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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Greenville Mini Session Photographer - Mommy & Me Mother’s Day Mini Sessions

Here’s the honest truth. I see WAY too many photographers offering fake flower backdrops for their Mother’s Day Mommy and Me Mini sessions. And it drives me crazy. Fake flowers will never look like real flowers no matter how hard they try to convince you. And nothing will ever be able to match the beauty of real flowers for a mommy and me mother’s day mini session background.

That’s why my floral backdrop mini sessions will ALWAYS have REAL florals, designed by a PROFESSIONAL florist. This is one of those things where you should never cut costs as a photographer. And I promise you, I don’t. For this motherhood mini session event, I hired the amazing Rachel Deneroy Designs. The mini floral pillars that she created for us were absolutely incredible. And every mama who came in to the studio also commented on how amazing they smelled.

We used White Wall Studio for these beautiful floral backdrop mini sessions. White Wall is one of my favorite studios in the Greenville , SC area. Although I would love to try out even more studios around the area in the future!

I would LOVE to offer more floral backdrop events like this in the future! If you’re interested, inquire with me and let me know all of your thoughts and preferences, so I can take those into account. I would love to put together another event like this in the fall with fall-colored flowers. Let em know if this is something you’d like to see!

In the meantime, if you’re interested in your own family or mommy and me sessions, you can see all of the details here: https://michellepoteet.com/family-pricing-download

Or if you have a new baby on the way, you can see of the pricing and info on my maternity and newborn packages here: https://michellepoteet.com/newborn-pricing

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Motherhood Event Photos in Greenville, SC

A floral-filled celebration of motherhood, captured at White Wall Studios

There’s something magical about this season of motherhood—the tender snuggles, the gummy baby smiles, the way your little one fits just right in your arms. At our Mother’s Day mini sessions in Greenville, SC, we set out to capture just that: the love, joy, and connection between moms and their babies.

Hosted at the gorgeous White Wall Studios and designed in collaboration with the incredibly talented Rachel Deneroy Designs, these sessions were nothing short of dreamy. Our custom floral backdrop was overflowing with blush and ivory garden roses, adding a timeless, high-end touch to every moment.

Why Motherhood Sessions Matter

As a mama myself, I know how fleeting this season can feel. You're in the thick of baby giggles, sleepy snuggles, and soft little coos—but it all changes so quickly. These motherhood event photos in Greenville, SC are designed to pause time. To preserve what it feels like to hold your baby close. To celebrate the beauty of motherhood in all its tender, joyful chaos.

And yes, dads are welcome too! Many families brought both parents to their session, and the resulting images were full of love and laughter. It’s not just about the mamas—it’s about the story your family is writing right now.

A Studio Session, Styled with Heart

We wanted this Motherhood Event in Greenville, SC to feel special, elevated, and effortless. That’s why every detail—from the softly styled florals to the natural light-filled studio—was chosen to reflect the warmth and beauty of motherhood.

I also provide access to my client closet, so moms didn’t have to stress about what to wear. Most chose long, flowy dresses in soft neutrals, which paired perfectly with the delicate floral backdrop and creamy white walls.

Sentimental Moments You’ll Treasure Forever

Some of my favorite moments from these sessions?

  • The way this mama looked at her baby girl—so full of pride and tenderness.

  • The soft curls and sweet bare feet peeking out from under a white dress.

  • Dad lifting his baby high in the air, all smiles and joy.

  • The baby’s delighted squeals and the soft, lace headband she wore like a crown.

These are the moments that tell the story of your motherhood. These are the memories that deserve to live on your walls, in your albums, and in your heart.

Ready to Book Your Own Motherhood Session?

If you missed this round of mini sessions, don’t worry—I offer seasonal motherhood sessions in Greenville, SC throughout the year, and I would be honored to photograph your family.

Whether you're a new mama, expecting your next little one, or simply wanting to document the love between you and your children, let’s create something beautiful together.

Book a session or get on the list for my next Motherhood Mini Event here!

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Mother’s Day Mini Sessions in Greenville, South Carolina

The 2nd annual floral backdrop studio Mother’s Day mini sessions in Greenville, South Carolina! After last year’s mother’s day mini sessions, I was so excited to increase the floral budget and go bigger and better with our floral backdrop this year! These motherhood event floral sessions are the PERFECT way to celebrate your motherhood journey. They make the best mother’s day gift to yourself or from your husband and/or kids!

The first session at my Mother’s Day mini sessions in Greenville this year was a very sweet mother and her baby girl! It was so much fun taking these mommy and me photos for Kaitlyn for her very first mother’s day. This mother’s day photoshoot was Kaitlyn’s mother’s day gift to herself for her first mother’s day. I was SO honored that she chose me for her mommy and me photoshoot!

Kaitlyn chose one of the stunning dresses in my client closet. I offer these totally free as part of my services. I have over 60 dresses for mamas to choose from! As well as outfits, swaddles, and props for newborn sessions. This beautiful blue and white dress that Kaitlyn chose is from Worth Collective, which is my absolute favorite dress brand for my client closet dresses!

These mini floral pillars made the perfect backdrop for my Mother’s Day mini sessions. These were designed by Rachel Deneroy Designs, who was absolutely incredible. I can’t wait to collaborate on more photoshoots with her in the future! And our venue was the beautiful White Wall Studios in Taylors, SC at the Taylors Mill.

