The Portrait System Podcast: Episode Summary

Title: Juggling A Successful Portrait Business & Creative Work with Suszi McFadden
Host: Nikki Closser
Guest: Suszi McFadden
Release Date: November 10, 2024

1. Introduction

In this enlightening episode of The Portrait System Podcast, host Nikki Closser engages in a deep conversation with Suszi McFadden, a successful portrait photographer based in Sunnyvale, California. Suszi shares her journey from a corporate marketing role to building a thriving photography business, balancing client work with creative endeavors, and leveraging networking to expand her reach.

2. Suszi McFadden’s Journey from Marketing to Photography

Suszi opens up about her transition from a full-time marketing position at a software company to pursuing her passion for photography following a layoff.

Suszi McFadden [05:26]: "I wish it were 9 to 5. It was more like 7 to 9."

She describes the challenges of shifting from marketing a company to marketing herself, highlighting the pivotal moment when she chose to focus on her side hustle in photography after consulting for two years post-layoff.

Suszi McFadden [05:03]: "I had the privilege of being able to say, what do I want to do? ... It has been my joy and my privilege ever since."

3. Balancing Client Work and Creative Projects

Suszi discusses how she manages her portrait business while dedicating time to creative projects that ignite her passion.

Nikki Closser [10:04]: "And it seems like you've been able to blend those two pieces pretty, pretty well."

Suszi emphasizes the importance of doing what she loves alongside her client work, ensuring her creative spirit remains nourished.

4. The Power of Networking

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the role of networking in Suszi's business growth. She shares her initial reluctance towards in-person networking and how finding the right group transformed her approach.

Suszi McFadden [22:32]: "I've gotten so many clients out of it."

Suszi highlights the effectiveness of joining structured networking groups where everyone has a chance to speak, making it less intimidating and more productive.

5. Collaborating with Stylists

Suszi underlines the value of collaborating with stylists to enhance her clients' presentation in photos. She explains her process of offering wardrobe consultations and how it benefits both photographer and client.

Suszi McFadden [12:33]: "Everybody who comes to me gets one hour of complimentary wardrobe consult with a stylist before their session."

This collaboration ensures clients look their best while maintaining authenticity in their appearance.

6. Engaging in Creative Work and Gallery Shows

Beyond client work, Suszi delves into her creative photography projects, often collaborating with models and abstract artists. She recounts her experience organizing gallery shows, which not only showcased her work but also expanded her clientele.

Suszi McFadden [38:19]: "It absolutely did turn into an opportunity to kind of see and be seen by a different market than it my, where I'm growing."

These creative projects are described as both fulfilling and instrumental in enhancing her portfolio and reputation.

7. Leveraging Email Marketing for Business Growth

Suszi admits that while she excels in in-person networking, she recognizes the need to bolster her email marketing efforts. She discusses strategies like special offers tied to events (e.g., gallery shows) to engage her email list.

Nikki Closser [44:10]: "And that includes booking photo shoots. Definitely."

Both Suszi and Nikki emphasize the importance of timely and targeted email campaigns to convert leads into bookings, stressing the effectiveness of limited-time offers.

8. Equipment and Tools

When asked about essential gear, Suszi highlights the importance of having reliable lighting equipment and quality cameras. She shares her preference for Godox lights and her transition into using constant lights for specific shoots.

Suszi McFadden [56:11]: "I like to control my light. I don't do as well with found light, although I'm starting to play with it a little bit."

This technical insight underscores the role of equipment in achieving desired photographic outcomes.

9. Personal Life and Interests

Outside of photography, Suszi enjoys spending time with her dog and husband, participates in a community choir, and indulges in retouching for fun. These activities provide a balanced lifestyle and fuel her creative energy.

Suszi McFadden [57:21]: "I hang out with my dog and my hubby and I apologize to him for putting the dog first."

10. Advice for Aspiring Photographers

Suszi offers valuable advice to newcomers in the photography field, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the creative process, continuous learning, and allowing time between shooting and editing.

Suszi McFadden [58:48]: "Enjoy the process, to experiment, and to just to know that you grow into it and your style will change and keep learning."

She also recommends taking breaks before retouching to maintain a fresh perspective on her work.

11. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with both Nikki and Suszi reflecting on the key takeaways: the indispensable role of networking, the balance between business and creative passion, and the strategic use of marketing tools to grow a photography business. Suszi's journey serves as an inspiration for photographers aiming to build a sustainable and fulfilling career.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Suszi McFadden [05:26]: "I had the privilege of being able to say, what do I want to do? ... It has been my joy and my privilege ever since."

• Suszi McFadden [22:32]: "I've gotten so many clients out of it."

• Nikki Closser [10:04]: "And it seems like you've been able to blend those two pieces pretty, pretty well."

• Suszi McFadden [58:48]: "Enjoy the process, to experiment, and to just to know that you grow into it and your style will change and keep learning."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Portrait System Podcast offers a comprehensive look into managing a successful portrait photography business while nurturing creative projects. Suszi McFadden's insights on networking, collaboration, and strategic marketing provide valuable lessons for photographers aspiring to elevate their craft and business.

Connect with Suszi McFadden:

• Instagram: @SuzMcFaddenPhoto
• Facebook: Suze McFadden Photo
• Website: suzemcfaddenphoto.com
• Gallery Website: humanessence.photography