Podcast
Worth Every Penny Joycast
Hosted by Sarah Petty · EN
How do I build my dream portrait photography business without sacrificing my family and freedom? How do I find photography clients who want more than digital files? What should I charge for my photos? What's the best way to market for photography clients? Am I ready for a studio?
Welcome to the Worth Every Penny Joycast where photographer and New York Times Best-Selling author, Sarah Petty, will answer these questions and more.
With 3 kids under 3, Sarah decided she wanted to make money with photography. But it wasn't as easy as it looked. After a few years and lots of tears, she built her little portrait photography business into one of America's most profitable and this joycast will show you how. It's designed for photographers who want more from their portrait hotography business, more profits, more clients and more free time…and don't want to sacrifice their family along the way.
Each week you'll learn pricing tips, marketing ideas, selling tips and get insights into what's working now. Along with a huge helping of motivation to build your own photography business where your clients say you're worth every penny.
You can find Sarah Petty at:
www.photographybusinessinstitute.com
www.instagram.com/sarah.petty
www.facebook.com/photographybusinessinstitute
44episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
#297: From Hiding Behind Online Galleries to $142,000 in 6 Months: How This 25-Year Photographer Finally Found Her System
Jan 700:39:00Tap to summarizeShe had a studio. She knew in-person sales. But after 25 years, Elissa was hiding behind online galleries, over-editing 40 images per client, and barely scraping $700 per session. It felt easier—until it didn't. This is the story of how she rebuilt her confidence, trusted a system, and hit $142K in just six months. Meet Elissa Bean, a seasoned photographer who almost walked away from her craft. Burned out and disconnected, she believed the lie that digitals were the only way forward. But when she joined Boutique Breakthrough, everything changed. She found her voice, her value, and a business that truly lit her up again. ● How Elissa rewired her introverted fears and started booking $3K+ clients ● The mindset shift that helped her stop "hiding" and start leading with heart ● Why fewer sessions + deeper relationships = more joy and way more profit If you've ever wondered if it's too late to pivot—or if you're quietly burned out—Elissa's story will give you the hope and roadmap to start fresh. This episode is the permission slip your future self will thank you for. RESOURCES: Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos: https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756
Transcribe →#262: The 4 Photography Business Blinders: What You're Not Seeing - Part 1
May 6, 2025Tap to summarizeYou've spent years building a photography business: the bookings, the workflow, the income. But what happens when the version of success you built no longer aligns with the life you're living? This week on the Joycast, Kayla Brint opens up about the unraveling that led her to step away from her booming portrait studio. Not because she failed, but because she changed. Join us as we discuss: The role grief, motherhood, and burnout play in reshaping your definition of success Why trusting your gut can lead to a more meaningful career How to know when it's time to pivot, even if everything looks great on the outside If you're craving permission to make a change or lead your passion with deeper intention, Kayla's story will meet you right where you are. RESOURCES: Show Notes: Click here. Episode Transcript: Click here. 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos: https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756
Transcribe →#253: 2024’s Big Wins: 3 New $100K Photographers Share Their Top Secrets to Breaking 6 Figures
Mar 4, 202500:21:29Tap to summarizeHave you ever wondered what separates the photographers making six figures from the ones struggling to book clients? In this week’s Joycast, I’m pulling back the curtain on 3 photographers who hit $100K for the first time and they’re sharing EXACTLY what made the difference in their businesses. Listen now to get the scoop on: The #1 mindset shift that helped them push past fear and take action. The simple daily habits that kept them on track to hit six figures. The biggest mistakes they stopped making (so you can avoid them too!) These photographers aren’t unicorns. They’re just like you. The only difference? They committed to a couple key things and it worked. If you’re ready to stop playing the trial-and-error game and finally build the photography business of your dreams, click play now! RESOURCES: WORTH EVERY PENNY JOYCAST SHOW NOTES: https://photographybusinessinstitute.com/podcast/episode-253 SHOW TRANSCRIPT: Click Here BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.joyofmarketing.com/boutiquebreakthrough INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.joyofmarketing.com/freebook FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/thejoyofmarketing LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756 #201 - How a Florida Educator Transformed Her Photography from Dabbling to $3,200 Orders: Turning Her Back Burner Hobby into Real Money
Transcribe →#252: Dyslexic, Determined, and Thriving: How Hosanna Built Her Photography Business
