Are you ready to evolve your photography passion into a business? This episode guides you through the basics of setting up a photography enterprise. We illuminate the process of creating and registering your business, placing special emphasis on the advantages of launching as an LLC. You'll gain insights into protecting your personal assets, savoring tax benefits and the pitfalls that could potentially endanger your personal assets.Imagine a world where your photography business is not just a hobby, but a full-fledged professional venture. Let's take a trip into that world, examining the importance of a distinctive business name, the process of securing an EIN number, and how to obtain necessary permits or licenses. We'll also introduce you to a secret weapon - Client Relationship Management (CRM) software. I'll share my experience to help you choose the best fit for your business. Discover how automation can revolutionize your operations, boosting productivity and providing more time to focus on your passion.The grand finale of our journey delves into the realm of tax deductions - a crucial aspect for any successful business. Learn about record keeping, staying updated with tax laws and the expenses you can deduct. And remember, treating your photography venture with the seriousness it deserves goes a long way in ensuring your success. From proper registration and business structuring to utilizing readily available tools, this episode is packed with valuable insights to elevate your photography from hobby to business. Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

Have you ever wondered how photography workshops can ignite your creativity, refine your skills and push your business to new heights? I'm here to tell you that workshops are a game changer. They offer an opportunity for camaraderie and connection, for learning and growth, and for witnessing the transformative power of your photography. I'll share my insights on the importance of these workshops, not only for your personal artistic journey but for your business as well.We'll also tackle the necessity of staying on top of industry trends, and how workshops can aid you in this endeavor. If you're worried about just mimicking what everyone else is doing, worry no more! We'll discuss how to incorporate trends into your work in a unique way. However, not all workshops are created equal. I'll equip you with the knowledge to discern which workshops to avoid, such as those offering portfolio building sessions where everyone ends up with identical photos. I'll talk about the 5 things every swell-structured photography workshop should provide for deep learning to improve your skills:1. Knowledge Expansion2. Networking and Collaboration 3. Creative Inspiration4. Constructive Criticism and Feedback5. Personal Confidence and Growth6. Exposure to Industry and Artistic TrendsMy goal is to help you get the most value out of your investment in a photography workshop. I'll delve into the details of what makes a workshop truly beneficial, from its size to its focus on portfolio through individualized creativity and detailed planning. I'll even share my personal experiences attending workshops, and their impact on my photography journey. It's time to spark your creativity, broaden your network, and take your photography to new heights. So, tune in and let's explore  photography workshops together.Resources, Photographers, and Companies Mentioned During This EpisodeSarah EdmundsSimone DiezOrlett Pearson MsCallClot StudioGravity BackdropsGraphi Studio Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

Are your photos not quite hitting the mark in low-light situations? Frustrated with unwanted noise in your images? This episode is just the tool you need to understand the power of ISO in your photography . Join us on Clued Up with Maria B, as we shed light on the third pillar of the exposure triangle - ISO. We'll dig deep into what a native ISO is and expose the secret of how bumping up your ISO can lead to better image exposure. You'll walk away with a clear and solid understanding of ISO, ready to experiment and optimize your camera settings for a variety of lighting situations.Maximize your camera's potential by understanding its maximum ISO sensitivity and learn how tweaking this can substantially reduce noise in your photographs. I'll guide you on this journey of discovery and experimentation, illustrating how an increase in ISO is the secret sauce to capturing crisp images when shooting in low light. However, increased ISO isn't without its trade-offs. We'll explore the delicate balance between ISO and the introduction of noise into your photos. This conversation is a must-listen for both budding photographers and seasoned professionals looking to sharpen their skills. So, get ready to crack the ISO code with me on Clued Up with Maria B.Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

This episode is your golden ticket to understanding the art and science of planning a successful maternity photoshoot. I'm your host, Maria B, and I'll be pulling back the curtain to reveal the meticulous steps, from striking the right business balance to building the foundations for your creativity, all in service of a smooth and enjoyable client experience. Get ready to step into my shoes as we navigate the intricate process of setting dates, securing makeup artists, and handling contracts with ease using Studio Ninja, our client relationship management software. I'll share my personal tips on choosing the perfect materials to celebrate and accentuate the miracle of pregnancy, while keeping the client's interests at heart. Along the way, you'll hear stories from my journey and learnings from past photoshoots, sparking inspiration for your next maternity shoot. So, buckle up for an enlightening and engaging behind-the-scenes that will enhance  your approach to maternity photography.LaClef Strapless Side Ruche Bodycon Tube Top Maternity DressSioro Women's Silk Satin Lace  Trim Embroidery BathrobeBefore and Ever Mood Fabric (Shop Sales Section First)Etsy Elastic Webbing Cloth Lola Melani Academy Lola Melani Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

