Ready to finally start your email list? In this episode, we’re breaking down exactly how to get started with email marketing as a photographer or creative — even if you’re not an educator. We walk through how to create your first freebie, set up a simple nurture sequence, and understand how a sales funnel can work in the background to serve your clients and book more of the work you love.

Plus, I’m sharing why I use Flodesk for all of my email marketing, and how it makes sending beautiful, on-brand emails easy and actually fun. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start your email list, this is it!

Listen to this episode now:

Listen on your favorite platform: APPLE, SPOTIFY, and STITCHER.

⭐️ If you enjoyed this episode, I’d be so appreciative in you left this podcast a 5-star rating and review

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How to Get Started with Email Marketing (Even if You’re Starting from Scratch)

If the phrase “start an email list” makes your stomach turn or your brain spin, you’re not alone.

So many creative business owners know they should be building an email list—but feel overwhelmed by where to even begin. Social media is noisy, algorithms are unpredictable, and you want a way to connect with your people directly. Email is the answer. It’s more intimate, more reliable, and more profitable than any other marketing channel out there.

In this post (which pairs with my podcast episode of the same name!), we’re breaking down the real basics of email marketing: what it is, why it matters, and how to start your list without overcomplicating it.

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Why Email Marketing Still Works (and Always Will)

Unlike social media, email marketing puts you in direct contact with your audience. You’re not shouting into the void, hoping an algorithm decides your post is worthy. You’re landing directly in someone’s inbox, invited and welcomed.

Here’s why that matters:

• You own your list. You’re not at the mercy of a platform that could change overnight.
• You build real connection. Emails feel more personal and intentional.
• You increase conversions. Email still outperforms social in nearly every way when it comes to sales and engagement.

If you’re building a business that lasts, your email list needs to be part of your foundation.

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Step 1: Pick a Platform (Why I Use Flodesk)

There are a lot of email platforms out there, but after trying several, Flodesk is the one I keep coming back to—and recommend to all my creative clients.

Flodesk helps me:

• Build beautiful emails without needing a designer or coder
• Create opt-in forms and landing pages in minutes
• Set up automations (like welcome sequences) without the tech headache
• Organize my audience with simple tagging and segments
• Send emails that actually reflect my brand vibe

It’s intuitive, elegant, and perfect for beginners and seasoned business owners alike. Plus: you’ll never be penalized for growing your list—the price stays the same no matter how big it gets.

👉 Try Flodesk with my link and get 50% off

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Step 2: Set Up Your First Form or Freebie

You don’t need to have a complicated funnel to start. Just a simple form and a compelling reason to subscribe.

Start here:

• Create a form that connects to your Flodesk account (pop-up, inline, or standalone)
• Offer something simple: a tip list, a discount, a mini resource, or even just “join my insider list for updates and exclusive content”
• Keep the form visible on your website—your homepage, blog sidebar, and contact page are great spots

Remember: people are more likely to sign up if they know what they’re going to get and why it’s worth it.

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Step 3: Send Your First Email

Once someone joins your list, don’t ghost them!

Your first email can be simple:

• Say hello
• Thank them for joining
• Let them know what to expect from you going forward

From there, you can build a rhythm, weekly, bi-weekly, or even monthly emails that share helpful content, behind-the-scenes updates, product launches, or whatever is relevant to your business.

Don’t overthink it. The goal is consistency and connection, not perfection.

🎉 Try Flodesk here for 50% off now

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Got questions about email marketing, Flodesk, or what to send your list? Drop them in the comments or DM me on Instagram. I’d love to help you get unstuck.

And if you haven’t yet, give the podcast episode a listen for even more tips and real-talk encouragement on starting your list.

Links Mentioned:

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