A food photography business podcast aimed at providing food photographers with the knowledge and understanding of essential business practices that will allow them to create thriving ventures.
Marta Grabowska and Linda Hermans
Ever wondered what a polished, professional client process looks like from start to finish? In this behind-the-scenes episode of Focus & Flourish, we're walking you through our entire photography client workflow from first pitch to final delivery.We share how our pitching strategies have evolved since our earlier 2024 episode, the mindset shifts that have changed how we connect with clients and why a strong proposal and feedback process can completely transform your client experience. You'll learn how we approach revisions, delivery, and follow-ups and how we use client feedback to spark new opportunities and rebookings.Whether you're building your first client workflow or refining your current one, this episode will help you create a premium, confidence-driven process that turns inquiries into long-term relationships.RESOURCES WE MENTION:Visual Storytelling in Food Photography eBookFocus & Flourish is the podcast for food photographers and creative entrepreneurs who want to build thriving, profitable and purpose-driven businesses. Hosted by professional photographers Marta Grabowska and Linda Hermans, each episode dives deep into the real-world challenges and strategies behind running a successful creative business. From marketing and client pitching to pricing, mindset and workflow.Whether you're a freelance photographer, content creator or creative business owner, you'll find practical insights to help you:Attract and work with your dream clientsMarket your photography business with confidenceBuild a strong personal brand and recognizable visual identityMaster SEO, social media and client communicationBalance creativity with strategy for long-term growthWith honest conversations, inspiring guest interviews and proven business tips, Focus & Flourish, Photography Business Talk helps you turn your creative passion into a sustainable career. Tune in weekly to gain clarity, confidence and actionable strategies to help your photography business flourish.Follow us on Instagram
What does it really take to build a thriving photography business without a huge Instagram following? In this inspiring episode of Focus & Flourish, we sit down with Melbourne-based food, lifestyle and interior photographer Sally Hulse, whose work has been featured in major magazines and alongside iconic chefs like Gordon Ramsay.Sally opens up about her journey from discovering photography to building a business grounded in professionalism, creative identity, and strategy all without relying on massive social media followings.We talk about the power of community, SEO, confidence and staying true to your values while growing at your own pace. Whether you're an emerging photographer or a seasoned creative, this conversation is packed with mindset shifts, marketing tips and real talk about what sustainable success actually looks like.Where you'll find Sally:InstagramPortfolioBlog for PhotographersResources for PhotographersNewsletter for PhotographersRESOURCES WE MENTION:Mailsuite Focus & Flourish is the go-to podcast for food photographers and creative business owners who want to build thriving, sustainable and profitable careers doing what they love.Hosted by Marta and Linda, two professional food photographers and educators, each episode dives deep into the real behind-the-scenes of running a creative business. From marketing and client pitching to pricing, confidence, workflow and mindset.You'll hear honest conversations, inspiring guest interviews, and practical strategies designed to help you:Grow your photography business with purpose and confidenceMaster social media marketing and SEO for photographersDevelop a strong personal brand identityBalance creativity with business strategyTurn your passion for photography into long-term professional successWhether you're just starting your photography journey or ready to scale your creative business, Focus & Flourish is here to help you do it with clarity, strategy and heart.Hit play, get inspired, and start flourishing. One focused step at a time.Follow us on Instagram
Social media can feel like a full-time job. But when used strategically, it can also be one of the most powerful tools for building your photography or creative business. In this episode of Focus & Flourish, we're breaking down exactly what's worked for us (and what hasn't) when it comes to Instagram, LinkedIn, and beyond.From creating a strong personal brand identity to connecting your content with real pitching opportunities, we share practical tips on how to use social media with intention. And without burning yourself out.Whether you're just starting to market your creative work or ready to refine your strategy, this conversation will help you show up online in a way that actually attracts clients.Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. Follow us on Instagram
AI is changing the way we create, work, and run our businesses. And as photographers, that can feel both exciting and overwhelming.In this episode of Focus & Flourish, we're diving deep into how AI is already showing up in our photography businesses, from editing and pitching to content creation and idea generation.But we're not stopping there. We're asking the bigger questions too: Will AI take over creative work? What's the impact on the environment and society? And how can we, as photographers and creatives, build businesses that use AI thoughtfully while still giving back?If you've ever wondered how to embrace AI without losing your artistry, or how to future-proof your creative business in an ethical, inspiring way, this episode is for you.Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. Follow us on Instagram
