The Business Focused Photographer Podcast

Episode Title: The Human Algorithm: Networking as a Photographer with Tiffany CrenshawGuest: Tiffany Crenshaw, Animal House Photography, North AlabamaWe Discuss:Why Tiffany calls networking “the human algorithm” and why it still beats chasing social media trendsHow her background as a second grade teacher shaped her relationship building skills (and her business success)Moving to Alabama on March 1, 2020 and building momentum anyway through virtual coffee datesThe “client adjacent” strategy: building relationships with doulas, small business owners, and other connector peopleHow one small market turned into years of high value repeat clients (including a $6,000 family purchase)Why people skills matter as much as photo skills, and how client experience starts before the session even happensWhat actually works at booths and vendor events: samples, albums, wall art, and making your setup stop trafficUsing QR codes and email list tags to track where leads come from and follow up intentionallyGetting creative with in person visibility: iPhone photo classes, beginner camera workshops, pop ups, and client eventsHow Tiffany thinks about quarterly goals for in person networking and how she audits events before committingReal talk about confidence dips after price increases and why timing matters (January vs fall)Tiffany’s membership model and how repeat clients create predictable income and less workTLDR:Tiffany Crenshaw breaks down why in person networking is one of the most underrated marketing strategies for photographers. From coffee dates with “client adjacent” professionals to vendor events, workshops, and client appreciation experiences, Tiffany shares practical ways to become top of mind in your community without relying on algorithms. If you want more aligned clients, better referrals, and a marketing strategy that actually feels sustainable, this one will hit.Resources:Follow Tiffany’s business education on Instagram: @TiffanyCrenshawEduSee Tiffany’s photography work: Animal House PhotographyTiffany’s group coaching program: Booked and Balanced (starts January 8)

Episode Title: How I Built This with Rachel Larsen WeaverGuest: Rachel Larsen Weaver, Family Photographer (Long-Form Sessions), Washington, DC areaWe Discuss:Rachel’s early career in restaurants and teaching and how those skills translated into photographyStarting photography through blogging and realizing “documenting” is different than being hired to lead and create imagesBuilding a business without a template and why that actually helped her develop a distinct voiceThe 2019 educational turning point that clarified her creative directionWhy mini sessions flopped for her and how that failure pointed her toward long-form sessions insteadHow long-form sessions took off and became a defining offer in her businessNavigating mentorship, including a harmful experience that shaped her commitment to inclusive, affirming workChoosing educators and coaches wisely and why “great photographer” doesn’t always equal “great teacher”The role pricing plays in attracting aligned clients and protecting the experienceWhy she shoots almost exclusively on film now, and how that supports her workflow and profitabilityHiring an assistant and how that changed her capacity, consistency, and creative energyThe “loving gaze” concept and how she trains her eye and heart to see people with depth and dignityLightning round topics: systems, film preferences, business decisions, time freedom vs financial freedomTLDR:Rachel built her business by getting her reps in, honing her voice, and making offers that match how she actually likes to work.A mini-session flop became a turning point that pushed her toward long-form sessions, which booked fast and fit her clients better.Pricing, clarity in marketing, and a values-forward approach helped her attract clients who are invested in the experience.Shooting film and outsourcing scanning simplifies her workflow so she can spend more time photographing and marketing.The way she sees people is not accidental. It’s practiced, intentional, and foundational to the work.Resources:Learn more about Rachel: https://www.instagram.com/rachel.larsen.weaver/Book mentioned: Beauty: The Invisible Embrace by John O’Donohue

