THOUGHTS, STORIES and IDEAS

Focal Blog

Learn more about Focal and our mission to make the photography industry a better place for customers and photographers alike

February 15, 2024

Why Your Response Time Could Be Leading To Clients Ghosting You…

Response time is crucial for closing sales for several reasons, each impacting various stages of the sales process and influencing the potential client’s decision-making process. Here are key reasons why quick response times can significantly affect your booking outcomes:
READ MORE
January 30, 2024

Beautiful Photography Websites Built With Focal

Ultimately, a website is more than just a gallery of your work; it's a multifaceted tool that can significantly expand your reach, attract diverse clients, and grow your photography business in a competitive digital marketplace. Take a peek at some beautiful websites we’ve built this year:
READ MORE
November 20, 2023

Marketing 101 for Photographers - What is a Marketing Funnel?

In this essential video from the "Marketing 101 for Photographers" course, we provide an in-depth exploration of the marketing funnel, specifically tailored for the photography industry. This lesson breaks down the funnel into three key segments: the top, middle, and bottom, explaining their unique roles and how photographers can effectively navigate through each stage to convert leads into clients.
READ MORE
November 20, 2023

Marketing 101 for Photographers: How to Leverage Technical SEO to get more Inquiries

In this detailed video lesson from "Marketing 101 for Photographers," we explore a technical-driven approach to SEO, specifically through blogging about local venues and locations.
READ MORE
November 20, 2023

Marketing 101 for Photographers: How to Leverage Content SEO to get more Inquiries

In this engaging and informative lesson from "Marketing 101 for Photographers," we delve into the effective strategy of using a content-driven approach to SEO through blogging, with a focus on local venues and locations.
READ MORE
November 20, 2023

Marketing 101 for Photographers: How to Respond to Client Inquiries

In this engaging video from our Marketing 101 course for photographers, we focus on mastering client communication to effectively lead potential clients towards booking your services. This lesson delves into the art of responding to common client inquiries, from initial questions about pricing and availability to specific requests about photography styles and session details. We share key communication strategies, including how to clearly articulate your unique value proposition, the importance of timely and professional responses, and tips for building rapport and trust with clients.
READ MORE
November 20, 2023

Marketing 101 for Photographers: How to use the Feature Benefit Technique for Conveying Value

In this essential episode of Marketing 101 for Photographers, we delve into the "Feature Benefit" sales technique, a crucial strategy for demonstrating the value of your photography services. The lesson begins by differentiating between the features of your services (such as high-resolution images and quick turnaround times) and their benefits to clients (like preserving memories or enhancing brand image).
READ MORE
November 18, 2023

Marketing 101 for Photographers: How to Identify & Target Your Ideal Clients

Welcome to our latest episode of Marketing 101, specifically designed for photographers! In this video, we delve deep into the art of identifying and targeting your ideal customers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, understanding who your clients are is the key to growing your photography business.
READ MORE
July 21, 2023

3 Things You Need to Launch Your Photography Website

Ready to share your business with the world but feeling overwhelmed? We've got you covered! In this article we’ll demystify the process of creating a website by discussing the three most important components you need to get off the ground: a website builder, a domain, and a web host.
READ MORE
July 19, 2023

6 Tricks for Choosing Your Photography Domain

As a photographer, establishing an online presence is crucial to reaching your clients, and your domain name is an important part of this process. Learn the tips and tricks to choosing your domain, and find the address that's right for you!
READ MORE
July 6, 2023

Threads Vs. Twitter: What’s Better For Photographers?

Threads, Meta's response to Twitter, is making a splash in the world of social media. But is it the best app for your photography business? We look at what Threads has to offer, the good, the bad, and the ugly, to help you decide whether or not it's time to leave your Twitter account behind.
READ MORE
July 4, 2023

8 Tips for Shooting Your First Wedding

Your first wedding shoot as a professional photographer is a big moment and might feel a little daunting. These 8 tips will help you make sure your first wedding shoot is a memory you treasure as much as your clients do!
READ MORE
June 30, 2023

Migrating Your Photography Website from Universal Analytics to GA4

As of July 1, 2023, Google Universal Analytics will to longer process data. Learn how to upgrade your tracking to GA4 and improve your insights!
READ MORE
June 30, 2023

June Photo Contest Winner!