We're closing out Season 2 by sharing the biggest mistakes we've made in our food photography businesses (so you don't have to).From underpricing and overdelivering to ignoring our network and struggling with work-life balance, we're laying it all out candidly and honestly. These are the things we wish we'd known earlier, and the hard-earned lessons that shaped how we work today.Expect real talk about money, boundaries, productivity, and long-term growth. All that with plenty of takeaways you can apply to your own journey.It's the kind of episode we wish we had when we were starting out. See you there!RESOURCES WE MENTION:Our 'Visual Storytelling & Photoshoot Planning' GuideHow to set your pricingFee negotiation and money discussionsWinning Bigger Deals: The Art of Upselling and NegotiationTHANK YOU to Tether Tools for sponsoring this season of the podcast
We're pulling back the curtain on how we market our businesses to generate leads - no fluff, no gatekeeping.In this episode, we're sharing the marketing strategies that have genuinely worked to bring leads into our food photography businesses. From, Instagram through past projects, alternative social media platforms to targeted pitching a.k.a. reaching out to brands with specific project ideas in mind.We also talk about how optimizing our websites and using location-based SEO helps clients find us organically. Whether you're just starting out or trying to build more consistent leads, we're giving you a real-world look at what's working right now, and how you can make it work for you too.THANK YOU to Tether Tools for sponsoring this season of the podcast
We're firm believers that great photography is more about skill than kit.Creativity, storytelling, and understanding light will always matter more than having the latest gear. But since many of you have asked, we're pulling back the curtain on what we use to get the job done.In this episode, we share the cameras, lenses, and tools we rely on in our food photography work and why we chose them. We're also chatting about our experience with Tether Tools (our Season 2 sponsor!) and how tethering has helped improve our workflow on set.LINDA'S GEARBODY + LENSES: Sony a7c Mark II24-70 mm lens50 mm f/1.890 mm macro35 mm16-35 mm70-200 mmTRIPOD:Manfrotto Befree GT XPROLIGHTS:2 x ZHIYUN MOLUS X100 Pro [Official] Video Light 100W with 2600mAh BatterySOFTBOX:90 cm octagonal soft box MARTA'S GEARBODY + LENSES:Canon EOS 5D Mark IVCanon 50 mm f/1.4 EF USMCanon 100 mm f/2.8 L EF Macro IS USMCanon 24-70 mm f/2.8 L II EF USMK&F Concept Variable Fader ND FilterTRIPOD:Manfrotto MT055 XPRO 3 with ball head MHXPRO-BHQ2LIGHTS:Godox TT685 Speedlight for Canon mounted onto a Bowens mount attached to a light stand Godox Trigger X2T for CanonGodox SL150W continuous video lightSOFTBOX:80x120 cm soft boxTHANK YOU to Tether Tools for sponsoring this season of the podcast
Ever felt like walking away from it all? You're not alone.In this special crossover episode with Rosslyn and Mikyla from the Food Photography Corner Podcast, we're getting real about the moments we almost gave up on our food photography journeys - and how we turned things around.We talk about the early struggles, the biggest challenges (hello, money stress, burnout, and self-doubt), and the powerful turning points that helped us keep going. From mindset shifts to business wins, practical strategies, and the support systems that lifted us up - this is a raw and honest look at the reality behind the glossy images.If you're in need of a reminder that you're not alone - and that growth is still possible - this one's for you.RESOURCES WE MENTION:'The Mountain Is You' by Brianna Wiest Food Photography Corner Podcast (hosted by Rosslyn & Mikyla)Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. Follow us on Instagram
One of the trickiest parts of running a creative business? Explaining your pricing in a way that feels confident, professional, and empathetic.In this episode, we talk about how to educate clients on everything that goes into a photography project - from the planning, creative direction, and logistics, to your workflow, timelines, and what your fee actually includes. We also explore ways to communicate your value through branding tools.And when objections come up? We talk about how to handle them with clarity and grace - whether it's explaining your fee structure or responding when a client says, “That's too expensive for us.”THANK YOU to Tether Tools for sponsoring this season of the podcast
Many photographers struggle to communicate the true value of their work and as a result, their services are often seen as just another expense.In this episode, we explore how to shift that perspective.We discuss why F&B brands need strong visual content, the real pain points creatives help solve, and how impactful imagery can directly benefit a client's business. From improving brand presence to driving sales, we break down the tangible value of what we do and how to confidently price your services to reflect it.THANK YOU to Tether Tools for sponsoring this season of the podcast