Ever wondered what separates a good photographer from a truly great one? Let's find out! Today, we dive into the world of photography, exploring the elements that transform a simple click into a breathtaking masterpiece. We'll unravel the blend of technical skills, artistic vision, and the dedication necessary to separate from the photograph pack. The ability to visualize the shot before clicking the shutter, creating a powerful composition, and pushing boundaries with colors and innovation - these are all part of the recipe for success.But photography isn't just about technicalities. It's about the intimate dance between the photographer and the subject - the connection that makes each photograph a story worth telling. From building a rapport to empathizing with the subject, we'll shed light on how interaction adds depth to your photographs. And remember, the key to becoming a great photographer is the relentless pursuit of knowledge. As the world of photography constantly evolves, a true artist thrives on learning and adapting. You can't transform from good to great by buying the latest gear. Photography education is the key to breaking away from the pack and becoming a great photographer. The 8 Elelments to Becoming a Great PhotographerTechnical ProficiencyCreativity and Artistic VisionAttention to DetailPatience and TimingAdaptability and Problem-Solving SkillsStorytelling AbilityConnection and EmpathyContinuous Education Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

In this episode we explore 10 Food for Thought Photography Questions about our photography. These are questions I've thought about over time. The answers  change based on my experiences and what's significant to me at the time. I think you'll find the same if you ever choose to come back to them. These questions show us where we are and where we want to be, and in some cases, the likelihood of making our answers real. As the title states, these questions are food for thought to help us think about and explore what appeals to us and what nourishes us on our photography journey.  Reach out and let me know some of your responses. We'll talk about them in an upcoming episode. Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

In this week's episode we take a closer look at planning and executing headshots for clients. Headshots should be easy, and they are, as long as you plan ahead and prepare so that when your client arrives it's a go!Understanding your client's needs and their expectations, will provide you with a wealth of information to make this as simple and as easy a process as possible. Remember, understanding you clients' goals helps you to obtain your photography goals. Here are some of the platforms and sites mentioned in this episode: Image SalonRetouchUp.comHeadshotNJ@photographermariab@gardenstateheadshotsQuestions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

In this, our first Case Study, we talk about making major decisions in your photography business that reflect  and affect your morals, ethics, and your integrity. We talk about knowing when it is and isn't the right time to seek payment for work related to an important cause and one in which the subject or subjects of your photograph represent a civil struggle and the fight against injustice-in this case, Black Lives Matter.We also discuss the importance of usage right in distributing your photos to major brands and companies and the need to utilize resources to ensure that as photographers we make informed decisions when we seek renumeration or allow for use of photos without financial compensation. Similarly, we talk about when we should separate ourselves from a collective entity in order to negotiate with companies and brands for the work required by them in order for them to use our work.If you'd like to learn more about usage rights, copyrights, and your legal standing as a photographer, please go to Copytrack.com. Click on the link to this page for information specific to Photo Usage and Licensing. This is definitely worth the read: It's important whether you're a pro or an amateur, a business owner or a hobbyist. Take a look at photographer Joel Sartore's website to get some idea about how photographers word usage information on their websites. This is a fine example that can by tailored and made appropriate for you work as well. While on Joel's site, please take a look at "The Photo Ark", his work dedicated to raising awareness of what our planet is losing. Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

In this bonus episode, I discuss with you the realities of what goes on when potential clients contact you about a photo shoot-in this case, headshots and an event. What often seems like a clear cut, smooth sailing process, is almost always guaranteed to have some challenges. That's not a bad thing. It makes you think or rethink some of your strategies and can make you recognize some areas that require improvement. Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

In this episode, we'll talk about the settings used to capture sharp, well-lit photos on the runway during NY Fashion Week. Relying on the basic understanding of aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, I discuss how I arrive at the settings I used during runway shows, plus, a brief discussion on why Auto White Balance (AWB) is the way to go whether your shooting guests during intermission or shooting the actual runway show. I also discuss that you don't have to travel to a major city in order to attend a runway show as a photographer. By establishing a relationship with a local modeling agency, or by keeping your ear tuned to local events, you can start with smaller shows and work your way into larger more extravagantly produced fashion shows. The best way to learn is to do. I encourage you to shoot runway even if fashion is not your thing. It really is a fantastic learning experience. Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

