Make Your Systems Hum with Leandra Brown
Clubhouse Conversation: Leandra Brown
In the latest episode of the Portrait System Podcast: Clubhouse Edition, Kevin Conde and Ashleigh Taylor chat with Leandra Brown of Leandra Brown Photography in Washington D.C. about how to implement systems that make your business hum. Leandra is so organized in her business and so articulate in explaining that organization. As well, Kevin and Ashleigh’s questions really help dig into the nitty gritty of how and why to use different apps and software to keep track of each stage of the work flow in a busy photography business.
Be sure to listen to the whole podcast to hear all about CRM, Customer Relations Management software including:
- what to look for when choosing one,
- what special features you can activate to save lots of time and keep track of everything,
- what apps can help you integrate CRM with your personal email,
- how to customize those emails to match your personal brand,
- how to integrate CRM with your website,
- how to sync it with your google calendar,
- how to use it to stay organized with your HMUA and re-touchers,
- how it can help you keep up with your invoices,
- all the useful data it provides you on profits and expenses,
- how to use all that great data to make your business more profitable,
- and even when it might be helpful to get out of the CRM software and onto a good-old fashioned white board.
Additionally, you’ll find out great questions to ask your clients before your session, as well as what is useful to have in a questionnaire versus a phone call. This podcast is brimming with practical information explained clearly that will help you get your business systems humming! You won’t want to miss it if you’re ready to make some changes that make your ship go faster.
In this blog, you’ll find some of Leandra’s beautiful pictures, links to her websites, and answers to some bonus questions, too.
To join us live every Friday for conversations on Clubhouse and have a chance to have your questions answered, search “The Portrait System” in the Clubhouse App and follow us there.
Get to Know Leandra Brown
Q: When did you first come across Sue Bryce Education and how has it affected your career?
A: I first learned about Sue Bryce during her 28 Days class on Creative Live. I followed her for years and joined Sue Bryce Education. When I started following Sue, I was primarily a wedding photographer. I photographed portrait sessions sporadically throughout the years but didn’t fully commit to the Sue Bryce business model until the end of 2019. Taking that leap has completely changed my business for the better, and I wish I had done it sooner.
Q: When first starting out, many photographers hit roadblocks on their journey to starting their business – whether feeling their equipment isn’t good enough or feeling they need a studio to start a business. What roadblocks did you encounter and how did you get over them?
A: Self-value was my biggest roadblock. I had a hard time receiving money. So that was the biggest hurdle I had to overcome. It took a very long time to believe in the service that I provided and that I was worthy of receiving money
Q: How do you feel about your current work/life balance?
A: Work/life balance is always a work in progress, but I think I am currently in a great place. Setting boundaries and setting specific days for photoshoots has helped me balance it all.
Q: What (beyond money) has owning a business given you?
A: Owning a business has given me freedom and flexibility with my schedule. It’s allowed me to meet and work with some amazing people, and it’s given me some incredible experiences. It has taught me that I am stronger than I ever thought I was and that I am capable of making my dreams come true.
Q: What is your favorite advice that you’ve been given along your journey that has helped you the most?
A: My favorite advice that I have been given is not to be afraid to take risks and that it doesn’t have to be 100% perfect before you start. Done is better than perfect. Just start! Start where you are. Taking action, no matter how small, messy, or imperfect it is, is better than not starting at all.
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Leandra Brown of Leandra Brown Photography