Safe to say we were BLOWN AWAY by this month's submissions! Everyone’s photos captured the theme beautifully, the talent in this community is overwhelming and inspiring. We sure are glad we left it up to the community to pick a winner because there’s no way we would have been able to decide. But alas, one photographer must prevail...
READ MORE
June 30, 2023

Not-a-Conference Maui 2023 recap!

Not-a-Conference Maui was everything we could have dreamed of and more. Nothing compares to the exciting adventure Maui presents; waking up to the sound of wild roosters each morning, walking down to the ocean at lunch to catch a glimpse of the majestic sea turtles, taking pictures of the countless rainbows after brief sun showers, drinking a crisp glass of POG (passion orange guava juice) at the end of a successful day, and the ultimate experience of bringing 50 photographers together with the shared interest of bettering themselves as artists and business owners...
READ MORE
June 20, 2023

5 Things All New Professional Photographers Should Do

So you’re starting your career as a professional photographer, congratulations! Starting your own business can be an exciting, albeit daunting, experience. Turning your passion for photography into a successful career will require more than a keen eye behind the lens, but don’t worry - we’re here to help! Here are five key steps every aspiring photographer should consider when starting out on their professional journey.
READ MORE
June 19, 2023

Better Than Booked with Lindsay Coulter

With a 6-figure milestone bagged in under a year, a staggering 1000+ sessions, 400 weddings, and a flurry of coaching successes, the unstoppable Lindsay Coulter has unveiled her first-ever, all-in-one, online course! Dive in to discover more about Lindsay, how to grab a module from the "Better Than Booked" course for free, and the juicy secret offer we've cooked up, especially for our fabulous Focal subscribers!
READ MORE
June 19, 2023

Photographer Spotlight - David Graham

Come meet the one and only David Graham, a wedding photography wizard from sunny Sarasota, Florida! With 35 laughter-filled years behind the camera, David never misses a beat or a joke. We first met David at our maiden Not-a-Conference in Banff, and he's become a beloved fixture ever since. Get ready to be charmed and inspired—once you meet David, you're in for a delight!
READ MORE
June 16, 2023

3 Ways Your Photography Blog Can Help Maximize SEO

Your blog might be one of your most under-utilized tools when it comes to SEO. Find out three easy changes you can make to your posts to unleash the power of your blog and boost your SEO!
READ MORE
June 15, 2023

Three Things Photographers Can do to Boost SEO

Learnt the three key SEO tips for getting started with your website.
READ MORE
June 14, 2023

5 Reasons You Should List Your Prices on Your Photography Website

Explore the advantages of listing your photography prices publicly, including letting your work sell itself, qualifying leads, hastening sales, enhancing your professional image, and improving the client's experience. Embrace transparency in your photography business and focus more on capturing those perfect shots.
READ MORE
June 11, 2023

How to design a photography website in 6 easy steps

Establishing a prosperous wedding photography business hinges not only on your talent behind the lens but also on your expertise in creating an enticing online presence. A well-constructed website serves as your business's digital storefront - it's where your unique style merges with your clients' dreams of their special day.In this post, we'll take you through a simple, yet effective six-step process to optimize your photography website design. If you decide to use Focal, our AI website building assistant will make these steps even easier, and our beautifully optimized photography website templates will set you up for success. Focal simplifies the process, helping you not only to display your work attractively but also to significantly enhance your chances of ranking high in search results, thereby amplifying your online visibility. So gear up to put your best digital foot forward in the world of wedding photography!
READ MORE
March 21, 2023

