Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.7.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # The Milky Way ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://themilkyway.ca/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://themilkyway.ca/blog/) - [Business Tip Road Trip: 7 Photography Experts Offer Heartfelt Advice to Improve Your Photography Business](https://themilkyway.ca/business-tip-road-trip-7-photography-experts-offer-heartfelt-advice-to-improve-your-photography-business/) - Have you ever wanted to improve your photography business and learn from other experienced photographers? There’s a lot of information out there to sift through and it can be overwhelming, I get it. But what if we could compile our best, most effective tips in one place? Intrigued? Get ready for the Business Tip Road - [From Click to Connection: Unveiling Your Visual Voice with Photographer Annie Nelson](https://themilkyway.ca/from-click-to-connection-unveiling-your-creative-voice-with-photographer-annie-nelson/) - If you’re struggling to find your voice as a photographer or other creative, it’s OK, it happens to all of us from time to time. Creativity and inspiration come from continually trying new things, so this is your permission slip to try it all. There’s not just one way to be a photographer or pursue - [Crafting Stories through Style: Exploring the Power of Storytelling in Photography with Missie Lafrenz](https://themilkyway.ca/crafting-stories-through-style-exploring-the-power-of-storytelling-in-photography-with-missie-lafrenz/) - Does style inform your storytelling or does storytelling inform your style when it comes to photography? It’s kind of the chicken vs. the egg question, isn’t it? Whether it’s a client wardrobe, a location, or a pose, style is so important to foster that emotional connection in your photos that your clients want. Finding your - [No Limits: How Reframing Your Mindset Can Recharge Your Photography Business with Heather Lahtinen](https://themilkyway.ca/no-limits-how-reframing-your-mindset-can-recharge-your-photography-business-with-heather-lahtinen/) - Entrepreneurs, photographers included, tend to get in their own way. Doubt creeps in, limiting beliefs take over, burnout rears its ugly head, and you’re stuck. Not working the hours you want, not serving the clients you want, not making the money you want. In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Heather Lahtinen, whose goal and passion - [From Overthinking to Action: How Creatives and Photographers Can Overcome Limiting Beliefs with Erica Rooney](https://themilkyway.ca/from-overthinking-to-action-how-creatives-and-photographers-can-overcome-limiting-beliefs-with-erica-rooney/) - As entrepreneurs, we probably have more limiting beliefs than we care to admit. Today’s guest calls these beliefs that hold us back “sticky floors” and she has made it her mission to help women identify theirs, and, in turn, build a life filled with purpose and passion. In this episode, I’m chatting with Erica Rooney, - [If It’s Not a Hell Yes, It’s a Hell No: Intentional Decision-Making as a Creative & Photographer](https://themilkyway.ca/if-its-not-a-hell-yes-its-a-hell-no-intentional-decision-making-as-a-creative-photographer/) - Imagine that you say yes to a job or a project that you’re not really all that excited about. Maybe you need the money, or maybe you think you “should” take it, but it just doesn’t light you up. Your decision-making gets clouded by the immediate issues at hand, not your long-term goals at the - [For the Love of Light: Reigniting the Creative Spark in Your Photography with D’Ann Boal](https://themilkyway.ca/for-the-love-of-light-reigniting-the-creative-spark-in-your-photography-with-dann-boal/) - After moving to the Caribbean with her husband and young son, D’Ann Boal discovered photography and never looked back. And today, she’s a full-on fan of studio lighting and all the magic (and flexibility) it can bring to a photo shoot. She has inspired me to play around with different equipment in my own photography. - [The Dangerous Creative: Success Frameworks, Core Values, and Income Diversification for Your Photography Business with Kristin Sweeting](https://themilkyway.ca/the-dangerous-creative-success-frameworks-core-values-and-income-diversification-for-your-photography-business-with-kristin-sweeting/) - The ebbs and flows of entrepreneurial life are constant, and balancing them can often be tricky. Finding alignment in your career while generating profits that support your lifestyle—that’s the dream. And today’s guest helps her mentees and students to make that dream into a reality. I’m chatting with Kristin Sweeting, wedding photographer turned coach for - [You Are a Writer: Creating Copy that Connects with Photography Clients with Jenny Roth](https://themilkyway.ca/you-are-a-writer-copy-that-connects-with-photography-clients-with-jenny-roth/) - Photographers, and many other creative entrepreneurs, don’t often think of themselves as writers. It’s easy to get stuck in your head and think that if you’re a “bad” writer, you’ll never be able to write successful copy that draws in the clients you want to work with. The truth is that being a “good” writer - [Modern Marketing : Sustainable & Authentic Marketing for Your Photography Business with Stacey Owen from Meet Pepper](https://themilkyway.ca/modern-marketing-sustainable-authentic-marketing-for-your-photography-business-with-stacey-owen-from-meet-pepper/) - Today’s guest, Stacey Owen, started her marketing agency for photographers and creative entrepreneurs because she wanted to be able to share the education that she was seeking when she first started as a photographer. Her passion is very much about being behind the camera in her zone, but she wants photographers to be able to - [Regroup & Reset: My 3-Step Process to get you Back on Track After a Setback in your Photography Business with Lisa DiGeso](https://themilkyway.ca/process-to-get-you-back-on-track-after-a-setback-in-your-photography-business/) - Picture this: You just got out of the shower, towel wrapped around your head and in your cozy clothes. The doorbell rings and when you answer, it’s not a delivery driver… it’s a client with their tiny baby ready for a photoshoot. Well, that exact situation happened to me, and as mortifying as it was, - [Flexibility, Freedom, and Focus: Streamlining Your Photography Business with Noella Andres](https://themilkyway.ca/flexibility-freedom-and-focus-streamlining-your-photography-business-with-noella-andres/) - Many photographers focus on the photography side of their business and don’t prioritize things like putting systems into place or building an email list from the beginning. This results in photographers treating their business as more of a side gig. Today, I’m talking with Noella Andres, former photographer turned Online Business Manager for photographers, and - [The Empowered Artist : Embracing AI in Photography and Unleashing Creative Freedom with Twyla Jones](https://themilkyway.ca/the-empowered-artist-embracing-ai-in-photography-and-unleashing-creative-freedom-with-twyla-jones/) - As creatives, we can sometimes let fear overwhelm our art, especially when we worry about what everyone else is (or isn’t!) doing. Like, should we try a new technology? Will we be left behind if we don’t use it? What if we don’t utilize it as well as someone else? But, if you put aside - [How to Find Outdoor Family Photography Locations Anywhere](https://themilkyway.ca/outdoor-family-photography-locations/) - You do not need beautiful outdoor family photography locations to make beautiful portraits. Here is how to find locations anywhere by asking better questions. - [Family Photography Prompts That Create Real Moments](https://themilkyway.ca/family-photography-prompts-that-create-real-moments/) - Family photography prompts work when they create genuine reactions not performances. Here is what makes them work and when to use them. - [How to Stop Getting Blurry Photos: Why Shutter Speed Matters](https://themilkyway.ca/shutter-speed-for-family-photography/) - I used to come home from sessions with soft, blurry images and think I was missing focus, that my focal point must be off. A lot of the time it was shutter speed. The standard rule is to keep your shutter speed above your focal length. Shooting at 135mm, stay above 1/135. That is a - [How to Shoot Outdoor Family Photography: The 5 L Method I Use Every Session](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-shoot-outdoor-family-photography/) - How to shoot outdoor family photography with confidence: five decisions, made in order. The 5 L Method takes the guessing out of every outdoor family shoot. - [Getting Started with Family Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/getting-started-with-family-photography/) - When you are just getting started with family photography, it is important to visualize the entire process from start to finish - each aspect has the power to make or break the overall outcome. Maybe you're an experienced newborn photographer whose clients now grow up and want family photos. Or maybe you're brand new to - [Newborn Photography Safety: What Photographers Don't Think About Until They Should](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-photography-safety-photographers/) - Newborn photography safety goes deeper than most photographers realize. Here's what you actually need to know before you start working with newborns. - [When Your Favourite Clients Move On (And It Feels Personal)](https://themilkyway.ca/when-your-favourite-clients-move-on-and-it-feels-personal/) - Lisa gets honest about the gut punch of losing favourite clients and why it's not rejection at all. It's just proof that you're growing. - [The Fear of Irrelevance](https://themilkyway.ca/the-fear-of-irrelevance/) - Lisa gets honest about the fear of being forgotten and redefines what relevance actually means for photographers who are in it for the long haul. - [Audacious vs. Audacity ](https://themilkyway.ca/audacious-vs-audacity/) - Lisa unpacks the difference between audacious and audacity and why the harshest judgment usually isn't coming from outside. It's coming from us. - [You’ll Never Feel Ready, Because Ready Isn’t a Feeling, it's a Decision](https://themilkyway.ca/youll-never-feel-ready-because-ready-isnt-a-feeling-its-a-decision/) - Lisa shares why waiting to feel ready keeps you stuck and how one decision changes everything, from pricing to showing up fully. - [Idea Graveyard](https://themilkyway.ca/idea-graveyard/) - Lisa reframes the shame around unfinished ideas and abandoned projects and reminds you that a full idea graveyard means you've been brave. - [When Fear of Fear Holds You Back](https://themilkyway.ca/when-fear-of-fear-holds-you-back/) - Lisa unpacks the sneaky second layer of fear—the dread of feeling afraid—and how naming it is the first step to finally moving through it. - [Is Over Delivering Actually Overcompensating Because You Are Scared ? … Because Same](https://themilkyway.ca/is-over-delivering-actually-overcompensating-because-you-are-scared-because-same/) - Lisa asks if overdelivering is generosity or fear in disguise—and how to find the sweet spot between giving and protecting your energy. - [6 Essentials to Get Started with Newborn Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/6-essentials-to-get-started-with-newborn-photography/) - So ... you want to get started with newborn photography? You've fallen in love with images of sleepy newborns all curled up in squishy poses, adorned with the cutest headbands and outfits, against gorgeous blanket backgrounds or craftily posed in a bucket. And you want in. You want to be part of providing memories of - [This Contest Taught Me My Highest Value](https://themilkyway.ca/this-contest-taught-me-my-highest-value/) - Lisa reflects on the invisible emotional weight women carry as “shock absorbers” and why you don’t have to keep holding it all to be worthy of rest. - [10 Poses for Non-Sitters](https://themilkyway.ca/10-poses-for-non-sitters/) - Photographing non-sitters who aren't sitting on their own? These 10 simple photography poses you can use for babies who can't *quite* sit yet. - [Embracing Failure and Failing Forward](https://themilkyway.ca/embracing-failure-and-failing-forward/) - We’re going to walk through how we can embrace failure and use these difficult experiences to build back even stronger. - [When Easy Feels Uncomfortable: Untangling the Belief That Working Harder Equals Success](https://themilkyway.ca/when-easy-feels-uncomfortable-untangling-the-belief-that-working-harder-equals-success/) - Lisa shares why ease can feel uncomfortable for creatives and why struggle doesn’t have to equal success. Maybe ease means mastery. - [My Math Isn't Your Own Math](https://themilkyway.ca/my-math-isnt-your-own-math/) - A reminder that your pricing, goals, and business model do not need to match anyone else’s. Your math is your own and it gets to fit your life. - [ Is This Mine to Carry?](https://themilkyway.ca/is-this-mine-to-carry/) - Discover the mindset shift that helps photographers let go of emotional overload and reclaim clarity, confidence, and creative ground. - [Stop Playing Small: Shifting Mindset, Habits, and Confidence with Johl Dunn](https://themilkyway.ca/stop-playing-small-shifting-mindset-habits-and-confidence-with-johl-dunn/) - Johl Dunn shares how beliefs, habits, and energy shape success in photography and why mindset comes before marketing and strategy. - [Shock Absorber](https://themilkyway.ca/shock-absorber/) - Lisa reflects on the invisible emotional weight women carry as “shock absorbers” and why you don’t have to keep holding it all to be worthy of rest. - [How to do a Blanket Fade in Photoshop](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-do-a-blanket-fade-in-photoshop/) - When you are photographing newborns on a beanbag, certain angles of shooting will result in parts of the background beyond the blanket showing up in your photos. You need to be able to speed up your newborn editing by knowing how to do a blanket fade in Photoshop quickly and efficiently, and using the methods - [The Psychology of Posing with Jodi Hendricks, Founder of Posers](https://themilkyway.ca/the-psychology-of-posing-with-jodi-hendricks-founder-of-posers/) - LISTEN IN: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Confidence is not just something you feel. It is something your clients feel from you. This incredibly enjoyable episode features my conversation with Jodi Hendricks from Posers and J. Anne Photography. We talk all about the powerful connection between confidence, posing, and business growth. Jodi shares how the way - [Am I Invited or is My Camera?](https://themilkyway.ca/am-i-invited-or-is-my-camera/) - Lisa unpacks the sting of being invited for your camera, not for you, and shares how to set boundaries, protect your heart, and reclaim your worth. - [Branding, Burnout & Breaking Free: How Understanding Money and Brand Archetypes Can Revitalize Your Photography Business with Stacey Owen](https://themilkyway.ca/branding-burnout-breaking-free-how-understanding-money-and-brand-archetypes-can-revitalize-your-photography-business-with-stacey-owen/) - Stacey Owen dives into the different money and brand archetypes that shape many photographers and how these archetypes influence your business. - [Rising From the Rubble: When Your Business Feels Like It’s at Rock Bottom](https://themilkyway.ca/rising-from-the-rubble-when-your-business-feels-like-its-at-rock-bottom/) - Lisa shares how to rise when your business feels like it’s at rock bottom, with steps to rebuild on steady ground and reconnect with your why. - [When You Stop “Shoulding” and Start Listening with Fruzsina Jonas](https://themilkyway.ca/when-you-stop-shoulding-and-start-listening-with-fruzsina-jonas/) - Fru Jonas shares how listening to your clients and trusting your instincts leads to confident pricing, stronger trust, and a sustainable photography business. - [Building a Profitable Photography Studio Without Burnout with Talea Wright](https://themilkyway.ca/building-a-profitable-photography-studio-without-burnout-with-talea-wright/) - Talea Wright shares honest insight on pricing, cost of doing business, and building a photography studio that is both profitable and sustainable. - [The Art of Connection in Photography with Russell Jackson](https://themilkyway.ca/the-art-of-connection-in-photography-with-russell-jackson/) - Russell Jackson shares how focusing on connection, presence, and emotion creates images that resonate deeply and stand the test of time. - [Mind Your Own Business: Artistic Clarity with Victoria Burcusel](https://themilkyway.ca/mind-your-own-business-artistic-clarity-with-victoria-burcusel/) - Victoria Burcusel shares how she built a thriving newborn business by simplifying her style, choosing a niche, and focusing on craft over trends. - [How Do I Know I'm Ready to Charge?](https://themilkyway.ca/how-do-i-know-im-ready-to-charge/) - Lisa reflects on the invisible emotional weight women carry as “shock absorbers” and why you don’t have to keep holding it all to be worthy of rest. - [From Trend Cycles to Original Creations: How the Newborn Nerds Built a Thriving Prop Brand](https://themilkyway.ca/from-trend-cycles-to-original-creations-how-the-newborn-nerds-built-a-thriving-prop-brand/) - Discover how the Newborn Nerds built a long-lasting prop brand through timeless styling, smart trends, originality and true craftsmanship. - [How to Build a High-End In-Home Newborn Brand with Chelsea Hickey](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-build-a-high-end-in-home-newborn-brand-with-chelsea-hickey/) - Photographer Chelsea Hickey shares how she built a thriving luxury newborn brand, raised her prices, and created a service-first client experience. - [Long Form Sessions, Audacious Self-Love & The Art of Noticing with Rachel Larsen Weaver](https://themilkyway.ca/long-form-sessions-audacious-self-love-the-art-of-noticing-with-rachel-larsen-weaver/) - Rachel Larsen Weaver shares how long form sessions, self-portraiture, and the art of noticing help photographers create more connected, meaningful portraits. - [A guide to your FREE business planner for photographers!](https://themilkyway.ca/a-guide-to-your-free-business-planner-for-photographers/) - Milky Way's free annual business planner for photographers has become the most anticipated freebie every year! Did you grab your copy? You can do that here: https://themilkyway.ca/planner Our planner takes an honest look at the past year, and celebrates all the victories, but also looks at where in your business things went wrong. Using this - [The Client That Lives Rent Free in Your Head](https://themilkyway.ca/the-client-that-lives-rent-free-in-your-head/) - Lisa reflects on the invisible emotional weight women carry as “shock absorbers” and why you don’t have to keep holding it all to be worthy of rest. - [DIY props: Making Angel Wings](https://themilkyway.ca/dyi-props-making-angel-wings/) - While you *could* just go out and buy yourself some angel wings, here's another alternative! - [Creating with Intention: Artistry, AI & Authenticity with Olguta Goddard](https://themilkyway.ca/creating-with-intention-artistry-ai-authenticity-with-olguta-goddard/) - Lisa reflects on the invisible emotional weight women carry as “shock absorbers” and why you don’t have to keep holding it all to be worthy of rest. - [6 Stylish Accessories for Family Photos](https://themilkyway.ca/6-stylish-accessories-for-family-photos/) - Choosing accessories for family photos is almost as important as choosing the actual clothes to wear. A few well-chosen accessories have the power of taking your session from blah and boring to enchanting and memorable. Start by advising your clients on basic wardrobe choices (perhaps using our Styling Tips for Family Photography!). Remind them to - [20 Photos of Dads Being Awesome](https://themilkyway.ca/20-photos-of-dads-being-awesome/) - We asked our students from the Family Retreat to show us their favourite photos of dads being their amazing selves, and we were flooded with submissions! We were doubly proud - firstly because there is obviously so much photographic evidence of just how awesome dads are, and secondly, because these were all images captured after - [Joyful Connection in Family Photographs](https://themilkyway.ca/joyful-connection-in-family-photographs/) - We've come a long way from those stiff family portraits with fake smiles - modern photographers pride themselves on showcasing a family's special connection in family photographs. Every year, we assign a central theme to our Family Retreat; an overarching idea that students can keep in mind when going out to practice what they have - [Family Photography Inspiration - Posing with Babies](https://themilkyway.ca/family-photography-inspiration-posing-with-babies/) - Posing with babies can be a daunting task for the family photographer. Most posing guides will tell you to direct kids to sit here, stand there, walk over here, run towards that ... but what do you do when your littlest clients are babies that are still non-mobile? We've assembled some photo inspiration for you - [10 Ways to Capture Fun Fall Family Photos](https://themilkyway.ca/10-ways-to-capture-fun-fall-family-photos/) - With the show that Mother Nature puts on, it's no wonder that everyone wants fall family photos! The vibrant colours, diffused light, and cooler temperatures mean one thing to photographers worldwide: busy season is here! Here are some ideas that your clients will love for their fall family photos! 1. It's all about the leaves - [8 Simple Prompts for Natural Family Poses](https://themilkyway.ca/8-simple-prompts-for-natural-family-poses/) - Natural family poses very rarely happen ... well, naturally! The thought of posing for a photo is intimidating for many people, and even more so when parents have to not only consider themselves, but also their kids. As a photographer, you may worry that this translates into stiff, unnatural poses and fake smiles. We have - [When Raising Your Rates Backfires](https://themilkyway.ca/when-raising-your-rates-backfires/) - Lisa reflects on the invisible emotional weight women carry as “shock absorbers” and why you don’t have to keep holding it all to be worthy of rest. - [A Photographer’s Journey of Reinvention and Resilience with Kelsey Freeman](https://themilkyway.ca/a-photographers-journey-of-reinvention-and-resilience-with-kelsey-freeman/) - Lisa reflects on the invisible emotional weight women carry as “shock absorbers” and why you don’t have to keep holding it all to be worthy of rest. - [Table for One: The Hidden Loneliness When it Feels Like Your Clients Become Your Only Social Life](https://themilkyway.ca/table-for-one-the-hidden-loneliness-when-it-feels-like-your-clients-become-your-only-social-life/) - Lisa explores the hidden loneliness creatives face when clients become their only social life and how to bring joy and friendship back into life. - [Patience, Props & Purpose: The Evolution of a Newborn Photographer with Johna Musarra](https://themilkyway.ca/the-evolution-of-a-newborn-photographer-with-johna-musarra/) - Newborn photographer Johna Musarra shares how she found her creative voice, built patience, and created a thriving business rooted in joy. - [How to Photograph Teens Without the Awkward: Tips from Christa Paustenbaugh](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-photograph-teens-without-the-awkward-tips-from-christa-paustenbaugh/) - Christa Paustenbaugh is here to challenge the preconceived notions about photographing teens and sharing how she creates connections with high school and teens. - [Newborn Photography | What Lenses Do I Use?](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-photography-what-lenses-do-i-use/) - Let’s talk lenses! In this video, I’m walking you through every lens I use for newborn photography. What I love about each one, when I grab it, and what results you can expect. Whether you’re shooting with a 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, macro, or even your kit lens, you’ll see how each one changes the look, - [Styling Tips for Family Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/styling-tips-for-family-photography/) - Chances are good that your family photography clients will look to you, the photographer, for styling tips for their upcoming family session. And that's a good thing! Clothing choices can truly make or break a session, and it's a consideration that is often overlooked in the planning stages of contracts, retainers, location scouting, etc. Wardrobe - [The Business You Want Doesn’t Look Good on Instagram](https://themilkyway.ca/the-business-you-want-doesnt-look-good-on-instagram/) - Lisa shares why your photography business doesn’t need to be impressive on Instagram. It just needs to feel aligned, sustainable, and true to you - [Newborn Posing | Getting GREAT Angles on the Beanbag](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-posing-getting-great-angles/) - Getting your newborn posing right is only one half of a great image – you still have to press the shutter! And which angle you use when you press that shutter can make or break your image. In today’s behind-the-scenes video, Lisa shows you, in first-person view, the best angles you can use when photographing - [Stretch, Strengthen, Shoot: The Secret to Longevity in Photography with Jamie Noyes](https://themilkyway.ca/stretch-strengthen-shoot-the-secret-to-longevity-in-photography-with-jamie-noyes/) - Jamie Noyes talks through baby safety, proper infant posing, and the common mistakes she sees photographers making that can lead to injuries - [Twinkle Light Bokeh Tutorial!](https://themilkyway.ca/twinkle-light-bokeh-tutorial/) - It's that time of year! December is finally here! Christmas cards are starting to roll in the mail! I have been getting tonnes of emails to do a post on the Twinkle lights with a pull-back. I think I had more emails about these images than any other, so I thought it would be great - [Newborn Photography with Natural Light - Creating Soft Diffused Window Light](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-photography-with-natural-light/) - When you are a photographer who chooses to do newborn photography with natural light, you usually don't have control over which direction your windows face. You may find that the stream of light coming in from a window is just too strong or direct and needs to be softened so it doesn't cause hot spots - [5 Common Lighting Mistakes of Newborn Photographers](https://themilkyway.ca/5-common-lighting-mistakes-of-newborn-photographers/) - You're ready to stop making lighting mistakes. Everyone said your newborn photography would get better when you started using studio lights. "Consistent results," they promised. You've watched every YouTube video you can lay your hands on, and you spend hours jumping between Facebook groups reading post after post about newborn photography. Yet here you are - [Light Modifiers for Newborn Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/light-modifiers-for-newborn-photography/) - Your options may seem overwhelming when you have to choose light modifiers for newborn photography, and you may not know where to start when deciding what to buy. And how do you even use these softboxes and umbrellas? If you've been confused about your light modifier options for your newborn studios, this quick tutorial will - [Top Newborn Photography Lighting Mistakes: Ghoul Lighting](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-photography-lighting-mistakes/) - Incorrect light placement is probably the biggest mistake new photographers make when getting started with newborn photography. And that can lead to one of the top newborn photography lighting mistakes ever, namely ghoul lighting. When you place your light below your subject's eyes, the effect will be similar to putting a flashlight under your chin - [Newborn Photography Lighting Tutorial | Catchlights and Why They Matter](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-photography-lighting-tutorial-catchlights/) - In this newborn photography lighting tutorial, we look at how and where catchlights show up in a newborn's eyes, and why it is important to have them in the first place. Ever seen that glint in someone's eye? Other than indicating they are happy, healthy humans, that glint is the result of light reflecting in - [Beginners Guide to Studio Lighting for Newborns](https://themilkyway.ca/beginners-guide-to-studio-lighting-for-newborns/) - Few things strike fear into the hearts of beginner photographers as much as the mention of "studio lighting". Let's be honest, shall we? Our to-do list when deciding to get into newborn photography usually looks like this... Buy props. (it's usually #1 on the list!) Buy a beanbag. Buy a new lens. Learn how to - [Your Energy Is a Luxury Item; Not Everyone Can Afford It](https://themilkyway.ca/your-energy-is-a-luxury-item-not-everyone-can-afford-it/) - Lisa explains why your energy is precious, how to protect it from being drained, and why setting boundaries makes your photography more sustainable. - [Studio Lighting for Newborns: Choosing the Right Light Power](https://themilkyway.ca/studio-lighting-for-newborns-choosing-the-right-light-power/) - Bigger and more powerful lights are not better … well, at least not when it comes to choosing studio lighting for newborns. We're looking for light systems that can create soft light that wraps around the newborns, and that looks like natural light. And to do that, you need a system that can produce light - [Strobe vs Continuous Lighting for Newborn Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/strobe-vs-continuous-lighting-for-newborn-photography/) - Strobe vs continuous lighting … is one better than the other for newborn photography? What are the differences between the two forms of studio lighting anyway? While this topic can get really complicated, Lisa breaks it down quickly and simply. Many newborn photographers have described the change to studio lighting as life-changing, and deciding whether - [20 Things to Help Mama Relax In Her Photo Session](https://themilkyway.ca/20-things-to-help-mama-relax-for-her-photo-session/) - It's a rare client who walks through your studio and announces, "I LOVE being in front of the camera." And, when it comes to maternity sessions, it's no different. I'm not sure when the last time was that you were in front (not behind) the lens, but it truly can be awkward. We asked some - [Behind The Scenes on a Generational Newborn Session](https://themilkyway.ca/behind-the-scenes-on-a-generational-newborn-session/) - Come behind the scenes on a Newborn Session with 4 generations. Watch how she poses and discusses lighting and styling choices when doing generational images. - [Becoming a Baby Whisperer: Learning Baby Cries](https://themilkyway.ca/becoming-a-baby-whisperer-learning-baby-cries/) - If you're a newborn photographer, this one is a game-changer. Today, we're delving into the world of baby body signals – invaluable tools to become a baby whisperer during your newborn photo sessions. These cues can significantly enhance your photo sessions, so let's dive in. The "Neh" Cry is the hunger signal, a subtle "neh, - [Preparing Parents for Their Newborn Sessions](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-prepare-parents-for-their-newborn-photo-session/) - Yay - you've just received the email to say you're the chosen photographer for the newborn photo session. Then, over the next 2 weeks, you receive 14 more texts and emails from those parents, all filled with frantic questions. What if my baby is born early? Or late? How do I dress my baby for - [Peeking Toe Wrap Tutorial](https://themilkyway.ca/peeking-toe-wrap-tutorial/) - Take a peek behind the scenes with me, wrapping newborns for a special “peeking toe” effect that looks so sweet in newborn photo shoots. This newborn wrapping technique is simple to do, and you can have several variations with just one foot peeking out, ankles crossed, and many more. Want to learn more about Newborn - [How To Catch a Newborns Smile](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-catch-a-newborns-smile/) - “How do you get a newborn to smile?” It’s one of the questions I get asked most often by new photographers. The truth? You don’t get a newborn to smile. You wait for it. Catching a smile is one of those magical moments parents adore, and it’s often the shot they’ll talk about for years. - [Top 7 Mistakes Beginner Newborn Photographers Make](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-photographer-mistakes/) - You are just getting started in newborn photography, and it can feel overwhelming. Everyone else’s work looks so polished and pretty, and yours does not look the same yet. You are not alone. No one is born a master. Confidence comes with practice, mistakes, and more practice. I have been photographing and teaching for over - [My Top 10 Tips for a Successful Newborn Session](https://themilkyway.ca/10-tips-for-successful-newborn-sessions/) - Today I’m sharing my top ten tips for running a smooth, safe, and successful newborn photography session. Whether you’re brand new or have a few sessions under your belt, these reminders will help make your time with baby calm, efficient, and enjoyable. 1. Keep the space warm (but not too warm) A cozy baby is - [Prop Posing: One Basket, Three Ways](https://themilkyway.ca/prop-posing-baskets/) - When you need to shop for your prop posing supplies, it's tempting to think you need to buy 10 different variations of each type of prop. After all, we all want to ensure variety in our work, right! But yes ... funds can be limited when you are just starting out in photography. And you - [One Prop, Many Ways: Posing in Wagons](https://themilkyway.ca/one-prop-many-ways-posing-in-wagons/) - You may think that posing in wagons is very one-dimensional...is there more to it than laying a newborn down in the wagon? After all we always emphasize that when you're just getting started with newborn photography, it is imperative to choose props that are versatile and can be used in many setups. While traditional props - [What to do when you can't tie a knot? Fake it!](https://themilkyway.ca/faux-knot-wrapping-tutorial/) - You know those beautiful fancy knotted newborn wraps? Ever wonder how they are done? Yeah...me too. I'm not going to show you how in this video, but I WILL show you my sneaky way to 'fake it!' This simple newborn wrapping trick will add instant variety to your sessions without having to disturb your little - [Macro Photos of Beautiful Newborn Faces](https://themilkyway.ca/macro-photos-of-beautiful-newborn-faces/) - While it is important to capture all the little details in macro photos - the lashes, the lips, the toes, the hands - there is tremendous value in seeing that beautiful newborn face in its entirety. And you don't have to grab a different lens. Using you macro lens (like this one from Nikon or - [Newborn Macro Photography: Lips](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-macro-photography-lips/) - Capturing those luscious, pouty lips is one of the most popular choices in newborn macro photography. It's also one of the most challenging! The focal depth for a macro photograph is extremely shallow - only a very small portion of your photo will be in focus, and the rest will blur in that yummy creaminess - [The Ultimate Newborn Photography Studio Checklist](https://themilkyway.ca/the-ultimate-newborn-photography-studio-checklist/) - Setting up a newborn photography studio can be a daunting task! Sure, you will probably remember the big things, like your camera, and studio lights, and a beanbag (hopefully!) But the little touches are often overlooked, and only remembered when you're in the middle of a session and you think, "It would've been great to - [Sibling Poses for Every Age](https://themilkyway.ca/sibling-poses-for-every-age/) - Sibling poses is by far my most requested shot for newborns. Every parent wants them, but they are also usually the most challenging ones to execute. Take an already temperamental toddler, throw in a bit of jealousy over the new baby, and sprinkle in the foreign environment of your studio, and you have your work - [Newborn Poses with Siblings](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-poses-with-siblings/) - Your success in nailing newborn poses with siblings will depend on how easily you can adapt! The toddler crowd is unpredictable, and I always warn clients that we will do our best, but nothing is guaranteed! There are lots of amazing teachings on posing, wrapping, maternity, business, editing, marketing and much more in the Newborn - [Newborn Posing with Moms](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-posing-with-moms/) - Newborn posing with moms may seem like an impossible task! Moms are usually so hard on themselves, and very often are hesitant to be part of their baby's newborn photos. However, I urge you to try everything you can to convince Mom to get in the frame. In the moment they may not be feeling - [Newborn Posing with Dads](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-posing-with-dads/) - Expanding your workflow to include newborn posing with dads is a great way to not only fill your gallery, but also to give dads a way to remember just how small that little baby once was. Some Milky Way students, as well as some of our Newborn Retreat teachers have shown us some of their - [Parent Poses for Newborns](https://themilkyway.ca/parent-poses-for-newborns/) - Parent poses for newborns come in all shapes and forms. Parents are pictured cradling their babies in studio during posed newborn sessions, or staring in wonder at their little one's features at an in-home lifestyle session. They may even be holding them close during outdoor sessions. One thing doesn't change, though ... newborns love being - [Family Photography: Sibling Poses](https://themilkyway.ca/family-photography-sibling-poses/) - Getting the small humans together for a photo may feel like herding cats, but there are several strategies you can use for sibling poses, depending on their ages, to get children to pose together to capture and make some lifelong memories. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a perfect family photo. Be - [10 Ideas for Mom and Child Poses](https://themilkyway.ca/10-ideas-for-mom-and-child-poses/) - Chances are that Mom was the one who booked the session, so making sure that you have mom and child poses for each of her kids that melt her heart should be one of your top priorities. A simple pose with child just standing next to Mom is a great starting off point. Use prompts - [10 Ideas for Dad and Child Poses](https://themilkyway.ca/10-ideas-for-dad-and-child-poses/) - Looking for some adorable and heartwarming poses to capture the special bond between dads and their little ones? I've gathered 10 fantastic ideas for dad and child poses that are guaranteed to melt your heart. From playful moments to tender hugs, these poses are perfect for capturing those precious memories to cherish forever. Whether you're - [Posing inspiration for large families](https://themilkyway.ca/posing-inspiration-for-large-families/) - Families come in all shapes and sizes, and you may find yourself stumped for posing ideas when having to photograph large families of 6 or more people. We've asked students from the Family Retreat to share some posing inspiration for large families. The formal portrait Start with posing the parents (or the central figures for - [Sitting Poses for Family Sessions](https://themilkyway.ca/sitting-poses-for-family-sessions/) - Sitting poses for families are beautiful (and practical!) for so many reasons. Firstly, it shortens the bodies so that the focus falls on their beautiful faces (which is what they want from a family photo after all!). Many parents who are self-conscious about their bodies will find some security in sitting poses, as they are - [Standing Poses for Family Sessions](https://themilkyway.ca/standing-poses-for-family-sessions/) - Standing poses for families are wonderful ways to not only show off the family, but also the area surrounding them. Bring on those golden hour sessions and let's get inspired! It doesn't get more classic than this! A simple standing pose where everyone is looking at the camera. Taller kids standing beside a parent, shorter - [7 Ideas for Sizzling Summer Family Photos](https://themilkyway.ca/7-ideas-for-sizzling-summer-family-photos/) - With the weather turning hot and the days getting longer, more and more clients will be turning to you for summer family photos. Embrace these unique opportunities either by suggesting them as locations to you clients, or perhaps having a special mini-session. Head to the Beach Nothing quite screams summer photo shoot like the beach, - [7 Ingredients for Variety in Family Posing](https://themilkyway.ca/7-ingredients-for-variety-in-family-posing/) - Does family posing have you stumped? We've all had that moment during a family photo session where the family says "What do you want us to do?" And you hit a blank. Memorizing some (or all!) of these 7 ingredients will give you a quick go-to arsenal of family posing ideas - each one can - [Personality-Packed Portraits: Rebecca Hunnicutt’s Approach to Kids and Families for Lifestyle Family Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/personality-packed-portraits-rebecca-hunnicutts-approach-to-kids-and-families-for-lifestyle-family-photography/) - Rebecca Hunnicutt shares how she found her niche in lifestyle family photography and how to capture those extra details that make photographs. - [Newborn Posing on the Beanbag](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-posing-on-the-beanbag/) - Are you looking for some inspiration for your newborn posing on the beanbag? We've asked our Milky Way students and teachers to show us some examples of all the different poses you can successfully incorporate into your beanbag workflow. Be sure to pin the image below so you can easily find this post again - [Newborn Macros: Hands and Fingers](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-macros-hands-and-fingers/) - Adding newborn macros to your gallery is a great way of ensuring your clients have a wide variety of image to choose from. Even when baby is still in the womb, parents are counting fingers and toes on ultrasounds. It is thus no surprise that macro images of tiny newborn hands and feet are some - [Big Moves, Big Changes: Reinventing Your Photography Style with Confidence with Natasha Sewell](https://themilkyway.ca/big-moves-big-changes-reinventing-your-photography-style-with-confidence-with-natasha-sewell/) - Natasha Sewell shares how she prepares for the unexpected, helps clients feel at ease, and ensures every in-home lifestyle photography session flows naturally. - [Newborn Macro Images](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-macro-images/) - This is a well-known “rule” in the photography world. The newborn macro image is how this rule translates in the world of newborn photography. Newborn macro image photography is more than just capturing pictures; it's about preserving the fleeting moments of innocence and wonder that define a baby's first days. It allows us to see - [Macro Newborn Photography: Feet and Toes](https://themilkyway.ca/macro-newborn-photography-feet-and-toes/) - Macro newborn photography, when mastered, adds so much more variety and dimension to the gallery that you present to your clients. And these images are bound to be some of your most popular images - after all, capturing these features that are only present for a short while is one of the main reasons why - [Learning to Rest, Not Quit](https://themilkyway.ca/learning-to-rest-not-quit/) - Lisa shares how she’s learned to take breaks and rest both in life and her photography business instead of quitting and giving up entirely. - [Burnout is Not a Badge of Honor](https://themilkyway.ca/burnout-is-not-a-badge-of-honor/) - “If I’m not tired and busy, I’m probably not doing enough.” Sound familiar? So many of us as photographers are grinding ourselves down with work and stress because that’s just what it takes to run a successful business, right? And if we’re struggling with it, it’s because we’re just not dedicated enough? No friends. That’s - [Buckets, Boundaries, and Breathing Room: Creating a Business That Doesn’t Run You with Tiffany Crenshaw](https://themilkyway.ca/buckets-boundaries-and-breathing-room-creating-a-business-that-doesnt-run-you-with-tiffany-crenshaw/) - Tiffany Crenshaw opens up about building sustainability into her schedule & how she’s navigating slower seasons and a changing economy with creativity and care. - [Navigating Creative Jealousy: When Someone Else Has Your Dream](https://themilkyway.ca/navigating-creative-jealousy-when-someone-else-has-your-dream/) - Lisa explains why we experience creative jealousy and how to navigate these uncomfortable and sometimes unhelpful feelings around our photography businesses. - [Love in Ordinary Places: Romantic Storytelling Through Photography with Melissa Barnes](https://themilkyway.ca/love-in-ordinary-places-romantic-storytelling-through-photography-with-melissa-barnes/) - Melissa Barnes shares her family history, how it’s shaped her love of photography, and why she has no plans to become a full-time photographer. - [Booked and Balanced: How to Align Your Calendar with Your Capacity with Cally Petersen](https://themilkyway.ca/booked-and-balanced-how-to-align-your-calendar-with-your-capacity-with-cally-petersen/) - Cally Petersen shares how she found photography before motherhood, how her confidence has grown over time, and what helps her genuinely enjoy showing up online. - [Messy Middles: How to Navigate the In-Between Stage When You’re Not Where You Were, But Not Yet Where You Want to Be](https://themilkyway.ca/messy-middles-how-to-navigate-the-in-between-stage-when-youre-not-where-you-were-but-not-yet-where-you-want-to-be/) - Lisa shares how to navigate the uncomfortable feelings around being in the “in-between” stage of your photography business. - [Slow Down and Tune In: Photographing Families with Intention with Kim Hildebrand](https://themilkyway.ca/slow-down-and-tune-in-photographing-families-with-intention-with-kim-hildebrand/) - Kim Hildebrand shares how she’s managed to grow and find stability over her last 17 years as a photographer by slowing down and tuning in. - [Elevate, Educate, Inspire: Inside the Maternity & Newborn Photographers Summit with Cydnee Jex](https://themilkyway.ca/elevate-educate-inspire-inside-the-maternity-newborn-photographers-summit-with-cydnee-jex/) - Cydnee Jex shares how she finds influencers to work with, how she sets expectations and boundaries, why she loves working with influencers as a photographer! - [Crafting Content That Connects: Strategic Storytelling with Tania from Soulful Story Co.](https://themilkyway.ca/crafting-content-that-connects-strategic-storytelling-with-tania-from-soulful-story-co/) - Tania Barbieri shares how we can build photography brands that we’re actually excited to show up for and how we can create messaging and content for that brand. - [Dealing With Feedback in Photography: Pricing Criticism, Tough Clients, Constructive Critiques, and Handling Online Trolls](https://themilkyway.ca/dealing-with-feedback-in-photography-pricing-criticism-tough-clients-constructive-critiques-and-handling-online-trolls/) - Lisa shares her advice for handling feedback on your photography business from pricing criticism, tough clients, and Handling Online Trolls. - [Navigating Business When the World Feels Chaotic: Focusing on What You Can Control](https://themilkyway.ca/navigating-business-when-the-world-feels-chaotic-focusing-on-what-you-can-control/) - Lisa shares her best tips for staying grounded and productive when the world feels uncertain. - [Quotes for Newborns](https://themilkyway.ca/quotes-newborn/) - Hello lovely!​We've put together an inspiring list of over 60 quotes you can use when you post client sneak peeks on Facebook or in your blog posts or studio e-news.Be sure to Pin the image below for easy finding later! ​Pregnancy and Birth ​Before you were born I carried you under my heart. From the - [Creativity as Self-care](https://themilkyway.ca/creativity-as-self-care/) - Lisa is challenging you to rethink how you approach creativity and how you can start thinking about it through the lens of self-care. - [The Psychology of Sales : How to Guide Your Clients to Sales with Maggie Robinson of Tog Academy](https://themilkyway.ca/the-psychology-of-sales-how-to-guide-your-clients-to-sales-with-maggie-robinson-of-tog-academy/) - Maggie Robinson breaks down what in-person sales is, why it’s crucial to her business, and how she designs and markets her photography packages. - [Making Waves: The Art & Business of Underwater Photography with Karen Bagley](https://themilkyway.ca/making-waves-the-art-business-of-underwater-photography-with-karen-bagley/) - Karen Bagley shares what it takes to dive into underwater photography, the education you need to have before jumping in, and why safety is her top priority. - [How to “Find” Your Motivation When You’re Feeling Less Than Awesome About Your Business or Art](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-find-your-motivation-when-youre-feeling-less-than-awesome-about-your-business-or-art/) - Lisa walks through her process of rediscovering her motivation in her photography business and sharing the questions she had to ask and answer in this process. - [Lighting the Way: Building a Photography Style and Business with Marta Ponsko](https://themilkyway.ca/lighting-the-way-building-a-photography-style-and-business-with-marta-ponsko/) - Marta shares how she’s documented her career through social media in a way that resonates with her clients, and how it has paid off throughout her career. - [Sales Psychology, Strategy, and Soul: Unlocking Your Unique Magic with Eden Strader](https://themilkyway.ca/sales-psychology-strategy-and-soul-unlocking-your-unique-magic-with-eden-strader/) - As a photographer, you probably started taking photos because you loved some aspect of it, right? Maybe the artistry or the relationships you built, or the freedom that career seemed to offer you. But at some point, many of us find ourselves overwhelmed, overworked, and out of love with the career we once dreamed of. - [Setting Intentions for a New Year ](https://themilkyway.ca/setting-intentions-for-a-new-year/) - Lisa walks us through how she sets intentions and her process that takes a little bit of the pressure off, while still offering clarity for the future. - [The Season of Reflection Reset & Rest](https://themilkyway.ca/the-season-of-reflection-reset-rest/) - Lisa shares the questions we photographers should ask and reflections we should consider as we reset for the upcoming year. - [Creating a Brand New Market: How to Build a Photography Niche That Fits Your Dreams with Paige P. Photography ](https://themilkyway.ca/creating-a-brand-new-market-how-to-build-a-photography-niche-that-fits-your-dreams-with-paige-puglisi/) - Paige Puglisi shares her tips for building a strong brand in a photography niche, what it’s like working with teens and how she maintains client relationships. - [What’s Tripping You Up?](https://themilkyway.ca/whats-tripping-you-up/) - Lisa shares four steps we can take to identify and address our dumpster fires, and avoid self-sabotage in the future! - [Simplicity, Systems, and Sustainability: How To Keep Your Photography Brand Stable and Consistent with Ingvild Kolnes](https://themilkyway.ca/simplicity-systems-and-sustainability-how-to-keep-your-photography-brand-stable-and-consistent-with-ingvild-kolnes/) - Ingvild Kolnes shares advice on how she sets (and holds) boundaries and how she stays connected to the parts of photography that she loves the most. - [Separating Work from Worth](https://themilkyway.ca/separating-work-from-worth/) - Lisa shares how she’s sorted out the way she views her identity outside of her work as her life has changed in the last few years - [Tiny Posers: How to Build a Long-Lasting Newborn Photography Brand with Kristina Mack](https://themilkyway.ca/tiny-posers-how-to-build-a-long-lasting-newborn-photography-brand-with-kristina-mack/) - Kristina Mack is sharing the steps she took to create a sound, profitable photography business that has lasted decades–without burning out! - [Stop Putting Your Creativity on a Pedestal](https://themilkyway.ca/stop-putting-your-creativity-on-a-pedestal/) - If I can be frank for a moment: as creatives, we sometimes get too precious about our process of creating art. We need the right conditions, the best lighting, the perfect mindset, or else we feel like we can’t create because it might not be perfect or even good. The problem is, we can get - [Expertly-Crafted Experiences and Top-Tier Service: How to Build a Luxury Photography Brand with Lindsay Walden](https://themilkyway.ca/expertly-crafted-experiences-and-top-tier-service-how-to-build-a-luxury-photography-brand-with-lindsay-walden/) - Lindsay Walden chats about her workflow and sales structure for luxury clients and why positioning in the luxury market matters as much as anything else. - [What Are You Indulging In Right Now?](https://themilkyway.ca/what-are-you-indulging-in-right-now/) - Lisa shares how baking sourdough taught her that creativity is something we all have to hone through experimentation, trial and error, and persistence. - [Stop Selling Yourself Short: How to Price and Market Yourself to be a Profitable Photographer with Jenny Cruger and Alison Craig of The Profitable Portrait Society](https://themilkyway.ca/stop-selling-yourself-short-how-to-price-and-market-yourself-to-be-a-profitable-photographer-with-jenny-cruger-and-alison-craig-of-the-profitable-portrait-society/) - Jenny and Allison discuss what The Profitable Portrait Society is and how to overcome pricing and marketing barriers that keep many photographers unprofitable. - [Kneading Creativity- Sourdough and the Photographer's Journey](https://themilkyway.ca/kneading-creativity-sourdough-and-the-photographers-journey/) - Lisa shares how baking sourdough taught her that we all have to hone creativity through experimentation, trial and error, and persistence. - [Boss, Not Bossy: How Kellee Wynne Helps Others Fulfill Their Dreams by Sharing Her Knowledge (and Why You Should Too!)](https://themilkyway.ca/boss-not-bossy-how-kellee-wynne-helps-others-fulfill-their-dreams-by-sharing-her-knowledge-and-why-you-should-too/) - Kellee Wynne shares her thoughts on all things marketing, cultivating community, and mentoring creatives online. - [Aftershoot: How Embracing an AI Workflow Can Help You Become a Better, More Efficient Photographer with Justin Benson](https://themilkyway.ca/how-embracing-an-ai-workflow-can-help-you-become-a-more-efficient-photographer-with-justin-benson/) - Justin Benson shares just what Aftershoot is and why it can be a game-changing assistive technology for photographers as they adapt to AI. - [Take your Shot : How to Find Your Unique Photography Voice with Valerie Eidson](https://themilkyway.ca/take-your-shot-how-to-find-your-unique-photography-voice-with-valerie-eidson/) - Valerie Eidson and I talk about developing your photography voice and balancing creativity, her business, and her family! - [Love, Loss, and Legacies: Why Anna Kruse is So Passionate About Capturing Timeless Family Moments](https://themilkyway.ca/love-loss-and-legacies-why-anna-kruse-is-so-passionate-about-capturing-timeless-family-moments/) - In today’s episode, Anna vulnerably shares her story of love, loss, and passing her family’s artistic legacy to another generation. - [Ebb and Flow: The Myth of Finding Balance as a Mother and Business Owner with Aspen Dawn](https://themilkyway.ca/ebb-and-flow-the-myth-of-finding-balance-as-a-mother-and-business-owner-with-aspen-dawn/) - Aspen Dawn explains how she navigates motherhood and mental health while running a thriving photography business. - [From Chaos to Keepsakes: The Joy of Photographing Large Families with Kristen Coberly](https://themilkyway.ca/from-chaos-to-keepsakes-the-joy-of-photographing-large-families-with-kristen-coberly/) - Kristen Coberly shares how she’s learned to go with the flow and embrace the chaos of photographing large families. - [Play, Prompts, and Passion: How Liz Devinny Creates Playful Photography Masterpieces](https://themilkyway.ca/play-prompts-and-passion-how-liz-devinny-creates-playful-photography-masterpieces/) - Liz Devinny shares how she creates engaging, comfortable environments for the whole family as she captures playful family portraits. - [Scroll-stopping Storytelling: Creating Fine Art Children's Portraits with Photographer Iwona Podlasinska](https://themilkyway.ca/scroll-stopping-storytelling-creating-fine-art-childrens-portraits-with-photographer-iwona-podlasinska/) - Iwona Podlasinska shares how she creates unforgettable fine art children’s portraits through her own unique vision and style. - [The Wild Side: Embracing the Beautiful Mess, and Capturing Authentic Connection with Tiffany Crenshaw from Animal House Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/the-wild-side-embracing-the-beautiful-mess-and-capturing-authentic-connection-with-tiffany-crenshaw-from-animal-house-photography/) - Does it ever feel like you’re running a zoo?? Maybe that’s because balancing photography and motherhood is a whole art in itself! Just take it from Tiffany Crenshaw, professional lifestyle photographer, mom of 3, and an embracer of chaos who knows the value of showcasing a person’s most authentic self. In today’s episode, we’re interviewing - [Focus on Inclusion: Empathy and Advocacy in Neurodivergent Family Photography with Stacey Feasel](https://themilkyway.ca/focus-on-inclusion-empathy-and-advocacy-in-photographing-neurodivergent-hildren-with-stacey-feasel/) - When you’re a photographer, you learn that no session is quite the same as the last! That’s especially true when working with children and, in particular, photographing neurodivergent children. So what can you do during those sessions to ensure your studio is a safe and inclusive environment for everyone? This guest has the answer! In - [The Procrastinating Robot with Lisa DiGeso: Strategies to Deal with Overwhelm & Procrastination](https://themilkyway.ca/the-procrastinating-robot-with-lisa-digeso-strategies-to-deal-with-overwhelm-procrastination/) - Lisa shares how feeling overwhelmed by too many tasks, options, or ideas can paralyze us and how we can beat the procrastination to get back on track! - [Contracts, Copyrights, and Copycats: The Must-Do Legal Tasks for Your Photography Business with Kiffanie Stahle](https://themilkyway.ca/contracts-copyrights-and-copycats-the-must-do-legal-tasks-for-your-photography-business-with-kiffanie-stahle/) - Kiffanie Stahle explains the must-do legal tasks for your photography business to write the best contracts and protect your intellectual property. - [A Passion for Pet Portraits: Making Furry Friend Photography a Profitable Business with Nicole Begley](https://themilkyway.ca/a-passion-for-pet-portraits-making-furry-friend-photography-a-profitable-business-with-nicole-begley/) - Nicole Begley shares how she niched down and made her passion of taking brilliant pet portraits a profitable photography business. - [DIY Cloud Tutorial](https://themilkyway.ca/diy-cloud-tutorial/) - In this tutorial, I'll show you how I made the fluffy clouds I used for this session! All you need: Pieces of Foamboard (for base of cloud) Highloft Polyester Glue Gun Scissors Fishing Line (or other string) And...once we had the clouds set up and the hearts, we brought in our little model! If you - [Marketing Mindset Makeover: Why It’s Time for Photographers to Rethink Their Marketing Strategies with Carolina Guzik](https://themilkyway.ca/marketing-mindset-makeover-why-its-time-for-photographers-to-rethink-their-marketing-strategies-with-carolina-guzik/) - Carolina Guzik and Lisa discuss SEO for Pinterest and Google and how we’ve got to let go of how we feel about our marketing and use data as our guide instead. - [The Profitable Photographer: Pricing for Profit in Your Photography Business with Jamie Devlin](https://themilkyway.ca/the-profitable-photographer-pricing-for-profit-in-your-photography-business-with-jamie-devlin/) - Jamie Devlin joins me on the podcast to challenge us to rethink how we do pricing for profit in our photography businesses. - [Picture Perfect Productivity: Strategies for Streamlining Your Photography Business with Brittnie Renee](https://themilkyway.ca/picture-perfect-productivity-strategies-for-streamlining-your-photography-business-with-brittnie-renee/) - Brittnie Renee, a professional family photographer and educator, helps her students optimize productivity in 15 hours per week or less! - [Countdown to Success: Using The Rocketship Blueprint to Propel Your Photography Business Forward with Senior Photographer Sean Brown](https://themilkyway.ca/countdown-to-success-using-the-rocketship-blueprint-to-propel-your-photography-business-forward-with-senior-photographer-sean-brown/) - Sean Brown, a professional senior photographer, shares the systems, strategy, and authenticity required to launch a successful photography business. - [Learning Curves: How Maintaining a Lifetime Learner Mindset Can Help You Master Your Fine Art Maternity with Esther Kay](https://themilkyway.ca/learning-curves-how-maintaining-a-lifetime-learner-mindset-can-help-you-master-your-fine-art-maternity-with-esther-kay/) - As photographers, many of us are guilty of spending thousands of dollars on equipment, gowns, and props that, at the surface, seem to offer endless variety. But are these things really what drive creativity? Could there be a better investment of your time and resources than the latest trend? SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts | Spotify In - [A Kid at Heart: The Art & Business of Preschool Photography with Trina Julius](https://themilkyway.ca/the-art-business-of-preschool-photography-with-trina-julius/) - Preschool aged children are such a fun group to photograph! Just ask Trina Julius, a professional preschool photographer of 10 years who has photographed thousands of 4 to 5-year-olds over the course of her career. In today’s episode, Trina shares how she discovered her passion for preschool photography and what she loves most about working - [The Business of Being Yourself: How Embracing Your Uniqueness Unlocks Your Creativity & Helps You Stand Out in the Newborn Niche With Natasha Simpson](https://themilkyway.ca/unlock-your-creativity-stand-out-in-the-newborn-niche-with-natasha-simpson/) - As photographers, it’s easy to stifle our own creativity with self-imposed limitations – whether that’s working solely within one particular style or losing sight of how important it is to experiment and embrace new opportunities. But here’s the thing, you don’t have to confine yourself to any one particular box. In today’s episode, I’m interviewing - [From Scrubs to Shutter: Balancing Nursing, Photography, and Passion with Shannon McTighe](https://themilkyway.ca/balancing-nursing-photography-and-passion-with-shannon-mctighe/) - Are you a photographer with multiple passions? Balancing different areas of interest can feel like a challenge, especially when there’s only so much time in the day! In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Shannon McTighe, pediatric emergency room nurse and self-taught photographer. Shannon shares how a love of art ignited her photography career and gave her - [Better Together: How Hiring a Team of Associates Can Help You Grow Your Photography Business With Jill Smith](https://themilkyway.ca/better-together-how-hiring-a-team-of-associates-can-help-you-grow-your-photography-business-with-jill-smith/) - Do you wish that you could outsource some of your photography work? Hiring associates is a great way to say “yes” to more clients while still working less and focusing solely on your zone of genius! In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Jill Smith, a professional family photographer who has been able to scale her business - [Golden Moments: Elevating  & Nurturing Client Relationships with Maternity and Newborn Photographer Kellie Golden](https://themilkyway.ca/golden-moments-elevating-nurturing-client-relationships-with-maternity-and-newborn-photographer-kellie-golden/) - Today’s guest is perhaps the most sought-after maternity, newborn, and baby photographer in the Midwest… And for good reason! Kellie Golden has mastered not only photography but also the business systems and special touches that keep her clients coming back time and again. It’s no wonder she has photographed over a thousand babies during her - [The Heart of Photography: Josie Tan's Approach to Client Connections & Building Relationships in Your Photography Business](https://themilkyway.ca/josie-tans-approach-to-building-relationships-in-your-newborn-and-maternity-photography-business/) - A photography career isn’t always linear, and sometimes, there’s a lot of “figuring it out as you go.” This was the case for Josie Tan, a former resident of LA who traded models and magazines for a new life in Oregon as a newborn and maternity photographer. In today’s episode, Josie and I discuss those - [Advice From the Pros: Lessons and Reflections From 16 Photographers on What They Wish They Knew as Beginners](https://themilkyway.ca/lessons-and-reflections-from-16-photographers-on-what-they-wish-they-knew-as-beginners/) - When you’re first starting out as a photographer, it can be tough! You don’t know what you don’t know. Wouldn’t it be incredible to pick the brains of some incredible, established photographers to give you advice as you start out of your photography career? Well friends, you are in the right place, because we rounded - [Giving Up the Ghost: Releasing the Stories Holding You Back in Your Photography Business.](https://themilkyway.ca/giving-up-the-ghost-releasing-the-stories-holding-you-back-in-your-photography-business/) - A few years ago, I started my own process of reflection at the end of each year, looking at my successes… and maybe some of the things that didn’t go so well too. We all have those moments where a client interaction went badly, or we made another embarrassing business mistake that haunts us a - [Practicing Presence: The Healing Power of Slowing Down & Tuning into Mindfulness & Creativity in Photography with Joy Prouty](https://themilkyway.ca/practicing-presence-the-healing-power-of-slowing-down-tuning-into-mindfulness-creativity-in-photography-with-joy-prouty/) - Do you struggle to feel present or embrace photography in your personal life? Just because something comes naturally to us as professionals doesn’t necessarily mean that the same is true at home. (Especially if you’re a mother of young children!) Sometimes taking photographs feels more like a chore or a nuisance than the beautiful and - [Inkpot Insights: Crafting Web Magic for your photography business with KP and Jessie from Inkpot Creative](https://themilkyway.ca/crafting-web-magic-for-your-photography-business-with-kp-and-jessie-from-inkpot-creative/) - Photographers are busy people, and we sometimes let things slide that we shouldn’t. Namely, I’m talking about our photography websites. If I’m honest, I haven’t updated mine as much as I should and I bet you haven’t either. Websites are usually our primary marketing tools to find clients, so we can’t neglect them any longer. - [Creating or Consuming: Education as More Than Entertainment, Taking Intentional Action Towards Your Creative Goals](https://themilkyway.ca/creating-or-consuming-education-as-more-than-entertainment-taking-intentional-action-towards-your-creative-goals/) - If you’re a photographer, you’re probably an education junkie, just like me. We sign up for courses, we watch tutorials, we follow other creators on Instagram. But the problem is, we consume all this information and we don’t do anything with it. Even worse, we allow it to create doubt in our minds about our - [The Art of Elegance: Elevating Your Photography Business Through Client-Centric Strategies with Kayleigh Ashworth](https://themilkyway.ca/the-art-of-elegance-elevating-your-photography-business-through-an-amazing-client-experience-with-kayleigh-ashworth/) - When it comes to business, we all find ourselves in sticky situations sometimes. It’s just a part of running such human-focused businesses. But what’s the best way to handle some of these tough client experiences? Well, in today’s episode, Kayleigh Ashworth, renowned newborn and maternity photographer, shares some of her trickiest client situations and how - [Making Maternity Magic: Empowering Women, Staying Profitable, and Nurturing Creativity in Photography with Karli Braaten](https://themilkyway.ca/making-maternity-magic-empowering-women-staying-profitable-and-nurturing-creativity-in-photography-with-karli-braaten/) - Are you an aspiring maternity photographer? Curious to learn everything that’s involved in this unique and multi-faceted photography niche? Then you’ve come to the right place! Maternity photography is so special in that it requires all the skills of a photographer plus even more care and attention to make your clients feel at ease and - [Guiding Stars: 6 Truths from 14 Years in Business & Photography with Lisa DiGeso](https://themilkyway.ca/guiding-stars-6-truths-from-14-years-in-business-photography-with-lisa-digeso/) - As I reflect back on the past 14 years in the world of photography and business, I'm honestly filled with so much gratitude for the life lessons, the memories, the relationships, and the beautiful art that I've had the opportunity to create. It’s been a journey filled with ups and downs, but I’ve learned so - [Prints with Purpose & Crafting a Luxury Studio: A Conversation with Photographer Ambreia Turner](https://themilkyway.ca/prints-with-purpose-crafting-a-luxury-studio-a-conversation-with-photographer-ambreia-turner/) - Digital photos are great in terms of portability and immediacy. But tangible photos that you can hold in your hand have so much more meaning. Think about the difference between a forgotten USB stick languishing in a drawer somewhere and a photo album filled with photos that you can touch. It’s a whole different vibe, - [How to swaddle a newborn for a photo session](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-swaddle-a-newborn/) - “How to swaddle a newborn” is one of the first questions new mothers ask, and new newborn photographers are no different! Getting that perfect tight and cozy swaddle paves the way to a happy and comfortable baby, and thus those sleepy photos we all swoon about. The simple swaddle is a great way to get - [The Honest Lens: Capturing the Beauty of the Everyday with Documentary Photographer Amy Dangerfield](https://themilkyway.ca/the-honest-lens-capturing-the-beauty-of-the-everyday-with-documentary-photographer-amy-dangerfield/) - As creatives, we spend too much time focusing on “should”. We tell ourselves, “This is the way my photos should look, and this is the way my business should run,” etc. But what if we moved past what should be and just focused on what is? Finding your true, authentic voice as a photographer takes - [Storytelling Films: Incorporating Family Legacy Video in your Photography Business with Dorte Kjaerulff](https://themilkyway.ca/storytelling-films-incorporating-family-legacy-video-in-your-photography-business-with-dorte-kjaerulff/) - Capturing photos and photo editing is second nature to us as photographers. Creating family films and doing video editing, however, can feel very overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be! Just like anything else in life, start small, learn the basics, and give it a try. I bet you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the results. - [Finding Focus Amid the Chaos: The Importance of Nervous System Regulation and Self-Care for Photographers with Renee Bowen](https://themilkyway.ca/finding-focus-amid-the-chaos-the-importance-of-nervous-system-regulation-and-self-care-for-photographers-with-renee-bowen/) - Being a photographer, or any other kind of creative business owner, can be stressful. Deadlines, budgets, clients, imposter syndrome - all of these things can cause us to become dysregulated and mentally frazzled. But finding the calm in the chaos of entrepreneurial life is possible, my friends. You deserve a calm, successful business without the - [The Fine Print: Legal Tips Every Photographer Should Know with Paige Griffith from the Legal Paige](https://themilkyway.ca/the-fine-print-legal-tips-every-photographer-should-know-with-paige-griffith-from-the-legal-paige/) - Contracts can seem scary. The language might feel complex or overwhelming. But you truly do need them for your photography business. You have to protect yourself and your business and having contracts in place help you do just that. This is your nudge to get legal, my friends. In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Paige Griffith, - [Let’s Play: Advice for Fun, Playful, Child-Led Photo Sessions with Melissa Miller](https://themilkyway.ca/lets-play-advice-for-fun-playful-child-led-photo-sessions-with-melissa-miller/) - Picture this scene: You’re shooting a children’s photo session and the kids are crying, their parents are frazzled, and no one is having a good time, especially not you. Maybe you’ve experienced this yourself, or you’ve at least heard horror stories about this happening. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are strategies - [Let It Go: How to Stop Perfectionism From Holding You Back as a Photographer with Megan Boggs](https://themilkyway.ca/let-it-go-how-to-stop-perfectionism-from-holding-you-back-as-a-photographer-with-megan-boggs/) - It can be hard to realize that none of us are perfect. We get tired, we make mistakes, or we take on too many projects. But what we need to remember is that done is better than perfect. Spending 10 hours editing one photo serves no one. And honestly, our clients don’t expect perfection from - [The Fearless Photographer: Your Art, Your Way with Bobbi Barbarich](https://themilkyway.ca/the-fearless-photographer-your-art-your-way-with-bobbi-barbarich/) - Humans in general have a lot of limiting beliefs, but as photographers, so many doubts come into play. We’re unsure about our art, we doubt our value, we undercharge and overwork ourselves. It’s not healthy and it needs to change. In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Bobbi Barbarich, a documentary wedding and family photographer. She shares - [Profit & Purpose: Planning For Success in Your Photography Business with The Motherhood Anthology](https://themilkyway.ca/profit-purpose-planning-for-success-in-your-photography-business-with-the-motherhood-anthology/) - Money is a topic that so many creatives try to ignore. We want to focus on the art, we tell ourselves. But not knowing what your expenses are, not having a budget, and not being able to pay yourself are all big problems when it comes to owning a business. Your time is worth money. - [Camera Settings for Newborn Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/camera-settings-newborn-photography/) - When it comes to newborn photography, achieving that dreamy and ethereal look with a beautifully blurred background is essential. The right camera settings can make all the difference in capturing those precious moments. In this article, we'll delve into the optimal camera settings for newborn photography that you need to master to achieve that perfect - [Recalibrate Your Money Mindset: Empowering Insights from Photography Business Coach Dan Moyer](https://themilkyway.ca/recalibrate-your-money-mindset-empowering-insights-from-photography-business-coach-dan-moyer/) - Creative people aren’t good at numbers. At least, that’s what we tell ourselves, and often it can lead to big financial problems in our businesses. Unfortunately, you can’t put your head in the sand and ignore your money mindset and expect to have a successful business. In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Daniel Moyer, a photographer, - [Focus on Visibility: Unlocking SEO Strategies for Photographers with Melissa Arlena](https://themilkyway.ca/focus-on-visibility-unlocking-seo-strategies-for-photographers-with-melissa-arlena/) - I don’t know if there are three letters more intimidating to photographers than SEO, but it’s something we all need to educate ourselves about. Photography businesses often rely on Google searches, among other things, to bring in clients, so don’t bury your head in the sand when it comes to SEO. In today’s episode, I’m - [Turning Frustration into Fuel: Harnessing Change and Growth in Your Photography Business with Fiona Margo](https://themilkyway.ca/turning-frustration-into-fuel-harnessing-change-and-growth-in-your-photography-business-with-fiona-margo/) - Pricing your business is about the numbers, sure, but it’s also about your emotions. Self-worth, imposter syndrome, uncertainty - all of those things can play a part when deciding on your pricing structure for your photography business. But what if there was a simple way to align your pricing? In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Fiona - [Manifesting Magic: Cultivating a Heart-Led Business as a Photographer & a Creative with Mollie Sommer](https://themilkyway.ca/manifesting-magic-cultivating-a-heart-led-business-as-a-photographer-a-creative-with-mollie-sommer/) - Every single one of us has faced limiting beliefs at some point in our lives. We’ve let other people dictate our worth and our success and it’s not healthy or sustaining. Instead, we have to remember the value we bring to the table and manifest a belief in ourselves. In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Mollie - [Capturing Clicks: Navigating Advertising Strategies for Photographers with Ashleigh Taylor](https://themilkyway.ca/capturing-clicks-navigating-advertising-strategies-for-photographers-with-ashleigh-taylor/) - If you’ve ever been intimidated by ad strategies for your business, you’re not alone. Click-through, conversion rate, ad copy, lead generation, boosted ads - it’s enough to make your head spin if you aren’t sure what you’re doing or what it all means. It really doesn’t have to be so scary, though. There is so - [The Art of Connection: Infusing Emotion and Body Language in Photography with Denise Birdsong](https://themilkyway.ca/the-art-of-connection-infusing-emotion-and-body-language-in-photography-with-denise-birdsong/) - As photographers, I bet many of us have experienced flat, uninteresting photos when we haven’t felt a connection with our clients, especially when we started out. That emotional connection is the magic sauce that makes your photos shine. In order to foster that connection, we have to build trust and we have to be willing - [Senior Moments: The Art of Photographing High School Seniors with Leslie Kerrigan](https://themilkyway.ca/senior-portrait-the-art-of-photographing-high-school-seniors-with-leslie-kerrigan/) - Senior portrait photography might seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Just like any other genre of photography, you’ve got to make your clients feel comfortable in order to make your photos shine. In order to bring that level of comfort, you’ve got to do the legwork beforehand to prepare your clients - and - [Artful Storytelling for the Wild Souls: Creating Heartfelt Photography with Sarah Havens](https://themilkyway.ca/artful-storytelling-for-the-wild-souls-creating-heartfelt-photography-with-sarah-havens/) - Having relaxed, comfortable clients is important for any photo session. It’s even more important when it comes to intimate connection photography. We want to alleviate any fears and stiffness our clients feel, and instead capture genuine emotion and love. Talking to your clients beforehand and getting really clear on their boundaries can really help the - [The Art of Community: Local Marketing Strategies for Photographers - A Conversation with Karina Beck](https://themilkyway.ca/the-art-of-community-local-marketing-strategies-for-photographers-a-conversation-with-karina-beck/) - As photographers and business owners, the struggle to stay motivated and push our creativity is real. It can feel like everything has already been done before - poses, props, locations, etc. But what if we could examine that struggle from a new lens? In today’s episode, I’m interviewing Karina Beck, a storytelling photographer from the - [Reflections of Self: Exploring the Power of Self-Portraits in Photography with Alex Eischeid](https://themilkyway.ca/reflections-of-self-exploring-the-power-of-self-portraits-in-photography-with-alex-eischeid/) - Taking photos of other people comes with the job of being a photographer. But what happens when you turn the camera on yourself? If you find yourself feeling a bit silly, that’s OK, embrace it. Self-portraits don’t have to be perfect. Self-acceptance is the name of the game here. Take photos of what’s actually there, - [Follow your Heart: How to Thrive as a Multi-Passionate Creative Entrepreneur with Photographer Lucy Baber](https://themilkyway.ca/follow-your-heart-how-to-thrive-as-a-multi-passionate-creative-entrepreneur-with-photographer-lucy-baber/) - Have you ever looked around your industry and thought, I don’t fit into this niche? Maybe you don’t want to be boxed into one thing forever and have it define you. Maybe you started out in Industry A, but now you’ve pivoted into Industry B, and actually, Industry C is looking interesting, too. Guess what? - [Lights, Camera, Connection : The Secrets to Crafting Heartwarming Family Films with Colie James](https://themilkyway.ca/podcast-template-newlights-camera-connection-the-secrets-to-crafting-heartwarming-family-films-with-colie-james/) - We talk a lot about photography on this podcast, naturally, but have you ever thought about dabbling in family filmmaking? If it felt intimidating or you didn’t understand the tech behind it, or maybe you haven’t even heard of it, it’s OK, we’ve got you covered. Also, if something’s not in your wheelhouse as a - [Simplification, Sustainability, and Systems that work for your photography business with Leah O’Connell](https://themilkyway.ca/simplification-sustainability-and-systems-that-work-for-your-photography-business-with-leah-oconnell/) - How you approach your business and photo sessions doesn’t have to be complicated. And yet, for so many photographers it’s easy to overcomplicate things. Building your business processes for sustainability goes a long way when it comes to creating a business that you love. In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Leah O’Connell of Firefly Photography. - [Balance, Burnout, and Boundaries: Creating a Fulfilling Photography Business with Dawn Charles](https://themilkyway.ca/balance-burnout-and-boundaries-creating-a-fulfilling-business-with-dawn-charles/) - Burnout is an issue that plagues so many creative entrepreneurs.. Juggling photo shoots and editing time with admin and social media while also making time for yourself and your family and cleaning the house … It can be a lot. In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Dawn Charles, wedding photographer turned photography and business educator - [Editorial Photography, Mindset Shifts, and Maintaining Consistency in Your Photography Business with KT Merry](https://themilkyway.ca/editorial-photography-mindset-shifts-and-maintaining-consistency-in-your-photography-business-with-kt-merry/) - Bringing passion to the work you do can strengthen your confidence and clarity in your business. For KT Merry, her passion for conservation and animals has allowed her to take beautiful editorial photographs everywhere from Miami to Mount Kilimanjaro. She has learned how to maintain passion and consistency in her business, something every photographer wants. - [Family, Feelings, and Photography: Capturing Moments of Connection with Megan McComb](https://themilkyway.ca/family-feelings-and-photography-capturing-moments-of-connection-with-megan-grace/) - Success looks a little different to each and every photographer, but for Megan McComb of Megan Grace Photography, it’s capturing deep connections and realistic interactions for her families. Her passion is creating memories to last a lifetime for her clients through beautiful depictions of their relationships. But capturing these moments on film isn’t just a - [Finding Success as a Stock Photography Superstar with Aubrey Westlund](https://themilkyway.ca/finding-success-as-a-stock-photography-superstar-with-aubrey-westlund/) - As a photographer, there are so many niches that you can choose from for your business, and many times, that can be really helpful for marketing your photography and finding clients. But as we all saw back in 2020, it can also have a detrimental effect when times get tough or there’s an abrupt change - [Motherhood & Magical Mamas: The Art of Maternity Photography with Lela Ruth](https://themilkyway.ca/motherhood-magical-mamas-the-art-of-maternity-photography-with-lela-ruth/) - Expectant mothers want to feel pampered and beautiful. Unfortunately, the perception of how a woman should look is warped by society and the media and filters. It’s an unnatural expectation that’s impossible to live up to. What is possible is bringing out the natural beauty of expectant mothers in their maternity shoots, and Lela Ruth - [Branding & Business without Burnout: Growing a Sustainable Brand Photography Business with Meg McMillan](https://themilkyway.ca/branding-business-without-burnout-growing-a-sustainable-brand-photography-business-with-meg-mcmillan/) - Whether your business goals include winning awards, making a certain amount of money, or working with dream clients, at the end of the day, we’re all trying to we’re businesses that feel sustainable above all else. Many photographers find themselves trying different niches to see what fits, and while that’s a great way to discover - [In the Wild: Adventure Family Photography with Rebecca Lueck](https://themilkyway.ca/in-the-wild-adventure-family-photography-with-rebecca-lueck/) - Adventure and family photography is a wild mix of amazing light, beautiful landscapes, lovely clients… and occasionally unpredictable weather and toddlers. When it comes to managing all of these elements and still getting the perfect shot, Rebecca Lueck is the expert, and she’s here today to share her wisdom with us. In today’s episode, Rebecca - [Home Is Where the Heart Is: In-Home Family Photography with Kelly Goggin](https://themilkyway.ca/home-is-where-the-heart-is-in-home-family-photography-with-kelly-goggin/) - How do you picture the newborn phase? A laundry pile in a corner, formula spilled on sheets, and slightly overwhelmed parents? That might sound like a recipe for disaster when it comes to a beautiful, in-home photo shoot, but for Kelly Goggin, that’s her ideal working environment. In today’s episode, Kelly Goggin shares amazing personal - [Motherhood Unscripted : Capturing Natural Motherhood Moments that Matter with Laura Parkin Warner](https://themilkyway.ca/motherhood-unscripted-capturing-natural-motherhood-moments-that-matter-with-laura-parkin-warner/) - Breastfeeding is a natural way for mothers to feed their babies, a part of human biology, and a normal part of life for many families. So why is it that female nipples, images of breastfeeding, and breastfeeding discussions are viewed as taboo or offensive? Today’s guest Laura Parkin-Warner is ready to rethink the way we - [The Voice Within : Tuning into your Creative Intuition and Using Photography to Heal with Paula Owen](https://themilkyway.ca/tuning-into-your-creative-intuition-and-using-photography-to-heal-with-paula-owen/) - Have you ever felt a calling? A voice inside of yourself telling you to help someone or share something? Paula Owen had this exact experience, and when she listened, she was able to help a fellow student in their moment of need. Since then, she’s been leaning into her intuition and honing her gift to - [Creativity, Consistency, and Kids: Cultivating a Successful Photography Business and Life with Nicole Ashley](https://themilkyway.ca/parenthood-and-creativity-cultivating-a-successful-photography-business-and-life-with-nicole-ashley/) - Many of us as creative entrepreneurs struggle with managing the push and pull of parenthood and creativity. On one hand, we tend to throw ourselves into our creative work because we love it so much, but on the other, we don’t want to miss out on the fleeting moments with our littles. Today’s guest Nicole - [Business, Boundaries, and Baby Photos with Angelica Sam](https://themilkyway.ca/business-boundaries-and-baby-photos-with-angelica-sam/) - As a young mom, Angelica Sam wanted baby photos for her sweet little girl, but she was unable to afford a professional photographer. So instead, she bought a camera, started photographing, and never looked back. Today, Angelica is a published photographer and educator hosting newborn and maternity workshops worldwide (including at our 2023 Online Newborn - [All Things Baby: The Art of Newborn Photography