am i right?
You got into this industry because you have a passion for telling stories and creating art via your
camera lens. Yet, the world of events is changing. People aren’t exactly flocking to weddings or
parties. And marketing ( aka, justifying ) your photography services to potential clients has never
been more of a fight.
It’s enough to make you wonder if you’ll ever again experience the joy, financial freedom,
and time flexibility you dreamt of when you first became a photographer…
Nobody said this photography thing would be easy.
Is the risk of working for yourself in an unsettling economic climate worth the stress of the unknown? Is the downswing in clients worth your eagerness to show up? Is the time put into sessions, editing, client coordination, and planning worth the energy it takes to produce high-quality work... especially these days?
Except, in that pursuit of freedom, you’ve found yourself
more stressed than ever to connect with dream clients and make a decent income.
Oh, and to actually create work you’re proud of. That would be nice, too.
You can’t seem to crack the code on how to build a photography business that grows steadily, where incredible clients are easy to find and the work inspires you every single day.
You put in the time. You want more than anything to hit
your stride. And you just wish you knew when it’s supposed to get any easier.
You know the sacrifice required to build a business out of your creative passions, and you’re willing to put in that work. You have put in that work. And you’ve been showing up day after day: promoting your services on social media to anyone who will listen, editing images for hours on end the way you *hope* your clients will love (even though you’re not even proud of ‘em), and hanging out in Facebook groups to network and try to gain exposure.
You’ve spent who-knows-how-many hours studying other photographers—their work and their online presence—to try to replicate whatever magic touch they’ve somehow developed to get such great exposure and clientele...
+ “Am I really cut out for this?”
+ “What if this never works?”
+ “What am I going to do if I can’t figure it out?”
+ “How does that photographer always get perfect clients?”
+ “How does her editing look so good ?”
+ “How did she get such a large following on Instagram?”
Even though what those successful photographers are doing might seem so right and
so very alluring from where you stand, you can’t copycat their ways and find your own success.
Any of those sound a little too familiar?
yikes!
5.
4.
3.
2.
1.
The whole “do what’s working for her” thing will plow you down a road of disappointment, one that leads to:
If your focus is on how to do what everyone else is doing—on the methods of the so-called “more talented ” or “popular ” photographers you follow—you’ll never find true alignment (or any kind of real success) with your work.
The trick isn’t in duplicating what another photographer with 100K followers is doing with her edits or her social media posts. It’s not following suit and modeling your own business
piece-by-piece after hers.
Because (and I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but…) this approach will only land you in a worse position than you’re already in: unsatisfied, unaligned, and totally uninspired to keep going.
More than that, copying what another photographer is doing isn’t a real business strategy.
You’re always going to feel trapped if
you’re pursuing someone else’s vision.
here's the thing
What the ~shiny success stories~ on social media happen to leave out is that building a
rock-solid photography business isn’t just about enjoying taking photos, knowing how to
write good IG captions, and getting that perfect edit.
Nooo, no, no. That’s the bare minimum and a good starting point, but building a business that
grows with you , that brings in your dream clientele , that survives economic strain ,
and that actually fulfills you from your head to your soul … That takes intention. Grit.
Strategy. Inner work.
And I have a feeling you already have everything in you to make it happen. It might take some excavating, but I promise it’s within your reach if you’re willing to do the work.
And, it’s not your fault you haven’t found your spark just yet. Key word? Yet .
Just because you’re not sure how to take your photography business to the next level doesn’t mean you’re not capable of building something incredible .
want to know a secret?
My friend, you need to be able to clearly communicate why you get out of
bed in the morning, why you’re doing what you’re doing, and why you’re
passionate about telling people’s stories.
People don’t just buy what you do. They buy the why behind how you actually do it.
See, the best photographers know how to own their story as much as they know how to handle a camera and interact with their clients.
And uncovering your ‘ why ’— the foundational motivation behind what you want to do
and build with your business —will help you put aside your fears, find your voice, and
ultimately connect with your ideal clients time and time again.
Oh, and make more steady income with rates you actually WANT to charge
Find ways to push yourself creatively
Run each photoshoot smoothly & confidently
Use social media in a way that’s authentic & eye-catching
Curate a powerful portfolio
Create art that is meaningful and true to YOU
Repel those that don’t fit with your style (aka, the clients that drain you)
Attract & book them (repeatedly, and with ease)
Uncover how to best serve them
Nail down who your ideal client is
Own your story and discover your unique voice
it can change everything.