A Guide to Photography Contracts + Free Wedding Photography Contract Template

A good contract isn't only helpful to a photography business; it's essential. In this article, you'll learn the essential elements of a photography contract and how to protect yourself and your clients with a well-drafted contract.
READ MORE
February 27, 2023

The Focal WPPI Packing List

Lindsay Coulter x Focal The Ultimate Not-a-Conference Las Vegas Packing List
READ MORE
December 21, 2022

5 Wedding Photography Website Templates Used By Famous Photographers

Looking for a photography website template that showcases your photography work and captures leads? Check out Focal’s 5 best photography website templates here.
READ MORE
December 7, 2022

SEO - Understanding Keywords

Struggling to come up with keywords for your business? Unable to compete with bigger companies on keywords you want to appear for? This blog serves as a comprehensive guide to help you select keywords that are going to have the biggest impact on your business.
READ MORE
December 1, 2022

SEO For Beginners

Ever wondered how to get to the first page of Google? Have you heard big words like Search Engine Optimization and not been able to follow along? The purpose of this guide is to teach you the very basics of SEO and the three bucket approach that will help your webpages rank higher on Google!
READ MORE
November 28, 2022

Q&A: Joy Michelle & Lachlan Shum

In this FB Q&A session, photographer and educator Joy Michelle gets in-depth with Lachlan Shum about the origins of Focal, standing out in a competitive industry, attracting your ideal clients, running mini sessions, and much more!
READ MORE
November 18, 2022

How to write a blog post that will boost your photography business!

Struggling to write blog posts? We hear you! That's why we've put together a quick guide on how to write creative, engaging blog posts that demonstrate who you are as a photographer and drive traffic to your website!
READ MORE
November 9, 2022

What The Focal? Episode 3: A Balancing Act w/ Palms and Lace

The dynamic photography duo, JJ and Alison, join us to talk about their amazing and hectic career balancing photography shoots between Utah and Hawaii.Tune in to hear them talk more about picking up and moving locations as a photographer, what it is like to make your high school sweetheart your business partner, and discussions around braving the pandemic and getting through slow times.
READ MORE
November 2, 2022

Q&A: Lindsay Coulter and Lachlan Shum

On their Facebook Live session, Lindsay & Lachlan discuss a number of topics, including building a portfolio, how Focal was started, how to market and price your photography, and even Gucci sneakers!
READ MORE
October 28, 2022

What The Focal? Episode 2: Get Your Ass UP w/ Lindsay Coulter

Named One of the Most Inspiring Wedding Photographers in Canada, Lindsay shares her story and advice about growing a business one step at a time.
READ MORE
October 28, 2022

Tips with Taylor Jackson: Book More Mini Sessions!!

Mini sessions are a great way to build a portfolio quickly, and supplement your income during the offseason, but can be really hard. In this blog, Taylor Jackson covers some of the common questions and confusion around mini sessions. He'll also go over pricing, setting up, marketing, and running your mini sessions effectively.
READ MORE
October 19, 2022

Episode 1: What The Focal? (w/ Lachlan Shum, CEO & Founder of Focal)

In the first-ever episode of What the Focal, join hosts Sierra & Kirsty as they quiz their boss on what made him start Focal. Hear Lachlan talk about side hustling before Focal, slinging RVs and designing hanging clothes racks. Only to be engrossed by how hard it is to get photographers to take his money! 
READ MORE
October 17, 2022

Take us back 😍🍾 Hair & Makeup: @behindtheblus...

Take us back 😍🍾 Hair & Makeup: @behindtheblush Florals: @fabloomosity Dress: @thebridalboutique @ruedeseinebridal Photography by: @amberleechristeyphotography @heydenphoto @johnatacanphoto @eugenekimphotography @nickylynn_photography @davidalangrahamphotography @scottrobertlim
READ MORE
October 17, 2022

Interested in winning a free ticket to our Maui conference in 2023?! Join our Facebook group to find out how to enter - link in bio! 🎟️🏝️

Interested in winning a free ticket to our Maui conference in 2023?! Join our Facebook group to find out how to enter - link in bio! 🎟️🏝️
READ MORE
July 20, 2022

Is Wedding Photography Dying?

