EPIC – The Destination and Adventure Elopement Photographer Podcast

Welcome back to The EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass), the space where destination and adventure elopement photographers come to connect, grow, and build intentional businesses.I’m your host, Sheryl Anne, destination elopement photographer, Navy veteran, and proud mama. In this episode, we’re talking all about TikTok and why elopement photographers should not be sleeping on this platform.If you’ve ever felt unsure about TikTok, overwhelmed by content creation, or questioned whether it actually brings in bookings, this episode breaks down how TikTok works and how you can use it in a way that feels simple, intentional, and aligned with your business.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why TikTok is different from Instagram and why that mattersHow TikTok builds trust with potential clients before they even inquireWhy TikTok is now a search engine for elopement planningThe biggest mistakes photographers are making on TikTokHow your content positioning affects the type of inquiries you attractWhy you do not need to post every day to see resultsHow TikTok can lead to high-ticket destination elopement bookingsThe pros and cons of TikTok inquiriesThis episode is a real and honest look at how TikTok can support your marketing, help you connect with your dream clients, and create new opportunities for your elopement photography business.Stay tuned. Stay adventurous. Stay EPIC.Links & ResourcesFollow me on Instagram and TikTok: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcastExplore my work and education:⁠ https://sherylannephoto.com⁠For educational courses & templates: ⁠⁠⁠https://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/⁠⁠⁠Booked Not ViralUse code EPIC15 for $15 off.A self-paced TikTok course for elopement photographers who want consistent, aligned inquiries without trends or high-energy content.⁠⁠https://sherylannephoto.com/booked-not-viral-elopement-photographers/⁠

Welcome back to The EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass), the space where destination and adventure elopement photographers come to connect, grow, and build sustainable businesses.In today’s episode, I’m joined by Shayna from Hybrid Hangout. She is an elopement photographer, videographer, and educator who teaches photographers how to confidently offer both photo and video on elopement days without overwhelm.If you’ve ever felt intimidated by video, unsure about gear, worried about burnout, or confused about pricing, this conversation breaks it all down in a practical and approachable way.Shayna shares how she started in video before photography, how SEO helped grow her business, and why hybrid shooting works especially well for elopements.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Shayna built her photo and video business through YouTube and SEOWhy hybrid shooting works so well for elopement photographersCommon fears about adding video and how to overcome themA simple five-shot system for capturing strong hybrid coverageHow to shoot video without complicated gearHow to price and position hybrid photo and videoWhen to upsell versus include video in packagesHow hybrid shooting can increase incomeWhy messy action matters more than perfectionThis episode is packed with practical advice for elopement photographers who want to expand their services, serve clients more intentionally, and grow their revenue in a way that feels aligned and sustainable.Stay tuned. Stay adventurous. Stay EPIC.Links & ResourcesFollow Shayna and Hybrid Hangout:Instagram: @hybridhangoutWebsite: https://hybridhangout.com/Explore Hybrid Hub, Shayna’s education program for photographers who want to offer both photo and video on elopement days.Follow me on Instagram and TikTok: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcastExplore my work and education: https://sherylannephoto.comFor educational courses & templates: ⁠⁠https://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/⁠⁠Booked Not ViralUse code EPIC15 for $15 off.A self-paced TikTok course for elopement photographers who want consistent, aligned inquiries without trends or high-energy content.⁠https://sherylannephoto.com/booked-not-viral-elopement-photographers/⁠

Welcome back to The EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass) — the space for destination and adventure elopement photographers who want honest conversations about business and life.In this episode, I’m sharing a deeply personal look at pregnancy, postpartum, and what it’s really like navigating motherhood while running an elopement photography business. From booking clients while trying to conceive, to maternity leave, boundaries, pricing shifts, mom guilt, outsourcing, pumping on elopement days, and traveling with a baby,  this episode is rooted in honesty, flexibility, and sustainability.This isn’t about hustle or “bouncing back.” It’s about building a business that supports your life in different seasons and releasing the pressure to do it all perfectly.In this episode, you’ll hear:How I approached booking during pregnancy and postpartumWhy transparency with clients strengthened trustWhat maternity leave and returning to work really looked likeHow motherhood reshaped my boundaries, pricing, and prioritiesThe reality of mom guilt and releasing unrealistic expectationsOutsourcing, systems, and protecting your energyPumping, breastfeeding, and travel logistics as an elopement photographerIf you’re an elopement photographer navigating pregnancy, postpartum, or motherhood — this episode is for you.Stay adventurous. Stay EPIC. 🤍Links & ResourcesFollow me on Instagram and TikTok: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcastFor educational courses & templates: ⁠⁠https://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/⁠⁠Explore my work: https://sherylannephoto.comBooked Not ViralUse code EPIC15 for $15 off.A self-paced TikTok course for elopement photographers who want consistent, aligned inquiries without trends or high-energy content.https://sherylannephoto.com/booked-not-viral-elopement-photographers/