If you make honoring your ‘ why ’ the core value that motivates all of your behaviors and business
decisions...
And That's a Gift.
And they’re so in tune with their own story that their direction and
strategies to reach their versions of success are unshakable.
Essentially? They’re not interested in the noise , and they’ve figured out how to stay in their own lane because they understand that only they can offer what they offer.
But in the world of social media, it’s hard to even get noticed among the sea of fabulous
photographers out there, let alone get picked for the jobs you truly desire.
You can’t help but compare yourself to someone else who just seems to get it . (And whose rates
and clientele are drool-worthy enough to make you desperate to know what they did
differently to charge that much and get those kinds of clients.)
And, friend, I want to show you that way.
One that doesn’t suck all of your time, drain your emotional capacity, and leave you burnt out at the end of every day.
But along the way, you’ve had to take on projects that're so dull your eyes
cross, and work hours that are slowly killing you in order to just keep your
head above water.
This isn’t the dream you imagined… But, like, what’s the alternative?
Go back to work at a mind-numbing 9-to-5 to support your photography as a side hustle? Pick up a part-time job at a coffee shop? Put your dreams on hold completely until your kiddos are older and you can dedicate even more time and even more energy to something that you’re crossing your fingers will *eventually* work out?
And then unwrapping them in a way that inextricably connects you with
your dream clients.
From there, you can begin to market yourself authentically, compose photoshoots that light you
up, and book work that you’re excited about on a regular basis (and that pays what you’re
worth).
Because who in the world has time for all of that? Not me, and not you.
It doesn’t need to take any more of your precious bandwidth. It doesn’t have to come with a bunch of complicated to-dos and way-too-complicated strategies you’ve never heard of.
That’s why I created this program:
To help photographers like you discover your signature style and build a business that not only lasts, but that fills up your soul (and your bank account) for years and years to come.
A six month coaching program with a digital course included, for both new and experienced photographers that shows you how to own your story , develop a photography style unique to you , build a timeless brand , attract the clients you’ve always dreamed of , and market yourself brilliantly ( without the stress ). This is the most simplified path to take back your inspiration, make more money, and build a photography business that stands the test of time.
introducing...
And you do need all of that (okay, maybe not the identical presets), on top of the steps that really
make a photography business stand out and last.
But, most resources don’t tell you how to get to the heart of a successful photography
business . Most resources don’t encourage you to do any kind of self-reflection or to work on
yourself, so that you can break free from limiting beliefs and create photography and a business
that is 100-percent true to YOU.
Just teach how to work with clients and run a smooth photoshoot.
Show you how to slap on a preset that looks just like that big-name photographer’s work.
Only tell you how to operate the business side of things.
"I highly highly recommend her course because it touches on different aspects of the business, not just one thing."
Kaitlyn
"Think Katie's work is just for women? Think again. I'm a man (obviously), and my business tripled, too!"
Joshua
hit play!
You’ll get weekly 60-minute group calls with me to go through the course materials together and have plenty of time for Q+A! (Psssst… This sweet little bonus is worth the cost of the course alone… and then some.)
bonus!
A BRAND NEW bonus just for you! A complete training on Instagram REELS with Grace T Photography. She is a master with reels and will share everything she knows with you, so that you can get started making reels that will profit your business!
You’ll also receive Instagram post ideas to share your work and grow your following, email
templates for client communication, and posing cue cards to help you and your clients
always have fresh ideas for what to do in shoots. Plus, you’ll be added to the program’s
exclusive & invaluable Facebook group , full of other growing photographers eager to
connect, exchange ideas, and answer your questions as a trusted community.
Six modules of engaging & actionable lessons, tools, and exercises to discover your ultimate why , overcome your fears , own your story , set up a marketing plan , and build a photography business that evolves with you , your style, and your needs as an artist. Unlike other photography courses, the Art + Heart Photography Academy focuses on tapping into your unique background and story , and building your business and individual photography style from there.
Once you have your business up and running, one of the most powerful and essential tools to expand your reach and draw in dream-worthy clients is social media. How you show up online matters, and I’ll teach you ways to stand out, be authentic, share your work, and connect with families, individuals, and influencers so that you can continue building a portfolio you’re proud of.
Social media often gets overcomplicated, what with all the changing algorithms and new-and-improved best practices people tout… But I promise to show you my simplified, tried-and-true methods that WORK when it comes to building a social presence that’s effective, easy, and that doesn’t take over your life. You’ll feel confident showing up online and engaging with future clients in a smart way.
