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"Find out how to start your own photography business, create a waiting-list of clients hungry for your photographic services,
make money doing what you love,
and make this the best year ever! "
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From: Cindy Bracken

Dear Fellow Photographer,

Are you frustrated that your business is not reaching the levels of success you know it should be? Don't worry...It happens to all of us. We start out with dreams of making it big ... wanting the freedom that comes with owning our own business...and, of course, making a lot of money!

Instead, we often end up confused about how to get started, how to find clients, and how to grow our businesses.

In fact, starting and growing your own photography business can be much more difficult that you ever imagined, unless you understand this one critical principle...

You Aren't Just In The Photography Business,
You Are In the MARKETING Business!

That's right. If you don't have strong marketing skills it doesn't matter how talented a photographer you are. No one will ever know because they either aren't receiving your message or aren't compelled to to business with you because your message isn't effective.

The good news is...when you become an effective marketer, your business will grow like wildfire.

And don't worry. If you don't have your photography business started yet, I will show you EXACTLY how to get started.

My name is Cindy Bracken and I have to tell you, I had no idea how to go about starting my own photography business a few years ago. While my photography skills were solid, I would have given anything to become a quick success at the business aspect. What did I do? I did it the old fashioned way. RESEARCH...and lots of it. Lucky for me, my dad, who has been a professional photographer for over 40 years, was there to guide me.

Soon I was able to turn my love of photography into a successful home-based portrait photography business. I work only when I want to and I am my own boss. I am also able to stay home with my children (the best part of all!). Do you dream of doing the same?

Well, because one of my passions is to teach (I'm a former public school teacher), I made it my mission to painstakingly break down the process of starting and growing a successful photography business...and shuttermom.com was born.

Shuttermom.com has been in the business of helping photographers achieve their dreams since 2004. Since that time, thousands of photographers have found the advice, tips, and solid information that they need to start their photography businesses from my hugely popular (and now retired) Shuttermom Gold Package. Yes - thousands of you purchased the now retired Gold Package and are enjoying the freedom that comes with your very own photography business. A heart-felt "thank you" to all of you!! You can see what everyone had to say about the Gold Package here.

As successful as the Gold Package was, it was time for something new and exciting...

Introducing Shuttermom University:
The Definitive Step-by-Step Guide To
Starting and Growing Your Own
Portrait Photography Business

"The Shuttermom University is an invaluable resource for my up and coming photography business. It is loaded with ideas and answers to questions that I didn't even know I would have."

-Tabitha McCorkle, Lynch Station, VA 

"I have read many different start your own photography business books, and none compare to Shutter Mom University.  Cindy gives you a wealth of information to get your business going.  Thank you Shutter Mom University!"

-Janel James, Texarkana, TX

 

Maybe you are just starting out, dreaming about quitting that day-job to start your own successful, home-based portrait photography business. You know you have the talent and ambition, but you just aren't sure where to start! Shuttermom University IS FOR YOU.

Maybe you already have your business up and running, but just need that extra "boost" to get the customers rolling in. Shuttermom University is for you, too!

I love to show people how uncomplicated the process of starting and growing your business really can be. I know you can do it if you just follow my footsteps...it's really very easy!

Remember: In Order To Succeed, Photographers
Must Also Be Great Marketers!

You could be the best photographer in the world, but you won't sell anything unless you have someone to sell to! You must be a successful marketer if you want to make a great living doing what you love - photography

As a member of Shuttermom University, every month you will receive insider secrets that will allow you to:

  • Magically attract customers dying to do business with you

  • Get ahead of the competition not armed with your knowledge

  • Build trust in your customers so that they become repeat-clients

  • Make a great income from doing what you love - portrait photography!

"Cindy, I just LOVE Shuttermom University!! I can’t believe how much information there is on how to get your business up and running and all the great tips on how to build an exceptional portfolio, market your business and attract clientele. Anyone who subscribes to Shuttermom University will find a great wealth of information and more!"

