Hi Reader,
As a wildlife photographer, I love being in nature, it’s my space. I feel comfortable there.
Like you, I’d much rather talk about the way the light hit a fox’s fur at sunrise than write a sales email. Selling just feels so unnatural, like suddenly you’re supposed to be someone else, louder, pushier, more polished. UGH. I hate it.
But I’ve learned it doesn’t have to be that way. You can sell and still sound like you.
Why This Matters
Because if it feels forced, people can tell.
You don’t have to twist yourself into some “sales” version of you to get people to buy. The reality is, people are drawn to the same thing that drew them to your photos in the first place, your authenticity.
You’re already telling stories through your images. Think of selling as just another way of sharing that story. It’s about helping people connect to something you’ve created that might mean something to them, too.
That’s all selling should really be about - connection.
This Edition’s Focus: How to Sell Without Feeling Salesy
Here are some suggestions I use when selling
1. Just Talk Like Yourself
If you wouldn’t say it in real life, don’t write it. You don’t need to sound like a store. Forget phrases like “limited time only” or “don’t miss out.”
Instead, just say it how you’d actually say it: “These tend to go fast every year, so if one speaks to you, grab it while it’s still available.”
That’s it. Still true, just sounds human and like you.
2. Tell the Story
If you struggle with “what to say,” start with the story. What made you take the shot? What does this place mean to you? What do you remember about the moment?
That’s the kind of thing people connect with, and it keeps you authentic. As a wildlife photographer, you are a storyteller, keep telling stories.
People don’t want a pitch; they want a glimpse into your world.
3. Don’t Try to Convince Anyone
You don’t have to “close the sale.” Just share what you love, why you love it, and then let people decide.
If it’s the right person, they’ll feel it. If it’s not, that’s okay too, you’re building trust either way.
4. Drop the Pressure
You can create excitement without sounding pushy.
If something’s limited, say so. But say it honestly: “I only print a few of these a year because I want to keep them special.”
That feels respectful, not salesy.
5. Believing in Your Work Isn’t Bragging
It’s not “salesy” to believe your work has value. It’s confidence.
You’ve spent hours in the field. You’ve learned. You’ve grown. You’ve earned it. You can stand behind your prices and still be humble.
You’re not forcing anyone to buy, you’re giving them a chance to own something that means something to you.
Your Challenge This Week
Write one message about your Black Friday offer, a print, a bundle, a workshop, like you’re talking to a friend who asked, “What are you working on lately?”
Forget everything you think you’re supposed to say. Just tell them what you’ve created, why you made it, and what you hope it gives someone.
Make that your sales message.
What’s Next
Next time, we’ll talk about how to write your Black Friday emails so they still sound like you, no scripts, no countdowns, just a real conversation with your audience that shows the authentic you.
Because when it comes down to it, the best sales don’t come from pressure. They come from honesty.
With gratitude and respect,