The foundations of a great photo start with knowing the basics of how to take an amazing picture… but confident editing skills can take your images from great to “this belongs in Vogue.” Except, figuring out your own special brand editing style? That can take years of trial, error, and frustration on the road to discovering your signature touch—but not anymore. You don’t have to covet your favorite Instagram photographer’s editing style anymore, either.
Inside this module, I’ll break down the steps you can take to finally uncover your own beautiful, one-of-a-kind style of editing, and do so in a way that’s consistent and timeless. Plus, I’ll share some of my very own editing hacks and tricks that make the process so much smoother (and quicker), so you can put the final touches on your galleries, send them off to clients, and get back out there with your camera, making photo magic.
What good is using your art to fuel a business if the business isn’t sustainable? My aim is to
show you how to use your creativity to create a business model that grows and runs with you,
instead of running you into the ground.
You’ll learn how to create a captivating photography
website, how to run seamless marketing campaigns, and how to communicate with clients clearly so that you can work together seamlessly.
Whether you’ve done two shoots or 200, there’s always more to learn about putting together a well-organized, strategic, and fun photoshoot. I’ll share my signature process for family shoots, my pre-shoot routine, how I map out a shoot, my tips for setting client expectations that form strong relationships, and how to let go of fear and cultivate confidence.
Just because you’re not in front of the camera doesn’t mean it’s any less intimidating to be the director of a photoshoot. I’ll share tactical ways to banish the fear that can often cripple creatives, like perfectionism, self-doubt, shame, and guilt. With my shoot strategies (both mental and tangible), you’ll be able to handle any photoshoot twists, turns, and snafus that come your way… And trust me, in the world of photography, there are plenty.
No two photography businesses look the same, and it all comes down to branding. In Module
Two, you’ll learn how to create a brand that’s true to you in order to attract clients you have
chemistry with and whose needs only you can meet. You will begin to see how marketing,
branding, tone of voice, expectations, and pricing all coincide to attract your dream clients AND
repel those who don’t fit into your ideal client avatar.
We’ll also walk through everything you need to know about building a portfolio that people want
to talk about, how to start working with influential people to grow your brand, and how to
validate your potential clients through your existing work. The goal? For your dream clients to
feel seen, heart, and validated, even before they ever agree to work with you. How to get there?
I’ll show ya.
In order to communicate your client’s story powerfully and uniquely, you must begin to
understand your own story. Understanding your story and using it to frame your art is the only
path to authentic originality. Your story + their story = art. In this module, you’ll discover your
individual voice, your ‘why,’ and your signature photography style, and how to use that medley
to attract the dreamiest of dreamy clients.
Using your personal experiences combined with the creative touchpoints that make your work
stand out, you’ll begin to learn how to integrate your background and core values into your art.
We’ll walk through visual themes, creative alignment, and the power of owning and sharing your
story, so that you can begin finding and booking clients who you connect with on a foundational
level.
Breakdown
bonus!
If you’re avoiding Reels like you avoid an ex you see at the supermarket, fear no more. The fabulous Grace T is here to grace us with all of her knowledge about Instagram Reels and how to rock them. Reels are a new video medium on Instagram and, in case you’ve been hiding under a rock, they are *bold flashing sign* IMPORTANT for the algorithm. Not only that, but they’re also highly entertaining and a way for your ideal clients to connect with and get to know you in a new way!
Grace is sharing the value of Reels, along with how she comes up with content ideas for hers, how she plans & puts them together, how to edit Reels, what she does for sound/music, and how to make them applicable for your niche. She even walks you through the full creation of one of her Reels, from idea to application, and shares a simplified way to edit, create, and publish your own. No more avoiding, it’s time to finally rock Reels (and reap the algorithm benefits that come with)!
"She will share all of her knowledge and teach you everything she knows... she was there for every step of the way."
claudia
"Think Katie's work is just for women? Think again. I'm a man (obviously), and my business tripled, too!"
Joshua
hit play!
that's exactly what i did
It wasn’t easy and I messed up… a lot . But, more than that? I had blind ambition and chose to take action, and that’s mattered way more in the long run than any of the missteps and the mistakes.
Over the years, there have been hard times and there have been amazing times. There have been missed memories and there have been hard months money-wise, but there have also been days where I’m giddy with passion for what I do and when I can’t stop feeling so freakin’ lucky that I’m invited to make these memories.