Want your own family photos or Mother’s Day photos? You can see all of the information on my photoshoots here: https://michellepoteet.com/family-pricing-download

OR if you have a new baby on the way, you can see all of the information on my maternity and newborn sessions here: https://michellepoteet.com/newborn-pricing-1

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

A Sweet In-Home Session with Baby Harper | Newborn Photographers in Greenville, SC

There is nothing more magical than the first week with your baby in your arms. I had the honor of photographing baby Harper’s in-home newborn session when she was just one week old, and it was everything my heart needed—tender, emotional, and beautifully simple. For parents Haley and Stephen, these moments already feel like they’re going by too fast, and I’m so grateful I could help them slow down time through photos and video.

As one of the leading newborn photographers in Greenville, SC, I specialize in lifestyle newborn photography that captures love, connection, and all the tiny details that matter most—like Harper’s delicate lashes, curled toes, and that sweet newborn stretch.

Why Choose In-Home Newborn Photography in Greenville, SC?

There’s something extra special about photographing your baby in the comfort of your own home. You don’t have to pack a bag or rush out the door—everything you need is already there. Plus, your home becomes part of your family’s story. Harper’s session took place in the nursery, on mom and dad’s bed, and even snuggled up near the house plants in the corner of the kitchen—proof that beauty can be found in the most ordinary spaces when love is present.

The Details that Matter

Haley wore a soft cream dress from my client wardrobe (which is included in every session!), and Harper was wrapped in a cozy neutral swaddle with a tiny bow—one of several I brought along for the session. As a Greenville newborn photographer, I come fully prepared with props, swaddles, headbands, and even wardrobe guidance so that mamas don’t have to stress about a thing.

The session included tender photos of Haley holding Harper close, Stephen rocking her gently in the nursery chair, and the three of them cuddled together on the bed—sweet moments that show just how loved this baby girl already is.

Video + Photo: Preserving More Than Just a Moment

In addition to photos, this family chose to include a highlight video with their session. Watching Harper yawn, stretch, and settle into her parents' arms on film adds a whole new level of emotion. While photos freeze a single moment, videos bring those moments to life—letting you relive the feeling of your newborn in your arms again and again.

Looking for a Newborn Photographer in Greenville, SC?

If you’re currently expecting or recently welcomed a little one, I’d love to help you preserve this season in the most meaningful way possible. As a full-service newborn photographer in Greenville, SC, I offer in-home photo and video sessions that are stress-free, sentimental, and full of heart.

✨ Ready to capture your own newborn love story?
Click here to book your session now or download the newborn pricing guide to learn more.

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Greenville Family Videographer | Sentimental Highlight Videos You’ll Treasure Forever

There are moments in motherhood that are so full of love and beauty, they almost don’t feel real — a soft “Mommy” from your little one, a giggle as they run into your arms, the way your baby looks at you like you’re their whole world.

As a Greenville family videographer, these are the fleeting memories I’m passionate about helping you hold onto forever.

This highlight video captures a beautiful afternoon spent simply being together as a family — walking hand in hand, snuggling up on the porch, playing in the yard, and soaking in the magic of this season of life. The result is more than just a video. It’s a moving time capsule of everything that makes your family yours — the love, the laughter, the connection.

Why Family Highlight Videos Are So Meaningful

Photos are powerful, but videos bring everything to life. You can hear the tiny voice saying “Mommy,” feel the squeeze of a hug, and see your kids’ personalities shining through in a way that photos alone can’t always capture.

These sessions aren’t scripted or posed. They’re natural, relaxed, and filled with genuine moments — the ones that make up the heart of motherhood.

What’s Included in a Family Video Session

  • 2–3 minute cinematic highlight video

  • Shot at a location that feels like you — whether that’s your home, a field at golden hour, or a cozy front porch

  • Gentle direction (no stiff posing!) so your session feels easy, fun, and authentic

  • Optional photo add-on if you’d like both images and video

Ready to Preserve This Season?

You don’t need a “special occasion” to have a video like this. In fact, the everyday moments are the most special of all. These videos are perfect for:

  • Celebrating your growing family

  • Capturing this season before another birthday passes

  • Mother’s Day gifts (yes, your husband should 100% be booking this for you 😉)

  • Simply remembering what life feels like right now

Because these moments? They go by so fast. But that doesn’t mean they have to be forgotten.

Interested in Your Own Family Highlight Video?

✨ You can view session details and pricing here
✨ Or go ahead and book your session now — my calendar fills quickly!
✨ Want to learn more first? Download the Family Session Pricing Guide

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Greenville Maternity Photographers

There’s something so magical about those early weeks of pregnancy—the quiet joy, the flutters of excitement, the dreaming about what’s to come. As a Greenville maternity photographer, I get a front-row seat to some of the most intimate and emotional milestones for growing families. And this sweet pregnancy announcement and gender reveal session at Conestee Nature Preserve was overflowing with love, light, and a whole lot of boy energy.

This beautiful mama is 14 weeks pregnant with her third baby boy, and we celebrated this special season with a golden hour photo session that perfectly captured the tenderness of motherhood, the joy of family, and the excitement of what’s to come.

A Sentimental Pregnancy Announcement in Greenville, SC

Nestled among the tall grasses and glowing trees of Conestee Nature Preserve, this maternity session was full of meaningful moments. From the ultrasound photos gently cradled against mama’s bump to the way her two little boys smiled at her belly—this session was a love letter to the season of waiting.