-Tina Epperson San Pedro, California 
 

"Although I had been studying photography for a over four years, my lack of knowledge on how to start up my own business and my fear that I would fail was enough to prevent me from turning this passion into a career. It was all of the information, resources and ideas in Cindy's lessons that gave me the confidence and the tools that I needed to finally launch my own photography business. Cindy taught me that success in this field is not based on talent alone, but to a greater extent on how effectively you market yourself. In her courses Cindy teaches you how to market yourself and provides invaluable information in a step by step fashion that is so easy to follow and she does not hold anything back. She also provides references and resources so that you can get started so much faster without all of the confusion and frustration of researching everything yourself. Cindy presents so many wonderful marketing and promotional ideas but also goes into incredible detail on how to implement these ideas with samples of her own promotional cards and brochures which we can adapt for our own use. Shuttermom University is a one stop shop for those wanting to get into the business of photography and also has so much valuable information for those already working in the field."

-Ashifa Virani

 

4 reasons why you need Shuttermom University:

1) You want to get your photo business going, but don't know where to begin. I have done all the research for you, including all those "red tape" steps you will need to take (there aren't that many), the basic equipment you will need and where exactly to find it, how to manage your office, and how to set up your studio (complete with diagrams). It makes no difference if you plan to have your studio in your home (as I do!) or rent a studio in town!

2) You aren't sure how to go about finding clients. This is my specialty! I have all the portrait business I can handle thanks to my unique and fun marketing ideas. These ideas are simple to put into practice and will bring a flood of customers to your door!

3) You want the freedom that comes from owning your own business and doing what you love! Once you get your portrait photography business booming, you'll never look back. The information I provide you can really change your life! Stop working for someone else and start enjoying life!

4) You want a personal business coach who has "been there - done that." I'm sharing all of my secrets and won't be holding anything back! I truly want you to succeed!

Shuttermom University - What Is It?

"Shuttermom University gives ALOT of information for just $27 a month...it is totally worth it. I've already learned several ideas to help me market my photo business, and I like how Cindy gives a preview of what is coming in future months. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who wants to start their photography business or get more customers with their current business."
- Jackie J. Phoenix, AZ
 

"Everything i could possibly need to know about running a photography business is right here at shuttermom university. I feel confident that I can now start my own business and do well."

-Tina Disney

 

When you enroll in Shuttermom University, you will be well on your way to a successful portrait photography business! Shuttermom University is a membership-based community that delivers fresh content to you every month, specifically designed to help portrait photographers start and increase their business with easy to implement ideas and instructions.

Once you are a member, you will be able to log on to the membership site 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Imagine the excitement of implementing a brand new marketing technique every month, armed with all of the tools and information that you need. Imagine the peace-of-mind that comes from knowing that you won't have to do it all yourself...I'll be with you every step of the way!

I'm holding nothing back and will reveal ALL of my secrets to making money with your very own successful photography business!

"I just joined Shuttermom University and I am so impressed with what Cindy Bracken has put together! I was so excited, in fact, that I immediately planned a "portrait party." I am so excited to see where my new business will go as I use all the great ideas she has given me. I am truly inspired!"

-Shannon Worgan, Shannon Worgan Photography, Littleton Colorado
 

Here's Just A Small Sampling of What You'll Get
When You Enroll In Shuttermom University

Month One:


1. Starting Your Photography Business - The COMPLETE Step-by-Step Guide

I know you're busy. Don't panic! You don't have the time to spend long hours researching "red-tape procedures" and equipment, attending seminars or reading book after book on photography like I did. The good news is you don't have to! I've done all the work for you. You will have everything you need to know right at your fingertips and can get your business going in just a few days!


2. How To Price Your Photography For Maximum Profit

Not sure what to charge for your photography? I'll tell you why pricing too low is a huge mistake! This guide will help you set up your price list in no time flat. Includes my most recent price list along with suggestions on creating your own. I'll show you how being afraid to charge what you are worth may be holding you back!


3. What You Need To Know About Proofing and Packaging

The way you show proofs and package finished portraits can have a huge impact on your business. Avoid common mistakes and become a pro at proofing and packaging!


4. Portfolio Build and Make Money, Too - An Idea That Brought In $3,200 in 1 Week

Just because you are portfolio-building doesn't mean you can't make money, too! This will also work if you are past the portfiolio-building stage and want a quick way to get customers and increase sales. Don't miss it! This is the fastest way to get new customers...especially if you are just starting out. Maybe you are just experiencing a slow period with your business and need a jump-start. This simple photography marketing idea brought me 15 portrait sessions in just a matter of days, each one with an average sale of $200 - $250! You can make more or less depending on your pricing structure. What is so great about this is that it also creates a “word of mouth” buzz about you! This is a great way to start and requires very little effort on your part! EASY!


