Take Your Shot Podcast

Halle Heather

Take Your Shot Podcast is a business and entrepreneurship podcast for photographers and creative entrepreneurs looking for encouragement on how to scale their photography business. Have you ever wondering how can you go full time as a wedding photographer? Or how to grow a six figure business as a creative entrepreneur? Are you looking for business advice for small business owner? You, my friend, are in the right place. The take your shot podcast covers all topics related to marketing, booking more clients, branding and website strategy, as well as all the important tools you need to scale your business. We also cover mindset and overcoming limiting beliefs. If you're feeling stuck in your business and tired of trying to figure it all out on your own, looking for advice on how to go full-time with your photography business or want all the necessary tips and encouragement on how to scale your photography business, you are in the right place. join us every week and subscribe so you don't miss an episode! My name is Halle Heather and I’m a full-time wedding photographer with an MBA and so being able to combine my knowledge and skills as a photographer along with my passion for business is truly a dream come true. I want to see people succeed in their goals and dreams and I believe there is a place for everyone here. You may also like other similar podcasts such as: The Six Figure Photography Podcast, Passion with Purpose, The Heart and Hustle Podcast, The Business of Photography Podcast, The Beginners Photography Podcast, PhotoBizX, Book More Clients Photography Podcast, Bokeh The Photography Podcast, The Photography Mentor, Best Photography Podcast, The Photography Coach, Photography Business Advice, Photography Business Secrets, How to Film Weddings, and The B&H Photography Podcast. read less
BusinessBusiness

Episodes

071 - How a CRM Can Simplify Your Business with Perry Smith from Inly
Jan 30 2025
071 - How a CRM Can Simplify Your Business with Perry Smith from Inly
Running a creative business is about more than just doing what you love—it’s about managing clients, sending invoices, signing contracts, and staying organized. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the backend of your business, this episode is for you!I sat down with Perry Smith, photographer-turned-tech-founder, to talk about why every creative business owner needs a CRM and how Inly is making the process easier than ever. Perry shares how Inly simplifies client communication, automates workflows, and ultimately helps you get paid faster—without the hassle.If you’re still using spreadsheets, sticky notes, or outdated systems to manage your business, now’s the time to level up. Let’s talk about how the right CRM can save you time, energy, and stress in 2025!In This Episode, We Cover:What a CRM is and why every creative entrepreneur needs oneHow Inly simplifies contracts, invoices, proposals, and workflowsThe importance of protecting your creative energy by automating the admin workWhy some CRMs don’t actually have your best interest in mind (and what to look for instead!)The migration process: How to switch from another CRM without the headacheExciting features Inly is rolling out in 2025Resources & Links Mentioned:Try Inly for Free: www.inly.comExclusive Discount: Use code TAKEYOURSHOT10 for 10% off your monthly or annual planFollow Inly on Instagram: @inly.ioJoin the Free Take Your Shot Collective Community: Join Now1:1 Coaching with Halle: Learn MoreMore Business Resources: Explore HereDid You Find This Helpful?If you enjoyed this episode of the Take Your Shot Podcast, don’t forget to leave us a review and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!
070 - Start Stop Continue: Reflecting and planning for 2025
Jan 16 2025
070 - Start Stop Continue: Reflecting and planning for 2025
Start Stop Continue: Reflecting and Planning for 2025It’s a new year, and with that comes fresh opportunities to reflect, plan, and set the tone for the months ahead. In this episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, I walk you through the Start, Stop, Continue method I use to reflect on what’s working, what needs to change, and where to focus for the year ahead. Whether you’re a photographer, creative entrepreneur, or simply someone looking for clarity, this episode will inspire you to approach 2025 with intentionality.In This Episode, We Cover:The Start, Stop, Continue method for deep reflection and planningWhy starting new habits requires making space by stopping old onesHow to focus on high-impact activities in your businessSimplifying life and business for more efficiency and easeThe importance of getting in the room with people who inspire youHow to find accountability and surround yourself with a supportive communityMore From Take Your Shot CollectiveWe're all about supporting and elevating creative business owners, and so along with our weekly business podcast, we have so much more to share with you! Get plugged in, take what you need, and let me know how I can continue to support you in your business.Free Online Community: Join here1:1 Coaching with Halle: Learn moreBusiness Resources: Explore resourcesLet's connect on Instagram!! https://www.instagram.com/takeyourshotcollectiveDid You Find This Helpful?If you enjoyed this episode of the Take Your Shot Podcast, don’t forget to leave us a review and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comFollow on Spotify: https://spotify.comThank you for tuning in! Let’s connect on Instagram, where I share more tips and support for creative entrepreneurs like you!