Episode Title: How I Built This with Alan ShapiroGuest: Alan Shapiro, Food, Portrait & Macro Photographer, New YorkWe Discuss:Alan’s origin story from lifelong storyteller to advertising executive to full-time photographerHow burnout in a high-pressure creative career led him back to joy through daily photographyThe role of storytelling, transparency, and consistency in building visibility and trustWhy his most impactful opportunities didn’t come from SEO or email lists, but from showing up in real communitiesThe power of documenting what you care about before anyone is paying youWorking with agencies vs direct clients and how discovery actually happens in 2025Pricing with flexibility and integrity instead of rigid formulasWhy underpricing is almost universal and how Alan navigates it in practiceThe long-term value of relationships over short-term ROIBartering, community support, and “Main Street” marketing as legitimate business strategiesImposter syndrome, perfection paralysis, and embracing “perfectly imperfect” workChoosing variety over specialization and the tradeoffs that come with that decisionWhy photographers need to stop waiting until they feel “ready” to put work into the worldTeaching, mentoring, and staying curious as a way to keep growing creatively and professionallyTLDR:Alan didn’t build his career by chasing clients. He built it by telling stories consistently and caring deeply about the people and subjects in front of him.Visibility came from community, not algorithms.Pricing is contextual, relationship-driven, and tied to opportunity, not hours alone.Imposter syndrome never fully goes away, but humility and enthusiasm can be strengths.Helping others, bartering, and showing up locally still work and often work best.Resources:Website: https://www.alanshapiropho

Episode Title: How I Built This with Becca LueckGuest: Becca Lueck, Becca Jean PhotographyWe Discuss:How Becca got started in photography and what her early business looked likeThe decisions that shaped her growth and the ones she would do differentlyHow her brand and offers evolved over timeThe behind the scenes systems and boundaries that support her work todayWhat sustainability actually looks like at this stage of her businessAdvice Becca would give photographers building their own version of successTLDR:Becca Lueck shares the real story behind building Becca Jean Photography. From early experimentation to refining her offers and workflows, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it actually takes to grow a photography business that works long term. If you love honest conversations about building something steady, intentional, and aligned, this episode is for you.Website: https://beccajeanphotography.com

Episode Title: How I Built This with Maddie PeschongGuest: Maddie Peschong, Maddie Peschong Photography & Co-Founder of White Space Studio, Sioux Falls, SDWe Discuss:How Maddie transitioned from corporate marketing to full-time photographyThe early mistakes that shaped her business model and the turning points that made it thriveBuilding community and collaboration through White Space Studio, her shared studio conceptHow systems and boundaries became the backbone of her business growthCreating educational offers and coaching programs that serve both new and established photographersThe mindset shifts that allowed her to scale without burnoutWhy Maddie believes every photographer should think like a CEO, not just a creativeTLDR:Maddie Peschong shares the real story behind building her multifaceted photography business—from her first shoots to leading a thriving studio and education brand. She opens up about the systems, boundaries, and mindset work that helped her turn creative chaos into long-term sustainability. Whether you’re in the messy middle of your business or dreaming about your next pivot, Maddie’s story will leave you inspired to build something that truly fits your life.Resources:Learn more about Maddie’s coaching programs and templates: https://maddiepeschong.comFollow Maddie on Instagram: @maddiepeschongExplore White Space Studio: https://whitespacesiouxfalls.com

Episode Title: Sales Psychology with Helena WongGuest: Helena Wong, Helena Wong Photography, San Francisco Bay AreaWe Discuss:Why sales psychology matters even if you think you’re “not a sales person”How Helena took her tech sales background and used it to 4x her photography businessThe real way to build a client avatar that actually helps you book aligned clientsHow to understand buyer behavior and money stories in different demographicsMarketing choices that prime your clients to see themselves in your workThe psychology behind anchoring numbers, price presentation, and custom proposalsHow to guide a sales call without talking the whole timeWhy your brand needs three defining words and how this shapes what you postWhat it really looks like to raise your prices and move into a new marketHow to get clients saying yes long before you ever talk about pricingMindset and emotional resilience when you’re transitioning to a new level in businessWhy showing your actual personality is the non negotiable piece that makes sales easierTLDR:Today’s episode digs into the psychology behind why people buy and how to use that to create a smoother, more effective sales process. Helena shares exactly how she built her client avatar, how she primes clients for yes, why silence on sales calls matters, and how to position your pricing so people understand your value. This conversation is packed with practical, actionable advice for anyone ready to level up their sales skills and book more of the right clients.Resources:Learn more about The Creative CEO coaching program: https://helenawongphotography.com/educationFollow Helena on Instagram: @helenawongphotographyListen to her podcast Under the Veil

