Vision Boarding & Goal Setting for 2026 The start of a new year is full of possibility — but it can also feel overwhelming. In this episode of the Luxe & Legacy Podcast, we’re talking about how to approach goal setting and vision boarding for 2026 with clarity, focus, and intention. Marie shares why narrowing your focus to one or two meaningful goals can create more momentum than chasing every trend in the industry. We talk about distraction, doing less on purpose, and building on what’s already working in your business. Amber then breaks down vision boarding in a way that goes far beyond a wishlist. We explore how to create vision boards based on how you want to feel, why your subconscious and nervous system play a role in what you allow yourself to receive, and how imagery can support aligned action and growth. This episode blends practical strategy with mindset work to help you create real progress this year — without burnout. In this episode, we cover: How to simplify your goals without losing momentum Why focus is essential for sustainable growth The difference between a wishlist and an aligned vision board Using emotion and imagery to support your subconscious How to pair vision with action so goals actually happen If you’re craving a more grounded, intentional way to grow in 2026, this episode will help you reset and refocus.   Connect Follow us on Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/light_livin_photography/ https://www.instagram.com/marie.elizabeth.photo/   Website: Amber: https://lightlivinphotography.com/  Marie: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/      

The Art of Saying No: Creating Clear Boundaries as You Step Into 2026 In this episode of the Luxe and Legacy Podcast, Amber and Marie share how setting clear boundaries can transform your photography business, especially as you step into a new year. They break down why boundaries are essential for luxury photographers, how they signal professionalism, and how they help attract aligned, high end clients. This conversation covers practical boundary setting for photographers, including communication expectations, weekday vs weekend sessions, pricing confidence, client leadership, and navigating boundaries with friends and family. Amber also shares honest insight into balancing motherhood and business while building a sustainable photography career. If you’re a photographer looking to raise your prices, attract luxury clients, avoid burnout, and create better work life balance in 2026, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and actionable strategies to move forward. Connect Follow us on Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/light_livin_photography/ https://www.instagram.com/marie.elizabeth.photo/   Website: Amber: https://lightlivinphotography.com/  Marie: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/      

Episode Overview Amber and Marie sit down with SEO expert Melissa Arlena to break down SEO in a simple, practical way. If you want to get found on Google, attract aligned luxury clients, and stop relying only on Instagram, this episode will give you clear next steps you can implement during slow season and beyond. In This Episode Why SEO matters for luxury brands and long term lead generation• Where to start if SEO feels overwhelming• Blogging ideas that actually bring in inquiries• Common keyword mistakes photographers make• How to target locations and affluent areas strategically• Simple image optimization and alt text tips• Using AI as a support tool without losing your voice Work with Melissa Learn more at https://www.instagram.com/pictureperfectrankings/ https://www.instagram.com/melissaarlena/ https://pictureperfectrankings.com/the-blogging-club/ Use code LUXELEGACY for 50% off your first month in the Blogging Club. Connect Follow us on Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/light_livin_photography/ https://www.instagram.com/marie.elizabeth.photo/   Website: Amber: https://lightlivinphotography.com/  Marie: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/  

In this episode, Amber and Marie break down why some images feel instantly high-end while others unintentionally read budget. They explore the visual cues that define luxury photography and share the intentional choices that elevate a portfolio. From lighting and color to posing, wardrobe, and curation, you will learn how to audit your work through the lens of The Vogue Test and shape a portfolio that attracts premium clients. What We Cover The core elements that create luxury imagery Why intentional lighting is the strongest indicator of a high end brand How consistency in edit, color, and mood builds trust with premium clients The importance of natural skin tones, movement, and connection How confident direction elevates posing and client experience Why wardrobe choices dramatically affect perceived value Common visual mistakes that quietly read budget Different luxury aesthetics and what makes each of them elevated How to use The Vogue Test to refine your portfolio A simple process to curate a more cohesive, luxury aligned body of work Key Takeaways Luxury is built on intention and clarity Beautiful light, clean color, and refined posing elevate even simple locations Strong curation is one of the fastest ways to transform your portfolio Removing budget cues immediately raises perceived value A luxury portfolio is tight, cohesive, and aligned with your artistic vision If you are ready to refine your portfolio and create a more elevated brand presence, stay tuned for upcoming resources.Share this episode with a photographer who is ready to move into a luxury lane Follow us on Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/light_livin_photography/ https://www.instagram.com/marie.elizabeth.photo/   Website: Amber: https://lightlivinphotography.com/  Marie: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/ The Vogue Test Worksheet