Welcome back to The EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass), the space where destination and adventure elopement photographers come to connect, grow, and talk honestly about the realities of this work.I’m your host, Sheryl Anne, destination elopement photographer, Navy veteran, and proud mama. In this episode, we’re diving into another round of Photographer Confessions, featuring real stories from elopement photographers about moments when elopements almost went wrong.These submissions highlight the unpredictable side of elopement photography, from SD card scares and transportation issues to communication breakdowns, safety concerns, and situations that could have turned into major problems. Some of these stories are funny in hindsight, others are stressful, and a few serve as important reminders of how quickly things can change in the field.Before getting into the stories, we start with a Win of the Week, celebrating the winners of the International Wedding Photographer of the Year Awards and giving shoutouts to Oli and Steph, Jane Iskra, and The Chaffins for their incredible and inspiring work.In this episode, you’ll hear:Stories of SD card scares and camera setting mistakesWhat happens when transportation fails on elopement daysHow a drone helped locate a missing proposal clientWhy communication issues can create major wedding day stressReal safety concerns photographers face while traveling aloneA reminder to trust your instincts and protect yourself as a vendorOne of the most shocking inquiry stories ever submitted to the podcastLessons learned from situations that could have ended very differentlyThis episode is a reminder that elopement photography comes with incredible experiences, but also real risks and challenges that are not always talked about openly. These stories highlight the importance of preparation, communication, boundaries, and looking out for yourself and your clients.Stay tuned. Stay adventurous. Stay EPIC.Links & ResourcesFollow me on Instagram and TikTok: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcastFor educational courses & templates: ⁠⁠https://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/⁠⁠Explore elopement work and resources: https://sherylannephoto.comDisclaimer: This episode includes real photographer confessions that reference sensitive topics, safety concerns, and difficult client situations. Listener discretion is advised.

Welcome back to The EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass), the space where destination and adventure elopement photographers come to connect, grow, and stay inspired as they build sustainable businesses.I’m your host, Sheryl Anne, destination elopement photographer, Navy veteran, and proud mama. This episode marks our very first episode of 2026, and it is a reflective and honest one.In today’s episode, I’m sharing eight lessons I learned in 2025 during my first full year running my business full time, my first year as a mom, and my first year fully stepping into civilian life after the Navy. These lessons come from real experiences navigating motherhood, travel, burnout, creativity, growth, and learning how to slow down without guilt.My hope is that this episode resonates with anyone thinking about going full time, navigating a major life transition, or learning how to build a business that supports the season of life they are in.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why you are allowed to build your business around your current season of lifeHow slowing down intentionally can lead to more sustainability and less burnoutWhy protecting your peace is essential when making business decisionsWhat bringing a baby on destination elopements taught me about identity and balanceHow stacking elopements can work when done intentionally and with boundariesWhy outsourcing was critical to protecting my time and energyHow isolating working from home can be and why community mattersWays to create structure and motivation when you work for yourselfWhy freedom and flexibility are some of the greatest rewards of this careerI also share a personal life update about photographing a Patagonia elopement for my sister and brother in law, and why that experience meant so much to me both personally and professionally.This episode is a reminder that growth does not have to be loud, fast, or exhausting. It can be intentional, season-aware, and deeply fulfilling.Stay tuned. Stay adventurous. Stay EPIC.Links & ResourcesFollow along on Instagram: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcastFor educational courses & templates: ⁠⁠https://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/⁠⁠Explore my latest elopement work: Sheryl Anne Photo

