Unpopular Opinions with Sandra Coan | A Photography & Business Podcast

We’re opening applications for Sandra Coan Certification is just two weeks!  And so on today’s episode, I’d love to talk discuss the elephant in the room in regards to that program which is, do you need a certification to be a professional photographer?  And are there any benefits to having one?  Is it actually necessary?  So if you are considering joining the Sandra Coan Certification program, or any other certification program, this episode is for you!

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I’m going to let you in on a little secret.  I work with over 150 clients a year, and I don’t do any active marketing for my studio.  So, on today’s podcast, I’m going to tell you exactly how I’m able to get away with that… and I’m going to walk you through the exact method I set up for myself YEARS ago, that makes it possible for me to have a successful photography business WITHOUT doing the marketing busy work!

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One of the big changes to hit the photography industry recently is AI. Recently, I shared a post in one of my FB groups about how I’ve been using it in my business, and got a comment about how it’s going to be the end of the photography industry and we should all beware. So, on today’s episode, I’m going to share my thoughts on AI: how it hurts us, how it helps us, and how to use it wisely in your photography business

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The secret to your success is NOT your technical skill.  It is NOT your marketing know-how either. 
It’s your confidence.
Confidence is the key to making your dreams come true. It is the bridge between wanting and having.  

And on today’s episode, I’m going to share what I’ve learned over the course of my 25 year career about how to get it.

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Welcome to Unpopular Opinions! I'm Sandra Coan, an award-winning photographer, and in this episode, I talk with my friend, Rebecca Hunnicutt.

Rebecca Hunnicutt is a photography educator who teaches photographers at all levels how to turn ordinary locations into extraordinary images with confidence and ease, AND how to further elevate those images with post processing. She's also a lifestyle family and children's photographer based in Portland Oregon capturing joy filled images of families and today's contemporary kids at local preschools.

Join us as Rebecca walks us through her process and we touch on the importance of moving your body, identifying patterns in your work, and finding your signature style.

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There is so much I love about the photography industry.  I love art.  I love what this career has given me.  I love the life I’ve been able to build because of what I do.  And I’ve met some truly creative, wonderful people because of this job.

But like all industries, the photography space has a dark side as well.  It can be very competitive.  And competition can sometimes bring out the worst in people. So, on today’s episode, I want to talk about how to stay above it all, and run an ethical photography business that is inline with you and your values.

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What does it mean to create “authentic” photos as a newborn and family photographer? I can not tell you how many photography groups and forums I have been in where people have talked about authenticity, and specifically how the reason that they don’t work in a studio, or use artificial light is because they want to take “real” photos or authentic images. So, what does authenticity even mean?  And is it possible to get real, authentic photos as a studio photographer?

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Hi friends! On this episode of the podcast, we are talking about imposter syndrome. As a self-taught photographer, I struggled for years with imposter syndrome. Now it it my mission to eliminate imposter syndrome in my communite by building confidence using the Do, Be, Have approach.

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Welcome to Unpopular Opinions! I'm Sandra Coan, an award-winning photographer, and in this episode, I talk with my friend, photographer and mindfulness educator, Kenna Klosterman.

The conversation touches on the challenges of managing expectations and self-judgment and the value of mindfulness practices.

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Whenever I ask photographers what their number one struggle is, the answer is always the same!  Marketing. And I get it!  No one is born knowing how to market themselves.  It’s definitely a learned skill and it can feel intimidating. 

In fact, a lot of people feel so overwhelmed when it comes to marketing that they just choose not to do it, relying on their photos alone to find them clients. And that, my friends, is a really bad idea.  So on today’s episode, I’m going to share 5 tips for marketing your photography business!

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I’ve seen a lot of talk lately on social media and in Facebook groups about the state of the photography industry and whether or not it’s dying.

People are worried about the economy, people are noticing things changing and they are freaked out.  So, on today’s episode, I’m chiming in and sharing my thoughts about the health of the photography industry based on my 25 years of experience. 

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Okay all of you business moms out there, this episode is for you. I started my business in 1999, six years before I had my twins. But I remember being worried about how I was going to manage my business and continue to grow once they were born.I know I'm not alone.  So on today’s episode, I’m going to share what I’ve learned now that my twins are 18 about balancing motherhood and my career! 

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Welcome to Unpopular Opinions! I'm Sandra Coan, an award-winning photographer, and in this episode, I chat with the talented Rachel Larsen Weaver.