Guest: None (Solo Episode with Jill C. Smith)We Discuss:Why every photographer has a sales funnel — even if it wasn’t intentionally builtHow to recognize when your funnel has kinks (complete blockages) or leaks (quiet revenue loss)Common “kinks” that stop inquiries entirely, like broken links, missing calls to action, or poor mobile formattingThe “leaks” that quietly drain your income, like misaligned branding, weak follow-up, or lack of client nurturingHow to audit your funnel before Black Friday to make sure you’re ready for new bookingsThe importance of fast response times, current testimonials, and staying visible locallyWhy repeat clients are your most valuable asset — and how to retain themHow to balance new client attraction with retention in a changing marketTLDR:Whether or not you built one intentionally, your business has a sales funnel — and if your inquiries or bookings have slowed, something in it isn’t working the way it should. In this episode, Jill breaks down how to identify and fix the two most common problems: kinks, which completely block your flow of leads, and leaks, which quietly cost you revenue over time. You’ll learn how to audit your website, follow-up process, client experience, and visibility before Black Friday so your systems are ready to receive new bookings and keep past clients coming back.Resources:Google Business Profile: https://www.google.com/business/SEO Checker (Free Tool): https://neilpatel.com/seo-analyzer/

Episode Title: Selling Is ServiceGuest: Rhea Whitney, Rhea Whitney Photography & The Photo Bomb AcademyWe Discuss:Why photographers often fear “selling” — and how to reframe it as service, not pressureThe real difference between sales and marketing (and why confusing them stalls growth)How to handle rejection, overcome fear, and stop projecting your own money story onto clientsWhy aligned clients pay more, refer more, and make you love your job againPricing systems that make sense for your lifestyle, whether you’re full-time or balancing a 9–5Building confidence through data: using your cost of doing business to back your pricesThe importance of vetting clients just as much as they vet youSetting boundaries, honoring energy, and letting “no” make space for better “yeses”The mindset shifts that turn selling from sleazy to soulfulRhea’s Elevate Accelerator program and how she helps photographers reach consistent five-figure monthsTLDR:Sales and marketing aren’t the same thing — marketing gets attention, selling creates transformation.When done right, selling is serving. It’s how you guide clients toward something they already want.Stop pricing from your own wallet and start using data to justify your rates.Aligned clients are born from clear communication, confidence, and boundaries.Your business isn’t just art — it’s energy exchange, and selling is how you keep that energy flowing.Resources:Learn more about Elevate Accelerator and join the upcoming Six Figures & Beyond Webinar (Nov 18): comment “webinar” on InstagramFollow @rheawhitney on Instagram and TikTokExplore Rhea’s educational programs at rheawhitney.comConnect with The Photo Bomb Academy for more resources on pricing, mindset, and business strategy

Episode Title: Licensed Counselor, Working Photographer: Real ADHD ToolsGuest: Andrea Pittman, Andrea Michelle Photography & Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Arizona + WashingtonWe Discuss:How Andrea built a dual career as a wedding/lifestyle photographer and an ADHD-specialized therapist across two statesWhy photography’s variety and flexibility can be a great fit for ADHD brainsThe real sticking point for many solopreneurs with ADHD: business operations, bookkeeping, and “invisible” admin workReframing procrastination as time perception and adrenaline seeking, not failurePractical tools: body doubling, pairing tasks, coffee-shop focus sessions, and using motivation windows instead of rigid schedulesScheduling rest on purpose and designing home systems that protect executive function on work daysClient fit, momentum, and “ADHD inertia” in marketing and minisWeddings, overstimulation, and planning with neurodivergence in mindThe “Solve-It Grid” from Your Brain’s Not Broken to pair high-stress tasks with low-stim, calming activitiesTLDR:Build your business around when your brain actually works best. Motivation windows beat nine-to-five rules.Procrastination isn’t a moral failing. For many ADHDers it’s an adrenaline strategy that still gets the job done.Pair the hard stuff with something calming or enjoyable. Think taxes + podcast, or bookkeeping + body double.Stimulate focus on low-dopamine tasks. Coffee shops, light background noise, or a “work buddy” can help.Protect your executive function by systemizing home life on heavy work weeks. Meal help and laundry routines are productivity tools.Schedule rest like a deliverable. Capacity is finite, and recovery keeps your business sustainable.Use consultations to vibe-check client fit. When the energy is aligned, booking and follow-through get easier.Weddings can be overstimulating. Plan workflows that honor sensory needs for you and your clients.Resources:Book: Your Brain’s Not Broken by Tamara RosierFollow Andrea: TikTok, Instagram, Threads — @andreamichellephotoAndrea’s Podcast: Brilliant Minds? by Brilliant Minds Wellness (Spotify and YouTube)Coming Soon from Andrea: Downloadable guides — ADHD for Wedding Photographers and a companion guide for neurodivergent wedding clients

