How to Use AI & Instagram to Grow Your Photography Business with Michelle Gifford

In this episode, Michelle Gifford joins Jaime Bugbee for a conversation about AI, Instagram growth, authentic marketing, and what business owners are getting wrong about content creation right now. If you've been wondering how to use AI without sounding robotic, how to grow on Instagram in a way that actually feels sustainable, or how to create content that connects with real people, this episode is packed with practical takeaways you can start using immediately. Michelle shares her thoughts on: Using AI to enhance connection instead of replace it Creating more human content in the age of AI How women-owned businesses can use Instagram more strategically Why messaging clarity matters more than ever The biggest mistakes people make with social media Tips for getting more comfortable talking on camera How Michelle AI can help streamline your content creation process Combining SEO and social media for long-term business growth Whether you're a photographer, creative entrepreneur, or small business owner trying to grow online without living on social media 24/7, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired and equipped with actionable strategies. Connect with Michelle Gifford Michelle Gifford on Instagram Michelle Gifford Website Michelle AI Resources & Links Learn more about Jaime Bugbee, a Portland and Vancouver family photographer: Jaime Bugbee Photography Explore The Booked Photographer mentorship for photographers wanting to get booked through Google and SEO: The Booked PhotograpHER Mentorship Course Want more on AI and SEO? Listen to the previous episode: "Is SEO Dead in the Age of AI?" Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:30 Michelle Gifford's Background and Expertise 01:27 AI in Marketing and Michelle AI Tool 02:14 Michelle's Transition from Photography to Marketing 03:10 Helping Women-Owned Businesses Grow 04:37 The Power of Instagram for Women Entrepreneurs 07:54 Current Trends in Instagram and Social Media 08:38 AI's Role in Social Media and Connection 09:35 Using AI to Enhance Human Connection 11:21 Overcoming Shyness and Talking to Camera 13:37 Tips for Getting Comfortable on Camera 14:35 Where People Underestimate AI's Potential 17:46 Creating Your Custom GPT with Michelle AI 19:59 Who Can Benefit from Michelle AI 21:25 Training Michelle AI with Your Voice and Frameworks 23:50 Michelle AI's Impact on Business Growth 28:44 Using Instagram Features Effectively with AI 32:24 The Importance of Clear Messaging and Niche Focus 35:55 Micro-Problem Solving for Better Engagement 43:13 Authenticity and Connecting with Your Audience 45:58 Strategies for Staying Updated with Social Media Changes 49:27 The Mindset Shift: Serving Over Self-Consciousness 50:48 Final Tips and How to Find Michelle