Podcast Summary: The Heart & Hustle Podcast | Episode 418: "Want to Get Your Photography Work Published? Here’s Your Step-by-Step Roadmap" with Larkin Kendall
Release Date: January 28, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 418 of The Heart & Hustle Podcast, hosts Evie McLeod and Lindsay Roman welcome internationally published wedding photographer and artist Larkin Kendall. With a decade-long career in photography, Larkin shares her journey from humble beginnings to achieving significant publication milestones. This episode serves as an invaluable resource for photographers aspiring to get their work featured in notable publications.
Guest Introduction and Background
Larkin Kendall introduces herself as an internationally published wedding photographer who began her career under challenging circumstances. Evicted from her home with her family and eight months pregnant, Larkin pivoted to photography as a means to generate income. Her passion quickly transformed from a side quest into a thriving career.
Notable Quote:
[06:06] Larkin Kendall: "I am a homeschool mom with three boys and run the Mother Photographer, an online school that actively mentors photographers."
The Importance of Getting Published
The core of the discussion revolves around the significance of getting photography work published. Larkin emphasizes that publication goes beyond mere clout; it plays a crucial role in enhancing Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and increasing online visibility.
Key Points:
- SEO Benefits: Publications link back to photographers' websites, boosting their credibility and search engine rankings.
- Visibility: Being featured in reputable magazines like Brides can exponentially increase a photographer's audience through platforms like Pinterest and Instagram.
- Symbiotic Relationship: Publications rely on photographers for content, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.
Notable Quote:
[15:14] Larkin Kendall: "Publications handle the SEO by professionally pinning and linking your work, making your website more credible to Google."
Step-by-Step Roadmap to Getting Published
Larkin outlines a strategic approach to getting photography work published, tailored for both beginners and seasoned photographers.
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Research and List Publications:
- Identify target publications that align with your photography style.
- Focus on regional blogs initially as they are often more receptive and less competitive.
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Prepare Your Submission:
- Create a preview gallery that includes both vertical and landscape images.
- Use a pre-wedding questionnaire to gather essential information that can be repurposed for submissions.
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Submit Strategically:
- Do Not Submit the Same Wedding to Multiple Publications Simultaneously to avoid being blacklisted.
- Start with your top-choice publication and proceed downward if rejected.
- Maintain consistency by integrating submission tasks into your workflow, dedicating just 15-20 minutes per submission.
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Handle Rejections Gracefully:
- Understand that a "no" is often not personal but due to aesthetic mismatches or publication schedules.
- Keep submissions ongoing, as publications may revisit earlier submissions after some time.
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Optimize for SEO:
- Ensure that your work is optimized for search engines through proper tagging and linking.
Notable Quote:
[53:03] Larkin Kendall: "Don't be the snake eating its own tail. Just take the risk and don't make it a big deal."
Balancing Client Work with Publication Goals
A significant challenge discussed is maintaining the focus on clients while pursuing publication opportunities. Larkin advises photographers to prioritize client satisfaction over publication aims to preserve the authenticity and quality of their work.
Key Points:
- Client-Centric Approach: Always prioritize the needs and preferences of your clients during shoots.
- Flexible Mindset: Allow creativity to flow naturally without being constrained by publication requirements.
- Separate Priorities: Treat client work and publication submissions as distinct tasks, ensuring neither impinges on the other.
Notable Quote:
[41:23] Larkin Kendall: "Clients are always number one. Nothing should take precedence over serving them beautifully."
Do’s and Don’ts for Getting Published
Do’s:
- Integrate Submission into Your Workflow: Make publishing a routine part of your business operations.
- Research Thoroughly: Understand the aesthetic and requirements of each publication before submitting.
- Stay Persistent: Continually submit your work to various publications, understanding that success may take time.
Don’ts:
- Avoid Simultaneous Submissions for the Same Wedding: Submitting the same event to multiple publications concurrently can lead to blacklisting.
- Don’t Let Ego Drive Decisions: Focus on the value publications bring to your business rather than seeking validation.
Notable Quote:
[54:09] Larkin Kendall: "Don’t do that. Don’t do it."
Challenges with High-End Publications
The conversation delves into the complexities of getting featured in top-tier magazines like Vogue. Larkin shares her personal experience, highlighting the immense pressure and often unfulfilling nature of such high-stakes publishing opportunities.
Key Points:
- Pressure and Expectations: High-end publications can impose stringent requirements, leading to stress and creative burnout.
- Ego vs. Value: Paying for features often serves ego more than providing tangible business benefits.
- Personal Alignment: Success should align with personal values and business goals rather than industry-imposed standards.
Notable Quote:
[24:10] Larkin Kendall: "I would really rather just enjoy it happening naturally. And I think that's an ego thing too."
Inspirational Stories and Final Thoughts
Larkin shares a compelling story about resubmitting work to a publication that initially rejected it, only to have it accepted months later. This anecdote underscores the importance of persistence and the unpredictable nature of publication success.
Notable Quote:
[56:42] Larkin Kendall: "They told me no, but then the person managing their social media saw it and said, 'Yeah, we would love to print this.'"
Conclusion
Episode 418 of The Heart & Hustle Podcast offers a comprehensive guide for photographers aiming to get their work published. Larkin Kendall's insights blend practical strategies with personal anecdotes, empowering listeners to navigate the publishing landscape confidently. The episode emphasizes the importance of balancing client-centric work with publication efforts, ensuring that photographers grow their business authentically without compromising their creative integrity.
Closing Quote:
[56:17] Larkin Kendall: "Bring your dominant energy to it and just get started. No's are not about you."
About the Hosts
Evie McLeod & Lindsay Roman are the dynamic duo behind The Heart & Hustle Podcast. As family and legacy-focused serial entrepreneurs, they empower creative entrepreneurs with practical business tools, lifestyle tips, and motivational truths. Their mission is to help listeners build a legacy-filled life while chasing their God-given dreams.
Connect with Larkin Kendall
- Social Media: @LorkenKendall
- Website: motherphotographer.com
- Online School: The Mother Photographer (often referred to as MoFo School)
This summary captures the essence of Episode 418, highlighting key discussions, actionable strategies, and inspirational stories shared by Larkin Kendall. Whether you're a budding photographer or an established professional, the insights from this episode are designed to guide you towards successful publication and business growth.