This week on the show, I’m chatting with Jeff — a PPA Master Photographer, Craftsman, educator, and author of 2, soon to be 3, books including “The Professional Photography Playbook: Mastering Portrait Photography, Branding and Business Success.” Jeff is has been one of the most successful portrait photographers in the US for 40 years and counting. His classic style and tried and true business structure has kept his photography studio earning high 6 figures and even 7, while giving him time to golf, teach, write, and enjoy life.

We talk about what happened when he left his government job to chase his dream of becoming a full-time photographer. He turned that leap into a 40+ year career full of awards, sold-out sessions, and major industry influence.

And with 80 years of experience between us and a passion for helping others, we “commiserate” on what it takes to start and sustain a highly profitable portrait photography business and all the joys it brings.

We’re talking about:

• Why branding, client relationships, and a recognizable style are your best business tools
• The secret sauce behind genuine expressions and timeless portraits
• Why continuous learning (even after 40 years!) is non-negotiable
• And how Jeff’s new book can help you build a stronger, more profitable business

Whether you’re new to the industry or have been behind the camera for decades, this episode is full of aha moments, business gold, and inspiration to keep going — and growing.

Find Jeff’s book, The Professional Photography Playbook, on Amazon

Follow Jeff on YouTube for more tips and stories

Hit play and let’s talk portraits, passion, and making your mark.

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

• Website
• Email: luci@lucidumas.com
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

New episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.

What if your creativity isn’t something you have to chase… but something you can invite in, every single day?

This week, I’m joined by the wonderfully unique and inspiring Elizabeth Toller — a Certified Professional Photographer, fine artist, intuitive life coach, Reiki healer, tarot reader, and speaker on creativity as a lifestyle. She calls herself your “quirky guide to a more creative life,” and trust me, this conversation is exactly the kind of spark your creative heart has been waiting for.

In this episode, we dig into big ideas and practical tools, including:

1. The power of personal projects — why they’re more than just “side” work and how they can elevate your business, art, and life
2. How to turn everyday habits into intentional rituals that actually support your creative flow
3. The surprising role of creative daydreaming — and how it can make you more productive, not less
4. Why decluttering your mind is just as important as decluttering your space
5. Small steps to overcome doubt and start listening to the voice that lifts you up, not the one that holds you back
6. How to build a support system that fuels your momentum and keeps you inspired

Whether you’re deep in your photography business or just trying to find your creative rhythm again, Beth brings a fresh perspective that will help you simplify, focus, and reconnect with your artistic purpose.

This one’s all about possibility, purpose, and practical magic.

Connect with Beth:

www.elizabethtoller.com

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

• Website
• Email: luci@lucidumas.com
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

New episodes drop every week — make sure to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring guest or a powerful solo episode designed to help you grow your photography business.

Well, it is the fourth episode after three incredible interviews with brilliant and fun photographers. So it is time to go solo and dive into one of my absolute favorite topics… COLOR!

Color isn’t just pretty—it’s powerful. It tells stories, creates mood, attracts clients, and makes your photography truly stand out.

In this episode, I share some basic color science you probably learned in first grade. I touch on the emotional impact color gives us, and also how to use color intentionally in your work, whether you're shooting portraits, building your brand, or just want your images to have more oomph and emotional impact.

Here’s what I’m covering in this fun, colorful conversation:

• Why color is one of the most important tools in your creative toolbox
• How color combos and tones affect how people feel when they look at your photos, OR your branding
• How artists (and photographers) use color to create signature styles
• Tips for using color in your client work—from wardrobe to wall portraits
• Easy color challenges to inspire your creativity and find your personal vibe

I hope that after listening or watching the video, you never quite see the world, and your art in the same way!

You are awesome, by the way! Luci

Connect with Photography Business Coach Luci Dumas:

• Website
• Email: luci@lucidumas.com
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube