Lessons behind this $10,000 Photo (Part 1)
A picture isn’t just worth a thousand words … it can be worth a $10,000 keynote and a thriving speaking business.
Below I’m unpacking the story behind a recent keynote I delivered, and how one single photo holds multiple lessons for anyone who wants to get PAID to $PEAK.
In these posts, I often share what went right; sometimes I share what went wrong; and usually, I share what I’ll never do again.
This is all real-time insight from the front lines of my own speaking business, so you can skip the costly mistakes and focus on what works.
Behind the Speech: How I Landed the Speaking Engagement Behind this Photo
I was hired to keynote for a major healthcare company. How? Through a referral, from someone who saw me speak at an association event. They reached out to me after seeing me speak.
This is exactly what I teach in Module 3 of my book, PAID to $PEAK; How to Become a Professional Speaker.
Speak for associations. Get seen. Get booked again.
If you’re not sure which associations to target or how to get in front of them, read Module 3 inside PAID to $PEAK.
The Power of One Photo
This image was captured by the client’s own photographer. I didn’t pay a cent for it. Why?
Because of one clause in my speaker agreement that most speakers overlook... permission for photo and video capture.
Here’s what that clause does:
- Encourages the client to capture content
- Requires they share it with me
- Saves thousands on hiring a photographer or videographer
Speaker Tip: Whether you’re speaking for free or $15,000, always use a speaker agreement that includes:
- Photo and video rights
- Fee confidentiality
- AV checklist
- Deposit expectations
- Force majeure clause
- Book sales info... and more.
If you're a subscriber to The Vault or one of my coaching clients, you already have access to all my speaking templates. These aren’t just contracts, they're strategic business tools that have protected and provided over $100,000 in value to my speaking business.
Lessons From the Photo, Part I
Yes, one photo can teach multiple lessons. Here's what’s inside:
#1: The Camera
That little circle in the back? It’s my iPhone on a tripod. Even when the client records, I always record myself. It becomes demo footage, b-roll, and coaching review.
Speaker Tip: You speak to get video. No excuses.
#2: The Spotlight
Most people skip this, I don’t. I insist on a tech check with actual lighting on so there are no surprises. That one move improved the room for everyone, and the CEO noticed.
Speaker Tip: Know your stage. Avoid blackout zones. Walk it, test it, own it.
#3: The Lectern
Avoid it. Professional speakers don’t hide behind it, they move it back and own the stage. Also: know the difference between a lectern (what you stand behind) and a podium (what you stand on).
Speaker Tip: Use an AV checklist. Send it with your contract. Be low-maintenance, high-impact.
More Lessons Coming Soon...
In Part II, I’ll share why I use my own laptop (and place it on the floor), why books are always on stage with me, and how that leads to referrals and repeat gigs. This one photo has even more to teach.
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To your speaking success,
Kevin Snyder
Certified Speaking Professional (CSP)
Earn greatness today. Onward and upward.