Is wedding photography dying? Is the wedding marketing shifting? Hear Taylor Jackson's insight on this topic!
READ MORE
July 19, 2022

How to Book More Weddings From Your Website

What is website conversion and how does it work? How do I book more weddings from my website? If you're asking these questions then you've come to the right place. Dive into the details on website conversion with Taylor Jackson and Lachlan Shum and learn about what website conversion is, how it works, and how to optimize your website to convert more visitors into paying customers. Learn more and level up your photography business!
READ MORE
December 29, 2021

Tips and poses for including siblings in newborn portraits

Newborn sessions highlight a new chapter in a parent’s life. In these sessions the newborn should be the star, however, we understand how important it is for parents to have a sibling photo during this exciting period. Capturing the love and impending lifelong friendship is a cherished moment. However, with that being said, we also understand how kids can be. The reality of a sibling photo can be chaotic. To help make your life easier, we compiled a list of tips and poses for including siblings in newborn portraits.
READ MORE
December 22, 2021

Top 7 family photographers in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to an incredible amount of creativity. With so much talent in a city full of amazing photographers, we helped narrow down the top 7 family photographers that you can trust to capture your family’s unique personalities and the love you share. 
READ MORE
December 7, 2021

Why elopement weddings are rising in popularity

I’m sure you have heard of the phrase eloping, commonly defined as running away secretly with the intention of getting married. Previously, it was treated as a stigma because to elope meant that your marriage wasn’t supported by your family or friends. It was considered a whim and many other misconceptions surrounded it. But, now it is being seen as for what it really is: a choice to focus the wedding entirely on you and your significant other. Elopements and weddings have the same result, committing your life to your partner. However, the journey, experience, and adventure that makeup elopements and weddings are wildly different. With that being said, why elope?
READ MORE
December 7, 2021

Why you need to book yourself a portrait session

Hiring a photographer is seen as an investment, commonly reserved for special occasions; weddings, graduations, families, etc. Many people wait to hire a photographer until one of those ‘special occasions’ happens in their life and those moments are amazing, but guess what? You deserve to be celebrated just as much! We believe that it is important to have your portrait made at least once because why should you settle for cell phone selfies? Having said that, we have compiled a list of reasons why you should book yourself a portrait session.
READ MORE
December 7, 2021

Top 6 family photographers in San Francisco Bay Area

Most people have thought about doing a family photography session but just haven’t got around to it. Don’t wait around and let the time pass you. Family photography sessions should be an important part of your life; to document growth and milestones, create a fond memory that you and your children can look back on, and have it hung proudly in your home. San Francisco, California is home to an abundance of talented family photographers. We have compiled a list of the top 6 family photographers in the San Francisco Bay area to choose from. 
READ MORE
December 2, 2021

Get to know Focal: 'I want us to earn your respect'

Our promise? To see you as a photographer, an artist, and a human being. To always listen. And to help your photography business succeed in the best way we can. 
READ MORE
November 23, 2021

What to wear during your winter family photography session

Winter photography sessions hold a special place in my heart. The physical and emotional connection you get by snuggling closer, the fresh snow that looks like a blank canvas, and the snow-covered landscapes can be stunning. However, it can be tricky when dressing for a winter shoot. On one hand, you want your family to look amazing and on the other, you have to make sure everyone is warm. To help ease your mind and give you some ideas, we have created a list of what you should wear and be prepared for during your next winter family photography session. 
READ MORE
November 23, 2021

Top 9 wedding packages in Calgary, AB

The time has come: you and your partner are about to embark on a whole new journey! When it comes to planning out your wedding, there are an endless amount of things to consider and plan for. A wedding photographer should be at the top of your priority list because, during that single day, your photographer will capture every joyous moment. 
READ MORE
November 18, 2021

