BOOKED, NOT BUSY

 
 

LET’S GET YOU BOOKED, NOT BUSY, BABY!

 

I started my photography business at 16 with nothing but a camera and a dream. I had no idea what I was doing, but through trial and error (and a lot of late nights), I turned it into a thriving career. Along the way, I learned that success isn’t just about great photos—it’s about growing, learning, and building a business that feels as good as it looks.

If I can do it, so can you. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to take things to the next level, you have what it takes to make your vision a reality. I’ve been in your shoes, and I know how overwhelming it can feel. That’s why I’m here to guide you, cheer you on, and help you reach the success you’re dreaming of.

Let’s make it happen—together. I’m so excited to be part of your journey!

 

10 Habits of Successful Photographers | How to Grow as a Photographer

Success in photography isn’t just about talent—it’s about habits. The best photographers aren’t just good at taking photos; they’re disciplined, strategic, and constantly evolving. If you’re trying to turn photography into a full-time career, these 10 habits will set you apart and help you attract more clients, improve your craft, and run a profitable business.

 

online MENTORING

1:1 mentor sessions for
aspiring & motivated photographers

If you’re a photographer feeling overwhelmed or just figuring things out, I get it—I’ve been there too. Running a photography business can feel like a lot, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you need a quick 45-minute video session to tackle a specific challenge or want month-to-month messaging support to work through it all step by step, I’m here to help. Together, we’ll create a plan that fits you—streamlining your workflow, crafting amazing client experiences, and finding balance so your business feels as good as it looks. Let’s chat and get you from busy to booked with a little less stress and a lot more confidence. You’ve got this—and I’ve got you!

 

LOVE NOTES

 
Featured
Carly Jean Photography
Carly Jean Photography

I decided to embark on Hollys mentorship program not knowing what kind of success I was going to make in such a short period of time.

I started my photography business 5 years ago. I started out just wanting to see if I could make this into a side job. Not realizing how much I would love it. I continued to book sessions for a few years then my husband and I decided to start a family. To which I put my plans for photography on hold. I didn't know if I wanted to continue doing it on the side with having my children. After a few months without picking up my camera I one day chose to take some pictures of my daughter and fell back in love with photography! From there I continued to pursue photography but wasn't having much success. I would get a few inquiries maybe a couple of bookings but I wasn't getting the traffic I was looking for. I was struggling with getting engagement with my posts or barely getting any views in my stories. I decided to embark on Hollys mentorship program not knowing what kind of success I was going to make in such a short period of time. When I tell you how quick I mean within the first month! I went from getting no bookings, to completely selling out of my Greenhouse Mommy and Me session. Getting bookings every week, having more views on my instagram stories and people actually liking and commenting on my posts. Holly was an amazing mentor. She has changed the way I look at this business. I am very passionate in what I do. I put my heart and soul into every session, every post and every story I share. Holly is compassionate, personable, determined, and an amazing teacher! I couldn't have done this without her! You need to book her! You don't know what your missing! See Carly’s Website Here

Mackenzie Wryghte Photography
Mackenzie Wryghte Photography

This was SO helpful to me as I'm someone who needs to talk ideas through with someone…

I booked an online audit with Holly because I was at a loss with my website. I knew I needed to restructure it but wasn't quite sure where to start. I tried multiple times (guyyys thats hours and hours of work) on my own but wasn't ever happy with the end result. Frustrated, I knew I needed to try something different. In steps Holly; the most kind, encouraging and genuine person you will ever interact with. She did a breakdown of my website for me and shared her 10+ years of expertise with me. She did this all insanely fast too!! From tips on how to lay out my website to be more user friendly, to SEO tips, and suggestions on how I can re-word my 'sales pitch' she offered a wealth of knowledge in an easy to utilize and practical manner. She also offered one on one messaging during the period we were doing the audit together. This was SO helpful to me as I'm someone who needs to talk ideas through with someone… and who better than to sound off on someone who is the best in the biz? I've had so many compliments since on my website and feel so proud of it. HIRE HER!!! Check out Mackenzies Website Here!

