Podcast thumbnail for Hocus-Focus

by The Mamones

5.0(7 reviews)
11 episodes
Updated Daily
Accepts GuestsHas SponsorsLocation 🇺🇸

Podcast Overview

The Podcast for Photographers and Videographers Ready to Add Corporate Clients to Their Studio<br><br>You started your photography business doing something you truly loved. And for a while, it was everything. But somewhere between the long weekends and the late-night edits, the dream started to feel more like a nightmare.<br><br>The answer isn't a better marketing strategy, a lower price point, or grinding through another wedding season hoping things change. It's a market you've been overlooking — one built on recurring revenue, professional budgets, and clients who respect your time, value your expertise, and come back year after year. The corporate market. And it's far more accessible than you've been led to believe.<br><br>Hosts Don and Emily Mamone proved it. After nearly two decades at the intersection of art and entrepreneurship — including almost ten years in the wedding market — they did the math, made the hard call, and rebuilt their studio entirely in the corporate space. That decision changed everything. Hocus-Focus is how they're sharing every secret with you.<br><br>Each week, Don and Emily challenge the misconceptions keeping photographers and videographers stuck, and deliver the strategic insights, honest conversations, and practical tools the industry actually needs. You'll learn how to differentiate your business, build a client base that generates recurring revenue, and create a brand that consistently attracts clients who appreciate you, respect your time, and value your work.<br><br>Monthly, they sit down with industry-leading photographers, creatives, and entrepreneurs who've cracked the code and built exactly what they wanted — sharing what's actually working, what isn't, and what it really takes to succeed.<br><br>After nearly two decades living at the intersection of artist and entrepreneur, Don and Emily have seen and heard it all. There were tears of frustration and fear — and plenty of laughter too. It took hard work, a little luck, and what they can only describe as a certain measure of magic to get where they are today. And where you'll be soon.<br><br>So if any of this sounds familiar, you're in the right place. Subscribe to Hocus-Focus — because Don and Emily are about to get loud and unapologetic about building the business and life you truly want, doing what you really love.<br><br>New episodes every week. Real strategies. Honest stories. Practical tools. And a firm belief that with the right knowledge, the right mindset, and just a little bit of magic — what feels impossible right now is closer than you think.

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Publishing Since

5/1/2026

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Recent Episodes

Episode thumbnail for What's Actually In Our Corporate Camera Bag

July 28, 2026

What's Actually In Our Corporate Camera Bag

<p>EPISODE SUMMARY</p><p>If you’ve ever stalled on pitching or accepting corporate work because you feared your gear wasn’t “good enough,” this episode is a breath of fresh air. You’ll get a no-BS look at the actual tools, lenses, and accessories Don and Emily use—and why simplicity and intention will always matter more than expensive upgrades. Get ready to build real confidence about the equipment you already own, and debunk what really matters for photographing corporate events.</p><p><br></p><p>WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE</p><ul><li>Hear the real criteria for choosing camera bodies and why mirrorless systems offer crucial advantages in corporate environments.</li><li>Learn why your lenses matter more than your camera body, and the specific glass that saves you money and stress.</li><li>Pick up step-by-step advice on lighting, including strategies for everything from well-lit ballrooms to nightmare breakout rooms.</li><li>Build your own checklist of can’t-leave-home-without-them accessories that go beyond photography gear.</li><li>Understand how redundancy, battery management, and the right memory cards protect your work (and reputation) from disaster.</li><li>Master techniques for using affordable primes and zooms to create images nobody else at the event can capture.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>KEY TAKEAWAYS</p><ul><li>Most photographers already have the gear they need to get started in corporate work—knowledge and intentionality matter more than any upgrade.</li><li>You don’t have to buy every piece of equipment new; borrowing, renting, and buying used are all on the table.</li><li>Never scrimp on memory cards—your backups are non-negotiable when shooting paid events.</li><li>Lighting is rarely ideal—your flexibility in using speedlights, stands, and modifiers on the fly is what sets you apart.</li><li>Your bag should always include the practical things—gum, snacks, tape, and lens cloths—because you’re supporting people, not just making pictures.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>TOPICS COVERED WITH TIMESTAMPS</p><p>[00:00] Why what’s in your bag actually matters for corporate event photography</p><p>[00:02:27] The biggest fears and misconceptions about gear when switching from weddings/socials</p><p>[00:05:26] Camera brand loyalty, mirrorless benefits, and working with what fits you</p><p>[00:07:09] The workhorse lenses: 70-200mm f/2.8, 24-70mm f/2.8, and why fast glass counts</p><p>[00:12:01] Specialty primes—when and why to use 16mm, 35mm, and the “Thrifty Fifty”</p><p>[00:19:35] Lighting essentials: balancing available, stage, and supplemental flash</p><p>[00:23:14] Lighting setups for breakouts vs. ballroom, and managing client expectations</p><p>[00:30:14] Everything else you need in your bag: snacks, gaff tape, lens cloths, more</p><p>[00:33:15] Camera batteries, memory cards, and mission-critical redundancy</p><p>[00:35:35] Why aftermarket flashes may serve you better than brand-name units</p><p>[00:37:02] Cards, backups, and why you never cut corners on digital storage</p><p>[00:41:08] Bags, grips, and how your setup becomes personal—and efficient</p><p><br></p><p>RESOURCES &amp; LINKS MENTIONED</p><ul><li>Camera brands: Canon, Sony, Nikon</li><li>Flashes: Godox, Westcott</li><li>Local retailers: Competitive Camera, Arlington Camera</li><li>Miscellaneous: SanDisk Extreme SD cards, Rocket Air puffer, Manfrotto monopod</li></ul><p><br></p><p>CONNECT WITH DON &amp; EMILY</p><p>http://themamones.com</p><p>https://www.instagram.com/themamones</p><p>http://sheddingthewedding.com</p>

Episode thumbnail for How We Keep Clients Loyal (and Why It Matters)

July 21, 2026

How We Keep Clients Loyal (and Why It Matters)

<h2>EPISODE SUMMARY</h2><p>You know how exhausting it is chasing one-and-done clients and constantly hustling for your next booking. This episode gives you clear, actionable ways to build true loyalty and recurring revenue, so you can spend less time hustling and more time doing creative work you actually love. You'll hear real strategies you can use to keep clients coming back — and learn how to stand out in a crowded market by making your relationships unforgettable.</p><p><br></p><h2>WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE</h2><ul><li>Recognize why corporate clients offer more repeat business and how to build genuine loyalty outside the wedding world</li><li>Learn exactly what to say to clients to encourage repeat bookings, even when their events move to new cities</li><li>Use simple, authentic digital touchpoints that keep you top of mind without feeling salesy or awkward</li><li>Build creative appreciation campaigns that your clients will remember — and share</li><li>Identify immediate ways to turn referrals and partnerships into long-term opportunities</li><li>Translate your existing relationship skills into a business model that scales, so you’re not starting from scratch every year</li></ul><p><br></p><h2>KEY TAKEAWAYS</h2><ul><li>“It’s always easier — and cheaper — to keep your current client than find a new one.”</li><li>One line in your follow-up can mean thousands in repeat business: “Please don’t wait till you come back to Dallas. We serve our loyal clients anywhere in the world.”</li><li>When you make clients feel like rockstars, they’ll remember you (and brag about you) for years.</li><li>Staying top of mind is about intentional, thoughtful outreach — not relentless selling.</li><li>Even lost leads are opportunities for future connection, not rejection.</li></ul><h2><br></h2><h2>TOPICS COVERED WITH TIMESTAMPS</h2><p>[00:00] Opening, coffee not sinking in, and 17th anniversary reflections</p><p>[00:18] Loyalty in marriage and business — the “I still do” mindset</p><p>[00:53] How loyalty translates to client retention and recurring revenue</p><p>[03:36] Why wedding photography struggles to create repeat clients</p><p>[04:55] The shift to corporate work and how one line changed everything</p><p>[06:03] How to get clients to bring you with them as they move events</p><p>[07:18] The power of repeat business for a scalable business model</p><p>[09:03] Building professional networks that lead to more referrals</p><p>[10:54] Shifting from capturing people to capturing experiences</p><p>[12:57] Two low-effort, high-impact strategies for staying in touch</p><p>[14:42] Using LinkedIn for client relationships and the Corporate Client Capture System</p><p>[17:12] Email tactics: Following up on lost business and celebration messages</p><p>[19:04] How the LinkedIn Playbook can change your outreach game</p><p>[21:15] Personalizing your communication based on actual client activity</p><p>[22:45] Creative client appreciation campaigns that go viral</p><p>[26:16] The “Rocktober” campaign — making loyalty fun and unforgettable</p><p>[29:14] Collaboration over competition: thanking referral partners</p><p>[29:42] Measuring loyalty and why it matters for your brand</p><p>[31:08] Fresh ideas for showing client appreciation year-round</p><p>[31:37] Inviting listener stories and sharing best practices</p><p>[31:56] Where to get the LinkedIn Playbook and a final call to action</p><h2><br></h2><h2>RESOURCES &amp; LINKS MENTIONED</h2><ul><li>The LinkedIn Playbook: <a href="https://themamones.com/playbook" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">themamones.com/playbook</a></li><li>Corporate Client Capture System: <a href="https://sheddingthewedding.com/?utm_source=podcast&amp;utm_medium=shownotes&amp;utm_campaign=cccs-vsl&amp;utm_content=09" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sheddingthewedding.com</a></li><li>Image delivery platforms: Pixieset, ShootProof</li><li>Pinterest (for photographers still in the wedding market)</li></ul><h2><br></h2><h2>CONNECT WITH DON &amp; EMILY</h2><p><a href="https://themamones.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">themamones.com</a></p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/themamones" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/themamones</a></p>

Episode thumbnail for How to Build Lasting Relationships That Attract Corporate Clients

July 14, 2026

How to Build Lasting Relationships That Attract Corporate Clients

<h2>EPISODE SUMMARY</h2><p>You’ve built a portfolio you’re proud of, but breaking into the corporate and professional market still feels out of reach. In this episode, you’ll get a roadmap for turning that portfolio into relationships, referrals, and real business opportunities. You’ll learn exactly how to connect with the right people, show up where it matters, and stay top of mind — even if you’re starting from scratch.</p><h2><br></h2><h2>WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE</h2><ul><li>Uncover practical ways to shift your focus from one-and-done social clients to long-term corporate relationships.</li><li>Learn how to use relationship marketing to get in front of decision-makers without feeling pushy or awkward.</li><li>Identify which industry associations and meetings can actually move the needle for your photography or videography business.</li><li>Master the right way to follow up and stay on people’s radar — no cold calls or spammy networking required.</li><li>Discover the power of collaboration and referrals among fellow photographers, and how to make those connections count.</li><li>Get actionable steps for using LinkedIn strategically to track contacts, nurture leads, and land recurring business.</li></ul><h2><br></h2><h2>KEY TAKEAWAYS</h2><ul><li>Relationship marketing is a long game, but it leads to loyal, recurring clients who bring you back again and again.</li><li>Industry association meetings offer a roomful of potential partners and clients — show up, deliver value, and follow up.</li><li>Collaboration beats competition: your fellow photographers are a resource, not a threat, for referrals and big opportunities.</li><li>Following up with intention builds trust and keeps your name at the top of their list.</li><li>LinkedIn isn’t optional — it’s your 24/7 brand ambassador and the key to staying connected as people move and grow in their roles.</li></ul><h2><br></h2><h2>TOPICS COVERED WITH TIMESTAMPS</h2><p>[00:00] Kicking off episode eight: bridging your portfolio to new business</p><p>[00:39] Defining ideal audience vs. dream client</p><p>[01:33] The basketball metaphor for relationship marketing</p><p>[02:57] Moving from outsider to “first off the bench” with consistent presence</p><p>[06:02] Turning association meetings into new client opportunities</p><p>[08:07] Proactive ways to prepare for industry events</p><p>[09:00] Donating your services: the in-kind trick for instant visibility</p><p>[10:38] Why follow-up is everything — and how to do it with integrity</p><p>[12:41] Maintaining relationships as your business and life evolve</p><p>[14:04] Staying relevant as clients and planners move throughout the industry</p><p>[16:11] “Collaboration over competition” — real stories of photographer referrals</p><p>[19:16] How to handle overflow work: hiring vs. referring</p><p>[20:27] Understanding your unique strengths for better referrals</p><p>[22:12] The power of chance connections (Costa Rica story)</p><p>[23:41] Making momentum easier: step-by-step LinkedIn playbook</p><p>[25:10] Why LinkedIn matters (even if it doesn’t feel creative)</p><p>[27:03] What’s in the LinkedIn playbook and where to get it</p><p>[30:01] How to get accountability and real implementation help</p><h2><br></h2><h2>RESOURCES &amp; LINKS MENTIONED</h2><ul><li>Meeting Professionals International (MPI)</li><li>International Live Events Association (ILEA)</li><li>National Association for Catering and Events (NACE)</li><li>Professional Photographers of America (PPA)</li><li>Wedding and Portrait Photographers International (WPPI)</li><li>LinkedIn for business marketing</li><li><a href="https://themamones.com/playbook" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Mamones LinkedIn Playbook</a> (Free resource plus coaching call)</li><li>Local donut shops (seriously!)</li></ul><h2><br></h2><h2>CONNECT WITH DON &amp; EMILY</h2><p><a href="https://themamones.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">themamones.com</a></p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/themamones" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/themamones</a></p>