We discuss the power of storytelling in photography and the key to long-term success.

Rachel shares her unique approach of combining writing with photography through a weekly newsletter, fostering a deep connection with clients.

And keep listening till the end to hear us share some unpopular opinions of our own!

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Hey, fellow photographers! Struggling to land clients? We've got your back on the podcast today. It's all about nailing that communication game.

Think your portfolio is a bit all over the place? We're diving into that. From having a consistent look to upgrading your tech skills, we're spilling the beans on how to make your work stand out.

But hold up, it's not just about the pics. We're talking about your website, blogs, and even those Instagram captions. Are you addressing what your clients care about? Because that matters!

Feeling a bit lost? No worries! Slide into our DMs or check out our SCC program. We're all about giving you the lowdown on how to level up both your visuals and your words. Your work deserves that spotlight, and we're here to guide you!

And an important announcement: Applications are currently open for Sandra Coan Certification! Applications are reviewed as they come in and there are a limited number of spots so get your application in today.

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Hi friends! A couple of weeks ago I hosted a webinar called From Doubt to Dollars: How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome and Grow your Photography Business in the Process. Between the two days that I gave the webinar, we had a little over a hundred photographers register and we ended up having some great conversations. On today's episode, I'm sharing the audio from that webinar.

And an important announcement: Applications are currently open for Sandra Coan Certification! Applications are reviewed as they come in and there are a limited number of spots so get your application in today.

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Listen friends,  there is a major problem with the way the photography education system is set up and I believe it's hurting you, the photographer.  It’s keeping you stuck.  It’s contributing to feelings of insecurity and imposter syndrome and it’s wasting your hard earned money and your precious time.So on today’s episode I’m going to talk about it.  I’m sharing what the problem is, why it’s keeping you stuck and what I’m doing for my community to break the cycle.

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Hello friends!  Welcome to a brand new year, a brand new podcast and a brand new direction for me, my business and my community!

I made a lot of changes last year that my team and I are now officially sharing with the world. I have basically burned my business to the ground, and like a phoenix, I’m rising up fresh and new from the ashes! So on today’s episode I’m going to tell you what led me to this place. Why I’ve decided to burn it all down, and what I’m building in its place!

Get on the waitlist for Sandra Coan Certification! https://sandracoanstudios.com/waitlist

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Join us on this Halloween-themed episode as we explore the scariest scenario for photographers: low light. Learn how to create your own natural-looking light with strobes and flash and control your light regardless of the season. Plus, we talk about my program, the Missing Link, empowering photographers to master artificial light. It's time to light up your skills and transform your photography!

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I started my photography business in 1999, sort of by accident. Photography had always been something I loved, but I never thought it could be a job—let alone a career. It was just something I played around with on the weekend. Now, 20+ years into my career, I can confidently say I know what it takes to build a long-term career in the photography industry.

In this episode, I share the story of how my business evolved to where it is today and delve into the importance of defining your artistic voice, developing a signature style, and seeking comprehensive mentorship opportunities.

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Join us on the Beyond Natural Life Photography Podcast as we delve into the challenges within the photography education industry. This week I will discuss the pitfalls of the siloed approach to photography education from the perspective of a teacher and a seasoned photographer with 25 years of experience. Discover why mastering just one aspect of photography may not be enough, and learn how I want to revolutionize photography education with my comprehensive Certification Program. We'll chat about the importance of feedback and critique in the learning process and explore the exciting developments in my educational offerings.

This week on the podcast, we're talking imposter syndrome! I'm sharing a conversation that I had on a Six-Figure Studio coaching call this week all about imposter syndrome and how to deal with it and move beyond it.

This is the #1 problem I see for photographers, and I really do feel like I've figured out the solution. If you struggle with imposter syndrome, self-doubt, or lack of confidence, this episode is for you.

Trigger Warning: Pregnancy Loss

Hello friends, this week on the Beyond Natural Light Photography Podcast, I want to have a difficult conversation about pregnancy loss. In my 25 years in business as a maternity, newborn, and family photographer, I have learned you are going to have clients who have experienced or will experience pregnancy loss or infant loss at some point. If you are comfortable, please join me in this important conversation about how we as photographers, and as an industry, can support ourselves and our clients when it comes to preterm labor and pregnancy.