Episode Title: Five Tools That Keep Me From QuittingGuest: Solo episode with Jill C. SmithWe Discuss:Why photography is a great fit for creatives with ADHD — and where it can still get overwhelmingJill’s top 5 business tools that support her ADHD brainHow a missed session became the wake-up call to use a schedulerWhy she’s switching CRMs again — and what finally convinced herHow ChatGPT functions like a thought organizer and assistantThe way AfterShoot removes the dread of task initiation during busy seasonPermission to outsource things like laundry, meal prep, or bookkeeping if they’re draining your energyTLDR:This solo episode is part of Jill’s ADHD Awareness Month series, and it’s all about the tools that have helped her keep her business afloat despite her executive dysfunction. From schedulers and CRMs to AI assistants and editing software, Jill shares the five tools she leans on the most — not because they’ve “fixed” her ADHD, but because they’ve allowed her to keep showing up in her business when things get hard. If you’ve ever missed a session, avoided your inbox, or stared at a Lightroom folder for hours, you’re not alone — and these tools might just be the thing that help you keep going.Resources:HoneyBook: https://www.honeybook.comAfterShoot: https://www.aftershoot.comChatGPT: https://chat.openai.comPixieset Studio Manager: https://www.pixieset.com/studio-manager

Episode Title: Coaching Creatives with ADHD with Christi JohnsonGuest: Christi Johnson, co-owner of Stephanie & Christi Photography (Greenville, SC) and founder of The Dream Biz® LabChristi’s coaching lens for ADHD creatives: designing businesses that work with your brainThe “Joy Menu” framework (appetizers, entrees, desserts) to spark motivation on hard daysFlexible structure vs rigid systems and why freedom, novelty, and side quests matterEnergy management and flow: noticing rhythms, nervous system cues, and choosing energizing starter tasksGetting unfun work done: deadlines as a tool, body doubling and co-working, spacing deliverablesWhen to outsource and when to simplify instead of scalingThe Dream Biz® Lab: how the membership runs, what happens in calls, and who it is forThis episode centers on how Christi coaches neurodivergent creatives. We dig into practical, compassionate tools for ADHD brains: flexible structure that honors energy ebbs and flows, the Joy Menu to create momentum, and supportive tactics like deadlines and body doubling. Christi walks through how she helps clients build operations, marketing, and vision that feel joyful and sustainable, and she shares what members can expect inside The Dream Biz® Lab.Learn more about The Dream Biz® Lab and join the waitlist: christijohnsoncreative.com/labMeets every other week, rotating focus on Vision, Operations, and MarketingIncludes a private podcast and the upcoming DreamBiz Playground for flexible, dopamine-friendly action plansNext enrollment opens in January; moving to open enrollment in 2026Connect with Christi: @christijohnsoncreative on InstagramChristi’s site: christijohnsoncreative.com

