Find the perfect wedding photographer

Wedding

Tips, tricks and ideas to help you find the perfect wedding photographer

April 12, 2020

Starling Lane Vineyard in Victoria BC - Wedding Venue Photo Walkthrough

Timeless elegance meets natural beauty at Starling Lane Vineyards where you’ll be transported into a fairytale world filled with antique buildings and blossoming flowers. Just outside Victoria BC, this gorgeous venue offers a tranquil setting for your ceremony and is only a short drive away from town should you desire a lively reception.
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October 17, 2022

Take us back đŸ˜đŸŸ Hair & Makeup: @behindtheblus...

Take us back đŸ˜đŸŸ Hair & Makeup: @behindtheblush Florals: @fabloomosity Dress: @thebridalboutique @ruedeseinebridal Photography by: @amberleechristeyphotography @heydenphoto @johnatacanphoto @eugenekimphotography @nickylynn_photography @davidalangrahamphotography @scottrobertlim
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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!
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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!
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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.
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September 14, 2020

5 tips for starting a photography blog

As a photographer, a blog is an easy and fun way to engage with potential customers and other photographers. So, if you have ever asked yourself, is it even worth it for me to start a blog? The answer is yes! Here are 5 essential tips to help you start your photography blog.
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February 25, 2020

Don't make these 7 mistakes when booking a wedding photographer

It’s always sad to see couples disappointed by their wedding photography and it seems like it happens far too often, so the team at Focal has created a quick guide to avoid some of the common pitfalls of hiring a wedding photographer. Here are 7 common mistakes to avoid when choosing your wedding photographer!
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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.
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October 2, 2020

6 tips for boosting your social media

When running a photography business, social media plays a critical role in gaining clients and building relationships with other photographers. So, here are 6 helpful tips for boosting your social media game.
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February 28, 2020

Focal photographers' most Instagramable locations in Victoria, BC

We teamed up with our photographers to come up with the most instagramable locations in Victoria, BC Canada!
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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:
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September 18, 2020

Ask Marlboro: Should I charge for photos on top of my session fees?

Oft-debated in the photography industry is whether photographers should be charging for photos on top of session fees, or if the pricing should all be rolled into one. It’s a question veteran photographer Marlboro Wang has been asked more than once. Read on for why he opts for the all-inclusive approach.
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December 24, 2020

How to revolutionize your photography business

Is your business ready for 2021? Whether you feel ready to bring your photography business into the new year (after the strange year we are in right now) or not, you might not have considered completely revolutionizing everything from your website to workflow. But today, I will convince you why NOW is the best time to revolutionize your approach to your photography business to take you that one step closer to your business goals. 
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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! 
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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."
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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.
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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.
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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. 
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April 29, 2021

Q&A: Portraiture and fashion photography with Noah Asanias (Vancouver, BC)

In an industry that can be notoriously hard to crack, photographer Noah Asanias has built a reputation for his billboard-worthy style and knack for capturing the best of his subjects. The founder of Ark Studio, Asanias has worked with the likes of Lululemon and AllSaints, and has photographed a wide array of film and television personalities, from Leah Lewis (The Half of It), to Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine), to Metta World Peace (Los Angeles Lakers).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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. 
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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.
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December 14, 2020

Q&A: Car chases and cherry blossoms with Greg Samborski (Victoria, BC)

Greg Samborski is a photography polymath: the kind of lensman who pilots drones as deftly as he rides a motorcycle, shoots weddings as comfortably as street photography, and cut his industry chops in Korea working for the likes of Dior, Netflix, and Google. Now based in Victoria, BC, Samborski is looking to bring his creative approach to a new clientele — one ready for something outside the ordinary.
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August 18, 2021

Top 10 most Instagrammable places in Victoria, BC

From lakes to parks to alleyways, there are so many stunning and Instagram-worthy places in Victoria to visit. Maybe too many! It can be hard to narrow it down, which is why we created this list just for you. If you’re planning a trip to Victoria, aka the City of Gardens, don’t forget to capture the memories and check out at least a few of the sites on this list because they truly are the top 10 most Instagrammable places in Victoria, BC. You’ll see!
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September 9, 2020

Q&A: Astros and hip-hop photography with Todd Spoth (Houston, TX)