with Megan Macdonald](https://themilkyway.ca/all-things-baby-the-art-of-newborn-photography-with-megan-macdonald/) - Is there anything cuter than a squishy little baby wrapped up and surrounded by soft accessories? Their cute faces make photographing babies such a joy, even though their wiggly limbs and curious parents can make those newborn photography sessions hard work! Today, Megan Macdonald shares just how much she loves photographing babies, shopping for the - [Babies, Business Advice, and Being Yourself with Newborn Photographer Sissi Wang](https://themilkyway.ca/babies-business-advice-and-being-yourself-with-newborn-photographer-sissi-wang/) - Even if you’ve done dozens of sessions, photographing a new baby can feel a little intimidating. What do you do if a baby doesn’t want to sleep? How do you get a rambunctious toddler to cooperate? And when do you finally start to feel confident as a newborn photographer? When it comes to newborn photographers, - [Families, Fairy Tales, and Fine Art Photography: Capturing Timeless Images with Deborah Koch](https://themilkyway.ca/fine-art-photography-capturing-timeless-images-with-deborah-koch/) - When Deborah Koch first picked up a camera, she didn’t know she was starting a brand new career. She just wanted to document her family life with her husband and her two sweet kids. But, once she started diving into her photography education and discovering the creative possibilities of fine art photography, she fell in - [Busting Through Artistic Resistance and Creating a Life You Love with Michelle Mckay](https://themilkyway.ca/busting-through-artistic-resistance-and-creating-a-life-you-love-with-michelle-mckay/) - For many creatives, we can feel overwhelmed when faced with artistic resistance, even in work that otherwise excites us. Avoiding the things that make us feel creative resistance can lead to burnout or stagnation, but it’s so easy to find ways to keep ourselves busy with simple, but urgent tasks instead of finding ways to - [Magical Maternity Moments: Balancing Fine Art Photography and Family with Olguta Goddard](https://themilkyway.ca/magical-maternity-moments-balancing-fine-art-photography-and-family-with-olguta-goddard/) - There’s nothing quite like maternity photography. It’s a short time in a mother’s life, and it’s not an experience guaranteed to every woman who wants it. So when the moment finally arrives, being able to celebrate and commemorate this special experience is such an honor for maternity photographers. For Olguta Goddard, it's very personal as - [For the Love of Babies: The Joy of Newborn Photography with Amy Haehl](https://themilkyway.ca/for-the-love-of-babies-the-joy-of-newborn-photography-with-amy-haehl/) - When it comes to photographing babies and toddlers, you can never predict exactly how it’s going to go, depending on each babies’ mood and personality. The key is being able to read the emotions from both momma and baby, adjust based on their needs, and always, try to stay patient and calm above all else. - [Be the CEO: Managing Your Photography Business on Your Terms with Dorie Howell](https://themilkyway.ca/be-the-ceo-managing-your-photography-business-on-your-terms-with-dorie-howell/) - As photographers and entrepreneurs, we have the gift of flexibility and being able to adjust and manage our business in whatever way works best for us. We can either be just another employee in our business, stuck to the whims of wherever the business takes us on any given day, or we can take control - [Glitz, Glam, and the Gift of Art: Creating Luxury Photography Experiences with Jai Mayhew](https://themilkyway.ca/glitz-glam-and-the-gift-of-art-creating-luxury-photography-experiences-with-jai-mayhew/) - Creating luxurious, glamorous moments for your clients, ones that let them tell their own stories while feeling beautiful and empowered, all comes down to the details. From the first point of contact to feeling comfortable at the photo shoot to the ease in which they get to choose their photos, crafting an experience that makes - [Picture This : Crafting a Photography Business that Aligns with Your Life with Kate Hedje](https://themilkyway.ca/crafting-a-photography-business-with-your-zone-of-genius/) - When you first start building a photography business, it’s easy to get busy doing all the things all the time just to keep your business going. But if that’s how you run your business indefinitely, burnout will be waiting for you right around the corner. To build a sustainable business that can support you and - [Personalizing Your Business to Pay Yourself and Protect Your Mental Health with Lisa Kirkeberg](https://themilkyway.ca/pay-yourself-and-protect-your-mental-health-with-lisa-kirkeberg/) - There are plenty of things that can make running your own photography business challenging, but being able to pay yourself a living wage shouldn’t be one of them. Our guest today, Lisa Kirkeberg, has had her own struggles, from spending years just making enough in her business to get by to learning how to manage - [Step into the Spotlight : Squash the Self-Limiting Beliefs and Embrace Your Inner Confidence with Maria Arellano](https://themilkyway.ca/step-into-the-spotlight-squash-the-self-limiting-beliefs-and-embrace-your-inner-confidence-with-maria-arellano/) - It’s time to stop letting imposter syndrome and self-limiting beliefs get in the way of our amazing businesses! Constantly comparing ourselves and our work to others instead of doing what we love with enthusiasm leaves us stuck in our heads and putting a version of ourselves out into the world that isn’t authentic. In today’s - [Systems for Success - The Power of Streamlining your Photography Business with Annemie Tonken](https://themilkyway.ca/systems-for-successful-photography-business-w-annemie-tonken/) - Whether you’re a new or seasoned photographer, setting up systems that support your business is key. There are so many tools out there for streamlining, prioritizing, and delegating … It can be overwhelming to know where to start. And easy to bounce back and forth, never settling on a defined process. In today’s episode, I’m - [Service over Sales: Cultivating an Empathy Selling Mindset with Megan DiPiero](https://themilkyway.ca/cultivating-an-empathy-selling-mindset-with-megan-dipiero/) - One of the hardest things for a professional photographer to do is raise their prices. But why is that? We get so caught up in charging according to our self-worth instead of charging for the value our clients see in the photography experience. Once you make that mindset shift, selling and scaling becomes so much - [Building Your Business Your Way: How to Ditch the Overwhelm & Find Alignment in Your Business with Krista Marie Lynch](https://themilkyway.ca/building-your-business-your-way-how-to-ditch-the-overwhelm-find-alignment-in-your-business-with-krista-marie-lynch/) - Whether you’re brand new to photography or you’ve been in business for years, you’re probably familiar with feeling the constant overwhelm during busy seasons. The solution, as we’ve been told a thousand times, is to take a step back. But how do you slow down and press pause when you’re working 24/7? In this episode, - [The Magic in Motherhood: Capturing the Mother-Child Connection with Brittany Grubbs](https://themilkyway.ca/capturing-the-mother-child-connection-through-motherhood-photography-with-brittany-grubbs/) - After a birth, all eyes are on the new baby. You take tons of pictures, make tons of memories, and try to soak up each moment before it passes. But as a baby grows, mom is also undergoing a life changing transformation, one that’s just as deserving of attention and documentation. Motherhood photography seeks to - [The Magic of Manifestation: Finding Your Soul Purpose & Path through Human Design with Ariana Joy](https://themilkyway.ca/finding-your-soul-purpose-path-through-human-design-with-ariana-joy/) - In my own life and business, I’m always on the lookout for tools I can use to better understand myself, my soul, and my purpose. Recently, I discovered human design, and I’ve been turning to my chart ever since for insight into who I am and permission to be my truest self. In this episode, - [Money Mindset : Using Your Business to Bring Ease to Your Life with Erinn Bridgman](https://themilkyway.ca/money-mindset-using-your-business-to-bring-ease-to-your-lifewith-erinn-bridgman/) - Wealthy women will change the world. This is the mission of today’s guest, money management and mindset coach Erinn Bridgman. Are you ready to change the world? Are you ready to reach your personal and professional money goals? If not, what’s holding you back? It’s likely your mindset around money. In today’s episode, I’m chatting - [Alter Egos: Discover You Super Hero Secret Identity with High-Performance Coach Todd Herman](https://themilkyway.ca/alter-egos-discover-your-super-hero-secret-identity-with-high-performance-coach-todd-herman/) - Remember when you were a kid and you spent hours playing and creating a secret identity? Making up a persona for when you played house or when you pretended to be a business person, maybe wearing your mom’s too big heels or carrying dad’s briefcase around the playroom? Kids are naturally creative and playful, and - [SEO for Photographers: Why You Need It & How to Get Started with Corey Potter](https://themilkyway.ca/seo-for-photographers-why-you-need-it-how-to-get-started-with-corey-potter/) - Does the term “SEO” give you the heebie jeebies? If so, you’re not alone! Tons of photographers neglect to optimize their websites because they aren’t sure where to start. But when you get down to it, SEO is more simple than you might think. Plus, with the right tools and resources, even the most SEO-averse - [Beyond the Body: Cultivating Self Love in Ourselves & Our Clients with Body Image Activist Teri Hofford](https://themilkyway.ca/beyond-the-body-cultivating-self-love-in-ourselves-our-clients-with-body-image-activist-teri-hofford/) - As photographers, we spend a lot of time interacting with the human body: posing it, photographing it, maybe even editing it. But sometimes, our feelings towards our own bodies can spill over into how we photograph others. As Teri explains in today’s episode, the trick to cultivating our own self love and empowering it in - [Family Filmmaking - Documentary-Style Family Films with Anja Poehlmann](https://themilkyway.ca/family-filmmaking-documentary-style-family-films-with-anja-poehlmann/) - Family photographers strive to capture a fleeting moment in time, a family as they are today before the kids grow out of this stage of life. One of the most magical ways to do that is to document a family through a documentary-style family film. While family films might seem intimidating to us photographers, they - [Ep 109: The Power of Play: Pushing Yourself Out of Your Creative Comfort Zone with Craig Strong](https://themilkyway.ca/the-power-of-play-pushing-yourself-out-of-your-creative-comfort-zone-with-craig-strong/) - Running a photography business can feel like a never-ending cycle of shoots, edits, and scheduling. When you start to lose your creative spark, you have two choices: Keep going as you are or step outside of your creative comfort zone. While it might seem intimidating, there’s no better way to rediscover your passion than learning - [Burn Brightly Without Burning Out : Aligning your Passion, Life and your Business with Alice Park from NAPCP](https://themilkyway.ca/burn-brightly-without-burnout-in-your-photography-business-with-alice-park/) - Photography is, for most of us, a seasonal business. And with seasons of hustle comes seasons of burnout. When that happens, it’s best to trust the creative cycle and lean in to your purpose. It’s so easy to get caught up in the daily work of your photography business and forget why you started it - [Pricing Strategies and Mindset Shifts for a Profitable Photography Business with Jane Goodrich](https://themilkyway.ca/pricing-strategies-for-a-profitable-photography-business-with-jane-goodrich/) - When was the last time you thought about your pricing strategies? Unfortunately, the most common answer I hear is, “Never.” Many photographers are hesitant to raise their rates, but when you overcome the mindset blocks and give yourself permission to value your time, you’ll be shocked how much your business can grow. In this episode, - [How to Work Less, Live More, and Find Balance in Your Photography Business with Katie Lamb](https://themilkyway.ca/using-automation-to-work-less-live-more-and-find-balance-in-your-photography-business/) - It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day of running a photography business: schedule, shoot, edit, repeat. But most of us–myself included–didn’t start our businesses to hustle constantly. The key to avoiding the constant hustle and eventual burnout is with automation and creating systems that allow you to work less, live more, and spend - [Creating Photography Packages That Feed Your Artistic Soul (and Your Wallet!) with Maria Arellano](https://themilkyway.ca/creating-photography-packages-that-feed-your-artistic-soul-and-your-wallet/) - Today Maria shares her philosophy on creating photography packages that ensures her business is profitable, her clients feel pampered and her artistic soul is fulfilled. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (3:32) Tips on being organized (5:52) I have ADHD, so being organized is really hard. I recommend the book “The One Thing”. I - [Take The Leap – Submitting Your Images for Critique While Prioritizing Newborn Safety – with Cara and Steph from APNPI](https://themilkyway.ca/submitting-your-images-for-critique-while-prioritizing-newborn-safety/) - Newborn safety should never be compromised for the sake of a pose. Cara and Steph talk about keeping your littlest clients safe while still challenging yourself as a creative newborn photographer. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (3:36) What is APNPI? (6:45) We started APNPI because there was very little training available specific to - [Defining Success and Setting Goals for Your Business (and Yourself!) with Jai Long](https://themilkyway.ca/defining-success-and-setting-goals-for-your-business-and-yourself-with-jai-long/) - Setting goals – clear and challenging ones – can only happen after you have clearly defined what success means to you. And that can be negatively influenced by your own limiting beliefs. Business coach Jai Long, touches on some of obstacles creatives face when shaping their lives and businesses. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher - [The Beauty of Birth: The Art, Business, & Heart of Birth Photography with Tavia Redburn](https://themilkyway.ca/the-beauty-of-birth-the-art-business-heart-of-birth-photography-with-tavia-redburn/) - In the photography world, there are few fields more intense and emotionally demanding as birth photography. You’re responsible for capturing a baby’s first moments of life and a couple’s first moments of parenthood. And in order to be there for those moments, you have to make adjustments in your own life. It’s taxing, it’s demanding, - [Copywriting for Creatives: Heartfelt Copy for Your Photography Business with Ashlyn Carter](https://themilkyway.ca/copywriting-for-creatives-heartfelt-copy-for-your-photography-business-with-ashlyn-carter/) - As photographers, we engage with our clients visually. So when it’s time to write new website copy, a social post, or even an email, it can feel super intimidating to translate your thoughts into written words. With the right tools, though, you can connect with your audience, attract your dream clients, and grow your business. - [Family First: Creating Space for Life and Family in her Photography Business with Shalonda Chaddock](https://themilkyway.ca/family-first-creating-space-for-life-and-family-in-her-photography-business-with-shalonda-chaddock/) - If you’re anything like me, your first subjects were your own children. But eventually, those squishy babies become stone-faced teens, and it becomes more and more difficult to capture moments in your everyday family life. So how do you stay inspired as your children (and your clients) grow up? In this episode, I’m chatting with - [Niche Down, Scale Up: Diversifying Your Income Without Limiting Your Creativity with Hope Taylor](https://themilkyway.ca/niche-down-without-limiting-your-creativity-with-hope-taylor/) - Should you niche down or generalize? There’s a lot of pressure for photographers to choose one area of interest. But just because you’ve found your passion doesn't mean you can’t be multipassionate! It’s totally possible (and honestly, preferable) to diversify your income, build up your passive income streams and create a well-rounded business. In this - [The Power of Personal Branding: Showing Up in Your Business Through Brand Photography with Angie McPherson](https://themilkyway.ca/showing-up-in-your-business-brand-photography-with-angie-mcpherson/) - Are you a photographer who feels uncomfortable on the other side of the camera? It’s a bit of a cliche, but it’s true: Many photographers struggle showing up in their own businesses, especially in photos. But your personality is what sets you apart, and showing it off through your personal branding is key to attracting - [Find Your Flow: Creating a Business That Works For Your Family with Shannon Smith](https://themilkyway.ca/creating-a-business-that-works-for-your-family/) - Running a business looks different for everyone. And when you’re a business owner and mother, you have to get creative to balance work and life. However you find your flow, what matters most is that you let your passion–for your work and your family–drive your creativity. In this episode, I chat with mother of two - [Spotlight on Senior Portraits: Cultivating Confidence in Teen Sessions with Ariel Perry](https://themilkyway.ca/spotlight-on-senior-portraits-cultivating-confidence-with-ariel-perry/) - The connection between a photographer and their subject is never more important than when you’re shooting senior portraits. Not only are they at a pivotal moment in their lives, but many of them struggle with self-confidence and body image. If you can dig deep into their personalities and then show them their own beauty through - [Write the Right Copy: How to Craft Website Copy That Connects with Rachel Greiman](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-craft-website-copy-that-connects-with-rachel-greiman/) - It might seem like your images sell themselves, but there’s a lot going on behind the scenes, not the least of which is your website copy. Even strong writers can struggle with copy. But once you understand your audience and your own voice, you’ll be able to connect with your readers and gently guide them - [Scheduling With Intention: How to Avoid Overwhelm & Burnout with Sabrina Gebhardt](https://themilkyway.ca/scheduling-with-intention-how-to-avoid-overwhelm-burnout-with-sabrina-gebhardt/) - It’s easy to get caught in the neverending cycle of scheduling, shooting, editing, repeat. While these tasks are important, this cycle can lead to burnout and overwhelm, causing you to lose sight of your passion for your craft. So how do you break the cycle and build a business you love? In this episode, I - [Painting Your Path: Advice on Growth Mindset and Finding Passion in Your Business with Dr. Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey](https://themilkyway.ca/advice-on-growth-mindset-and-finding-passion-in-your-business-with-dr-clarissa-castillo-ramsey/) - When you’re passionate about a lot of things, you might sometimes have the feeling that you should just pick something already. That you can’t have multiple passions, that you can’t pivot in your career, that it’s better to just pick a path than to be truly happy. But that’s the opposite of a growth mindset! - [Words of Wisdom: How Systems and Pricing Can Transform Your Business with Past Guests](https://themilkyway.ca/how-systems-and-pricing-can-transform-your-business-with-past-guests/) - Whether you’re starting out as a photographer or you’re several years in and looking to grow your business, creating systems that work for you and setting prices that are sustainable can be transformative to your business. Today’s episode is a compilation of some of my favorite pieces of advice on systems, pricing, and profitability from - [Consious Creation : Embracing a Mindfulness Mindset in your Photography Business with Johl Dunn](https://themilkyway.ca/consious-creation-embracing-a-mindfulness-mindset-in-your-photography-business-with-johl-dunn/) - Sometimes, the thing getting in your way… is you. Your mindset can be the difference between a business you love and one you resent. And in order to improve your mindset, you have to reconstruct your thoughts about yourself and your business. In this episode, I chat with Johl Dunn, a mindset coach who helps - [A Website That Works: Website Strategy for Photographers with Kelsey Christine from Launch Your Daydream](https://themilkyway.ca/a-website-that-works-website-strategy-for-photographers-with-kelsey-christine-from-launch-your-daydream/) - A great website should do more than look pretty. It should help you attract and convert your ideal clients, without driving you crazy in the design and maintenance processes. And while the design is important, your website strategy is about a lot more than looks. In fact, planning your site strategy starts long before you - [Marketing Mashup: Past Guests Share Their Best Advice on Marketing and Making an Unforgettable Experience for Your Clients](https://themilkyway.ca/marketing-mashup-past-guests-share-their-best-advice-on-marketing-and-making-an-unforgettable-experience-for-your-clients/) - The way you market your photography business, from email and your website to the way you interact with your clients is crucial to growing a sustainable business. The client/photographer relationship starts long before you begin a session, and you can create an unforgettable experience through education, marketing, and nurturing your clients before and even after - [Get Found with Fuse: Demystifying SEO Marketing with Feuza Reis](https://themilkyway.ca/get-found-with-fuse-demystifying-seo-marketing-with-feuza-reis/) - SEO marketing is a powerful tool for your business. So powerful that the ins and outs of making it happen can feel overwhelming and complicated. Putting yourself and your services out into the world in the most effective way doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to be a marketing expert. But understanding some user-friendly and - [Advising Clients What to Wear for a Photo Shoot Using Style and Select with Holly Mueller & Melissa Grindstaff](https://themilkyway.ca/advising-clients-what-to-wear-for-a-photo-shoot/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher One of the first questions new clients ask is what to wear for a photo shoot. The Style and Select service makes styling your clients with carefully coordinated outfits easy and convenient. Introduction (1:53) How did Style and Select come to be? (4:46) We had to extensively guide our - [Creating Balance & Ease in Your Photography Business with Dawn Potter](https://themilkyway.ca/creating-balance-ease-in-your-photography-business-with-dawn-potter/) - Whether you’re working with newborns, older kids, or even adults, you have to expect the unexpected in your photography business. Late show-ups, last-minute additions, extreme messes–as photographers, we just have to roll with it! And while you can’t prepare yourself for everything, you can create systems in your business that help your clients get comfortable - [Finding Meaning in Connection with Jesh de Rox](https://themilkyway.ca/finding-meaning-with-connection/) - As photographers, we’re witnesses to some of the most intimate moments in a person’s life: their wedding, their journey through pregnancy, their first tender moments with a newborn. And as humans, we have the choice every day to find, facilitate, and appreciate these moments in our own lives. The only question is whether or not - [3 Steps To Get More Photography Clients That You Love, with Lisa Edwards from Photo Bacon](https://themilkyway.ca/3-steps-to-get-more-photography-clients-that-you-love/) - Lisa has developed a no-fail system for you to get more photography clients that make your heart sing, by simply answering 3 questions about your business. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (2:30) Why Photo Bacon? (3:30) Where should photographers start to get more photography clients that they want? (4:09) Step 1: What is - [The Photography Lessons That Shaped My Life and My Business, With Kelly Brown](https://themilkyway.ca/the-photography-lessons-that-shaped-my-life-and-my-business-with-kelly-brown/) - Kelly reflects on a 17-year career as a newborn photographer and educator and shares the photography lessons (and life lessons!) she has learned along the way. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (3:45) How did you find your love for photography? (4:47) I had to take photos around construction sites for my job as - [The Creative's Roadmap: Creating a Vision For Your Life and Your Business with Lisa DiGeso](https://themilkyway.ca/the-creatives-roadmap-creating-a-vision-for-your-life-and-your-business-with-lisa-digeso/) - You are the hero of your own story. In today’s very special 100th episode we’re gonna be talking about creating a vision for your life and for your business. It has almost nothing to do with photography specifically but everything to do with you and your mindset. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher We often forget we - [Daring Greatly - Dealing with Criticism as a Creative with Lisa DiGeso](https://themilkyway.ca/daring-greatly-dealing-with-criticism-as-a-creative-with-lisa-digeso/) - Have you ever suffered from an artistic identity crisis or received hurtful criticism about your art that left you struggling with your confidence as an artist? In this episode, we chat about a lightbulb moment we had by reminding ourselves that it’s not the criticism that matters, rather how we handle that criticism that - [Serve and Deserve: How Your Money Personality Could Be Impacting Your Photography Business with Denise Duffield-Thomas](https://themilkyway.ca/serve-and-deserve-how-your-money-personality-could-be-impacting-your-photography-business-with-denise-duffield-thomas/) - Denise is known for her ability to help women charge premium prices, release fear and blocks around money and create first-class lives. I was lucky enough to meet Denise in-person at a retreat a few years ago and I loved her take on dropping the need to "hustle." If you've struggled charging a price that would - [Choose Your Own Adventure: Effective and Authentic Social Media Strategies for Your Photography Business - with Tyler McCall](https://themilkyway.ca/choose-your-own-adventure-effective-and-authentic-social-media-strategies-for-your-photography-business-with-tyler-mccall/) - If you are someone who struggles on how to make social media work FOR your business...vs sucking you into a blackhole of endless scrolling, and you need a little permission to show up as yourself, this episode on effective and authentic social media strategies for your photography business is for you! SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher - [Vendor Relationships in the World of Newborn Photography Props - A Chat with Trae Bohlen from Devoted Knits](https://themilkyway.ca/vendor-relationships-in-the-world-of-photography-props-a-chat-with-trae-bohlen-from-devoted-knits/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Discover more about Trae BohlenWebsite:www.devotedknits.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/devotedknitsFacebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/devotedknitsvipInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/devotedknits/Bio: I love the prop industry and have been knitting and creating for newborns since 2010 with my knits being worn by both of Kelly Clarksons babies and featured in USWeekly, Entertainment Tonight and People.com. I coined the term "bump blanket" and made the first - [Business without Burnout: The Keys to Setting Yourself up for Sustainable Photography Success on Your Terms with Jenna Henderson](https://themilkyway.ca/business-without-burnout-the-keys-to-setting-yourself-up-for-sustainable-photography-success-on-your-terms-with-jenna-henderson/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher I'm not sure if you can relate, but I am a people-pleaser by nature, which often leads to overbooking, undercharging and…ultimately burnout. In this episode, Jenna and I chat about the link between confidence and our ability to detach our identity from our business and also, getting SUPER clear - [Reclaim Your Time - Using Automation Strategies to Create a Profitable and Sustainable Photography Business with Colie James](https://themilkyway.ca/reclaim-your-time-using-automation-strategies-to-create-a-profitable-and-sustainable-photography-business-with-colie-james/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Colie joins me today on the podcast to talk about building a profitable and sustainable photography business. We talk about automation + reclaiming your time with strategy and streamlining. She also shares the benefits of doing automation early in your business so that you create the time and space - [Why Photography Matters - Remembering the Importance of What We Do with Russ Jackson](https://themilkyway.ca/why-photography-matters-remembering-the-importance-of-what-we-do-with-russ-jackson/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Discover more about Russ Jackson Website: www.russjacksonphotography.co.ukFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/russjacksonphotographyInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/russjacksonphotography/Bio:With 20 years of experience in photographing families, children, and newborn babies, Russ is considered one of the most experienced portrait photographers in the U.K. Russ has been teaching studio lighting and the art of newborn photography for the last seven years and regularly - [Profit Over Hustle - The Importance of Being a Profitable Photographer with Tanya Smith](https://themilkyway.ca/profit-over-hustle-the-importance-of-being-a-profitable-photographer-with-tanya-smith/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Discover more about Tanya Smith Website: https://www.profitableportraits.comFacebook Group: tanyasmitheducationInstagram: tanyalsmith.photography Bio:Tanya has been a women’s portrait photographer since 2011 and fell in love with how a boudoir session can change the way a woman sees herself.She has a background in corporate banking and sales, but still, she tried to figure everything out on - [The Secrets Behind a Successful Husband and Wife Photography Team with Christina Merez](https://themilkyway.ca/the-secrets-behind-a-successful-husband-and-wife-photography-team/) - Newborn photographer Christina Merez shares how her and husband Carlos make it work as a husband and wife photography team. From roles to boundaries to styles – there is a lot to unpack about this special dynamic. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (2:27) How did you and Carlos become a husband and wife - [Photography Marketing … From The Heart with Julie Christie](https://themilkyway.ca/photography-marketing-from-the-heart/) - Too many people think that creative entrepreneurs have to struggle with photography marketing. Julie Christie dispels that notion with thought-provoking, actionable tips to align your photography marketing and business processes with your own heart and personality. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (2:25) How do you realize your worth as a photographer? (4:15) I - [Balancing Motherhood and Your Photography Business with Ashley Freehan](https://themilkyway.ca/balancing-motherhood-and-your-photography-business/) - You don’t have to choose between being a good mother or a good business owner. Ashley shares strategies on balancing motherhood while still running a profitable and sustainable photography business. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (2:15) What is the key to avoiding burnout? (2:56) Self-care. Everyone needs some blank space, time for just - [Earn More Without Working More – The Simple Sales System with Annemie Tonken](https://themilkyway.ca/the-simple-sales-system/) - A good system in your photography business is one that allows you to maximize your profits while making the best use of your time and talents. Enter: the Simple Sales System, a revolutionary way to run a profitable, sustainable business that you love. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (2:25) What is the #1 - [The Importance Of Checking In With Your Inner Child, with Fine Art Photographer Tara Mapes](https://themilkyway.ca/fine-art-photographer-tara-mapes/) - Growing up in nature with a mom who inspired and nurtured her creativity, Tara Mapes has developed a signature style as a fine art photographer that has clients clamouring for her art. Today she shares with us more about her inspiration and creative process. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (3:05) How did you - [8 Signs You’re Heading for Photography Burnout – with Lisa DiGeso](https://themilkyway.ca/8-signs-youre-heading-for-photography-burnout/) - Photography burnout is caused by a culmination of daily stress, whether it be work, life, not enough alone or creative time, or doing work that just isn’t meaningful to you. Burnout is not about giving too much of yourself, it's about trying to give what you do not possess. Today we chat about the signs that - [Mind Your Mind: Mindfulness for Creativity with Heidi Hope](https://themilkyway.ca/mindfulness-for-creativity-with-heidi-hope/) - Tending to both your business mind and your creative mind, and having both thrive, can be challenging for photographers. Heidi Hope shows us how practising mindfulness for creativity and love of self will result in a higher state of consciousness. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (3:47) Advice on how to explore multiple passions - [Say Yes to Scary Things – Getting Started in Family Films with Sarah Krieg](https://themilkyway.ca/getting-started-in-family-films-with-sarah-krieg/) - Making family films can be an intimidating venture when you’re just starting out, but in today’s episode, Sarah Krieg inspires us with her bold and fearless passion for new experiences. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (4:17) How do you pair your love of filmmaking with your family sessions? (11:52) I’m a storyteller, and - [Everyone Deserves To Have Their Story Told - Photographing Children with Special Needs with Iris Hu](https://themilkyway.ca/photographing-children-with-special-needs/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Photographing children with special needs happened organically for Iris Hu, as parents were drawn to her natural, unposed way of documenting connections between family members. She shares her approach to family photography with us today, deeply connecting it to her “why” as a photographer. Introduction (4:40) How did you - [Capturing the Magic of Motherhood - Maternity Photography with Ashly Collins](https://themilkyway.ca/maternity-photography-with-ashly-collins/) - Inspired by her own struggles with pregnancy, Ashly has niched to maternity photography only, and has become an expert in finding, and creating, the magical moments of maternity for moms. Bring your tissues for this episode! SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (4:15) How did you discover your love for maternity photography? (5:57) I - [Embracing Your Multi-Passionate Creative Self with D’Ana Joi Spencer](https://themilkyway.ca/embracing-your-multi-passionate-creative-self/) - With the overwhelming majority of business leaders telling you to niche down, multi-passionate creative and entrepreneur D’Ana Joi Spencer offers an alternative view, where you can be creatively curious and see so much more possibility for yourself and your business. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (5:16) Advice for people seeing being multi-passionate as - [8 Ways to Get Out of a Creative Rut with Lisa Digeso](https://themilkyway.ca/8-ways-to-get-out-of-a-creative-rut-with-lisa-digeso/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher When you are in a creative rut and you’re having an artistic identity crisis, our 8 tips will help you get rid of that self-doubt and confusion. Artistic confidence does not come from external validation like thumbs up and likes. It comes from creating work that you truly love - [Finding your Artistic Voice with Fine Art Photographer Shannon Squires](https://themilkyway.ca/finding-your-artistic-voice-with-fine-art-photographer-shannon-squires/) - Shannon and I explore how to niche down as a fine art photographer, and stay true to your artistic vision while still servicing a client market. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (4:32) How do you define a fine art photographer? (5:38) When you have full control over the creative process and vision, and - [Break the Rules! The Key to Creative Photography with Joanne Widart](https://themilkyway.ca/the-key-to-creative-photography-with-joanne-widart/) - Overcoming the fear of failing creatively starts with building your own self-esteem. A true artist, Joanne Widart speaks to the process of creative photography and how she finds inspiration to empower women in her art. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Introduction (3:58) How do you break the rules to create art? (4:53) I’m like - [Introducing...The Art & Soul Show](https://themilkyway.ca/introducing-the-art-soul-show/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Welcome to the Art & Soul Show, where we dive heart-opening chats on photography, business, life & that messy in-between. The goal of the podcast is to help you create a photography business and life you are passionate about and to help you get clarity around questions like... how - [It's Ok to Not Feel Ok Right Now with Tiffany Burke](https://themilkyway.ca/its-ok-to-not-feel-ok-right-now/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Struggling with how to feel, what to do, who to be during the COVID-19 pandemic? You are not alone, and in today’s episode, Tiffany Burke shares her personal experiences on how she’s trying to care for her mental well-being (and not always succeeding). Grace, my friends, is what we all need - [Creating Connection In Your Sessions with Stormy Solis](https://themilkyway.ca/creating-connection-in-your-sessions-with-stormy-solis/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher You hear it all the time, “Try to capture authentic moments” - but how do you actually do that? Stormy Solis joins me on the show today to share her insight on how she captures such poetic moments in epic locations around the world. Her photography is all heart - [The Value Of Leading With Love (and How It Keeps You Moving Forward) with Jadah Sellner](https://themilkyway.ca/the-value-of-leading-with-love-and-how-it-keeps-you-moving-forward-with-jadah-sellner/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Make no mistake, as a business owner metrics and money matter if you want a sustainable business. But in today’s show, our guest, Jadah Sellner makes the case as to why she believes that people matter more. She shares why she passionately believes in following your truth, finding clarity - [Flipping The Script On Using Email Marketing - It's About Serving, Not Selling with Nate Grahek](https://themilkyway.ca/flipping-the-script-on-using-email-marketing-its-about-serving-not-selling/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Is email dead? Or can it actually help you build relationships and book more clients? Yes! But we’re not talking about impersonal random sales messages littering up your subscribers' inboxes. Nate Grahek of Sticky Marketing joins me on the show today to help flip the script on email marketing (and - [Unlocking The Power Of A Creative Community That Benefits Everyone with Malia Battilana](https://themilkyway.ca/unlocking-the-power-of-a-creative-community-that-benefits-everyone/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher You may have heard the saying ‘collaboration over competition’ - but what does that actually mean? And how do you even connect with other photographers in your local community? (And is there actually a benefit?) Today's guest, Malia Battilana shares her experience in how building local community was instrumental - [How You Can Confidently Sell Your Work (and Not Your Soul) with Chris Scott](https://themilkyway.ca/how-you-can-confidently-sell-your-work-and-not-your-soul/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Want to sell more to your clients without feeling uncomfortable? Today’s guest, Chris Scott of the Printmaker System by Swift Galleries is passionate about helping other photographers realize our role as photographers is so much more than ‘taking the shot.’ When you can truly shift your mindset away from - [Using Unique Portrait Ideas To Boost Your Visibility (and Go Viral) with Sujata Setia](https://themilkyway.ca/using-unique-portrait-ideas-to-boost-your-visibility-and-go-viral-with-sujata-setia/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Have you ever wondered how some photographers seem to get featured and go viral? Sujata Setia has done exactly that - several times over - and in today’s show, she shares her simple process on how she achieves that. You’ll also discover how she started creating generational portraits - [Why Perfectionism Is Holding You Back with Sharon McMahon](https://themilkyway.ca/why-perfectionism-is-holding-you-back/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher You cannot THINK your way into being successful. But what do you do when you find yourself paralyzed on which direction to head? You’ll love the wisdom from today’s guest, Sharon McMahon who shares the best way out of perfectionism and the importance of being willing to do it - [The Key to Empowering Your Clients (and Yourself) with Teri Hofford](https://themilkyway.ca/the-key-to-empowering-your-clients-and-yourself/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Teri is an incredible body empowerment photographer who goes beyond just taking photos of her clients. In this episode, she highlights the important distinction between body neutrality vs body positivity and how to use these concepts and the power of photography to renew your clients' self-confidence. Teri also shares - [Cultivating An Attitude Of Adaptability with Heidi Hope](https://themilkyway.ca/cultivating-an-attitude-of-adaptability-with-heidi-hope/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Heidi Hope truly embodies courage, kindness, and faith in herself. Her ability to listen to her inner voice and pivot when her heart tells her it’s time is so powerful. She shares advice on staying inspired, finding passion when you’re burned out and teaches us that imperfect action is - [How to Stay Front of Mind to Your Clients During This Pandemic (and Why it's Essential for Your Business) with Easton Reynolds](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-stay-front-of-mind-to-your-clients-during-this-pandemic-and-why-its-essential-for-your-business/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher There is so much uncertainty in the world right now but one thing we do know for certain is that this will not be our forever new normal. Fact: Taking photos only makes up about 10-20% of the time you spend on your photography business. Today's guest, Easton Reynolds - [Using the Charcuterie Board Theory to Show up Authentically Online with Cyrissa Carlson](https://themilkyway.ca/using-the-charcuterie-board-theory-to-show-up-authentically-online-with-cyrissa-carlson/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher A charcuterie board? … yes, that’s right friends! Cyrissa provides the best analogy for how to set up your social media platform beginning with the platter and then carefully selecting the meats, cheeses, and accouterments to appeal to all your unique follower's personalities. So if you’ve ever found yourself - [How to Move from Worker Bee to CEO Mode - The Power of Planning & Process with Bryan Capporrici](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-move-from-worker-bee-to-ceo-mode-the-power-of-planning-process-with-bryan-capporrici/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher We love our photography businesses, but sometimes it feels like we spend so much of our time shooting, editing, emailing, and we don't prioritize the other aspects of running a business. On this week's episode, my guest Bryan Caporrici and I tackle some big topics- why client experience can - [Sincere Storytelling - Unpacking the Creative Process with Jessica Drossin](https://themilkyway.ca/sincere-storytelling-unpacking-the-creative-process-with-jessica-drossin/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Have you ever wondered what goes into the incredible Art that Fine Art Portrait photographer, Jessica Drossin creates? In this episode we unpack Jessica’s creative process and what truly goes into creating Authentic storytelling art. We talk about how she comes up with concepts, and the importance of - [Authentic Relationship Building in a Digital World with Trista Smith](https://themilkyway.ca/authentic-relationship-building-in-a-digital-world-with-trista-smith/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Trista Smith is the designer from Reclamation design company. Those dreamy flowy lace dresses with a boho feel from a company that focuses on sustainability and intentional fashion. She creates dresses infused with purpose, intention, and joy with a brand aligned with those same values. Her intention is to - [Cultivating Copy that Connects with Kim Anderson](https://themilkyway.ca/cultivating-copy-that-connects-with-kim-anderson/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher We’ve probably all been there... staring at the blinking cursor and not quite knowing what to say or write. She hung up her camera in 2016 after a 20-year career as a wedding photographer vowing as to never eat saucy chicken again on a Saturday, but she can write - [Beyond the Pose: the Power & Joy in Capturing Moments that Can't be Replicated with Kristen Cook](https://themilkyway.ca/beyond-the-pose-the-power-joy-in-capturing-moments-that-cant-be-replicated-with-kristen-cook/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher If you are someone who has ever felt bored or stuck in your photography, and that your sessions start to blend together, then this conversation is for you. I absolutely loved this conversation with Kristen Cook - the incredible Melbourne based photographer known for moving images, filled with emotion - [Personal Brand Photography & Creating Super Fans with Jamie Swanson](https://themilkyway.ca/personal-brand-photography-creating-super-fans-with-jamie-swanson/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher You may have heard about a new genre of photography for Entrepreneurs, Small businesses & Influencers. Consumable photography to help clients, connect & build their Personal Brands? Marketing powerhouse Jamie Swanson saw the potential in this new industry and made it her mission to educate photographers on how they - [Putting Down the Camera & Making a Pivot - How to Use Adaptability as a Super Power with Molly Keyser](https://themilkyway.ca/putting-down-the-camera-making-a-pivot-how-to-use-adaptability-as-a-super-power-with-molly-keyser/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher “Change is scary… but what is even scarier - regret” - unknown Molly Marie Keyser was the owner of Boudie Shorts, and walked away to start something brand new in the entrepreneurial space. Molly grew a photo studio to multiple 6 figures and others were asking her how she - [Styling with Intention - with Kate Boggs](https://themilkyway.ca/styling-with-intention-kate-boggs/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Figuring out your own style can be a challenge on its own, but then figuring out how to communicate through wardrobe choices to your clients, can feel super overwhelming. Kate Boggs shares with us her process of styling her clients, including some of her favorite places to shop. She - [Building Lifetime Client Friendships - with Hailey Faria](https://themilkyway.ca/building-lifetime-friendship-client-relationships-with-haley-faria/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher “Be genuinely interested in everyone you meet and everyone you meet will be genuinely interested in you”― Rasheed Ogunlaru She approaches each session as if she and her clients are old friends catching up, not looking at it like a paycheque, but expanding her circle larger and larger every - [There Isn't Just One Way to Run a Business - All Inclusive Model with Brigette Schaffarzick](https://themilkyway.ca/there-isnt-just-one-way-to-run-a-business-all-inclusive-model-with-brigette-schaffarzick/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher It can sometimes feel like there is only 1 way to run a business… and that may be how you are doing it is wrong. #nottrue In this Episode with Brigette Schaffarzick from Penguin Pictures based in Seattle, we discuss why she decided to have an all-inclusive photography business - [Emotional Storytelling with Twyla Jones](https://themilkyway.ca/emotional-storytelling-with-twyla-jones/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Twyla Jones creates & preserves beautiful memories for others while simultaneously sharing her incredible talent teaching photographers. After her second baby was born she picked up a camera and now travels the world doing what she loves. She is a master at her craft of creating emotive storytelling images - [Going Beyond the Expectation - The Importance of Creating an Experience for Clients with Donatella Nicolini](https://themilkyway.ca/going-beyond-the-expectation-the-importance-of-creating-an-experience-for-clients-with-donatella-nicolini/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher “At the end of the day people won't remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou Donatella Nicolini is known for her stunning Fine Art portraits of motherhood & expectant mamas. She has positioned herself as a high-end luxury photography studio - [Managing Your Energy in Alignment with Your Creative Process with Hannah Fitzgibbon](https://themilkyway.ca/managing-your-energy-in-alignment-with-your-creative-process-with-hannah-fitzgibbon/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Do you find yourself judging when you have an off-day? Have you been frustrated by the feeling that your creativity is gone? Or have you struggled with sticking to a time-management system that feels good to you?If so, don't miss this conversation with Hannah Fitzgibbon. As a coach - [Intimate Artistry Photography & Self-Love with Keshia Rice](https://themilkyway.ca/intimate-artistry-photography-self-love-with-keshia-rice/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher I stumbled across Keshia Rice’s stunning work earlier this year. She is a boudoir photographer based in Hawaii. She focuses on mental health, and empowerment and believes boudoir is for all shapes & sizes. She focuses on the experience for her clients leaving them feeling empowered safe and celebrated - [Storytelling Children's Portraiture with Danielle Trina](https://themilkyway.ca/storytelling-childrens-portraiture-with-danielle-trina/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher She has always been creative by nature. Her journey toward becoming her authentic self began 10 years ago when she fought a battle with cancer that invaded her pancreas. She won that battle and became a survivor.She feels she survived more than cancer, she became a survivor of life - [Shooting from the Soul - Connecting with Your Work & Clients with Visual Artist Jasmin Jade](https://themilkyway.ca/shooting-from-the-soul-connecting-with-your-work-clients-with-visual-artist-jasmin-jade/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher She is the powerhouse behind Jasmin Jade photography & Embrace presets. Her work is full of soul & heart. As soon as I read on Jasmin's website that she was also a believer in community over competition and the power of working together, I knew we were going to - [Fine Art Children's Portraits with Lisset Perrier](https://themilkyway.ca/fine-art-childrens-portraits-with-lisset-perrier/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Her work is both ethereal, storytelling, and completely fine art. Lisset Perrier's photography journey began 6 years ago. She found her vocation in art at an early age and has been drawing and painting ever since. She has never taken a photography class however did grow up around cameras and - [Beyond a Selfie - Creating Fine Art Self Portraits with Intention, Connection & Love with LeAnna Azzolini](https://themilkyway.ca/beyond-a-selfie-creating-fine-art-self-portraits-with-intention-connection-love-with-leanna-azzolini/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher LeAnna Azzolini is an adventure-seeking, outdoor enthusiast based in a small beach town in Southern California called Dana Point. Motherhood is her main muse, she is known in the industry for her stunning self-portraits and she enjoys mentoring and guiding other photographers through their own journey in finding their - [Building a Brand with Intention & Alignment with Bernel Westbrook](https://themilkyway.ca/building-a-brand-with-intention-alignment-with-bernel-westbrook/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher With a background deeply rooted in fine art and a degree in web development, she lives by her motto "to obsess over the details so you don't have to." Bernel Westbrook works with creative entrepreneurs to build brands and websites that establish a foundation of trust. Since she started - [Multi-Passionate Creativity & Finding Your Value as an Artist with Elisha Weger](https://themilkyway.ca/multi-passionate-creativity-finding-your-value-as-an-artist-with-elisha-weger/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Elisha Weger joins me today with her whole heart to chat about her journey with accreditation and why it is so important to her as well as her perspective on becoming a multi-faceted entrepreneur. She shares advice about how to get started with accreditation, finding her value as an - [Hustling with Heart & Authenticity - with Michelle Harris.](https://themilkyway.ca/hustling-with-heart-authenticity-with-michelle-harris/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Michelle Harris is a destination wedding photographer based in the DC area. She is the owner and lead photographer at M Harris Studios in addition to her associate team, Laila Chanel Studios where she manages 15+ freelance photographers. Along with her photography services, she is a leader and educator for - [It's Ok to Ask For Help - Hiring a Virtual Assistant with Abbey Ashley](https://themilkyway.ca/its-ok-to-ask-for-help-hiring-a-virtual-assistant-with-abbey-ashley/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together” ~ African Proverb We get so caught up in I can do it all myself, and there is almost shame in asking for help, or admitting you can not do it all. There - [Connective Storytelling Photography … No Business Needed! with Lindsey Shedd](https://themilkyway.ca/connective-storytelling-photography-with-lindsey-shedd/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher You can be a photographer creating storytelling photography without taking on clients. Lindsey Shedd shares how she uses her own kids to tell stories filled with movement, connection and atmosphere. Introduction (4:21) How did you discover your love of photography? (4:43) After my 3rd son was born, I wanted - [The Power of a Niche with Paulina Duczman](https://themilkyway.ca/the-power-of-a-niche-with-paulina-duczman/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher "You gotta keep trying to find your niche and trying to fit into whatever slot that's left for you or to make one of your own." ~ Dolly Parton "You gotta keep trying to find your niche and trying to fit into whatever slot that's left for you or - [There Isn't Just One Way to Run a Business - The In Person Sales Business Model with Shannon Morton](https://themilkyway.ca/there-isnt-just-one-way-to-run-a-business-the-in-person-sales-business-model-with-shannon-morton/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Shannon Morton Photography is a professional portrait studio located in the Bryan/College Station, TX area. She runs a portrait studio with another photographer, as well as has a very profitable IPS business model. I wanted to share Shannon with you because she is a photographer with a successful IPS - [Finding Your Voice with Caroline Jensen](https://themilkyway.ca/finding-your-voice-with-caroline-jensen/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher If you're someone that feels like you can't find your voice & gets a little lost on your artistic journey from time to time.. you are absolutely not alone. In this episode, I chat with Caroline Jensen, a Sony Artisan of Imagery, who is an award-winning photographic artist that - [Luxury Branding & Artistic Value with Scott Robert Lim](https://themilkyway.ca/luxury-branding-artistic-value-with-scott-robert-lim/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher In this episode, we dive into topics on confidence and advice from Scott's mentor that helped him become the world-renowned photographer and speaker he is today. Sony Artisan and international master photographer Scott Robert Lim is a certified educator and has over 70 international awards to his name, including - [Business Tune-Up Advice with the Marketing Queen -Julia Kelleher](https://themilkyway.ca/business-tune-up-advice-with-the-marketing-queen-julia-kelleher/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Julia Kelleher is quite literally the queen of marketing your photography business. I knew when it comes to sharing advice on marketing and mindset, she was the perfect guest to have on the show. In this episode, we unpack how self-worth, marketing & mindset are all interconnected.Julia Kelleher is - [Preparation is the Key to Success - With Mark Rossetto](https://themilkyway.ca/preparation-is-the-key-to-success-with-mark-rossetto/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Mark Rosetto, is one of the kindest & knowledgeable business masters that wholeheartedly cares about his students and helping them succeed. I love how he combines his love for life & business coaching and how that plays out in how he runs his business. Mark Rossetto is an international award-winning - [Secrets From a Baby Whisperer with Charlotte Gamache](https://themilkyway.ca/secrets-from-a-baby-whisperer-with-charlotte-gamache/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Have you ever wondered what goes into being a baby whisperer? Some photographers seem to make those posed newborn sessions look absolutely effortless. Charlotte Gamache is known for her excellence in newborn posing, wrapping, and safely educating newborn photographers around the world. In this episode, we chat about her - [Bellies Babies & Branding with Jessica Nip](https://themilkyway.ca/bellies-babies-branding-with-jessica-nip/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Jessica