We're diving into how to get clients on board with larger, longer-term contracts, and how to upsell your services strategically using practical tools.From identifying the right opportunities to structuring offers that feel like a no-brainer, we're sharing the real tactics that have helped us land our highest-profit jobs to date.If you're ready to boost your revenue and build stronger, longer-lasting client relationships, this episode is for you.THANK YOU to Tether Tools for sponsoring this season of the podcast
Today, we sit down with the incredibly talented Yessica Duque, a commercial food photographer known for her bold visuals, meticulous styling, and empowering presence in the industry.Yessica shares her journey into photography, the moments and mentors that shaped her path, and how she built a thriving business rooted in creativity. We dive into her shooting process, the importance of tethering (shoutout to Tether Tools!), and the tools that help make her worlflow efficient and professional.Whether you're just starting out or scaling your food photography business, this conversation is full of insight, wisdom, and heart.Yessica's Portfolio, Instagram and Podcast.THANK YOU to Tether Tools for sponsoring this season of the podcast
In this episode, we uncover the ins and outs of restaurant photography - from how to break into the industry to pricing, workflows, contracts, gear, and more.We share real challenges we've faced, tips on pitching to the right clients, and what really happens behind the scenes during a restaurant shoot.Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your process, this episode is packed with practical advice and insights.THANK YOU to Tether Tools for sponsoring this season of the podcast
In this open and honest conversation, Marta shares her path into food photography - from early childhood inspirations to leaving her corporate career and stepping into full-time photography, just one month before the 2020 pandemic changed the world.She opens up about her international journey from Poland to the UK and back, and how those experiences have shaped both her perspective and her business.Tune in for a heartfelt episode filled with personal insights, lessons learned, and the power of embracing change.THANK YOU to Tether Tools for sponsoring this season of the podcast
In this candid and inspiring kickoff to Season 2, Linda shares her journey into the world of food photography - from what first sparked her interest to the people and resources that helped shape her business.She reflects on how her work and mindset have evolved, what's changed since the early days, and the lessons she's learned along the way.A must-listen for anyone at any stage of their creative business journey.THANK YOU to Tether Tools for sponsoring this season of the podcast
Join us on the latest episode of Focus & Flourish as we explore the art of blending diverse interests and genres in photography. Many in our industry feel constrained by the notion of mastering a singular niche, like food photography, and struggle to integrate other passions into their work. In this candid discussion, we share our personal experiences and strategies for incorporating varied interests seamlessly into both personal projects and client work. Discover how embracing versatility can enhance creativity and open doors to new opportunities. Whether you're drawn to landscapes, portraiture, or still life, learn how to navigate the intersection of multiple genres to enrich your photographic journey. Tune in to uncover insights and inspiration for embracing the richness of diverse photographic pursuits! Resources we mention in this episode: 'Big Magic' by Elizabeth Gilbert 'The Photography Storytelling Workshop' by Finn Beales Behance Adobe Discover Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. If you'd like to support our podcast, you can contribute by buying us a coffee, you can contribute by buying us a coffee through this link. Your support means a lot! ♥️ Marta's socials: https://foodsbymarta.com/ Instagram YouTube Linda's socials: https://lindahermansphotography.com/ Instagram
In this episode, we delve into the important topic of establishing a robust contract for photography projects. Join us as we explore the components of a comprehensive contract, from setting clear terms on pricing and payment to outlining licensing rights and cancellation policies. Should you consider charging a retainer? What key details should your contract include, such as shoot logistics, deliverables, and post-processing expectations? Tune in as we break down the importance of contract clarity in safeguarding your business and fostering client relationships. Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. If you'd like to support our podcast, you can contribute by buying us a coffee, you can contribute by buying us a coffee through this link. Your support means a lot! ♥️ Marta's socials: https://foodsbymarta.com/ Instagram YouTube Linda's socials: https://lindahermansphotography.com/ Instagram
In this episode we discuss how to cultivate a positive and abundant money mindset. As freelancers and business owners, it's essential to be mindful of your thoughts and their profound influence on your daily actions and energy levels. From understanding the significance of maintaining a 'financial cushion' to crafting a clear action plan with no room for doubt, we provide actionable strategies to propel your financial journey forward. Tune in to gain invaluable insights towards financial empowerment. Resources: ‘Secrets of the Millionaire Mind' by T. Harv Eker Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. If you'd like to support our podcast, you can contribute by buying us a coffee through this link. Your support means a lot! ♥️ Marta's socials: https://foodsbymarta.com/ Instagram YouTube Linda's socials: https://lindahermansphotography.com/ Instagram
