In this episode of The Portrait System Podcast, host Nikki Closser speaks with Albuquerque, New Mexico, photographer Paulina Gwaltney about how she overcame internal blocks to earning money in her portrait business.

Gwaltney emigrated to the U.S. 18 years ago after marrying her sweetheart, an active-duty marine. In the early years of their marriage, the couple moved frequently, ultimately settling in Albuquerque three years ago. After a time living there, Gwaltney realized she could no longer blame her low sales average on their transient lifestyle. Her photography skills are on point, and networking and booking clients come naturally to her, so Gwaltney knew the problem with her income must reside elsewhere. Gwaltney focused intently on the Self-Value and Money Blocks videos on The Portrait System education platform, began to work with a therapist, and achieved her big breakthrough when she hired photographer Saray Taylor-Roman to mentor her.

Gwaltney says, “If you are a people pleaser, I think that’s a good approach. Find someone who you are intimidated by, and you will do as they say. Literally, at this time in my life, I could not make healthy decisions for my business. I was making unhealthy decisions. . .giving too much, not setting boundaries, not charging properly. . . Saray allowed me to shift myself into a more healthy business-owner approach.”

Gwaltney encourages every photographer who is having difficulty charging the prices they are worth to dig deep to find the source of the issue so that you can achieve the success you deserve. Having a support system in place, such as a community of like-minded business owners, mentors, and therapists can be a tremendous aid in getting to the core of self-limiting beliefs. She also urges photographers to hold an attitude of gentleness and grace for yourself. There is no one way to learn, to grow, or run a business. Gwaltney says above all, it’s crucial to address your mental health so that no matter your circumstance you can find the happiness you desire within yourself.

You can learn more about Paulina Gwaltney and how she overcame her internal blocks for earning money on her two websites: Paulina Gwaltney Photography and Share A Shoot, a retreat experience for photographers to mix leisure with vacation and have time and space to create beautiful artistic photography.

The Portrait System Podcast helps portrait photographers navigate the world of photography, business, money, and much more. Hosted by Nikki Closser, the podcast is powered by The Portrait System, a comprehensive, online educational platform that teaches all aspects of running a successful portrait photography studio.