Episode Title: The Human Algorithm: Networking as a Photographer with Tiffany Crenshaw
Guest: Tiffany Crenshaw, Animal House Photography, North Alabama
We Discuss:
Why Tiffany calls networking “the human algorithm” and why it still beats chasing social media trends
How 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 dates
The “client adjacent” strategy: building relationships with doulas, small business owners, and other connector people
How 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 happens
What actually works at booths and vendor events: samples, albums, wall art, and making your setup stop traffic
Using QR codes and email list tags to track where leads come from and follow up intentionally
Getting creative with in person visibility: iPhone photo classes, beginner camera workshops, pop ups, and client events
How Tiffany thinks about quarterly goals for in person networking and how she audits events before committing
Real 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 work
TLDR:
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: @TiffanyCrenshawEdu
See Tiffany’s photography work: Animal House Photography
Tiffany’s group coaching program: Booked and Balanced (starts January 8)
Episode Title: How I Built This with Rachel Larsen Weaver
Guest: Rachel Larsen Weaver, Family Photographer (Long-Form Sessions), Washington, DC area
We Discuss:
Rachel’s early career in restaurants and teaching and how those skills translated into photography
Starting photography through blogging and realizing “documenting” is different than being hired to lead and create images
Building a business without a template and why that actually helped her develop a distinct voice
The 2019 educational turning point that clarified her creative direction
Why mini sessions flopped for her and how that failure pointed her toward long-form sessions instead
How long-form sessions took off and became a defining offer in her business
Navigating mentorship, including a harmful experience that shaped her commitment to inclusive, affirming work
Choosing 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 experience
Why she shoots almost exclusively on film now, and how that supports her workflow and profitability
Hiring an assistant and how that changed her capacity, consistency, and creative energy
The “loving gaze” concept and how she trains her eye and heart to see people with depth and dignity
Lightning round topics: systems, film preferences, business decisions, time freedom vs financial freedom
TLDR:
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 Shapiro
Guest: Alan Shapiro, Food, Portrait & Macro Photographer, New York
We Discuss:
Alan’s origin story from lifelong storyteller to advertising executive to full-time photographer
How burnout in a high-pressure creative career led him back to joy through daily photography
The role of storytelling, transparency, and consistency in building visibility and trust
Why his most impactful opportunities didn’t come from SEO or email lists, but from showing up in real communities
The power of documenting what you care about before anyone is paying you
Working with agencies vs direct clients and how discovery actually happens in 2025
Pricing with flexibility and integrity instead of rigid formulas
Why underpricing is almost universal and how Alan navigates it in practice
The long-term value of relationships over short-term ROI
Bartering, community support, and “Main Street” marketing as legitimate business strategies
Imposter syndrome, perfection paralysis, and embracing “perfectly imperfect” work
Choosing variety over specialization and the tradeoffs that come with that decision
Why photographers need to stop waiting until they feel “ready” to put work into the world
Teaching, mentoring, and staying curious as a way to keep growing creatively and professionally
TLDR:
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 Lueck
Guest: Becca Lueck, Becca Jean Photography
We Discuss:
How Becca got started in photography and what her early business looked like
The decisions that shaped her growth and the ones she would do differently
How her brand and offers evolved over time
The behind the scenes systems and boundaries that support her work today
What sustainability actually looks like at this stage of her business
Advice Becca would give photographers building their own version of success
TLDR:
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 Peschong
Guest: Maddie Peschong, Maddie Peschong Photography & Co-Founder of White Space Studio, Sioux Falls, SD
We Discuss:
How Maddie transitioned from corporate marketing to full-time photography
The early mistakes that shaped her business model and the turning points that made it thrive
Building community and collaboration through White Space Studio, her shared studio concept
