From Netflix to Newborns: Finding My Photography Focus Through Model Calls

There I was, a 2nd and 6th grade teacher, spending my evenings watching Netflix when my husband dropped the truth bomb that would change everything: "You have to do something aside from sitting watching Netflix."

Little did I know that gentle nudge, combined with getting my own wedding photos back, would spark a journey that would lead me to where I am today - a thriving motherhood photographer in West Texas.

The Unexpected Path

It's funny how life works. My mom was actually a photographer when I was young, but I never gave it a second thought. Then I saw my wedding photos, and something clicked (pun intended). That adrenaline rush of seeing those perfect moments captured forever - I wanted to create that magic for others.

I started like most photographers do - shooting anything and everything. Dogs, quinceañeras, portraits - if you needed photos, I was there with my camera ready. But something interesting happened along the way. I discovered a tool that would completely transform my business: the strategic model call.

The Art of the Perfect Model Call

Here's what most photographers get wrong about model calls - they cast too wide a net. "Looking for models!" isn't a strategy; it's a shot in the dark. Instead, I developed an approach that's both more targeted and more personal.

Rather than waiting for submissions, I became the curator of my own vision. I'd seek out specific mothers who embodied exactly what I wanted to capture. Sometimes this meant scrolling through Instagram until I found someone whose aesthetic matched my vision perfectly. Other times, it meant reaching out to that mom I'd seen at the local coffee shop whose authentic connection with her children caught my eye.

But here's the real secret: I make it personal. Instead of a generic photo session, I might suggest baking cookies together or planning something more elaborate that tells their unique story. Yes, I do these sessions for free - something many photographers balk at. But the authentic content and word-of-mouth marketing I get in return? Priceless.

Communication: The Real Game-Changer

As a mom myself, I know the last thing we need is another email to check. That's why I've built my business around what I call "grounded communication." When a potential client reaches out, they get a text, not an email. Because let's be honest - what mom isn't checking their texts while waiting in the school pickup line?

This approach has revolutionized my booking process. Most of my clients go from inquiry to booked in under 30 minutes. No lengthy email chains, no back-and-forth scheduling nightmares. Just simple, straightforward communication that respects a mom's time and energy.

Finding My Focus

The journey hasn't always been smooth. By December 31st, 2022, I faced a pivotal moment. I had given myself an ultimatum: book one more wedding or pivot completely to motherhood photography. When no wedding materialized, I took the leap and never looked back.

Sure, there are still moments of doubt. Bookings come in waves, and during those quiet periods, it's easy to worry. But then I remember how far I've come from those Netflix-watching days, and I trust the process.

Your Turn to Pivot

Whether you're a photographer looking to narrow your focus or a mom searching for your next chapter, remember this: sometimes the best opportunities come from letting go of what's not working and embracing what feels right. For me, that meant trading wedding bells for baby giggles and finding my groove in motherhood photography.

And if you're wondering about those model calls? Start small, be specific, and don't be afraid to reach out personally. The worst they can say is no, but the best? Well, that could be the beginning of your next creative chapter.

Chelsea is a motherhood photographer based in West Texas, specializing in newborn, family, maternity, and motherhood photography. When she's not behind the camera, you can find her texting with clients (because who has time for email?) and planning her next creative model call.

Follow her work on her IG and website, and let us know about your next model call!