Understanding copyright terms, usage rights and licensing fees in the photography and videography industry is essential, so if you've ever struggled to navigate this topic, then this is the episode for you! We talk about why you should never give away your copyright, how to explain licensing to clients and discuss various ways of negotiating usage rights with your clients. Resources: Getty Images Pricing Calculator AOP usage calculator for photographers Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. If you'd like to support our podcast, you can contribute by buying us a coffee through this link. Your support means a lot! ♥️ Marta's socials: https://foodsbymarta.com/ Instagram YouTube Linda's socials: https://lindahermansphotography.com/ Instagram
If you'd like to support our podcast, you can contribute by buying us a coffee through this link. Your support means a lot! ♥️ In this episode, we explore sales techniques for successful fee negotiations and share valuable insights from our experiences in negotiating fee discounts. Discover the significance of a well-prepared fee estimate and gain insights into our practices for creating them. Plus, learn effective strategies for handling discovery calls. Tune in for practical tips on navigating financial discussions with clients. Resources: Chris Do Podcast: https://thefutur.com/podcast Canva for fee estimates: https://canva.com BlinkBid: https://blinkbid.com Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. Marta's socials: https://foodsbymarta.com/ Instagram YouTube Linda's socials: https://lindahermansphotography.com/ Instagram
If you liked the episode, you can support us here ♥️ Setting your photography prices can be one of the most challenging tasks for your business. In this episode, we share our experiences in setting our service fees and provide insights into how to calculate prices. If you've ever wondered about how 'market rates' correlate with your fees, the best approach to calculating prices that leave you motivated, and how to communicate a fee increase to existing or returning clients, be sure to tune in to this podcast episode. Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. Marta's socials: https://foodsbymarta.com/ Instagram YouTube Linda's socials: https://lindahermansphotography.com/ Instagram
Have you ever felt that your own thoughts hold you back from success in your business? If so, join us in our discussion around limiting beliefs that we've experienced, such as imposter syndrome, and how we overcame them. Learn how you can reframe your perception of what's happening in your business to create opportunities for growth and view obstacles as learning experiences. We also share how making connections with other creatives can be a powerful creative outlet as well as a way of forging new friendships. Resources we mention in this episode: 'Big Magic' by Elizabeth Gilbert If you liked the episode, you can support us here ♥️ Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. Marta's socials: https://foodsbymarta.com/ Instagram YouTube Linda's socials: https://lindahermansphotography.com/ Instagram We apologise for the sound quality of this episode. We faced some challenges during the recording, but we assure you that we are committed to improving in the upcoming episodes. Thank you for your patience!
If you liked the episode, you can support us here ♥️ Pitching to new clients is arguably one of the least enjoyable activities within your photography business. In this episode we share our opinions and experiences when it comes to cold pitching, how we've successfully pitched projects to new clients and when, if ever, is a good time to work for free. Plus, we touch on how to attract clients to you via your marketing strategy and online presence. Resources we mention in this episode: https://www.apollo.io https://hunter.io/search https://www.notion.so Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. Marta's socials: https://foodsbymarta.com/ Instagram YouTube Linda's socials: https://lindahermansphotography.com/ Instagram
Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. In this episode, we discuss the significance of your photography portfolio and how the work you showcase there impacts the clients you attract. We also dive into how passion projects can be productive creative outlets that can enhance your portfolio and have the potential to generate work opportunities, as well as develop your creative knowledge and skills. If you liked the episode, you can support us here ♥️ Marta's socials: https://foodsbymarta.com/ Instagram YouTube Linda's socials: https://lindahermansphotography.com/ Instagram
Focus & Flourish is a podcast for food photographers who are looking to start, grow and scale their creative business. In our debut episode, discover how you can build a successful and sustainable creative business by creating multiple streams of income. We discuss the importance of diversifying your revenue streams as a food photographer and dive into various ways to earn money in this industry, from working with brands, restaurants and editorials to producing digital products and educational content for others. If you liked the episode, you can support us here ♥️ Marta's socials: https://foodsbymarta.com/ Instagram YouTube Linda's socials: https://lindahermansphotography.com/ Instagram
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