What We Cover in This Episode ✨ How to Use ChatGPT Without Losing Your Voice Why ChatGPT only works well after you’ve built a clear brand foundation(ideal client, tone, values, purpose, mission) The danger of generic AI output — and how to avoid “copy-paste photographer internet voice” How Amber created a custom ChatGPT trained on her messaging Using AI to repurpose one strong message into: IG captions + hooks Email newsletters Pinterest descriptions Blog outlines Sales page copy How ChatGPT can deepen connection while maintaining authenticity Why AI should amplify your voice — not replace it ✨ AI for Editing: Our Experience With Imagine AI Marie’s workflow: How Imagine edits her galleries in 15–20 minutes Why she barely has to tweak anything anymore Creating separate profiles (studio, outdoor, film stock) The “secret sauce”: continuously feeding Imagine your refined edits so it learns your style Amber’s experience: Why Imagine didn’t work for her in the past — and what changed The learning curve and how it handles tone curves + background masks Where it excels and where she still fine-tunes things Why it’s saving her after a huge tech issue this month Key takeaway:Imagine can drastically speed up your editing workflow and improve consistency — especially once your profile has been fully trained. ✨ Voto: AI Retouching That Saves HOURS Marie’s go-to tools for newborn & family sessions: Infant acne removal Skin evening Double-chin reduction Hair frizz + flyaway removal Eye catchlights Amber’s approach: Why she customizes a new “preset” for each client Her favorite features: under-eye circle reduction, wrinkle softening, clothing de-wrinkle What she uses sparingly to keep edits natural How Voto saved a wind-blown lavender farm session Why it’s the most user-friendly AI tool she’s tried The biggest perk:Magazine-quality refinements in minutes — without outsourcing a single image. ✨ The Future of AI for Photographers AI tools are evolving monthly — and the industry is moving fast.Marie & Amber share why learning these tools now gives you more freedom, more creative energy, and more time to deliver meaningful, elevated work. Links & Resources ✨ Courses & Black Friday Sales Marie’s Courses — $200 off each: The Posing Course The Artwork Course The Client Experience Course Amber’s Black Friday Exclusive Bundle:Includes: Light Livin Transformation Course Playful Posing Course Style Guide Contract Templates ✨ Resources Imagen AI Evoto   Connect With Us Instagram: Amber: @light_livin_photographyMarie: @marie.elizabeth.photo  Website: Amber: https://lightlivinphotography.com/  Marie: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/   Thanks for Listening! Here’s to using AI with intention, elevating your creative workflow, and building a photography business you love. See you next week, friends!

In this episode, Amber and Marie talk openly about burnout and how to rebuild margin, creativity, and joy in your photography business. You will learn: Why burnout shows up even in successful seasons How raising your prices creates space for rest and creativity Amber’s story about stepping away from an overpacked calendar Why weekday sessions can transform your schedule The power of planning one creative shot per session Why styled shoots reignite your artistry Simple habits that protect your energy Amber and Marie also begin exploring how AI can support photographers with marketing materials, content planning, and workflow systems. Stay tuned for next week’s episode where they walk through the AI editing tools they have tested and what actually helps reduce burnout in the post processing phase. Grab the freebies: Download one of Amber’s free guides in the show notes to join her list and get exclusive Black Friday pricing on Light Livin Transformation, Playful Posing, and her templates. Download one of Marie’s freebies to join her list for updates on her photography education and her own Black Friday offers. Connect with Us Instagram: Amber: @light_livin_photographyMarie: @marie.elizabeth.photo  Website: Amber: https://lightlivinphotography.com/  Marie: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/  

