Freedom Focus Photography - previously the Hair of the Dog Podcast

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Welcome to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, the essential audio hub for portrait photographers eager to launch and elevate their businesses to achieve their ideal version of success. 

Hosted by Nicole Begley, a former zoological animal trainer turned accomplished family and then pet/equine photographer, this podcast is your go-to resource for transforming your photographic passion into a thriving business.


Since making the leap into photography in 2010 and quickly scaling her business to six figures, Nicole has dedicated herself to guiding photographers like you to transform their businesses from low-profit, high-stress operations into a profitable, sustainable businesses by teaching how to confidently price your services, sell products, and attract higher-paying clients. 


Join Nicole and a vibrant community of like-minded photographers on the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast. Together, we'll explore the paths to a profitable photography business that supports the life you've always envisioned. 

Recent Episodes
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Recent Reviews
  • Cheery33
    Always great
    Nicole always provides insight and fresh ideas about the business of photography.
  • Chitownsabby
    Thank you!!!
    Love this podcast, learn something new every time! Keep up the great work y’all!
  • Eye_Bleach
    SO much good stuff!
    I have learned SO much from this podcast the past couple of years. The stuff Nicole shares has been invaluable. Thank you!!!!
  • Townej
    Favorite pet photography podcast
    I am on my way through all the podcasts for the second time. Fun to listen to, very clear sound, and great information about pet photography. There is also information on growing as a person. I was never a podcast listener before, now I am hooked! Keep them coming!
  • Aheisa
    A must listen!
    Whether a hobbyist or professional, this podcast is so educational beyond just pet photography! Even some of the principals of mindset can be used in all spectrums of life. Highly recommend!
  • idpostbuticant
    Great Podcast!
    Hair of the Dog is a great source of information. It’s always interesting and entertaining, with real-life and actionable material and advice. I never miss an episode!
  • &$()$&&:9:$!:!,$;&392)/),$3&:
    Not it
    Lotta old ladies and useless talking. Constantly repeating stuff in previous episodes. Guests are often not even credited and so therefore I have no clue if these people telling me something different than successful creators even know what they’re talking about or if their strategies work. Yeah they may work for the hair of the dog academy but what’s that say? Like why are you advocating for us to be dog photographers yet you’re not doing it anymore… business must be booming. Just manage your expectations.
  • Okkat1969
    Favorite podcast for pet photography business, but also good personal stuff!
    Thanks so much for sharing your vulnerability and bravery today in Ep. 132. It takes a LOT of courage to continue on when you just want to collapse in tears. Appreciate your humanity!
  • The Inspiration Place
    Awesome podcast
    Love this show. I particularly like your "Business Pillar" episodes. As a professional artist, I recognize how important it is to have these essential foundations in place. I’m looking forward to more episodes!!
  • PetLover624
    Overwhelm is a Choice
    OMG! Just what I needed to hear today. Nicole hit it right on the head with this one. Thank you so much for these great podcasts.
  • VAPetTog
    Informative and very useful
    This podcast shares a wealth of useful and practical information for all photographers. I listen to many of the Podcasts several times and take notes.I highly recommend it for all photographers, not just pet photographers.
  • SuperGirl_30
    So Helpful!
    Nicole and her guests really break it down so a new pet photographer (or even one that’s been around awhile) isn’t overwhelmed and feels like this really is something you can achieve. Definitely a good listen. :-)
  • Flygirlps
    The best!!!
    A must for any animal/pet Photographer!!!
  • punkybeth
    Invaluable resource for pet photographers!
    The Hair of the Dog Podcast is just another one of the amazing resources that Nicole Begley has created for pet photographers! Running a photography business is so much more than taking pretty pictures. Nicole and her guests share so much more on the HOD podcast, the information is truly invaluable!
  • Krussohzg
    Very interesting topics
    This is a very informative podcast and I’m learning much from the discussions. I’m also very impressed with the variety of interview guests. My only critique is that the host tends to monopolize the conversation a little. It gets a little frustrating because I’m very interested in hearing from the guest but they don’t get a chance to say very much.
  • RockyMountainWriter
    Quality Content
    I have been inspired and encouraged many times over by the wonderful variety of guests on this podcast. I never knew there were so many pet photographers out there, and how many different ways there are to run a successful business. The host, Nicole, also offers valuable tips and tricks to the trade, the only reason I dock a star is she does tend to talk over her guests and bring it back to her, which I suppose it is her podcast, but I wish she would let the guests talk uninterrupted more often instead of cutting some valuable thoughts short.