Top family photographers around Seattle

Family is such a big part of your life! Wanting to treasure these amazing people and the fond moments they represent is something we value and understand. Having family photographs that you can affectionately look back on displayed in your home brings comfort and joy. Your choice to invest in a quality family photographer is important. We have you covered with a list of the top family photographers in the Seattle area -- from Normandy Park all the way to Bellingham. 
READ MORE
November 12, 2021

Q&A: Documentary Photography and Motherhood with Krystle Schofield (Victoria, B.C.)

Whether she’s photographing a family in their home or a yoga group in their studio, Victoria based Krystle Schofield connects with her clients and their space in a unique way. With her documentary-style approach to photography, Krystle captures those candid, authentic moments of connection. We talked to Krystle about her background in design, her journey through motherhood, and the importance of being seen.
READ MORE
November 7, 2021

Top 5 elopement photographers in Calgary, AB

Elopement weddings are very intentional choices that couples make for a variety of reasons: money, family, or simply for the fact that they want this joyous occasion to remain intimate for themselves. Eloping does not hold the stigma that it did before; it simply means the couple have chosen to shift the focus onto themselves and their relationship. From having a big adventure together to exchanging your lifelong vows somewhere meaningful, we have gathered a list of the top 5 elopement photographers in Calgary, AB. 
READ MORE
October 30, 2021

5 unique engagement photography locations in Calgary, AB

Engagement photos are an irreplaceable opportunity. They capture you and your partner's excitement and the overflowing joy before you dive into the next chapter of your life. During this process, you may be struggling to decide on an engagement location, one that represents you and your partner's journey. Calgary is home to amazing scenery with an abundance of jaw-dropping locations to choose from. If you’re looking for a unique, memorable location to represent your relationship, we compiled a list of striking options in and around the city to spice up your engagement photoshoot. 
READ MORE
October 29, 2021

Can’t decide between in-home or studio newborn photos?

Wanting to capture the fleeting newborn stage can be a very daunting task. With an ongoing list of things to do, the last thing new parents want to worry about is the location of their newborn photos. If you are having a hard time deciding between an in-home session or a studio session, don’t worry: We partnered with Calgary newborn photographer Nadine McKenney to offer some helpful insight. 
READ MORE
October 20, 2021

Q&A: Birth Photography and Island Life with Melissa Whittington (Paia, HI)

From massage therapy to acting to owning a frozen chocolate banana stand, Melissa Whittington has done it all. But nothing comes close to her love of newborn photography. After leaving Georgia for Hawaii, she decided to embrace her love for babies and baskets and Rainbows and Hot Fudge Photography was born. We talked to Melissa about life on the island, birth photography, and her deep love of Willie Nelson.
READ MORE
October 17, 2021

Why you should hire a newborn and maternity photographer

During this new chapter in your life, it may seem like you have an endless amount of things to do before the baby comes. It is a very exciting yet busy period. You may be hesitant about whether or not you should hire a maternity and newborn photographer -- well, we have compiled a list of reasons why you should! 
READ MORE
October 17, 2021

What to look for in a newborn or maternity photographer

The time between your pregnancy to the arrival of your newborn is a magical journey; however, it will fly by quicker than you anticipated. Entrusting a photographer to understand and capture those incredible fleeting moments that you want to cherish is very important. We partnered with Calgary maternity and newborn photographer Nadine McKenney to narrow down key points you should consider when looking for your next maternity or newborn photographer. 
READ MORE
October 16, 2021

Top 6 newborn/maternity photographers in Calgary, AB

Pregnancy and the road to motherhood is an incredibly special, yet fleeting time. A need to capture these amazing moments is something we understand. So, whether it be a maternity shoot or a newborn shoot, we have you covered with a list of Calgary’s top 6 maternity and newborn photographers. 
READ MORE
October 6, 2021

