Advertise on podcast: The Photo Diaries Podcast

About This Episode Grace sits down with Hugh Stewart, a photographer and director with a 35+-year career spanning London, New York, Sydney & Melbourne. Hugh has worked for major magazines + brands  (Vogue, Vanity Fair, Dior), advertising agencies, and film companies including a long-running creative relationship with Baz Luhrmann on films like Elvis, Moulin Rouge, Gatsby, The Get Down and Chanel commercials and worked with Peter Jackson on Lord of the Rings. He opened an accessible portrait studio in Woollahra, Sydney, flipping the traditional high-pressure studio model on its head. In this conversation, he shares what he's learned about authenticity, connection, and surviving decades in a changing industry. The book Hugh mentions The Maverick Soul Links Grace Costa on Instagram: @gracecostaphotographerPhotographers Only Business Membership HEREHugh Stewart on Instagram: @hugh_stewart_This is membership is only for photographers who are done mucking around and sick of waiting for results. If you're ready to back yourself, build your business, and stop waiting for clients to find you, I’d love you to join me HERE.  Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

In this episode: What "bitch face vibes" means for your website and why it could be the reason clients ghost youThe homepage essentials: stating who you serve, who you are, and how you serve them all above the foldWhy missing your first name on your website and Instagram bio is turning people away before they even reach outHow to use AI (ChatGPT, Claude) to craft a succinct messaging statement that attracts your ideal clientThe importance of clear call-to-action buttons, readable font sizes, and enough copy to make visitors feel safe investing in youWhy even photographers using website templates (Squarespace, WordPress, Wix) still struggle to convert and what to do about itResources mentioned: Website Checklist — download your free first step HEREWebsite Audit Sessions — book a one-on-one audit with Grace HEREPhotographers Only Mentorship Community — monthly masterclasses, co-working sessions, and virtual coffee catch-ups. Doors are open now!Connect with Grace: Share this episode with a photographer friend using the share functionLeave a review so more photographers can find the podcastSubscribe to be notified when each new episode dropsSupport the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

In this debut Ask Grace segment, Grace Costa answers a listener question from a recent Pricing Blueprint workshop: What do you do when a client asks for something outside your skillset? Grace breaks down three ways to handle this situation: Learn it fast — Practice at home before the job (not recommended unless you're confident you can deliver).Hire a subcontractor — Bring in another photographer or videographer, pay them a portion of your quote, and keep the job under your production.Guide the client to their own solution — Say no politely, recommend other professionals, and let the client find their own answer.Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Photo Diaries Podcast, Grace Costa breaks down a common problem for photographers in business: not asking for the sale. From websites with no clear call-to-action buttons to social media posts that leave potential clients guessing, Grace explains why assuming people know you're open for business is costing you bookings and what to do about it. Mentioned in This Episode: Pricing Blueprint Live Class — A live class for photographers on building pricing you can stand behind and communicating it with confidence. Happening August 31st, 2026. $27. HEREPhotographers Only Mentorship — Grace's community for photographers looking to build a booked-out business. HEREAction Items for Listeners: Audit your website homepage is there a clear CTA button telling visitors what to do next?Review your last 5 social media posts did you include a call to action in the caption?Check your Instagram Stories are you telling people you're open for bookings?Look at your blog posts are there booking and pricing links in the copy?Test your enquiry-to-booking flow how many clicks does it take for a client to give you money?Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

Find out about the Photographers Only Mentorship Community HERE Episode Summary Grace walks through exactly how to create and run a headshot day a streamlined, profitable format that helped her grow her photography business early on. Whether you're a commercial, branding, wedding, or portrait photographer, this episode breaks down everything you need to set one up from scratch. Key Takeaways: Keep it simple for your first one solo, strip it back, white backgroundAlways send a booking reminder (day before, or week before + day before)Use the proof gallery as your upsell opportunityBuild a dedicated sales page with all details, pricing, and inclusionsPromote relentlessly across multiple formats (reels, video, slides, carousels)Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

Resources mentioned:  Website checklist HERE Google Listing Guide HERE The Photographers Only Membership HERE In this episode Grace Costa makes the case that websites are far from dead and in fact should be doing the heavy lifting for your photography business instead of relying on social media alone. Drawing from recent website reviews she conducted for Photographers Only members, Grace breaks down exactly what's missing from most photographer websites and how to fix it. This is membership is only for photographers who are done mucking around and sick of waiting for results. If you're ready to back yourself, build your business, and stop waiting for clients to find you, I’d love you to join me HERE.  Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

Ever freeze up mid-shoot, scrambling for your next pose idea while your client waits? In this episode of the Photo Diaries Podcast, Grace Koster shares the simple system she's used for over two decades to stop feeling rushed and stuck on set. You'll learn: Why simply drawing out compositions (even roughly) helps cement ideas in your memory so you don't need to reference notes on the dayHow to communicate with clients to buy yourself time and slow down without looking unprofessionalWhy taking a leadership role on set builds client trust and confidenceA real portfolio review example showing how small compositional tweaks (like repositioning someone hidden at the back of a group) can transform a family portraitWhy communication not just technical skill is the number one driver of five-star reviews, referrals, and repeat clientsThis episode is brought to you by the Photographers Only Membership  a monthly business membership for commercial photographers.  Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

