The Portrait System Podcast: How Tyler Clement Achieved a $1,900 Sales Average

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Portrait System Podcast
• Host/Author: Sue Bryce Education
• Episode: How Tyler Clement Got A $1900 Sales Average Listening To The Portrait System Podcast
• Release Date: March 31, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Portrait System Podcast, host Nikki Klosser welcomes Tyler Clement, a dedicated member of the Sue Bryce Education community, to share his transformative journey from a long-time listener to a successful portrait photographer achieving a remarkable $1,900 sales average. This conversation delves deep into Tyler's personal challenges, strategic business moves, and the pivotal role the Portrait System played in his success.

Background and Personal Journey

Tyler begins by sharing his poignant personal story, marking significant life events that catalyzed his career shift. He recounts the birth of his first son in October 2018, juxtaposed with the devastating diagnosis and subsequent passing of his mother due to stage four skin cancer within the same year.

Tyler Clement [01:05]: "That happening to me is kind of what made me feel like that job that I was in for so long wasn't what I wanted to do with the rest of my life."

These experiences profoundly influenced Tyler, prompting him to reevaluate his life and career aspirations. The loss of his mother and later his father instilled in him a sense of urgency to pursue a passion that would provide both personal fulfillment and financial stability.

Discovery of The Portrait System Podcast

While grappling with anxiety from listening to true crime podcasts during his long-standing full-time job, Tyler sought mental respite through photography. His serendipitous discovery of The Portrait System Podcast marked a turning point.

Tyler Clement [05:12]: "I found her from this podcast. So me being a guest on here, it really does feel like this magnificent, like, full circle moment."

Listening to episodes like Natalia Lalor's, where Sue Bryce discusses pricing strategies, inspired Tyler to consider the feasibility of a profitable photography business even in a small town like Cisco, Texas.

Transition to Photography Business

Motivated by the insights from the podcast, Tyler joined The Portrait System in April 2021. Despite balancing full-time work, school, and parenthood, he dedicated himself to building his studio portfolio focused on women's portraiture.

Tyler Clement [09:42]: "I started building my studio portfolio because this wasn't my introduction to photography."

His initial projects, such as Legendary Ladies and This Is Me, were instrumental in refining his niche and establishing his brand. These projects not only showcased his technical skills but also his ability to connect deeply with his clients, creating meaningful and empowering portraits.

Overcoming Challenges and Marketing Strategies

Operating in a small community presented unique challenges, particularly in convincing clients of the value of high-priced sessions. Tyler addressed this by adopting a storytelling approach in his marketing, sharing personal narratives and emphasizing the transformative experience of his sessions.

Tyler Clement [25:30]: "I try to use storytelling in my posts. I like to share my own story."

He leveraged social media platforms, especially Facebook, to reach a broader audience beyond Cisco. Engaging in local business groups and consistently sharing his projects helped him attract clients from nearby cities like Abilene, Texas.

Project Highlights and Business Growth

Tyler's strategic projects played a crucial role in his business growth. His 40 Over 40 project, for instance, not only resonated with his target demographic but also culminated in an exhibit hosted by an art gallery in Abilene.

Tyler Clement [50:46]: "This last project, 'This Is Me,' was displayed at an art gallery, giving it more life than I had intended."

These projects provided clients with comprehensive experiences, including styling consultations, professional hair and makeup, multiple outfit changes, and instant reveal sessions. Such offerings differentiated his services and justified his premium pricing.

Community and Networking

A significant aspect of Tyler's success was his active participation in The Portrait System community. Through the Facebook group and networking events like the Portrait Masters conference, he built a robust support system and formed valuable connections.

Tyler Clement [46:10]: "I've unlocked, like, two different levels of friends. I've gotten all of these new friends from the Portrait System."

This community not only offered moral support but also facilitated collaborations and referrals, further expanding his client base.

Business Practices: Packages and Pricing

Tyler structured his offerings into tiered packages to cater to varying client needs while ensuring profitability. His pricing strategy, inspired by Sue Bryce's recommendations, evolved from an initial $200 per session to a consistent $1,900 sales average.

Tyler Clement [11:28]: "So right now for like full custom sessions, it's $1900."

He emphasized transparency through discovery calls, ensuring clients were well-informed about pricing and services beforehand. This approach minimized misunderstandings and built trust.

Life as an Entrepreneur

Transitioning from a stable job to full-time entrepreneurship brought its own set of challenges and rewards. While Tyler sometimes felt he worked more hours than before, the flexibility allowed him to spend quality time with his family and pursue personal interests.

Tyler Clement [44:29]: "I do have more flexibility, and I'm able to do things with my kids and kind of make choices on my own without having to check with someone else."

This balance between work and personal life underscored the intangible benefits of entrepreneurship, beyond financial gains.

Final Thoughts and Advice

In wrapping up the conversation, Tyler imparted invaluable advice to aspiring photographers: perseverance is key. He stressed the importance of pushing through initial setbacks and maintaining a steadfast commitment to one's vision.

Tyler Clement [55:15]: "I would say, keep going. Just keep going."

His journey exemplifies the transformative power of education, community support, and unwavering dedication, serving as an inspiration for photographers aspiring to build successful businesses.

Conclusion

Tyler Clement's story is a testament to the profound impact of resilience, strategic learning, and community engagement in achieving entrepreneurial success. Through The Portrait System Podcast, listeners gain not only inspiration but also actionable insights to emulate Tyler's journey towards a thriving portrait photography business.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Tyler Clement [01:05]: "That happening to me is kind of what made me feel like that job that I was in for so long wasn't what I wanted to do with the rest of my life."
• Tyler Clement [05:12]: "I found her from this podcast. So me being a guest on here, it really does feel like this magnificent, like, full circle moment."
• Tyler Clement [09:42]: "I started building my studio portfolio because this wasn't my introduction to photography."
• Tyler Clement [25:30]: "I try to use storytelling in my posts. I like to share my own story."
• Tyler Clement [46:10]: "I've unlocked, like, two different levels of friends. I've gotten all of these new friends from the Portrait System."
• Tyler Clement [11:28]: "So right now for like full custom sessions, it's $1900."
• Tyler Clement [44:29]: "I do have more flexibility, and I'm able to do things with my kids and kind of make choices on my own without having to check with someone else."
• Tyler Clement [55:15]: "I would say, keep going. Just keep going."

This detailed summary encapsulates Tyler Clement's journey, highlighting the interplay between personal experiences and professional growth. His story underscores the essence of The Portrait System Podcast—empowering photographers to achieve transformative success through education, community, and strategic action.