Top 6 locations for your next family photoshoot in Calgary, AB

When it comes to having an abundance of incredible locations to take family photos, Calgarians have no shortage. We compiled a list of eye-catching options in and around the city to juice up your next family photoshoot. 
READ MORE
October 6, 2021

Q&A: Relationships, energy, and photography with Hannah Tabert (Vancouver, BC)

With 10 years of experience as a professional photographer, Vancouver-based Hannah Tabert decided it was time to finally stretch her entrepreneurial wings and start her own photography business. With her relational approach to photoshoots, Hannah lets her subjects’ guide her lens, capturing those elusive moments of authenticity. We spoke with Hannah about how she came to love photography, the influence fashion has had on her career, and her experiences as an entrepreneur.
READ MORE
October 1, 2021

Top 5 reasons to hire a family photographer

Photography has become much more accessible than it has ever been before. We spoke with four experienced family photographers from across the United States and Canada to find out why you should hire a professional for your next shoot.
READ MORE
September 29, 2021

Growing your Photography Business: One-on-One with Lachlan Shum

Do you want to learn how to better identify and reach you ideal clients? We talk to Focal CEO Lachlan Shum about his history in sales, his disruptive approach to the industry, and why he developed the Business Accelerator Program.
READ MORE
September 24, 2021

What to consider when hiring a family photographer

Picking a family photographer who you want to represent and capture each of your unique personalities and relationships can be extremely intimidating, but it doesn't have to be! 
READ MORE
September 15, 2021

Q&A: Diving headfirst, growth and a deeply rooted love of family photography with Haley Skof (Calgary, AB)

Inspired by her two free-spirited kids and the loss of her job during the pandemic, Calgary-based photographer Haley Skof took matters into her own hands, picked up a camera and dove into the photography community.
READ MORE
September 14, 2021

Top 6 family photographers in Calgary, AB

With the holiday seasons fast approaching, countless memories are made between you and your loved ones. Capture that timeless joy and laughter between you and your family with one of Calgary’s top 6 family photographers. ‍
READ MORE
August 4, 2021

Q&A: Mastering food photography with Sandy Weatherall (Vancouver Island, BC)

An avid skydiver, yogi, martial artist, and commercial photographer, Sandy Weatherall (Jinsei Media) has photographed everything from pets, to portraits, to candy-coated donuts and exploding smoothies. We spoke with Weatherall about the secrets of food photography, what makes a good photographer, and “watching the light bulbs go on.”
READ MORE
July 16, 2021

Top 10 Wedding Photography Packages in Vancouver, BC

It’s time to find the perfect photographer for your wedding day. You want a photographer who you can trust, and who will capture all the special moments on your special day. To make things easy for you, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 wedding photography packages in Vancouver, BC. Here are the top 10 wedding packages in Vancouver, BC.
READ MORE
July 14, 2021

10 steps to perfect SEO as a photographer

At its core, SEO is about simplicity: making things fast, useful, and easy to find. If you keep those principles in mind, the rest will fall into place.
READ MORE
July 9, 2021

Q&A: Darkrooms, joy and happiness with Julie Doro (Vancouver, BC)

An eight-year professional photographer, Julie Doro has a knack for finding what makes her subjects unique. We interviewed her about falling in love with photography, why photographers have to "lead their clients," and getting her subjects to relax.
READ MORE
June 30, 2021

Top 10 Family Photography Packages in Vancouver, BC

Summertime is the perfect time for a family photography session. If you are looking for a family photographer in Vancouver, BC, but have no idea where to start looking, we’ve got you covered!The Focal Marketplace makes it easy to browse talented photographers in Vancouver, BC and beyond, giving you all the information you need to book your perfect photographer.
READ MORE
June 30, 2021

Q&A: Family photography and "quality over quantity" with Brittany Barry (Victoria, BC)