I’ve sacrificed time with my hubby and littles to make this happen, knowing that every moment would be worth it if I could juuust make this thing work…
If I could make my passion into my career...
I bought my first-ever camera kit at Costco, watched some YouTube photography videos, took a
thousand pictures of my baby girl, and ultimately, well, sorta... stumbled into starting a
photography business.
Art + Heart totally simplifies everything you need to know to create a meaningful photography business that attracts the right people to your services.
"Where do I begin?! Jillian's workshop was WORTH IT!"
Jillian's Art & Heart Academy found me in an uncertain time in my business as I was facing a hard season of burn out. Her insights on how to elevate your business, client experience, social media and art were mind blowing and helped me come out of my burn out fog. From the course workbook that she sends you, to the weekly zoom calls and also the great facebook group, Jillian had it all laid out so that it was easy to stay on track and keep learning new things every week. I am so thankful to Jillian for making her course when she did as it was a great investment to help my business grow. If you are on the fence take my word for it, sign up and watch your business elevate!”
Diana
This Could Be You...
"If you're on the fence, let me just say... you've gotta work with Jillian."
Jillian shined a light on the power I had within me but that I was too scared to tap into. During Art and Heart I realized that even after 4 years of this gig I had not discovered my why. During that process, I realized that I have been staying where my business was comfortable and I was not being fulfilled. Mid course I decided that I needed to not only shift my brand, but also completely re-invent myself by starting a second photography brand. Scary, right? Not when you fully believe in who you are though! Jillian has not only been a mentor to me, but has become a friend. She challenges me to live my purpose, make decisions I trust in, and to push myself as a woman and as a photographer. I literally would not have had the guts to jump off the “I am safe where I am” cliff without Art & Heart! I also made some great friends during the course which (in this crazy industry) is a huge win! Jillian, thank you for believing in this spazz of a photographer who has 873 questions a week.”
Jenn
"This course was a game changer for me with a noticeable improvement in not only my pictures but my confidence."
“I knew I wanted more and I wanted the ideal client. I felt that Art & Heart Photography really helped you decide what it really is that you want in your client, what you want to put out there to get those clients, how to run a business, and I felt my confidence grew so much in this course. Jillian is amazing!”
Taylor
because i believe these materials work...
Building a business from your passion isn’t a joke. It’s tough work and requires resilience, grace,
and sacrifice— often all in the same day . This program is like the cliff notes version of my 10
years of building a photography business… It’s everything I’ve learned in running my own
side-hustle-turned-successful-business, packaged up into a neat, tidy, and actionable course that
you can apply and begin experiencing results from today.
That’s why I don’t mess around when it comes to getting you the outcome you envision. If you
show up, put in the work, and aren’t happy with your progress 30 days after hitting purchase,
just send proof and screenshots of your participation and work to support@jilliangoulding.com for a full
refund, no questions asked.Truthfully, the value is well above the sticker price when you add up my decade of
photography business experience, the extra resources, and bonus group calls with me for four
weeks. But I wanted to keep this program as affordable as possible for photographers who
need the most direct steps to take their business to the next level.
"I loved the weekly zooms. They were so interactive. We could ask any questions we wanted to, which was like gold!"
larua
"Think Katie's work is just for women? Think again. I'm a man (obviously), and my business tripled, too!"
Joshua
hit play!
What is it costing you to NOT invest in your business?
All growth and success in any business requires time and investment, that's a fact. The real question isn’t whether or not you can afford it, the real question is
whether or not you want to grow your business.
I was looking for a way to improve my photography skills as a hobbyist and Jillian really used the workshop to elevate all of us to the next level. Any question I had was answered and I never felt like I was "too new" at photography to be there. We all know that she is talented and her work speaks to that, but for her to open her doors to us and share some great teaching points was something special.
The workshop exceeded my exceptions. Jillian was so patient, reassuring and answered all my questions...I asked a lot of them! I’m excited and so grateful to Jillian for sharing her love of photography with novices like myself. I can’t recommend her workshop enough.
Want to learn more about Art & Heart?
Sign up for my free mini-course
THE SIX FIGURE PHOTOGRAPHER
For photographers who want to have a thriving business with a booked calendar, financial freedom and clients that inspire you to create art you love. whether or not you want to grow your business.
I completely understand. Every dollar invested in your business is an important one!
Still on the fence?