Today we’d like to introduce you to Jean Tully.
Hi Jean, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I fell in love with photography when I was just 16, working at a JCPenney portrait studio. That job introduced me to the magic of capturing moments, and I was hooked. I went on to study photography in college, back when everything was still shot on film. The creative side came naturally to me—but running a business was something I had to learn entirely on my own.
I started my own photography business driven by a deep passion for creating beautiful, emotional images that celebrate life’s most meaningful milestones. But turning that passion into a sustainable business was no easy task. I had to figure out marketing, pricing, client experience, and how to adapt when digital photography completely changed the industry landscape.
Through every challenge, I stayed committed to evolving—because I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. Over time, my work grew into four distinct brands. Pearlescent Portraits for families, seniors, headshots, and branding. Adored Boudoir Photography to empower women through bold, transformative portraits. Capow! Columbus, a one-of-a-kind superhero portrait experience. And now, Photography for Profits, where I help other photographers turn their passion into a profitable business—just like I had to learn to do.
My journey has been full of trial and error, but every lesson has been worth it to keep doing what I love.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—one of the biggest challenges came when digital cameras became widely accessible. Suddenly, anyone could buy a relatively inexpensive DSLR and call themselves a photographer. I found myself competing with people who had little to no experience, no formal training, no insurance, no business license, and who weren’t paying taxes—yet were offering incredibly low prices that undervalued the industry.
It was frustrating, especially after putting in years of education, hands-on experience, and personal investment into building a legitimate business. But instead of letting it discourage me, I took it as a push to grow and improve. I knew I had to stand out not just with beautiful images, but with an exceptional client experience, a professional presence, and services that had real value.
That shift in the industry forced me to level up in every way—creatively, professionally, and personally. It challenged me to become not just a better photographer, but a stronger business owner. Looking back, that obstacle ended up being one of the best things that ever happened to me.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Photography for Profits is a business built from experience, persistence, and a deep desire to help other photographers succeed—both creatively and financially. Whether you’re just starting out and want to avoid the overwhelm of figuring it all out on your own, or you’re an established photographer who’s struggling to hit your goals despite your talent, Photography for Profits is here to guide you.
We specialize in helping photographers cut the learning curve so they can build sustainable, profitable businesses doing what they love. From pricing and marketing to client experience and mindset shifts, we focus on the real-world strategies that actually move the needle—not just theory or fluff.
What sets us apart is that we’re not just teaching business—we’ve lived it. I’ve spent years building multiple successful brands in a rapidly changing industry, learning firsthand what works and what doesn’t. I know how lonely and frustrating it can be to feel like you’re spinning your wheels. That’s why I created a space where photographers can get clear, actionable support—whether they’re picking up a camera for the first time or trying to level up after years in the field.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the impact we’re making. I’ve seen photographers go from burnout to booked out. From self-doubt to sold-out sessions. Watching someone finally believe in their own value and create a business that supports the life they want—that’s everything.
At the end of the day, Photography for Profits is about helping you build a business that works for you—not one that drains you. I want readers to know: you don’t have to figure this all out alone. If you’re ready to turn your passion into profit, we’re here to walk that journey with you.
Any big plans?
Looking ahead, Photography for Profits is focused on continuing to help photographers elevate the industry by building businesses rooted in honesty, professionalism, and sustainable profitability. We’re proud to be part of a movement that’s shifting the narrative—away from the “starving artist” mindset and toward a future where photographers are confident, respected, and well-compensated for their work.
One of our biggest goals is to help more photographers embrace transparent and fair business practices. That means no more underhanded tactics like hiding prices until after the photos are taken or charging rates so low that there’s no profit left after expenses. We believe in empowering photographers to charge what they’re worth—and to do it with clarity and integrity.
In the future, we’re expanding our offerings to include more in-depth courses, group coaching, and community resources designed to meet photographers wherever they are in their journey. We’re also building partnerships and collaborations to create even more opportunities for learning and growth within the industry.
Ultimately, we’re excited about helping photographers not just survive, but thrive—doing what they love, without sacrificing their time, energy, or values.
Pricing:
- Starting at just $7
Contact Info:
- Website: https://photographyforprofits.bigcartel.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photographyforprofits/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1123493768728228
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/photography-for-profits/
