12.44]Questions to ask yourself when you feel like giving up and my personal journey out of burnout [18.31]My average full time take-home income now (while working part-time hours) [20.59]Three different paths you could take with outsourcing to inspire and show you what’s possible (this will blow your mind!) [22.05]Your next steps if you’re ready to make a change, stop capping your bookings and create your dream lifestyle (and why it’s 100% okay to do it scared!) [33.20] RESOURCES + LINKS:Click here to sign up for Outsourcing Made Easy (doors close for an entire year on Thursday 26 October at 11.59 PM ET!)Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

She’s baaack! Join me and my Outsourcing Made Easy student, Katie, as we catch up a year after our last podcast episode together. We’ll be diving into how her business has evolved since we last spoke, the support she gets in her business now, and her advice for photographers looking to leave burnout behind. Plus, she’ll be giving us a *very* special behind-the-scenes tour of the second (!) studio she’s been able to open up in her business thanks to the power of outsourcing! Tune in to discover…Where Katie is now in her business, a full year since our last podcast episode togetherWatch/ listen to Katie spontaneously teach me bachata dancing and rap a busta rhymes song word-for-word – just because she can! [0.54], [4.08]Why Katie decided to transition out of wedding photography to full-time boudoir photography [6.07]How letting go of perfectionism allowed Katie to grow her business faster and open up a second (!) studio [10.51], [14.54]Why protecting your energy and avoiding burnout is the KEY to being able to market your photography business effectively [18.10]Katie’s journey to hiring virtual AND in-person assistants, plus the tasks they support her with [19.30], [20.53]Katie’s journey to hiring an associate photographer and a house organizer [21.38], [25.40], [31.35]How to get OUT of survival mode and into possibility thanks to your brain’s reticular activating system [34.37]The limiting beliefs Katie struggled with before getting support in her business vs. the expansion that she’s been able to experience now [36.35]Katie’s final advice for photographers who are looking to start outsourcing, but are afraid to take action [41.15]A behind-the-scenes tour of Katie’s studio to inspire you to know what’s possible for you (hint: if she can have it, so can you!) [45.05]RESOURCES + LINKS:Check out my first podcast episode with Katie hereJoin my upcoming FREE live masterclass: The Four Secrets To Having More Time and Financial Freedom While Avoiding Burnout as a Photographer Get on the waitlist for the return of my signature, once-yearly program: Outsourcing Made Easy (doors re-open on Monday, October 23, 2023!)Connect with Katie at @boudoirbykatiemarie , @katiemariephotography_ and katiemariephotography.ca Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Who doesn’t love a good mashup episode? ;)Today I’m interviewing 3 of my Outsourcing Made Easy students who are in the work right NOW getting support in their businesses. Some have only just started, some are a little further down the track. My hope is that by sharing a wide range of stories, you’ll be able to see all the amazing possibilities that open up to you once you start outsourcing (and spoiler: just how quickly you can start seeing results!)Tune in to discover…How Amy saved 393 (!) hours during her last wedding season outsourcing her culling, blogging, slideshow creation, editing, and more to her VA [6.31]How much Amy paid her VA for this support [11.29]How Amy’s quality of life has changed since outsourcing [15.49]What you *need* to hear if you feel guilty posting on social media while your clients are waiting for their galleries [23.05]Meet Marie: discover what she’s currently getting support with and how she’s been able to save 604 (!) hours in just 4 months since starting her outsourcing journey [27.22]How much Marie paid her VA for this support [31.28]The unlearning Marie had to do about getting support overseas (and what you need to know if you may be feeling the same way) [33.08]Marie’s advice for anyone on the fence about starting their outsourcing journey [40.29]Meet Crystal: discover how she went from deep burnout to saving 30-50 (!) hours a week thanks to outsourcing [44.15], [50.37]How much Crystal paid her VA for this support [51.07]Crystal’s hesitations before signing up for the course (listen closely to this if you’re a family / portrait / or any other kind of photographer that doesn’t shoot weddings!)  [56.48]Crystal’s quality of life now [59.16]Crystal’s advice for anyone on the fence about starting their outsourcing journey [1.00.56]RESOURCES + LINKS:Discover the 4 secrets to having more time + financial freedom while avoiding burnout as a photographer! Join my upcoming FREE live masterclass at: https://courses.saramonika.com/4-secrets-to-freedom Outsourcing Made Easy returns soon, but only for a limited time! Get on the waitlist so you don’t miss this year’s enrollment at:https://courses.saramonika.com/omewaitlist Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

I’m so excited to welcome my OME student AND past-wedding client, Nicole, to the podcast this week to talk about her journey into photography and how she was able to save 660 (!) hours during the 2023 wedding season thanks to outsourcing. Tune in to discover…Nicole’s journey to becoming a photographer and how she was able to quit her 9-5 and go full time after just 3 months [1.45]What Nicole *really* thought about the fact that I outsource when she first met me and how it impacted her experience having me as her wedding photographer [7.42]Why it’s important to take responsibility for your process as a photographer and to make your clients feel taken care of every step of the way (+ the ONE thing that makes this 10 times easier) [9.36]Why Nicole joined Outsourcing Made Easy and her journey to getting support in her business [16.28]How Nicole saved 660 (!) hours through outsourcing during the 2023 wedding season [23.49]How much Nicole spends on support in her business and where she found her editor [28.20]Why hiring overseas is not only ethical, but a positive, impactful and fulfilling experience for everyone involved [31.45]What Nicole’s quality of life looks like now (hint: it’s dreamy!) [37.00]Nicole’s advice for anyone on the fence about starting their outsourcing journey and why you shouldn’t wait until you’re burnt out and in the thick of it to take action [40.20], [46.15]RESOURCES + LINKS:Connect with Nicole at @nicolejohnsonphoto and download her free resources at https://nicolejohnsonphoto.com/ Ready to learn the 4 secrets to having more tIme + financial freedom while avoiding burnout as a photographer? Join my upcoming FREE live masterclass at: https://courses.saramonika.com/4-secrets-to-freedom Outsourcing Made Easy returns soon, but only for a limited time! Get on the waitlist so you don’t miss this year’s enrollment at: https://courses.saramonika.com/omewaitlistSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

It’s official – AI is here to stay! So I thought it’s about time I dive in and test out some of the tools available to us as photographers…, to help YOU figure out if they can help you get back your time in an effective way, without compromising the quality of your work. Tune in to this week’s episode to get my honest, unfiltered thoughts!You’ll discover…What’s working for me and what’s not working for me when it comes to using AIWhether I think we can trust the output that AI is currently capable of [4.35]How I found culling with AI [6.29]How I found editing with AI [7.33]What you should know about using these tools if you use a lot of dodging and burning brushwork in your editing [8.07]Why I’m still using a human editor and how you can experiment with using AI in tandem WITH your editor [9.03]The question I encourage you to ask yourself before deciding to go down the AI rabbit hole + the importance of maintaining a long-term mindset (don’t skip this quick calculation!) [12.03]Why it’s important to make decisions according to your values and my decision to hire an editor from Ukraine [14.32]Why you don’t have to choose between cost-effective support and having a human editor support you (ethically!) [16.32]The endless possibilities that open up to you in your life and business when you learn the SKILL of outsourcing, rather than just relying on ONE tool (such as AI) [19.32]A quick overview of a FREE masterclass I’m hosting very soon to help you with all of this and more! (Don’t miss this!) [23.58]RESOURCES + LINKS:Click the link below to sign up for my FREE masterclass: The 4 Secrets to Having more TIme + Financial Freedom While Avoiding Burnout as a Photographersaramonika.com/masterclassSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Ever toyed with the idea of getting an in-person assistant? Then this week’s episode is for you! Join me as I share how I found my first home assistant locally here in Canada, plus how you can apply these same principles to get fast and effective support in YOUR business (whether virtually or in-person). Tune in to discover…Why I decided to look for an in-person home assistant and the tasks I wanted support withWhere I found our PERFECT-fit assistant and why you should never listen to the nay-sayers or assume you won’t be able to find your dream person [6.00]How we’re finding our assistant 3 weeks into working together and how she’s already saved us 54 (!) hours in housework so far [10.45]Exactly how much we’re paying our assistant and how many hours she gives us each week [12.06]Bonus: how you can write off your assistant as a business expense [12.59]Why it’s important for your assistant to know your “why” and the impact they’re creating in your life [13.54]What you *need* to hear if you think getting a personal assistant is still a long-way off for you (hint: you’re closer than you think!) [17.33]The ONE question you need to ask yourself when deciding whether to bring in support in your business [18.39]The energetic shift that happens when you commit to “buying back your time” [21.21]Inspiring stories from my past Outsourcing Made Easy Students about how they found their perfect-fit virtual assistants (and how you can too!) [25.17]The return of Outsourcing Made Easy! What you need to know (+why doors will ONLY be open for 4 days this year) [28.19]RESOURCES + LINKS:Get on the waitlist for Outsourcing Made Easy HEREGet my 3-Hour Post Wedding Workflow Checklist for FREE hereSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Today, I want to bust one of the most damaging and persistent myths I see holding so many talented photographers back from achieving the growth and freedom they deserve in their lives and businesses – the idea that outsourcing makes you any less of an artist.For years I also struggled with this belief, until a series of events and experiences shifted my perspective entirely. It’s my hope that this episode inspires these same mindset shifts in you, too!Tune in to discover…Why getting support in your business is the ultimate competitive advantage in your photography business [4.24]The advice you *need* to hear if you’re in constant “push” mode in your business right now or you’re regularly working 12-15 hour days [8.20]My “f*ck the fear” moment that totally changed my outlook on getting support with my editing (plus the exact 3 words that will put your clients’ minds at ease should they ever ask about your outsourcing process) [9.54]Discover what one of my past wedding clients *really* thought about the fact that I outsource and how it impacted her wedding experience with me [15.04]How I was able to get rid of 70% of my working time from behind a computer thanks to outsourcing (+a free resource where you can see how I did this for yourself) [16.01]The biggest benefits outsourcing can bring to your clients (and to you!) [16.35]The average timeframe my students are able to turn around their weddings to their clients, thanks to outsourcing [17.12]Why outsourcing allows you to become MORE of an artist in your business, not less [22.49]An important announcement you won’t want to miss! [25.29]RESOURCES + LINKS:Get on the waitlist for Outsourcing Made Easy HEREGet my 3-Hour Post Wedding Workflow Checklist for FREE hereSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Worried about the dip in inquiries/bookings right now and the impact of the recession on your photography business? Then this week’s episode is for you.I’m going to be diving into some mindset shifts and strategies you can use to weather this time of uncertainty, plus how you can unblock and rewire your subconscious mind for positive action through the power of RRT.Tune in to discover…The current mood among the photography community and whether I think you should be concerned about the dip in inquiries + bookingsA metaphor that will totally shift how you think about the ups and downs in your photography business [3.11]An introduction to RRT and how it can help you shift your beliefs in times of uncertainty [7.03]An overview of the conscious and subconscious mind, why we feel fear, and it’s impact on our creativity (if we let it get the best of us) [10.57]The conversation to have in your mind with fear when you want to kick it to the curb [21.15]A powerful LIVE guided RRT exercise to help you unblock your subconscious mind (don’t miss this!) [25.22]3 game-changing questions to ask yourself to generate more money in your photography business ASAP [32.55]Hope this episode helps put your mind at ease, my friend! As ever, my DMs over on IG are always open at @saramonikaphoto.Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Ever feel overwhelmed by the pressure to create beautiful images in a time crunch on wedding days? Struggle to perform when you feel stressed out or when things don’t go according to plan? Not sure how to respond when your couple, family members, or wedding guests rush you along? Then this week’s episode is for you, my friend! In this quick but powerful mini episode, I’ll be sharing some actionable tips and mindset shifts that helped me create images I’m proud of at a recent wedding (despite moments of pressure that came up along the way) – and how YOU can too.Tune in to discover…How to create photos under pressure: the “aha” moment I experienced during a  recent wedding day shootThe close call I had with a time-conscious groom and how I navigated the situation calmly (plus the one thing you should *never* say if the same thing happens to you!) [3.00]The mindset shift that allowed me to shift into an energy of “challenge accepted”, rather than feel stressed or overwhelmed – and how I was able to create some of my most creative, experimental work as a result [6.31]Some examples of shots I was able to get which were outside of my comfort zone, plus the strategy I used to know when to play it safe vs. when to take a risk (if you take any tip away from this episode, let it be THIS!) [7.54], [11.01]The importance of leaning into pleasure instead of pressure in your life and business [12.36]How to switch your mindset to pleasure in moments of pressure [14.05]RESOURCES + LINKSCheck out the photos I mention in this episode over on my Instagram right here! Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

This week, I’m doing something slightly different! I’m sharing a raw, unfiltered audio diary about the creative rut I’ve been going through over the past handful of months, in the hope that my story can support and inspire you on your own journey. Tune in to discover…The ups and downs I’ve been experiencing in my business since January and what I’ve learned along the way Why it doesn’t help to resist the way you’re feeling when a down cycle hits and some of the behaviors I turned to insteadThe guided meditation that clicked everything into place for me and the power of neutrality in times of polarity The turning point in my thinking and how following my intuition (+ a very special house viewing!) pulled me out of my rut A vulnerable share about the pressures I sometimes feel being an online educator and how I overcame them (this part is a must-listen for anyone struggling with being visible in their business!)Listening to my instinct for space – how changing up the feng shui of my office gave me a much needed boost and why the same principles might be helpful for you tooI hope this episode helps you breathe a sigh of relief if you don’t have things figured out in your own life and business, my friend. As usual, I’d love to hear your takeaways from the episode, big or small… Hit me up on IG @saramonikaphoto and let’s chat!RESOURCES + LINKS:Climbing Your Inner Mountain And Self-Transformation Meditation/TalkSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Ever wondered how to be a dog photographer? Then today’s your lucky day! Join me and Nicole Begley, pet photographer and educator, as she shares everything you need to know about working in this exciting and lucrative niche!Tune in to discover…An introduction to Nicole, her work and her mission [2.11]The question on everyone’s minds… How PROFITABLE is pet photography? (hint: you may be pleasantly surprised!) [6.50]How to get dogs to behave the way you want them to during sessions [11.29]The importance of operant conditioning and positive reinforcement for getting the results you want, while still keeping dogs and (owners!) happy [17.04]Tips for getting great expressions from the dog you’re photographing [21.25]How to make sure your sessions are safe for everyone involved [27.33]Nicole’s biggest tips for taking your photos from “meh” to scroll-stoppingly good! [33.22]Tips for engagement sessions where you’re photographing dogs AND humans [39.19]Nicole’s final tips and resources to help you dive deeper into pet photography! [42.21]RESOURCES + LINKS:Hair of the Dog PodcastHair of the Dog AcademyNicole’s InstagramSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Today, we’re diving into the world of Dubsado with my special guest: fellow photographer, and workflow automations magician, Meg Cooper. So if you’ve been thinking about elevating your client experience and freeing up your time with a powerful CRM like Dubsado, then this episode’s for you!Tune in to discover…How Meg got into the world of workflow automations [3:16]How you can use automation to elevate your client experience and to reclaim your time [7:47]What is a CRM? Meg’s overview + how to use one in your photography biz [13:49]Meg’s advice if you have this common concern around automation, plus her top tips for making automation feel personal and heartfelt [17:28]The 3 foundational workflows Meg recommends setting up first in Dubsado [23:04]The secret to managing payments *effortlessly* with automations [26:06]How to balance personalization and efficiency to give your clients the white glove service they deserve [27:23]Meg’s tips for sprucing up your canned emails [30:04]The difference between actions and triggers in Dubsado, plus Meg’s favorite actions for managing your client interactions with ease [32:36]Meg’s 3 favorite triggers to simplify your workflow and eliminate repetitive tasks [43:23]How you can experience more of Meg’s workflow magic: entry-level resources + personalized support to save you tons of time [52:33]RESOURCES + LINKS:Connect with Meg at: Dubsadoworkflowswithmeg.com / IG: @megcooperworkflows Free worksheet Meg mentioned: www.dubsadoworkflowswithmeg.com/worksheetI would love to hear what you thought of this episode and how it helped you! Send me a DM on social!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Today, I’m diving into the ins and outs of artificial light with Eden Strader, so you can confidently take on any lighting situation that comes your way, uplevel your skills, and charge premium prices for your work!Tune in to discover…My limiting beliefs around shooting with artificial light before speaking with Eden [0.45]Why every wedding photographer NEEDS an understanding of artificial light (even if you prefer natural light photography) [7.18]The link between your technical skill and your ability to charge $10k+ packages [8.01]The biggest misconceptions around flash photography [9.04]An unexpected “make or break” moment Eden had earlier in her career where not knowing flash photography could have had dire consequences (don’t let this happen to you!) [9.34]What Eden wishes every photographer knew about flash photography, plus the world of creative possibilities that opens up when you know how to create your own light [14.59], [19.44]How you can still follow a documentary storytelling approach while using artificial light (and it not be intrusive or distracting for your subjects) [16.33]Eden’s go-to lighting setups at weddings and some low-effort, creative ways to use flash photography you may not have considered (which will enhance your client delivery) [20.36]What to know if you’re worried about keeping a consistent look in your portfolio while experimenting with artificial light [28.02]Eden’s gear recommendations and why you do NOT have to pay top dollar to get started with artificial lights [30.10]Why you don’t necessarily have to be a gear-oriented photographer to get joy out of learning artificial light photography + how it can relieve SO much stress on wedding days [34.28]An exciting FREE way to continue learning from Eden about artificial light photography! [36.06]RESOURCES + LINKS:Join Eden’s Artificial Light Masterclass at: edenstrader.com/saramonika Eden's Gear: https://www.amazon.com/shop/edenstrader/list/LV8JQS47411N?ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_dBasement wedding Eden referenced: https://edenstrader.com/2017-10-19-danielle-and-mark-fall-wedding-at-riverside-farms-pittsfield-vermont/All shot in a tiny dark room: https://edenstrader.com/ballet-bridals-bridal-inspiration-for-a-spring-wedding-with-the-lovely-ave/Flash details + group portraits inside after rainfall! https://edenstrader.com/bianca-and-rae-modern-wedding-at-lord-thompson-manor-connecticut/Natural light with flash: https://edenstrader.com/beehive-floral-co-eden-strader-workshop/Mixed natural and artificial: https://edenstrader.com/studio-noire-noir-engagements-salt-lake-city-katie-and-jack/Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

This week I’m doing something a little different and inviting my amazing therapist, Jaime Armstrong, to the podcast! She’ll be sharing more about RRT (Rapid Resolution Therapy), EPI (Emotional Pain Intervention), and the neuroscience-based techniques that can help you reprogram your mind and stress-proof your brain. Prepare to be amazed!Tune in to discover…My personal experience with Jaime and how her unique approach to therapy has completely shifted my perspective [1:40]Making “Shift” Happen: Discover more about Jaime, her mission, and the modalities & techniques she uses in her practice [7:04]Jaime’s “bottom-up approach” for rewiring your brain + an eye-opening metaphor to help you understand your brain’s programming [8:32]Rethinking traditional therapy: why you no longer need to wait *years* to see results with your mental health [14:00]How to create immediate and lasting change in your life from a brain-first perspective [17:51]Jaime’s advice to help us overcome self-doubt and “comparisonitis” as photographers [18:52]The foundation behind RRT that will explain every experience you’ve ever had(!) + why the idea of the “left brain” & “right brain” is incomplete [27:17]Why a mental health diagnosis is NOT a lifelong sentence, or a reflection of who you are (+ what you should know instead) [32:22]The only 3 reasons your mind gets stuck + a low-effort, but powerful technique to help you combat stressful moments [41:22]What happens inside our brains when we meditate and why it matters [46:30]Listen in on a mini LIVE therapy session where Jaime helps me overcome a deep-rooted fear that has often held me back while shooting (do you struggle with this too?) [49:05]How to stay connected with Jaime and join her brain-changing live event! (think TED talk meets standup comedy!) [1:11:50]RESOURCES + LINKS:Join Jaime’s live event, “An Evening with My Therapist” on June 10, 2023! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/an-evening-with-my-therapist-featuring-jaime-armstrong-rp-tickets-609786787697 Connect with her on Instagram @therapywithjaime Come say hi to me on social! I would love to hear what you thought of this episode and how it helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Want to avoid burnout as a photographer? Tune into this visualization exercise to help you do so ❤️I know life can get so busy and sometimes all we need is to pause for a moment and ask ourselves “wait am I on track and aligned with my deepest desires and values? Or did I get off track somewhere?”It’ll help you get clarity on the type of lifestyle you want for your self in the near future! Be sure to watch/listen because this could be the key that unlocks a life full of time freedom, creative, freedom, and financial freedom that you desire.I channeled this message to help you do that 💛Also, doors to OME close soon on May 18th 11:59pm EST and will closed shut until the end of the year 🚪 Get your spot here now > https://courses.saramonika.com/outsourcing

