In this episode, we will be chatting about a TikTok I posted recently, basically, it seems like 2025 (and even 2026) is feeling super slow for a lot of photographers. Not just me! So if you’re feeling behind, unsure, or discouraged right now, let this episode remind you that you’re definitely not the only one. We also dove into tons of listener-submitted questions, covering everything from how to build your website from scratch, to how to stop comparing yourself to other photographers online, to figuring out pricing when you’re still in high school! Come read more about this photography advice submissions episode!
Listen to the full podcast on Spotify or watch the episode on YouTube!
Photography Advice Section #1
Submission: I need help creating a website — I have no clue where to even start and it’s so overwhelming for me.
Cassidy: You came to the right place. Basically, I say this a lot on the podcast, but I’ll say it again: If you’re building your website yourself and not hiring a designer, use Showit. It’s drag and drop, super user-friendly, and honestly the best for creatives. Start by buying a Showit template (from their store, Etsy, or from a designer you love). Then plug in your branding, logo, fonts, and colors. Make sure you include:
- A homepage
- Investment page (mine is the most-clicked!)
- About page
- Contact form (use Honeybook or Dubsado)
- Blog or gallery page showing off full sessions (not just a random portfolio grid)
If you’re lost, peek at my website. Don’t copy it, obviously but see what kinds of pages photographers typically include. That’ll help a lot!
Submission: Can my clients combine a couples session and senior photos? It feels like I’m getting ripped off.
Cassidy: No, you’re not overreacting. It’s actually kind of rude for someone to expect two totally different sessions for the price of one. My advice? Make it clear from the beginning, in your emails and contract what the session includes. If it’s a grad session, say something like “This is for grad photos only.” If they ask to bring their partner, fine. But tell them you’re only taking a few shots. And if someone wants to add on something different? Charge for it. $250, $500, whatever. Make that an add-on. Don’t let people walk all over you.
Photography Advice Section #2
Submission: How do I build a personal brand online and start putting myself out there?
Cassidy: First of all, YES to personal branding. Best way to get clients.
Here’s how you start:
- Gradually start showing your face on your page (don’t shock your followers)
- If you post behind-the-scenes, turn the camera on YOU for a second and react
- Add voiceovers! Talk about what you’re doing, this builds trust and connects YOU to the final result
Being YOU is your superpower. No one else can do that. So use it.
Submission: I relocated and 2025 is so slow. All I see online is photographers saying they’re fully booked. I feel behind. My engagement sucks too.
Cassidy: So many of you are feeling this. First of all, let’s talk comparison. People love to post when things are going well. But you have no idea what they’re charging, how long they’ve been doing it, if they’re even telling the truth, so stop comparing. That’s not your journey.
If you want more bookings and your engagement is low:
- Don’t rely only on Instagram
- Blog and work on your SEO
- Run ads (Meta or Google!)
- Create viral BTS content
- Join Facebook groups
- Meet people IRL (try Pilates… for real)
- Work on your client experience
You’re not in Instagram jail. You just need to keep improving your content and stay consistent. Sometimes it’s not you, it’s the algorithm. But sometimes it is your content. Don’t be afraid to adapt.
Submission: How do I stay motivated as a photographer when things are slow and I’m feeling imposter syndrome?
Cassidy: When I feel unmotivated, I create something I LOVE. That always sparks things again for me. You said your self-portraits didn’t go well. Try again. You don’t quit after one time. Plan a styled shoot. Photograph something just for you. Force yourself to pick up the camera. That’s what helps. And remind yourself: if YOU don’t do it, no one else will. Simple as that!
Photography Advice Section #3
Submission: I’m in high school and charging $40 for theater headshots, but people say that’s too much. How can I make more profit?
Cassidy: Okay, I used to do hair in high school. I charged $50 for prom. People still booked me. So if your work is good, people WILL pay. That said $15 profit after studio rent? No. Ditch the studio. Use a wall, shoot outside, invest in a backdrop. Charge what you’re worth and find ways to cut your overhead. Also: high schoolers might not have money, but their parents do.
Submission: I’m new to the luxury wedding world and have to make a timeline for the first time. Help!
Cassidy: Here’s what I do:
- Work backwards. Start with the end time (ex: sparkler exit at 10pm, you’re booked for 8 hours = start at 2pm)
- Pad in extra time for details, getting ready, and portrait time
- Hair and makeup? Never in your control
- Portrait time? That’s where you can make up for delays
And keep in mind: First looks, PJ pics, getting dressed, they usually only take about 15–20 minutes. Family photos? They take longer!
Submission: I only have a 50mm lens. What should my second lens be for weddings?”
Cassidy: Zoom lens! Always. You can’t be up in everyone’s face the whole ceremony. Get something longer, like a 70–200mm or 24–70mm. You’ll thank me later.
Submission: No one will let me second shoot. I’ve tried everything.”
Cassidy: You’re not alone! Here’s what I recommend:
- Don’t try to connect with top photographers who already have second shooters
- Find people at your level
- Make friends, not contacts
- Trade second shooting opportunities with other beginners
- Build your own styled shoots and get experience that way
Also: Referrals. It only takes one friend recommending you to another. That’s how second shooting gigs happen!
Photography Advice Section #4
Submission: I’m scared to shoot real clients I don’t know. What if they don’t like me or my work?”
Cassidy: You will run out of friends to photograph. That’s just how this works. Start seeing strangers as people you just haven’t met yet. Get to know them at the shoot. Ask questions. Become friends while you’re photographing them, that’ll help with nerves. And if you’re scared they won’t like your work? Don’t pre-reject yourself. Keep doing your best. You won’t grow unless you push through the scary parts.
Submission: I’m trying to break into luxury weddings and have one set of second shooter images to show. Is it okay to post those and use them to book more?
Cassidy: Yes! As long as the lead photographer is okay with it, post away. Just make sure to tag them. If you want to book more luxury weddings, you have to show them. Clients won’t book what they can’t see. Curate a shoot, use those photos in your portfolio, use the word “luxury” in your SEO and captions, and be consistent!
Show Notes:
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