Carly Graham Photography
Carly Graham Photography

As someone who has benefited from Hollys expertise and guidance, I can confidently say she is an exceptional mentor who has a huge passion in helping other photographers succeed.

Holly has provided me with valuable insights and practical advise on how to plan, organize and execute mini sessions. Her ability to communicate her overwhelming amount of knowledge in a clear and concise manner has undoubtedly helped me develop my skills and style. Her feedback has been constructive and insightful, helping me identify the areas I can improve in and encouraging me to experiment. Thanks to her, my Mother’s Day mini sessions has been transformed into a successful event, that would have taken me years to figure out all the details (for the record I tried to run a mini session day in the winter, no one booked. I asked Holly for some guidance and my Mother’s Day mini sessions were 70% booked in the first week). Hollys commitment and passion have been invaluable to me. I would highly recommend her services to anyone looking to improve their skills and take their photography business to the next level. Check out Carly’s website here!

Autumn Liggett photo
Autumn Liggett photo

I had a mentorship meeting with Holly when I felt like my photo business was starting to really take off.

I had goals I wanted to accomplish but also needed some clarity on how to keep on top of my backend stuff. Holly was so helpful with explaining how to keep track of my expenses, what I needed to be mindful of, and where my pricing should be in order to hit my goals. She also suggested ways to market my ideal clientele. When tax season came, I felt confident knowing I had all my ducks in a row, and I was also happy to see I exceeded my year end goal. After the mentorship meeting it was nice knowing I could check in with Holly whenever I had a question and she was quick to assist! I highly recommend a mentorship with Holly as she is patient, knowledgeable, and is here to make sure your business thrives! https://www.autumnliggettphoto.com/

Samantha Deck Photography
Samantha Deck Photography

I was self taught, but knew I had a long way to go in becoming a successful photographer.

I had been following Holly on Instagram for years, and was always inspired by her natural and elegant editing style. Holly taught me the importance of camera settings and how valuable a RAW image can be. When I was asking so many questions, I never once felt lesser than her. Holly was so patient with me and provided me with so much guidance from day one. From teaching and showing me everything from posing, lighting, and photographer positioning, to flash settings and creating the best client experience, Holly elevated me as a photographer and helped me not only become a successful associate for herself, but also for my own company. If you have the opportunity to learn from Holly, take it. I have the upmost respect for someone who has put in the work herself, and is still willing to share her knowledge to help her associates and anyone willing to learn. You will not regret investing in education from Holly, I couldn’t be more thankful to continuously be learning from one of the most genuine, talented photographers in Prince Edward County. https://samanthadeckphotography.com/

William Gregory Films & Photos
William Gregory Films & Photos

WHEN I STARTED WORKING WITH HOLLY I SAW MY CREATIVE BUSINESS AS SOMETHING THAT WOULD NEVER BE MORE THAN A HOBBY.

I felt I would never see true success in my business because of how many other creatives were already in the industry, it just seemed like there was no hope of growing. In less than 6 months after working with Holly as a mentor I was able to book over 30 weddings for the 2021 wedding season (this was my first year in business) and now in November of 2022 I’m beginning to hire my own team of creatives that will allow me to expand even more. With Holly’s help the dream of my “hobby” becoming my career turned into a reality and now I’m literally living my best life. She is not only a world class photographer but a wealth of knowledge in creative business strategy as well. She was and still is the edge I have over my competitors and I can’t recommend her enough. https://wgfilmsandphotos.com/

 

GET EDUCATED

presets

Speed up your process with selected presets pack for a natural & bright feel.

These presets were created for my own work at Holly McMurter Photographs, but have stood the test of time and have performed beautifully on all of my associates work, as well. They are classic, timeless and made to give your images a natural, yet bright feel that won’t make you cringe in ten years when you’re looking back at the constantly changing trends of the ‘20s.

Follow my work
on instagram

 
INSTAGRAM

Creating community is so important to me whether it’s with my clients or students. Follow along on social media to see some behind the scenes & what the team is currently up to.