Welcome back to The EPIC Podcast, the space where destination and adventure elopement photographers come to connect, grow, and feel supported through honest conversations about business and life.I’m your host, Sheryl Anne, destination elopement photographer, Navy veteran, and proud mama. In this episode, we’re talking about something that comes up for so many photographers during slow season: comparison.When inquiries slow down, it can feel harder to stay confident, creative, and grounded. Scrolling social media can quickly turn inspiration into pressure, and other photographers can start to feel like competition instead of community.In this episode, I share five reasons comparison shows up so strongly during slow season and five practical ways you can protect your creativity, mindset, and business during quieter months. I also open up about life updates, health challenges, motherhood, and why slowing down was necessary for healing.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why slow season often triggers comparison and self-doubHow over-scrolling can quietly impact your confidence and creativityWhy brand clarity helps reduce comparisonHow chasing trends leads to burnout instead of alignmentFive intentional things to focus on instead of comparing yourself to othersWhy styled shoots, blogging, and SEO can rebuild confidenceHow improving your systems and client experience supports long-term growthWhy rest is not falling behind, but part of building a sustainable businessThis episode is a reminder that quiet seasons are not a sign of failure. They can be a time to reset, strengthen your foundation, reconnect with your creativity, or simply rest without guilt.Stay tuned. Stay adventurous. Stay EPIC.Links & ResourcesFollow along on Instagram: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcastExplore my latest elopement work: Sheryl Anne PhotoFor educational courses & templates: ⁠⁠https://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/⁠⁠

Welcome back to The EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass), the space where destination and adventure elopement photographers come to connect, grow, and feel inspired through real conversations with industry leaders.I’m your host, Sheryl Anne, destination elopement photographer, Navy veteran, and proud mama. In this episode, I’m joined by Lucy Schultz, the founder of the Elopement Legend Awards, the first and only international award competition created specifically for elopement photographers.Lucy launched the Elopement Legend Awards in 2023 after noticing a major gap in the industry. While wedding photographers had countless ways to gain recognition, elopement photographers lacked a dedicated platform to showcase authentic storytelling, emotion, and creativity. Her mission was simple but powerful: to celebrate every kind of love story, across all backgrounds, identities, and cultures.With a career in photography dating back to 2009 and experience judging international competitions, Lucy has built an award system that honors skill, storytelling, and inclusivity over perfection.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Lucy turned a moment of doubt into the creation of the Elopement Legend AwardsWhy the awards focus on storytelling, emotion, creativity, and personality rather than just pretty photosHow elopement photographers can capture real connection and authentic emotionThe truth about technical perfection versus storytelling when entering competitionsA behind-the-scenes look at how images are judged and why fairness and diversity matterWhy inclusivity and representation are non-negotiable in the awards processHow the community behind the Legend Awards is redefining collaboration over competitionThe meaning behind the word “Legend” and what it represents for elopement photographers everywhereStay tuned. Stay adventurous. Stay EPIC.Links & ResourcesFollow Lucy Schultz and the Elopement Legend Awards:Website: elopementphotographyawards.comInstagram: @elopementphotographyawardsFacebook Group: Elopement Photography Legends CommunityLucy’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucyschultzphotography/

Welcome back to The EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass), the space where destination and adventure elopement photographers come to connect, grow, and feel inspired through real conversations with industry pros.I’m your host, Sheryl Anne, destination elopement photographer, Navy veteran, and proud mama. In this episode, I chat with Susan Talantes of Jireh Artistry, one of Northern California’s top elopement hair and makeup artists serving the Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and Big Sur regions.With more than 17 years of experience, multiple publications, and a signature style rooted in elevated, natural bridal beauty, Susan creates a calm, spa-like experience for her brides while helping them look and feel radiant on their adventure elopement day.We talk about her creative journey, how she handles 2 a.m. start times, what inspired her to start offering behind-the-scenes content creation, and the lessons she’s learned working in some of California’s most breathtaking locations.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Susan transitioned from large traditional weddings to intimate elopementsThe biggest differences between elopement and wedding-day hair and makeupTips for keeping your bridal look camera-ready in outdoor conditionsWhat it’s like managing early morning prep and full-day adventure schedulesWhy Susan offers content creation as part of her services and how it benefits her couplesAdvice for new hair and makeup artists entering the elopement industryWhat “staying EPIC” means to her and how she brings excellence and care to every clientStay tuned. Stay adventurous. Stay EPIC.Links & ResourcesFollow Susan on Instagram: @jirehartistryTikTok: @jirehartistrybridalExplore her work: jirehartistry.comFollow along on Instagram: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcastFor educational courses & templates: ⁠https://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/⁠Explore my latest elopement work: Sheryl Anne Photo