Nip is a lifestyle portrait photographer specializing in maternity, newborn, and family work. She is an ambassador for the Association of Professional Newborn Photographers International.Jessica works in both her home studio and in client homes, and she is able to problem-solve her way around any lighting situation to - [Instagram & Brand Marketing Your Newborn & Family Photography Business with Zakeya Smith](https://themilkyway.ca/instagram-brand-marketing-your-newborn-family-photography-business-with-zakeya-smith/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Ever find yourself overcomplicating things when it comes to marketing your photography studio? Especially when it comes to social media? If so, tune in to today’s episode where Zakeya Smith breaks down the simple steps she’s taken to see big results when it comes to social (especially Instagram) to - [Sparking Creativity with Natalie Houlding](https://themilkyway.ca/sparking-creativity-with-natalie-houlding/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Ever find your creative spark fizzling out? When was the last time you gave yourself a true break? And how can you use everyday life to find inspiration for your photography sessions? I'm joined by Natalie Houlding, a digital artist and newborn photographer who realized creating digital backdrops would - [Helping Your Clients Find Their Inner Goddess - with Natasha Ince](https://themilkyway.ca/helping-your-clients-find-their-inner-goddess-with-natasha-ince/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Learn how to create an incredible experience for your maternity clients that leaves them feeling empowered and amazing in their images. In this episode, Natasha shares her insight on how to inspire confidence in your clients (and yourself) and how her mindset about self-care has changed her own outlook and inspired - [The Business of Babies - Running a Profitable Photography Business with Erin Elizabeth Hoskins](https://themilkyway.ca/profitable-photography-business-with-erin-elizabeth/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher I see this all the time where people say “I’m booked up for 6 or 8 months”.And I always say “What are you doing! Raise your prices!”If you’re booked for 6 months solid, you could double, or triple, your prices. And be working so much less for the same, - [The Art of Storytelling Lifestyle Newborn Photography with Michelle McKay](https://themilkyway.ca/the-art-of-storytelling-lifestyle-newborn-photography-with-michelle-mckay/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher In today’s episode, Michelle McKay shares with us her storytelling mindset, and how she creates artful, organic, and nostalgic images for her in-home lifestyle newborn clients that catch those beautiful, ordinary, seemingly inconsequential moments that ultimately make up the sum of our lives. Discovering a love for lifestyle newborn - [The Luxury Fine Art Studio with Joanna Booth from Sanguine Portraiture](https://themilkyway.ca/the-luxury-fine-art-studio/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher “Do unto others as you would want done to yourself … but take it up a notch.” This approach to her luxury fine art studio portraiture has ensured Joanna Booth’s clients walk away with museum quality works of art, allowing them to remember their strength, grace, and confidence during - [Finding Your WHY as a Photographer - with Denise from Appleseed Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/finding-your-why-as-a-photographer/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher What is your why as a photographer? In today’s episode we speak to Denise Urness, who started her journey to being a newborn photographer as a Milky Way student, and has now come full circle by returning as a teacher. She is solid on her big why as a - [Worth Every Penny...with Photography Marketing Queen Sarah Petty](https://themilkyway.ca/worth-every-penny-with-photography-marketing-queen-sarah-petty/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Today we speak with photography marketing guru Sarah Petty about her goal of providing photographers with the toolkits, mindsets, and skillsets to take their photography business to the next level. Introduction (2:21) Sarah’s journey from corporate America to her own photography studio to the world of photography marketing is - [10 Things I Wish I Knew When I Was Getting Started with Newborn Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/10-things-i-wish-i-knew-when-i-was-getting-started-with-newborn-photography/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher If you are just getting started with newborn photography, know that you are not alone - I was right there once as well. Over the years I have had so many lessons - things that I have tried and didn't work out, or just mindset shifts I needed to - [Cultivating a Work Life Balance with Balance Coach & Photographer Jenna Henderson](https://themilkyway.ca/cultivating-a-work-life-balance/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Today, Balance Coach Jenna touches on key elements in maintaining a work life balance as creatives, enabling us to truly show up as the best version of ourselves, both in business and our personal lives. Intro (2:02) Work life balance is especially hard for photographers who are also parents, - [Creating Living Poetry Through Connection in Family Photos with Jodi Lynn Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/creating-living-poetry-through-connection-in-family-photos-with-jodi-lynn-photography/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Creating connection in family photos is Jodi Lynn’s superpower, and in today’s episode, she shares her thoughts and tips on capturing the emotions and stories of families in your sessions. Introduction (3:00) What does “creating living poetry through imagery” mean to you? (3:31) It’s about creating real images and - [Staying Creative - Handling Slow Times in Business with Tamarind Spender](https://themilkyway.ca/staying-creative-handling-slow-times-in-business-with-tamarind-spender/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Today, Tamarind shares some valuable advice on what to do with those slow times in business, especially during the lockdowns and restrictions we have to deal with these days. Introduction (2:20) What drew you to newborn photography? (4:00) I’ve always enjoyed photography, but was envious when I saw other - [Magical Motherhood Photography with Sherida Rae Taylor](https://themilkyway.ca/magical-motherhood-with-sherida-rae-taylor/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Discover more about Sherida Rae TaylorWebsite: www.sheridaraephotography.caFacebook: @SheridaRaePhotographyInstagram: @sherida_rae_photographyBio:Sherida is a motherhood photographer living on Vancouver Island in BC, Canada with her husband and four children.She is a ClickPro, Offset Artist, and a volunteer photographer with Spectrum Inspired, which is a non-profit organization that gives free sessions to families touched by autism.Sherida's - [From Frazzled to Focused - Creating Photography Workflows and Systems with Iris-Works Founder Meredith Gradle](https://themilkyway.ca/creating-photography-workflows-and-systems/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Meredith shows us how mastering photography workflows and systems allow you to bring the fun back to your business, and connect to the reason you got into this industry in the first place: taking beautiful photos. Introduction (2:28) A lot goes into running a photography business – there is - [Your Editing Style - Finding Your Voice In Photoshop with Morgan Burks](https://themilkyway.ca/your-editing-style-finding-your-voice-in-photoshop/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Photographic artist Morgan Burks chats to me today about how developing an editing style through experimentation will empower you to edit confidently and creatively in Photoshop. Introduction (2:27) What is your editing process? (2:46) I have standard steps to create a clean base edit for each photo (exposure, white - [Finding Passion, Profit, and Purpose in your Photography Business with Dr Tomayia Colvin](https://themilkyway.ca/finding-passion-profit-and-purpose-in-your-photography-business/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Dr Tomayia Colvin shares her strategies on running a photography business that feeds your personal why and embraces diversity, while staying profitable and fueled with a passion for your craft. Introduction (3:04) How did you get in photography? (4:01) I used to be a scrapbooker, and I needed photos - [No Compromises - Ensuring Newborn Baby Safety with Stephanie Robin](https://themilkyway.ca/ensuring-newborn-baby-safety-with-stephanie-robin/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Stephanie Robin is one of the leading advocates for baby safety in the photography industry, and she shares her expertise on keeping newborns safe and secure during sessions. Introduction (2:45) How has your training as physiotherapist helped to train photographers in baby safety? (3:19) I’ve always had an interest - [Legal Advice for Photographers - Protecting Your Business Without Losing Your Heart with Rachel Brenke](https://themilkyway.ca/legal-advice-for-photographers/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher The founder of TheLawTog shares her most valuable legal advice for photographers, and how to keep a personal connection with your client in the cold world of contracts, copyright and liability protection. Introduction (2:18) Which time management strategies do you recommend? (3:03) Schedule your own and family activities first. - [How Shooting From Your Own Heart Evokes Emotion in Photography with Jyotsna Bhamidipati](https://themilkyway.ca/emotion-in-photography-with-jyotsna-bhamidipati/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Jyo creates breathtaking art by infusing so much of herself into her work. Today she shares how embracing your own truths allows you to capture connection and emotion in photography. Introduction (2:30) What do you look for when shooting to create mood? (3:26) Light is always the number one - [Show The Love: Capturing Connection in Intimate Couples Sessions with Ang McCabe](https://themilkyway.ca/capturing-connection-in-intimate-couples-sessions-with-ang-mccabe/) - What is your go-to prompt that encourages emotional connection? (22:13) I tell them to hug the crap out of each other. Even if the shot is imperfect, it will be so easy capturing connection because both you and the client will know the moment was totally natural. Where do you draw inspiration from? (25:42) My - [Rock Your Family Sessions: Inspiring Advice from Some of the World's Best Family Photographers](https://themilkyway.ca/advice-from-some-of-the-worlds-best-family-photographers/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher In this roundup episode, I select my favourite advice from some of the best family photographers I’ve had on the show. We touch on your photographer mindset, finding your style, the client experience, location scouting, working with kids, and much more! Stormy Solis (1:51) As one of the best - [How to Show Up Authentically - Social Media Strategies for Photographers with Elena Ringeisen](https://themilkyway.ca/how-social-media-strategies-for-photographers-with-elena-ringeisen/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Elena is the driving force behind Modern Market, and today she shares social media strategies that photographers can use to keep their feeds consistent and authentic without losing their minds! Introduction (3:54) Share a little about your new Curated Captions project (5:16) It’s a struggle for photographers to share - [The World Needs Your Lens: How to Stay Motivated and Inspired in Your Photography with Kelly Goggin](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-stay-motivated-and-inspired-in-your-photography/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Family photographer Kelly Goggin tackles the tough parts of being a photographer in this inspiring interview filled with many laughs, but also deep moments of examining self doubt, burnout, and how to stay motivated through the ebbs and flow of the creative process. Introduction (4:26) How did you find - [It's a Zoo! Photographing Kids and Pets in Fun, Whimsical Portraits with Andrea Martin](https://themilkyway.ca/photographing-kids-and-pets-with-andrea-martin/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Andrea Martin is known for photographing kids and pets together in gorgeous, intimate, and whimsical portraits. Today she reveals how she sources animals, creates portraits safely, and also how she supports community over competition. Introduction (4:30) How did you get started photographing with kids and pets? (5:02) I was - [The Art of Photography – Capturing Life in an Artistic Way with Sarah Gupta](https://themilkyway.ca/the-art-of-photography-with-sarah-gupta/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Sarah Gupta approaches the art of photography with the wisdom of the painters who inspires her, and creates fine art photography pieces that uses simplicity, colour, light and depth to evoke strong emotions from viewers. Come and take a glimpse into her artistic process. Introduction (5:02) Setting boundaries in - [The Painterly Effect – The Creative Process of Fine Art Photography with Emily Williams](https://themilkyway.ca/the-painterly-effect-the-creative-process-of-fine-art-photography/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Emily Williams is known for creating a painterly effect in her photos, making her a sought-after fine art family photographer. She talk to us today about inspiration, style and creativity. Introduction (3:58) How has studying art impacted you as an artist? (5:03) In art lessons, we learned about light, - [Milky Way TV #42: Baby in Hands Poses](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-42-newborn-posing-tips/) - In today's episode, come along with me in studio where I'll walk you through 3 simple poses that parents love. Enjoy! - [Knowing Your Numbers - Bookkeeping for Photographers with Tanya Hirschy](https://themilkyway.ca/knowing-your-numbers-bookkeeping-for-photographers/) - SUBSCRIBE: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher Knowing your numbers is an essential part of running a successful photography business. Today, I chat with Tanya about challenges, tips and overcoming fears when it comes to bookkeeping for photographers. Introduction (1:52) What are the common business mindset pitfalls for photographers? (2:46) Procrastination. Bookkeeping for photographers is all - [Macro Newborn Photos - Lashes](https://themilkyway.ca/macro-newborn-photos-lashes/) - One of the reasons parents love macro newborn photos so much is because it captures the tiniest details that they may not even notice every day, like those wispy little lashes. You can fill up a good chunk of your gallery simply by varying your angles when you're photographing baby's lashes. Every angle will produce - [Behind the Scenes - Bed in studio!](https://themilkyway.ca/behindscenes_bed/) - One of our most popular posts was the 'a bed is not always a bed' - where we show you a simple way to add a bed to your studio set up using a duvet, some pillows - and in this case, a backdrop that looks like a headboard! Here's another 'behind the scenes' that - [Newborn Wrapping Tutorial](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-wrapping-tutorial/) - Come behind the scenes with me to learn how to do a simple wrap for Newborn Photography with variations that will wow your clients! It's classic, easy-to-do, and parents love the result! And don't forget to download our FREE Getting Started with Newborn Photography guide here. And if you're ready to master all the newborn - [Let's deconstruct a holiday mini-session!](https://themilkyway.ca/lets-deconstruct-a-holiday-mini-session/) - Hey photographers! Are you shopping for Christmas decorations in August? Buying everything green and red in store? Sounds like you are getting ready for a holiday mini-session (or 60!). My Holiday minis have become one of my favourite photography sessions of the year, and certainly the one that sells out the fastest. As my email - [Fun Ideas for Holiday Sessions](https://themilkyway.ca/fun-ideas-for-holiday-sessions/) - I wanted to share a few ideas I've used in my Holiday Sessions that you might want to try in your studio! You know how there are lots of little overlays you can place on your images in Photoshop? Well...that's NOT what I used in this image! (well..not entirely) I picked up a glassless decorative - [Giving Back](https://themilkyway.ca/giving-back/) - Share the gift of education! When we first read about the story of TOMS, we realized we needed to find a way to work giving into our business model. TOMS 'One for One™'campaign (where they donate a pair a shoes for every pair purchased) really captured our imagination...but how to make it work for us? - [Dreaming of Christmas](https://themilkyway.ca/dreaming-of-christmas/) - Ready to get into the holiday spirit? If the answer is yes, then you are in the right place! Holiday mini-sessions are a great way to introduce prospective new clients to your business, and to strengthen the connections you have with existing clients to make them come back to you year after year. Many photographers - [Quotes for Family Sessions](https://themilkyway.ca/quotes-family-sessions/) - Hello lovely!I don't know about you, but I love to include sweet and inspiring quotes sometimes when I post a client sneak peek or when I'm writing a blog post (or putting tother my studio newsletter!)But sometimes, I just don't have time to scroll through a bunch of ideas (because it's so easy to get - [Holiday Round Up - 2017](https://themilkyway.ca/holiday-round-2017/) - NEW! Holiday Mini-Session Masterclass!! Check it out here! It's the most wonderful time of the year! Well, I LOVE holiday sessions - and this year, I had 85 little ones in front of the camera in a 9 day span. Which fuels me creatively (but also makes December a GREAT month to relax and spend - [DIY Knit Wrap (no knitting involved!)](https://themilkyway.ca/diy-knit-wrap-no-knitting-involved/) - Make this great wrap in 5 minutes? Milky Way student, Karin Marie Photography shares her crafty and brilliant 'DIY knit wrap' with no knitting involved! If you make your own knit wrap, be sure to share a photo with us over on Facebook! (and check out Karin's lovely work, like this sweet little toes using - [COVID-19 Updates for Photographers](https://themilkyway.ca/covid-19-updates-for-photographers/) - As the world slowly starts to re-open (in phases), it is both exciting and totally confusing! What as photographers can we do? Unfortunately, there is no easy answer as every location is so different - and interpretations of the phases are...let's just say - less than clear! In this conversation with Stephanie Robin + Russ - [A bit of holly, jolly inspiration](https://themilkyway.ca/holiday-inspiration/) - NEW! Holiday Mini-Session Masterclass!! Check it out here! Last year, we put together a massive 'Holiday Round-up" of all the holiday props and backdrops I use in my holiday mini-sessions. It was a HIT! If you haven't had a chance to read that yet, you can find that post here. I wanted to share a - [It’s beginning to look at LOT like Christmas!!!](https://themilkyway.ca/looks_like_christmas/) - NEW! Holiday Mini-Session Masterclass!! Check it out here! We've been receiving some questions around my holiday mini-sessions and the vendors I used in my sets this year, so I thought I would share some tips and links to vendors I used all in one place for you! Feel free to pin these images (in fact, - [Creative Editing Tutorial](https://themilkyway.ca/creative-editing-tutorial/) - During times like these, I find that being creative boosts my spirit. After posting this edit of my son, I had a few requests for a how-to video. And so...here it is! Enjoy! (if you are short on time, and want to get right to the composite parts, skip straight to ~ 5:08, I'm doing - [Free Resources and Education for Photographers During COVID-19](https://themilkyway.ca/free-resources-during-covid/) - As photographers, being in quarantine can leave us feeling helpless, scared, and confused on what we could possibly be doing for our businesses during this time. I mean, we're photographers. We work DIRECTLY with people. And when we can't photograph our clients, we can't do our jobs. ...or can we? Yes, it's true that we - [A 'How-to' Guide for Your Newborn Clients During COVID-19](https://themilkyway.ca/a-how-to-guide-for-your-newborn-clients-during-covid-19/) - As newborn photographers, we understand how precious and fleeting these times are for our clients. And right now, we also know that it's our collective responsibility to #stayhome and help flatten the curve of this pandemic. Together, with the contribution from many photographers in our community, we've compiled a resource guide you can share with - [SMART Goals for Photographers - Business Planning that Works!](https://themilkyway.ca/smart-goals-for-photographers/) - Smart goals for photographers are actually S.M.A.R.T goals for photographers! That means that when you sit down to plan and set goals, you need to set goals that are: SpecificMeasurableAchievableRealistic, andTimely. The time to plan is NOW! Setting goals in your business means that you will have tangible objectives to strive for, and have something - [6 Hacks to Speed Up your Newborn Photography Workflow](https://themilkyway.ca/6-hacks-to-speed-up-your-newborn-photography-workflow/) - Trust me, nobody chooses to have a newborn photography workflow that is 4 hours long! But because there are so many variables when newborns are involved, it could totally happen. In this video, I offer 6 ways that you can set yourself up to have the fastest possible workflow in your newborn photography business. You - [Creating a Newborn Session Workflow that works for you](https://themilkyway.ca/creating-a-newborn-session-workflow-that-works-for-you/) - When you're just getting started with newborn photography, you may not have any idea on which poses to choose for your newborn session workflow. Let's break down some easy tips which will greatly aid you in your first few newborn sessions. The biggest takeaway is to start simple, with easy poses that you can master, - [Newborn Photography Safety: The Importance of a Camera Strap](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-photography-safety-the-importance-of-a-camera-strap/) - Why does a camera strap get its own video in our newborn photography safety series? Because it is that an important topic in photography. Whether you are a newborn photographer, or family photographer - wearing your camera strap when doing overhead shots is a habit you should learn to incorporate every single time. You wouldn't - [Newborn Safety during Sessions | Check Circulation](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-safety-during-sessions-check-circulation/) - We continue our series on newborn safety with this video in which I address the phenomenon of purple fingers (or other extremities) that you may see in your newborn photography sessions, especially when posing in a prop. Prefer to read about newborn safety? Purple fingers is something very common that happens during newborn sessions, but - [Ensure safe newborn sessions by working with a spotter](https://themilkyway.ca/ensure-safe-newborn-sessions-by-working-with-a-spotter/) - Conducting safe newborn sessions is not a negotiable - it is essential to the well-being of the baby and for the legal protection of your own business. In the video below I share with you the reasons for having a newborn safety spotter and why it's so important. Prefer to read about safe newborn sessions - [Newborn Photography Conferences - The 2020 List](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-photography-conferences-the-2020-list/) - Education is the foundation of the newborn photography industry, and we are lucky enough to have several newborn photography conferences to choose from every year. We've rounded up some options for you to explore in 2020! Multiple Countries Baby and Kid CongressAn International Conference and Trade Show for Maternity, Newborn, Children and Family Professional Photographers, - [Safety Considerations when Choosing Newborn Props](https://themilkyway.ca/safety-considerations-when-choosing-newborn-props/) - Choosing newborn props is not just all about finding the cutest items for newborn poses. It is important to make sure they are safe to use in your newborn photography studio. Newborn safety is always … ALWAYS more important than getting a cute shot. We all want to be known as the safest photographer around - [Newborn Photography Safety Tips: Using Composites](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-photography-safety-tips-using-composites/) - Today I share one of the most important newborn photography safety tips in the industry: using composites for certain types of newborn poses. When you're getting started with newborn photography it is so easy to assume that every dramatic image you see is just like the way it was taken. However, that's not the case. - [Rainbow Baby newborn sessions to honour and inspire](https://themilkyway.ca/rainbow-baby-newborn-sessions-to-honour-and-inspire/) - A rainbow baby is a baby born after parents have previously experienced the loss of a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth, or other natural causes. A newborn photography session for a rainbow baby is usually filled with lots of emotion - it's a reminder of the sadness of the previous loss, an honouring of the memory - [11 Ideas to Stay Connected with your clients](https://themilkyway.ca/11-ideas-to-stay-connected-with-your-clients/) - The whole "stay connected with your clients" seems to be one of those things that starts with good intentions, but then falls to the wayside when things get "busy." I get it. It happens. But I also know how much impact taking the time to reach out can have on my business and relationships with - [My Favourite Photography Studio Management Software: IRIS WORKS](https://themilkyway.ca/photography-studio-management-software/) - My favorite photography studio management software is without a doubt Iris Works - click here for your free trial and see if you agree with me! Be sure to subscribe to our channel for more photography business tips! - [6 Tips for Choosing Newborn Wraps](https://themilkyway.ca/6-tips-for-choosing-newborn-wraps/) - There are so many options when you're choosing newborn wraps! And just as many questions come up: Which colour do I choose? How big must the wrap be? Which fabric do I choose? There are 6 things you should look for when choosing wraps to use in your newborn photography studio. ColourSizeStretchTextureSafetyPatterns The best part - [Newborn Photography Tips for Creamy Dreamy Newborn Skin](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-photography-tips-for-newborn-skin/) - We unpack 6 newborn photography tips to get you on the way to achieving that creamy dreamy newborn skin in photos. Many people may think that beautiful newborn skin is only achieved through editing, but that's actually just a small part of it. Good newborn photography starts with what you create in camera, and I go - [Simple newborn wrap that EVERYONE can do!](https://themilkyway.ca/simple-newborn-wrap/) - Every newborn photographer needs a simple newborn wrap that they can confidently do on their little clients, and the newborn wrapping technique I show in this video is an easy one to learn and remember. You can use a jersey wrap or cheesecloth or any other stretchy material, and it needs to be about 60 - [How to blur the background in newborn photos](https://themilkyway.ca/blur-background-newborn-photos/) - "How to blur the background" is one of the most frequently asked questions from our students, so we've decided it would be fitting topic for the first installment in our "Ask Lisa" series. Getting that yummy, creamy bokeh in your newborn photos can help elevate your work in the studio, and making sure you get - [Newborn Props | How to prep a bucket](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-props-prep-bucket/) - Using newborn props is a sweet way of posing newborns for images that parents will love. But it is also one of the more tricky parts of newborn posing to master. Preparing the bucket or bowl correctly is key to ensuring the baby is safe and comfortable, and to ensure your images reflect that. In - [Newborn Backdrop Stand | Easy DIY using PVC pipes](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-backdrop-stand/) - Making a newborn backdrop stand is as easy as fitting a few PVC pipes and connectors together! Starting out in newborn photography doesn’t have to be expensive with this easy DIY to build your own frame for your newborn bean bag poser. You can find all the supplies at your local big box hardware store. - [Newborn Photography Props | 6 Tips for Choosing Blankets](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-photography-props-6-tips-choosing-blankets/) - Newborn photography props come in many shapes and sizes, and it can be confusing choosing the ones most appropriate for your studio, especially when you are just starting out or when you’re on a strict budget. Blankets to use on your beanbag is a staple for any newborn studio, so I’m walking you through how - [Edit Newborn Photos - No Actions Required!](https://themilkyway.ca/edit-newborn-photos-no-actions-required/) - To edit newborn photos can be daunting! Most