11 total episodes available

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What is Hocus-Focus?

The Podcast for Photographers and Videographers Ready to Add Corporate Clients to Their Studio<br><br>You started your photography business doing something you truly loved. And for a while, it was everything. But somewhere between the long weekends and the late-night edits, the dream started to feel more like a nightmare.<br><br>The answer isn't a better marketing strategy, a lower price point, or grinding through another wedding season hoping things change. It's a market you've been overlooking — one built on recurring revenue, professional budgets, and clients who respect your time, value your expertise, and come back year after year. The corporate market. And it's far more accessible than you've been led to believe.<br><br>Hosts Don and Emily Mamone proved it. After nearly two decades at the intersection of art and entrepreneurship — including almost ten years in the wedding market — they did the math, made the hard call, and rebuilt their studio entirely in the corporate space. That decision changed everything. Hocus-Focus is how they're sharing every secret with you.<br><br>Each week, Don and Emily challenge the misconceptions keeping photographers and videographers stuck, and deliver the strategic insights, honest conversations, and practical tools the industry actually needs. You'll learn how to differentiate your business, build a client base that generates recurring revenue, and create a brand that consistently attracts clients who appreciate you, respect your time, and value your work.<br><br>Monthly, they sit down with industry-leading photographers, creatives, and entrepreneurs who've cracked the code and built exactly what they wanted — sharing what's actually working, what isn't, and what it really takes to succeed.<br><br>After nearly two decades living at the intersection of artist and entrepreneur, Don and Emily have seen and heard it all. There were tears of frustration and fear — and plenty of laughter too. It took hard work, a little luck, and what they can only describe as a certain measure of magic to get where they are today. And where you'll be soon.<br><br>So if any of this sounds familiar, you're in the right place. Subscribe to Hocus-Focus — because Don and Emily are about to get loud and unapologetic about building the business and life you truly want, doing what you really love.<br><br>New episodes every week. Real strategies. Honest stories. Practical tools. And a firm belief that with the right knowledge, the right mindset, and just a little bit of magic — what feels impossible right now is closer than you think.

How often does this podcast release new episodes?

This podcast updates daily.

Where can I listen to this podcast?

This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.

Does this podcast accept guests?

Information about guest appearances is not available.

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