Surprise! Outsourcing Made Easy is BACK! But only for a short time… Check out this week’s episode for an inside look into an OME coaching call with one of my past students, Ashley. Plus, listen to the end to hear inspiring success stories of past OME alumni! Tune in to discover…How to get your systems in place NOW to avoid burnout this busy season [0:05]How Outsourcing Made Easy is different from other courses and why it’s a perfect fit for parents or *ultra-busy* photographers [1:23]All the support waiting for you inside the OME community + key course information to help you make your decision [4:09]The *magic* that happens when OME students trust the process and take action (+ a loving pep talk for you if you’re on the fence!) [5:13]The perfect metaphor for those of us that seem to never feel “ready” to make a change in our lives and businesses [7:00]My coaching call with Ashley where we discuss her biggest (and oh-so-relatable) blocks around hiring her VA [13:09]A simple fix you can implement today to solve this common business dilemma [16:30]How to un-bottleneck your business, create happier clients, and bring in more $$$ [19:46]  How to break the endless cycle of “playing catch-up” in your business and avoid burnout [22:56]Final process tips for Ashley you can use to outsource your culling [25:31]Tia’s story: how she went from overwhelmed and burnt-out to *thriving* while doubling her revenue (in 1 year!) with OME [29:40]Jess’ story: How she used OME to create more time freedom in her life and to finally reclaim her precious weekends [32:06]Katie’s story: how her personal life completely transformed through creating more freedom in her biz with OME [33:15]Amy’s story: How she’s shooting more than ever, but working fewer hours overall thanks to OME [35:19]Final thoughts: how to tell if OME is right for you! [38:48]After listening, if you’re ready to take the freedom-loving path to more time, more creativity, and more abundance, while you create the photography biz of your dreams…then be sure to follow the link below to join Outsourcing Made Easy : )I can’t wait to welcome you to this incredible community of badass photographers!SaraRESOURCES + LINKS:Join Outsourcing Made Easy while doors are open: May 15th–18th, 2023! https://www.saramonika.com/freedomAnd if you have any questions about OME, just shoot me a DM on Instagram at @saramonikaphoto  

This week, I’m so excited to share a mini film with one of my star students, Jennifer Jacquot, about her experience with my flagship program: Outsourcing Made Easy For Photographers. Tune in to discover…Jennifer’s background and her life before Outsourcing Made Easy [10.24]What inspired Jennifer to join OME, limiting beliefs she had before she got started, and what happened when she took the plunge [11.45], [13.12]A snapshot of Jennifer’s life now and how her business operates [13.57]Jennifer’s thoughts about the price of OME and the return on her investment [16.32]Why the OME community is unlike *any* other photography community, plus the level of support you can expect to receive when inside the group [18.01]The biggest change Jennifer has seen in her life and in herself since taking OME [18.41]Jennifer’s final words of advice to any photographer considering OME [19.43]Everything you need to know about the return of OME: including key information & dates for doors open/close (hint: it’s a very short window!) + how to reach out to me for 1-1 support with your decision (if you want it!) [2.03], [20.36]RESOURCES + LINKS:Join the waitlist for Outsourcing Made Easy For Photographers today at saramonika.com/freedom Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

This week, I’m joined by my past student Lena! We’ll be diving into how she was able to gain back 60 hours a month, grow her business with referrals, and have more time for her family thanks to the support of her VA.Tune in to discover…– How Lena got ahead of the game to avoid burnout in her business [6:22]– Limiting beliefs that were holding Lena back from getting her first VA, vs. what actually happened when she took the leap [10:25]– How Lena chose her *dream* virtual assistant (hint: it wasn’t based on experience!) [11:33]– The winning streak Lena is currently experiencing in her business and the number #1 thing that’s allowed her to increase her referrals over the past few months [13:42]– All the tasks Lena gives her VA to maximize her time [15:57], [33:35]– REVEAL: exactly how much $$ Lena invests in VA support for her business (it’s not as much as you might think!) [21:09]–The biggest benefit Lena has experienced from hiring her dream VA… and the ripple effect it can have on your life and business [28:34]– How Lena’s been able to claim back 60 (!) hours a month thanks to her VA [30:22]– Lena’s message to fellow control-freaks feeling resistance about letting go of tasks in their business (I used to be one too!) [36:35]– Lena’s final advice for any photographer that’s still on the fence about hiring a VA [47:09]RESOURCES + LINKS:Join me in my upcoming workshop, Five Days To Your Dream (And Affordable!) Virtual Assistant at saramonika.com/vaFollow Lena on Instagram: @lenachristinephoto Her website: https://www.lenachristine.com/Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

This week I’m deep diving into some of the most common myths & misconceptions around getting virtual assistant support in your photography business that are stopping you from achieving the success and freedom you crave.Tune in to discover…– Myth #1 when it comes to hiring a virtual assistant [0:51]– The surprisingly affordable way you can get started with VA support in your business (these numbers may shock you!) [2:09]– Myth #2 when it comes to hiring a VA (I see this one ALL the time!) [5:00]– Some of the draining tasks you may still be doing that are stealing away your creative energy and joy [5:50]– Whether you should get VA support if you’re still in a 9-5 (+ my promise to you!) [8:52]– Myth #3 when it comes to hiring a VA (this one’s juicy!) [9:21]– A sign you might be fooling yourself in your business and how to overcome it [10:32]– The limiting belief holding you back from the life you dream of – let’s release it! [11:58]– What I always do to make sure I’m evolving WITH my business [14:19]– The simple conversation to have with yourself to get crystal clear on what you actually want your days to look like [15:34]– Myth #4 when it comes to hiring a VA [18:35]– The two paths you can take in your business right now [22:12]– A way to get the fast track and swipe my step-by-step process for getting VA support(for only $33!)  [25:00]RESOURCES + LINKS:Join my upcoming workshop, 5 Days To Your Dream (And Affordable!) Virtual Assistant at saramonika.com/vaSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Buckle up! Because this week we’re going *deep* into the magic of hiring a virtual assistant in your photography business… and why it’s truly the missing ingredient to every photographer’s long-term success ;)Tune in to discover…What a virtual assistant is and the kinds of tasks they can assist you with [3.10]The admin task I easily spent 100 (!) hours on before realizing I could get cost-effective support (don’t let this happen to you!) [5.04]Why I began looking for support and the first tasks I decided I wanted help with [6.47]The sneaky, but oh-so-simple, reason you might be feeling stuck right now in your business and common limiting beliefs to avoid as a photographer [8.37]Benefit number #1 of hiring a VA [12.53]Benefit number #2 of hiring a VA (this one might surprise you! Hint: it relates to cost…) [16.50]Mistakes I made when hiring my first VA and how to avoid them yourself [19.51]Why you may be paying yourself minimum wage in your business without realizing! [22.14]Benefit number #3 of hiring a VA [24.16]The responsibility you OWE to your clients that you may not be fulfilling right now…(some tough love!) [24.49]A simple litmus test for whether or not you should still be doing certain tasks in your business [27.24]The importance of flow state for getting what you want out of your life and business [29.13]The tasks that drain me (which I outsource) vs. the tasks that light me up and energize me (which I still do) and how to figure out the same for yourself! [31.16]Advice you NEED to hear if you’re afraid of letting go of tasks in your business [35.22]A powerful story and visualization exercise to help you overcome your limiting beliefs (straight from my heart to yours!) [38.41]Benefit number #4 of hiring a VA [47.04]An inside look at the two main ways I market my business, plus how to make marketing fun (even if you hate it right now!) [47.47]Benefit number #5 of hiring a VA [50.00]Closing thoughts, my message to you right now if you’re struggling, and my biggest mission in this world! [53.10]A very special invitation to get even more support from me (for only $33!) if you’re looking to take action on your dreams sooner, rather than later [57.17]RESOURCES + LINKS:Join the waitlist for my upcoming workshop at saramonika.com/vaSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Resistance! We all feel it in our businesses, especially when we have to do tasks that don’t light us up or come easily to us… So what are some practical tips for flowing through these tasks with more joy and less stress? Tune into this week’s episode to find out ;)You’ll learn…Why you may be feeling more resistance in off-season [3.42]The one thing I always remind myself which never fails to motivate and inspire me when I’m feeling stuck [5.30]A reframe about creative work you didn’t know you needed in your business [6.33]One of my favorite quotes about overcoming resistance, plus practical examples of how and when this might show up for you as a photographer [8.39]How to listen to your higher self while shooting (vs the little voice inside that keeps you “safe”) [9.46]The biggest thing getting in the way of you creating systems and workflows in your business [11.48]My personal moments of resistance and how I overcome them [14.30]Other, lesser-known signs that resistance is trying to mess with you [15.42]How I flow, not push, through resistance when it arises – plus my secret hack to help you do it too! [18.24]The questions to ask yourself when resistance arises and a reading from one of my favorite books to inspire you on your journey [29.51]RESOURCES + LINKS:Books mentioned:The War of Art, Steven PressfieldJourney to the Heart, Melody BeattieSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

This week, I have a very special guest on the podcast – my dad! We’re going to be diving into an important, but often overlooked topic: lens calibration. Whether you’re brand new to this service or it’s been on your radar for a while, we’ve got you covered! Consider this a whistle-stop tour of everything you need to know to get this ticked off your to-do list with as much ease and as little stress as possible, so you can get back to taking amazing photos (that are always in focus!).Tune in to discover…How my dad inspired my approach to documenting wedding days and my photography mission [4.10]Why calibrating your lens is SO important, even though most camera stores still don’t offer this service [10.03]Why each lens needs to be separately calibrated to every camera body you use [12.22]How to know WHEN to calibrate your lenses and how regularly I calibrate mine [13.47], [19.36]A deep dive into focus and example scenarios of things that can go wrong when your lenses aren’t calibrated properly [16.35]Why you should consider calibrating new lenses as well as tried and true favorites [17.56]How environmental factors affect your lenses and why wedding, portrait, and wildlife photographers need to prioritize lens calibration the most [20.06]An answer to whether or not you need calibrated lenses with a mirrorless camera (and why) [22.09]Firmware updates – what they are and why you absolutely need to do them on your camera gear (don’t worry, it’s super easy!) [23.30]How the camera brand you use affects calibrating your lenses and the camera brand you may want to avoid from a lens calibration perspective [26.09]How long a standard lens calibration appointment should take and what you can expect from the process [27.36]Tips for buying lenses and the lenses I have personally invested in over my career [28.47]My number #1 hack for getting the best lenses, without paying the hefty price tag [31.06]How to calibrate your own lenses if you’re not ready to invest in a lens calibration service just yet, plus how much the tools will cost you [35.44]How to find lens calibration services in your area [38.19]RESOURCES + LINKS:For lens calibration services in the Ontario area, visit https://darexstudio.com/ Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Surprise episode alert! This week, I’m sharing an impromptu episode I recently recorded with my friend and fellow entrepreneur, Kelsey Reidl, about the natural ups and downs of running a business.As most of us move full-speed ahead into 2023, we thought now would be a good moment to slow down, reflect and – let’s face it – share some REAL talk about the struggles we all face as entrepreneurs in the different seasons of our lives and businesses. Tune in to discover….Why I hit pause on the podcast and took a much needed sabbatical from my business over the winter break [1.27]Cold water swimming – why Kelsey and I decided to take the *plunge* and the unexpected benefits it can have on your energy levels and your health [9.33]Some REAL talk about the ups and downs of business, our fears and doubts, and how we navigate them [12.22]An example of a “down” period I recently experienced and how I moved through it [14.57]The shift Kelsey is now experiencing after 2 years of being in overdrive in her business [18.16]The most important question you can ask yourself if you’re feeling stuck and how to listen to your inner voice [19.52], [57.21]Ways I’ve been hiding in my business since the pandemic and why I’m DONE playing small in 2023 (fellow photographers – if you’re also doing any of the things I mention here, take note!) [23.51]Why being your authentic self is a PRACTICE [35.24]The importance of “first principles” thinking if you feel like you’re doing things on autopilot in your business [37.25]Asking for help – why so many of us avoid it, HOW to get better at it, and the importance of community to your long-term success [41.16]A 14-year-long emotional block I recently overcame and how it’s changing my approach to life in 2023 [47.06]Why we should think less of “ups and downs” and more of “ebbs and flows” in life and business [49.37]How to have more “upswing” moments in life (even when you feel like everything’s going wrong) [52.48]A must-watch Netflix documentary which will change your perspective towards life, plus the “string of pearls” analogy that will help navigate tough moments [58.26], [1.01.06]The only 3 things you *really* need to maintain your lifeforce and your energy [1.02.51]How to practice listening to your intuition, even if the concept is alien to you [1.05.28]Our closing advice for anyone experiencing hardship right now [1.08.00]A powerful free meditation you can listen to on all the themes discussed in this episode [1.10.48]I hope you enjoy this special one-off episode and stay tuned for more Shine + Thrive episodes coming your way VERY soon!SaraRESOURCES + LINKS:Connect with Kelsey at kelseyreidl.com or @kelseyreidl on InstagramSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphoto

Your most frequently answered questions about outsourcing and my Outsourcing Made Easy program for photographers answered! 🥰🙌🏻Doors close TOMORROW Oct 12 at midnight for an entire year, so don’t wait on this. Sign up at saramonika.com/freedom

I LOVE a good student success story and this one with Katie Silva, one of my Outsourcing Made Easy students, gives me all the feels! Come on a journey with us to discover how Katie was able to transform her life and business through OME these past few years, plus her advice for starting your own outsourcing journey (whatever that may look like for you!)...Tune in to learn…Katie’s pre-Outsourcing Made Easy journey – from leaving her government job, to Covid cancellations in 2020, to discovering boudoir photography, to opening her own studio [10.21]A snapshot of Katie’s life at her most overwhelmed, and how she was able to move through her fear and throw herself into outsourcing [17.06], [20.47]Why looking for a “magic pill” won’t work if you’re feeling burnt out right now and the *real* secret to sustainable, long-term success as a photographer [22.42]A deep dive into all the things Katie now outsources and her learnings along the way [25.38]How Katie hired an in-person assistant to maximize her time on shoot days and stay firmly in her zone of genius (+ keep her clients even happier!) [29.00]Katie’s most stubbornly-held false belief around outsourcing, which she has now overcome (and how you can too!) [31.59]A handful of the pursuits Katie now channels her new-found energy into and how her relationships have changed for the better thanks to OME [39.59]The number #1 thing you NEED to hear if you think paying someone else to do something you “could” technically do yourself is a waste of money (and why it’s a sure-fire way to keep yourself in burnout city) [36.51]Katie’s favorite parts of OME and the importance of a strong, supportive community throughout your outsourcing journey [43.54]What happened when two of Katie’s Tik Toks went viral and McDonalds slid into her DMs… (yup, for reals!) [47.52]Why it’s NEVER too early (or too late!) to get on the outsourcing train [49.34]Katie’s final words for anyone considering Outsourcing Made Easy <3 [56.34]RESOURCES + LINKS:Join Outsourcing Made Easy and take your first step towards more time freedom, creative freedom and financial freedom in your life today: saramonika.com/freedom Katie’s women’s only Facebook group: Untamed SocietyInstagram: @boudoirbykatiemarie & @katiemariephotography_Website: katiemariephotography.ca Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way.

Most underpaid + overworked photographers are going through the days, weeks, months, years reactively instead of proactively, and in most cases it can lead to burnout, resentment, loss of love for their craft, depression, anxiety, health issues, relationships suffering, and the list goes on (sadly) 💔I want you yo be honest with yourself right now. Are you an underpaid and overworked photographer? Meaning you are not making as much money as you need/want, and you’re consistently hitting exhaustion over and over again?If you are, please take a moment of self-care and listen/watch this live. It’s pretty much a bonus podcast episode that will really help you get clarity on how to get out of this cycle! 💛In today's live I'm going to walk you through some question you can ask yourself that will help you make decisions that are more aligned with your values and priorities + share with you how you can love the day to day reality of your dreams 💛I also share more details of what you will learn in OME and how much support along with the support of fellow bad-ass driven photographers can change the trajectory of your life this year + beyond to becoming a liberated photographer that has an abundance of time + financial freedom 🙌🏻✨❤️saramonika.com/freedomSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

In this bonus episode, Emily shares how she cut 56 full working days from behind her computer while shooting 30 weddings this year!She is one of my Outsourcing Made Easy students who signed up for OME in October 2021, and she was able to create these results for herself in less than a year! Imagine where you could be a year from now if you commit to finally making a change and stop the cycle of burnout + exhaustion in your life + business. Hit play to get all the juicy deets of Emily's outsourcing journey!Doors to OME are closing soon on October 12th, 2022 and won't re-open until fall of the 2023, so get your smart outsourcing workflows setup in your business in time for next season!Enroll in Outsourcing Made Easy here > saramonika.com/freedomRESOURCES + LINKS:Emily's Instagram: @emilymccrackenphotographySay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Guess what? I’m shaking things up this week and giving you a behind-the-scenes look inside a coaching call from my Outsourcing Made Easy program!Consider this your perfect, no-strings-attached, sneak peek into what it’s like to be coached by me…plus witness for yourself all of the amazing insights, learnings, and transformations that take place inside of our epic OME container ;)Tune in to discover…How an OME coaching call works, from 1-1 hot seat coaching, to spontaneous moments of connection, to extra mini trainings and more…The key difference between photographers that successfully outsource vs those that don’t [6.40]Different outsourcing scenarios in practice (including ones from my own business!) [10.30 and throughout]Real-time feedback from OME students in the process of outsourcing and how it’s going for them [14.13]An epic 1-1 hot seat with one of my OME students, Jess, covering themes like increasing your income, releasing control, setting boundaries, and shifting limiting beliefs [17.46]A future-pacing exercise you can steal and use right now to help you manifest your goals [32.31], [51.45]Why it’s important to look at your business like a machine (rather than a baby!) and powerful tips to help you stay consistent on your outsourcing journey [55.11]If, after listening, you decide that you want to be a part of this year’s cohort of badass, self-led photographers making strides towards the life of their dreams, then be sure to join Outsourcing Made Easy via the link in the show notes below :) I can’t wait to welcome you to this incredible community! Sara RESOURCES + LINKS:Join Outsourcing Made Easy and take your first step towards more time freedom, creative freedom and financial freedom in your life today: saramonika.com/freedomSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

This is perhaps one of my most important podcast episodes to date… So many – too many – photographers are struggling with chronic burnout right now. It’s hands-down the biggest problem facing our industry today. And while it can be tempting to simply press on and push through when you’re in the eye of the storm, if nothing changes, then nothing changes!So if you’re feeling burnt out right now - if you know something has to change - then I encourage you to really sit with this episode, let it sink in…then take action! I promise you, your future self will thank you for it <3Tune in to discover…My own journey from burnt out, overworked photographer to time-rich, part-time CEO [1.28]Why working hard does NOT automatically equal “success” and why you should never settle for anything less than the life you want [3.30]The difference between being *proactive* and *reactive* in your business [5.26]A (mini!) student success story about the positive ripple effect that outsourcing can create in your life and business [8.18]A loving pep talk for you if you know you need to make a change, but feel unsure where to start (this one’s particularly relevant for all my fellow parents out there!) <3 [12.18]A step-by-step breakdown of *everything* you need to know about my flagship program, Outsourcing Made Easy, including a sneak-peek inside the student portal and ALL the modules (← you won’t want to miss this!) [15.34]An overview of the support calls, coaching and community inside OME [23.52]A powerful visualization exercise to help you confidently take your next best step [30.39]I hope this episode helps you to know that your current situation does NOT have to be your future reality, my Shine + Thriver. If you’re ready to make a change and join Outsourcing Made Easy, then I’m here with arms outstretched! Simply click the link in the show notes below to join ;)RESOURCES + LINKS:Join Outsourcing Made Easy todaySay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