066 - Adding income streams to your photography business
Nov 19 2024
066 - Adding income streams to your photography business
Description:As we head into the slower (or strategy!) season for wedding photographers, are you wondering how to keep the income flowing? In this episode, I’m sharing practical ways to add new income streams using the skills you already have. From mini sessions to headshots, second shooting, and even marketing support for your peers, there are so many opportunities to diversify your offerings while building relationships and serving your community.We’ll also chat about structuring payment plans for more consistent income, pivoting when an idea doesn’t work, and staying proactive in your business. Whether you’re looking for ways to fill your calendar or just want to explore new opportunities, this episode will inspire you to think creatively about your photography business.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to structure payment plans for consistent off-season incomeCreative ways to offer services like mini sessions, headshots, and branding photographyThe benefits of second shooting and assisting other photographersSupporting industry peers with culling, editing, and marketing servicesWhy diversifying your income can strengthen your businessReady to explore these ideas and more? Let’s dive in!Links and Resources Mentioned:Apply for Coaching withe Halle: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/coaching Join the free online community: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/communityConnect with Me:Instagram: @takeyourshotcollective
065 - Scaling Your Business Without Sacrifice with Ashley Ebert
Nov 11 2024
065 - Scaling Your Business Without Sacrifice with Ashley Ebert
Are you wondering how to scale your wedding business without burning out? In this episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, I chat with Ashley Ebert, founder of the Simply Elegant Group and The Abundance Group, about the key strategies you need to grow your business sustainably. Ashley shares her approach to building strong relationships, managing your data, and expanding your team for long-term success.In This Episode, We Cover:Recognizing the signs that it’s time to scaleHow to build powerful vendor relationships and partnershipsFocusing on better clients, not just more clientsBuilding and leading a team for sustainable growthUsing data to make smarter scaling decisionsLinks Mentioned:Connect with Ashley Ebert:Website: Simply Elegant Group - https://simplyelegantgroup.comWebsite: The Abundance Group - https://theabundance.groupMore From Take Your Shot CollectiveWe're all about supporting and elevating creative business owners, and so along with our weekly business podcast, we have so much more to share with you! Get plugged in, take what you need, and let me know how I can continue to support you in your business.Join our free online community: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/communityFree resources and discounts: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/resourcesCoaching opportunities with Halle: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/coachingMore business resources: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/business-resourcesDid You Find This Helpful?If you enjoyed this episode of the Take Your Shot Podcast, don’t forget to leave us a review and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comFollow on Spotify: https://spotify.comThank you for tuning in! If you found this conversation helpful, let’s connect on Instagram, where I share more tips and support for creative entrepreneurs like you.Instagram: Take Your Shot Collective: https://www.instagram.com/takeyourshotcollective
063 - Your work won't market itself with Tayler Cusick Hollman from ENJI
Oct 28 2024
063 - Your work won't market itself with Tayler Cusick Hollman from ENJI
Are you struggling to get consistent results from your marketing efforts? In this episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, I sit down with Tayler Cusick Hollman, a marketing consultant turned tech founder, to dive into the common mistakes business owners make when it comes to marketing. Tayler shares actionable advice on how to create a marketing strategy that works, why consistency is key, and how to avoid relying too heavily on social media or referrals alone.In This Episode, We Cover:Why marketing is often the first task business owners neglectCommon marketing mistakes, including relying solely on your work to sell itselfThe importance of having a well-structured website with optimized SEOWhy you need to show up in your marketing by sharing your face and storyCreating a balanced marketing strategy with multiple channels: social media, blogging, and email marketingHow to build a “marketing machine” that drives consistent leads for your businessLinks Mentioned:Connect with Tayler Cusick Hollman:Website: www.inji.coInstagram: @inji_coMore From Take Your Shot CollectiveWe're all about supporting and elevating creative business owners, and so along with our weekly business podcast, we have so much more to share with you! Get plugged in, take what you need, and let me know how I can continue to support you in your business.Join our free online community: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/communityFree resources and discounts: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/resourcesCoaching opportunities with Halle: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/coachingMore business resources: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/business-resourcesDid You Find This Helpful?If you enjoyed this episode of the Take Your Shot Podcast, don’t forget to leave us a review and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comFollow on Spotify: https://spotify.comThank you for tuning in! If you found this conversation helpful, let’s connect on Instagram, where I share more tips and support for creative entrepreneurs like you.Instagram: Take Your Shot Collective: https://www.instagram.com/takeyourshotcollective