In This Episode: Why networking doesn't have to mean stiff suits and business cards — there are so many modern formats (speed dating style, meet-and-mingle, lunches, breakfasts)How Grace approaches walking into a room where she doesn't know anyoneThe 7-step follow-up process Grace uses after collecting business cardsHow to craft a LinkedIn DM or email that feels genuine and personal — not salesyThe Instagram trick for connecting without directly handing out your cardWhy showing up consistently at events — even when you don't land a client — builds long-term brand recognitionGrace's story of a $75 networking breakfast that converted 3 women into paying branding photography clients (worth thousands of dollars)Why networking is a long game, not a quick fix — and why that's okayTips for introverts: bring a business buddy, make a beeline for the host, and just do the repsResources & Links: 🎓 Photographers Only Membership – Monthly group coaching, masterclasses, co-working sessions, and access to Grace's resources portal. Enrolments are open now! https://www.gracecosta.com/business-membership-for-photographers/📩 DM Grace on Instagram @gracecostaphotographer for a free Loom video tour of the membership This is membership is only for photographers who are done mucking around and sick of waiting for results. If you're ready to back yourself, build your business, and stop waiting for clients to find you, I’d love you to join me HERE.  Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

Difficult clients, we all have them at one point or another.  Ever get that stomach-drop feeling when a client messages you?  In the latest episode of Photo Diaries, I break down a real DM from a photographer struggling with a client who keeps demanding more, more, more. Spoiler: it usually comes down to pricing + boundaries. Grab the BONUS for this episode the Client Email Template Bundle to help you communicate your boundaries more clearly each and every time. GRAB IT HERE Looking for more support in your photography business. Take a look at the Photographers' Only Business Membership HERE Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

In this episode, Grace breaks down why building a team around you mentors, coaches, suppliers, friends, and family is the key to confidently scaling your photography business to the next level. In this episode, Grace covers: Why trying to "do it all yourself" will only get you so farThe mentors and coaches who shaped Grace's business from day one — and why she still invests in coaching every yearHow to identify the gaps in your business and find the right support to fill themWhy your camera shop, equipment suppliers, and industry partners count as part of your team tooThe role your personal support system (partner, friends, family) plays in your successHow to tell if you're "watering the garden" of your relationships — or just waiting aroundWhy your physical and mental wellbeing team matters just as much as your business teamA simple gratitude exercise to help you acknowledge the people helping you succeedHey friend, I want to invite you to join the Photographers Only Membership before the founder's price increase at the end of July 2026. Find out more about monthly group business coaching and marketing education for photographers in business with Grace Costa HERE Connect with Grace: Share who's on your team by sending a message on Instagram @gracecostaphotographer. Check the show notes for a special offer to join the Photographers-Only Membership, and sign up for the newsletter to be the first to hear about new resources and offers. Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

Hey friend, I want to invite you to join the Photographers Only Membership before the founder's price increase at the end of July 2026. Find out more about monthly group business coaching and marketing education for photographers in business with Grace Costa HERE In this episode, I take you through the major roadblocks holding you back from charging for a profitable business. The mindset shifts you need to make if you are serious about growing a business they takes care of you and your family.  Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

Hey friend, I want to invite you to join the Photographers Only Membership before the founder's price increase at the end of July 2026. Find out more about monthly group business coaching and marketing education for photographers in business with Grace Costa HERE Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

Hey friend, I want to invite you to join the Photographers Only Membership before the founder's price increase at the end of July 2026. Find out more about monthly group business coaching and marketing education for photographers in business with Grace Costa HERE Corporate Client Email Template Bundle $27 https://gracecostaphoto.myflodesk.com/vp5dn4sbfi  Many family photographers are being asked to shoot corporate headshots or service business clients and it’s a great revenue stream if you do it well. There is however a difference when dealing with families vs business and organisations and the language is different and expectatIons are different.  So I’ve build something to help you make the transition a little easier “ CORPRORATE EMAIL TEMPLATES is for you if you’ve never been in the corporate works and the communication and planning with corpaye clients feels dauting to you.  The bundle will set you up to confidently tackle any situation you may encounter.  Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/

Hey friend, I want to invite you to join the Photographers Only Membership before the founder's price increase. Find out more about monthly group business coaching and marketing education for photographers in business with Grace Costa HERE In this live episode of The Photo Diaries Podcast recorded at the WPPI photography conference, I sit down with Jessica Whitaker to unpack how she built a global photography brand through YouTube, SEO, and community-led marketing. From starting her YouTube channel in 2012 to creating the widely known Build and Bloom community, Jessica shares how she carved out space in the industry by making photography more accessible, inclusive, and searchable. If you’re a photographer who wants consistent leads without relying on social media, this conversation will completely shift how you think about visibility and marketing. Jessica's facebook group is here https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildandbloomjessicawhitaker Photography Business Mentoring with Grace https://www.gracecosta.com/photography-mentoring/ Follow Jessica Whitaker on IG https://www.instagram.com/jessicawhitaker/ Support the show Find Grace at www.gracecosta.com SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S ONLY NEWSLETTER https://www.gracecosta.com/subscribe/ DOWNLOAD THE FREEBIES https://www.gracecosta.com/resources/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/gracecostaphotographer/