Join me on this episode of 'Beyond Natural Light' where I share my personal journey as a creative with ADHD and dyslexia, facing challenges like imposter syndrome and overwhelm. I discuss the power of the Do, BE, Have model, tailored for creative and ADHD brains, and how coaching and mentoring play a crucial role in empowering creatives to take meaningful steps toward success. Stay tuned for exciting news about the reopening of the Sandra Coan Certification program!

Join me in the Beyond Natural Light Podcast as I share my journey from being a full-time teacher to becoming a successful full-time photographer. This week we'll explore the challenges and personal factors that came with this transition, and discover how to calculate financial goals and attract clients to support your photography business. Learn the significance of mastering light, posing, processing, and honing marketing and communication skills to develop your own signature style. Don't miss the chance to be a part of Sandra Coan Certification—a comprehensive program covering all aspects of running a thriving photography business. Whether you're a part-time photographer or aspiring to quit your day job, this week's podcast offers valuable insights and encouragement to achieve your dream of becoming a full-time photographer. Let's embark on this journey together!

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Hello and welcome to the podcast!  I’m your host, Sandra Coan, and I’m so thrilled you are here today because I want to talk to you about something that is SUPER important, that EVERY photographer needs to know how to do: posing!

Discover the importance of posing in photography as I share my insights and practical tips for working with people of all ages! We'll talk about how mastering posing can enhance your confidence, create consistency in your portfolio, and builds trust with your clients.

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This week's podcast episode explores the challenges of learning new skills. We delve into the frustrations of being a beginner and emphasize the importance of accepting imperfections and embracing the gradual learning process. Join us as we uncover how to be comfortable with not being good at the start.

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Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a part of a photography mastermind? This episode pulls back the curtain and includes interviews with members of my level two mentoring program, Amplified. You'll hear about why they joined, the importance of community, what they learned from fellow members and their biggest takeaways from being in a photography mastermind.

What sets Amplified apart from my group coaching program is that we follow more of a mastermind model. We don't follow a curriculum and we also have a retreat where we help each other to identify and brainstorm specific goals for each individual, and then in our subsequent meetings we support and guide each other, as well as problem solve all of our goals together. Tune in to listen to these conversations and decide whether or not a photography mastermind is right for you!

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The rumors are true: we are closing the doors to The Six-Figure Studio July 1st. This was a very difficult decision to make, but it's my hope that it makes space for more things at Sandra Coan Education—the biggest one being the Sandra Coan Certification Program.

In this episode, I shared more about why we're closing the doors. I also share a snippet from a Six-Figure Studio coaching call where we talked about vulnerability and authenticity in marketing and how to share difficult emotions like grief. This clip really highlights how strong and open The Six-Figure Studio students are, and I'm going to miss our calls together so much. If you'd like to join the program before it closes at the end of the month, click the link below!

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Have you ever wanted to get started photographing newborns with strobes and flash? Using artificial light in your photography business doesn't have to be complicated, harsh or "flashy". You can seamlessly create soft, beautiful light with minimal gear! In fact, the lighting method I created requires just ONE light.

In my opinion, soft light is beautiful in newborn photography. Tune in for my 5 best tips for photographing newborns with strobes and flash!

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I started my photography business in 1999, sort of by accident. Photography had always been something I loved, but I never thought it could be a job—let alone a career. It was just something I played around with on the weekend. Now, 20+ years into my career, I can confidently say I know what it takes to build a long-term career in the photography industry.

In this episode, I share about the changes I've witnessed in the industry, from style to marketing and more, and how I've been able to endure those changes in hopes to inspire you to do the same.

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During a coaching call with my level two mentoring program, Amplified, we had a conversation about some of the harder parts of running a business that don't get talked about enough. Like those moments in your business when you kind of question everything. When you ask yourself, what am I even doing? I could go out and get a job and not deal with all the hardships of being an entrepreneur and running my own business. This conversation was really helpful for the group, so I'm talking about it more in this podcast episode.

I think there's a lot out there in the photography world about living your dreams and I totally believe all of that, but it's also true that it can be really hard and scary. Sometimes it can even feel isolating, and those are very real feelings that a lot of people experience. The good news is, you don't have to run your photography business in isolation! In this episode, I dive into this concept and talk about the importance of community.

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Why does fear often come up during the creative process? This is something I notice the photographers in my group coaching program experience, and I myself am experiencing it as I prepare to launch my new Certification Program. Fear is a very natural and normal part of creativity.