062 - Creative Strategies for Moving Markets with Kari Bjorn
Oct 21 2024
062 - Creative Strategies for Moving Markets with Kari Bjorn
Are you a wedding photographer thinking about moving to a new market? Or maybe you’re looking to improve your SEO and build a presence in multiple locations? In this episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, I sit down with Kari Bjorn, a destination wedding photographer who has successfully navigated moving his business across markets. Kari shares his expert strategies for managing a business move, producing content for new markets, and leveraging SEO techniques like backlinks to boost your search ranking.In This Episode, We Cover:How to audit and update your website when moving marketsThe importance of producing content for your new locationStrategies for building backlinks and improving SEOThe power of being the first to write about new venues in your areaHow to use real-life networking and Facebook groups to connect with local clientsLinks Mentioned:Connect with Kari Bjorn:Website: www.karibjorn.comInstagram: @karibjorn_Kari also offers SEO consultations and one-on-one coaching calls for wedding photographers.More From Take Your Shot CollectiveWe're all about supporting and elevating creative business owners, and so along with our weekly business podcast, we have so much more to share with you! Get plugged in, take what you need, and let me know how I can continue to support you in your business.Join our free online community: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/communityFree resources and discounts: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/resourcesCoaching opportunities with Halle: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/coachingMore business resources: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/business-resourcesDid You Find This Helpful?If you enjoyed this episode of the Take Your Shot Podcast, don’t forget to leave us a review and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.comFollow on Spotify: https://spotify.comThank you for tuning in! If you found this conversation helpful, let’s connect on Instagram, where I share more tips and support for creative entrepreneurs like you.Instagram: Take Your Shot Collective: https://www.instagram.com/takeyourshotcollective
061 - Easy ways to optimize your website for SEO with Rachel Woods
Oct 14 2024
061 - Easy ways to optimize your website for SEO with Rachel Woods
Are you ready to make your website more effective and user-friendly? In this episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, I sit down with SEO and marketing expert Rachel Woods to discuss essential tips for optimizing your website for both user experience and SEO. Whether you’re a creative business owner or photographer, Rachel shares actionable advice on improving your site’s performance, increasing visibility, and converting visitors into clients.In This Episode, We Cover:Why your website’s mobile performance matters most for SEOCommon mistakes in website SEO and how to fix themTools for auditing your site’s performance, including PageSpeed Insights and UberSuggestPractical tips for optimizing image sizes, alt text, and meta descriptionsHow to audit and fix broken links to improve your site’s rankingLinks Mentioned:Free SEO Resources:Page Speed InsightsUberSuggestBroken Link CheckerTinyPNGMy Website Image Workflow (this blog post goes through the steps Rachel discussed on the pod)Contact Me & Free Tips/Tools:Rachel's WebsiteRachel's Blog (lots of free resources!)Join Rachel's Email List (2x per month tips and tools)Rachel's Free SEO ToolkitInstagram: @woodsmarcomLinkedIn: Rachel A. WoodsMore From Take Your Shot CollectiveWe're all about supporting and elevating creative business owners, and so along with our weekly business podcast, we have so much more to share with you! Get plugged in, take what you need, and let me know how I can continue to support you in your business.Join our free online communityFree resources and discounts!Coaching opportunities with HalleMore business resourcesDid You Find This Helpful?If you enjoyed this episode of the Take Your Shot Podcast, don’t forget to leave us a review and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!Subscribe on Apple PodcastsFollow on SpotifyThank you for tuning in! If you found this conversation helpful, let’s connect on Instagram, where I share more tips and support for creative entrepreneurs like you.Instagram: Take Your Shot CollectiveEpisode Show Notes:...