This week, Amber and Marie are joined by Stacy Musgrave, a mindset and relationship coach who helps women align with abundance, purpose, and ease in both life and business. In this heart-opening conversation, the trio explores what manifestation and abundance energy really mean — in practical, grounded ways that photographers and creatives can use every day. If you’ve ever felt resistance around pricing, comparison, or self-worth, this episode will help you understand how your thoughts shape your results — and how to shift from scarcity into flow and confidence. Whether you’re new to mindset work or you’ve been curious about manifestation, this conversation is full of simple, actionable ways to reframe your thoughts and attract more of what you truly want. In this episode, we talk about: What manifestation and abundance energy actually are (without the “woo”) Stacy’s journey from teaching and photography to mindset coaching How your thoughts directly shape your energy and actions The signs you’re operating from scarcity vs. abundance The science behind manifestation — and how your brain helps create results Practical steps to manifest goals (no fluff, just focus and belief) How to rewrite limiting money stories and reframe pricing guilt Using affirmations to rewire your mindset The connection between mindset, energy, and sustainable business growth Why abundance begins with clarity, awareness, and daily mindset practices Journaling & Reflection Prompts “I want ________, but…” — Write out every reason your brain gives you that you can’t have it. Then reframe each as an and statement that opens new possibility. “What’s my money story?” — Explore how your family, culture, or past experiences shaped your beliefs about money and worth. “What would it look and feel like if I already had what I desire?” — Write it in the present tense, as if it’s already yours. Resources Mentioned 📚 You Are a Badass & You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero🌿 Learn more about Stacy’s work at stacymusgrave.com and on Instagram at @stacymusgrave Connect with Us Instagram: Amber: @light_livin_photographyMarie: @marie.elizabeth.photo  Website: Amber: https://lightlivinphotography.com/  Marie: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/   If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend or fellow creative who could use a mindset reset — and don’t forget to leave a review to help others find the show.

In this week’s episode, Amber and Marie dive deep into one of their favorite topics — posing families with confidence. Whether you’re photographing toddlers with endless energy, shy little ones, or expectant mothers, today’s episode will help you find your flow and create connection-driven imagery that feels effortless and alive. You’ll hear how both photographers approach posing — from reading children’s energy and setting expectations with parents, to layering prompts, building posing “chains,” and knowing when to step back and let magic unfold naturally. This conversation is packed with actionable tips and mindset shifts to help you guide families confidently, capture authentic emotion, and elevate your sessions with artistry and heart. In this episode, we talk about: Understanding posing flow with families (and why linear posing doesn’t work with toddlers!) How to adapt your energy and approach to match each child’s personality The importance of setting expectations and taking pressure off parents Building posing “chains” that keep energy moving and connection natural Using direction, light, and composition to create variety within a single pose Communication, reassurance, and energy: what to say (and not say) during sessions How music can shift the tone and emotion of a session Favorite family, newborn, and maternity poses that inspire authentic connection What to do when a session isn’t going as planned Posing mindset: guiding through connection instead of chasing perfection Listener Q&A Highlights Handling sessions with multiple young kids and high energy What to do when your usual tricks don’t work How to reset when things feel chaotic or unplanned Featured Courses Amber’s Course: Playful Posing — Learn to photograph families and maternity sessions in a fun, candid, and elevated way with prompts and posing flows that create authentic connection. Marie’s Course: The Art of Motherhood — Go behind the scenes in real newborn, maternity, and family sessions to master natural, flattering, connection-filled posing. These courses beautifully complement each other and are the perfect next step if you loved this episode. Connect with Us Follow along for more behind-the-scenes, education, and creative inspiration:✨ Amber: @light_livin_photography✨ Marie: @marieelizabethphotography