This week’s episode is a juicy one, so let’s get straight to it! I’m interviewing one of my students from my Outsourcing Made Easy program, Tia Abbott, about how she was able to go from a place of severe anxiety and burnout to now spending quality time with family and friends and pursuing her many passions on the regular. Tune in to discover…A snapshot of Tia’s life before Outsourcing Made Easy and the struggles she was facing [12.30], [20.11]How OME helped lift years of anxiety off Tia’s shoulders, plus the kinds of activities she now enjoys on a daily basis (completely guilt-free!) [8.29], [13.59]The energetic 180° that can happen when you finally break free of the cycle of burnout in your business [14.57]The tasks Tia now outsources and how much time it saves her every week [16.39]How Tia got over her fear of the unknown to hire her first VA (and spoiler: why it was so much easier than she expected it to be) [23.23]How much Tia pays for her VA and her verdict on hiring overseas talent [30.07]The unexpected perk that outsourcing your editing creates, beyond saving time (perfectionists, this one’s for you!) [36.57]Why outsourcing is addictive and task ideas you can give your VA in slow season [42.42]Tia’s new passion project that she can now pursue thanks to outsourcing, plus the impact her new lifestyle has had on her mental health and her relationships [43.49]Why outsourcing and your client experience are fundamentally linked (whether you realize it or not) [49.51]The domino effect and exponential growth that happens when you take the time to set up systems and get support in your business [51.34]Tia’s advice for not getting stuck in “student mode” and how OME gave her the fast track she had been waiting for [56.53]Tia’s final message for anyone considering Outsourcing Made Easy [1.04.54], [1.10.21]RESOURCES + LINKS:Join my upcoming free masterclass, The Four Secrets To Having More Time and Financial Freedom While Avoiding Burnout as a Photographer at saramonika.com/masterclassConnect with Tia: https://www.instagram.com/tialoryssaphotography/ Art Of Gratitude Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/artofgratitudepodcast/ My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

This week’s episode has a special place in my heart and, warning: there will be tears!  I’m reflecting on my journey from being a burnt-out and overworked photographer, to now shooting 32 weddings this year, working part-time hours, all while being a new mom and still making my full-time dream income... And most importantly, I’m going to show you how this is possible for you too!You’ll discover…An overview of my journey so far from overworked, underpaid photographer to time-rich, part-time CEOExactly how many hours and days a week I currently work, including wedding bookings and turnaround times [4.44]My projected revenue for this year working part-time hours, but still making the same full time income I made last year! (plus the number #1 tool that allowed me to do this) [7.42]Why there’s no such thing as “too good to be true” in life and business and the mindset to adopt when processing confronting emotions [10.25]The importance of knowing what season of life you’re in and planning accordingly [11.54]The joke all overworked photographers always tell in busy season and what we can do to heal damaging beliefs in our industry [26.37]A day-by-day breakdown of my current weekly schedule, including which tasks I do and which ones I outsource [30.32]Why cutting down on your wedding bookings is the worst (!) thing you can do if you’re burnt out and overworked right now [36.01]A reading that completely broke my heart and changed my perspective about my time, which might just be the thing you need to hear today (warning: you may cry!) [39.27]Why it’s never too late to start working smarter not harder in your business and why your pain can be a compass to a better path [44.12], [21.55]An exciting free resource to help you with all the themes discussed in this episode [47.59]What an ultra-marathon runner and sledding can teach you about finding peace! (A closing story to inspire…) [54.11]RESOURCES + LINKS:Join my upcoming free masterclass, The Four Secrets To Having More Time and Financial Freedom While Avoiding Burnout as a Photographer at saramonika.com/masterclassSay hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

This week, I’m chatting with one of my Outsourcing Made Easy students, Shannon Hastings, about how she was able to proactively design the life and business she wanted through the power of outsourcing.Tune in to discover…A snapshot of Shannon’s life before outsourcing and what drew her to OME [4.57], [16.25]Shannon’s “take what you need” approach to OME and the importance of deep focus on one thing at a time (especially when you’re burnt out) [10.00]My tips for gamifying outsourcing and making it fun! [10.15]The first thing Shannon outsourced in her business, how she brought on board her first hire, and how many hours she now saves [23.18]The powerful reframe you need to hear if you think that letting go of editing means “letting go of your art” [28.58]Why every business owner in the world needs to outsource at some point to reach the next level in their business [32.00]Signs you might still be stuck in an “employee mindset” in your business and why it’s so important to work smarter, not harder [37.24]How Shannon’s creative energy and output has increased thanks to outsourcing, (plus the importance of having space to dream in your business) [42.06]The outsourcing circle of doom in photography and how NOT to fall into the income-cap-trap [43.49]The question you *need* to ask yourself if you’re struggling with whether or not to outsource, plus the importance of reverse-engineering what you want from your life and business [45.45]Why it’s important to adopt an investors mindset when it comes to outsourcing [54.01]RESOURCES + LINKS:Join the waitlist for Outsourcing Made Easy, returning this October! https://saramonika.com/waitlist Connect with Shannon at https://www.instagram.com/ess.and.elle/?hl=en My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

This week I’m going deep into a topic that all photographers need to talk more about… income!Yes, I’m breaking it down and getting granular with how to plan for – and actually make – your dream income in your photography business, while having the lifestyle you’ve always wantedWarning: you may feel a little called out in this episode! I know because I’ve been there. When you’re stuck in the cycle of over-working and undercharging, it’s always easier to push the nagging voice in your head to one side and just keep doing what you’re doing and hope for the best…But what got you here won’t get you there! And the first step starts with awareness. So put aside distractions, grab your calculator and get ready to bust through that glass income ceiling, once and for all ;)Tune into this week’s episode to learn… The vital questions you need to ask yourself to figure out your dream income with example scenarios and calculations to help you on your wayThe difference between revenue and income and why you are almost definitely undercharging (even if you don’t think you are!)Why the average photographer's income accounts to less than minimum wage (!) and the concrete steps you can take to break the cycle and reach your goalsThe relationship between your dream hourly income and how much you should be paying for support in your businessMy own big hairy income goal for the next few years and why it’s so important to dream BIG with your financesHow I went from paying myself $11 an hour (yes, $11) to making multiple six figures in my business predictably, year-on-yearMy projected annual revenue for this year working only part time hours, but still making my highest ever, full-time income The 5 min exercise you need to do stat if you want to make big money shifts in your business!I really hope this episode inspires you and helps you realize what’s possible in your business, my Shine + Thriver! Implementing what I teach in this episode will quite literally change your life, IF and only IF you take action… so don’t hold back! Get started today. And know that I’m always here to support you on your journey <3SaraRESOURCES + LINKS:For more in-depth support on the themes covered in this episode, be sure to join the waitlist for my Outsourcing Made Easy Course at www.saramonika.com/waitlist My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Who doesn’t love a good student success story? Especially one this inspiring!This week I’m talking with Rachel Bowman – photographer, mom of two, and student of my program, Outsourcing Made Easy. We’ll be diving into her incredible journey and how she was able to gain back so much time freedom, financial freedom, and creative freedom through the program, in just 10 months.Tune in to discover…What Rachel’s life looked like before outsourcing as a mom and a full-time photographer [9.23]Why letting go of the belief that hiring someone = losing money changed everything for Rachel and what you should know if you’re feeling the same way [16.37]How to know if you are on the brink of burnout and the moment Rachel knew she needed to make changes [18.15]The transformation Rachel experienced in the quality of her life just 10 months after starting her outsourcing journey, plus everything she now outsources in her business [19.23], [23.28]What to do if you feel like you’re just “going through the motions” in your business and how to reignite the love for your craft [22.52]How to let go of control and why it’s important to let your business baby grow into an adult! [24.27]Why taking your time with your outsourcing journey and doing it your way is the key to success [26.28], [40.41]The very first thing Rachel let go of in her business [30.56]Rachel’s biggest takeaway from Outsourcing Made Easy that allows her to stay focused and make space for new ideas in her business [28.15]Rachel’s final thoughts on her experience and why she’ll be coming back to OME  time and time again as her business grows [37.17], [42.33]I hope this episode inspires you to take the first step in your outsourcing journey! If you’re curious about hopping on the outsourcing train, then be sure to join my waitlist for Outsourcing Made Easy in the show notes below ;)RESOURCES + LINKS:Outsourcing Made Easy is enrolling soon! Join the waitlist at: www.saramonika.com/waitlist My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

It’s here! Part 3 of my series of epic prompt ideas for photographers. Rounding things off this week we have 10 meaningful prompt ideas for your next family session! Tune in to discover…The difference between superficial and meaningful prompts, and how and when to use each type for best effectThe secret to gaining your muse’s trust and having them express themselves genuinely with youWhy your tone and energy are vital for getting great resultsHow to be observant and adapt to different personalities who may have trouble expressing themselves in traditional ways The simple timing hack that will help you always ensure you capture the most powerful momentsPlayful and meaningful ideas for family shots, plus the number one secret for getting kids to engage and be natural around you!I hope you love these prompts as much as I do! If you do, don’t forget to grab your 20% discount code for your own superfeel prompts in the links below ;)And if you missed the first two episodes of this prompts series, be sure to check them out right here!Episode 103: 10 Prompt Ideas for Your Next Couples Session or WeddingEpisode 113: 10 Soulful Prompt Ideas for Your Next Branding or Individual Portrait Session RESOURCES + LINKS:Use code SARAMONIKA20 or click the affiliate link below to get your very own Superfeel prompts:  https://www.superfeel.com/discount/20OFF?rfsn=6383109.867bfe My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

After seeing how much you guys loved Episode 103: 10 Prompt Ideas for Your Next Couples Session or Wedding, I decided it was time to return with even MORE epic prompt ideas for all my brand & portrait photographers!These prompts have been an absolute *game-changer* in my business, so I can’t wait for you to start having fun with them too…Tune in to discover:10 soulful prompt ideas that will provide serious inspo for your next shoot, elevate your client experience, and lead to deeper & more meaningful photosWhy your tone, timing, and delivery are KEY to success when using these prompts (with example scenarios)The three categories of emotion you’ll want to cover, how & when to use each one, plus how to match your energy to the moment for maximum effectThe most powerful prompts to memorize and have in your back pocket at all timesHow to open the doors to the deepest moments of connection with your subjects and the importance of listening to your intuition and following your curiosityI hope you love these prompts as much as I do! If you do, let me know on IG ;) And don’t forget to tune in next week, where I’ll be finishing up this series with an episode on 10 Meaningful Prompt Ideas for Your Next Family Session!RESOURCES + LINKS:Use code SARAMONIKA20 or click the affiliate link below to get your very own Superfeel prompts:  https://www.superfeel.com/discount/20OFF?rfsn=6383109.867bfeMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Welcome back to another episode! Today, I’m choosing to entertain you instead of teaching, because sometimes we all need to take life a little less seriously… ;) Plus, since teasing this story on my website I’ve had SO many people ask me about it! So without further ado, here’s one of my most embarrassing stories: I faked diarrhea in the bushes to try and get out of a ticket! Did it work?I hope you belly laugh at this story like many others before you! If you loved it, be sure to let me know on IG. And remember, the more you share stories like this and show up as your authentic self online, the more opportunities you give your ideal clients to connect with you. So consider this the permission you needed today to be polarizing and do things YOUR way in your marketing!My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Hey Shine & Thrivers! Welcome back to another episode. This week we’re doing things a little differently... Instead of sharing business tips or strategies with an awesome guest (more of that soon!), this week I wanted to open up about 3 very challenging and chaotic weeks I recently experienced. My hope is that by sharing my struggles and how I overcame them, it might shift your mindset to see solutions or coping strategies you may not have considered before and help you with whatever you might be going through right now... So no “learning” in the traditional sense this week, but plenty of lessons from the school of hard knocks (aka life)! Tune in to discover…What happened when we were ghosted by our home renovators in my third trimester of pregnancy and how we dealt with itThe unexpected turn of events that led to us welcoming another (!) family and their newborn and 17-month-old into our home for 2.5 weeks (and the challenges that entailed…)What happened when my health quickly took a turn amidst all of this (with wedding bookings coming up!) and the mantras and coping strategies that got me through it and out the other sideImportant questions to ask yourself to reframe challenging situations when you’re in the thick of it (if you take anything from this episode, let it be these!) Thanks for listening, as ever, your support means the world to me <3. If this episode helped you in any way, be sure to let me know on IG!My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

This week I’m coming at you with a short and sweet episode about the number #1 thing NOT do while shooting to ensure the best possible experience for your clients. It’s an easy and straightforward tip, but a powerful one no less! Once you learn how to side-step this lesser known obstacle, you’ll be able to…Build a deeper trust & rapport with your clients, so that they love the experience of working with you and keep coming back for moreEmpower your clients to feel comfortable and confident in their own skin, so you can create even better photos for them that they absolutely loveCapture the natural energy and flow of the day, without having to worry about ruining the vibe or causing unnecessary stress for anyoneFeel like the bad-ass, in-control photographer that you are at all times (no matter what unexpected situations come your way)I can’t wait for you to dive in and start implementing this in your business! No prep or props necessary – it’s truly as simple as hearing it, understanding it, and putting it into action (or rather, NOT putting it into action) ;)Once you’ve listened, I’d love to know what you thought - will you be mindful of this on your next shoot? Hit me up on IG and let me know!My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

This week, I’m talking to multi-seven figure entrepreneur, Rachel Brenke, who will be sharing her wisdom on how to create the life you desire through your business with the freedom to actually live it!You’ll discover…How Rachel transitioned out of the corporate world to build the life she truly wanted as an entrepreneur  [6.32]Rachel’s advice for making high-return decisions in your business that align with the season of life you’re in (especially if you’re a mom!) [14.31], [17.16]The 4 foundations that define how Rachel approaches her day and how to truly avoid burnout in your business, once and for all [23.13], [38.34]The biggest mistake Rachel sees photographers make when it comes to outsourcing in their business [28.23]How to avoid “busy work” and the secret to making strategic decisions that actually move the needle in your business [44.04]Signs you’re in your “business comfort zone” and the perils of a “it’ll never happen to me” mindset [49.19]Realistic advice for dealing with the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship and powerful insights to keep you motivated on your journey (including my very special “sh*t sandwich” approach!) [1.00.15]About My GuestRachel Brenke is an active practicing lawyer for photographers, a multi-industry business owner and photographer (when time allows!).  She serves photographers who desire photography to not only be their passion, but their profession, to be legally protected.  She’s also a mom of five, Team USA athlete, Iron Man competitor, and a multiple seven figure entrepreneur who has helped 365,000 entrepreneurs in 50 countries across the world with her work.RESOURCES + LINKS:Rachel’s Website https://rachelbrenke.com/ The Law Tog https://www.thelawtog.com/ Free Legal Roadmap https://thelawtog.lpages.co/free-legal-roadmap-v2/ Law Tog Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thelawtog/about/ My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

This week we’re talking about how to diversify your income streams and make more money as a photographer. Whether you’re thinking of starting a YouTube channel, online course, 1-1 coaching, or something similar, this episode is packed full of juicy ideas you can take away and implement in your business.You’ll learn…How Eric started out in photography and snowballed his business from side hustle to six figures [2.53]The first extra revenue stream Eric added in his business and why it’s a game-changer for most photographers [10.42]Why Eric started his YouTube channel and how to know if you’re ready for the transition from creator to educator [13.13]Eric’s first in-person workshop – why it failed and what you should absolutely learn from his experience [20.11]Eric & Sara’s approach to unhappy customers (with real-life examples) [32.48], [35.19]How Eric continued diversifying his content and his income before, during and after the pandemic [41.27]An *exact* breakdown of how much money Sara and Eric make in their businesses across every single revenue stream (you won’t want to miss this!) [49.13]The most important thing to remember if you’re thinking about starting an online course [1.07.47]About My GuestEric Floberg is a photographer & filmmaker from Chicago, Illinois. Having built his career photographing weddings, Eric is committed to creating timeless photographs that aren’t visually distracting. His images exist to pull on the nostalgic heartstrings of the viewer, helping them remember a specific time in life and the way people were then.RESOURCES + LINKS:Eric’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/edflobe Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/?next=/eric.floberg/ Website: https://ericfloberg.com/ My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

This week, we’re talking about how to create comfort for couples during intimate & nude sessions with a photographer who has lots of experience in this field, Liat Aharoni. If you’ve ever been curious about how you might offer this service to your couples or you just want to know more about this amazing niche, then this conversation is definitely for you!You’ll discover…Where Liat’s inspiration for intimate & nude photography comes from and how it has helped her on her own personal sexual journey [3.16]The range of experiences you can provide with intimate & nude photography and how Liat approaches different personalities and comfort levels [9.43]Why nude photography is no different to any other type of photography when it comes to advertising your services, plus examples of the various ways Liat books new clients [11.31]What to do BEFORE shoot day comes to ensure your couples feel safe and comfortable in their experience [13.47]What to do DURING shoot day and the mindset shift that will help you do an amazing job for your couples [18.20]The importance of consent and boundaries in every shooting situation and how to implement them [20.22], [35.08]Sara’s first and *only* nude photography shooting experience - how it went, what she learnt [30.50]What to do if you feel your uncomfortable thoughts taking over in the moment and how to stay professional for your clients [36.50]The simplest way to get started with intimate & nude photography today! [43.04]About My GuestLiat Aharoni is a photographer, based in Thornhill, ON, who documents beautiful weddings, elopements and steamy couples sessions with an artistic and distinctive style. Liat is a nature lover who shoots with adventurous and unconventional flair, and who loves to establish long lasting relationships with her clients.RESOURCES + LINKS:Liat's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liat.a/?hl=en Liat's Website: https://liataharoni.com/ My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