060 - Closing more consultations with Nikki Rausch
Oct 7 2024
060 - Closing more consultations with Nikki Rausch
Are you a creative business owner who cringes at the thought of sales? In this episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, I sit down with Nikki Rausch, CEO of Sales Maven, to discuss how you can approach selling in a way that feels natural, authentic, and not pushy. Nikki’s expertise in sales and neurolinguistic programming will help you reframe the sales process into something collaborative and confidence-boosting.In This Episode, We Cover:How to reframe sales as a collaborative process rather than a “convincing game”The 5-Step Selling Staircase framework for successful salesTips for creating a powerful introduction and making the right first impressionHow to ask the right questions during a discovery callPresenting your proposal and closing without feeling awkward or pushyThe concept of inviting clients to work with you, rather than "selling" to themLinks Mentioned:Download Nikki’s Free E-Book: "Closing the Sale" for tips on boosting your confidence during the closing process. Get it hereConnect with Nikki Roush:Sales Maven WebsiteSales Maven PodcastMore From Take Your Shot CollectiveWe're all about supporting and elevating creative business owners, and so along with our weekly business podcast, we have so much more to share with you! Get plugged in, take what you need, and let me know how I can continue to support you in your business!Join our free online communityFree resources and discounts!Coaching opportunities with HalleMore business resourcesDid you find this helpful?If you enjoyed this episode of the Take Your Shot Podcast, don’t forget to leave us a review and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!Subscribe on Apple PodcastsFollow on SpotifyThank you for tuning in! If you found this conversation helpful, let’s connect on Instagram, where I share more tips and support for creative entrepreneurs like you.Instagram: Take Your Shot CollectiveEpisode Show Notes: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/selling-without-feeling-salesy-insights-from-nikki-rausch/
059 - Leveraging Styled Shoots to Network with Katy Murray
Sep 30 2024
059 - Leveraging Styled Shoots to Network with Katy Murray
Are you looking to build stronger connections in the wedding photography industry? In this episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, I chat with Katy Murray from the Ginger Biz podcast about how to leverage styled shoots to expand your network. Katy shares her journey from photography to becoming a human resources professional and how she has used styled shoots not just to build her portfolio but to create meaningful relationships with other vendors and professionals in the industry.We dive into strategies for hosting styled shoots that go beyond just taking pretty pictures. Katy explains how to use these shoots as a tool for networking and getting your name out there, leading to more opportunities, publications, and real wedding bookings. Whether you're new to styled shoots or looking to enhance your networking game, this episode is packed with actionable insights.Key Takeaways:How to use styled shoots for networking and not just for building a portfolioTips on choosing the right vendors and creating meaningful connectionsThe importance of follow-up and maintaining relationshipsBest practices for coordinating styled shoots and ensuring everyone benefitsFollow Katy Murray:Katy’s Instagram: Ginger BizKaty’s Website: Ginger BizFollow me on InstagramInstagram: Take Your Shot CollectiveMore From Take Your Shot Collective We're all about supporting and elevating creative business owners, and so along with our weekly business podcast we have so much more to share with you! Get plugged in, take what you need, and let me know how I can continue to support you in your business!Join our free online communityFree resources and discounts!Coaching opportunities with HalleMore business resourcesDid you find this helpful? If you enjoyed this episode of the Take Your Shot Podcast, don’t forget to leave us a review and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Follow on SpotifyEpisode Show Notes: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/how-photographers-can-leveraging-styled-shoots-to-build-their-network/Thank you for tuning in! If this episode was helpful, share it on your story and tag me—I’d love to hear how you’re leveraging styled shoots to network and grow your photography business. Let’s keep the conversation going!
058 - Automating and selling out your Mini Sessions
Sep 23 2024
058 - Automating and selling out your Mini Sessions
Tips for automating and selling out your mini sessionsAre you thinking about hosting mini sessions this season but unsure how to make them successful? In this episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, I’m diving into all things mini sessions! Whether you love them or feel like you’ve struggled to make them work in the past, I’m sharing practical tips from my own experience to help you succeed.We’ll cover everything from what mini sessions are, how to structure them, marketing strategies, pricing, and even mistakes I’ve made so you can avoid them. I’ll also share ideas for making the booking process easy for both you and your clients, using tools like Dubsado and PickTime to automate the process and deliver an amazing client experience.Key Takeaways:How to define and structure mini sessions for your businessFinding the right pricing sweet spot for your target audienceMarketing strategies, including email lists, social media, and incentivesTools for automating the booking process and delivering galleriesPost-session upselling tips to increase your revenueConnect with me on Instagram:Instagram: Take Your Shot CollectiveTools and resourcesEpisode Show Notes: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/tips-for-automating-and-selling-out-your-mini-sessions/Thank you for tuning in! If you’re hosting mini sessions this year or have questions, reach out to me on Instagram—I’d love to hear your plans and help support you. Don’t forget to subscribe for more tips on running a successful photography business!