Episode Title: The ADHD Brain & Running a Photography BusinessGuest: Elena S Blair, Elena S Blair Photography, Seattle, WAWe Discuss:How ADHD traits like hyperfocus, empathy, and intuition can become superpowers in creative entrepreneurshipWhy traditional work environments often stifle ADHD brains — and how self-employment offers freedom and flexibilityThe art of building systems that fit your brain instead of fighting itUsing dopamine-driven motivation to fuel creativity and productivityThe emotional side of ADHD: reframing inconsistency and distraction as strengthsHow Elena and Jill each structure their businesses to work with their natural energy cyclesTLDR:Elena and Jill share an honest, encouraging conversation about why photographers and other creatives with ADHD often thrive in entrepreneurship. They unpack the unique strengths ADHD brings to the table — from deep empathy and creative intuition to lightning-fast problem-solving — and explore how to design systems and businesses that work with your brain, not against it. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or just recognizing ADHD tendencies in yourself, this episode offers validation, laughter, and practical tools for building a business that actually feels good to run.Resources:Learn more about Elena’s education for photographers: https://elenasblair.com/freebiesFollow Elena on Instagram: @elenasblair_photographyGet on the wait list for the next round of Elena's Mastermind here: https://elenasblair.com/mastermind-waitlist (I took both levels of her Mastermind - the mindset work alone is worth the investment!)

Episode Title: Systems That Stick for Neuro-Spicy Photographers Guest: Emily Gbadamosi, Woodall Creative Co, Bay Area, CAWe Discuss:Emily’s path from counselor and vice principal to photographer and systems educatorWhy so many photographers struggle with the backend of businessHow to pick a CRM that actually fits your brain (not a “one size fits all”)Building a smoother path from inquiry to bookingHoneyBook 2.0 automations and conditional logic in actionFollow-ups that feel supportive and book more clientsWhere to automate and where to keep the human touchPost-session workflows that extend the client experienceTiming a CRM switch so it doesn’t wreck busy seasonTLDR:October is ADHD Awareness Month, and this episode is part of a special series highlighting tools and strategies that support neurodiverse photographers. My guest, Emily Gbadamosi of Woodall Creative Co, shares how she helps photographers create workflows and systems that cut overwhelm, reduce friction, and keep clients happy. Whether you’re neuro-spicy yourself or just tired of feeling scattered, you’ll walk away with practical ideas for making your business more sustainable.Resources:Emily’s site: woodallcreative.coInstagram: @woodallcreativecoFree Workflow Wellness Checklist: woodallcreative.co/podcastTools mentioned: HoneyBook, ShootProof, Pixieset, Picktime, Calendly, Flodesk, QuickBooks, Zapier, Unscripted

Episode Title: Upselling Video Without BurnoutGuest: Shayna Lloyd, Traveling Photographer & Videographer, MontanaWe Discuss:Shayna’s unexpected start as a “failed YouTube influencer” and how it shaped her story-driven approachThe difference between shooting photo-first vs. video-first and how that changes perspectiveWhy video upsells don’t have to mean more stress or tech overloadShayna’s five-step framework for successfully adding and selling videoHow to talk about video with clients in a way that feels natural and excitingPricing, objections, and why upsells are about vision, not pressureWhere video creates the most value across niches: weddings, families, and brandsTLDR:Montana-based photographer and videographer Shayna Lloyd shares how she built a thriving hybrid business by keeping things simple and client-centered. In this episode, Shayna breaks down her five keys to upselling video without adding extra stress to your workflow. Whether you’re a wedding, family, or brand photographer, you’ll learn how to market video authentically, incorporate it into your process, and make it a sustainable, profitable part of your business.Resources:Grab Shayna’s Video Upsell Starter Kit: https://devinandshay.com/starter-kitListen to The Devin and Shay Show podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7jMbKfORQ5TdDcGPxbRFaR?si=ac7e714371ff4215Connect with Shayna: Instagram – @shayna_lloydConnect with Devin + Shay: Instagram – @devin_and_shay

