Welcome to another exciting episode of The Outspoken Artist podcast, hosted by Jean Carlo! In this episode, we are thrilled to introduce Carl Bott, the mastermind behind Legacy Photo Company. Carl not only specializes in volume photography but is also a successful entrepreneur with a competitive edge that has propelled his business to become the largest high-volume photography company in Middle Tennessee.
Table of Contents
- From Humble Beginnings to Volume Photography Success
- Scaling the Business
- Building Partnerships
- Staffing Challenges and Solutions
- The Importance of Branding
- Upcoming Workshops and Mentorship Opportunities
- Final Thoughts
From Humble Beginnings to Volume Photography Success
Carl shares his incredible journey, starting with his move to Nashville in 2015. After working for a photography company in Michigan, he found himself in a challenging situation when his apartment flooded right after he arrived in Tennessee. With no place to stay and a broken car, he was determined to make it work. Carl’s sales background and photography skills paved the way for his entry into volume photography.
Scaling the Business
With a focus on process and efficiency, Carl explains how he scaled his company to photograph upwards of 100,000 kids in a single season. He emphasizes the importance of having a duplicatable process and how he leverages technology to streamline operations. His innovative solutions, such as a specialized floor mat for kids to stand on, save precious seconds during photo shoots, allowing for a more efficient workflow.
Building Partnerships
Carl discusses the significance of viewing his role as a partner rather than just a vendor in the leagues he works with. By building relationships and understanding the needs of coaches and parents, he creates a positive experience that leads to repeat business. He believes that success in this industry stems from being integrated into the community and offering solutions to their problems.
Staffing Challenges and Solutions
As Carl’s business grew, so did the need for a reliable team. He shares insights into when to start hiring and how to find the right people for the job. With a focus on creating a supportive work environment, he discusses the balance between hiring locally and utilizing virtual assistants to handle administrative tasks.
The Importance of Branding
Branding plays a crucial role in Carl’s success. He reflects on how his initial business name, CB Sports Photography, limited his growth potential. By rebranding to Legacy Photo Company, he was able to expand his services beyond sports photography to include dance and school photography, creating a cohesive brand identity that resonates with clients.
Upcoming Workshops and Mentorship Opportunities
Carl is passionate about sharing his knowledge with aspiring photographers. He discusses his upcoming three-day workshop in Nashville, where participants will learn about sales strategies, live shooting techniques, and efficient processing methods. This hands-on experience is designed to equip photographers with the tools they need to succeed in the volume photography business.
Final Thoughts
As the conversation wraps up, Carl emphasizes the importance of taking action and not letting fear hold you back. His mantra, “think big, strive for failure, and no excuses,” serves as inspiration for anyone looking to make their mark in the photography industry. You can find more about Carl and his workshops on social media and his website.
For more engaging episodes of The Outspoken Artist, be sure to check out our website at outspokenartist.com. You can also find us on various podcast platforms!
FAQ
- What is volume photography? Volume photography refers to the practice of photographing large groups of people, such as sports teams or school classes, often in a streamlined and efficient manner.
- How can I get started in volume photography? Begin by understanding the processes involved, invest in the right technology, and focus on building relationships within local sports leagues or schools.
- Are there any upcoming workshops by Carl Bott? Yes, Carl will be hosting a three-day workshop in Nashville, focusing on sales, live shooting, and processing techniques.
To stay updated on Carl Bott’s work, follow him on social media and check out FIFINE microphones for high-quality audio recording options.
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