Feb 26, 202500:21:42Tap to summarizeDyslexic, Determined, and Thriving: How Hosanna Built Her Photography Business Have you ever felt like the odds were stacked against you? Like you didn’t have the right background, connections, or experience to build a successful photography business? In this week’s Joycast, I’m sitting down with Hosanna Hale. She’s an Anchorage-based outdoor portrait photographer. Despite starting with no website, no pricing, and only two paid shoots under her belt, she went on to land multiple high-dollar clients! We discuss: How Hosanna went from charging $50 for friends to landing a $14K sale The mindset shift that helped her take action Why investing in one thing helped her grow faster than a traditional photography degree If you’ve ever doubted whether you have what it takes to build a profitable photography business, Hosanna’s story will give you the confidence boost you need! RESOURCES: WORTH EVERY PENNY JOYCAST SHOW NOTES: https://photographybusinessinstitute.com/podcast/episode-252 SHOW TRANSCRIPT: Click Here BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.joyofmarketing.com/boutiquebreakthrough INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.joyofmarketing.com/freebook FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/thejoyofmarketing LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756 #201 - How a Florida Educator Transformed Her Photography from Dabbling to $3,200 Orders: Turning Her Back Burner Hobby into Real Money
Transcribe →#251: The 5 Minute Networking Strategy for Meeting New Photography Clients Without Adding More to Your Plate
Feb 18, 202500:17:13Tap to summarizeIf you’re like most photographers, you’re juggling two of the most rewarding (and sometimes overwhelming) jobs in the world… Being a photographer and a parent. There’s no perfect handbook for either, but I’ve learned a thing or two about balancing both without feeling like you’re failing at one or the other. In this week’s Joycast, I’m sharing advice to help you switch gears, get more done, and show up fully for your family and your photography business! You’ll learn: How to create a workspace that helps you focus (even in a house full of chaos!) The secret to setting boundaries so you can actually work during work hours A simple habit that helps you shift from work mode to family mode without the stress You don’t have to choose between being a great parent and a successful photographer. You can have both! This episode will show you how to create structure, protect your time, and run your business with more joy and less guilt. RESOURCES: WORTH EVERY PENNY JOYCAST SHOW NOTES: https://photographybusinessinstitute.com/podcast/episode-251 SHOW TRANSCRIPT: Click Here BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.joyofmarketing.com/boutiquebreakthrough INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.joyofmarketing.com/freebook FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/thejoyofmarketing LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756 #201 - How a Florida Educator Transformed Her Photography from Dabbling to $3,200 Orders: Turning Her Back Burner Hobby into Real Money
Transcribe →#250: The 5 Minute Networking Strategy for Meeting New Photography Clients Without Adding More to Your Plate
Feb 11, 202500:16:12Tap to summarizeNetworking. Just hearing the word makes you cringe, right? You’re already juggling a full-time job, raising kids, and managing a million other responsibilities… How are you supposed to squeeze in business networking, too? But what if I told you that you don’t need more time to mingle? You just need a better strategy! On this week’s Joycast, I’m sharing my simple, 5-minute networking strategy that helps you turn everyday interactions into golden business opportunities (without awkward small talk, forced conversations, or spending hours at suit and tie events.) Join me as we discuss: How to naturally connect with potential clients in your daily routine The #1 mistake photographers make when trying to build relationships The small mindset shift that will make networking feel effortless How to get people excited about your work without feeling salesy Plus: How I built a six-figure photography business through simple conversations The secret to making potential clients ask you about your photography services A step-by-step challenge to help you start networking today If you’re tired of waiting for clients to find you and want advice that actually works (without taking over your life), this episode is for you! RESOURCES: WORTH EVERY PENNY JOYCAST SHOW NOTES: https://photographybusinessinstitute.com/podcast/episode-250 SHOW TRANSCRIPT: Click Here BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.joyofmarketing.com/boutiquebreakthrough INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.joyofmarketing.com/freebook FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/thejoyofmarketing LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756 #201 - How a Florida Educator Transformed Her Photography from Dabbling to $3,200 Orders: Turning Her Back Burner Hobby into Real Money
Transcribe →#249: The Red Flags You Can't Ignore: How to Avoid Nightmare Photography Clients
Feb 4, 202500:18:23Tap to summarizeHave you ever booked a client then immediately felt that little knot in your stomach… In this week’s Joycast, I’m revealing the 3 types of red-flag clients that can drain your energy, steal your joy, and make you question why you started your photography business in the first place. You’ll learn: 🚩The one thing chronic client complainers say 🚩 Why “rock throwers” are the sneakiest energy vampires (and how to sidestep them.) 🚩How to avoid getting caught up in drama (and keep your business FUN!) You don’t have to say yes to everyone. You deserve to work with clients who light you up and value what you do. So if you’ve ever second-guessed a booking, this episode is your permission slip to trust your gut! Grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and let’s talk about how to protect your happiness while growing your photography business. RESOURCES: WORTH EVERY PENNY JOYCAST SHOW NOTES: https://photographybusinessinstitute.com/podcast/episode-249 SHOW TRANSCRIPT: Click Here BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.joyofmarketing.com/boutiquebreakthrough INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.joyofmarketing.com/freebook FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/thejoyofmarketing LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756 #201 - How a Florida Educator Transformed Her Photography from Dabbling to $3,200 Orders: Turning Her Back Burner Hobby into Real Money
