Podcast Summary: The Portrait System Podcast Episode: Realizing your Self-Worth and Jumping from $50 to $2000 per Photoshoot with Emma Burcusel (Re-Release)
Host: Nikki Klosser
Guest: Emma Burcusel
Release Date: December 24, 2024

1. Introduction

In this captivating episode of The Portrait System Podcast, host Nikki Klosser engages in a deep conversation with Emma Burcusel, a successful portrait photographer who has dramatically transformed her business by recognizing her self-worth and restructuring her pricing model. Emma's journey from a $50 photoshoot to commanding $2,000 per session offers invaluable insights for photographers aspiring to elevate their craft and business.

2. Emma’s Journey to Photography

Emma's story begins with her relocation from Romania to the United States in 2005, where she met her husband and embarked on a new life. Initially a dedicated mother without a driving license or another job, Emma discovered her passion for photography while capturing her son's first-year photos.

Notable Quote:

[07:21] Nikki Klosser: “So you had a camera at that point?”
[07:22] Emma Burcusel: “I did have a camera. It was a crossbreed between manual and just one button.”

Emma's initial attempts at professional photography were challenging. She struggled with technical skills and the emotional aspects of connecting with clients, often feeling overwhelmed in a new culture and language.

3. The Turning Point: Valuing Self-Worth

A pivotal moment occurred when a client requested a discounted rate of $50 per photoshoot. During the session, Emma realized she was being taken advantage of, both financially and creatively. This incident forced her to confront her undervaluation of her services.

Notable Quote:

[01:33] Emma Burcusel: “I realized in that moment that it was my fault. It crushed me. I did a terrible job during the photo shoot, but I got home and I told my husband that I will not do this to my family and I raised my prices to $500 for CD from $50.”

This realization led Emma to make a bold decision to increase her prices significantly, marking the beginning of her transformation.

4. Transition to Personal Branding Photography

Emma's shift from traditional family and baby photography to personal branding was inspired by a client's specific request. This transition required her to educate herself on personal branding and tailor her services to meet the unique needs of professionals seeking to enhance their personal image.

Notable Quote:

[28:03] Emma Burcusel: “I did not have a personal branding portfolio or the pricing set. I went online and started researching headshots and personal branding.”

Emma credits Sue Bryce Education for providing the foundational knowledge and confidence needed to navigate this new niche successfully.

5. Building a Client Base with Attorneys and CEOs

Emma's specialization in personal branding led her to work with high-profile clients such as attorneys, judges, and CEOs. Her ability to connect deeply with these clients, understanding their specific needs and helping them project confidence and authority, set her apart in a competitive market.

Notable Quote:

[24:09] Emma Burcusel: “I have been blessed with amazing clients. When they come in, I can help people and make a difference. Especially with people of power, they sometimes just need your help to look confident.”

Emma's dedication to providing personalized experiences resulted in strong client loyalty and extensive referrals, solidifying her reputation in the legal community.

6. Business Growth and Pricing Strategies

After raising her prices, Emma experienced an initial dip in bookings but ultimately saw significant growth. Her confidence and quality of work attracted a clientele willing to invest in her services, demonstrating the importance of valuing one’s work appropriately.

Notable Quote:

[16:00] Emma Burcusel: “My booking fee was $250, and my digital CD was $1,200, averaging $1,450 per session. I moved away from selling individual images to simplify the workflow and better fit my family’s lifestyle.”

Emma continued to refine her pricing, eventually establishing packages that averaged around $2,000 per session, aligning her income with the value she provided.

7. Lessons from Sue Bryce Education

Emma attributes much of her success to the teachings of Sue Bryce Education. By embracing continuous learning and revisiting the basics, Emma enhanced her artistic eye and business acumen, enabling her to adapt and thrive in her chosen niche.

Notable Quote:

[39:10] Emma Burcusel: “I keep going back to the basics and learn more to solve my problems creatively.”

Emma emphasizes the importance of education and mentorship in maintaining growth and avoiding stagnation in one’s photography career.

8. Balancing Business and Family

Throughout her journey, Emma has prioritized her family, ensuring that her business operates in harmony with her personal life. This balance has been crucial in sustaining her passion and preventing burnout.

Notable Quote:

[47:50] Emma Burcusel: “I had to be very honest with my priorities. First, I am a mom, and I want to have a successful family. I had to make my business run to support what I truly wanted from life.”

By structuring her business with efficient workflows and clear communication, Emma successfully manages her responsibilities as a mother and a business owner.

9. Closing Q&A and Final Thoughts

In the concluding segment, Emma shares practical advice for aspiring photographers, emphasizing perseverance and continuous improvement. Her favorite inspirational quote, “When you reach the end of the rope, tie a knot and hang on,” encapsulates her resilient spirit.

Notable Quotes:

[52:00] Emma Burcusel: “Just put one foot in front of the other and you'll make it.”
[51:04] Emma Burcusel: “When you reach the end of the rope, tie a knot and hang on.”

Emma also discusses her future aspirations, contemplating new ventures while remaining committed to her photography business for the foreseeable future.

Key Takeaways

• Value Your Worth: Recognizing and appropriately pricing your services is crucial for sustainable business growth.
• Specialization: Focusing on a niche, such as personal branding, can differentiate you in a saturated market.
• Continuous Learning: Regularly revisiting the basics and seeking education keeps your skills sharp and adaptable.
• Client Connection: Building strong, authentic relationships with clients fosters loyalty and generates referrals.
• Work-Life Balance: Structuring your business to align with personal priorities ensures long-term success and fulfillment.

Emma Burcusel’s transformative journey underscores the importance of self-value, strategic pricing, and authentic client connections in building a thriving photography business. Her story serves as an inspiration for photographers aiming to elevate their craft and achieve financial freedom.

Notable Inspirational Quotes from Emma:

1. “When you reach the end of the rope, tie a knot and hang on.” – (51:04)
2. “Just put one foot in front of the other and you'll make it.” – (52:00)

Where to Find Emma Burcusel:

• Website: emmabercasel.com
• Social Media: Instagram and Facebook (@EmmaBercasel)

Thank you for reading this summary of The Portrait System Podcast featuring Emma Burcusel. For more inspiring stories and actionable tips to grow your photography business, subscribe to the podcast and join the Portrait System community.