  • Lkap1481
    Very helpful
    Just listened to the Social Marketing Made Easy episode. Really needed the helpful insight as I’ve been struggling in this department. I wrote notes but I might listen to it again, it was very inspiring! Thanks Nicole and Deb!
  • MauraVT
    Fantastic!
    Listened to my fist episode and I’m hooked. I photograph mostly High School Seniors and some pets, but I found most of the information shared in the podcast to be compeatly helpful for all types of photography. Clear, easy to understand, and delivered in a positive manner. I will definitely be back for more. Thanks so much!
  • RoyalBPhotogrpahy
    LOVE!
    Recently discovered this podcast and I’m flying through episodes. I’ve already shared it with my Midwest young photographers group. I’m based in the Black Hills and I’ve been shooting since I was in 4-H. I’ve had business on and off in the last couple of years and these episodes really make me rethink everything and get serious about what I want my business to look like!
  • Tootietooteroni
    Sparks of inspiration
    Nicole creates so much inspiration in everything she touches, and this podcast is no different. No matter the length of the episode, each one will leave you with plenty of new ideas to bring your business to the next level. On top of great content, Nicole has a great podcasting voice which makes for lovely listening!!!
  • Dlundin
    An Essential Podcast for Pet Photographers!
    Nicole Begley does it again! When she puts the imprimatur of Hair of the Dog on something, you know what she’s developed will be first class and this podcast is no exception. Nicole works really hard in all aspects of Hair of the Dog — from her academy to her Facebook groups to this podcast — to bring pertinent, vital information to grow your pet photography business. She’s smart and fun. You can’t go wrong.
  • heartnurse102
    How does she do it???
    It must be a talent or Nicole has been inside my head, because every episode that comes out covers the exact dilemma or concern I have. She has a straight forward way of putting my mind at ease and giving me the confidence to keep going!! Thank you for this podcast! I look forward to each new episode. Brenda Watson, budding Pet Photographer
  • KJMUrray5
    Everything that was missing in my life!
    I’ve listened to countless photography podcasts and this one is just what I’ve been missing. Nicole is just a powerhouse of information and while every niche of photographers can take away nuggets of information, it’s geared specifically to pet photographers! I look forward to Tuesday’s now!
  • behindthejersey
    Actionable Tips for Pet Photographers
    I’ve been following Nicole’s online work for a long time, so I was thrilled when she announced a podcast. In just her first few episodes, she has already provided so much actionable advice for pet photographers. If you’re looking for a photog business podcast with weekly tips that you can actually apply to your business right away, listen to her podcast. You won’t regret it!
  • CynthiaWolf
    Motivational Insights!!
    I've listened to all 3 podcasts and each has great nuggets of information! #1 Procrastination resonated with me. It's made me examine the reasons behind why I put things off. The interview in podcast 2 with the photographers was fantastic! I implement several of their boutique biz ideas already, but it sparked new ideas that I will add! I listened to Myth of Organic Marketing and today brainstorming creative offers to the leads I have! Thank you for creating this inspiring podcast!
  • Aw331999
    Lots of Golden Nuggets!
    Great topics. Great guests. Fantastic information. Nicole won’t disappoint. Plus she’s funny. Definitely a podcast I will listen to every week!
  • SheilaBrauning
    Idea Sparking!!
    Listening to Nicole is like having an explosion of new ideas introduced to your brain on a weekly basis. She always has something fresh to present, even if it’s just reassuring you that your thoughts and feelings are normal! I highly recommend adding this podcast to your weekly “to-do” list.
  • Casstx
    Inspirational!!!
    This is something I need to listen to daily because putting off the horrible jobs holds you back so much longer than the time it takes to do it. Nicole always talks complete sense and is so motivating. Anyone who has their own pet photography business can only benefit from listening to anything Nicole has to say.
  • Autumn_Cat_🍂
    Wonderful - Just what I needed
    Love the podcast and can’t wait to hear more. I spend quite some time in the car and podcast are a life saver, specifically when they come from Nicole. I am still pretty new to Hair of the Dog Academy, but can only recommend it. Nicole, keep the podcast coming.
  • Bright Eyes Photos
    Pet Photographer Extraordinaire!
    Nicole is a FAN-tastic communicator and knows from whence she speaks! I always get several ah-ha moments out of her works and these podcasts are no exception. In listening to Organic Marketing I realized that I need to have a "lead magnet" on my website to attract more clients and interact with them! Yikes, I'm on it! Thanks so much Nicole!