Episode Title: The Business of Real Estate PhotographyGuest: Clay Banks, Real Estate & Interiors Photographer, Catskills/Hudson Valley, NYWe Discuss:Clay’s path from software developer and urbex hobbyist to in-demand property photographerWhy COVID-era demand in the Catskills/Hudson Valley accelerated the nicheGear and approach: Sony a7 IV, 16–35mm + 50mm, DJI Air 2S, natural light only, Lightroom Denoise, subtle compositingComposition rules Clay lives by: tighter crops, fewer walls, mobile-first storytellingOn-site workflow: staging, prop choices, what he moves and why, ideal client presence (or not)Editing priorities: color cast fixes, distraction removal, polishing stainless, mirrors, windows, decksPricing evolution: valuing time, three-tier packages, travel, and smart add-onsTrends and opportunities: lifestyle-driven branding for brokerages, reels, and leveling up with videoClient relations: referrals over ads, B2B ease, handling difficult collaborations with gracePractical prep tips for homeowners and realtorsTLDR:Clay built a thriving, referral-only property photography business by telling the story of a space, not just documenting it.Natural light, thoughtful staging, and tight compositions are his signature.Pricing rose with demand and clarity on value; add-ons like short drone clips close easily.Brokerages want lifestyle branding, not just wide, bright rooms—video is the next lever.Quick win for clients: clean the house, especially mirrors, before the shoot.Resources:Learn more about Clay’s work: www.claybanks.infoFollow Clay on Instagram: @clay.banksCheck out Clay’s Presets: www.claybanks.info/presets

Episode Title: IPS for IntrovertsGuest: Katie Doherty, LaRousse Photo, Los Angeles, CAWe Discuss:Katie’s path from elementary teacher to weddings to a focused boudoir and maternity studioWhat introversion really looks like in a client-facing business and why IPS can fit introvertsWorking fewer clients at higher price points to protect energy and creativityA day-in-the-life: editing and reveals on non-shoot days vs. hair/makeup + 90-minute sessions on shoot daysThe client journey: ads → inquiry form → Zapier to Google Sheets → automated text via Haymarket → Calendly consultSetting expectations: session fee of $299, package starters at $995, and how transparent pricing reduces frictionRunning virtual reveals on Zoom (or in-studio) and guiding selections in Lightroom without pressureWhat clients actually buy: strong demand for digital packages, Vision Art matted print boxes for maternity, albums for boudoirSimple, profitable ops: outsourcing retouching, partnering with H/MUAs, and keeping the studio setup streamlinedStyle and specialization as real marketing: developing a cohesive editorial look so you’re not a commodityTLDR:IPS doesn’t require being “salesy.” It rewards listening, guidance, and clear structure.Fewer, higher-value bookings can prevent burnout. Katie’s averages: ~$2,000 for maternity and ~$2,500 for boudoir.Keep it simple: one light, a few sets, clean workflow, and a single great sample product to start.Lower the barrier to entry with a reasonable session fee, then help clients curate in a reveal.Use systems to save your social battery: Zapier, Google Sheets, 17hats, Haymarket, Calendly, and Loom when a call won’t fit.Resources:Freebies: https://www.introvertedphotographers.comKatie’s podcast: Introverted Photographers Club Katie on Instagram: @laroussephoto

Episode Title: Building a Human-First Business with Rachel Larson WeaverGuest: Rachel Larson Weaver, Photographer and Educator, VirginiaWe Discuss:The origin and evolution of Rachel’s long-form sessionsHow to build a business that prioritizes art and sustainabilityWhy slow, intentional work can be more magnetic than polished systemsThe pitfalls of over-automation and over-preparationShooting film as a method of artistic and business clarityThe role of human connection in marketing and client trustLetting inspiration guide your consistency rather than trendsWhy messy, heart-led business models do work—and can be highly profitableTLDR:Rachel Larson Weaver is known for her long-form, film-based family sessions that feel more like an immersive retreat than a photoshoot. In this episode, we talk about staying rooted in your artistic voice while also building a viable, profitable business. Rachel shares how she markets without shouting into the void, why she leans into film and simplicity, and how showing up as your full self—messy bits and all—is more effective than a perfect CRM. Her story is a masterclass in trusting your gut, building for connection, and redefining what it means to be a photographer in a world of AI and over-curated imagery.Resources:Learn more about Rachel and her work: https://www.rachellarsonweaver.comFollow Rachel on Instagram: @rachel.larson.weaver