057 - How cornerstone content plays a role in SEO strategy with Eden Sloboth
Sep 16 2024
057 - How cornerstone content plays a role in SEO strategy with Eden Sloboth
Are you struggling to get your website noticed? Have you ever wondered how cornerstone content can boost your SEO strategy and drive qualified traffic to your site? In this episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, I sit down with SEO expert Eden Sloboth, founder of Maven Made Copy, to discuss the importance of cornerstone content in transforming your website's SEO strategy.We dive into what cornerstone content is, how to choose the right topics, and why it’s a game-changer for improving search engine rankings. Eden shares practical tips for structuring your cornerstone posts, optimizing for keywords, and maintaining fresh, updated content to keep Google interested.Key Takeaways:What cornerstone content is and how it can transform your websiteHow to choose the right cornerstone topics for your businessThe SEO advantages of cornerstone content in ranking for more keywordsTips for structuring and updating your cornerstone blog postsTools for keyword research and practical steps to get startedConnect with Eden Sloboth:Eden’s Website: Maven Made CopyEden’s Instagram: @mavenmadecopyResources Mentioned:Download Eden’s free blogging template hereGet your free SEO Ebook hereAccess the brand audit workbook hereFollow me on Instagram:Instagram: Take Your Shot CollectiveMore From Take Your Shot Collective We're all about supporting and elevating creative business owners, and so along with our weekly business podcast we have so much more to share with you! Get plugged in, take what you need, and let me know how I can continue to support you in your business!Join our free online communityFree resources and discounts!Coaching opportunities with HalleMore business resourcesDid you find this helpful? If you enjoyed this episode of the Take Your Shot Podcast, don’t forget to leave us a review and subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Follow on SpotifyEpisode Show Notes: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/how-cornerstone-content-plays-a-role-in-seo-strategy-with-eden-sloboth/
056- Leveraging Email Marketing to Grow Your Photography Business with Kendra Swalls
Sep 9 2024
056- Leveraging Email Marketing to Grow Your Photography Business with Kendra Swalls
Are you looking to grow your photography business and connect with clients on a deeper level? In this episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, I chat with Kendra Swalls, a marketing expert, photographer, and host of the Girl Means Business podcast. Kendra shares her insights on how photographers can effectively use email marketing to build strong client relationships, increase bookings, and create a sustainable business model.We dive into why email marketing is a foundational strategy that every photographer should embrace. Kendra talks about common misconceptions, the importance of nurturing your email list, and practical tips on creating lead magnets that attract your ideal clients. She also covers how to segment your audience, craft engaging emails, and leverage automations to save time and maintain consistent communication.Key Takeaways:The importance of building an email list from the start of your businessHow to create lead magnets that appeal to your ideal clientsStrategies for nurturing your email list and turning subscribers into loyal customersTools and platforms for building and managing your email marketingConnect with Kendra Swalls:Kendra’s Instagram: Girl Means BusinessKendra’s Website: Girl Means BusinessLooking to grow your business even more? Check out my business resources page:Take Your Shot Collective Business ResourcesInterested in 1:1 coaching to take your photography business to the next level? Learn more here:1:1 Coaching with HalleJOIN US IN ARIZONA for our next workshop!!!Apply to the workshop! Use code “TYS600” to get an additional $600 off!Link to ApplyFollow me on InstagramInstagram: Take Your Shot Collective
054 - When to raise or lower your photography prices
Aug 26 2024
054 - When to raise or lower your photography prices
Are you a wedding photographer wondering if it’s time to adjust your pricing? In this episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, I dive into the ins and outs of photography pricing—specifically when to raise your rates and when you might need to lower them. With the wedding photography market constantly shifting, it's crucial to evaluate your current pricing strategy to ensure it aligns with your business goals.I discuss key indicators that it might be time to raise your prices, such as booking weddings too quickly, experiencing increased demand, or recognizing the investments you've made in your photography business. On the other hand, I also cover scenarios where lowering your photography prices might be the right move, such as entering a new market or adapting to changes in your target audience’s needs.This episode is packed with practical advice for wedding photographers on how to evaluate and adjust their pricing strategy. Whether you're overwhelmed by too many bookings or struggling to book weddings at the right price, this episode will help you find that sweet spot.Key Takeaways:How to recognize when it’s time to raise your wedding photography pricesSituations where lowering your photography pricing might make senseThe importance of understanding your market and ideal wedding clientsStrategies for adjusting your prices without devaluing your workJOIN US IN ARIZONA for our next workshop!!!We’re hosting an in-person, 5-day workshop in Scottsdale Arizona where we will be kicking off 2025 with incredible community, business coaching, and some content shoots! Join us January 5-9 for our next Take Your Shot Workshop! Link to ApplyResources:Free Business Resources to help you scale your wedding photography businessConnect with Halle on Instagram @takeyourshotcollectiveEPISODE SHOW NOTES: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/when-to-raise-or-lower-your-photography-prices-a-guide-for-wedding-photographers/Thank you for tuning in! If this episode was helpful, share it on your instagram story and tag me—I’d love to hear how you’re navigating your wedding photography pricing strategy. Let’s keep the conversation going!