A self-described punk rock kid from Houston, Todd Spoth's high school photography course was “literally the only class I’ve ever failed,” he says. Today, Spoth is a Gold Remi award-winning documentary film producer whose photographs have appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and ESPN.
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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.
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November 20, 2023

Marketing 101 for Photographers: How to Create Packages that Sell the Experience, not Photos

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August 25, 2020

Q&A: Chasing summer with photographer Rob Wilson (Victoria, BC)

Victoria-based photographer Rob Wilson is obsessed with "that feeling — like a late summer evening." It's there in the photos he captures, whether he's shooting weddings, portraits, or his travels. Raised in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island, Wilson is the co-founder of Arcas Media, a production collective specializing in photography, videography, and graphic design.
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April 27, 2021

3 ways to make free and TFP shoots work for you

Nobody wants to earn a reputation as the free photographer. But if you're going to agree to a free shoot, there are ways to maximize its value to your photography business. It's about thinking strategically.
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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.
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February 24, 2020

How your photography pricing is losing you dream clients

When a client wants to book a photography package for $1,000, it’s hard for them to understand everything involved in the production. What's missing is the story. What makes your photo sessions a unique experience?
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April 22, 2020

Victoria, BC takeout inspo

Staying home doesn't have to mean cooking during COVID-19. In the spirit of supporting our beloved friends in the food service industry, the Focal team wanted to share some of our favourite places for takeout in Victoria. (Don't blame us if you get hungry.)
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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.
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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. 
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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.”
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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. ‍
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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.
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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.
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February 25, 2020

Focal on Beers With Entrepreneurs

Listen to our appearance on Beers with Entrepreneurs a podcast that explores up and coming startups!
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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!
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June 15, 2023

Three Things Photographers Can do to Boost SEO

Learnt the three key SEO tips for getting started with your website.
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October 13, 2020

4 reasons you need a photography mentor

Whether you want to boost your photography skills or grow your network, a mentor is a great way to take the next step in your business. Along with 4 reasons why you need a photographer, I share the necessary questions you need to ask yourself before searching for a mentor to get the most out of the experience, and also a few places where you can find the right one for you.
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February 28, 2020

Destination pre-wedding featuring horse and carriage in Victoria BC

This shoot saw the Focal team travel around Victoria with an amazing couple starting from Schwartz bay at 9 am and finishing up at parliament just after sunset capturing pre-wedding photos the entire way.
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November 20, 2023

Marketing 101 for Photographers: How to Book Inquiries like a Pro

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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.
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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!
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June 10, 2020

How to choose the perfect wedding photographer

With so many wedding photographers out there, each with their own plethora of packages and options to choose from, it can often be daunting to tell the difference. Thankfully, Focal is here to help!
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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.
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July 2, 2020

Headshots vs. personal branding photography

A common mix-up for customers looking to hire a professional photographer for self-portraits is the terminology of “headshots” and “personal branding” photography. We've covered everything you need to know in order to choose the right one for you.
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October 28, 2020

How to get more clients

With photography being such a competitive business, it can be hard to stand out among the other photographers in your area and get clients. Especially if you are brand new! But don’t worry. It is possible to start building up your client list at any point in your photography career, and for you, today is that day! This post is going to walk you through how with Focal’s help, you will gain more clients. 
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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.
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February 24, 2020

How to choose a newborn photographer in Victoria BC

Newborn photography in Victoria, BC can be a big investment. Doing your research and asking the right questions is extremely important — especially when you are going to be trusting someone with your baby. Here are ten things to ask potential newborn photographers, and the types of answers you should look for.
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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! 
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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.
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October 23, 2020

"Photography is the way I communicate": Meet Marlboro Wang

A wedding and family photographer based in Victoria, BC, Marlboro Wang has established a reputation for his grandiose, cinematic approach to capturing couples. You'll notice it in his wedding and engagement photos: breathtaking; each one carefully-staged, not a hair out of place. We caught up with Wang—a longtime Focal user—to hear more of his story.
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August 28, 2020

Mirrorless vs. DSLR: Why mirrorless wins

Nowadays, mirrorless cameras are every bit as powerful as their DSLR counterparts, and often lighter and less expensive. Read on to find out why mirrorless cameras win out in the never-ending debate.
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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. 
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November 20, 2023

Marketing 101 for Photographers: How to Leverage Packages & Pricing for SEO

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February 28, 2020

Bat Mitzvah Bash in Victoria BC!