Episode Title: Part Time On PurposeGuest: Lydia Fine, Apollo and Ivy Photography, Iowa City, IAWe Discuss:The decision to remain intentionally part-time as a photographerHow Lydia balances a full-time marketing career with a thriving photo businessCreative pricing strategies that support sustainability and growthThe emotional and practical side of raising pricesCRM systems and workflow efficiency for photographersHow brand voice and messaging can shape your client experienceThe misconception of oversaturation in the photography industryBuilding a business that supports your life—without burnoutTLDR:If you’ve ever felt pressure to go full-time with your photography business—or guilt for not wanting to—this episode is for you. Lydia Fine shares why staying part-time is the right fit for her life, how her 9-to-5 fuels her photography success, and why profitability is 100% possible without going all-in. We also dive deep into pricing, emotional blocks, and the power of strong systems to protect your time and energy. Bonus: Lydia geeks out on CRMs and HoneyBook updates, and you’ll want to take notes.Resources:FREE GUIDE – Get More Clients with Google Reviews: https://info.apolloandivy.com/reviewsAll of Lydia’s Free Resources for Photographers: https://www.apolloandivy.com/for-photographers/Bio:Lydia Fine is a lifestyle photographer in Iowa City, Iowa, where she creates wall-worthy photos of families, seniors, and newborns for ultra-busy people. With a marketing degree and MBA and over 22 years of experience, she blends creative vision with a deep understanding of strategy and business. Lydia also works a day job in marketing and teaches other photographers how to book more clients, streamline their workflows, and build businesses that don’t run them into the ground.When she’s not working, Lydia can be found playing pickleball, kickboxing, doing jigsaw puzzles, or attempting to solve the Wordle in one try (it’s going to happen, just you wait).

Episode Title: The Business of Birth PhotographyGuest: Rachel Utain-Evans, Rachel Utain-Evans Photography, Philadelphia, PAWe Discuss:The realities of being a birth photographer, doula, and videographer—sometimes all at onceWhy Rachel recommends doula training even for photographersHow she documents unpredictable, low-light births with minimal gearHer approach to storytelling in films using short clips and ambient audioThe emotional labor of being on-call, witnessing trauma, and maintaining mental healthHer pricing strategy and why birth photography is more demanding than weddingsHow to prepare if you’re thinking about entering this fieldWhy strong birth community networks matter and how she's mentoring othersNavigating hospitals, policies, and the OR as a supportive presenceThe difference between fear-based and informed birth choicesTLDR:If you’ve ever been curious about birth photography—or considered offering it yourself—this episode is a must-listen. Rachel Utain-Evans shares the logistics, emotional demands, technical decisions, and ethical considerations of documenting birth with compassion and professionalism. She’s photographed births in hospitals, homes, birth centers—even near-misses in ambulances. This conversation goes beyond photography—it’s about holding space, respecting boundaries, and honoring one of life’s biggest transitions.Resources:Learn more about Rachel’s work and mentoring: rachelutainevans.comFollow Rachel on Instagram: @racheluephotoPhotographer to Watch: Juliette Fradin Photography

Episode Title: The Magic in MonotonyGuest: Fiona Margo, Family Photographer & Marketing Educator, Bainbridge Island, WAWe Discuss:The power of consistent marketing (and why it beats chasing trends)How to market like a local—because that’s who’s booking youCreative ways to stay inspired without jumping ship every other weekWhy photographers need more strategy and less scrollingWhat it means to run your business like a businessTactical tips for getting into marketing "flow"Model calls that actually book clientsWhy being a “service provider” doesn’t mean sacrificing your artistryThe seven-to-ten rule for marketing messages—and how most photographers give up too soonWhy your followers aren't your buyers (and why that’s okay)The role of community, connection, and patience in a long-term marketing planTLDR: Fiona Margo shares her grounded, genius-level marketing advice for photographers who are tired of the hamster wheel. From leveraging your creative brain to setting up sustainable systems, Fiona helps photographers embrace the “boring” parts of business that actually lead to consistent bookings and long-term growth.Resources:Listen to Fiona’s podcast. Learn more about Fiona’s mentoring and offers.