In this episode, Amber of Light Livin Photography and Marie of Marie Elizabeth Photography get honest about comparison, imposter syndrome, and fear-based pricing. If you’ve ever scrolled and felt smaller, second-guessed your rates, or wondered if there’s room for you—this conversation will help you step back into alignment, abundance, and creative confidence. We’ll cover: How to shift from comparison to creation (and why styled shoots help) Curating your social feed with intention—muting, posting without scrolling, and seeking true inspiration The expander mindset: turning others’ success into evidence for your own Moving from scarcity to abundance in energy, pricing, and marketing Community over competition: befriending local photographers and building support Practical resets for imposter syndrome: proof folders, reframes, and small courageous actions Journal Prompts from the Episode What does the most abundant version of me believe about her art, her worth, and her clients? Where am I still playing small because of comparison or fear? How would my energy, my marketing, and my pricing shift if I embodied that abundant version of myself today? Resources & Links Mentioned Amber’s Education – Light Livin Transformation Course (natural light shooting + editing): https://lightlivinphotography.com/education-page Marie’s Education – The Luxury Client Journey: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/the-luxury-client-journey Aligned Marketing Method Waitlist: https://proud-bamboo-728.myflodesk.com/ruq5vletnb Style Guide Template: https://lightlivinphotography.com/style-guide HoneyBook CRM: http://share.honeybook.com/marie85246 Connect with Us Amber – Light Livin PhotographyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/light_livin_photography/Website & Education: https://lightlivinphotography.com/education-page Marie – Marie Elizabeth PhotographyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/marie.elizabeth.photo/Mentoring: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/photography-mentoring Affiliate Disclosure:Some links may be affiliate links. If you purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only share tools and resources we genuinely use and love.

In this episode, Amber of Light Livin Photography and Marie of Marie Elizabeth Photography open their camera bags and share the tools that shape their fine art, luminous imagery—plus the small details that make sessions feel effortless and elevated. This isn’t about chasing every new release. It’s about intention: choosing gear that serves your vision and simplifies your workflow. We’ll cover: The camera bodies and lenses we trust for that soft, painterly, light-filled aesthetic (Amber uses the Sony a7 IV; favorite lenses include the 85mm 1.4 GM, 50mm 1.2 GM, and 35mm 1.4 GM) How Marie blends digital and film for a seamless hybrid workflow Why one excellent lens can transform your portfolio more than constant upgrades Lighting choices that keep skin tones luminous and colors true Session-day extras that elevate the experience—think styling pieces, step stools, diffusers, and toddler-friendly treats Simple storage you can trust on shoot day (Amber’s go-to: SanDisk 128GB cards) By the end, you’ll see that the best gear isn’t about quantity—it’s about alignment. The right tools help you create with confidence and ease. Resources & Links Mentioned Camera Body: Sony a7 IV Lenses: Sony 85mm 1.4 GM Sony 50mm 1.2 GM Sony 35mm 1.4 GM Memory Cards: SanDisk 128GB Courses: Amber’s Light Livin Transformation Course (shooting + editing in natural light): https://lightlivinphotography.com/lltcourse Marie’s Luxury Client Journey: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/the-luxury-client-journey Style Guide Template: https://lightlivinphotography.com/style-guide HoneyBook CRM: http://share.honeybook.com/marie85246 Connect with Us Amber – Light Livin PhotographyInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/light_livin_photography/Education | https://lightlivinphotography.com/education-page Marie – Marie Elizabeth PhotographyInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/marie.elizabeth.photo/Mentoring | https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/photography-mentoring   Affiliate Disclosure:This episode includes affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, Amber earns from qualifying purchases. We only share tools we genuinely use and love.

In this episode, Amber of Light Livin Photography and Marie of Marie Elizabeth Photography open up about what really happens after you raise your prices—and inquiries suddenly slow down. If you’ve ever taken that bold leap toward sustainability and alignment, only to feel fear creep in when your inbox goes quiet, this conversation will remind you: you’re not alone, and this season has purpose. You’ll hear both of our stories—what we learned through our own “quiet seasons,” how we prepared for growth, and the practical shifts that helped us build more aligned, long-term success. We’ll cover: What to expect emotionally and financially after a price increase The mindset work that helps you embrace a slower season with confidence How to refine your portfolio and website to attract your new ideal clients Blogging and SEO strategies that move the needle during slow months Using styled sessions to elevate your brand and stay creatively inspired Strengthening client relationships and nurturing your existing audience Investing in education and streamlining systems for your next level of growth By the end, you’ll see how this in-between season isn’t a setback—it’s a sacred space for refining your brand, strengthening your foundations, and calling in the clients who truly value your work. Get the free Instagram Growth Guide here! Connect with Us Amber – Light Livin Photography: Instagram | Website Marie – Marie Elizabeth Photography: Instagram | Website

In this episode, Marie of Marie Elizabeth Photography and Amber of Light Livin Photography walk you through every step of the luxury client journey—from that very first impression to the moment your clients hold their heirloom artwork in their hands. This isn’t about volume photography. It’s about crafting an intentional, elevated experience that makes clients feel seen, valued, and deeply cared for at every stage. We’ll cover: How your website and social media set the tone for a luxury experience Inquiry forms that attract and qualify aligned clients Automating touchpoints without losing warmth or personalization The value of consultation calls and clear communication Client styling, wardrobe guidance, and preparation that elevates the session Session-day presence and how small details make a lasting impact Turning digital files into tangible heirlooms that preserve legacy By the end, you’ll see how every detail—large and small—can transform your client experience into something unforgettable. Resources & Links Mentioned The Luxury Client Journey Course (launching Sept 29): https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/the-luxury-client-journey  Aligned Marketing Method Waitlist (launching Oct 1): Join the Waitlist Style Guide Template: lightlivinphotography.com/style-guide HoneyBook CRM: share.honeybook.com/marie85246 Connect with Amber – Light Livin Photography Instagram Website Connect with Marie – Marie Elizabeth Photography Instagram Website Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links above may be affiliate links. This means we may receive a small commission if you choose to purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. We only share tools and resources we genuinely use and love, and your support helps us continue creating valuable content.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Amber’s nine Instagram strategies for booking luxury clients, including curation, behind-the-scenes storytelling, carousel formulas, and creating “saveable” content. Why captions and covers matter just as much as your imagery, and how to write words that connect with emotion. Marie’s SEO and blogging roadmap—how to use keyword research to attract clients who are already searching for what you offer. Practical tools for keyword research, including Ubersuggest. How to repurpose one blog post across Instagram, email, Pinterest, and more. Why styled shoots are the foundation of a strong brand—and how they fuel both creativity and marketing strategy. Outsourcing tips: how hiring a VA through The Virtual Savvy or similar platforms can free up your energy for the work you love. Using ChatGPT as a brainstorming tool for styled shoot concepts and blog outlines. Action Step for This Week: Plan one styled shoot that reflects your dream client’s aesthetic. From that single session, create: One reel One carousel post Multiple Instagram stories One blog post Repurpose with intention and let your marketing start compounding over time. Connect with the Hosts We’d love to connect with you and continue the conversation: Amber Courtney — Light Livin Photography Website: https://lightlivinphotography.com/education-page Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/light_livin_photography/ Marie Elizabeth — Marie Elizabeth Photography Website: https://marie-elizabethphotography.com/photography-mentoring Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marie.elizabeth.photo/

In this first episode of Luxe & Legacy, hosts Amber Courtney and Marie Elizabeth introduce the four pillars of building a thriving luxury photography brand—brand identity, messaging, portfolio, and energy. Blending strategy with heartfelt insight, they share how aligning these elements can help you attract dream clients, elevate your presence, and create a business that feels as meaningful as the art you make.