newborns don't have creamy, smooth skin when they are photographed, and so it is important that all photographers learn how to edit jaundice, redness, acne, flaky skin and anything else baby can throw at you! The key is to edit newborn skin in a way that still - [Family Photo Shoots | Tips for challenging sessions from Twig & Olive](https://themilkyway.ca/challenging-family-photo-shoots-tips/) - Family photo shoots elicit ideas of beautifully dressed families running through grassy fields at sunset, hand-in-hand and laughing in absolute family bliss. The reality is much more sobering. Golden-hour photography sessions can prove to be very challenging when you factor in that it’s after most toddler’s bedtimes. When added to the stress for parents to - [Newborn Wrapping | The Stork Wrap image that parents buy EVERY time](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-wrapping-stork-wrap/) - Newborn wrapping can be daunting, especially if you are in the middle of your newborn photography session and your little client doesn't like traditional tight wraps. This stork wrap is a smart way to create a wrapped baby look, without actually wrapping the baby! A simple knot one foot into a cheesecloth wrap creates a - [Photo Composites for Magical AND Safe Newborn Photos](https://themilkyway.ca/photo-composites-for-magical-and-safe-newborn-photos/) - Photo composites can be scary if you’re just starting out with Photoshop, but if you want to ensure the safety of your newborn clients, it is a skill you will have to learn. In this photo editing tutorial, I show you an easy method of creating a composite final image to produce a piece of - [Newborn Photography Tips to Ensure Safe Sessions](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-photography-tips-ensure-safe-sessions/) - Newborn safety is the most important consideration if you ever want to be a newborn photographer, and we can all use some newborn photography tips to ensure our smallest clients are safe and happy while in our care. In today's video I discuss my 6 essential tips to ensure a safe newborn photography session, including - [How to be more productive | 8 Time Hacks EVERYONE can use!](https://themilkyway.ca/how-to-be-more-productive/) - How to be more productive and save time is a struggle any busy entrepreneur (and parent!) can identify with on a daily basis. I share some of my proven ways of getting organized and being more productive and intentional with your time so that you can get work done! These time hacks have saved me - [Photographer Interview | Russ Jackson reveals his MAGIC phrase that make moms tear up!](https://themilkyway.ca/photographer-interview-russ-jackson/) - The photographer interview series continues with an interview with esteemed London newborn photographer, Russ Jackson of Russ Jackson Photography. Russ shares how he got started in photography and how his journey took many turns to finally land up in the world of newborn photography. He shares some secrets on getting young siblings to cooperate, so - [Black Background Photography | Post-shoot editing for NEWBORN sessions](https://themilkyway.ca/black-background-photography-post-shoot-editing/) - Black background photography is a great technique to pose a newborn, as it allows the baby to be the star of the image. But editing black backgrounds can be a challenge when you have to ensure that it looks like a true black background and not just a version of gray. Join me in Photoshop - [Newborn Studio Set-Up for Beginners](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-studio-setup-beginners/) - Getting started with newborn photography & what to buy to set up your studio can be overwhelming! Come and see my simple studio set up to get you on your way to creating beautiful art! Enjoy! [thrive_leads id='14673'] - [What is in my camera bag?](https://themilkyway.ca/whatisinmycamerabag/) - "What's your favourite lens?" I have a couple - and there's certain times I enjoying pulling out one over the other. In this video, I'll share what's in my camera bag at the moment -and the pros of each lens choice! - [Behind the Scenes - Parent Posing](https://themilkyway.ca/behind-the-scenes-parent-posing/) - In this video, I take you behind the scenes on the popular "shelf pose" that I commonly use with dads in my newborn session. It's a great pose that allows you to take various angles (and crops) so you can get several images for your gallery. And, it's easy to add in mom (and sibling) - [Creating your Own Photoshop Action](https://themilkyway.ca/creating-photoshop-actions/) - Spend too much time editing? If so, you aren't alone! One of the things I realized early on was that I was doing the same things over and over with my newborn images. When I finally discovered how to make my OWN actions (including ones that would run actions I purchased), my workflow efficiency went - [Tips on Cropping Ratios](https://themilkyway.ca/tips-cropping-ratios/) - When I first got started, I really had no idea what the best crop ratio was to give my clients. Seeing as I offer digital files, I never know what size they may print - so, what is the best? 4x6, 5x7, 8x10...?? I'm not saying there is 'one' answer, but here's what I do - [Milky Way TV: Interview with Glow Portraits](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-interview-glow-portraits/) - Today we're chatting with Alli Peck from Glow Portraits.(Alli was one of our instructors in the {online} Newborn Retreat)You'll want to listen in around 1:56 to hear how Alli handles sessions when toddlers have a total meltdown...you'll enjoy her good humor and her practical tips!And a little taste of Alli's work... - [Milky Way TV #60: Interview with Bianca Hubble](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-60-interview-bianca-hubble/) - Today we're chatting with Bianca Hubble from Bianca Hubble Photography.(Bianca was one of our instructors for the {online} Newborn Retreat)You'll want to listen in around 6:12 to hear how Bianca creates work-life balance and what she does in her downtime. And a little taste of Bianca's work... - [Milky Way TV #60: Interview with Russ Jackson Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-60-interview-with-russ-jackson/) - Today we're going half way around the world to chat with the talented Russ Jackson of Russ Jackson Photography(Russ was one of our instructors for the {online} Newborn Retreat)Pay attention at 10:52 for some great advice when working with young siblings (and a whole lot more!)And a little taste of Russ's work... - [How Canned Responses Can Shave Hours Off Admin Time](https://themilkyway.ca/how-canned-responses-can-shave-hours-off-admin-time/) - by Mel MacManimanTHE PROBLEMHow many hours each week do you spend writing and responding to emails? Are you typing out each individual message, or did you know there was an easier way? When I started booking clients regularly I realized that I was spending a substantial amount of time writing out the same email, but - [Milky Way TV #59: Interview with Elise Gow Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-59-interview-with-elise-gow-photography/) - Today we're going half way around the world to chat with the talented Elise Gow from Elise Gow Photography(Elise was one of our instructors for the {online} Family Retreat)And a little taste of Elise's work... - [Milky Way TV #58: Interview with But Natural Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-58-interview-with-but-natural-photography/) - Today I get to dive in to the importance of personal work, how to avoid getting caught up with overcomplicating things and so much more with the lovely Sujata from But Natural Photography.(Sujata was one of our instructors for the {online} Family Retreat)Hope this inspires you to pick up your camera just for you!Love the - [Milky Way TV #57: Interview with Doug from Twig + Olive Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-57-interview-with-twig-olive-photography/) - I have to say, Doug from Twig + Olive Photography (who was one of our instructors for the Family Retreat ) always has such great truth bombs to share!If you've ever wondered how to get parents to get on board with evening sessions that go beyond bedtime, or how to handle the dynamic when a - [Milky Way TV #56: Interview with Heidi Hope Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-56-interview-with-heidi-hope-photography/) - I'm excited to bring the incredibly kind + talented Heidi Hope of Heidi Hope Photography, founder of Photographer Rising, and instructor in our Newborn Retreat and Family Retreat. - [Milky Way TV #55: Interview with Molly Marie of Boudie Shorts](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-55-interview-with-molly-marie/) - Today we're switching up genres with the talented Molly Marie of Boudie Shorts - [Milky Way TV #54: Interview with Sally Kate Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-54-interview-with-sally-kate-photography/) - It is always a treat to chat with the lovely Sally Kate of Sally Kate Photography - a master of child photography. Right off the bat, she shares some great tips on how to connect quickly with kids. And a little eye candy of her beautiful work... - [Milky Way TV #53: Interview with Jackie Jean Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-53-interview-jackie-jean-photography/) - I confess - I was fan-girling a little when doing this interview.But, if you've followed Jackie Acosta of Jackie Jean Photography for awhile, you'll understand why! The work she creates is incredible!Here's some of her incredible art... - [Milky Way TV #52: Antique Store Shopping](https://themilkyway.ca/antique-store-shopping/) - Come along for a little antique shopping with me! I'll show you the things I'm looking for when shopping. - [Milky Way TV #51: Interview with Chris Scott of Swift Galleries](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-51-interview-chris-scott-swift-galleries/) - Today we're chatting with Chris Scott of Swift Galleries. If you find you've been stalling on something in your business, please listen in at 7:40 for a brilliant mantra that Chris lives by (and I try to!) - [Milky Way TV #50: The Unused Lens Experiment](https://themilkyway.ca/unused-lens-experiment/) - I was so inspired watching the other teachers in the Newborn and Maternity Retreat, I had to dig out a dusty lens and push myself out of my comfort zone. - [Milky Way TV #49: Interview with Erin Elizabeth](https://themilkyway.ca/interivew-with-erin-elizabeth-beach-shoots/) - I was so excited to hop on another call with the talented and funny Erin Hoskins from Erin Elizabeth Photography (who was one of our Retreat instructors for the Newborn Retreat)If you've ever had to deal with clients who tend to run late for your sessions (especially ones that depend on the light!), listen in - [DIY Vintage Frame Wall](https://themilkyway.ca/diy-vintage-frame-wall/) - Inspired by the amazing and talented Sue Bryce, I went off in search of old frames to make my very own Frame Wall.I did a few FB live posts on it, but wanted to compile those together here for one easy place to find the info!If it inspires you to make your own, I would - [Milky Way TV #47: Interview with Jenna Kutcher](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-47-interview-with-jenna-kutcher/) - In this episode of Milky Way TV, I'm delighted to share the wisdom and humour of Jenna Kutcher of Jenna Kutcher Photography and creator of The PhotoLab (a marketing course for photographers)Enjoy! - [Milky Way TV #46: Interview with Lil’ Buttons Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-46-interview-lil-buttons-photography/) - In this episode of Milky Way TV, the talented Jessica Rogers of Lil' Buttons Photography (who was one of our instructors in the Newborn Retreat).Enjoy! - [Milky Way TV #45: Interview with Amy Cope Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-45-interview-amy-cope-photography/) - Today I'm chatting with lovely Amy Cope of Amy Cope Photography from Auckland, New Zealand (Amy was one of our instructors in the Newborn Retreat).Listen in!And here's a little sample of her lovely images! - [Milky Way TV #44: Interview with Cleare Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-44-interview-cleare-photography/) - Today I'm chatting with the hilarious (and very talented!) Aoife Millea of Cleare Photography (who was one of our instructors for the Newborn Retreat).If you've been thinking about creating your own library of composite background images, listen in closely ~ 12:40 for some great tips to remember when you go to shoot those images!Enjoy!And here's - [Milky Way TV #43: Interview with Erin Tole](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-43-interview-erin-tole/) - Today I'm chatting with the very talented and funny Erin Tole of Erin Tole Photography (who was one of our instructors for the Newborn Retreat)Our connection got a little 'echo-y' - so I apologize for that!!And here's a little preview of her work. - [Milky Way TV #41: Interview with Bethney Backhaus](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-41-interview-bethney-backhaus/) - Today I'm chatting with the talented and lovely Bethney Backhaus of Bethney Backhaus Photography (who was one of our instructors for the Newborn Retreat)Enjoy! - [Milky Way TV #40: Interview with Kristen Cook](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-40-interview-kristen-cook/) - Today I'm chatting with the incredible Kristen Cook of Kristen Cook Photography (who was one of our instructors for the Newborn Retreat!)Kristen has a gift for helping you look deep inside, to really listen, and to stay true to your vision in a world where we are bombarded by "shoulds."Enjoy! - [Milky Way TV #39: Interview with Rachel Vanoven](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-39-interview-rachel-vanoven/) - Today I'm chatting with the lovely Rachel Vanoven of Rachel Vanoven Photography (Rachel was one of our instructors for the Newborn Retreat)In today's interview, we dive into her tips on working with an assistant - and how it not only creates for a safe experience for your clients, but a shorter session time for you! - [Milky Way TV #38: Interview with Shannon Morton](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-3-interview-shannon-morton/) - Today I'm chatting with the fabulous Shannon Morton of Shannon Morton Photography (Shannon was one of our instructors for the Newborn Retreat)Not only do we chat a bit about getting and keeping your clients to gush about your work, we also get a little peek into her studio!Enjoy! - [Milky Way TV #36: Interview with Amy McDaniel](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-6-interview-amy-mcdaniel/) - Today I'm chatting with Amy McDaniel of Dewdrops Photography by Amy McDaniel (Amy was one of our instructors for the Newborn Retreat).Enjoy! - [Milky Way TV #35: Interview with Tiffany Burke](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-35-interview-tiffany-burke/) - Today I'm chatting with Tiffany Burke of Tiffany Burke Photography (Tiffany was one of our instructors for the Newborn Retreat) If you find yourself constantly overbooking yourself, listen in carefully at minute 4:10. Enjoy! - [Milky Way TV #34: Interview with Keri Meyers](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-34-interview-with-keri-meyers/) - Today I'm excited to share an interview with Keri Meyers from Keri Meyers Photography (Keri was one of our instructors for the Newborn Retreat)Her tip on how she helps balance work + family seems like a simple thing to do, but I challenge you to actually make that happen in your life!Enjoy! - [Milky Way TV #33: Interview with Glow Portraits](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-33-interview-with-glow-portraits/) - Today I'm excited to share an interview with Alli Peck from Glow Portraits™ (Alli was one of our instructors for the Newborn Retreat)Listen in as she shares tips on working siblings in your newborn sessionsEnjoy! - [Milky Way TV #32: Interview with But Natural Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-32-interview-with-but-natural-photography/) - Today I'm excited to share an interview with Sujata from But Natural Photography (Sujata was one of our instructors for the Family Retreat).Not only do Sujata's images evoke emotion and bring you in to a story, her amazing use of beautiful narratives brings you even deeper in.Listen in as she offers some tips on telling - [Milky Way TV #31: 5 location challenge](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-31-5-location-challenge/) - As we head into the busy 'pre-holiday' family season, it's a good idea to find ways to avoid burn out! I don't know about you, but I tend to slip into using the same locations (because it's easy!) - but it's also when I find myself losing inspiration.If you find yourself in a similar position - [Milky Way TV #30: Interview with Reina Procee](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-30-interview-with-reina-procee/) - Today we're chatting with the talented Reina Procee of Reina Procee Photography, Simply Actions, The Delicate Workflow (which I love!) and she was one of our instructors in the Family Retreat.Reina's unique and beautiful style of Mama Love sessions captures the raw emotion of motherhood. Listen in as we dive into more detail about what - [Milky Way TV #29: Interview with Ashleigh Wells](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-2-interview-ashleigh-wells/) - Today I'm chatting with Ashleigh Wells from Sit Stay Studio - who was one of our instructors in the Family RetreatWe're talking about incorporating the furry family members into your sessions (and other great stuff!).Enjoy!And some of Ashleigh's beautiful work! SaveSaveSaveSave - [Milky Way TV #28: Interview with Ana Brandt](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-28-interview-ana-brandt/) - Today I'm chatting with the Ana Brandt from Anamaria Brandt Photography - who was one of our instructors in the Family RetreatWe're talking about children sessions (and lots more!). Love the analogy she makes at the 7:23 mark for how she views her sessions!Enjoy!SaveSaveSaveSave - [Milky Way TV #27: Interview with Stephanie Robin](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-27-interview-stephanie-robin/) - Today I'm chatting with the lovely Stephanie from Stephanie Robin Photography - who was one of our instructors for the Family Retreat We're talking about mama + me sessions (and a whole lot more!). Pay close attention at the 11:41 mark on a great tip to keep in mind if you have a hard time - [Milky Way TV #26: Interview with Twig + Olive Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-25-interview-twig-and-olive-photography/) - Today I'm chatting with Doug from Twig + Olive Photography - who was one of our instructors for the Family RetreatSo much great info shared in here - so close your other tabs and listen in!Watch for the 5:48 mark where he shares what turned his sessions around (from when he hated family sessions to - [Milky Way TV #25: Interview with Rachel Vanoven Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-25-interview-rachel-vanoven/) - So...a before we get to today's guest on Milky Way TV - I want to ask you a question.Do you that there's only a 'set' amount of 'success' to go around?When a local photographer in your town comes up with a brilliant marketing strategy are you motivated by it (or crushed by it?)I believe there - [Milky Way TV #24: Interview with Erin Elizabeth Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-24-interview-erin-elizabeth-photography/) - I am so thrilled to share this interview with the talented Erin Hoskins of Erin Elizabeth Photography.Erin has been an instructor with us for the Newborn Retreat, the Maternity Retreat and the Family Retreat!She shares so many great tips shared about 1 year and family sessions! Pay close attention at the 9:43 mark for a - [Milky Way TV #23: Interview with Dewdrops Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-23-interview-dewdrops-photography/) - If you offer sitter sessions (or are considering it!) don't miss this interview with the lovely Amy McDaniel from Dewdrops Photography (who was an instructor for our Family Retreat!)And here's a little visual eye candy of some of Amy's beautiful work! SaveSaveSaveSaveSave - [Milky Way TV #22: Newborn Cloud](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-22-newborn-cloud-review/) - I don't often give product reviews or testimonials as part of the Milky Way TV series, but these were just TOOOO helpful to me and my posing workflow for me to not share!!Before discovering these little 'beans,' I was perfectly happy using rolled up towels and receiving blankets for years (6 years in fact!), and - [Milky Way TV #21: high noon challenge](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-21/) - I love my golden hour sessions - but, sometimes you have a client who needs that dreaded 'noon-time' session. What to do? In this week's episode, join me on a #highnoonchallenge! Key things to remember: #1. Shade is your friend! But look for open shade (ie: your client is in shade, but they are looking - [Milky Way TV #20: Interview with Julie McGann](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-20-interview-julie-mcgann/) - This week's Milky Way TV episode is with Julie of Julie McGann Fine Art Portraits, photographer, teacher and...soon to be published children's book author? Julie's portraits are often built in collaboration with her little clients who describe a scene or scenario that she then brings to life. How fun would this be in your child's room?!SaveSave - [Milky Way TV #19: Interview with Dana Pugh](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-19-interview-dana-pugh/) - Today I'm excited to share an interview with Dana from Dana Pugh Photography.If you ever find yourself scared to try new thing, pay close attention to the 5 minute mark!Save - [Milky Way TV #18: Interview with Katrina Parry](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-18-interview-katrina-parry/) - This week, I'm delighted to share this interview with Katrina Parry of Katrina Parry Photography.Katrina is known for her touching story-telling images where you feel like you caught a glimpse into a beautiful world.Enjoy!Here's a little sample of her work.Want to learn more with Katrina?She also editing + mentoring available in her online shop. - [Milky Way TV #17: Helicopter Parents](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-17/) - Ah...helicopter parents. We all get them in our studio. So what to do? That's exactly what this episode of Milky Way TV is all about! Have another strategy that works for you? Would love to hear about it! Save - [Milky Way TV #16: Interview with The Blissful Maven](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-16-interview-blissful-maven/) - Emotive. Passionate. Raw.Those are some of the ways I've heard the work of today's guest described.Meet Candice Zugich of the Blissful Maven.Watch, enjoy and be inspired!SaveSaveSave - [Milky Way TV #15: Interview with Heidi Hope Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-15-interview-heidi-hope-photography/) - Get ready to be inspired! Today's guest is Heidi Hope of Heidi Hope Photography + Photographer Rising (Heidi was one of our instructors for the Newborn Retreat) Save - [Milky Way TV #14 – 50 lbs of Clay](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-14-50-lbs-clay/) - What do 50 pounds of clay and getting the "perfect shot" have to do with one another? Nothing.And yet...everything.Well at least in the context I talk about in this week's Milky Way TV!If you have ever found yourself feeling creatively stuck, PLEASE watch this episode - you may be the very cause of your creativity block!SaveSave - [Milky Way TV #13 Interview with Shalonda Chaddock of Chubby Cheek Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/interview-shalonda-chaddock-chubby-cheek-photography/) - In today's episode, I had the pleasure of talking to Shalonda Chaddock of Chubby Cheek Photography.If you've ever found yourself thinking "not sure I would pay these prices" when setting your own, pay close attention to the part about 'best advice' given.And for a little eye candy, here's some of her lovely work! - [Milky Way TV #12 Embracing the Seasons of Creativity](https://themilkyway.ca/mw-tv-12-embracing-seasons-creativity/) - It's ok if you aren't creatively inspired every minute of the day (or every day of the month!)Here's a few things I focus on when I'm in a slow season of the creative cycle! - [MilkyWay TV #11: Trolls in your garden?](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-11-trolls-in-your-garden/) - Internet trolls. At one time or another, it's going to happen. Here's my thoughts about it! :) Miss our recent lighting webinar? Click here to sign up to get the replay! - [Milky Way TV #10: In a creative rut?](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-11-creative-rut/) - Feeling a little 'meh' about your sessions? Sometimes it could be that you are just feeling a little creatively tapped. It happens to all of us! Here's a few things I like to do when I'm feeling a little creatively stuck. [thrive_2step id='8714']Click here for a "Get out of the Rut' worksheet'[/thrive_2step] - [Milky Way TV #9: Behind the scenes setting up for a newborn session](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-9-behind-scenes-setting-newborn-session/) - I wanted to shoot a quick clip before my little client arrived to show you the different type of set ups I have ready to go before the session starts. It's important to communicate with your client before you session about the types of colours they like, the style they enjoy, etc. And remember, you - [Milky Way TV #8: DIY Tulle Skirt + Lace Dress](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-8-diy-tulle-skirt-lace-dress/) - Today we're getting crafty on Milky Way TV!I'm sure you've seen some (ok - a LOT!) of my maternity images using a tulle skirt with lace 'top.' Mamas love this outfit and it works beautifully in studio or outside (I may, or may not, have it in 6 different colours)It's fairly simple to make - - [Milky Way TV #7 : Interview with Eden Bao](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-7-interview-eden-bao/) - Today we're chatting with Eden Bao of Eden Bao Photography, who was one of our instructors for the {online} Maternity Retreat - [Milky Way TV #6: Interview with Alli Peck, Glow Portraits](https://themilkyway.ca/tv-6-interview-alli-peck-glow-portraits/) - Today we're chatting with Alli Peck of Glow Portraits, who was one of our instructors for the {online} Maternity Retreat - [Milky Way TV: 4 - Studio Rules (I just have 2!)](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-waytv-4-studio-rules/) - In this episode, I'm sharing a quick tip when it comes to ensuring your clients are snapping photos over your shoulder! (sometimes to the point really is the best option...but Rule #2 always diffuses the tension!) Check it out here! - [Milky Way TV: 3 – interview with Tiffany Burke](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-3-interview-tiffany-burke/) - Today we're chatting with Tiffany Burke of Tiffany Burke Photography, who was one of our instructors for the {online} Maternity Retreat and {online} Family Retreat!! Save - [Milky Way TV: 2 (Focus + Productivity)](https://themilkyway.ca/milky-way-tv-2-focus-productivity/) - Find yourself at the end of the day wondering where the time went? Yeah...I've been there too, and it's usually because I completely lost focus (if I ever had it to begin with!)Here's a few tips to make sure you get (the important) projects COMPLETED!Download the Focus + Productivity Worksheet here - [Milky Way TV: episode 1](https://themilkyway.ca/mwtv-1/) - It's here!!!!! We've been talking about it for years...and, we finally have realized there is no "right" time, you just have to go for it!Which brings us to our first episode for Milky Way TV: Feel the Fear Click to Download FREE worksheetHave a friend who might need to hear this message right now? Please - [Interview Series: Nicole Everson Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/interview-series-nicole-everson-photography/) - I'm excited to share our latest interview with Nicole Everson Photography - another one of our instructors for the {online} Newborn Retreat.Enjoy!A little baby eye-candy for you of some of Nicole's work. - [Interview series: Penguin Pictures](https://themilkyway.ca/interview-with-penguin-pictures/) - I'm so excited for this interview with Brigette from Penguin Pictures.I first met Brigette when she took Illuminate (and later Beyond the Beanbag) with The Milky Way.Her growth has been remarkable, and we were so excited to have her join us as a teacher in the Newborn Retreat!Enjoy! (here's a little peek of what she'll be - [Interview Series: Keri Meyers Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/interview-series-keri-meyers-photography/) - I'm so excited to share this interview with Keri Meyers Photography (one of my very first photography crushes!)We start off with the quick questions people tend to ask (camera, lenses, etc) - then we jump into talking about confidence, when to know when to charge and some of the best advice given.Enjoy!Keri was one of - […this is brilliant! (and you can use it in your biz too!)](https://themilkyway.ca/this-is-brilliant-use-in-your-business/) - This random video stumbled across my newsfeed yesterday. And within minutes, I was totally teary-eyed.I would love for you to watch it...for 2 reasons.