How systems and boundaries became the backbone of her business growth
Creating educational offers and coaching programs that serve both new and established photographers
The mindset shifts that allowed her to scale without burnout
Why Maddie believes every photographer should think like a CEO, not just a creative
TLDR:
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.com
Follow Maddie on Instagram: @maddiepeschong
Explore White Space Studio: https://whitespacesiouxfalls.com
Episode Title: Sales Psychology with Helena Wong
Guest: Helena Wong, Helena Wong Photography, San Francisco Bay Area
We 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 business
The real way to build a client avatar that actually helps you book aligned clients
How to understand buyer behavior and money stories in different demographics
Marketing choices that prime your clients to see themselves in your work
The psychology behind anchoring numbers, price presentation, and custom proposals
How to guide a sales call without talking the whole time
Why your brand needs three defining words and how this shapes what you post
What it really looks like to raise your prices and move into a new market
How to get clients saying yes long before you ever talk about pricing
Mindset and emotional resilience when you’re transitioning to a new level in business
Why showing your actual personality is the non negotiable piece that makes sales easier
TLDR:
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/education
Follow Helena on Instagram: @helenawongphotography
Listen 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 built
How 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 formatting
The “leaks” that quietly drain your income, like misaligned branding, weak follow-up, or lack of client nurturing
How to audit your funnel before Black Friday to make sure you’re ready for new bookings
The importance of fast response times, current testimonials, and staying visible locally
Why repeat clients are your most valuable asset — and how to retain them
How to balance new client attraction with retention in a changing market
TLDR:
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 Service
Guest: Rhea Whitney, Rhea Whitney Photography & The Photo Bomb Academy
We Discuss:
Why photographers often fear “selling” — and how to reframe it as service, not pressure
The 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 clients
Why aligned clients pay more, refer more, and make you love your job again
Pricing systems that make sense for your lifestyle, whether you’re full-time or balancing a 9–5
Building confidence through data: using your cost of doing business to back your prices
The importance of vetting clients just as much as they vet you
Setting boundaries, honoring energy, and letting “no” make space for better “yeses”
The mindset shifts that turn selling from sleazy to soulful
Rhea’s Elevate Accelerator program and how she helps photographers reach consistent five-figure months
TLDR:
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 Instagram
Follow @rheawhitney on Instagram and TikTok
Explore Rhea’s educational programs at rheawhitney.com
Connect with The Photo Bomb Academy for more resources on pricing, mindset, and business strategy
Episode Title: Licensed Counselor, Working Photographer: Real ADHD Tools
Guest: Andrea Pittman, Andrea Michelle Photography & Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Arizona + Washington
We Discuss:
How Andrea built a dual career as a wedding/lifestyle photographer and an ADHD-specialized therapist across two states
Why photography’s variety and flexibility can be a great fit for ADHD brains
The real sticking point for many solopreneurs with ADHD: business operations, bookkeeping, and “invisible” admin work
Reframing procrastination as time perception and adrenaline seeking, not failure
Practical tools: body doubling, pairing tasks, coffee-shop focus sessions, and using motivation windows instead of rigid schedules
Scheduling rest on purpose and designing home systems that protect executive function on work days
Client fit, momentum, and “ADHD inertia” in marketing and minis
Weddings, overstimulation, and planning with neurodivergence in mind
The “Solve-It Grid” from Your Brain’s Not Broken to pair high-stress tasks with low-stim, calming activities
TLDR:
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 Rosier
Follow Andrea: TikTok, Instagram, Threads — @andreamichellephoto
Andrea’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 Quitting
Guest: Solo episode with Jill C. Smith
We Discuss:
Why photography is a great fit for creatives with ADHD — and where it can still get overwhelming
Jill’s top 5 business tools that support her ADHD brain
How a missed session became the wake-up call to use a scheduler
Why she’s switching CRMs again — and what finally convinced her