She wore a flowy, floral dress that caught the breeze beautifully and looked like spring itself. It was soft, sweet, and timeless—just like her growing family.

As a Greenville maternity photographer, I always encourage my clients to bring personal touches to their session, and this family did just that with ultrasound prints, blue balloons, and big brother hugs that had me tearing up behind the camera.

A Gender Reveal Full of Joy and Blue Balloons

One of the most exciting parts of this session? The gender reveal! Mama and dad are expecting their third boy, and the boys were thrilled to celebrate with light blue balloons floating in the sunshine. Big brother proudly held the ultrasound strip and beamed with pride—such a sweet moment I know this family will treasure forever.

These are the kinds of memories that deserve to be preserved—not just in a photo album, but on the walls of your home, in your heart, and for your children to see as they grow up and ask, “Mom, tell me about when you were pregnant with me.”

Why Conestee Nature Preserve Is One of My Favorite Maternity Locations

If you’re searching for the perfect natural backdrop for your maternity session, Conestee Nature Preserve in Greenville, SC is one of my favorite spots. With golden light streaming through the trees, open grassy fields for little ones to run, and quiet spaces for peaceful moments with baby bump, it creates the most dreamy setting for heartfelt, connection-filled photos.

Whether you’re planning a pregnancy announcement, gender reveal, or just want to capture the beauty of this season, outdoor maternity photos at golden hour offer something truly special.

Are You Expecting? Let’s Celebrate This Season Together.

If you’re looking for Greenville maternity photographers who capture joyful, sentimental, and timeless images, I would love to serve you. My sessions are relaxed and meaningful, designed to preserve the connection between you and your babies—both the ones in your arms and the ones still growing.

Let’s create something beautiful together to remember this season forever.

✨ Ready to book? Click here to schedule your maternity session
✨ Want to learn more? Download my maternity and newborn session pricing guide

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Simpsonville Family Photographer

Looking for golden hour family photos in a tall grass open field in the Greenville, South Carolina area! Book a sunset family photoshoot at Conestee Nature Preserve, and you will NOT be disappointed! This stunning location is always so perfect for golden hour or sunset photos! So many of my families tell me that they want a tall grass open field location! Conestee is by far the most beautiful option in Greenville in my opinion! I was so thankful that this sweet family trusted my opinion when it came to their location for their family photos as well as the time of day for their photos. In general, I’m a huge believer that happy kids is more important than good lighting (unless, of course, you can have both) BUT Conestee Nature Preserve is one of those locations that really does look SO much better at golden hour, sunset, or sunrise. If you need to take mid day photos for your kids nap schedules, I TOTALLY get it, and I have lots of other locations I can recommend that will look beautiful in harsh sunlight!

I also get asked a lot about locations for family photos that are close to Simpsonville, SC! There are honestly not a lot of great locations close to simpsonville, because it’s mainly housing additions on the south side of Greenville BUT, again, Conestee is one of those rare GORGEOUS, nature-filled locations close to Simpsonville and the south side of Greenville, South Carolina.

Looking for your own family photos? I would absolutely LOVE to have your sweet family in front of my camera! You can see all of the information about my family photoshoots here: https://michellepoteet.com/family-pricing-download

Have a baby on the way? I would LOVE to take newborn and maternity photos for you, and I even have newborn and maternity package deals for up to $400 off! You can see all of the details here: https://michellepoteet.com/newborn-pricing-1

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Greenville Maternity and Family Photographer

It was such an honor to take maternity and family photos for Jonathan, Eunbin, and their dog Sarang! Eunbin is 7 months pregnant, and she looked absolutely STUNNING during my spring mini sessions! As part of my spring mini sessions (or any session you decide to book with me), I offer my complimentary client closet with over 50 dresses for mamas to choose from plus outfits for babies and, of course, outfits swaddles and props for newborns. Eunbin chose this stunning blue floral dress from morning lavender from my client closet.

I love being able to offer bump friendly maternity dresses and extra flattering postpartum dresses for mamas as a part of my photo and video services. My goals is for my sessions to be as stress free as possible, and this is one extra thing to take off of your plate, so you don’t have to worry about ANYTHING during your maternity, family, or newborn photo and video session with me!

These photos were taken on private property owned by family members of mine. This is a stunning spot that I am so lucky to be able to offer to my clients for beautiful spring and fall mini sessions! There is a beautiful garden, a gorgeous greenhouse, trails through the woods, and an adorable gazebo in the middle of a serene little pond.

Enjoy some of my favorite maternity and family photos from this lovely spring mini session below!

If you’re interested in your own family photoshoot with me, you can see all of the details here: https://michellepoteet.com/family-pricing-download

OR if you have a little one on the way, you can see all of the details on my newborn sessions here: https://michellepoteet.com/newborn-pricing-1

I also offer maternity and newborn package deals for up to $400 off if you book both together! I would love to have your sweet family in front of my camera soon!!

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Travelers Rest Newborn and Family Photographer - Outdoor Newborn Photos

Travelers Rest Outdoor Newborn Photos

I always say that my travelers rest mini sessions can be used for anything - even newborn photos! Erin and Aaron brought their sweet three month old baby to my spring mini sessions in Travelers Rest, South Carolina. We were able to get such sweet outdoor newborn photos of him and some adorable first family photos of this new little family of three!

I was so happy to start off my spring mini sessions with a day full of spring minis on this gorgeous private property owned by some family members of mine. Travelers Rest is such a lovely little town that I love to use for photos! My in laws have the most stunning property with a garden and greenhouse, beautiful open fields, stunning wooded paths and a beautiful large pond with a gazebo and boats.

Your Travelers Rest Family Photos

Are you looking for your own family photoshoot or family mini session in Travelers Rest, South Carolina? I would absolutely LOVE to photograph your sweet family. You can see all of the details about my sessions here: https://michellepoteet.com/family-pricing-download

Your Travelers Rest Newborn Photos

Or if you have a new little one on the way, I would love to photograph your newborn photoshoot! I photograph outdoor newborn sessions, studio newborn sessions, and in home newborn sessions! You can even book a newborn mini session! You can see all of the details and information about my newborn sessions here: https://michellepoteet.com/newborn-pricing-1

Travelers Rest Newborn and Family Photographer

Hey there! I’m Michelle! I’m a newborn photographer, family photographer, AND a newborn and family VIDEOGRAPHER located in the Greenville, South Carolina area! I would absolutely LOVE to photograph (and video) your family or newborn session! You can book a session with me here! I can’t wait to have your sweet family in front of my camera soon! I love helping sentimental mamas preserve life’s sweetest moment through photos and videos they can cherish forever

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Family Photographers in Travelers Rest, SC

If you’re looking for family photographers in Travelers Rest, SC, you’ve come to the right place! I would absolutely LOVE to be your family photographer! Let me start by showing you some sweet photos I had the pleasure of taking spring bloom family photos for this sweet family of five here in Travelers Rest, South Carolina! I loved getting to photograph this mom, dad, and their two wild toddlers and their adorable baby boy.

The crazier and more chaotic, the more fun in my opinion! I love fun and energetic toddlers. They always make for the BEST and most authentic family photography poses and prompts. This fun family chose Furman University for their photoshoot. I love the SHI institute for sustainable agriculture. They have stunning gardens all year round. Including beautiful blooming trees in the spring! This is my absolute favorite spot for family photos in the Greenville or Travelers Rest area!

If you want true to life yet light and enhanced, authentic and natural family photos that show of the real love, connection, and bond that your family has, I want to be your Travelers Rest family photographer!!

If you want to book your own family photos, you can see all of the information here: https://michellepoteet.com/family-pricing-download

Or if you have a little one on the way, you can see all of the information about my newborn photoshoots here: https://michellepoteet.com/newborn-pricing-1

Hey there! I’m Michelle! I’m a newborn photographer, family photographer, AND a newborn and family VIDEOGRAPHER located in the Greenville, South Carolina area! I would absolutely LOVE to photograph (and video) your family or newborn session! You can book a session with me here! I can’t wait to have your sweet family in front of my camera soon! I love helping sentimental mamas preserve life’s sweetest moment through photos and videos they can cherish forever

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Family Photos With Dogs and Horses in Travelers Rest, South Carolina

As part of Nic and Suz’s branding photoshoot for their dog breeding business (Bernedoodle DO), we also took some sweet family photos for them with three of their teenage daughters. Since they are a family business, it just made sense to include their girls! We took some of these photos inside one of their gorgeous airbnb’s in Travelers Rest, South Carolina. And the rest were taken on their personal property less than a mile away.

Of course we had to include a few of their miniature bernedoodles as well as their horse! Pets are part of the family! That’s why I’m a dog friendly, horse friendly, and pet friendly family photographer!

Also, did you know this gorgeous home is available to rent hourly for photoshoots? AND it’s free for my clients! It would be absolutely PERFECT for a newborn session if you don’t want to worry about cleaning your home. Or if your home doesn’t have great natural light. They have a few other airbnb’s that are stunning for photos as well! And also available for hourly rent for photoshoots!

Want your own family photoshoot? See all the details and download my full pricing guide here: https://michellepoteet.com/family-pricing-download

Have a little one on the way? See all of the details about my newborn sessions here: https://michellepoteet.com/newborn-pricing-1

Hey there! I’m Michelle! I’m a newborn photographer, family photographer, AND a newborn and family VIDEOGRAPHER located in the Greenville, South Carolina area! I love helping sentimental mamas preserve life’s sweetest moment through photos and videos they can cherish forever.

I would absolutely LOVE to photograph (and video) your family or newborn session! You can book a session with me here! I can’t wait to have your sweet family in front of my camera soon!

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Greenville, South Carolina Branding and Headshot Photographers

Branding photos don’t have to be boring - in fact they’re not supposed to be! Your headshots and branding photos should represent your business. And if you have a personal brand or a small business, your brand should represent YOU! Your clients or customers (and potential or future customers) want to get to know you! As your Greenville, South Carolina branding and headshot photographer, it’s my job to create something authentically YOU that fully represents your brand and your personality.

But how do you as a small business owner with limited time and capacity help your clients and potential clients get to know you and your personality in a way that helps them know, like and trust you WITHOUT excessive back and forth communication? I’ve found one of the best ways to be by showing YOU - all over! Your website, your social media, your Instagram, and ESPECIALLY your pricing page.

So that’s exactly what we did for my friends over at Bernedoodle DO. Suz is a mini bernedoodle breeder in Travelers Rest, SC. And she also owns three stunning airbnbs in TR South Carolina as well! During Suz’s branding photos, I wanted to show off her dogs as well as my personal favorite out of her airbnbs!

P.S. These airbnb’s are also available to rent hourly for photoshoots! For any of my clients, they are a free add on! This space would be PERFECT for a newborn photoshoot if you don’t want to use (or clean) your own home!

Since Bernadoodle DO is a family business, we also did branding photos for Suz’s husband and kids! Keep an eye on the blog to see the rest of this FUN branding session. And don’t miss the branding VIDEOS we took for them too!

If you’re looking for your own branding photos and videos and headshots in Greenville, South Carolina, I would love to work with you! Feel free to reach out so we can chat about your brand!

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

How To Price Your Photography Business

Three Things That Should (and Should Not) Determine Your Photography Pricing

If you’ve ever stared at your pricing list and thought, “Is this too much? Too little? What are other photographers charging?”—you’re not alone. Pricing your photography services can feel overwhelming and emotional, especially when you’re trying to make a living doing something you love.

But here’s the truth: if you want to run a sustainable and profitable photography business, your pricing has to be rooted in logic, not comparison. So today, I’m breaking down three things that should determine your pricing—and three things that absolutely should not. Let’s dive in.

BUT FIRST! I have a free gift for you that will help you figure out the best way to price AND market your photography business. Download my free Ideal Client Workbook to help you get clear on who you want to serve, how to speak directly to them, and ultimately attract clients who are happy to pay your prices.

This is the first step to building a photography business that’s both profitable and joyful.

Download the Ideal Client Workbook here

✅ What Should Determine Your Photography Pricing

1. How Much Money You Want to Make

Yes, this is where you start! Your pricing should be based on your income goals—not pulled from thin air or based on what someone else is charging. If you want to make $75,000 per year and only shoot 50 sessions annually, that means you need to average $1,500 per session. It’s that simple.

Dream big, get specific, and reverse-engineer your pricing to support the life and schedule you want.

2. How Many Sessions You Want to Take

Burnout is real, and your pricing needs to reflect the actual capacity you have. If you’re a mom with young kids, like I am, maybe you only want to shoot one session a week. Or maybe you want to shoot three sessions a weekend and take weekdays off.

Once you know how many sessions you want to take, you can set your prices accordingly to still hit your income goals. More sessions can mean lower prices, fewer sessions will likely mean higher prices—but it’s all up to you.

3. Your Business Expenses

You are running a business—not a hobby. That means you need to take into account everything from your gear and editing software to subscriptions, taxes, education, marketing tools, and more. If you’re not building those costs into your pricing, you’re not truly profitable.

Know your numbers. Every dollar you spend to run your business needs to be factored into what you charge.

❌ What Should Not Determine Your Pricing

1. What Other Photographers Are Charging

I know it’s tempting to peek at the competition and base your prices off theirs—but their goals, expenses, lifestyle, and experience aren’t yours. You don’t know if they’re profitable, struggling, or even booking clients.

Your business is unique. Price accordingly.

2. What You Think Clients Are Willing to Pay

If you assume people won’t pay higher prices, you’ll never raise them—and you’ll stay stuck. But trust me: there are clients out there who value what you offer and are willing to pay for it. (Especially when you learn how to market to your ideal client—more on that in a sec.)

Pricing out of fear leads to burnout. Pricing with strategy leads to freedom.

3. How Long You’ve Been in Business

Experience matters, but it’s not the only factor in your value. Some photographers come out of the gate with talent, education, and business strategy and start booking high-end clients right away. Others take longer to build.

Your pricing should reflect your skill, your client experience, and your goals—not just the number of years you’ve been in business.

Ready to Price with Purpose?

If you’re tired of guessing and ready to confidently price your photography services based on strategy (not fear or comparison), I’ve got a free gift for you!

Download my free Ideal Client Workbook to help you get clear on who you want to serve, how to speak directly to them, and ultimately attract clients who are happy to pay your prices.

This is the first step to building a photography business that’s both profitable and joyful.

Download the Ideal Client Workbook here

You’ve got this—and I’m cheering you on every step of the way.

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

How to Book Your First 5 Family Photography Clients

Are you tired of feeling like no one’s booking you for family sessions?
Or maybe you’re wondering, “How in the world do I even get started?”

Trust me, I’ve been there. Booking your first few family photography clients can feel overwhelming—but it’s so doable with the right steps. Whether you're just starting out or switching over to family sessions from another niche, this post will walk you through exactly how to land your first 5 bookings.

By the end of this post, you’ll know where to find those first few clients, how to make yourself visible locally, and how to start looking like a pro online.

Bonus: Don’t forget to download my free Family Posing Guide to feel confident and prepared at your very first session!

1. Start With Your Inner Circle

Your very first family clients don’t need to come from strangers on the internet—they’re probably already in your life!

Start by reaching out to:

  • Friends with young kids

  • Family members

  • Coworkers or acquaintances in your community

Let them know you’re offering a limited-time portfolio-building discount or doing a few model call sessions to gain experience and build your portfolio. Be clear about what’s included (and what’s not), and create a great experience for them.

Pro Tip: Treat these early sessions just like a paid one! Deliver a great client experience from start to finish so they’ll rave about you to their friends.

Feeling nervous about posing? You are not alone! That’s why I created a free Family Posing Guide to help you feel confident going into your very first sessions. Grab your free guide here.

2. Build Local Visibility

Once you’ve got a few shoots under your belt, it’s time to start getting visible in your community. Your next 2–3 clients will likely come from word-of-mouth and local networking.

Here are a few ideas:

  • Join local Facebook groups or parenting forums and share helpful, non-spammy posts (think: “Mini Session tips” or “What to wear for fall family photos”).

  • Network with local businesses that cater to families—like preschools, hair salons, pediatricians, or kids’ boutiques.

  • Offer a referral perk to your earliest clients! Something simple like a $25 print credit or a free 8x10 print goes a long way.

Don’t be afraid to talk about your business! Every conversation is a potential connection.

3. Position Yourself Like a Pro Online

Even when you’re just starting out, you can still look like a professional. A polished online presence builds trust and makes people more likely to book you.

Here’s how:

  • Create a clean, simple landing page or Instagram portfolio (no need for a full website just yet!).

  • Show only your best 5–10 images—less is more. Highlight quality over quantity.

  • Share your client experience in your captions or short-form videos. Let people know what it’s like to work with you—easygoing, fun, relaxed!

If you’re comfortable on camera, try sharing short clips talking about your work, your why, or behind-the-scenes moments during shoots.

You’ve Got This!

I know it can feel slow at first—but remember, every photographer started at zero. Booking your first five clients is 100% possible if you follow these steps consistently. Start with your circle, grow your visibility, and keep showing up online.

And if you want a little extra help feeling confident at your first session, don’t forget to download my free Family Posing Guide. It’ll walk you through simple, natural poses to help your families feel comfortable and connected.

You’ve got this, friend! ❤️

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Passive Income Ideas for Photographers

Simple Ways to Make More Money Without More Sessions

As photographers, our time is valuable—and there’s only so much of it. That’s why building streams of passive income is so important for growing your business without burning out. If you’re looking to make more money without booking more sessions, here are a few of my favorite ways to create passive income as a photographer.

1. Upsell Digital Images

One of the easiest and most effective ways to increase your income is by upselling additional images from each session.

Here’s how I do it:

  • For mini sessions, I include 5 edited digital images.

  • For full sessions, I include 20 edited images.

  • I upload the full gallery (with a watermark) to Pixieset, and I send my clients a coupon code that allows them to download the number of images included in their session.

From there, clients can:

  • Purchase individual additional images, or…

  • Buy the entire gallery with one click.

Most of the time? They fall in love with more than their allotted number—and upgrading becomes a no-brainer.

Pro Tip: Make sure your galleries are packed with variety! If you only deliver 20 poses, your clients may only choose one of each. But if you offer lots of variation in posing, framing (wide vs. close-up), and orientation (horizontal vs. vertical), they’ll be much more likely to upgrade to get everything. Ready to uplevel your posing and create tons of variety? Download my free family session posing guide here. Or my free newborn session posing guide here.

Want to know exactly what I say when I deliver a Pixieset gallery?
Download my free email template here!

2. Turn on the Pixieset Store

If you’re not already using the Pixieset store, now’s the time! When you turn on the store feature, clients can order prints, albums, and other products straight from their gallery—and you’ll earn a percentage of each sale.

Bonus: This is passive income that continues to roll in after the session is done. You don’t need to do anything except turn on the feature and promote it.

3. Create an Amazon Storefront

I highly recommend joining the Amazon Influencer Program and setting up your own Amazon Storefront. This is perfect if you’re already recommending outfits, baby products, or gear to your clients (and if you aren’t—you should be!).

For example:

  • In my outfit guide, I include Amazon links to client-approved wardrobe pieces.

  • One of my favorite brands to recommend for mamas is Nothing Fits But—which is available right on Amazon.

  • Every time a client shops through my storefront, I earn a small commission.

It adds up—and it’s totally passive.

Want to see what this could look like?
Check out my own Amazon storefront here for inspo.

4. Use Email Marketing to Drive Print Sales

Once your gallery is delivered, your job isn’t done! You can use email marketing tools like Flodesk (get 50% off with this link) to remind clients to purchase prints and products—especially during key times of the year like:

  • Mother’s Day

  • Christmas

  • Grandparents’ birthdays

  • Back-to-school season

A simple, well-timed reminder can lead to more gallery downloads, print orders, and products purchased—without any extra work from you.

Ready to Start Earning More—Without Working More?

Passive income doesn’t have to be complicated. A few smart systems can help you earn more from every session, serve your clients better, and grow your income while protecting your time.

Start with one of the ideas above and see how it works for your business. Then slowly build from there!

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

How to Get Natural & Authentic Poses for Family Photography

How to Get Natural & Authentic Poses for Family Photography

Your family photo sessions should never feel stiff or forced. As a family photographer, your goal isn’t just to get everyone smiling at the camera—it’s to capture real moments, genuine emotions, and the true connection each family shares.

So how do you actually do that?

In this post, I’m walking you through exactly how to get natural and authentic poses during your family photography sessions—without making your clients feel awkward or overly posed.

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up your posing skills, these go-to tips and prompts will help you photograph an entire session that feels fun, relaxed, and full of heart.

And if you love these ideas, don’t miss the FREE Posing Guide for Family Photographers I created just for you! It includes all of my favorite prompts plus tons of variations you can bring to your next session. Just click here to download it or scroll to the end of this post.

Why Authentic Family Posing Is About So Much More Than "Put Your Hand Here. Tilt your Head that way"

Posing families is so much more than adjusting hand placement or tilting chins.