This week we’re going all in on the “M” word… marketing! I know how overwhelming it can be to keep on top of the content machine in your business - how challenging it is to build a strategy that’s right for you, then to stay consistent with it day on day, week on week…Luckily my special guest this week, Annemie Tonken, has a highly effective marketing method to share with you that will help you simplify the process and stay on track! Tune in to discover…Annemie’s effective and sustainable 4-tier framework and how to use it to plan your marketing efforts across the year [7.56] - [25.53]What to do if you have “all your eggs in one basket” when it comes to your marketing (especially on social media!) and how to gain traction on other platforms [26.10]Email marketing: what you need to know and why it’s a lot easier to see success with this platform than you might think [32.48]Straightforward content ideas you can get started with in your emails today, plus how to repurpose your content across platforms [35.20], [39.40], [43.30]The importance of being proactive rather than reactive with your marketing efforts and how to stay consistent in the long-term [46.07]About My Guest:Annemie Tonken is a family photographer, photography educator, and host of the “This Can’t Be That Hard” podcast which helps photographers run profitable and sustainable businesses they love. She is also well known for The Simple Sales System, an app she created in partnership with PicTime to help increase your online gallery system sales. To find out more about Annemie and her work, check out the links in the show notes below.RESOURCES + LINKS:Simple Sales System Masterclass - https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/22ssbmcsu This Can’t Be That Hard Podcast - https://www.thiscantbethathard.com/ This Can’t Be That Hard Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thiscantbethat/ My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Today we’re talking about the power of niching with birth & newborn photographer, Tavia Redburn. Join us as we discover…How Tavia got started in birth photography and the simple way to know if you’ve chosen the photography niche that’s right for you [6.38]The most common obstacles & objections Tavia hears when it comes to birth photography and her tips for overcoming them [9.57]What you need to know about niching, portfolio-building and gaining traction when you’re first starting out [16.43]How much Tavia charges for her birth photography packages, plus guidance on figuring out your rates and the number of bookings you can take on each year [22.28], [26.24], [29.46]Make-or-break advice for aspiring birth photographers still in their 9-5 [34.17]The ingenious contingency plans which allowed Tavia to continue serving her couples throughout the pandemic and which opened up a thriving new revenue stream in her business  [37.31]The one reframe which will help you if you’re struggling to believe you can make it as a birth photographer, plus examples of complimentary services you can offer around birth photography [43.40]About my guest:Tavia Redburn is a birth and newborn photographer based in Oklahoma City. She serves OKC moms who crave beautiful images of their babies so they never forget any detail about the day they were born or how perfectly tiny they were in those first days of life. She also teaches other photographers how to build a six figure photography studio so they can quit their 9-5 or retire their partner, like she did in 2017.RESOURCES + LINKS:Free training! https://certifiedbirthphotographer.com/training Instagram https://www.instagram.com/_thebeautyinbirth_/?hl=en Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thebeautyinbirth/ Quick start guide to starting your birth photography business in 2022 https://www.birthphotographyschool.com/start/ My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Ever wondered HOW photographers get those *incredible* underwater shots you see all over Instagram?Well, wonder no more!This week I’m getting ALL the juicy details from pro underwater photographer, adventurer & ocean conservationist, Taylor Walston, as she takes us behind the scenes of her business and shows you *exactly* how she does what she does…You’ll learn…How Taylor got into underwater photography and the key moments which changed her life and set her on her path [4.24]Why following your curiosity and making decisions that are aligned with your soul is crucial for building a unique, uncopyable business that you love (plus why no experience ever goes to waste!) [11.08]The one common piece of influencer-marketing advice that Taylor strategically ignored (and yet was still able to blow up online) [12.51]How to get started with underwater photography, gear recommendations, and the key safety principles you need to understand BEFORE getting started [19.39]Knowing your limits & capabilities in the water, hiring support, and how to build skills such as breath-hold work to help you in the water (whether in a pool, lake, ocean or otherwise) [24.24]A sneak peek into how some of those incredible shots you see on Instagram are created and the gear that will allow you to recreate them for yourself [30.04]How Taylor approaches underwater couples experiences from the planning & concepting, to shooting, to prompts & poses, and generally creating an amazing (and safe!) experience for her clients [36.51], [46.12]Taylor’s approach to brand work and how to market yourself to big brands even if you don’t have a large social media following or you’re just getting started [49.31]Why being in flow as a photographer, whether in water or on land, is so important to your craft [44.27], [55.46]I hope you enjoy listening to this episode as much as I enjoyed recording it! It feels so good to learn about a whole new area of photography and it certainly got my creative juices flowing ;) About my guest:Taylor Walston is a full time adventurer and underwater photographer & educator based in Hawaii. She loves documenting love and using her work to spread awareness for ocean conservation. To find out more about Taylor, be sure to check out the links in the show notes below.RESOURCES + LINKS:Taylor Walston's Website - https://taylorwalstoneducation.com/shop Taylor Walston's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taylorrwalston/ My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

If you’ve been a photographer for a while (or you’re just getting started!) you’ll know it’s not always easy to come up with exciting new prompts for your couples… Luckily, I have an AMAZING resource up my sleeve that will ensure you NEVER run out of fun ideas for your sessions… ;)Tune in to this week’s episode to discover…My go-to resource for prompts that will leave you spoiled for choice during your next couples session or wedding [2.58]The three categories of emotion you’ll want to cover and how & when to use each one [6.10]10 original prompt ideas you can get started with TODAY, from the fun and unconventional to the deep and meaningful [8.32]What to do if you’re feeling uncomfortable intruding on emotional moments plus the one reframe that completely changed how I show up in my photography career [15.56]Why your engagement questionnaire is *crucial* to choosing your prompts and an example of a prompt that might prove harmful if used on the wrong couple [22.19]How YOU can get your hands on these amazing prompts! [27.16]I can’t wait for you to get stuck in and start using some of these ideas for yourself… When you do, reach out on IG and let me know! I’d love to hear how they worked for you ;)RESOURCES + LINKS:Use code SARAMONIKA20 or click the affiliate link below to get your very own Superfeel prompts:  https://www.superfeel.com/discount/20OFF?rfsn=6383109.867bfeMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Welcome back to another episode! This week we’ll be diving deep into the theme of copywriting for your photography business with my special guest Rachel Greiman.Rachel is a copywriter & documentary family photographer based in Denver, Colorado, and the proud owner of Green Chair Stories - a company committed to taking photographs and writing words that look like *real* people.You’ll learn…What “copy” is, why it’s important, and where it fits into your marketing plan as a photographer [7.09]What you *need* to know about writing copy for your website, plus the most commonly overlooked page that can set you apart from your competition [8.22], [12.33]The difference between copy & content and how to know if you’re ready to hire a copywriter [17.12], [24.25]The single most important thing you need to do BEFORE hiring copy support [25.32]How to identify the hesitations & objections that might be holding your potential clients back from booking you (and how to fix them) [33.59]Advice for working moms who may be looking to restructure their businesses and how to harness the power of outsourcing to help you with this process [38.21], [46.52]Whether you’ve never heard the term “copywriting” before or you’re already confident in your copy chops, I guarantee this episode will change the way you view marketing in your photography business! I can’t wait for you to dive in ;)RESOURCES + LINKS:Rachel Greiman's Website - https://greenchairstories.com/resources Rachel Greiman's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/greenchairstories My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Welcome to another episode! This week I’m unpacking the term “industry standard” - what it is, what it means for your business, and crucial ways it may be holding you back personally and professionally.You’ll learn…The pro’s & con’s of “industry standard” practices, what the term really means, and how to figure out the path that’s right for you [2.45]Animation GIFS and what you should know before adopting this hot new trend for your clients [6.20], [25,29]Key examples of “industry standard” practices that I *choose* not to follow and why [9.34], [14.50], [25.29], [33.15]Practical advice for going against the grain and still being wildly successful in your business [15.43]How to steer clear of the resentment cycle in your business and instead pay attention to things that light you up [21.12], [28.10]My thoughts on having a second photographer and how to communicate your process clearly and effectively to your clients and their wedding planners [33.15]Why booking your dream clients and creating effortless success in your business is A LOT easier than you might think [29.14], [31.21]Remember, there is no one size fits all in business (or in life)! My hope is that this episode inspires you and gives you the tools you need to show up *exactly* how YOU want to in your photography business, whatever that may look like for you… :) Happy listening! My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Welcome to another episode! This week I’m sitting down with one of my star students from my Intuitive Storytelling course, Cassie Cetlin, as she shares some of her biggest wins and takeaways from the course.You’ll discover…What drew Cassie to Intuitive Storytelling and key clues that it might be exactly what you need in your business [6.13]The problem with Instagram & photography blogs and how to know if it’s stifling your creativity (and what to do about it!) [8.24], [16,25]Cassie’s biggest takeaways and “aha” moments from the course, including real-life moments where she put the course into action on wedding days [11.32]The minimalist approach to family photos and how to create time and space for things to unfold naturally on wedding days [25.06]“Emotion-point editing” and why it’s the editing style you never knew you needed [30.42]What you should know if you’re feeling scared or unsure about joining the course, especially if you’re newer in your photography journey [36.16]To find out more about Intuitive Storytelling and to sign up, be sure to check out the link in the show notes below .Until then, enjoy the episode! :)My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Welcome to a very special episode of The Shine + Thrive Photography podcast! This week I’m giving you a free behind the scenes look at module 5 - lesson 1 of my Intuitive Storytelling course: How To Reprogram Your Biggest Fears While Shooting Wedding DaysI’m so excited to be sharing this lesson with you because showing up fearlessly as the artist you are is a huge part of what Intuitive Storytelling is all about! To find out more about the course and to sign up, be sure to check out the link in the show notes below.In the meantime, sit back, relax and enjoy the episode! :)You’ll learn…A powerful model for understanding your mindset in 5 simple steps (and why you’re actually a lot more in control than you might realize!) [6.10]How to consciously flip the script on your negative thoughts and take positive actions that serve you [11.16], [13.54] The most common fears photographers feel on wedding days and the personal mantras I use to combat them [14.14]The infinite power of what you have to offer as a photographer and how to own what you believe as an artist (and communicate it clearly everywhere) [25.08], [27.58]How to use your emotional intelligence on wedding days so you can stay the calm, grounding presence in the room and have a ripple effect on those around you [28.32], [35.17]Why it’s never too late to reprogram your mindset on wedding days [35.44]My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

It’s time to book your FOR REAL dream clients! If you’ve ever asked yourself if it’s possible to raise your rates AND work with perfect-fit clients…If you’ve ever doubted whether you’re on the right path or struggled to put into words what you do and how you do it…Then this week’s episode is for you! Join fellow photographer and creative entrepreneur Paige Ray and I as we talk all things pricing, marketing and business growth  Tune in to discover…Paige’s journey to becoming the photographer she is today and how to keep going when things feel tough in the early stages of your business [3.01]The 3 things you NEED to do to book perfect-fit clients and make your dream income [16.04]Key questions to ask your past clients to help you figure out your secret sauce as a photographer [20.12]How to highlight the transformation you provide in your marketing, so you can raise your rates and sell from a place of integrity [25.03]The real reason you’re struggling to raise your rates and money assumptions that may be damaging your business growth [33.15], [36.20]How to step outside of your doubt and take action (even if you feel you have no idea what you’re doing)! [41.11]About my guest:Paige Ray is a catalyst for creative entrepreneurs. She guides her clients in breaking new ground and dominating their industry through radical vision and meaningful action. Having spent the first 10 years of her career as an editor & journalist and 10 years as an award-winning photographer for creative brands seeking artful, editorial photography; she now combines both her passions with her creative agency Paige Ray Creative.RESOURCES + LINKS:The Creative MastermindPaige Ray's WebsitePaige Ray's InstagramMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Welcome to a very special episode of the Shine + Thrive Photography podcast! This week, I’ll be sharing my raw, unfiltered birth story with you. From the highs, to the lows & everything in between… I’m laying it all on the table ;)My hope is that by sharing my story, it inspires you to know that you CAN do hard things. And of course, that it gives you some valuable insights you can take with you on your own birth journey or to support someone you love.Join me and a very special guest who played a *huge* role in supporting me on my journey, Karen Welton, as we talk through some of the teachings and methodologies that helped me along the way.Karen is a doula and childbirth educator, who has supported hundreds of women in their childbirth journeys. Karen teaches women how to partner with their bodies’ divine design to have pain-free, ecstatic births and postpartum experiences. She’s on a mission to change the global culture of birth so that women no longer fear it, but look forward to it with joy. You can find out more about Karen’s courses in the show notes below, but for now, I really hope you enjoy and find this episode valuable! It feels so good to be sharing it with you, my Shine + Thrivers <3 You’ll learn…My hopes before the big day and the visualization exercise that helped me manifest the birth I wanted (and actually get it!) [12.47]My “incredible hulk” moment (!) plus why it’s sometimes best to surrender when things don’t go according to plan [25.09], [29.44], [53.00]Why childbirth is not a linear process and how to tap into altered states of consciousness to help you throughout your experience [40.34]The moment of truth! Giving birth to Ben and the techniques that helped me bring him into the world [56.08]How to keep going during the toughest moments and coach yourself through the process [1.36.04]My postpartum experience so far and an honest look at some of my darker moments, as well as the lighter ones [1.41.59], [1.49.27]My biggest takeaways from Karen’s course and Karen’s final advice for any woman about to embark on her own birthing journey [1.38.11]RESOURCES + LINKS:Pain Free Birth E course LinkPostpartum Bliss E-course LinkFree Partner's CheatsheetFree FB GroupMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Let’s talk workflows!If you’ve been toying with the idea of setting up workflows in your photography business OR you’ve already started and want to make sure you’re on the right path…Then you’re not going to want to miss this week’s episode! Join photographer, business coach & workflow educator Laura Lee Murphy and I as we dive deep into all things systems, processes, and workflows.You’ll learn…What a workflow is and why you absolutely need one if you want to grow your photography business [2.38], [7.49], [32.18] Laura’s journey from burnout & overwhelm to workflow wizard! [10.41] How to get started designing your workflows and systems [22.23] The 10x rule you can use to tackle your workflows (and anything else in your business for that matter)! [25.05] Laura’s “Take Back Your Time Framework” for defining, systemising & scaling your workflows [31.18] Next level workflows, standard operating procedures and how to know if you’re ready to outsource [34.36] How to stay motivated even if working on your processes is outside of your zone of genius [37.37] The real power of processes and why you need to take action today [53.38]About my guest:Laura Lee Murphy is photographer, systems strategist, business coach, retreat host and speaker for creative entrepreneurs. She educates the creative community on all things workflow, systems, productivity and time management to help her clients and students run thriving businesses that don’t require working around the clock. Laura is on a mission for entrepreneurs to schedule more date nights, brunch, weekends, and vacations as a result of finding work-life balance while running a thriving business. RESOURCES + LINKS:Take the first step to finally taking back your time by streamlining your business with powerful workflows & systems! Download Laura Lee Creative's FREE Quickstart Guide for business owners with 10 must-do actions to add to your workflow to increase profits, skyrocket your efficiency and improve your client experience! Click here to download now!The Quickstart Guide to Streamlining & Optimizing Your Biz - https://view.flodesk.com/pages/61eadff160ada4164ea6eb1c https://lauraleecreative.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lauraleecreative/ My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Ever wondered what to include in your wedding price guide…? Wishing you could sneak a peek at someone else’s for some inspo…? Then you’re in the right place! In this week’s episode of the Shine + Thrive Photography Podcast, I’m going to be taking you through my own wedding price guide step-by-step, page-by-page.This guide has been 11 years in the making and I’m so excited to be sharing it with you. My hope is that it will help and inspire you on your own journey, so you can increase your bookings and serve even more of your dream clients! Tune in to discover…A detailed breakdown of everything I include in my own wedding price guide (down to each individual page!)How to take your clients on an emotional journey through your guide so they feel confident and excited about working with you [7.40], [12.18]How to build automatic filters & qualifiers into your guide so that only ‘perfect fit’ clients book you (...and so you avoid endless calls and meetings in the process!) [2.18], [4.57], [7.40]The key to using testimonials in your guide (and what NOT to do) [5.30]How to infuse your personality into your guide and build instant connection with your clients-to-be [9.40]The number #1 question you need to keep in mind at every stage when you’re writing your guide [12.22]How to use your guide to set expectations, tackle important FAQs, and present your investment options as clearly and confidently as possible [17.33 until end]My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Creating an amazing experience for your clients at every stage of their journey with you is the key to building your reputation, referrals, and repeat bookings as a wedding photographer…But how do you actually map out your client experience and build workflows that set you up for success?Enter Cassie Cetlin. Cassie is a Toronto-based wedding photographer with a background in service design, so it’s safe to say she knows a thing or two about creating amazing client experiences! Join us on this week’s episode of the Shine + Thrive Podcast as Cassie breaks down all of her best tips and strategies. You’ll learn…  Cassie’s step-by-step process for mapping out your client journey [4.45]The number #1 thing you must do to build workflows that WORK [7.55]How to deeply understand your clients’ pain points and spot patterns that may be sabotaging your client experience [16.41]The surprisingly simple psychology hack to keep your clients happy when gallery submission day comes [20.22]How to identify your area of focus even if you’re overwhelmed or short on time to work on your processes [23.57], [31.48]Quick and easy solutions you can implement in your business to build trust and make your clients feel happy & taken care of [27.04], [30.15]Tips on where to focus your energy according to your stage in business (from beginner, to advanced, and everything in between!) [28.18] RESOURCES + LINKS:Cassie Cetlinhttps://www.instagram.com/cassiecetlinphotography/ https://www.cassiecetlinphotography.com/ Customer Journey Worksheet: Click HereMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Let’s talk inclusion! I’m so excited to be welcoming this week’s guest, Hank Paul, to share his story, experiences, and insights into how we can all make our businesses  safer and more inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ couples.Tune in to discover…Hank’s personal journey to becoming the proud, queer-owned business owner he is today [4.17]How to build a business that serves YOUR values, desires & dreams (instead of making decisions from a place of fear…) [12.59]What it really means to make the LGBTQ+ community feel “welcome” and how to show up as a true ally [17.54]Specific language you can use to be more inclusive with your couples at every touchpoint of your client experience [20.54]How to de-gender your wedding experience to avoid harmful patriarchal stereotypes, so your couples can express their love in a way that feels right for them [30.41]The worst thing you can do if you want to make your business safer for queer people… [42.01]About our guest:Hank is a full-time wedding photographer based in Sydney, Australia, specializing in sustainable and inclusive weddings. Hank’s pronouns are he/him and he is a lover of board games, indoor plants, and all forms of fried potato! He co-hosts the Profit on the Margins Podcast, a business education podcast for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, and is the author of Queer-Owned: The Ultimate Guide to Personal Branding for LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs.This episode is full of powerful insights and practical advice that you can take away and implement in your own business - I can’t wait for you to dive in! RESOURCES + LINKS:Queer Wedding Ally Training https://www.hankpaul.co/queer-wedding-ally-training-waitlist Hank Paulhttps://www.instagram.com/henrypaulphotography/ https://henrypaul.com.au/ Profit on the Margins podcasthttps://www.queerentrepreneur.com/podcast/ My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Thinking about making the switch from Pixieset to Pic-Time? Wondering which platform’s right for you? Then look no further, I’ve got you covered! Tune in to discover my unfiltered thoughts, tips, and crucially - my numbers - a full year after making the switch from Pixieset to Pic-Time in my own business…In this episode, you’ll learn…The key differences between each platform and why I made the switch to Pic-Time [5.03]The best time to switch gallery platforms and how to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible [4.23] & [7.48]The one game-changing PicTime feature that blew my mind which will help you elevate your client experience [6.33]How to leverage Pic-Time’s resources effectively so you can choose the sales strategy that’s right for you [13.49] & [16.57]A detailed breakdown of ALL of my 2021 sales figures on PicTime!  [28.04]I’m talking profit margins, markup figures, every sale and promotion I ran in 2021… Plus a side-by-side comparison of my results with Pic-Time in 2021 vs. my results with Pixieset in 2020 (so you can compare)I can’t wait for you to dive in!RESOURCES + LINKS:Click here to sign up to Pic-Time and get a bonus free month by using code SARAMONIKA My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do you believe the lie that it's hard to stand out in an oversaturated photography market? If you answered "yes" and you are just thinking of starting your photography business, or are a couple years in, or have been in the game for a while, then this episode is a must listen so that you can expand your mind and senses to see the possibilities that are available to you! In this episode Eden Strader and I cover: - Why oversaturation is a lie- How photographers can overcome seemingly oversaturated markets - How to break business "rules" and build a successful photography career Before you dive in, here is a little bit about my amazing, light filled guest Eden Strader! Eden Strader is a destination wedding photographer turned business coach, leading creative entrepreneurs inbuilding a life of artistic growth, wealth, and freedom. She’s traveled from Hawaii to Switzerland photographing both love and business brands, built a six figure company before age 23, and has helped hundreds of business owners step into their dream businesses.A lover of unique color, light, and people- Eden Strader’s business is filled to the brim with empowerment, honest education, lots of color and a little bit of woo. Outside of work, Eden is passionate about removing the stigma of mental health, spreading awareness of abuse and helping women claim their power. Enjoy tuning in and learning! :)You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.LINKS:Eden's Insta - https://www.instagram.com/edenstrader/Eden's education - https://edenstrader.com/educationMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

The possibilities are endless in running a creative business! Kristine Richer is the perfect example of that since she has been able to create a six-figure income for herself and her family through her passion of Nightscape and Deepscape photography!In this episode you will learn:the beliefs she needed to dismantle along her journey to get to what actually felt like real success to her in her photography careerthe power of your why as a photographer and how it is linked to how confidently you show up and sellhow she quit her full time job in 2020, went all in with her photography business and took it to multiple 6 figures in 2021 - in a way that would surprise you!shares about what she teaches in her Milky Way photography course where she empowers her students to connect more to themselves and nature through shooting nightscapes and deepscapes And a little bit more about Kristine before you dive into the episode:Kristine Richer is the owner of Kristine Rose Photography and runs the Night Photography Academy where she teaches enthusiastic outdoor photographers how to create stunning images of the Milky Way. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Bachelor of Design from NSCAD University and spent over a decade as a commercial product photographer and designer. She started teaching photography at NSCAD university in 2008 and during the pandemic quit her full-time commercial photography job to instead run her own business as a full time fine art photographer and educator. She has exhibited her images both locally and worldwide and has had two of her images featured by NASA on their APOD (Astronomy Photo of the Day). Enjoy tuning in and learning from Kristine Richer!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.LINKSKristine's Milkyway Photos - https://www.kristinerosephotography.com/yourfirstmilkywayphoto Kristine's Insta - https://www.instagram.com/kristinerosephotography/My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