How ChatGPT functions like a thought organizer and assistant
The way AfterShoot removes the dread of task initiation during busy season
Permission to outsource things like laundry, meal prep, or bookkeeping if they’re draining your energy
TLDR:
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.com
AfterShoot: https://www.aftershoot.com
ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com
Pixieset Studio Manager: https://www.pixieset.com/studio-manager
Episode Title: Coaching Creatives with ADHD with Christi Johnson
Guest: Christi Johnson, co-owner of Stephanie & Christi Photography (Greenville, SC) and founder of The Dream Biz® Lab
Christi’s coaching lens for ADHD creatives: designing businesses that work with your brain
The “Joy Menu” framework (appetizers, entrees, desserts) to spark motivation on hard days
Flexible structure vs rigid systems and why freedom, novelty, and side quests matter
Energy management and flow: noticing rhythms, nervous system cues, and choosing energizing starter tasks
Getting unfun work done: deadlines as a tool, body doubling and co-working, spacing deliverables
When to outsource and when to simplify instead of scaling
The Dream Biz® Lab: how the membership runs, what happens in calls, and who it is for
This 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/lab
Meets every other week, rotating focus on Vision, Operations, and Marketing
Includes a private podcast and the upcoming DreamBiz Playground for flexible, dopamine-friendly action plans
Next enrollment opens in January; moving to open enrollment in 2026
Connect with Christi: @christijohnsoncreative on Instagram
Christi’s site: christijohnsoncreative.com
Episode Title: The ADHD Brain & Running a Photography Business
Guest: Elena S Blair, Elena S Blair Photography, Seattle, WA
We Discuss:
How ADHD traits like hyperfocus, empathy, and intuition can become superpowers in creative entrepreneurship
Why traditional work environments often stifle ADHD brains — and how self-employment offers freedom and flexibility
The art of building systems that fit your brain instead of fighting it
Using dopamine-driven motivation to fuel creativity and productivity
The emotional side of ADHD: reframing inconsistency and distraction as strengths
How Elena and Jill each structure their businesses to work with their natural energy cycles
TLDR:
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/freebies
Follow Elena on Instagram: @elenasblair_photography
Get 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, CA
We Discuss:
Emily’s path from counselor and vice principal to photographer and systems educator
Why so many photographers struggle with the backend of business
How to pick a CRM that actually fits your brain (not a “one size fits all”)
Building a smoother path from inquiry to booking
HoneyBook 2.0 automations and conditional logic in action
Follow-ups that feel supportive and book more clients
Where to automate and where to keep the human touch
Post-session workflows that extend the client experience
Timing a CRM switch so it doesn’t wreck busy season
TLDR:
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.co
Instagram: @woodallcreativeco
Free Workflow Wellness Checklist: woodallcreative.co/podcast
Tools mentioned: HoneyBook, ShootProof, Pixieset, Picktime, Calendly, Flodesk, QuickBooks, Zapier, Unscripted
Episode Title: Upselling Video Without Burnout
Guest: Shayna Lloyd, Traveling Photographer & Videographer, Montana
We 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 perspective
Why video upsells don’t have to mean more stress or tech overloadShayna’s five-step framework for successfully adding and selling video
How to talk about video with clients in a way that feels natural and excitingPricing, objections, and why upsells are about vision, not pressure
Where video creates the most value across niches: weddings, families, and brands
TLDR: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_lloyd
Connect with Devin + Shay: Instagram – @devin_and_shay
Episode Title: The Business of Real Estate Photography
Guest: Clay Banks, Real Estate & Interiors Photographer, Catskills/Hudson Valley, NY
We Discuss:
Clay’s path from software developer and urbex hobbyist to in-demand property photographer
Why COVID-era demand in the Catskills/Hudson Valley accelerated the niche
Gear and approach: Sony a7 IV, 16–35mm + 50mm, DJI Air 2S, natural light only, Lightroom Denoise, subtle compositing
Composition rules Clay lives by: tighter crops, fewer walls, mobile-first storytelling
On-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, decks
Pricing evolution: valuing time, three-tier packages, travel, and smart add-ons
Trends and opportunities: lifestyle-driven branding for brokerages, reels, and leveling up with video
Client relations: referrals over ads, B2B ease, handling difficult collaborations with grace