There is starting a photography business, and then there is starting a photography business during a pandemic. For Victoria, BC-based photographer Brittany Barry (Burrow & Bloom Photography), the challenge was a welcome one. We spoke with Barry about getting her start, lessons learned, and the maxim of "quality over quantity."
READ MORE
June 22, 2021

How to turn mini-session clients into full-session clients

Mini sessions are great for a number of reasons as a photographer: they're quick, easy to edit, and you can shoot them in high volumes. But if you want to convert your mini session clients into ones who will pay for your full sessions, there's a trick to doing them well.
READ MORE
June 14, 2021

Q&A: Reaching your ideal clients with Annemie Tonken (This Can't Be That Hard)

The owner of Megapixie Photography; co-creator of The Family Narrative; and host of This Can't Be That Hard, a business podcast for photographers, Annemie Tonken has made a career out of helping photographers build more confidence in their businesses. We spoke with Tonken about getting her start as a photographer, why marketing to ideal clients is like birdhouse-building, and how to convey your value in an industry where pricing varies wildly.
READ MORE
June 4, 2021

Q&A: Boudoir and empowerment with Blackfish Collective (Victoria, BC)

Running a photography business can feel like a solitary endeavour. Victoria's Blackfish Collective are proof it doesn't have to be. A co-operative model that "arose out of the notion that creatives can always learn from each other," we spoke with the group about working together and how boudoir photography has led to some of the most rewarding moments of all.
READ MORE
May 27, 2021

Q&A: Elopements and "doing shit you love" with Vanessa Fukuyama (Vancouver, BC)

Vanessa Fukuyama (Fortune Hill Photography) has an eye for details — the kind of things easily missed, like a glance or a quiet smile on a busy wedding day. We spoke with Vanessa about building confidence behind the camera, photographing for Lululemon, and why "life's too short to do shit you don't love."
READ MORE
May 25, 2021

Q&A: The superpower of freezing time with Jessica Woodall (Wake Forest, NC)

To spend a photoshoot with Jessica Woodall is to feel like you've reconnected with an old friend. Her North Carolina charm and easygoing manner make you feel at home in front of the camera. We spoke with Woodall about lessons learned from Christmas shoots, getting her subjects comfortable in front of the camera, and the superpower of freezing time.
READ MORE
May 11, 2021

How to use customer personas in your photography business

Feeling lost on the business end of photography? Developing clear customer personas can help — and you don't have to be a sales whiz. You just have to pay attention to your clients and what they want.
READ MORE
May 11, 2021

"Helping photographers and clients connect": Focal on This Can't Be That Hard

The ever-gracious Annemie Tonken invited our Co-Founder & CEO, Lachlan Shum, onto This Can't Be That Hard to talk about all things photography business-related, including how to put yourself into your client's shoes as a photographer.
READ MORE
May 7, 2021

"Punching the roof": Focal on the Six Figure Photography Podcast

Award-winning photographer Ben Hartley hosted Focal's Co-Founder & CEO, Lachlan Shum, on the Six Figure Photography Podcast. Listen as the two discuss the keys to communicating value as a photographer, sales techniques than anyone can incorporate, and how to make your business stand out.
READ MORE
April 19, 2021

Why your photography investment page needs fixing

If all you're using your website for is to share photos, you might as well stick to Instagram. Your goal should be to answer your photography clients' questions before they get in touch with you.
READ MORE
April 13, 2021

Top 5 Maternity & Newborn Photographers in Victoria, BC

Are you in search of the perfect maternity photographer in Victoria, BC to capture the beautiful moments of your pregnancy? Or maybe you are looking for a fantastic newborn photographer to take photos of your sweet baby! Focal has you covered with an array of talented, local Victoria photographers.Here are our top 5 maternity & newborn photographers in Victoria, BC!
READ MORE
April 9, 2021

Finding your ideal photography clients starts with you

Reaching your ideal photography clients hinges on one key principle: you don't choose your ideal clients; they choose you. To bring in bookings, focus on what makes you stand out. Then tell your customers about it.
READ MORE
April 2, 2021