This is your reminder to keep going.Keep taking those small steps.Those steps that seem so small and insignificant now.Are building something bigger than you can even imagine is possible for you.For these small steps are the bricks that help build the bridge to your success - however you define that for yourself.They add up and build on top of one another until one day...you see this aww inspiring bridge you have built for yourself.Yes! Take a good look at it. YOU did that!Now, you get to enjoy easily and effortlessly making your way to the other side so that you can enjoy that life that was once a dream...as your new reality.Pause. Enjoy. Celebrate that new reality, For as long as it feels good to your soul.But then from there, remember to keep going.Because you will have another bridge to build that'll take you to your new dreams.You see, your desire to grow and explore and dream big will never end.And that is the beauty of being human.Don't resist it. EMBRACE it.Yes you will feel discomfort, disappointment, and even rejection along the way.But that is a part of it.Our achievements wouldn't be exciting if they were too easy to accomplish.So give thanks to the downs. Give thanks to the valleys.Because its what makes the peaks taste oh so sweet.So please. Keep going.Just around the corner is another peak for you to experience.It could be today. It could be tomorrow. It could be in a year.But what I know to be true is...if you don't give up now. It is there waiting for you.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

 Tia Abbott is one of my Crystal Clear Marketing students that has experienced a huge transformation through this mini-course I created. In today's episode, Tia shares:How she shows up on social media being her perfectly imperfect self and how that has boosted MEANINGFUL engagementHow her confidence while shooting and running her business has skyrocketedHow she realized that she is actually her dream clientAnd how she has been able to confidently raise her rates and book dream clients at the same timeI hope you enjoy my chat with Tia! If you're ready to start marketing your business from the inside out and effortlessly book your dream photography clients, head over to saramonika.com/crystalclear to grab your copy of the course and dive into learning and being in action!Links:-Crystal Clear Marketing course-Tia's Instagram @tialoryssaphotography My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

If you're a wedding and portrait photographer, it's that time of year where you're now thinking of the following season and trying to get it fully bookedOne of my OME students said she had 38 sessions and weddings in her editing queue this past November 2021, and when I heard this it broke my heart for two reasons. #1 that she was so burnt out and overwhelmed, but also, because I know she could have easily made that same amount of money by raising her rates and shooting 1/3 or half of those sessions! So right away I knew I wanted to remind you here on the podcast to not let this happen to you this upcoming season and to start raising your rates slowly NOW. Tune in to find out how to do so without missing out on bookings! :) My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Have you ever been faced with a client demanding a refund even though you did nothing wrong? Whether you have or you haven't, you'll wanna tune into this episode because I share with you a new way of thinking so that if/when you face these kinds of "problems" in your business, they can feel much more effortless! Tune in to find out how I have been navigating my business for the past 10 years in a way that consistently helps me avoid any sort of drama with clients while staying true to myself.Link:The Shine + Thrive Photography Community on FacebookSara Monika’s Outsourcing Made Easy for Wedding Photographers online course.Wanna know how you can work less hours and make more money so that you never have to experience burn out ever again as a wedding photographer? Sign up for the waitlist so you can be the first to know when Outsourcing Made Easy doors open again!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do you want an exclusive peek into my business + life to see how things are ACTUALLY going for me?In this last episode of 2021, I'm sharing with you openly and vulnerably the results of the 2021 goals I set for myself. Some of them I "failed" at and learned lessons along the way, and others I achieved and even surpassed! I know I love hearing from other entrepreneurs about the lessons and achievements they have along the way since it helps me feel less alone on my journey and also opens up my eyes to what is possible for me too! So, I wanted to do the same for you!With this episode, I hope to be the proof of what can be possible for YOU, but also the proof that not everything has to go perfectly in your life for you to still have a kickass year! :) Links: Intuitive Storytelling CourseCrystal Clear MarketingOutsourcing Made Easy for PhotographersMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

 Did you know that the quality of your client experience is directly correlated to the systems you have in place? Disorganized systems usually mean you have a disorganized and inconsistent experience that you are offering your clients, which means, there is room for improvement! In this episode, I chat with wedding photographer Alora Rachelle on what she does in her business to elevate her client experience. So if you need some inspiration in this area (which I'm sure you do because we can all always find a way to improve in this area), then hit play now :)LINKS:Alora's The Wedding CEO program: https://www.alorarachelle.com/weddingceoApply for Alora's coaching: https://www.alorarachelle.com/applyMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do you feel like you HAVE TO have availability on weekends for sessions in order to have a successful photography business? What if I told you that this simply isn't true, and you can decide to stop accepting weekend sessions bookings...like right NOW!? Would that make you feel relieved? Excited? Feel more free? If so, tune into this latest episode because it is guaranteed to empower you to do just that :)My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Have you ever thought about beginning to outsource in your photography business but didn't take action on it because you wondered what the cost would be and if it would be worth it? If you are stuck in a world of burn out, and overwhelm, while not making the income you need and desire as a photographer, then this episode is a MUST LISTEN. Hit play now to find out the true cost of outsourcing, and what you are leaving on the table when you choose NOT to outsource in your business.Also...The moment you have been waiting for a year is finally here! I have re-opened the doors to Outsourcing Made Easy for photographers and I'm accepting new students as we speak! The doors won't be open again until the fall of 2022, so make sure to listen up!I've created this comprehensive course for portrait + wedding photographers like you where I take you step-by-step showing you how you can work part-time hours, and make the full-time income you need! The fun part is that I teach you how to do this by only doing the tasks you absolutely love (like shooting), and delegating the tasks that don't light your soul on fire. Oh and don't worry, if you're worried that outsourcing won't work for you or it's too expensive, I'll just say right here that the story you are telling yourself in your mind my friend, is basically a bunch of B.S. So many of my past students felt the same way. They were so scared to let go of control, but guess what, they realized they were wrong QUICK when they started to experience so much more time and financial freedom in their lives while getting back their editing, and culling, and other tasks exactly as they would do them!As my students always say, their minds were blown. If you wanna hear more relatable success stories then I have them for you at saramonika.com/freedom !Don't miss your chance to learn my outsourcing workflows and copy and paste them into your business for you can finally experience the time + financial freedom you desire sooner instead of taking years to figure it out by yourself. Hellllo fast-track!Doors are closing soon for an entire year so do yourself a favor and don't procrastinate this one. I can't wait to personally support you on your outsourcing journey! Go to saramonika.com/freedom now to sign up!My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

The moment you have been waiting for a year is finally here! I have re-opened the doors to Outsourcing Made Easy for photographers and I'm accepting new students as we speak! The doors won't be open again until the fall of 2022, so make sure to listen up!I've created this comprehensive course for portrait + wedding photographers like you where I take you step-by-step showing you how you can work part-time hours, and make the full-time income you need! The fun part is that I teach you how to do this by only doing the tasks you absolutely love (like shooting), and delegating the tasks that don't light your soul on fire. Oh and don't worry, if you're worried that outsourcing won't work for you or it's too expensive, I'll just say right here that the story you are telling yourself in your mind my friend, is basically a bunch of B.S. So many of my past students felt the same way. They were so scared to let go of control, but guess what, they realized they were wrong QUICK when they started to experience so much more time and financial freedom in their lives while getting back their editing, and culling, and other tasks exactly as they would do them!As my students always say, their minds were blown. Don't take it from me, take it from Nicole Vallance for example, a wedding photographer who wished she had found out about my course Outsourcing Made Easy course sooner. She shares her experience with OME in this short podcast episode! And if you wanna hear more relatable success stories then I have them for you at saramonika.com/freedom !Don't miss your chance to learn my outsourcing workflows and copy and paste them into your business for you can finally experience the time + financial freedom you desire sooner instead of taking years to figure it out by yourself. Hellllo fast-track!Doors are closing soon for an entire year so do yourself a favor and don't procrastinate this one. I can't wait to personally support you on your outsourcing journey! Go to saramonika.com/freedom now to sign up!My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

If you a burnt-out and overwhelmed photographer, and you're not sure how to stay sane right now, then this episode was literally made for you!Jess is one of my Alumni students from my Outsourcing Made Easy for Photographers program and she shares how she went from working long hours 7 days a week, missing precious time with her husband and 2 boys, and just feeling plain overworked to sunshine + rainbows. She said that she was basically able to find more freedom for herself in her life and keep the same income she was earning as a photographer! She no longer remembers what burnout even feels like! If you dream of this kind of lifestyle freedom then tune into the episode now and enjoy hearing Jess's transformation story!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.LINKS:- The 4 Secrets to Having More Time + Financial Freedom While Avoiding Burnout as a Photographer- Jess Collin's Instagram @jcollinsphotos- Jess' website - https://jesscollinsphotos.com/ My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

How can a photographer know if they are ready to start outsourcing in their business? Also, is it worth it? After all, it can be scary to let go of control, and also let go of some of the money you've earned, but as you learned in the last episode it's possible to train someone to do tasks exactly how you do them, and you're leaving money on the table if you're not outsourcing yet. Aka, it's costing you MORE money NOT to outsource. Tune into this episode to learn the 3 signs that are proof you're ready to start outsourcing in your photography business!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.LINKS:- The 4 Secrets to Having More Time + Financial Freedom While Avoiding Burnout as a PhotographerMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

At the start of the year, you get all excited to finally start shooting again, and for the opportunity to get creative. You really believe that this year will be different than the last. Meaning, you won't get overworked and burnt out because you feel like you are more organized than you were last year and you made a promise to yourself that your health and life is a priority and that burnout is no longer welcome in your life.Then, you somehow find yourself in the final 2 or 3 months of the season, backlogged with editing work, culling, and emails flooding in that make you feel more overwhelmed and even sometimes resentful of your clients. You can't seem to catch up even though you are working every single day for 12-15 hours. Sound familiar? Tune into this episode right now to learn how YOU can avoid burnout all year round to have the quality of life you desire!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.LINKS:- The 4 Secrets to Having More Time + Financial Freedom While Avoiding Burnout as a PhotographerMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

 I declared to the universe exactly what I wanted and it became my reality. Both with our baby that is due Feb 28, 2022 and my dream car that I got in August 2021! In this life update episode, I share with you the detailed stories of how both came to be with a sprinkle of inspiration of how you can manifest the things you desire in your life too! :)If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do you want to become a wedding photographer but have no idea how to get started if you don't have a wedding portfolio? It's an odd place to be right!? If you're nodding your head, then hit play on this episode now because it'll give you a handful of ideas on how to get the ball rolling on growing your wedding portfolio from scratch! One of my listeners put what I shared into action and shared her results with me and so you'll hear all about that too! :)If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do you ever find yourself overthinking what you should post on Instagram, to the point where you don't end up posting AT ALL and end up feeling defeated in the process? If you do, then you are not alone! I share with you the advice I gave to a photographer that was feeling drained just thinking about posting on social and how to shift her energy and mindset into feeling empowered to post what she wants when she wants!If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.LINKSThe Shine + Thrive Photography Community on FacebookMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

You asked for it...And I’m bringin’ you the goods!Intuitive Storytelling is now open and welcoming new students as we speak!Here’s what you need to know today...This is an online, go at your own pace, lifetime access course that will help you:Become a confident + fearless wedding day storytellerCreate meaningful photos AND experiences for your couples and their family + friends on wedding daysBe in the right place at the right time so you never miss a moment!Let the anxiety melt away and have fun doing what you love freely!Trust your instincts confidently on a wedding dayCreate strong storytelling photos that people will feel emotionally connected to!Because, let’s be honest…You’re scared of missing key moments on wedding daysYou feel pressured to create photos that are “Pinterest perfect” and Instagram worthyYou’re nervous about all the different lighting scenarios that are out of your control and not sure how to handle themYou’re confused on how to balance creating beautiful imagery while also capturing authentic moments and emotionYou’re worried about being in people’s way too oftenBut most importantly, you're scared of your couples not being happy with their wedding photos!And this is where you can step up and re-write the script so that you confidently approach every wedding day KNOWING your couples will LOVE their photos!That’s why I’m inviting you to this opportunity, because I know you dream of going into every wedding day CONFIDENT that your couples will LOVE the photos you create for them.Become a part of Intuitive Storytelling and start storytelling like a pro on wedding days this season!Sign up now at > saramonika.com/storytellingMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

 Do you ever sit down to cull a wedding, see how many unnecessary photos you took, and wonder how the heck to stop overshooting so much? I've been there, done that! In this episode, I'll share with you the key questions to ask yourself before taking photos to ensure that they are more quality vs. quantity! This means you will save time on culling, save your camera life, and deliver a better experience for your clients with higher-quality photos! If you're a wedding photographer, you won't want to miss this one!If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!LINKSThe Shine + Thrive Photographers Community Facebook groupMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do you ever end up with wayyyy to many images after culling a wedding (like 1000 +) and you're not quite sure how to cull them down even more that will curate a better story for your couples? Make sure to tune into this episode to learn a secret of mine that helps me cull down weddings to 500-800 images very easily and decisively!If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!RESOURCESIntuitive Storytelling Course for wedding photographers.Outsourcing Made Easy for Photographers online course.Wanna know how you can work less hours and make more money so that you never have to experience burn out ever again as a wedding photographer? Sign up for the waitlist so you can be the first to know when Outsourcing Made Easy doors open again!My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Wanna hear what parts of the experience I created for my wedding clients that they loved!? Tune in to find out so that you can get inspired on how to create the best experience for YOUR clients! If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.Timestamps:[02:54] with Katie + Britney[08:03] with Christina + Ranjeev[14:40] with Jess[23:22] with LaurenLINKSIntuitive Storytelling CourseSara Monika’s Outsourcing Made Easy for Wedding Photographers online course.Wanna know how you can work less hours and make more money so that you never have to experience burn out ever again as a wedding photographer? Sign up for the waitlist so you can be the first to know when Outsourcing Made Easy doors open again!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!With love + gratitude,Sara

Want to learn how you can be more decisive while shooting so that you can create confidently? Tune in to learn what I do to make decisions quickly and effortlessly that allows me to create work I'm proud of and my clients love! If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE. Timestamps:[03:18] Why knowing your priority when creating is important[08:37] Using your intuition to guide you when shooting[11:07] What does it mean to "capture the flashes"LINKSIntuitive Storytelling CourseMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

The 75 Hard Challenge is a mental toughness challenge that helped both Sandra and I evolve physically, mentally, and emotionally this year. It consists of doing the following for 75 days straight:2 workouts a dayDrinking a gallon of waterTaking a progress picturePicking a diet and sticking to itNo cheat meals and alcoholReading 10 pages Wanna hear how it all went down for us!? Tune in to find out! :)If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.Timestamps: 02:32 - What is the 75 Hard Challenge?04:05 - What made Sandra + Sara say yes to the challenge10:45 - The hardest and easiest part of the challenge19:07 - What Sara + Sandra  learned about the challenge24:05 - The day after the challenge28:10 - The importance of being easy on yourself and understanding that change does not happen overnight43:04 - How Sandra's family kept up even after the challengeLINKS:75hard.comMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do you wish you had more prompt ideas for wedding party photos so that they could feel more fun and authentic? Well, get excited, because I'm sharing some of my favourites in today's Shine + Thrive Photography Podcast episode! :)If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.LINKSThe Shine + Thrive Photography Community on FacebookMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Let's talk lighting! Wanna know how to handle harsh sunlight when you cannot choose the location from 10 AM to 4 PM? Also, are you curious why photographers rave about golden hour? Tune in to find out some of my tricks on how I shoot in different lighting scenarios outdoors on wedding days and shoots!If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.Timestamps:[08:37] How to handle harsh sunlight when you cannot choose the location from 10 AM to 4 PM[12:58] Why photographers rave about golden hour and how to not get grainy photos[18:21] The best time to shoot outdoors[21:21]Tips on shooting during golden hour and keeping your editing true to you[28:09] Invitation for a Zoom Party within the Shine + Thrive Photography Community Facebook group on June 9, 2021, 7 PM EST. LINKS:The Shine + Thrive Photography Community on FacebookMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Wanna know how you can save time and achieve your goals faster? Well, it's by getting clear on your vision intuitively, and then taking the actions that are aligned with that vision. To help you learn how to fine-tune your inner compass, I have Sachin Khona joining me in this episode to share what has worked for him in his 10 years as a wedding photographer! As we were chatting, I was writing down so many nuggets of wisdom that inspired me throughout our chat, and now I'm excited for you to have access to our chat to help you get clear on your vision too :) If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.Timestamps:[10:37] Sachin shares how he got clarity on his vision when he was starting out as a photographer[13:34] A piece of advice on you can get clarity on your vision and go after it courageously when you don't have a safety net [22:34] The importance of taking action on your vision and strategy[24:25] How Sachin's vision setting and creating strategies evolved over time[31:04] Creating a vision that is in harmony and alignment with your career and life[36:45] How daily meditation and reflection helps with overwhelm, stress, and focusLINKS:Sachin's Instagram - @sachinkhonaMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

I get it. You're trying to get noticed by your dream photography clients, and you're confused about why other photographers book those clients and you don't! You're not alone in this. My guest Emily McCracken also felt this way and she couldn't quite figure out what needed to shift, until now. In this episode, she shares how showing up as her authentic self had improved the inquiries she was getting and the connection she shares with her clients. Not only that, but she also gained clarity on how to cultivate a photography business where she could freely only say YES to what set her soul on fire, and NO to what drained her. #livinthedreamIf you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.Timestamps:[05:12] What inspired Emily to enroll in my Crystal Clear Marketing mini course[09:20] How it's costing you more time and more money NOT specializing[15:24] How the CCM course helped Emily's photography business[21:53] Emily shares the benefits of taking a course with a photographer friend[26:54] Her biggest takeaway from the CCM mini course[28:09] The importance of figuring out your WHYLINKS:Crystal Clear Marketing Mini Course for PhotographersEmily's Instagram - @emilymccrackenphotographyBecca Cannon's Posing GuideEvelyn Barkey's RetreatsMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

If you have ever thought or said one of the following statements, then this podcast episode is a must listen!"I'm from a small town so it's hard to get photography bookings""How can I charge more when there are other photographers charging less""It's not fair that they get those clients and I don't""There is too much competition""It's impossible for me to raise my rates and still get the bookings I want"Tune in to find out how these statements (whether said consciously or thought subconsciously) are keeping you stuck.If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.Timestamps:[03:13] The two kinds of uncomfortable[04:55] I explain the concept of Lack Mentality[07:06] 5 statements I hear often from photographers that come from the Lack MentalityLINKS:Crystal Clear Marketing Mini Course for PhotographersEpisode 5: How to make more money as a wedding photographerMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do you need some prompt ideas to help you feel more confident in delivering a fun experience for your couples, but also create imagery they will love? I know I'm always up for learning how to improve my portrait game! I love some of the prompts I learned from Becca Cannon in this episode to help take my portrait work to a new level and I know you will too! Also, she touched on an important topic for anyone that is thinking of relocating their business to a different city, state, or country in case you want to/need to move. She shares openly about what mistakes she made when doing so and what she wished she had known sooner to make the transition smoother for her and her husband! If all this has you intrigued, make sure to tune into this episode right now :)If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.Timestamps:[8:54] Becca's experience of moving her photography business from one state to another[12:11] She shares her struggles learning the new market and things she should've done better in marketing[15:34] The importance of repeating your message to your audience for clarity of when you are moving and you're still taking on bookings[10:20] Tips on figuring out your pricing as you switch your market[23:12] Becca's passion in making her couples comfortable in front of the camera[28:03] Pointers on how to approach extroverted and introverted couples at the start of a session[34:05] How to be creative in shooting introverted couples[38:16] How to navigate intimate moments: when to stay quiet or give feedback[44:46] Some of Becca's go-to prompts to pose couplesLINKS:Becca Cannon's Posing CourseBecca Cannon Photo Instagram - @beccacannonphotoMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Are you having a hard time driving traffic to your photography website? Is S.E.O overwhelming you? Are the people visiting your website not the right kind of visitors (a.k.a. they are not converting into clients)? These are the questions my guest Carolina Guzik has for you and if you answered yes for even just one of these, then this episode is a great fit for you!In 2017, Carolina changed her Pinterest strategy and the results were mind-blowing! Not only did the traffic to her website triple, but most importantly, she started to book weddings thanks to Pinterest! To add to this, she explains in this episode that 40 million people use Pinterest every year to plan their wedding! Yes, that's 40 million people! So what if I tell you that you can get some of those couples off Pinterest and into your website? If that got you excited, then tune into this episode! You are in for a treat :)If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.LINKS:The Tog Republic Website - www.thetogrepublic.com/The Art of Pinning by Carolina GuzikThe Tog Republic Instagram - @thetogrepublicMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Have you ever learned a lesson in your business the hard way? I know your answer is yes! We all stumble along the way! Today I'm sharing with you a lesson I learned about taking group photos on wedding days and I'm passing it along to you so you can avoid making this mistake in the future yourself! It'll take you 10 minutes to tune in and save you headaches down the line, so the way I see it, it's a no-brainer! Hit play now :)If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.LINK:The Shine + Thrive Facebook GroupMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Are you operating your photography business from a place of alignment with who you are and your passions? If you're not quite sure, today's episode will help answer that question for you! I love how Evelyn chatted so openly about her journey of rediscovering who she is at her core and how she fused that into her photography business so that she can keep creating work that not only excites her but also creates an unforgettable experience for her clients!If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES + LINKS:Evelyn Barkey's Instagram - @evelynbarkeyEvelyn Barkey's website - www.evelynbarkey.comDaughters of INDIE - www.daughtersofindie.comMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