Practical prep tips for homeowners and realtors
TLDR:
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.info
Follow Clay on Instagram: @clay.banks
Check out Clay’s Presets: www.claybanks.info/presets
Episode Title: IPS for Introverts
Guest: Katie Doherty, LaRousse Photo, Los Angeles, CA
We Discuss:
Katie’s path from elementary teacher to weddings to a focused boudoir and maternity studio
What introversion really looks like in a client-facing business and why IPS can fit introverts
Working fewer clients at higher price points to protect energy and creativity
A day-in-the-life: editing and reveals on non-shoot days vs. hair/makeup + 90-minute sessions on shoot days
The client journey: ads → inquiry form → Zapier to Google Sheets → automated text via Haymarket → Calendly consult
Setting expectations: session fee of $299, package starters at $995, and how transparent pricing reduces friction
Running virtual reveals on Zoom (or in-studio) and guiding selections in Lightroom without pressure
What clients actually buy: strong demand for digital packages, Vision Art matted print boxes for maternity, albums for boudoir
Simple, profitable ops: outsourcing retouching, partnering with H/MUAs, and keeping the studio setup streamlined
Style and specialization as real marketing: developing a cohesive editorial look so you’re not a commodity
TLDR:
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.com
Katie’s podcast: Introverted Photographers Club
Katie on Instagram: @laroussephoto
Episode Title: Building a Human-First Business with Rachel Larson Weaver
Guest: Rachel Larson Weaver, Photographer and Educator, Virginia
We Discuss:
The origin and evolution of Rachel’s long-form sessions
How to build a business that prioritizes art and sustainability
Why slow, intentional work can be more magnetic than polished systems
The pitfalls of over-automation and over-preparation
Shooting film as a method of artistic and business clarity
The role of human connection in marketing and client trust
Letting inspiration guide your consistency rather than trends
Why messy, heart-led business models do work—and can be highly profitable
TLDR:
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.com
Follow Rachel on Instagram: @rachel.larson.weaver
Episode Title: Part Time On Purpose
Guest: Lydia Fine, Apollo and Ivy Photography, Iowa City, IA
We Discuss:
The decision to remain intentionally part-time as a photographer
How Lydia balances a full-time marketing career with a thriving photo business
Creative pricing strategies that support sustainability and growth
The emotional and practical side of raising prices
CRM systems and workflow efficiency for photographers
How brand voice and messaging can shape your client experience
The misconception of oversaturation in the photography industry
Building a business that supports your life—without burnout
TLDR:
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/reviews
All 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 Photography
Guest: Rachel Utain-Evans, Rachel Utain-Evans Photography, Philadelphia, PA
We Discuss:
The realities of being a birth photographer, doula, and videographer—sometimes all at once
Why Rachel recommends doula training even for photographers
How she documents unpredictable, low-light births with minimal gear
Her approach to storytelling in films using short clips and ambient audio
The emotional labor of being on-call, witnessing trauma, and maintaining mental health
Her pricing strategy and why birth photography is more demanding than weddings
How to prepare if you’re thinking about entering this field
Why strong birth community networks matter and how she's mentoring others
Navigating hospitals, policies, and the OR as a supportive presence
The difference between fear-based and informed birth choices
TLDR:
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.com
Follow Rachel on Instagram: @racheluephoto
Photographer to Watch: Juliette Fradin Photography
Episode Title: The Magic in Monotony
Guest: Fiona Margo, Family Photographer & Marketing Educator, Bainbridge Island, WA
We Discuss:
The power of consistent marketing (and why it beats chasing trends)
How to market like a local—because that’s who’s booking you
Creative ways to stay inspired without jumping ship every other week
Why photographers need more strategy and less scrolling
What it means to run your business like a business
Tactical tips for getting into marketing "flow"
Model calls that actually book clients
Why being a “service provider” doesn’t mean sacrificing your artistry
The seven-to-ten rule for marketing messages—and how most photographers give up too soon
Why your followers aren't your buyers (and why that’s okay)
The role of community, connection, and patience in a long-term marketing plan
TLDR: 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: