This episode, wedding photographer Chris Denner shares insights from his 27-year career in photography, discussing the challenges of self-employment, the necessity of being a good business operator, and the evolving nature of client relationships in the wedding industry. Chris also explores the role of AI in photography, the significance of mentorship, and the changing dynamics of modern couples. He encourages photographers to embrace their unique styles and to be proactive in their client interactions, ultimately highlighting the need for creativity and adaptability in a saturated market.

Chris & Scott Discuss;

1. Self-employment is challenging but rewarding.
2. Business acumen is essential for photographers.
3. Creativity must be nurtured and exercised regularly.
4. Understanding client needs leads to better relationships.
5. Financial management strategies can ease stress.
6. AI can be a valuable tool in photography.
7. Mentorship and community support are vital for growth.
8. Modern couples seek deeper connections with their photographers.
9. The photography industry is becoming increasingly competitive.

Show links;

1. Chris's website
2. Chris's Imagen profile

Hosted by Scott Carney Photography

Back for 2026, host Scott, owner of Photographers Keeping It Real welcomes Nottingham-based wedding photographer Martin Cheung to discuss the evolving landscape of wedding photography and the importance of collaboration within the industry. They delve into Martin's journey from a corporate IT job to becoming a full-time wedding photographer, emphasising the balance between personal life and work commitments. Martin shares insights on how to effectively engages with clients and other wedding suppliers, highlighting the significance of being helpful and approachable to secure recommendations and build lasting relationships. The conversation also touches on the impact of social media and the shift in marketing strategies, particularly the diminishing role of traditional SEO in favor of more direct client engagement through platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Scott & Martin discuss;

• "Take good photos and be helpful but If you can only do one of the two, be helpful."
• "Don't worry about SEO; focus on what your clients want to hear."
• "Modern brides don't really use Google."
• "You can make the business whatever you want."
• "The conversion rate is important to understand."
• "You have to compromise at every level in wedding photography."
• "Be nice to a magician, and you might get bookings worth eight grand."

Find out more about Photographers Keeping it Real here - https://www.photographerskeepingitreal.com/

Show Links:

• Martin Cheung - https://www.martincphotography.co.uk/
• Wedding Photography Unveiled Podcast - https://www.martincphotography.co.uk/wedding-photography-unveiled/
• Martins Website Design Business - https://www.martincphotography.co.uk/wedding-photography-unveiled/
• Host - Scott Carney Photography - https://scottcarneyphotography.com/

EPISODE 34 - SET FOR SUCCESS SUMMIT AND CHEESE WITH MICAELA KARINA

The summit is a free to attend online event for photographers over 3 days between the 10th and the 12th of February 2025 with 18 industry leading speakers, including the likes of Sam Hurd, Corey Potter, Melissa Love, Lisa Devlin, Faye Cornhill, Adam Lowndes, Anna Pumer and many many more covering everything from SEO, workflows, websites, social media, marketing, making iPhone films and even money and avoiding burnout. All designed to improve your business

Register here (affiliate link) - https://courses.get-it-together.co.uk/a/2148040251/a8KN2mt2

Micaela is one of the nicest people in the industry and we have a great chat including;

• Micaela's favourite cheese
• Visibility for your business and Meta ads
• Micaela's start into weddings
• Time vs money with marketing
• The Set for Success Summit
• Small changes that make big changes
• Much more...

Show Links;

• Micaela's website - https://www.micaelakarina.com/
• Micaela's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/micaelakarinaphotography
• Set for Success Summit Register - https://courses.get-it-together.co.uk/a/2148040251/a8KN2mt2
• No Fluff Facebook Ads Course - https://courses.get-it-together.co.uk/a/38013/a8KN2mt2

Join PKIR here: https://www.photographerskeepingitreal.com/register/

Host: Scott Carney - https://www.scottcarneyphotography.com/

Join PKIR to listen to exclusive members only extended versions of the podcast, submit to the awards and watch exclusive members content to help improve your documentary wedding photography - https://www.photographerskeepingitreal.com/register/