Coming of age is a truly unique point in any young person's life and it was our pleasure to capture this special memory together. Being apart of an event that brings family and friends from all over the world is something that we love to capture. Have a look at some behind the scenes of this beautiful Bat Mitzvah photo shoot in Victoria BC!
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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."
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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).
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July 20, 2022

Is Wedding Photography Dying?

Is wedding photography dying? Is the wedding marketing shifting? Hear Taylor Jackson's insight on this topic!
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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. 
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February 27, 2020

Why I built this

The story that made me so passionate about building Focal to help photographers and ultimately work to make the photography industry a better and fairer place.
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November 20, 2023

Marketing 101 for Photographers: How to Find Creative Top of the Funnel Marketing Channels

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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! 
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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!
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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!
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October 22, 2020

Q&A: Scottish ceilidhs and safe spaces with Sarah Murdoch (Calgary, AB)

A Calgary-based photographer, Sarah Murdoch has been photographing weddings since 2006. A product of the film era, Murdoch cut her teeth in the darkrooms at the Alberta College of Art and Design. It's that same handcrafted approach she carries into her shoots—"the biggest goal in my business is to create photos that are timeless," she says. "I want realness, I want authenticity, and I want to tell people's stories."
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September 18, 2020

The biggest fix you can make to your photography portfolio

It’s almost always the first question customers ask: how much do you charge, and for how many photos? Like it or not, we’re a price-shopping bunch — and when we buy, we want to get the best deal. Thing is, it’s a terrible approach for photography. It’s just about reframing the conversation.
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June 3, 2021

Top 10 Father's Day Family Photography Packages in Victoria, BC

Capture the love between your family for Father's Day this year with one of Focal's top 10 packages in Victoria, BC, featuring some of the city's very best photographers. One of who will be the perfect fit for you and your family, so browse our packages and get your smile ready!
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November 20, 2023

Marketing 101 for Photographers: How to Build a Website that Drives Bookings

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November 23, 2020

So, you want to be a wedding photographer: 8 tips for shooting like a pro

Wedding photography comes with its perks: every day’s a celebration. But with that position comes pressure: how do you ensure you’re ready for such a milestone moment? We asked the most talented wedding photographers we know for their advice on how to shooting weddings like a pro.
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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!
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February 27, 2023

The Focal WPPI Packing List

Lindsay Coulter x Focal The Ultimate Not-a-Conference Las Vegas Packing List
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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!
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October 27, 2022

How to Write an "About Me" Bio for your Wedding Photography Website and Bio Examples to Inspire You

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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. 
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June 18, 2021

How to Find Your Picture Perfect Photographer with the Focal Marketplace

It’s hard to find your “picture perfect” photographer. Trust us, we know! That's why we created the Focal Marketplace. To make finding a photographer easy. Learn more about the Focal Marketplace and why you should use it to find your next photographer.
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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. 
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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!
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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.
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March 11, 2020

10 tips for creating a photography portfolio and packages that customers want to book

At Focal, we believe passionately that a photographer’s website and their “packages” are the two most important touch points to show customers what makes you special as a photographer. Here are Focal’s 10 tips to help you build a photography portfolio and packages that customers want to book.
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December 21, 2020

3 ways to fix your photography website

Having a website is crucial for professional photographers. But it’s not enough just to have one — if you want bookings, you need to make sure you’re doing it right.
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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.
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March 30, 2020

Introducing the new Focal marketplace platform

We heard photographers wanted their own branding and control over managing their portfolio and packages. They also wanted the ability to talk to customers directly. We put those things at the top of our development list. This isn’t just a new website and some software. It speaks to our responsibility to always improve, our value for art, and our never-ending commitment to our photographers.
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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. 
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April 1, 2020

Summary of COVID-19 government support benefits: a guide for BC photographers

Sadly, COVID-19 has had a huge negative impact on the photography industry with few, if any photoshoots taking place. This situation is not expected to resolve itself over the short-term. The following article details the COVID-19 government support initiatives which are most relevant to BC based photographers.
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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.
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