The top 10 wedding packages in Victoria, BC

Are you in search of the perfect photographer to capture your special day? Do you have absolutely no idea where to start looking for a wedding photographer in Victoria, BC, and no idea how to book their packages? Focal has you covered!
READ MORE
March 21, 2021

How to create a photography business plan

Whether you are fresh into your photography business or two years deep, it is essential to create a business plan. A business plan is the key to your success in the photography industry. It ensures that you aren’t stumbling around blindly, but rather making productive decisions that will propel your business in the right direction. Read on to learn about the 5 key parts to every photography business plan.
READ MORE
March 18, 2021

The top 25 percent rule: How to succeed as a photographer

You can be more skilled than 90% of photographers, but if you haven’t learned how to market yourself, your business will plateau — and you’ll watch as other photographers, even lesser-skilled ones, fill up their booking calendars faster. Being a professional photographer takes both — and more. You don’t need to be the best at either. You just need to be good enough.
READ MORE
March 9, 2021

How Focal Marketplace is different from other photographer directories

Let’s be frank: many of the big-name directories don’t treat photographers very well. That's why with Focal, we set out to create a marketplace where the focus is on you.
READ MORE
March 8, 2021

Your mindset is losing you photography clients

When it comes to business, mindset is everything. A positive mindset and optimistic attitude can truly affect the success of your photography business–and here's how. Here are our 5 tips for shifting your mindset and achieving all your business goals.
READ MORE
February 23, 2021

Photography Website Checklist

A website is essential for any business–especially for photographers. It is where customers can come to learn about you and your photography, understanding everything from your photography style, packages, prices, contact information, and more. Read on for a "pinnable" checklist for your photography website and tips for creating one that works!
READ MORE
February 5, 2021

Your photography business is a store, not an art gallery

The worst mistake a photographer can make is to treat their business like an art gallery and not a store. Essentially, not treating their business like an actual business. Here are 4 tips for transforming your photography into a real business.
READ MORE
February 4, 2021

3 tips for simplifying your photography workflow

A simplified workflow is essential for any photography business. Not only does it ensure your business runs smoothly, but it can also combat feelings of imposter syndrome. If you struggle with feeling like you are a true professional, developing a simple workflow can help your business feel more legit. Here are 3 tips to get you started.
READ MORE
January 25, 2021

How to stand out in a saturated photography industry

When anyone with a smartphone can take a half-decent portrait, you’ve got to find a way to separate yourself from the crowd.
READ MORE
January 25, 2021

Why CODB isn't what it's cracked up to be in photography

Nobody wants to work for less than they’re worth. But too often, focusing on this one thing ends up hurting early-career photographers who don’t have the experience or client base yet.
READ MORE
January 22, 2021

How to build an awesome photography investment page

An investment page is a lot more than just explaining your sessions through the number of photos included, the number of hours it will take, and how much it is. Your investment page is meant to describe your sessions and convince inquiring customers to book you through conveying your value as a photographer. Here are 5 tips for building an awesome investment page.
READ MORE
January 20, 2021

How Nellie Quail retooled her photography workflow with Focal in a single day

Nellie Quail is the kind of family photographer clients love: genuine, kind, and with an eye for bringing her customers’ creative vision to life. But between raising her young kids and shooting in the evenings, she’d never had the chance to build herself a solid workflow. She turned to Focal to take her business to the next level.
READ MORE
January 18, 2021

Q&A: Equine photography with Olivia Danielle (Great Bend, KS)

Olivia Danielle makes an art out of capturing horses and their riders. We spoke with the Kansas-based photographer about finding her niche, landing her first clients, and why getting things wrong helps in getting things right.
READ MORE

Browse and Book a Photographer on the Focal Marketplace

Browse Styles, Compare Packages and Find The Perfect Photographer
BROWSE
Success! Thank you for subscribing.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.