In this episode we talk about the whirlwind fun, craziness, and adventure of shooting at New York Fashion Week. Rest assure, these tips work for every runway show no matter where the show is held. In this episode we talk about navigating through the prep work, long hours, in-between sessions, the post-show networking and the after party. Runway shows make new photographers grow up fast because you have no choice but to learn, learn fast, and then get better. The big takeaway: Apply to smaller independent runway shows and if you get in, go! You'll thank me later!Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

Let's talk about dressing for photography! Our clothing has to be functional, comfortable, & flexible, while professional and relatable to our clients, and appropriate for the shoot or in some cases, the venue. We have to  dress with confidence! See the links below mentioned in this episode. Enjoy!VideosWhat to Wear on Camera How to Look Good on Video Calls 5 min Makeup for Video Conferencing ProductsEstee Lauder Double Wear FoundationEstée Lauder Revitalize Supreme + MoisturizerSmashbox PrimerEstée Lauder Waterproof Mascara Estée Lauder Waterproof EyelinerDior Iconic Waterproof MascaraAnastasia Eyebrow Pencil (Brow Wiz) Urban Decay Eye Primer PotionJones Road Beauty Balm in FlushClinique Take the Day Off Makeup Remover Clinique 7 Day Scrub CreamClinique All About Clean Foaming CleanserEstée Lauder Advanced Night RepairQuestions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

In this episode I share my recent personal experience with a no-show clients, and I talk about the urgency of your self-value when interacting with clients and businesses. It's important to recognize and believe in your value both as a professional and as a person, and to conduct your photography business and anything else in your life accordingly. This episode is as behind the scenes as it gets because your success depends more on how you value and respect yourself before others do. People treat you the way you treat yourself! That's the take away from this episode. Listen and Learn!Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

In this episode I talk about service. Specifically making your client the center of what you do as a photographer beyond taking photos. As a photographer, you're in the service industry, and giving service to your clients has to be your number one priority. It's not about creating lavish sets, or serving champagne, or chocolate-covered strawberries:It's about making people feel good, feel great, about themselves; so good, that the talk about you and your service and about their experience with you. It's karma.It comes back to you as you will hear when you listen to this week's episode. Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

In a previous episode, episode 10,  I talked about the importance of knowing how you learn or in other words, how best you comprehend information. Here's something to keep in mind: Much the same way photography information has to be communicated in several ways in order for us to learn, we should consider the same thing when it comes to our clients or potential clients. I talk about this short episode in which I give the example of providing information to a client through written information only to find out on the morning of the shoot that she didn't read it. At best she skimmed through the info. She arranged her schedule not knowing the shoot would take as long as I had said in the information I had sent to her. Because there was now a potential time conflict, I initially felt a little rushed. I even asked my makeup artist to arrive a little earlier than scheduled. We actually didn't get to use all of the outfits the client had brought and there were some interesting outfits that would have looked really great in her personal branding photos, but we ran out of time. The gist of this is, don't just send your clients info. Get on the phone, do a Zoom call or something similar, and talk to your client about all the info you need to give them so they're well prepared. Use multiple means of Communication!This shoot went really well. We all had a good time and the client was absolutely amazing but it could have been even better had there been more time giving her many more photos to use in her business. As you've heard me say several times, "Don't make my mistakes." Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

Controlling light seems complex, but the truth is it's as complex or as simple as it's explained to those who are interested in learning and understanding it. Too often, I've found that a 5 minute to 30 minutes explanation can't cut it, and generally, it leaves people lost, confused, and frustrated. We're going to take a different path, whether it's all about light, or about aperture or about the exposure triangle, we're going to break down each piece so that you learn the information you need to support your photography. In this episode we're discussing the shutter in your camerathe shutter speed that affects your exposure, and how to use your shutter and shutter speed to convey sharpness and motionI've also provided you with a few excellent articles on shutter and shutter speed. Understanding Shutter Speed, Both Slow and FastIntroduction to Shutter Speed in PhotographyWhat is Shutter Speed (And Why it Matters in Photography)I've also posted some photos on this episode's website so that you can see some really strong examples of the power of manipulating the shutter and shutter speeds. Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