If you're a portrait or wedding photographer, you're likely still on the journey of learning how to connect with your clients more effortlessly and figuring out how to make them feel comfortable with you during portrait time. I know this will always be a practice for me as well and so I'm thrilled to be sharing the episode with you where I learned a thing or two myself! Lydia Ivy expands on the importance of thinking inwards, directing outwards, and syncing up and how it can have a positive effect on the energy of your upcoming portrait sessions and weddings!If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES + LINKS:Lydia Ivy Photography's Instagaram - @lydiaivyphotographyMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do you want to feel super organised and efficient this season with your shooting schedule and also with how you book new clients for sessions!? If so, tune in to this episode as I break down the 5 steps I took to prep my booking calendar for the whole season in advance so that you have even more time and space, even when things get more busy!I didn't really utilize a booking calendar for all these years since I specialized in only weddings and about 50% of my couples booked an engagement session so it felt manageable for me.Now I have the podcast, so I use that for guest to schedule their time. I'm open to other sessions since I have the space and time in my calendar so I started to use my booking calendar.Setting it up now as the weather gets nicer and inquiries start coming in so that you're well prepared and emails can be more fun and effortless to go through when it's all efficiently set up!Step 1 - Decide what sessions you will offerStep 2 - Decide the length of sessions you will offerStep 3 - Decide what days of the week you will have available for sessionsStep 4 - Choose a booking calendar systemStep 5 - Set your availability in the calendarBONUS tip - Remember to keep it updated as your schedule shiftsIf you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES + LINKS:The Crystal Clear Marketing mini-courseThe Shine + Thrive Photography Community Facebook groupMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

The following words are by Vianney which will give you a peek into what this empowering episode is all about! "If you align your lifestyle, business, health, fitness and well-being to your menstrual cycle then you can picture yourself saying buh-bye to period pain, low energy, mood swings, and feeling like a crazy b*tch all the time! Imagine knowing when exactly in your cycle to work, rest, play, set goals, plan, manifest, spend time alone, start a new hobby and/or habit when to speak in public, or even launch a new product in your business!"In this episode, Vianney sheds light on how she went from having excruciating periods, to empowering ones! If you are a woman that has not yet learned how to sync your life to your period, then you are in for a treat! Make sure to tune into this mind-blowing episode!In this episode we dove into:The phases/seasons of our cycle and what superpowers each one holdsHow to plan our weeks ahead of time around our cycleWhat can photographers do to prep themselves for a hard day of work during their bleeding phaseHow your subconscious mind is connected to your menstrual cycleFoods to east during each phase/seasonHow to use the inner summer phase to make more money!If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES + LINKS:Status Flow Collective Instagram - @statusflow.coVianney's free masterclass - The Power of Your Menstrual Cycle:5 Ways To Replace Pain with Creativity, Productivity & PeaceEpisode 30: The Ultimate Guide to Eating To Sync With Your Cycle, Phase by Phas‪e‬My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Have you ever had a moment in your photography career that was so embarrassing that you said to yourself "ugh I could really just crawl into a hole and hide forever" or "well at least I have a funny story to tell!". Well whether you have or you haven't, this episode is going to be entertaining because 9 photographers (including myself), share some of the most embarrassing shit that has happened to us while we were shooting or dealing with clients. So hit play on this episode if you're in the mood to have your jaw drop to the ground a few times and you just feel like a good laugh!If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES + LINKS:Aubrey Boonstra Instagram- @aubreyjanephotoSachin Khona Instagram - @sachinkhona, The Arc Creative PodcastDawn Charles Instagram- @dawn.charlesDustin Newhook Instagram- @11elevenpmdBekah Vieira Instagram- @bekah.fay.photographyMartin Cheung Instagram - @martincphotographyJosie Nicole Baerg Instagram - @josienicolephotoJohn Mansfield Instagram - @allheartphotoMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

I loved my deep chat with Jessy + Brandon of Bows & Lavender all about taking care of your mental health as a photographer, what inspires them to create such milky, moody images full of feeling, how to overcome self-doubt and their Costa Rica adventures in their off season!🙂If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES + LINKS:Bows & Lavander websiteBows & Lavander Instagram - @bowsandlavenderBrandon Gouveia's Instagram - @brandon.stillsMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do ever wonder how to reply to emails that say "thanks so much for the info, but unfortunately you're out of our budget", or "you're out of our budget, but is there any way you can offer us a discount"? In this episode I share with you how I respond to those emails in a way that helps them see the value in what I offer and sometimes even increase their photography budget!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

In this episode, Anastasia of Olive Photography shares with you her approach to navigating wedding reschedules and cancellations from a more logical and legal perspective. This is Part 2 of a 2 part series (go listen to Episode #52 before you tune into this one), so that you can get two different perspectives and two different approaches! My hope is that by the end of these two episodes, you will have gathered ideas of what will work best for you on how to navigate this situation for yourself.What I want you to know is there is no one size fits all way to go about this. We are all going through a different storm (for some it's sprinkling rain and for others it's a full on hurricane). We each have our own unique challenges that we are facing.To some of you my approach may speak to you from episode #52, and to some of you Anastasia's will in this episode! That's why I wanted to create this 2 part series for you! To show you that even if we have different ways of doing things, we can still be in it together, learn from one another without judgement, and most of all, respect one another as humans, because after all, we are all in this thing called life together. Who are we to judge how someone else is doing things when we really don't know the nuance of their situation.  All we can do is simply offer support and ideas with compassion, and let others take their own journey.My teaching style is meant to provide you with a perspective you may have not thought of before and then empower you to make your own choices. I'm not here saying you SHOULD do anything. I'm here tell you that to all the questions you have, the answers are within you. All you have to do is know how to listen to them.If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES + LINKSOlive Photography InstagramMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

In this episode, I will share with you my mindset around my approach to navigating wedding reschedules and cancellations and what has been working for me. This will be a 2 part series so that you can get two different perspectives and two different approaches!  In Part 2, which will be the following episode #53 , you'll hear from Anastasia from Olive Photography on the approach that she has been using.My hope is that by the end of these two episodes, you will have gathered ideas of what will work best for you on how to navigate this situation for yourself.What I want you to know is there is no one size fits all way to go about this. We are all going through a different storm (for some it's sprinkling rain and for others, it's a full-on hurricane). We each have our own unique challenges that we are facing.To some of you, my approach may speak to you, and to some of you Anastasia's will! That's why I wanted to create this 2 part series for you! To show you that even if we have different ways of doing things, we can still be in it together, learn from one another without judgement, and most of all, respect one another as humans because after all, we are all in this thing called life together. Who are we to judge how someone else is doing things when we really don't know the nuance of their situation.  All we can do is simply offer support and ideas with compassion, and let others take their own journey.My teaching style is meant to provide you with a perspective you may have not thought of before and then empower you to make your own choices. I'm not here saying you SHOULD do anything. I'm here to tell you that to all the questions you have, the answers are within you. All you have to do is know how to listen to them.If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES + LINKSThink Like a Monk Book | Jay ShettyMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Are you currently in a job that drains you often think to yourself "if only I could go full time with my photography business, I would be so much happier and fulfilled!"? If so, this episode was literally made for you! Carly shares the story of her journey of how she quit the job she hated in order to go full time with being a portrait + wedding photographer, even though she was scared!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES + LINKSCarly Kratzer's InstagramCarly Kratzer Photography's websiteMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

In this episode, I open up about what the 75 Hard Challenge is and why I'm doing it! It's a challenge that cultivates mental toughness by sticking to 6 daily practices that will help make you mentally, emotionally + physically stronger!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES + LINKS75hard.comGallon Water BottleThink Like a Monk Book | Jay ShettyMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

One of the most powerful things you can do in your business is to know your numbers. And not just how much you're earning and how much your expenses are (those are really important too), but also how many leads you get from different sources! Knowing where your leads are coming from and which leads generate the most bookings for you is so important for 2 reasons! Tune in to find out what those reasons are!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES + LINKSCrystal Clear Marketing Mini CoursePixifiUse coupon code SARAMONIKA to try Pixifi for two months for FREE!ZapierEpisode 5: How to Make More Money as a Wedding PhotographerMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Daniel and his wife Davina have enjoyed 12 years as traveling wedding photographers in the industry which they chose to retire from in 2018. They are also co-founders of The Image Salon, a photo editing company that helps you outsource without compromise. As they go through this journey called life together, they follow their curiosity fearlessly and with the belief that everything will always work out. The way their approach life + business inspires me and I hope it'll inspire you too :)If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES + LINKSClick here to get 25% off the first order with The Image Salon for first-time users40% Off for existing The Image Salon clients! Use the coupon code - SARAMONIKA40Journey to the Heart by Melody BeattieDaniels's Instagram - @danielkudish, @davinaplusdaniel, @imgsalon, @spiritual.lyMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

I share with you my journey of how I went from $69,000 to $137,000 in revenue in one year so that you can learn from my journey and see that it's possible for you too! I also share where my referrals came from and how I attracted them, which led to so many more bookings than I've ever had before. There is more than enough to go around and I want the same success for you!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES:Crystal Clear Marketing (Micro Course)Jeff JochumMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do you ever wonder how I, and other photographers, attract and book their dream clients!? Truuuussst me. I was there once too! Totally clueless and desperate to know how! If you wanna know how I turned my business around from hearing a lot of crickets to doubling my income in one year, then tune in my friend, and find out what marketing mindset you need to know about!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.In this episode I chatted about:How do you get to work with your dream clients and also fearlessly show up as yourselfAn exercise that can help market yourself and what sets you on fire to attract your ideal clientsRESOURCES:Crystal Clear Marketing (Micro Course)My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

I'm giving you a sneak peek into the Ask Me Anything live Q+A's I host in the Shine + Thrive Podcast Community. In this one, I shared the number one thing to spend your time on to get noticed and book more, how to overcome comparisonitis + imposter syndrome, how to build a wedding photography portfolio if you've never shot a wedding before, and how to set boundaries with clients!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.In this episode I share:How to spend your time in order to get notice and get bookingTop three tips to overcome comparisonitis and imposter syndromeHow to get your first wedding opportunities with no experience beforeRESOURCES:Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon SinekMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Every year at this time I choose to slow down, reflect on my year, go inward, and from there decide on my SMART goals full of HEART that are in alignment with what I desire in this chapter of my life. I share with you what it means for us to be headed to Universal Year 5, and I share with you the 3 steps I took to create new beliefs and goals that will help empower me to become the best version of myself. The best part is that you can come along on this journey with me because I've created a free guide that walks you through step-by-step on what I did and how so you can get cozy and work on creating your own new set of beliefs and goals too!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.In this episode I share:[04:04] I shared what it means for us to be headed to Universal Year 5[16:05]  3 Steps I Took to Plan My Goals for 2021RESOURCES:Full Focus PlannerCreative NumerologyThe Halo (Full Moon) with Stephanie Williams MorrisonTraction by Gino WickmanDownload the FREE guide here.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

I believe that taking a look back and reflecting on the wins and lessons that you experienced in 2020 (or in any year really!) are essential to gaining an understanding of where you are, and where you want to go! I bet you that even in 2020 you will find wins to celebrate. The big and the small! And sometimes even wins that may seem small in the moment, are actually the big ones in the long run. Also, lessons are a part of life that cultivate wisdom which can be passed down to yourself in the future if you feel stuck or share your experience with others so they can learn from you and maybe not have to experience those so called failures. Wins and lessons are a part of life and should be celebrated. And that's exactly what I'm sharing with you in today's episode :)In this episode I share:[05:46] The 13 wins (both personal and work-related) I experienced in 2020 [29:20] The 10 lessons (both personal and work-related) I experienced in 2020If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES:Event - Photographers UniteEverything is Figurable by Marie ForleoMe and White Supremacy by Layla SaadLimitless by Jim KwikTraction The Art of Making Memories by Meik WikingThe One Thing by Gary KellerMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

For those of you who have been thinking about introducing film photography into your craft or didn't even know it was an option but are now intrigued, this episode is for you! I had Caileigh Langford on the show to give us a peek into her world of being a hybrid wedding photographer. In today's episode we covered: What actually classifies someone as a hybrid photographer? Is going hybrid right for you? What are the costs of shooting film? How to get started shooting film, and much more!In today's episode we covered: What actually classifies someone as a hybrid photographer? Is going hybrid right for you?What are the costs of shooting film? How to get started shooting film, and much more!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES:Caileigh Langford’s websiteCaileigh’s InstagramMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

In this powerful episode, I chatted with Julia McLellan on how we as photographers, and more importantly, as fellow humans, can become more socially-conscious and eco-friendly in a way that creates true lasting change! We dove into how to houseclean our digital footprint, what actions to focus on to make the most sustainable impact on the planet, and what you can include in your wedding packages to support causes such as climate justice.In this episode, we talked about:How to set-up sustainable systems for your photography businessWhat existing system adjustments can work better for the environmentWhat ideas Julia shared to reduce digital consumption that affects usIndividual and community contributions to maintain social awarenessIf you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES:Julia McLellan's  Instagram handles@zerowastewarbler@canadiangreenalliance@juliaemilymclellan@coachwithjuliaMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Gathering testimonials/reviews can either feel like an extra thing on your to-do list, or a piece of cake! I've experienced both sides of the coin in my career and I've figured out the solution to getting consistent, emotion-filled testimonials and right away from clients! What if I told you that you can get tons of testimonials and 5-star reviews on Google with just one simple email? In this episode, I share with you the actual email I send to clients that you can copy and paste for yourself so that you gain more brand trust, online exposure, and local SEO, increased click-through rate, and convert more clients!In this episode I talked about:Why I DO NOT request my clients to write me a review or a testimonialHow I got the 70+ perfect 5-start reviews on GoogleI shared the exact email I send my couples to get those emotion-filled testimonialsIf you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES:Email Templates for Wedding PhotographersShine + Thrive FB CommunityMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Are you feeling stuck on how to raise your prices because you're scared that you'll stop getting bookings? My guest Sam of Samyan Photographie also felt this way, and today she shares how she was able to raise her rates after her coaching session with me (even during a pandemic) and still get bookings at her new rates! My hope is that this episode helps you to also raise your rates so that you make the income you dream of and deserve.In this episode we chatted about:Overcoming your fear around charging moreWhat Sam did with her downtime during COVID and how it became a huge successWhat helped her attract more of her ideal wedding clientsWhat she wishes she had known when she first started her photography businessIf you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.RESOURCES:Samyan Photographie websiteSam's Instagram05: The Easiest Way To Make More Money As a Wedding PhotographerMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

We all do it. We put that thing on our to-do list that we know needs to get done, and then we put it off, and put it off, and put it off. If you want to learn a quick mindset hack that you can apply into your life + business that will help you actually get the hard things done, then tune into this short but valuable episode!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEShine + Thrive Podcast Community Sara Monika’s Outsourcing Made Easy for Wedding Photographers online course.Wanna know how you can work less hours and make more money so that you never have to experience burn out ever again as a wedding photographer? Sign up for the waitlist so you can be the first to know when Outsourcing Made Easy doors open again!My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Are you tired of getting dull inquiry emails that just consist of "Hey! Looking for a photographer. Can I get your pricing and package info?" If that sounds like most of the inquiries you get in your inbox, then I have the solution for you since I share exactly what I do to get inquiries that are full of detail and personality! If you're wondering, "Hmm. But I don't see anything wrong with those inquiries," then let me tell you, there is a whole other world out there that I'm excited to show you 🙂I share with you2 examples of actual wedding inquiries I recently gotThe WHY behind the 10 things you need on your contact page to convert your leads into paying clientsWhat NOT to include on your contact pageTimestamps:[02:13] Why using the contact form to your advantage is not just about having a quality conversation with your clients.[02:40] I shared the 2 examples of inquires I recently got which are very different from the typical "can I get your pricing and package info" messages in your inbox.[05:46] The importance of having your photo on the contact page that is showing your face.[06:55] Attract your ideal clients by choosing a photo that represents your work really well. [08:00] These are the basic info you need to ask and will prevent unnecessary back and forth with your clients.[10:22] The strategic questions to ask to get to know them better and find out if they are the right fit for you and your shooting style. [12:50] Find out which of your marketing efforts is working best with this question.[14:20] I share the simplest questions that will make your client inquiries more informative and full of personality. Plus more question ideas for you![16:20] Is your submit button personalized? 80% of the photographers I coached weren't. [17:32] Bonus Hack: remove this piece of information from your contact form to connect with your potential clients more.[18:14] Bonus Tip: form an instant connection with them by this personalized approach to inquiries that will increase the possibility to book you.RESOURCES:My contact pageMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

If you've ever wondered how I set up my week and spend my days, you'll love this episode! As photographers, I thought you'd like to see what a 6-figure wedding photographer does in a week. I hope this gives you a fun behind-the-scenes peek at the ins and outs of my life. You'll hear it all, what I focus on, what I struggle with, and how I handle all of it! I share it all including:How I plan out my days so I get the most out of themA behind-the-scenes peek into working on my new course I'm creating all about how I document wedding days authenticallyHow I'm getting prepped to create a community of Shine + Thrive listeners and to show up live for you more often to answer your questions live!Being honest when things don't go as planned with working outHow I stay organized with posting to InstagramThe planner I'm OBSESSED with and how I use itWhen during the week I outsource certain tasks to my editor and my VATIMESTAMPS[03:35] Friday morning, I started the day with my protein shake. Recorded a snippet for this podcast. Reviewed edits from the Image Salon and sent it to my virtual assistant. Got my hair done after 8 months. Rory and I went to a 15k. And then I got ready for a wedding for the next day.[12:50] Saturday morning was a wedding day. I took a nature stroll before going to the wedding and went over any notes that I have to remind myself of the couple's story. The wedding ended up right on time and enjoyed an evening with Rory.[16:08] I made sure to back up the images from yesterday and then I sent the catalog to my VA. I put away the laundry, cleaned the kitchen, and vacuumed. Purchased groceries online for the first time. Did yoga with Rory and went a really long walk together with Abby. And since it is a Sunday, I made sure to plan my week ahead using my Full Focus Planner.Please see the rest of the timestamps in the show notes HERE.RESOURCESAffiliate link - Full Focus PlannerAffiliate link - Image SalonMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do you find yourself losing control when it comes to food? And by losing control I mean giving into cravings that lead to binge eating to the point that it makes you feel sick? If you're tired of feeling out of control, then this episode is a great one to tune into since both Amber and I get vulnerable and share our binge eating journey's to show you that you are not alone and it's possible to get yourself out of that cycle! She shares some tips on how you can slowly start healing.If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.TIMESTAMPS[07:18] Amber talks about her response to business owners saying that they don't have time to eat healthily.[10:10] Amber shares her story of food addiction and how she started with her health journey.[18:37] Mindset tricks from Amber that can help stop binge eating.[24:40] Amber shares how she can help uncover reasons why a person is an emotional eater.[29:30] Amber suggests food that can help nourish the brain and boost energy.RESOURCES + LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODENo Sugar Coating PodcastAmber Romaniuk's Instagram - @amberromaniukAmber Romaniuk' websiteMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Are you feeling nervous about hitting burn out in 2021 with more doubleheaders and possibly even triple headers coming your way? Are you loving your life this year in 2020 with how much more free time you have on your hands and wish that every wedding season felt more effortless? If so, tune in so I show you that it's possible for you to still book more weddings in 2021, make more money, and not having to sacrifice your well-being in the meantime!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.TIMESTAMPS[04:42] This limiting belief and fear may be holding you back in your life + career.[09:10] I share the most important thing that you need to do right away to start living a life with more freedom and money in a sustainable way.[12:12] What if the worst case scenario happened and all your weddings move to the following year? I show you the positive behind that![17:24] I share how it's possible for you to not be overworked while still shooting more weddings than you're used to in 2021 and still deliver an amazing experience to your couples.RESOURCES + LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE33: The Top 8 Tasks I Get My Virtual Assistant to DoFree live webinar: The 4 Secrets to Making More Money + Avoiding Burnout as a Wedding PhotographerMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