Transcribe →#248: 8 Creative Ways to Photograph Portraits Without A Studio This Winter
Jan 28, 202500:20:44Tap to summarizeBraving freezing temperatures without a studio can feel like a huge challenge for photographers, but what if I told you it’s actually a secret weapon… In this week’s Joycast, I’m sharing 8 creative ways to keep your calendar full in the chilliest weather. Here's a sneak peek: Why not having a studio isn't the end of the world (and how you can use it to your advantage.) Tips for turning everyday spaces into stunning, boutique-worthy backdrops. How to stay creative and confident (no matter the weather.) The one shift that will make you rethink how you approach studio spaces entirely. If winter weather has you feeling stuck, grab a hot cup of tea (or coffee) and join me for some fresh ideas! ❄️📸 RESOURCES: WORTH EVERY PENNY JOYCAST SHOW NOTES: https://photographybusinessinstitute.com/podcast/episode-248 SHOW TRANSCRIPT: Click Here BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.joyofmarketing.com/boutiquebreakthrough INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.joyofmarketing.com/freebook FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/thejoyofmarketing LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756 #201 - How a Florida Educator Transformed Her Photography from Dabbling to $3,200 Orders: Turning Her Back Burner Hobby into Real Money
Transcribe →#247: Why Hiring a Wedding Photographer Made Me Rethink Everything About Pricing
Jan 21, 202500:17:55Tap to summarizeHave you ever thought about what it feels like to be the client instead of the photographer? On this week’s Joycast, I’m pulling back the curtain on a personal experience: my daughter’s wedding. For once, I wasn’t the one behind the lens, and let me tell you… It gave me a whole new perspective on what we do as photographers. Here’s a sneak peek: The whirlwind of planning a budget-friendly wedding in six months (Did I mention it was during hurricane season?!) What it was like to let go of my camera and savor every moment of the big day as a mom. The emotions of seeing the final photos and video (and how they became the most priceless part of the entire event!) Plus: A fresh perspective on what it’s like on the client's side of photography. The truth about digital files and why printed albums and artwork become lifelong treasures. What this experience taught me about the emotional journey our clients go through when they invest in photography. This week’s episode is a reminder of why what we do as photographers is so much bigger than just “taking pictures.” Photography is about love, legacy, and creating something people will treasure forever. RESOURCES: WORTH EVERY PENNY JOYCAST SHOW NOTES: https://photographybusinessinstitute.com/podcast/episode-247 SHOW TRANSCRIPT: Click Here BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.joyofmarketing.com/boutiquebreakthrough INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.joyofmarketing.com/freebook FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/thejoyofmarketing LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756 #201 - How a Florida Educator Transformed Her Photography from Dabbling to $3,200 Orders: Turning Her Back Burner Hobby into Real Money
Transcribe →#246: Can the Boutique Business Model Work For Men?
Jan 14, 202500:51:21Tap to summarizeEver wonder if the boutique photography model works just as well for men as it does for women? It’s a question that came up in my recent Boutique Breakthrough workshop, and in this week’s Joycast, we’re shedding light on the truth. Here’s a sneak peek: How Ryan Vinson leverages sports photography and auctions to dominate his local senior market (with 95% of his clients being boys!) Adam’s journey to raising his prices and building a profitable boutique business. Andy’s story of escaping the shoot-and-burn model to create a year-round income while staying present for his family. Reggie’s creative networking strategies (like turning team banners into marketing gold.) Plus: The unique challenges male photographers face and how they’re overcoming them. Real-life examples of how connection, visibility, and networking make all the difference in boutique photography. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for fresh strategies to market your photography, this episode is packed with inspiring stories and actionable tips to grow your boutique photography business. RESOURCES: WORTH EVERY PENNY JOYCAST SHOW NOTES: https://photographybusinessinstitute.com/podcast/episode-246 SHOW TRANSCRIPT: Click Here BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.joyofmarketing.com/boutiquebreakthrough INSTAGRAM – DM me “Conversation Starters” for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.joyofmarketing.com/freebook FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/thejoyofmarketing LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756 #201 - How a Florida Educator Transformed Her Photography from Dabbling to $3,200 Orders: Turning Her Back Burner Hobby into Real Money
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