In this week's episode we begin the discussion on light, not from the technical aspect but more from an emotional aspect. That emotion is fear: fear of learning something that appears complex and most importantly and fear of failure. I can relate because for years, I struggled with my own fear using light in photography. I was lost and had no guidance. Everyone I listened to would just spit out these terms that were essentially a new language. I gave up but then I had an experience that changed everything. As it often happens, we believe we can't learn something or do something until we're put in a situation in which we must act. Then the light (no pun intended) goes on!!If light, particularly artificial light has been a problem, then listen to this episode. You're not alone...and I believe I can help you. Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

In this week's episode we talk about collaboration among creatives: Photographers and other artists. I share with you the positives and the challenges of photographing a large event. In my case the painting and installation of a 9000 sq ft. Black Lives Matter Mural over the course of a week. I provide inside observations of what is needed among professionals to ensure photography and other visual media are used effectively in order to provide cohesive images. This is not an easy process, and as you will hear, it's very easy for gaps to open into huge crevices and leave parts of an event uncovered, or as was the case with this project, scant coverage for some parts and over coverage from others. Learn from my experience. Three essential factors are vital to success among collaborator:CommunicationPlanningOrganizationQuestions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

In this episode I share with you what I considered to be an epic fail and my most challenging photoshoot. Oddly enough it had nothing to do with the client. I share with you what happens when you lose control of your shoot and when you loose control of your space, your physical and your professional space. I'll also share the important lessons I've learned and the steps I've taken to ensure that I maintain control of future shoots. {4:36} This day was about the client and it ended up that this person just took all of the attention or most of the attention away from the client and that is what bothered me the most.{5:17} This person was someone who, for two, maybe three years, we've had a business relationship, and I have been in her place of business. {15:17} ... to know that I have to write this into a contract now because of someone's behavior, is just extremely unfortunate, but I don't want this to happen again and the reason I'm discussing this with you ...I want you to see what happens when you lose control of your space.{20:46} Sometimes there's a negative outcome no matter which way you choose to go. In this case, I chose to sever a relationship with someone I had been doing business with for a number of years. But I have to tell you, I feel great about my decision. Please feel free to comment on this or any other episode. You can contact me at:MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com Podcast Link: CluedUp with Maria B: The Behind the Scenes Photography PodcastFollow CluedUp on Instagram: @CluedUpBTSFollow CluedUp on Twitter: @CluedUpBTSFollow Me on Instagram: @PhotographerMariaBFollow Me on Twitter: @PhotogMariaBLike Me of FB: @PhtographerMariaBQuestions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

Once you have a rudimentary understanding of your camera, and someone wants you to photograph their event, their party, their kid, or they want you to take their headshot, don’t do it for free. Send your potential client a copy of your price list, a documented affirmation that demonstrates the value of your photography work. Your price list a sign that you're a professional. It shows potential clients you've considered the costs of working as a professional photographer and that you're serious about your business. It also prevents you from making mistakes like overcharging or more importantly, undercharging clients and finding that after you've accounted for your time, services, cost of goods, and cost of doing business, you're actually in the negative. Below are  links to additional articles and sites about appropriate pricing for your photography work. Keep in mind that pricing and rates vary by regions but in lower priced regions that's still not an excuse to undersell yourself. These articles are worth the read for learning about pricing. Black Lives Matter Mural East Orange, NJFashPixelcentsExpert Photography with attention to the sections "Factors to Consider Before Setting Your Rates" and "Photography Rates at a Glance."Guide to Pricing Photography Print by Shot Kit.  See the considerations that lead a photographer to charge more than $50 for an 8 x 10 photo that cost about $13 to print.  Sue Bryce (Membership Required)Tanya Smith: Episode 14, “A Simple Price List for Higher Sales” Episode 2, “Why You Should Never Offer Free Shoots.”Podcast Link: CluedUp with Maria B: The Behind the Scenes Photography PodcastFollow CluedUp on Instagram: @CluedUpBTSFollow CluedUp on Twitter: @CluedUpBTSFollow Me on Instagram: @PhotographerMariaBFollow Me on Twitter: @PhotogMariaBLike Me of FB: @PhtographerMariaB Questions or Comments? Reach out at MariaB@CluedUpBTS.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast.*By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.