It’s about:

  • Helping every family member feel comfortable enough to be their true selves.

  • Facilitating meaningful, real interactions between parents and kids.

  • Creating a fun, joy-filled environment that sparks real smiles and laughter.

  • Making mamas feel confident and beautiful in front of the camera.

  • Taking the time to know your families so well that they feel seen and loved.

When done right, your images don’t just look good—they feel good. They tell a story. They make moms cry happy tears. They preserve this season of life in the most honest, beautiful way.

Let’s dive into how you can make that happen.

1. Direct Movement for Natural Reactions

One of the biggest secrets to natural-looking poses? Movement.

Instead of static “stand and smile” setups, give your families prompts that encourage them to move. This sparks real interaction and makes everyone feel less like they’re “posing” and more like they’re just playing together.

Try this:
“Hold hands and walk toward me while laughing!”
“The ‘Ring Around the Rosie’ prompt always gets the best giggles!”

Even a small shift—like swaying back and forth or spinning a toddler—can create gorgeous in-between moments filled with connection and joy.

2. Create Emotional Connection in Your Posing

If your families look a little disconnected or stiff in photos, this might be the missing piece.

Great posing isn't about symmetry—it's about emotional connection.

Instead of telling them to stand close and smile, try prompts that encourage intimacy and interaction:

Try this:
“Whisper something funny into Mom’s ear.”
“Make a family sandwich—get as close as humanly possible!”
“Look at your child like it’s the first time you saw them.”

When you prompt your clients to interact in meaningful ways, everything shifts. The smiles become real. The body language softens. The connection shines through.

And here’s a pro tip: Read the family dynamic. Not every family is super touchy or outgoing. Tailor your prompts to match their vibe.

3. Let Families Be Themselves

Some of the most magical moments happen when you simply step back.

Yes, your prompts matter—but so does your ability to let go of control and let the moment unfold naturally.

Try this:
“Ask the kids to run up and give their parents the biggest hug ever!”
“Tell Dad to chase the kids around while Mom watches and giggles.”
“Have everyone cuddle on a blanket and just chat for a second.”

Your job is to guide the moment, not force it.

Let go of perfection. The messy hair, the belly laughs, the toddler tantrums—they’re real, and they’re beautiful.

Your Family Sessions Can Be Magical—And Stress-Free

Your family sessions don’t need to be perfectly posed to be perfect. They just need to be real.

As the photographer, you set the tone. When you create a safe, fun, and relaxed environment, your families feel it—and it shows in your images.

If you’re ready to bring more authenticity, emotion, and connection into your work, don’t forget to grab your FREE Posing Guide for Family Photographers. It’s packed with easy-to-use prompts and tons of variations so you can photograph an entire session with confidence and ease.

👉 Download the Free Posing Guide Here

You’ve got this, friend! Go out there and create some magic.

If you want to go even deeper with me, check out my posing course for family photographers. Mastering Authentic Connection, the Complete Posing Course For Family Photographers where you will not only learn EVERY SINGLE prompt and pose that I use for every different type of family session from families with babies and toddlers to families with older kids to extended family sessions. You will also learn how I overcome any potential challenges such as working with grumpy dads or teens and overcoming toddler meltdowns. And you’ll learn how to serve special needs families well. And how to create an amazing client experience for your clients. 

You’ll also get to watch me photograph four full family sessions. Hear exactly what I say to each of my families to achieve each pose and see exactly how I create a fun environment that allows every member of the family to have fun, relax, and be their genuine authentic self. 

Join Mastering Authentic Connection HERE!

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

How to Start a Client Closet for Family, Maternity, and Newborn Photographers

Thinking about starting a client closet as a family or newborn photographer? Today, I’m breaking down the how, when, and why behind creating a photography client closet that enhances your client experience and helps you capture stunning, flattering photos—especially for mamas. You’ll learn why a client closet can elevate your brand, when it makes sense to invest in one (hint: it’s all about charging enough and wanting to uplevel), and how to begin with just a few staple dresses that work across multiple sizes. Whether you’re a new photographer or ready to take your portrait sessions to the next level, this video will walk you through the essential first steps to building a functional, beautiful client wardrobe.

BUT FIRST, download my FREE client closet starter guide.

WHY you should start a client closet as a motherhood photographer

It’s our job as family and newborn photographers to flatter our mamas. ESPECIALLY our postpartum mamas. Being invited into the newborn bubble is such a sacred and beautiful time. It’s also a vulnerable time and there is so much going on, so much changing with mama’s body. They have no idea what size they’re going to be. And if they’re a first time mom, they have no idea how to dress for a postpartum body. And they have no idea what photographs well and looks good on camera.

You can drastically improve your client experience and uplevel your photos by providing dresses for mamas for newborn, maternity, and family sessions.

WHEN to start your client closet

When should you start your client closet as a motherhood and newborn photographer?

  1. When your prices are high enough that you can purchase client closet dresses while remaining profitable

  2. When you’re ready to uplevel your client experience

  3. When you’re ready to uplevel your photos and your portfolio

  4. When you’re ready to increase your prices.

HOW to start your client closet

Start with well made high end dresses that mamas will love and want to wear! Start with versatile dresses that fit multiple sizes and will work for family, maternity AND newborn sessions. Here are my client closet dress criteria:

  • Smocked top

  • Flowy waist

  • Nursing friendly

  • Bump friendly

  • Midi Length

  • Neutral or Subtle Colors

  • Solid or subtle patterns

Ready to start your client closet.