I'm so excited to dive in to give you a glimpse into what my Virtual Assistant Rachel helps me out with! I'll be sharing the tasks I outsource to my VA and I'll be basing the time saved on 25 weddings per year since sometimes I shoot more, but more or less, but I also know most photographers aim to book around 25 a year on average. I'll share with you the amount of hours I save on average per task, and then at the end I'll tally up how much I save on average per year, per month, per week, and how much it costs me so you can get inspired to start thinking of bringing on a VA to help you work less and make more money!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.TIMESTAMPS[04:35] The tasks I outsource to my VA and the average amount of hours I save per task.[13:06] I share the total hours I outsource in a year and break it down to how much time I save per week on average.[14:10] I share how much it will cost you to outsource tasks to your VA![16:26] A little backstory when I started to outsource three years ago.[19:44] Here I share a hack that can help you maximize your VA even more!RESOURCES + LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEFree live webinar: The 4 Secrets to Making More Money + Avoiding Burnout as a Wedding PhotographerMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Have you ever had a moment in your photography career that was so embarrassing that you said to yourself "ugh I could really just crawl into a hole and hide forever" or "well at least I have a funny story to tell"? Well whether you have or you haven't, this episode is going to be entertaining because 7 photographers (including myself), share some of the most embarrassing shit that has happened to us while we were shooting. So hit play on this episode if you're in the mood to have your jaw drop to the ground a few times and you just feel like a good laugh!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.TIMESTAMPS[02:26] Sara Monika sharing her embarrassing story.[08:41] Laura Clarke sharing her embarrassing story.[12:41] Carly Kratzer sharing her embarrassing story.[19:07] Lauren Goodlad sharing her embarrassing story.[25:29] Christina Stirpe sharing her embarrassing story.[28:30] Carrie Ouellette sharing her embarrassing story.[32:10] Katie Marie sharing her embarrassing story.RESOURCES + LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEBook Your Coaching Session with Sara MonikaLaura Clarke InstagramCarly Kratzer InstagramLauren Goodlad InstagramChristina Stirpe InstagramCarrie Ouellette InstagramKatie Marie InstagramMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Do you feel like you want to evolve your shooting style but have no idea how to transition? Also, are you feeling stuck with how you'll be able to attract new clients that want to book you for that new style when it's not in your portfolio yet? It's such a predicament isn't it!? 6 years ago, I successfully transitioned my wedding shooting style from a high focus on details and picture-perfect background and poses to specializing and getting hired for my documentary style approach to photographing weddings. Tune in to find out how you can do so as well in just 3 steps!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.TIMESTAMPS[02:54] My story on how I personally experienced the need to transition my shooting style 6 years ago.[06:11] I go into explaining the 3 steps I took in order to transition from perfect and posed photos to documentary-style photos which can help you, too.[07:22]  I expand on Step 1 which is to Decide on what you want your new shooting style to be.[10:11] I expand on Step 2 which is to communicate with your current clients and your audience of how you are shifting your shooting style.[13:47]  I expand on step 3 which is to Share your new style of work to get the ball rolling and start attracting your ideal clients.RESOURCES + LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEBook Your Coaching Session with Sara MonikaMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

The way that the year 2020 turned out shocked and surprised most of us. It also affected the goals we set for the year. Understandably, it lead to feeling lost, disconnected, and lacking clarity. On episode 10 of this podcast, I talked about chasing “unrealistic” dreams and actually achieving them and I shared the 10 goals I had for the year 2020. That episode turned out to be one of the most popular ones so I decided to make a follow-up episode to help you reset your 2020 goals and get back to that sense of direction. Timestamps:[02:57] A couple of announcements about the podcast and the coaching sessions I offer.[07:58] On Episode 10 of Shine + Thrive podcast I shared with you how to chase “unrealistic” dreams and actually achieve them. So many of you found that episode super helpful. Because of everything that has happened this year, many of us are feeling lost with our direction and goals. This is a follow-up episode to Episode 10 and it’s all about what to do with the goals you set out with for the year and how to regain that sense of purpose. [10:51] When life happens, it’s perfectly normal to apply the 4 R’s to your goals - recommit, revise, replace, remove. [11:47] The 10 goals I set out with this year and what happened with them once the pandemic hit. [19:44] Resetting the goals for 2020 and applying the 4 R’s. Resources:Book Your Coaching Session with Sara MonikaMy affiliate link for the Full Focus PlannerFocus on This podcast, episode 32 “Five Ways to Shift Goals in Crisis” Focus on This podcast episode 41 “How to Deal With Setbacks” Shine + Thrive podcast Episode 10, “How to Chase Unrealistic Dreams and Actually Achieve Them” Episode 154 by Manifestation Babe My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Since the George Floyd incident sparked so much shock and sadness around the world leading to protests and BIPOC voices becoming more amplified, I dove into social media to learn more from the BIPOC community. A huge thanks goes out to @thebirdspapaya for speaking up and using her platform, because with her doing so, I realized it wasn't ok to stay silent anymore since white silence is compliance. And if we are compliant (we referring to white people), we are part of the problem (whether it's intentional or unintentional). I had the realization that if she could influence me to speak up, then I can do the same for others. I CAN help make a difference and help create a ripple effect towards ending racial and social injustice. If we take the time NOW to pause, listen, and learn about the pain the BIPOC community is experiencing and WHY, then we can use that new found understanding and our voices to help moving forward. To BE the change.I now have a fire inside of me to do better and be better. One of the ways I'm doing so is by recognizing my white privilege and acknowledging that I have done things in the past that have hurt the BIPOC community EVEN if it was unintentional. It was ignorance that had me believing that racism is not as bad as anymore, but as soon as my eyes became wide open and I chose to look at what is actually going on (even if that meant feeling uncomfortable), I can't be ignorant anymore. And if you are feeling uncomfortable right now as a white person, I urge to lean into it, simply listen to this episode, and it'll help you BEGIN to realize WHY it hurts the BIPOC coommunity so much when we stay ignorant or silent. I'm not saying it'll be comfortable to listen to, but it's necessary.Timestamps:[13:50] The story behind the video Saori + DeVante created on Instagram about how the photography industry can support the BIPOC community.[21:55] To be part of the change, you should go just beyond the feed, you have to do the inner work.[25:48] Knowing the difference between being a non-racist and an anti-racist and the struggles people of color face in and out of the industry.[44:05] The typical presets/edits will not work on skin of colour, learn how to edit melanated (black) skin. [55:05] If you are in the industry, take a stand and use your platform to speak out for the BIPOC community.[59:45] Calling out feature accounts to add diversity to their portfolio to be more inclusive.[66:32] How diversifying your vendor referral list in the industry can create a great impact.Resources:Saori + DeVante of Spirit of RevelrySaori + DeVante's video calling out the photography industry to support BIPOC community"Me and White Supremacy" by Layla Saad (book)Watch 13th on NetflixGo to www.saramonika.com/29 and get your free checklist :)Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

On Part 2 of my conversation with Clarissa DiGioacchino we discuss ways in which you can become more effective at solving problems and being resourceful both in your business and your personal life. Where’s the line between being inspired by others and starting to compare yourself to them? And how to apply creative thinking to your problem-solving approach and creating solutions? If you want to hear Part 1 of our conversation, make sure to listen to the previous episode that’s all about the emotional transition curve and being self-aware. Timestamps:[07:33] Resourcefulness and the ability to problemsolve is the key to being an entrepreneur. Anyone can learn to be a problem solver. And it all comes down to the way you look at a problem and ask yourself, how you can work through it? Entrepreneurs solve their clients’ problems. [17:42] The three skills that can that can help you form better problem solving abilities and three aspects that dampen them.[23:34] How to figure out when it’s time to soak in inspiration from others and when it’s time to head off on your own journey without comparing yourself to others?[33:44] Resourcefulness and problem sovling ability are both tied with creative thinking, too. Creative thinking is a skill that anyone can use to see how they approach problems and build solutions to these problems.Resources:Clarissa on Instagram Golden Hour Photography on Facebook Part 1 of my conversation with Clarissa on the previous Shine + Thrive episode Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo Go to www.saramonika.com/28 and get your free worksheet :)My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Being self-aware of our emotions can not only help us as business owners but can also help serving our clients to the best of our abilities. We’re all familiar with going from high highs to low lows, having moments of exceptional excitement and then later finding ourselves slide into self-doubt and negative talk. Turns out, there is actually something behind it and it’s the Emotional Transition Curve. To help better understand it and how it ties into our personal and business lives I am joined by Clarissa DiGioacchino who I recently connected with as a kindred spirit. Clarissa is not only a wedding and small business branding specialist, but is also a highly successful entrepreneur keen to share her knowledge. This is Part 1 of our conversation.[03:54] Sometimes new connections form when we least expect them to. Clarissa DiGioacchino reached out to me by sending me a voice message. It immediately resonated with me. We connected over Skype and brainstormed about all the things we wanted to share with you on Shine + Thrive podcast. Her journey is so interesting and I wanted to introduce you to Clarissa and her story before we got into talking about the emotional transition curve.[08:11] What is emotional transition curve and why it matters in our lives? Understanding yourself and understanding emotional is something that can help serve your clients and yourself as a business owner.[10:31] The five stages of emotional transition curve and what they are. Many of us are already aware of them subconsciously - having high excitement periods are low periods of crisis and looking for meaning.[20:37] How to have empathy for others and understand where they are on the transition curve? How that can help us recognize what others need from us and how we can be there for our clients?[34:00] The hierarchy of needs. How the emotional transition curve ties into our own hiearchy of needs and that of our clients?[39:50] Reducing our clients’ cognitive load and being there for them as best as we can.Resources:Clarissa on Instagram Golden Hour Photography on Facebook The Kübler-Ross model or The Five Stages of Grief My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Introspection and looking inwards - two very powerful things that can help you during a time of little or no motivation to find your inner balance and alignment with what you truly want and what makes you happy. I want to help people lead their best lives, but recently I was feeling depleted and didn’t have the motivation to do that. I felt so guilty about it. My body was telling me I needed to take care of myself first, before I could help others. So I did that. With this episode, I want to inspire you to let go of feelings of guilt, embrace what your body and mind is telling you, and look inside yourself to rediscover your happiness. Timestamps:[02:55] Past couple of weeks have been harder to deal with. I had no motivation from mid-March to the beginning of April. I worked so hard on creating my online course and it got me feeling burnt out. I hadn't done that to myself for years. Through introspection I realised that some things were out of balance. I went inward and rediscovered what I need to feel harmonious in my life[10:41] Starting to feel energised again. My motivation behind recording my podcast has always been to inspire people. I didn't have the energy to create or to inspire, but I knew other people who did so the past couple of episodes on Shine + Thrive podcast featured people who had been inspiring to me in my life and I wanted to pass it forward.[12:00] During this time, going on Instagram and seeing motivational posts, I realised I wasn’t ready for them. I found healing and motivation through looking inward and that’s what I want to invite you to do - without outside influence, discover the things that are essential to your happiness.[14:17] What I discovered through introspection and the things that are essential to my happiness. From music and dancing to relationships and much more. Follow your curiosity and you might be surprised by what you find out about yourself! Resources:Stephanie Morrison's 6-week custom meditation course My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

During these uncertain times, many of us are forced to slow down and explore not only ourselves but also our foundations in life. How to be truly present and achieve a level of consciousness that connects you to your inner purpose and allows you to release past traumas? To talk about this, I’ve invited my good friend Stephanie Morrison, whose 6-week meditation course I’ve been recently taking. We dive deep into understanding the significant power of meditation, letting go of old paradigms, and living life in alignment. Timestamps:[05:38] The year of 4. Astrology + numerology as two significant languages that the universe uses to speak to us. And from a numerology perspective, the year 2020 is the year of 4. Stephanie explains what it means, how masculine and feminine energies come into play, and why it’s so important to find sustainability in the long run. [22:00] Masculine energy is directly linked to overthinking, and it can really stand in the way of living life in the present moment. How to achieve a true sense of being present and a pure level of consciousness? [31:30] Stephanie created a 6-week meditation course that consists of custom daily meditations, daily journal prompts, affirmations and mantras, and tools that help you work with your energy. I’ve been taking Stephanie’s course and I’m sharing my experience from it. I love being open and vulnerable, even if it means sharing moments of past hurts as I know it can encourage you to explore the path of acceptance, too. [53:55] Not everyone feels like they are ready for meditation. For some, it’s easy to go straight to excuses while others feel intimidated by meditation. How to combat this and embrace the freeing practice of meditation without expectations and assumptions? [59:16] Stephanie shares her energy healing techniques to release past traumas or blocks that keep you from living life in the present. Resources:Stephanie’s 6-week custom meditation course Book: The Surrender Experiment Book: The Power of Now Book: A New Earth - Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose Stephanie’s The Halo Events SubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

What stops you from embracing who you are fully and wholeheartedly? How to follow your own unique path unapologetically? We’ve all been held back by something at one point or another, but nothing feels more liberating than finally letting go and embracing what feels the truest to who you are. To shed light on this, I’m joined by Chuy from Chuy Photo, who has experienced all of this first hand and his approach? Saying - FUNK IT! Chuy is an inspiring creative whose unique take on photographing couples gets everyone's’ jaws to drop and he joins me on this episode to inspire you to let go of fear and funk it up. Timestamps:[05:00] Funk. Funk it. Funk you. Chuy Photo is all about the funk and it’s interesting to know, where it all began and how he came to embrace this “funk it” attitude that his brand is all about. [09:27] The process of creation. Documenting couples in a unique way, letting your unique vision shine through + how being an introvert/extrovert affects not only the shooting process but also the whole working process.[15:45] Journey from self-constraint to self-expression. What happens when after following a path that someone else wants for you, you gather up the courage to finally embrace who you actually are or feel like you’re meant to be?[30:00] It’s okay to figure things out along the way. Many of us can start out on a journey with one goal in mind and find that only along the way we really figure out what we’re after. Getting comfortable vs. chasing what you want. [35:45] Feeling paralysed by the fear of negative judgment and how to unleash your true self when all you can think about is, “What will others think of me?” It’s not unusual for all of us to be paralysed by some kind of fear, but Chuy shares a phrase that someone once told him that, honestly, should become a mantra for all of us fearing judgment from others. [1:03:07] Chuy photographs his couples feeling comfortable in their own skin and loving life, so I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to ask him, doing what he does, has he always felt comfortable being around couples and shooting them being intimate.[1:11:25] Chuy is not only an inspiring photographer, but also a passionate educator, who wants to share his “funk it” approach with other creatives, so at the end of our conversation, he shared a little more about his Community of Funkers. Resources:Chuy Photo 6-week meditation course @chuyphoto lives videoFunk You Workshop My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoWith love + gratitude,Sara

It’s all about having the right mindset. In a time when we find ourselves in a lot of uncertainty and self-isolating at home, it can be a great time to ask the right questions like, "How can I be the best that I can be during this time for myself and for others?” I spoke to Viara Mileva, a psychologist-turned-photographer, about great ways that photographers can bring in more income while stuck at home during COVID-19. Both Viara and I share what we do in our business, and encourage you to also see the strengths in yourself that you can further share with your community online. Timestamps:[04:23] My guest on this episode is Viara Mileva. She has a Phd in parent + child interactions and even though she is a psychologist-turned-photographer, she still thinks like a scientist. It’s super interesting to hear Viara’s story and what made her choose photography as her second career and why she loves documenting families so much. [12:38] A fun little lightning round of questions to get to know Viara better before we dive into talking about our tips and ideas for bringing in more income as a photographer. [15:00] Viara shares a very interesting poll that a business coach Todd Herman did involving 29 top CEOs. He found that there are three types of people and how greatly their mindsets differ and how things like the way we think and the language we use can affect our success. [20:08] Even though we find ourselves in a time of a lot of uncertainty, Viara tells how growing up in Bulgaria in a time when the communist regime fell actually helped her brace these times more calmly. [26:09] Action steps, ideas, and advice for photographers from both Viara and I that can help you bring in more income while stuck at home. [1:03:42] In the end, Viara offers a little mindset exercise that all of us can do to improve not only our self worth but also the way we see value that we bring to the world. Resources:Viara’s wedding photography website Viara’s wedding photography on Instagram Viara’s family + other photography work on Instagram Viara’s general photography website Viara’s workshop for folks in self-isolation GumroadImage Source Westend Stocksy Kayla Yestal's Fine Art Print Shop  My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoWith love + gratitude,Sara

In a time of a lot of uncertainty, it’s easy to go down a path of feeling rough, uninspired, and low energy, but it can also lead to self-discovery and, as my guest on today’s episode, Jennifer Moher, says, “Creating art in a time of confusion.” On this episode, Jen and I cover topics that will hopefully uplift and inspire you during this difficult time - everything from embracing authentic ways of expression in photography to exploring random non-photography creative outlets as a form of inspiration. Timestamps:[03:24] If you look at Jen’s Instagram account, it immediately stands out - her creative style is both bold and beautiful with the way she uses negative space. Jen talks about how her style has evolved over the years and what role minimalism played in the way she expresses herself creatively through Instagram now.[09:01] As artists we have to expand and grow by experimenting, trying new things that we are drawn to, but that maybe don't make sense in our minds. It can be so scary to go there if we know our income relies on that. I ask Jen what inspired her to follow her heart and what feedback and results she got from it.[14:29] A lot of Jen’s work on Instagram is black and white, even though she stresses that she does shoot in colour, too. So it’s interesting to hear how embracing the black and white affects her editing process and the presets she uses. Here we also talk about comparing your work with other photographers, the feelings of envy, and how to document weddings authentically.[22:50] As artists, and as humans, in fact, we sometimes find ourselves stuck in a rut - uninspired and low energy. Especially now, with Covid-19, anxiety levels and the feelings of uncertainty run high. What to do to get ourselves out of a creative rut? How to get excited when we’re feeling down? Interestingly, Jen finds a lot of inspiration in random non-photography creative outlets that might be fun to explore now for the rest of us.[35:06] How rough experiences and being bullied may lead to feeling more comfortable with who you are and embracing yourself further down the road and how to show up authentically, especially when feeling trapped?[41:03] Talking about Jen’s Self Portrait Project.Resources:Jen’s Self Portrait Project Jennifer Moher on Instagram Jennifer Moher’s website Slate & Ivory presets A black & white The X-Files episode that Jen mentions as one of her creative inspirations for black and white photographyMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right