5. Your Website: Content Is King

Content: What it is and why you need it to be ahead of your competition! If you only have images and general info (contact info, pricing) on your website, then YOU MUST READ THIS.


6. Bonus Promotional Idea - Celebrity Swag

Take a marketing idea from Hollywood and tailor it to your photography business!

7. Bonus Special Report: 10 Marketing Ideas To Use NOW

Put these low cost / no cost marketing ideas to work for you and watch your photography business grow!

Month Two:

1. Portrait Parties - EVERYTHING you need to get started

Do You Want To Break Into the Hottest New Trend In Portrait Photography, Watch Your Business Explode, and Create a Huge Client Base? Let Me Show You How I Did It!

When I first started my home studio, getting enough clients was a problem. While I had a few here and there, I failed to consistently fill my appointment book with sessions. I needed a system that allowed me to:

  • Book more clients
  • Gain "word of mouth" advertising
  • Stand out among other photographers
  • Work less on marketing
  • Make MORE money!

With the popularity of home parties for scrapbooking, home decor, and jewelry as my inspiration, I devised a Portrait Party plan that soon was allowing me to do all of the above! The best part was that I could make more money in less time! I schedule the parties around my schedule and only work when I choose, taking time off for my family whenever needed! Now I can make in just one day what used to take a week or more.

Information includes:

  • what equipment you will need and where to find it
  • studio lighting diagrams
  • getting your website together
  • how to market your portrait parties
  • how to find someone to host a portrait party (and the incentive they won't be able to refuse!)
  • pricing
  • packaging
  • proofing
  • legally setting up your business
  • how to run a portrait party, step by step
  • list of resources for lab processing, equipment, albums, photo jewelry, photo purses, online proofing, direct mail lists, and more!

I'm also including a copy of my special "brochure book" that I use to market my parties, a copy of the hostess manual that I give to people hosting the parties, and samples of my marketing cards. You are free to copy all of my wording or change it how you see fit.


2. Getting A Website - Where To Begin?

What you MUST know before getting you website going. Start your website off right!


3. Copy WRITING - How To Write Copy That Sells

The key to writing copy that will bring you business! Includes sample phrase list and copywriting "blueprint" to create winning copy.

4. Video: How To Build Trust and Turn Prospects Into Repeat-Customers

This is something that you simply MUST DO in order to increase your business. It can be set up quickly and easily, but without it you are leaving money on the table! Find out what it is inside.

5. Using Blogs To Market Your Business

Blogs allow you to be viewed as an expert, attract new customers, improve your search engine ranking, and build a community for your business. I'll tell you how to start a blog if you don't have one already, give you concrete ideas on what to blog about (while increasing your customer base!), and how to market your business using your blog!

 

Month Three:

1.Your Guide To Photographing Weddings - Start to Finish

This 32 page guide will tell you, step-by-step, what you need to begin your wedding photography business. Everything you need to know is there, including:

  • equipment
  • what labs to use
  • info on establishing your business
  • contracts
  • hiring help
  • getting experience when you have none
  • building a portfolio
  • establishing a pricing structure (and getting paid what you're worth!)
  • marketing your wedding photography business (getting customers!)
  • "sealing the deal"
  • photographing a wedding from start to finish (a step-by-step guide)
  • posing suggestions
  • tips to save money on equipment

Who is Gary Howard? Gary has been a successful portrait studio owner and an award-winning wedding photographer for over 40 years and has photographed literally thousands of weddings. He also happens to be my dad! Let his experience guide you as you step into the exciting world of wedding photography. He's seen it all and he doesn't hold anything back!


2. How To Effectively Brand Your Business

What is branding? Basically, it is the way your customer thinks OF your business, what your customer thinks ABOUT your business, and how your customer FEELS about your business. Want customers to have faith in you, your ability, and your reputation? You must create an effective brand. I'll show you how!


3. Double Your Sales By Using Psychological Triggers - Pt 1

Increase sales when you know how to put these psychological triggers to work!


4. Using Pay-Per-Click Advertising To Drive Traffic To Your Website

Put the power of pay-per-click advertising to work for you. I'll show you exactly how to get started. This is a powerful way to get clients calling you immediately.