Download my FREE client closet starter guide here with links to all of my favorite dresses and discount codes to my favorite shops!

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Cinematic Spring Blooms Mini Session Highlight Video - Greenville SC Family Photographer and Videographer

Hey Greenville, SC mamas! Did you know that you can get a cinematic highlight video included with your family photos as part of your spring mini session on Greenville, South Carolina?? I’m proud to be the first and only newborn and family photographer in Greenville, SC that also offers cinematic family and newborn session videos. Check out the family session video below to see what is possible to achieve in just a short mini session! This was in addition to a gallery of over 200 beautiful images for this family! We were able to capture all of this in only a 20 minute mini session during the peak of the spring blooms here in Greenville.

Want a spring mini photo and video session?? You can see all the details here: https://michellepoteet.com/spring-mini-sessions-greenville

Want a full family session instead? You can see all of the details here: https://michellepoteet.com/family-pricing-download

I would love to have you and your family in front of my camera this spring to capture all of the sweet, sentimental moments of this season of life. I can’t wait to work with you! If you’re looking for authentic, sweet, and FUN family or newborn photos, you’ve found your photographer! I’ll provide a stress-free experience for you, mama. And the whole family will have SO much fun at your family photoshoot.

If you’re a photographer interested in learning more about how I pose families for family photos, you can download my FREE posing guide for family photographers here: https://michellepoteet.com/free-posing-guide

And you can see ALL of my educational resources for photographers here: https://michellepoteet.com/photography-education

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

Spring Bloom Mini Sessions in Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville, South Carolina is the PERFECT city for spring bloom mini sessions. I always love taking family photos here in the spring! Spring is the BEST time of year in the upstate SC area. The weather is amazing. Not too hot. Not too cold. And the beautiful blooms are the most beautiful I’ve seen! Spring bloom mini sessions might be my favorite mini sessions that I get to photograph all year!

I love the stunning cherry blossoms at Legacy Park are always so perfect for spring family mini sessions in March and April. Peach tree bloom mini sessions are perfect for March in the Greenville, SC area. Roses tend to bloom in late April, early May. And lots and lots of beautiful trees and flowers bloom in between. If you’re looking for spring bloom mini sessions in the Greenville, South Carolina area, March, April, and May are the perfect time frame for your spring family photos.

Are you looking for spring bloom mini sessions in Greenville, South Carolina? I would LOVE to be your family photographer this spring! You can see all of the info on my spring mini sessions here: https://michellepoteet.com/spring-mini-sessions-greenville

If you prefer a full family session, you can see ALL the details here: https://michellepoteet.com/family-pricing-download

OR if you’re expected a newborn baby, you can see all of the information on my newborn sessions here: https://michellepoteet.com/newborn-pricing-1

Hey mama! Are you looking for Greenville, South Carolina newborn photographers, maternity photographers, or family photographers? I would absolutely LOVE to work with you! i serve Greenville, SC, Travelers Rest, South Carolina, Taylors, SC, Greer, SC, Simpsonville, South Carolina, Five Forks South Carolina, and more towns in the upstate south carolina area.

You can see ALL of the information on my family photoshoots here: https://michellepoteet.com/family-pricing-download

And you can see ALL of the information on my newborn photoshoots here: https://michellepoteet.com/newborn-pricing-1

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Michelle Poteet Michelle Poteet

The 9 Things I Bring To Every Family Photoshoot as a Family Photographer

What do families photographers need to bring to family sessions besides just their camera gear if they want to ensure that every session is successful? In the YouTube video below, I show you 9 things that I bring with me to my family sessions that help to create a fun and relaxed environment, help me get amazing photos, and help me make sure every member of the family is having fun

But first: make sure to download my free posing guide for family photographers! I give you my favorite prompts and poses for family sessions AND give you variations for each one. You could take this guide with you to your next family session and photograph the entire session with just these poses and the variations and walk away with a STUNNING full gallery of fun, authentic, and natural family photos. Download it HERE!

The 9 things I bring with me to every family session: 

  1. Monkey on my camera for getting kids to look at the camera and smile

This little monkey is a shutter buddy that I put on my camera to help kids know where to look! Instead of just saying hey look at this big black camera. I can say look at my friendly smiling monkey!

2. Dresses for moms

I love being able to provide a client closet for mamas for all of my sessions! It’s something extra that can really help with providing an incredible client experience.

3. Bows for girls

I’m always prepared with lots of bow options for baby girls - just in case the parents forget or one gets lost along the way.

4. Outfits for babies

In addition to my client closet for moms, I also provide outfits for babies from newborn to 6 month olds.

5. Blanket for sitting on and playing London bridge

I like to bring a white blanket. I use this for sitting photos and laying down photos in addition to playing London Bridge, the Parachute game, and letting the parents swing their kids in it!

6. Photogenic Books

These work super well for when kids need a break , but I can still get great photos while they read!

7. Bubble gun

For those times when I really need some extra help getting kids to smile!

8. Phone Tripod

This is for filming myself behind the scenes for social media content!

9. Moses Basket

This is so helpful for getting individual photos if there is a baby under 6 months. 


Did any of these items surprise you? Are there any that you’re going to try using at your next family session? Let me know in the comments!

Don’t forget to download my free posing guide for family photographers! 

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