In my coaching program, we talk about clarity. That is the foundation for your brand, and it also gives you great direction in your marketing. And a lot of the time when my students are working through this piece of the program, fear comes up for them. In this episode, I share about why that happens and how to get past it when it does.

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In this episode, I’m sharing more about the Sandra Coan Certification Program that my team and I are working hard to launch in May. Applications will be opened to folks on the waitlist first, and spots may fill up before opening to the general public. If this sounds like something you want to be a part of, sign up for the waitlist at the link below as soon as you can!

The Sandra Coan Certification Program will teach you everything I know about lighting, posing, directing and how to build a solid, proven portfolio as a photographer. Because having a strong portfolio is such an integral part of this program, I'm going to very hands-on with each member. The brand I spent 24 years building in this industry is going to be associated with you and your work once you earn certification, so it's very important to me that your portfolio is held to the same standard I hold my own work to.

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Have you ever felt like elevator pitches are difficult? Crafting an elevator pitch for your photography business doesn't have to be hard. In this episode, I shared a voice memo I recorded on a recent morning walk. I teach the elevator pitch formula I created to make your elevator pitch concise, clear and effective. Tune in to learn my formula and apply it to your own photography business!

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Recently, I found a box of photos I had printed from the beginning of my career. As I was looking at the pictures, I was surprised by how beautiful they were. At the time I took those photos, I was so full of self doubt and I remember thinking my work wasn't good enough. Looking at them the other day made me feel proud and got me thinking about how things might be different if I had known at the time how good my work actually was.

In this solo episode, I shared about insecurity led to under pricing my photography services at the start of my career. Pricing is something many photographers struggle with, so tune in to hear my thoughts and advice when it comes to pricing.

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Recently, I posted a reel about why I don't pose babies in my photography business. It was a touchy subject, as some photographers didn't like that. In this episode, I talk more about why I don't pose babies.

I've been a newborn photographer for over 24 years, and I choose not to pose them because of safety concerns. Now, I know one can be trained to pose babies safely; however, my personal belief has always been that if you have to be trained how not to injure a baby for a photograph, perhaps you shouldn't be doing that pose in the first place. For more about this opinion, tune in to this episode, and if you'd like to learn more about my baby-led posing approach, check out my course Simply Posed below!

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Over the past month, I've had several people ask if I'd be willing to travel for a newborn and/or family session. Each year, I get photography inquiries from all around the world! While I love to travel, it's not always feasible for me to do so. I hate having to say "no" to people who are looking for beautiful maternity, newborn and family photography. For years, I've dreamed of creating a directory of qualified photographers from around the world, whose work I know and trust, to send my photography clients to.

This is one of the many reasons why I'm launching the Sandra Coan Certification Program! When you receive certification, your name and business information will be added to my international directory and referral network. When I, or anyone in the certification program, needs a colleague to send their clients to, you'll be easy to find. Join the Certification waitlist below to be notified when applications open!

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The one piece of advice would I give to photographers just starting out is don’t be afraid to ask for help. I started my photography business as a side hustle and was completely self taught. I felt guilty charging money for my work and always worried that someone would call me out as a fraud.

In this episode, I share a vulnerable story about the one time I was actually accused of copying another photographer. I was new to my business, and it felt like all my fears and imposter syndrome challenges were coming to life. The incident had a huge impact on me, so I hope in sharing this story, it helps you feel less alone. I also share about my new Sandra Coan Certification program coming later this spring and the inspiration behind it. If you're a photographer who struggles with knowing if your work is good enough and steps to take to improve, I invite you to join the waitlist for the Certification program below!

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Cayton Heath of Cayton Heath Photography has been a photographer for over 10 years and specializes in newborn, maternity and family photography. She has always struggled with the business side of what she does and found coaching to be encouraging and insightful.

Cayton is a member of The Six-Figure Studio and also took my courses, The Missing Link and Simply Posed. In this conversation, we cover how she moved and started her business over three times, her successes and the advice she has for fellow photographers!

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I can’t even believe it, but this is the 100th episode of the Beyond Natural Light Photography Podcast! I started this podcast in June 2020 as a way to connect with my community and keep myself busy while my studio was closed, and I’ve learned a lot along the way.

It’s been a really fun and interesting journey, so thank you for being here. For our 100th episode, we’re highlighting some of our most popular podcast episodes! You'll find snippets of our biggest solo and guest interviews. Enjoy, friend!