5. Dominate Your Market Using Twitter - Pt 1

Social media marketing is quickly replacing mainstream marketing. Don't be left behind! This is an in-depth training on getting started with Twitter, and how you can use Twitter to market your business.

Month Four:


1. Maternity Photography and Baby Plans - How to Tie Them Together For Repeat Business

Maternity / Baby Plans are a GREAT money maker for your studio. Tie these two plans together for big profits! I'll show you how, step by step.

2. Successfully Branding Your Photography Business - Pt 2

More on how to make your brand stand out and work for you!


3. Double Your Sales by Using Psychological Triggers - Pt 2

Part two of my series on psychological triggers. Put these to use and watch your sales grow!


4. Dominate Your Market Using Twitter - Pt 2

More on how to "twitter" yourself to bigger photography profits!


5. How To Use Press Releases To Boost Your Business

Press releases are a POWERFUL tool for public relations and publicity. However, to get journalist's attention, you must know HOW to properly construct a press release. I'll show you exactly how to do it!

 

Month Five:

1.  Facebook Marketing for Photographers

Use the power of Facebook to get and keep more clients!


2.  Sample client welcome letter (you are free to use this as you wish).

A professionally copywritten letter for you to send to clients. You are free to use or modify this however you'd like!

3.  How to design a top ten list for your website.

A top ten list is a great way to add content to your website, and it answers client's questions as well.


4.  Prepared answers to common questions you will receive as a photographer

Never be "stuck" for an answer again! Now you'll know exactly what to say when faced with some tough questions that every photographer receives from potential clients from time to time.

More info is added every month!

Members-Only Bonuses!

From time to time, I'm also adding bonuses in the members-only section. Take a look at what has already been added (P.S. These are available with your VERY FIRST MONTH of membership!) Check them out below:

Bonuses

10 Marketing Ideas You Can Use NOW!  Put these ten no-cost or low-cost marketing ideas into practice and watch your business grow.

The Portrait Photographer's Ultimate Pricing Guide!  Never guess about pricing your work again. This is the same guide that sells on shuttermom.com for $97 (see it here), but it is FREE to Shuttermom University members.

Video: Getting More Traffic To Your Site:  What Are Keywords and How Should You Choose Them?

Revealing Interview With Photographer and Business-Woman Skye Hardwick.

Social Media Portrait Events: What they are, how they work, and how they can increase your portrait business!

Fundraising Portrait Events: How to make a lot of money, photograph tons of families, and create word of mouth buzz about your business - all while helping the organization of your choice! I'll tell you excactly what you need to do.

 

And MUCH more to come!

 

"Thank you for such a wonderful program. I look forward to growing my business due to the different perspective you've given me on website content. I also look forward to expanding my presence in our community via "Celebrity Swag". Thank you for all that you do to make us the best that we can be!"

-Suzanne McClendon, Wharton, TX

Click Here To Claim Your Membership


BONUS:
Connect With Other Like-Minded Photographers
In The Private Members-Only Forum

As part of your membership in Shuttermom University, you'll be able to connect with a community of other photographers just like you! A password and directions to the private forum will be included with your membership.

Let Me Be Your Own Personal Business Coach

Armed with the marketing information you'll discover in Shuttermom University, you will not have to worry about where your next client will come from! You can choose to work as little or as much as you'd like. Imagine actually having to turn clients away and create a waiting list for your services! And remember, all this can be done right from your own home - no fancy studio needed - unless you want one.

Ready To Claim Your Membership?

It couldn't be easier or more affordable. For just $27 a month (that's less than one dollar a day!), you will have full access to everything you need to get your business off the ground and running smoothly. Your credit card or PayPal account will be charged every 30 days, and you may cancel at any time (although I know you won't want to cancel once you see all of the great info that's included!).

PLEASE NOTE: THIS PRICE WON"T LAST!

Why? The $27 monthly price is an introductory special for the first 350 members that sign up. After we have our first 350 members, the price will increase dramatically. Don't wait! Reserve your spot while there are still some remaining.

Update: We are up to 274 members as of June 1st, 2009. Creeping closer to the 350 cut-off!

Click Here To Claim Your Membership
and choose to pay either using PayPal or my secure shopping cart
(if you are ordering from outside the US, please use PayPal).

Watch the short video below where I personally show you how easy
it is to become a member

 

Claim Your Membership By Clicking Here

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