Welcome back to The EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass), the space where destination and adventure elopement photographers come to connect, get inspired, and share real stories from behind the lens.I’m your host, Sheryl Anne, destination elopement photographer, Navy veteran, and proud mama. This week, we’re getting spooky with our Halloween Special: Photographer Horror Stories. From creepy encounters to chaotic wedding-day disasters and a few heartwarming “ghost” moments, these submissions from the elopement photography community will have you laughing, cringing, and maybe checking under your editing desk.Before we dive into the stories, let’s celebrate our Win of the Week. Huge congrats to Payton of Payton Rademacher Photography for being featured in Adventure Wed Magazine! Your work is stunning, your creativity shines, and this feature is so well-deserved.Life update: It’s Halloween week, and you know we go all out around here. My daughter Theo is dressing up as Little Red Riding Hood and a bumblebee this year, with our huskies playing Grandma Wolves and my husband and I as beekeepers. Needless to say, the family costume game is strong this season.In this episode, you’ll hear:Real elopement horror stories from photographers across the communityCreepy encounters, chaotic wedding-day mishaps, and hilarious behind-the-scenes momentsHeartfelt stories that remind us of the spiritual side of photography and intuitionMy personal hotel horror story that proves why I’ll always “choose the bear”Updates from past “Photographer Confessions” stories (including the infamous divorce chat)So grab your coffee (or your candy), turn down the lights, and enjoy this Halloween edition of The EPIC Podcast.Stay safe. Stay spooky. Stay EPIC.Links & ResourcesFollow along on Instagram: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcast⁠https://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/⁠Explore my latest elopement work: Sheryl Anne Photo

Welcome back to The EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass), the space where destination and adventure elopement photographers come to get inspired, learn, and connect through real conversations.I’m your host, Sheryl Anne — destination elopement photographer, Navy veteran, and proud mama. Today’s episode is going to be a wild one because we’re diving into photographer hot takes — bold, funny, and sometimes controversial opinions straight from the elopement photography community. From pricing debates and drone drama to overused poses and industry clichés, we’re spilling the tea (with love).Before we get into the submissions, let’s celebrate our Win of the Week. This one goes to my good friend Christina of Christina Perhac Photo, who just hit six figures in her elopement photography business! Watching her growth since our mastermind days has been incredible, and I couldn’t be prouder.Life update: I’m wrapping up my final U.S.-based elopement of the year in the Redwoods before heading to Patagonia in December for my last destination shoot. I’ll be taking a well-deserved break from November to February to spend time with family and celebrate the holidays, wedding anniversary, Theo’s birthday, Christmas, and New Year’s all in one stretch!In this episode, you’ll hear: The spiciest “hot takes” from elopement photographers across the communityHonest thoughts on pricing, originality, and social media trendsMy take on drone shots, under-the-veil photos, and “free travel” wedding offersThe truth about marketing, positioning, and why dream clients aren’t just about locationReal talk about community support, creative burnout, and staying authentic in a crowded spaceStay you. Stay true. Stay EPIC.Links & ResourcesFollow along on Instagram: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcast⁠https://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/⁠Explore my latest elopement work: Sheryl Anne Photo

Welcome back to The EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass), the go-to podcast for destination and adventure elopement photographers who want to grow, connect, and stay inspired.I’m your host, Sheryl Anne, destination elopement photographer, Navy veteran, and proud mama. In today’s episode, we’re diving into mentorship and real business talk. I’m sharing the top three things you should focus on if you want to scale your elopement photography business, plus a bonus tip that completely changed mine.If you’ve ever wondered how to book more destination elopements, attract your dream clients, and stop chasing shiny objects, this episode is for you.Before we get into it, our Win of the Week goes to Marcus and Hannah of Marcus Hannenberg Photography and Hannah Lee Films, who just booked an elopement in New Zealand. Congratulations to this talented photo and video duo for continuing to inspire the elopement community.In this episode, you’ll learn:The top three investments that will help you grow your elopement photography businessWhy education is the most valuable step when you’re starting outHow to use styled shoots and retreats to build a portfolio that attracts your ideal elopement clientsWhen to run ads (and when not to) so you don’t waste money too earlyThe long-term power of SEO for consistent destination elopement inquiriesReal behind-the-scenes stories from recent Big Sur and Redwoods elopementsHow to work smarter, not harder, as a destination elopement photographerYou’ll also hear my latest life updates — from photographing four elopements back-to-back to thoughtful client moments that made the long days worth it.Stay tuned. Stay adventurous. Stay EPIC.Links & ResourcesFollow along on Instagram: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcast⁠https://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/⁠Explore my latest elopement work: Sheryl Anne Photo