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In this episode, I sat down with Ariel Cannon of Ariel Cannon Photo, a maternity, newborn, and family photographer based in Los Angeles, CA. She is best known for her natural newborn photography.

Ariel has taken my lighting course, The Missing Link, as well as joined my group coaching program, The Six-Figure Studio, and my level 2 mentoring program, Amplified. I’m excited to share about her successes and the advice she has for fellow photographers! Tune in to this episode to hear our full conversation.

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Let's talk about confidence—why it’s important, how to get it and how to harness its power. I’ve been in business for over 20 years, and one thing I’ve learned in that time is that 90% of success in business boils down to confidence. 

Confidence is the bridge between wanting and having, fear and excitement and self sabotage and self promotion. Confidence is what will take you from undercharging to profitability and from feeling stuck to having a clear path and direction. It is so important! Unfortunately, many of us struggle with it. In this episode, I talk all about my journey with confidence and how growing my confidence led to me growing my business. I also give a sneak peek look inside of my new Sandra Coan Certification Program!

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In this episode, I interviewed Brian Hohmann of Swipe Right Foto! Brian has taken all of my courses, and I was so excited to highlight his photography success. We talked about the value of investing in yourself as a photographer, the importance of knowing your strengths and knowing what to outsource and Brian's advice for new photographers.

Brian is a Boston-based portrait photographer with a full studio located in a Mill Building in Lowell, Massachusetts. He shoots mostly weddings, family, and events but also dabbles in old-school Tin Type photography. Tune in to our conversation together to hear more!

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In this episode, I sat down with Katharina Esteves to talk about mindset blocks and the obstacles many of us photographers face as we grow our business. After tuning in to this episode, you'll walk away with tangible advice for overcoming self doubt and imposter syndrome as a photographer! 

Katharina Esteves, owner of Katharina Esteves Photography, is a documentary family and branding photographer. She is originally Brazilian, but has been living in the beautiful Seattle area for the last 14 years and loves it! Katharina was a part of the very first cohort of my group coaching program, The Six-Figure Studio! Tune in to this episode to hear our full conversation.

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In this episode, I sat down with The Missing Link and Six-Figure Studio graduate, Sonja Damjanoski of Sonja Damjan Photography to highlight another student success story! We chatted all about her business, what she learned in the programs and her advice for fellow photographers.

Not only is she a photographer, but Sonja is also a full-time pharmacist and mom of twin boys. She passionately pursued photography since 2007 but took a short break when her children were born in 2016. She always kept her passion to herself, never sharing her art or aspirations. Seeing covid ravage through her community inspired her to make the most of life and tap back into her creative side—and she found the confidence to share her art. Tune in to our conversation together to hear more!

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Are you a niche photographer that wonders if you're "too niched down" to find clients? This episode is for you! I sat down with Dave Pidgeon, owner of Creative Sports Photography, who provides athlete and team portrait experiences unlike any other in the south central Pennsylvania region. He’s a self-taught photographer and business owner with an affinity for environmental portraiture who loves the challenge of using off-camera strobes to create athlete images.

Dave and I connected right at the start of his business, and he hit the ground running! He joined The Six-Figure Studio and my level-2 mentoring program Amplified, and it's been so much fun watching him grow. Tune into our conversation, where we chat about growing a niche photography business, finding your unique style, building a porfolio and more!

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Are you one of the many business owners that compares yourself to others on loop? Well you are not alone, friend!

In this episode, I interviewed commercial and advertising photographer and industry educator, Alexis Cuarezma. Alexis focuses on photographing athletes and has had his work on the cover of Sports Illustrated six times!

Alexis shared a bit of his story and why self expression is deeply significant to him. We covered topics like artificial lighting and how it gives you so much more freedom as a photographer, consistency, creativity and why interpersonal skills are important as a photographer. Tune in to hear our full conversation together!

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In this episode, I'm so excited to highlight a student success story! I invited Samantha Hardcastle, graduate of my signature lighting program The Missing Link, to chat about all of her business wins and what she's learned along the way.

Samantha is a Colorado based photographer, mother of 5 and lover of diet coke. She’s been in business for 2 years and really enjoys getting to know clients and creating artwork of their loved ones they can cherish. Tune in to our conversation together to feel encouraged, no matter where you find yourself on your photography journey!

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