I’m thrilled to have Sandra Monaco as a guest on this episode of Shine + Thrive, where she shares her story as a wedding photographer and how feeling burnt out and even not feeling like getting out of bed in the mornings led her to embracing outsourcing to see her life and her business change for the better. This episode is all about how to stop playing catch up in your business, putting an end to outsourcing shame, and regaining the most valuable thing in life - time. Timestamps[05:20] Sandra didn’t start out as a wedding photographer. Interestingly enough, she was massively into the car scene early on and only gradually progressed towards photographing weddings. Sandra talks about her background, working in telecommunications, and booking her first wedding shoot - a destination wedding in Jamaica. [08:29] Life before outsourcing, goals that seemed out of reach, and investing tens of thousands of dollars into workshops that just weren’t worth it. Interestingly, Sandra was already familiar with many of the things I teach in my outsourcing workshop that she took, but, in her own words, "I already used everything you mentioned, but I didn't use it right.”[15:00] Grinding and hustling to get to a six figure income and how things changed after implementing the outsourcing lessons Sandra learned in my workshop. Having more space and energy to take on more bookings that eventually bring in more revenue.[18:39] What burnout felt like, and why talking about outsourcing felt like coming out of the closet. There is a need to get rid of outsourcing shame because getting help doesn’t mean that you work less - everything still goes through quality control and in the end, it’s still the photographer’s work that the client is getting.[22:24] It used to take 16 hours for Sandra to do a full edit from start to finish. That was before outsourcing. Now, she is able to only spend 2 hours on checking the edits AND culling. 16 hours vs. 2. That’s how huge the effect of outsourcing is - the amount of time you’re able to get back to spend on things that matter most.[29:43] Sandra on taking my outsourcing course + advice she has for anyone feeling stuck.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

There is something we all do sometimes and it’s complaining and feeling like we are our circumstances. I know what it's like getting stuck in the stories that are replying in your mind that you might not even be aware of. But it’s time to put an end to that. On this quick pep talk episode I want to inspire you to change your mindset towards getting yourself out the circumstances that feel limiting. You are incredibly resourceful and you have the power to make a change by investing in yourself and regaining control of your life. It’s not okay for us to be overworked anymore.Timestamps[04:18] Complaining and feeling like victims of our circumstances is something we all do sometimes. But I’m here to tell you that you are not your circumstances.[09:14] Before every new wedding season I hear photographers make jokes about being overworked, stuck, and not being able to spend time with friends and family. Even worse, this state of mind often affects interaction with couples (aka your clients). In my outsourcing for wedding photographers workshop I teach how to tackle this.[13:09] Where you are right now as a wedding photographer doesn't mean that these circumstances have to stay as they are forever. Choose your path! There will be mistakes along the way, but don’t let that discourage you.[16:59] If you want something bad enough, there are ways of making that happen. Be resourceful, invest in yourself, and see an immediate return on your investment. My experience with investing in myself and in my business to inspire you to do the same.[20:40] How investing in yourself can take your business and your personal life to a whole new level. Making things happen for yourself that you once thought impossible.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

In this episode I am joined by Julian + Kelly, a husband and wife wedding photographer duo, who know all to well what it’s like to come to a point where your business starts running you and not the other way around. From being overworked and thinking, “This is the year something will change,” and then being consumed in the same hamster wheel all over again (and on top of that, falling very sick because of burnout) to finally getting their lives back and attaining more balance and freedom in their business and personal life, Julian + Kelly share their journey on how they were able to make it happen for themselves.Timestamps[02:50] Julian + Kelly - their story in their own words. The journey towards photography and how their perception of what they do changed when they started working together as a married couple.[10:45] Life before outsourcing. Working together and pretty much being together 24/7 without actually being together as a couple was one of the reasons that led Julian + Kelly towards saying, “That’s enough. Something needs to change.”[17:29] Julian + Kelly talk about the steps they started taking after attending my outsourcing workshop and how it changed their business + personal life. [22:37] Your invitation to sign up for my free live Masterclass where you will learn "The 4 Secrets to Having More Free Time + Money as a Wedding Photographer" Sign up here www.saramonika.com/masterclass[30:57] Finally having the space for other things in life + how self-employed life, while offering more freedom, can quickly consume you unless you have the tools to change that. My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Are you wondering, how to authentically document people on wedding days? In this episode, I’m sharing with you my BIGGEST kept secret YET that will transform the way you’re able to connect not only with the bride + groom on wedding days, but also the family and friends. It’s a simple strategy and a real game changer that you can also implement in your workflow to create an even better experience for your couples (and everyone in the wedding) and to document moments more authentically than ever before on wedding days.Timestamp[02:08] A game-changing strategy to documenting people authentically on wedding days and what it all starts with. Getting to know the family and friends of the couple prior to the wedding. [03:30] Creating a template that allows you to easily organise and memorise people in the wedding. Being a 100% organised at this point will make things so much easier on the wedding day and allow you to create authentic connection with everyone.[05:18] Why doing your homework matters. There is a way you can instantly create a lasting connection with the most important people in the wedding from the moment you arrive. [07:47] An easy two-step technique you can use to memorise everything from the template you created. [10:25] Examples of how this technique works on a wedding day + how it literally BLOWS people's minds and creates connection.[14:27] Implement and experiment. How to make this happen for yourself + how you can implement this on your wedding days. Key things to remember! Resources: Family + Friends Questionnaire to Send to the Couples My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Outsourcing. It’s one of the best things you can do for yourself and your business. It frees up your time to do the things you love AND lets your earn more money. You know I love outsourcing, but it’s time to hear from someone else, too. Jessica Little is a successful wedding photographer who took my “Outsourcing Made Easy for Wedding Photographers” course and on this episode shares her journey and her advice with you. From feeling burnt out to rediscovering her passion for photography while earning more and having more time to spend with her family, and being able to take on more clients - here’s Jessica’s story. Timestamps[02:57] Jessica’s story - from having 2 full-time jobs to quitting and pursuing photography. [07:22] Road to outsourcing. It’s easy to get caught up in a never ending hamster wheel. This leads to naturally progressing towards outsourcing. [11:44] How Jessica’s life has changed since she did the “Outsourcing Made Easy for Wedding Photographers” course in October.[17:23] Positively addicted to outsourcing. Outsourcing challenges, expectations, and reality. Knowing what to keep and what to let go of.[24:23] Advice for photographers that are contemplating outsourcing. [28:38] Knowing your worth and changing your mindset towards outsourcing. How to get over the thought that hard work equals hustling real hard to feel worthy? [30:22] Jessica’s favourite benefits from outsourcing that she’s seeing in her life and business since taking the “Outsourcing Made Easy for Wedding Photographers” course. Resources“What Should You Outsource First as a Wedding Photographer” online quiz Jessica Little Photography Jessica Little on Instagram Join the waitlist to be the FIRST to know about my “Outsourcing Made Easy for Wedding Photographers” online course launch My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Outsourcing has been a game-changer for my business and my personal life which is why I am so passionate about it. And I want YOU to be able to fall in love with outsourcing, too. It is the number one tool that will help you earn more money by working less and allowing you to spend more time on things you enjoy doing most. I have put together real-life examples + real numbers from my own business to encourage you to give outsourcing a go.Resources:What Should You Outsource First as a Wedding Photographer Quiz Waitlist for my Outsourcing Made Easy for Wedding Photographers Online Course The Image Salon. Use code SARAMONIKA40 for 40% off your order at The Image Salon Timestamps:[02:40] It is a common fear to think that you will end up spending more if you outsource. In fact, it is one of the top reasons that keep photographers from outsourcing. With real-life examples + NUMBERS from my own business, I am showing you that it is actually the opposite.[06:05] Photographers, you know that shooting only takes up about 5-10% of your business, right? And often when we’re trying to wear all the hats, we end up focusing more on things that we don’t enjoy doing so much than the things we LOVE doing. Outsourcing is a tool that will allow you to actually focus on the things that you LOVE doing the most.[10:20] Feel like you’re running on a never-ending hamster wheel? Like you’re stressed out all the time and feeling burnt out during and after the wedding season? I know what it’s like but I also know that it doesn’t have to be that way. Outsourcing is a game-changer to allow you to never feel burnt out again.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

This episode is a little different than usual but it’s about a topic that we can all relate to - mental health. From time to time, we all struggle with feeling low energy, uninspired, even sad and lonely. At times like these, negative self-talk can quickly take over and drive us even further into feeling completely helpless. But know this - whether you have felt like this before or if you’re feeling a ton of pain right now, you are not alone and you matter! I want to share my mental health story with you because I know what it’s like and I want to help you see the light at the end of the tunnel and empower you to see the best in yourself and reach out if you need to.Timestamps:[03:23] Mental health journey. Even though I am super positive and bubbly person now, it took a lot of work for me to get to this point. I share with you my mental health struggles from back in the day. [10:04] I love you and you matter! Whether you have struggled with mental health issues or if you’re listening and feeling a lot of pain, know that you are not alone! Nobody should feel that pain and your experience can help others. [12:07] Realising that you are not your thoughts. How meditation played a game-changing role in my mental health journey and why it can be one of the most effective tools to use if you are also struggling.[18:12] Sharing a reading from a book that not only helped me but can also help you see things in a more positive light.Resources:Bell Let's Talk Headspace Affirmation Pod Journey to the Heart: Daily Meditations on the Path to Freeing Your Soul My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Every photographer comes to a point in their career where they have to face ONE important question - should I generalize or specialize? If you have ever wondered whether you should be photographing everything that comes your way or focus on shooting a particular niche, this episode is for you! By sharing my own experience from both ends of the spectrum, I want to make it easier for YOU to be able to figure out what your passion is and what’s right for your business. In this episode, I talk about the pros and cons of both generalizing and specializing, and how to figure out your WHY.Resources:Storey Wilkins https://www.storeywilkins.comJeff Jochum http://jeffjochum.comTimestamps:[01:41] Figuring out whether to generalize or specialize can help propel your business to where you want it to go. It has been a HUGE catalyst in my life and business. Even though I prefer specializing, there is no one right way, it’s about what sets YOUR soul on fire and what is right for YOU.[03:05] Sharing my experience from 9 years ago and how it lead me to figuring out what was right for my business. [05:10] Outlining the PROS and CONS of generalizing vs. specializing. This can help you decide which path is right for you.[09:01] A common fear when it comes to specializing - won’t it mean that you miss out on more bookings? No!  I share my experience with this to reassure you that the riches are in the niches. [11:15] Figuring out your WHY and what drives your decision. My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Let me ask you, is there anything you’ve been trying to let go of but find yourself going back to your old ways?For me, it was my food addiction. Doing a 30-day Candida cleanse allowed me to really look at my eating habits and what was holding me back. So in this episode, I share with you everything I went through, experienced, and learned during this 30-day Candida cleanse. Whether you are someone who has tried this yourself or been wanting to try it, or perhaps you are trying to challenge yourself in other ways, this episode is for you! Timestamps:[02:10] In August I noticed something in my body changing. I couldn’t figure out what it was and why it was happening so after seeing a naturopath, she suggested doing a 30-day Candida cleanse.[06:45] Candida diet and what foods were and were not allowed. Also some background on my food addiction. It’s so easy to make assumptions and think that food addiction looks and feels one particular way but just like any other addiction, it has many faces.[21:25] The 30-day Candida cleanse - from the first day to the last. I talk about the challenges I faced when I just started out and whether or not it got easier towards the end.[41:00] One month later. It’s important to not only reflect on how things are during any particular challenger or experiment but also look at what has changed afterwards. So how have my eating habits and my mindset changed one month after doing the Candida cleanse?Resources:Naturopath Dr. Halina Sroczynski The Addicted Mind podcast, episode 35 Habitty App Emily Jean Photography Smart Sweets SkinnyPop Ecstatic Dance (Chocolate Groove) - Candaclear Four The Life Coach School podcast, episode 285 My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

As photographers, we all want our clients to have the best possible experience when working with us. But I was surprised to find out that many photographers weren’t doing this one easy-to-do thing that makes a HUGE difference for the clients. And it has something to do with online wedding galleries. In this episode, I share with you one quick and effective thing you can start doing right NOW that will not only improve your photography client experience but as a result - improve your business altogether. Timestamps:[01:10] - Is there an off-season for photographers? [01:48] - One key thing for improving the client experience that many photographers aren’t doing. It only takes 10 minutes to implement but makes such a HUGE difference.[02:32] - What’s it like for the client when they have to go through hundreds of photos just to find one they are looking for on the online gallery.[03:30] - Why improving client experience matters. The happier the client, the more likely they are to refer you.Resources:Pixieset https://pixieset.comMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

Story filters on Instagram - yay or nay? I refuse to use story filters on Instagram and in this episode I talk about the WHY behind it. As the world becomes more digital, we’re reaching a point where so many things we see online have a filter. And while some filters initially were created to have fun, now we’re at a point where we feel less confident in our own skin and showing up raw to the world unless we use a filter.Confidence is connected to so many other things in life including how big we make our goals, how we interact with one another, as well as our mental health. The WHY behind what we do is so important since every action and decision can build our confidence or break it down.So join me in this episode to reflect on how and why we use story filters on Instagram. You’ll also learn how to feel more confident in your own skin, showing up as yourself to the world, connecting with more people, and attracting your ideal clients!Timestamps: [01:35] - It’s all about confidence and the role of it in our lives. Confidence shapes so many things, including how big we make our goals, how we interact with others, as well as our mental health. [02:55] - How I came to the conclusion that filters were affecting me and my perception of myself. All because of a setting on the phone. [05:50] - How filters on Instagram stories work. While originally story filters on Instagram were meant to just have fun, now it has come to a point where we use them to hide what we think are our imperfections. [08:48] - Several reasons why people may be using story filters on Instagram. It’s time to reflect and ask yourself what is your WHY. Is it just for fun? Is it something that gives you more confidence?[13:23] - Using story filters on Instagram to boost confidence? Well, you’re not alone. An insight into what others have said during my one-on-one mentoring sessions.[18:02] - It’s SO important to be aware of how we perceive the world around us. As the world becomes more digital, will we come to a point where everything will need a filter?Resources:My comparison of two photos - one with a filter and one without.Visit http://www.saramonika.com/11My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Click here to leave a review!With love + gratitude,Sara

On this episode of the Shine + Thrive podcast, the focus is on chasing “unrealistic” dreams and actually achieving them by streamlining your goal-setting process. The year 2020 is here so let’s get it off to a great start! In this episode, I walk you through my easy-to-follow seven-step process to setting goals and mapping them out in order to make them a reality. When it comes to dreaming big and setting goals, it’s easy to get overwhelmed if you don’t know where to start. Over the years I have developed a system that has been amazing for me and I want you to be able to apply it to your dreams, too! We all want to have a purpose in life, grow, and be the best versions of ourselves, right?Timestamps:[05:15] I love to set things off with quotes and I share a couple of inspirational quotes that couldn’t be more appropriate for this episode.[07:25] The importance of understanding and listing out everything you don’t want. By knowing what you don’t want and clearly defining it, you can set things in motion to create the opposite effect and get to what you DO want.[08:47] Write out everything you want as this will allow you to clearly define your goals. At this stage, it’s all about brain-dumping your ideas without overanalysing them.[09:45] What are SMART goals and how to set them? I give you examples of SMART goals and the opposite of SMART goals. [15:25] Segregation of goals into work goals and personal goals, and why it’s easier to keep track of both if you don’t mix them all together. [28:29] There are four quarters in a year and instead of focusing on the whole year, I encourage you to break your goals up into quarters. This makes it easier to plan actionable steps, review your progress, and set very clear milestones.[32:20] If it’s out of mind, it’s out of sight. Schedule, schedule, schedule! It only takes a few minutes to schedule any dates but you won’t believe the huge difference it makes. Unless you have it scheduled, it’ll easily become, “I’ll do this tomorrow… or maybe the day after that."[36:00] Don’t wait ages before you review your process and your progress. I review my goals daily and weekly, and I want you to join me in doing that, too! Not only does it keep the productivity levels up but it also takes any anxiety out of the whole equation. Resources:My affiliate link for the Full Focus PlannerHabitty AppCanvaMichael HyattWorksheet for this episodeMy Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoWith love + gratitude,Sara

It’s the end of 2019 and it’s time to look back at the wins and failures of this past year. And what a year it has been! I’m excited to share my experience so that you can learn and get a better insight for setting goals and gaining an even better mindset for personal and business growth in 2020. I love the end of the year and I’m obsessed with New Year’s, and I hope you are as excited to join me in looking back and planning ahead!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!With love + gratitude,Sara

What is it like to leave a corporate 9-5 job to pursue photography? And what hurdles and obstacles can you face along the way? How long does it take from dreaming of doing something to actually doing it? And why five seconds is all you need to act on something before fear stops you? In my first episode featuring a guest, I talk to my client-turned-friend Sam from Samantha Joy Photography as she shares her journey going from a 9-5 corporate job to going full-time as a photography business owner in only two and half years. If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!With love + gratitude,Sara

In the seventh episode of Shine + Thrive podcast I talk about tags on social media that photographers expect from their clients and why this isn’t the way to go. While social media tags can be a great tool for marketing your business, it’s not the thing that matters the most. In my experience, I know that creating an unforgettable human experience for my clients is key. Listen to this episode of Shine + Thrive podcast to hear about ways that you too can shift away from focusing on social media tags and instead create the best experience you can for your clients.If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!With love + gratitude,Sara

In this episode of Shine + Thrive podcast, I’m being vulnerable and sharing five screw-ups I’ve had in my business over the past nine years and how I’ve dealt with them. Mistakes in business can sometimes end up costing more than just money. Sometimes a mistake can lead to an unhappy client and as business owners, none of us want that, am I right? This episode is all about showing how you too can go from making mistakes to making sure that your clients are really happy in the end. If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!With love + gratitude,Sara

Money can be such a tricky topic - we all want to make more of it but you know what? In order to do that, you have make a change and do it now! Yes, start right now! In this episode of my Shine + Thrive podcast I share actionable steps that you can take as a wedding photographer to earn more money every year and grow your business.Do you want to increase your prices but find yourself asking, "What if I stop getting bookings?" Trust me, I've been there.Being uncomfortable about the change is not only perfectly normal, it's encouraged. Only then do you start seeing a change. Increasing your prices and understanding supply and demand are only some of the topics I cover in this episode.Listen to learn about the things I have done over the years to increase my business earnings and how you can do this too!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!With love + gratitude,Sara

The fourth episode of my Shine + Thrive podcast is all about the in-between moments on a wedding day that will allow you to get the most authentic and memorable photos for your couples. Listen for 10 things to keep an eye out for and hear some of the things I have learned to do and not to do over the years shooting weddings.If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!With love + gratitude,Sara

In this episode, I'm going to take you on a quick, but very deep dive into how you can figure out your editing style as a wedding photographer + stay true to it. This topic can feel heavy at times and that's mainly because as photographers (and I would know because I have felt the same things you're feeling), we are our own worst critics and until you put some boundaries in for yourself, which I will get into in this episode, it feels like we constantly go back and forth between being confident in ourselves, to doubting ourselves. If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!With love + gratitude,Sara

I get a lot of questions from wedding photographers about how to get more bookings in your business. Photographers often ask me:“I'm not getting bookings. How do I book more clients?”“Why is nobody really reaching out to me?”“I keep booking clients I don't really connect with and I don't know why.”“Couples are feeling a little uneasy in front of the camera. How can I help them feel more comfortable?”There is a way around it. It's called vulnerability. In this episode, I dive deep into how vulnerability is the fastest way for you to attract more of your ideal clients and book them!If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!With love + gratitude,Sara

In this premiere episode, I dive deep into my 9-year journey of how I went from working as a server, and only making $5000 in my photography business, to a full-time wedding photographer earning multiple six figures per year! I share with you my failures + wins in that 9-year journey to help inspire you to see that you can also achieve your biggest dreams despite the obstacles that may get in your way.If you get value out of this episode, please make sure to take a screenshot, share it on Instagram and tag me @saramonikaphoto and I would love to share your comments and takeaways on my Instagram Story as well!You can find the Show Notes for this episode HERE.My Online Photography Courses for YouOutsourcing Made Easy: Learn how you can have more time freedom AND financial freedom as a portrait/wedding photographer. Sign up for the waitlist here now! (doors reopen once a year)Crystal Clear Marketing: Learn how you can attract and book your dream photography clients - Sign up here!Intuitive Storytelling for Wedding Photographers: Learn how you can storytell like a pro on wedding days - Sign up here!Say hi to me on social! I would love to hear which episode helped you!Instagram: @saramonikaphotoSubscribeIf you're not subscribed to my podcast yet + you don't want to miss an episode make sure to do so right now before life gets in the way. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!Review in iTunesIf you feel like you've gotten a lot of value from my podcast, I would be oh so grateful if you left me a review on iTunes by letting me know what you love about it! It helps me reach + help more peeps like you!Click here to leave a review!Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!With love + gratitude,Sara