#1. It's a great message (even if it IS an ad)#2. I think there's a great lesson shown here (to use in your business) How did you feel watching it?Personally - I got - [Need a ‘serious’ reality check?](https://themilkyway.ca/need-a-serious-reality-check/) - So, every now and then, it occurs to me that I've started to take myself way too seriously.Perhaps this has happened to you? Maybe it's happening right now?There's a saying, "Take your job seriously, but don't take yourself too seriously."And, I think that's a great saying(I guess in our case, it would be 'take your - [Ever feel like you are going backwards?](https://themilkyway.ca/ever-feel-like-you-are-going-backwards/) - This much I know - "The more I learn, the less I know." At least that is what it feels like. And I have to be honest. Some days it makes me want to curl up in a ball and cry. (In fact, I may or may not have done that recently). Has this ever - [It's not the gear...except sometimes it is!](https://themilkyway.ca/its-not-the-gear-except-sometimes-it-is/) - Does this sound familiar? "It's not the gear...it's the photographer using the gear." Ok. There's truth to this of course. BUT...when you are trying to achieve a certain look and feel, well, having the right gear can really help. When I first started doing outdoor sessions with my nifty fifty (Nikon 50mm 1.4), the shots - [3 things I wish I knew {getting started with birth photography}](https://themilkyway.ca/getting-started-with-birth-photography/) - Guest post by Lauren Guilford Photography - birth photographer When I first started photographing births, I truly had no idea what I was getting myself into. The industry was still so very new at that time and no matter how much I tried to research, there weren’t any resources to help guide me. So, like - [3 Benefits of In Person Photography Sales: guest post](https://themilkyway.ca/3-benefits-of-in-person-photography-sales-guest-post/) - 3 Benefits of In Person Photography Sales ~guest post by Aaron of Addah's Advice In Person Sales (or IPS) is the process of selling finished photo products instead of digital images. Many photographers consider this a new process, but it has been around for a long time. If you are old enough, you probably remember - [Do you believe in serendipity? {part 2 of 2}](https://themilkyway.ca/believe-serendipity-part-2-2/) - {if you missed part 1, go read that now...then come back here!} So, now you know our little tale of how we got started. And I hope you had a chance to watch the free training videos (because I believe they are taken down after Bschool starts!) Below, I want to share the key points - [When is "good enough" enough (as it relates to your prices)?](https://themilkyway.ca/good-enough-enough-relates-prices/) - Now, let me preface this by saying I think you should ALWAYS be improving your craft. Learning. Refining. Challenging yourself. However, what is "good enough" to start charging for your services? (or raising your prices?) Here's my take on it... If you can confidently book a client knowing you can consistently produce the same caliber - [Do you believe in serendipity? {part 1 of 2}](https://themilkyway.ca/believe-serendipity-part-1-2/) - "How did you start the Milky Way?"Ah…yes. This is a question that we get a lot.To be 100% honest, it wasn’t a ‘pre-formulated’ business idea.There was no business plan.And I never anticipated I would be helping other photographers in their journey.It was serendipitous.I dove into learning as much as I could about photography because I - […sorry, but it’s important](https://themilkyway.ca/sorry-but-its-important/) - We've heard from many of you that this is the year you really want to make the leap from part-time to full-time (or from hobby to part-time).That is fantastic. This post is for you (it's also for you if you are already full-time...or thinking about going pro anytime soon) - so um...it's rather a universal - [When is enough, enough?](https://themilkyway.ca/enough-enough/) - Ever have this happen to you?A potential client emails asking for your sessions details and then you never hear from them again.OR...A potential client contacts you, you exchange a few emails, it seems promising, and then you never hear from them again.Yes?Now, let me ask you this...how many times (and how many ways) did you - [Uh oh...are you wearing "busy as a badge?"](https://themilkyway.ca/uh-oh-wearing-busy-badge/) - A question for you today..."Do you wear busy as a badge?" I realized that lately, I am - again! And I need to stop. Does this conversation sound familiar? "Hi, how are you?!" "OMG… Soooooooo busy" "I know me too!! Soooo busy" What is it with our obsession with "busy?" Are we trying to prove - [Student Showcase: Shannon Lynn Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/showcase-shannon-lynn-photography-illuminate/) - "Illuminate (studio lighting ecourse) has helped me in ways I never thought possible! I have been in business for 3 years now with little improvement until I took Illuminate. Now my business is skyrocketing and I feel confident about what I am doing. Hands down the best money I have ever spent for my business!" ~Illuminate alumnus Shannon - [In case you haven't heard...(shocking, I know)](https://themilkyway.ca/case-havent-heard-shocking-know/) - Psst….here's a little 'secret' You aren't the photographer for everyone. I'm not the photographer for everyone. NO ONE is the photographer for EVERYONE. And that's ok. Ok? Seriously (so don't make a face like the little dude on the right!) I want you to take a quick minute to think about this. (even if you - [Alumni Interview: Jana Roller](https://themilkyway.ca/alumni-interview-jana-roller/) - We are so excited to introduce you to another one of our talented alumni, Jana Roller. Website: www.janarollerphotography.ca Find her on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/JanaRollerPhotography Where do you call home? Williams Lake Describe Your Style Simple and timeless. I love capturing the small details that tell a big story. I love the connection between people and - [DIY: Create Your Own Star Jar](https://themilkyway.ca/diy-create-star-jar/) - Create a little summer-time magic with your very own star jar! Supplies needed: Glass Jar Star stickers LED flameless tea lights Frosting spray (or coloured spray paint) Newspaper to cover painting surface Instructions: Wash jar with soap and water and thoroughly dry Place stickers on jar ensuring all edges are pressed down (if they are - [Alumni Interview: Amanda Buechler Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/alumni-interview-amanda-buechler-photography/) - We’re excited to introduce you to another one of our talented alumni, Amanda Buechler. Webiste: http://www.amandabuechler.comFind her on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/amandabuechlerphotographyWhere do you call home?Bothell, WADescribe Your StyleMy style is very natural & organic. I love cream, brown & gray and that's pretty much all I use! I'm addicted to texture <3What made you decide - [Alumni Interview: Farrah Welch Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/alumni-interview-farrah-welch-photography/) - We're excited to introduce you to another one of our talented alumni, Farrah Welch. Website: www.farrahwelchphotography.comFind her on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/farrahwelchphotography Where do you call home?Santa Clarita, CaliforniaDescribe Your Stylesoft, sweet, simple, contemporary What made you decide to become a photographer?Before getting into photography, professionally, I had 14 years of experience in digital arts, ranging from graphic - [Sometimes the only thing you can do is…](https://themilkyway.ca/sometimes_the_only_thing/) - So, yesterday Erin and I were attempting to have a meeting to discuss our summer filming schedule (some exciting new additions coming to our classes!!), along with working on changes for the brand new site (woohoo!) and discussing some book-keeping stuff (yeah...dry...but, it's got to be done...so consider this a reminder to get up to - [Would you be friends with…you?](https://themilkyway.ca/friends/) - A question...if you had a friend that spoke to you the way you speak to yourself, would they still be your friend?I hope the answer is yes.But I know for some of you the answer is going to be a big, resounding NO!It wasn't too long ago that a good part of my internal dialogue - [OMG…my office is infested with these!](https://themilkyway.ca/omg-office-infested/) - So...I'll come clean.And I have sooooo many of them EVERYWHERE in my office (seriously, it's infested).DOZENS of them in random notebooks.At least 20 folders on my computer.And countless ones on random scraps of paper.What am I talking about?It's what I like to refer to as "the big rat's nest of unused info"It's what happens when - [Alumni Interview: D.P. Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/alumni-interview-d-p-photography/) - We’re excited to introduce you to another one of our talented alumni, Deanna of D.P. Photography. Website: http://dpphotography.ca/Find her on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/D.Powell.PhotographyWhere do you call home?Toronto, ONDescribe Your Style-Simple-Classic-Clean-Try to keep things neutral so images don't look dated or too overly trendyWhat made you decide to become a photographer?Maybe cliche but after my 1st baby, - [Getting set up for enews](https://themilkyway.ca/getting-set-enews/) - Regardless of the option you pick, you'll need to take the following steps 1. Create a web form Decide what information you NEED. Remember, the more fields people need to fill out, the least likely they are to complete it. You can always gather more information (such as address, phone number, birthdates once they become - [Been stalling on enews? (let's get started!)](https://themilkyway.ca/stalling-enews-lets-get-started/) - As you know, Facebook is constantly changing, and recently, it has become harder and harder to reach your ‘fans.’ Let’s face it…it was a really nice free marketing platform for a couple years…but Facebook is a business, it’s their platform, and they can change if they want to. So…how DO you reach your clients on - [Alumni Interview: Brittany Santos Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/alumni-interview-brittany-santos-photography/) - We’re excited to introduce you to another one of our talented alumni, Brittany Santos.Website: www.brittanysantosphotography.comFind her on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/BrittanySantosphotographyWhere do you call home?Edmonton AlbertaDescribe Your StyleFeminine, playful and a little whimsical. I'm a run through the woods kind of photographer rather than urban jungle. I love all things natural and soft and draw my - [Transformations: Mel Taylor Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/transformations-mel-taylor-photography/) - Before and after by alumni, Mel Taylor Photography."Ok I always get a little scared about sharing my images at times. This image was taken almost 12 months ago. I decided to pull out some old images and have fun with them after taking your editing course. So far this is the only image I've edited since - [In business...(or just busy-ness?)](https://themilkyway.ca/business-just-busy-ness/) - Question: "Are you addicted to "being busy?" Does it feel like you are always working...and yet, not *really* moving forward on projects that truly benefit your business? First of all, we recommend you set up Rescue Time so you can start to get a clear picture of where your time goes (it's free!) You may - [Transformations: Just Too Cute Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/transformations-just-cute-photography/) - Before + after by alumni, Just Too Cute Photography - [Alumni Interview: Dewdrops Photography by Amy McDaniel](https://themilkyway.ca/dewdrops_photography/) - We are SO excited to introduce you to another one of our talented alumni AND special guest instructor for our upcoming limited edition Newborn Editing class!(Yes indeed....not one, but TWO instructors will take you into their 'editing lab' to show you their unique steps when editing newborn sessions!)Meet Amy McDaniel of Dewdrops PhotographyWebsite: Dewdrops Photography - [Alumni Interview: Shirley Cronkite](https://themilkyway.ca/alumni-interview-shirley-cronkite/) - We’re excited to introduce you to another one of our talented alumni, Shirley Cronkite:Website: Sweet Exposure PhotographyFind her on facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/Sweet.Exposure.PhotographyWhere do you call home?Ayr, Ontario CanadaDescribe Your StyleI've always had a hard time nailing down what kind of style I have....but....My style is a mix of modern meets tradition with a kiss of dreaminess and - [Student Showcase: Loni Bourne Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/ss_lonibournephotography/) - "Thank you again. I continue to see improvement in my work and in my lighting. I am so thankful for this course... for the consistancy it has given me and also for the confidence it has given me." ~Illuminate alumni Loni Bourne Photography To learn more about Illuminate, click here - [Alumni Interview: Leah M Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/alumni-interview-leah-m-photography/) - We're excited to introduce you to another one of our talented alumni, Leah M Photography.Website: www.leahmphotos.comFind her on facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/LeahMPhotosWhere do you call home?Pittsburg, KS / Fairland, OKDescribe Your StyleSimple and clean. I prefer studio lighting but IF I do shoot outdoors I am a big lover of back-lighting.What made you decide to become - [Alumni Interview: Michelle Regner Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/alumni-interview-michelle-regner-photography/) - "I've always loved photography but was honestly never very good at it."Well...that's what she said...."She" being our next alumni feature,the lovely Michelle from Michelle Regner Photography(who I had the pleasure of photographing for her maternity session!)Discover her definition of success(we have to agree with her on that one!)and the lens she loves most!(you can find - [Alumni Interviews: Jocelyn Gerspacher Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/alumni-interviews-jocelyn-gerspacher-photography/) - We're so excited to introduce you to another of our awesome students! (in case you missed our first interview with alumni Melissa Berg, this is a new series on the blog, where you have chance to learn about our alumni (who are all in various stages of the photography journey!)Today, we are thrilled to introduce - [Pinterest for your photo biz](https://themilkyway.ca/pinterest-for-your-photo-bizpart-1/) - Client inquiries, sessions, editing, editing, editing...post to facebook, blog, order images... (did we mention more editing?) Yes, we get it. Your life is busy. You don't exactly have 'spare time' to figure out yet ANOTHER social media strategy. Maybe you are thinking about getting started with Pinterest. Or, maybe you've been using Pinterest for awhile. - [DIY Crowns](https://themilkyway.ca/diy-crowns/) - Don't get me wrong...I love the crown creations you can buy out there! But sometimes, time is not on your side, your budget doesn't allow it, OR, you are just having a crafty kind of day!Lace crown tutorialWhat you'll need:Pieces of lace ( I got mine from a local fabric store) remember you really don’t - [Alumni Interviews: Melissa Berg Photography](https://themilkyway.ca/alumni-interviews-melissa-berg-photography/) - We are so excited to bring a new interview series - featuring our alumni!We look forward to introducing you to many of our awesome students (all in various stages of their journey!)And to kick it off, let us introduce you to Melissa Berg,of Melissa Berg Photography(stop by and say hello over on facebook here - - [Big girl panties and onion skin?](https://themilkyway.ca/big-girl-panties-and-onion-skin/) - I'm getting a bit personal today. But, I know sharing this might also help you...so, I'm putting on my big girl panties, and diving in! (more on big girl panties in a minute!) Today, we're talking about dealing with criticism, constructive feedback, or...well, just plain ol' rejection!As you know, we offer a money-back guarantee on - [Facebook – the only thing for certain…is change!](https://themilkyway.ca/facebook-the-only-thing-for-certain-is-change/) - If you haven't already heard, Facebook has changed their rules regarding timeline photos (again!)This time - it's good news for us business owners!According to the new rules (for now!), your timeline image can include...your studio website, phone number, address etcspecific calls to action (ie: like us! Share with your friends, arrows pointing to tabs/like buttons)special - [You are NOT your business...{you are so much more}.](https://themilkyway.ca/you-are-not-your-business-you-are-so-much-more/) - My dear...you are NOT your business. Ok...maybe part of you is. But not all of you. Here's the thing. I'm going to guess you are passionate about your business. And, that's ok. In fact, that's great! But, I'm also going to guess that some days, your feelings of self-worth are hinged DIRECTLY to your business - [Never work a day in your life?](https://themilkyway.ca/never-work-a-day-in-your-life/) - Ok. When you read this, what pops in your head? Are you thinking, "heck yes! I totally agree" Or,"Who ever said that is nuts!" Or maybe you are somewhere in the middle? Now, I'm GUESSING what we are supposed to take away from this quote is that we are all supposed to pursue our passions - [The one word you MUST learn to say...](https://themilkyway.ca/the-one-word-you-must-learn-to-say/) - It's hard to do. We get it. But the one word you MUST learn to say, is no. It is really important to be able to do. Why? You need to have time, space and energy for the things in life you REALLY want to do You need time to unwind You need time with - [just. can't. unplug. help!](https://themilkyway.ca/just-cant-unplug-help/) - Having trouble unplugging? You're not alone. A few weeks ago, we talked about setting aside time to 'unplug.' Yes...really and truly unplugging. No checking email. No peeking at facebook messages and updates. No browsing pinterest. To be completely 'unplugged.' Lots of you told us that it ended up being harder than you expected. So did - [Your Website Isn’t Booking Clients? Three Fast Fixes You Can Finish Today.](https://themilkyway.ca/website-not-booking-clients/) - We are excited to introduce guest writer Jenika McDavitt from Psychology for Photographers Quick: What is the purpose of your website? Ask a group of photographers that question, and you usually get a long-ish answer about showcasing their portfolio and introducing people to their style to get them excited about their brand. That’s great. But - [Photographer Interviews – Jillian Kirby](https://themilkyway.ca/photographer-interviews-jillian-kirby/) - We're excited to interview the inspirational newborn photographer, Jillian Kirby {be sure to check out the one-on-one mentoring opportunities and new 'baby vogue' workshop dates! details at the end of the interview}Describe Your StyleMy style is very organic… I hope it gives people a serene feeling when they look at it makes them think of - [So much more (safe) than meets the eye](https://themilkyway.ca/so-much-more-safe-than-meets-the-eye/) - When you see an image like this...please ASSUME it is a composite. There simply is NO OTHER way to get this type of image while keeping baby safe. Seriously. There just isn't!To get this shot, I combined 3 different images - when the baby was on the saddle, the dad's hands NEVER left the baby....not - [My Big Why...](https://themilkyway.ca/the-big-why/) - I recently celebrated my birthday and my gift to myself was a 30X40 canvas of my all time favorite image. This is image represents so much to me. This is my sweet child almost 3 years ago, on the very first day I got my first DSLR. When I took this picture I - [Let's put an end to this...](https://themilkyway.ca/lets-put-an-end-to-this/) - I was just about to go to bed, when I made the almighty mistake of doing one last peek at facebook. Why was that a mistake? Well...I could list of a hundred reasons (but that will be a post for another day). However - this random image popped up into my newsfeed. I've seen many - [A bit of vintage…for a bitty price](https://themilkyway.ca/a-bit-of-vintage-for-a-bitty-price/) - Now don't get me wrong, I LOVE prop shopping. In fact, it's possible one might label me addicted to prop shopping. However, every now and then it's fun to make your own unique creations...especially when they are as quick as these vintage-inspired headbands! A little stretchy lace, soaked in tea, small piece of felt, some - [Vendor Review: Devoted Knits.](https://themilkyway.ca/devoted-knits-vendor-review/) - We're excited to add a new section to our blog, called Vendor Reviews. We'll be sharing the things I use and LOVE in my studio! (Milk & Honey bonnet) I was first introduced to Trae of Devoted Knits gorgeous creations a few months ago. Since discovering all of our gorgeous goodies I have a - [5 Great Ways to Use Pinterest for Marketing](https://themilkyway.ca/pinterest-for-your-biz/) - We are excited to bring you a guest post from Amy Fraughton, owner of Photo Business Tools.By now, we have all not only heard of Pinterest, but I am sure you have an account, and have been building your own dream boards with amazing recipes, eye makeup tutorials and even marketing tips!But are you using - [It’s cool to be kind!](https://themilkyway.ca/its-cool-to-be-kind/) - We had a lovely question from a participant for our upcoming lighting e-course about whether or not local photographers were welcome to take the course. The question took us off guard...we hadn't really considered the notion of NOT opening the course to photographers in the area.The question gave us pause. Yes, we are showing some - [Photographer Interviews: Ashleigh Wells](https://themilkyway.ca/photographer-interviews-ashleigh-wells/) - We are excited to bring you another Photographer Interview! This week, please meet Ashleigh Wells, of Ashleigh Wells Photography. Describe your Style: I would say my style is simple and modern, but still classic. I try to emphasize clothing choices for my clients and choose settings for my photo sessions that will not “date” images - [What is he thinking?](https://themilkyway.ca/what-is-he-thinking/) - We had so much fun reading your responses from our last 'what was she thinking' post, we thought we would play along again!Leave your comment below! Have you signed up for our e-news yet? If not, what are you waiting for?Weekly inspiration, newborn posing tips, freebies & more - sign up now. - [What is she thinking?](https://themilkyway.ca/what-is-she-thinking/) - Write a caption for this photo below! - [Photographer - Interviews - Glow portraits](https://themilkyway.ca/photographer-interviews-glow-portraits/) - We are excited to bring you another post in our Photographer Interview series. I know when I was starting out, I really enjoyed learning about other photographers. Their style, their inspiration (their gear!)...in fact, I still do! So, without further ado, meet Alison Peck from Glow Portraits! Describe your Style: In all of the things - [L-O-A-D-I-N-G…(website check-in)](https://themilkyway.ca/l-o-a-d-i-n-g-website-check-in/) - In the final part of our 5-part ' Getting Down to Business' Guest series, we're going to talk about websites! If you missed the last post, Paid Yourself Lately, read it here.This is a big, loaded topic...WEBSITES.I’m guessing you have one. Or you are dreaming about getting one soon.These days, it’s pretty darn quick & - [Paid Yourself Lately?](https://themilkyway.ca/are-you-pricing-for-profit/) - We are moving along to part 4 of our 5 part ‘Getting Down to Business’ series by our guest blogger (and new 'team milky way member), Erin Brule. If you missed last week's "Sales is NOT a dirty word," you can read it here. Show me the money! When you read that, did you suddenly - [Sales Is NOT a Dirty Word - really!](https://themilkyway.ca/sales-is-not-a-dirty-word-really/) - We are excited to bring you part 3 of our 5 part ‘Getting Down to Business’ series by Erin Today, we're going to try to convince you that... A) 'Selling' not EVIL B) 'Selling' is in fact, a SERVICE. And I'm going to keep this short & sweet. But first, repeat after me, “Sales is - [Why...oh WHY am I doing this? You better know!](https://themilkyway.ca/why-oh-why-am-i-doing-this-you-better-know/) - We are excited to bring you part 2 of our 5 part 'Getting Down to Business' series by our guest blogger (update: and now-not-so-silent partner), Erin Brule. If you missed part one where we talk about the oh-so-titillating topics of policies and contracts, read it now. Today, we're going to tuck away our nerd, and - [Hide the Artist. Bring out the Nerd (just for a minute)](https://themilkyway.ca/hide-the-artist-bring-out-the-nerd-just-for-a-minute/) - GUEST POST: We're excited to introduce a new series to The Milky Way...'Getting Down to Business' by our guest blogger, Erin Brule. With a Commerce degree tucked into her camera bag, Erin naturally found herself drawn to the business side of things, and wanted to help other new photographers start their journey on the right - [Photographer Interviews - Milk & Honey](https://themilkyway.ca/photographer-interviews-milk-honey/) - INTERVIEW WITH LISA FROM MILK & HONEY PHOTOGRAPHY Describe your Style: Calm, peaceful, I love classic items, anything rustic or vintage, anything pretty. I love patiently waiting for newborn smiles! I LOVE Maternity & Newborn & Baby photography, because of my difficulty starting my own family. I love to celebrate the creation of a new - [Newborn Session pullback](https://themilkyway.ca/newborn-session-pullback/) - Thought I would snap a quick pullback before my session tomorrow :) I have the bean bag angled at about 65degrees from the window : ) - [Hello fans! Uh. Anyone there? (Tackling Timelines-4b)](https://themilkyway.ca/hello-fans-uh-anyone-there-tackling-timelines-4b/) - We continue on our mission of moving over to timeline, and chat about some overall facebook strategies. And if you are just joining us now, head back to the beginning of the series!In our last post, we talked about some strategies to drive people to your facebook page, as well as some ideas to entice people - [Tackling Timeline (step #4a): I just need more fans (?)](https://themilkyway.ca/tackling-timeline-step-4a-i-just-need-more-fans/) - Before we get into the 4th part of our facebook series, we just want to include this tip if you are running into problems with timeline images looking blurry in facebook.Before adding your own photos, open the template and follow these steps:1. In Photoshop, go to “image” > “image size”2. Change the measurements to “percent” - [I got the Music In me...](https://themilkyway.ca/i-got-the-music-in-me/) - We are just finishing up the 4th post on TACKLING TIMELINE But I thought I would post something today too :) MUSIC MUSIC MUSIC As artists we LOVE the impact that music can have when our work is shown. It helps capture feeling, a mood, or our art & style. However there are a - [Tackling Timeline (step #3) Pin with purpose!](https://themilkyway.ca/tackling-timeline-step-3-pin-with-purpose/) - In step one, we talked about updated your facebook timeline cover image.In step two, we went over how to customize & move around your tabs. In step three, we're going to talk about the importance of your news feed, how to pin with purpose, highlight posts, and talk about the new 'contact' through facebook feature - [Tackling Timeline (step #2)…Tabs, Tabs, Tabs!](https://themilkyway.ca/tackling-timeline-step-2-tabs-tabs-tabs/) - Ok. Hopefully you had a chance to update your cover image & profile image to fit the new timeline format.If you haven't, check out our quick tutorial hereSo, next up on our 'to-do' list...TABS!In the old style, our tabs were found along the left side. Now, you will find the tabs along the top.Your first - [Facebook is still your friend...really!](https://themilkyway.ca/facebook-is-still-your-friend-really/) - Just when you had your page layout, landing tabs, and fan gates all figured out, facebook goes and announces Timeline. No need to pout or stamp your feet. The change is happening. Embrace it. And, to help you embrace it, over the next week, we'll be changing over OUR facebook page to timeline, and sharing - [You Can't Buy Style](https://themilkyway.ca/you-cant-buy-style/) - Things I wish I would have known before I started a Photography Business. You can't Buy Style. For the first year of my business I bought EVERYTHING. Hats, props, backdrops, floors you name it! I bought it. About 7 months ago I realized one day I was hiding behind my props. I decided to challenge - [A bed is not always a bed!](https://themilkyway.ca/a-bed-is-not-always-a-bed-2/) - One of my favourite backdrops is the the big fluffy bed with white pillows & yummy white duvet. What many people don't know is that this is not my bed or a bedroom in my house. This is in my studio. What I do is set up my backdrop with whatever color seamless I decide to - [Photographer Q & A](https://themilkyway.ca/photographer-q-a/) - WOW!! I have to say I am overwhelmed with the awesome questions I received for this blog post. I wasn't able to answer every one here (or it would have been a very, VERY long post), but I will definitely have more FAQ opportunities in the future! I hope this helps you on your photography ## Pages - [Podcast Guest HQ](https://themilkyway.ca/podcastguesthq/) - Podcast Guest HQ Welcome! We are soooo happy you are are joining us as a guest on the Art & Soul Show! On this page, you'll find all the info you need to get booked in and how to make this an amazing episode for our listeners. 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