Welcome back to The EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass), the space where destination and adventure elopement photographers come to feel inspired, connected, and supported.I’m your host, Sheryl Anne, a destination and adventure elopement photographer, Navy veteran, and proud mama. In this episode, we’re doing something a little different and a lot of fun: Photographer Confessions.I asked photographers in the elopement community to share their funniest, craziest, and most heartfelt confessions, and they delivered. From spooky Airbnb encounters to near-disaster wedding days, this episode is full of laughs, lessons, and a few goosebumps.Before diving in, I share our Win of the Week, celebrating Kasey Jo of Elope Academy on her 50th retreat milestone, and a quick life update about helping one of my couples plan their dream Patagonia elopement.In this episode, you’ll hear:Real confessions from elopement photographers and videographers around the worldUnforgettable stories of weather challenges, emotional moments, and behind-the-scenes chaosThe hilarious, heartfelt, and sometimes shocking moments that happen when documenting love storiesMy own photographer confession about my first five-figure elopement gone unexpectedly wrongA meaningful reflection on faith, inclusivity, and kindness in the elopement photography communityThis episode reminds us that even in the world of breathtaking landscapes and golden hours, we all share unfiltered, human moments that connect us.Stay tuned. Stay inspired. Stay EPIC..Links & ResourcesFollow along on Instagram: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcasthttps://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/

Welcome back to the EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass), the go-to place where destination and adventure elopement photographers come to get inspired, connect, and keep learning new tips to grow their elopement photography business.I’m your host, Sheryl Anne, a destination elopement photographer, Navy veteran, proud mama, and adventure seeker passionate about capturing epic love stories in breathtaking locations. In our very first episode, I shared the heart behind why I started this podcast. Today’s episode digs deeper into my personal story and the path that led me into the world of adventure elopement photography.We recorded this episode on location at Mount Rainier National Park, a meaningful spot where I photographed my very first adventure elopement and fell in love with destination wedding photography. Joining me on this windy hike is my best friend and Navy sister, Mikayla, who asks all the questions you’d probably want to know.In this episode, you’ll hear:How my Filipino roots and family culture shaped my lifelong love for photographyMy transition from Navy ROTC scholarship recipient to a surface warfare officer, balancing military life with a photography businessThe pivotal adventure elopement at Mount Rainier National Park that defined my creative callingOvercoming cultural pressures as a first-generation Filipino-American pursuing a creative career pathFacing and overcoming professional challenges including burnout, loss, and rebuilding my business What life looks like now as a thriving full-time destination photographer, mom, and adventure chaserReminder: Your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Whether you are juggling a full-time job, navigating family expectations, or starting over after setbacks, YOU are exactly where you need to be.Stay tuned. Stay inspired. Stay EPIC.Links & ResourcesFollow along on Instagram: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcasthttps://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/Submit your elopement stories, confessions, or wild moments: Photographer Confessions

Welcome to the very first episode of the EPIC Podcast (Elopement Photographer Inspiration Compass)—a podcast created specifically for destination and adventure elopement photographers who crave community, inspiration, and real conversations about the highs and lows of this career. I’m your host, Sheryl Anne—a destination elopement photographer, adventure seeker, Navy veteran, and new mom learning how to balance life, travel, and a photography business built on capturing love stories around the world.This podcast is for you if you’re already an elopement photographer or if you’re dreaming about how to become an elopement photographer. Each week, I’ll bring you behind-the-scenes stories, honest conversations, and inspiration from elopement photographers & vendors capturing adventurous elopements in epic destinations.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why I created a podcast just for destination & adventure elopement photographersThe meaning behind “EPIC” and how it’s designed to help you find your True NorthMy journey from Navy officer to full-time adventure elopement photographer.What you can expect from future episodes—real stories, photographer confessions, interviews with leading elopement photographers & vendors, and tips to help you grow your business without burning out.As we wrap up this first episode, my hope is that you walk away feeling a little less alone, a lot more inspired, and supported on your journey. This is just the beginning—and I can’t wait to share what’s ahead with you.Stay tuned. Stay inspired. Stay EPIC.Links & ResourcesFollow along on Instagram: @sherylannephoto and @epicphotopodcasthttps://sherylannephoto.com/epic-photographers/Submit your elopement stories, confessions, or wild moments : Photographer ConfessionsCheck out the Elopement Legend Awards (apply for next round to get featured + an SEO-friendly backlink!)

Welcome to EPIC Podcast—your compass for elopement photography inspiration. Hosted by Sheryl Anne Acuna, this show inspires, connects, and guides adventure-loving photographers.Each week, you’ll hear real stories, practical tips, and behind-the-scenes insights to help you grow your business and stay true to your path.Stay tuned. Stay inspired. Stay EPIC.https://sherylannephoto.com/