  • Timeless Tails
    Amazing Content
    Once again Nicole delivers another incredible source for pet photographers! I’m not a fan of podcasts but I’m listening to hers twice because of the valuable content, tips and genuine wish of wanting all of us to succeed. Can’t wait for the next episode!
  • Tiltedcat
    Best podcast for pet photographers!
    Nicole Begley offers the most valuable tips and suggestions to build your photography business. The Hair of the Dog Academy has helped my business exponentially! Looking forward to learning even more from the podcast.
  • Smurfygirl12
    You don’t have to be a pet photographer to get value from this podcast!
    Authentic is a word that is overused these days and yet I can’t think of a better word to describe Nicole. She has great business experience and actionable advice for any kind of photographer, generously shared in a manner that makes you want to grab a chocolate martini and hang out for hours. I highly recommend this podcast and any of the Hair of The Dog programs.
  • Kris Dog Mom
    Pawsome!
    Everything Nicole produces for us pet photographers is pure gold. Adding a podcast for her to share her vast knowledge in photography, specifically pet photography, is just another platform for her to share all of her wisdom. Nicole has been an awesome mentor, helping me not only with building my business, but helping me to improve my photography skills through the various opportunities she offers. I'm really excited and looking forward to upcoming podcasts and interviews - and so happy I can enjoy these on the go!
  • Keri Parado
    Nicole is so helpful!
    Nicole does a great job of teaching the business of pet photography in a way that is easy for beginners to understand while also providing actionable takeaways for established photographers. I have listened to the first three episodes + gone through each and every program she has put out now, and I am still learning new things I can implement in my business!
  • Mngrad123
    Valuable And Actionable!
    I love Hair of the Dog! This is a community that adds so much value to my work as a pet photographer! Thank you, Nicole, for the time you devote to other professionals and aspiring photographers! This podcast is icing on the cake, with great content, action steps, encouragement and more. Subscribe, listen, join the FB group - you will NOT be sorry!
  • KimHoogkamp
    Love it!
    Loving the podcasts so far! Get content as always!
  • chi crazi
    T Stout
    Wonderful! Thank you Nicole! She is so incredibly smart with this stuff! Well worth time to listen!
  • Sue-101
    Nicole is a marketing genius!
    Nicole is at the top of her game with her advice to pet photographers across the world. I feel so lucky to have found her as a mentor and love her new podcasts!
  • Krystal Hise
    Must listen podcast for pet photographers!!
    Nicole is an incredible mentor, and I am thrilled for this new Hair of the Dog podcast!! She is a wizard at business, and has wonderful insight into how to set yourself up for success. Thank you, Nicole!
  • Brewster27
    Awesome podcast and course
    Nicole Begley has created a fabulous course and community for photographers aspiring to grow and learn from others. Her community is thoughtful and respectful and seeks to encourage all photographers who ask for ideas and input. This podcast is a fabulous way to take the learning with you where you go. I loved the first episode about taking action, and I have learned an amazing amount of actionable information from the course in a short time. I can’t wait to see what I learn in the upcoming months!
  • Jackie PPP
    Photographer
    Great podcast with helpful tips on pet photography!
  • Ldcp007
    Best There Is
    Nichole is the best there is on pet photography business. Thanks to her knowledge and subject matter expert I am growing my pet photography business. I am so happy I will be able to listen to this podcast and continue learning. Subscribe today if you want to learn from the best.
  • brendalizr
    Loved it
    Not a podcaster but definitely sticking with this one. Thanks ❤️🐾
  • Heather Lahtinen
    Fantastic advice! Must listen & subscribe!
    Not only is Nicole one of the best pet photographers in the world, she has an incredible aptitude for business and teaching. Personally, I think photographers of all genres can benefit from her knowledge and wisdom.
  • pandablast802
    Nicole is the best!
    As a full time dog photographer running my own business, I appreciate Nicole putting on this podcast and sharing more valuable information! Love the first three episodes, can’t wait for more!
  • BC928
    Great Podcast
    Loving the new podcast, can’t wait for the next ones to come out. Nicole is so generous with her knowledge.
  • Caballo Kim
    Just what I needed.
    Really needed to hear these thoughts on fear and procrastination today!
  • S Moseley
    Great Stuff
    Love the easy to listen to interview with photographers that have been there and done the work. Filled with practical advise and encouragement, this is something to look forward to each week. Thanks Nicole!
  • Skinnylongnosedogs
    I’m as happy as a dog with two tails
    I have been binge listing to this podcast for 5 days straight! I cannot wait for episode 2!!!!
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