#539 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Bryan Caporicci, a seasoned wedding photographer who blends business acumen with artistic passion. Bryan shares insights into navigating the photography landscape by focusing on foundational skills, emphasizing patience, and finding personal joy in photography. He highlights the importance of technical mastery before creative exploration and the value of building meaningful connections.

THE BIG IDEAS

• Master the Basics: Understand your camera settings thoroughly before diving into complex photography scenarios. A solid foundation sets the stage for creativity.
• Practice Under Pressure: Learn to operate your camera instinctively in high-pressure situations. This skill is invaluable, particularly in fast-paced environments like weddings.
• Slow Down for Success: Embrace a patient approach to photography and avoid rushing through your learning process. Long-term success is built gradually.
• Embrace Creativity: Once technical mastery is second nature, focus on capturing moments, emotions, and stories that resonate and tell a unique narrative.

PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLAN

1. Enhance Technical Confidence: Spend an hour each day practicing different camera settings until they become second nature. Conduct small self-assigned projects focusing on low-light and fast-paced scenarios.
2. Develop Real-World Experience: Volunteer as a second shooter for a local event photographer to gain experience. Shadow a professional to learn the dynamics of different shoot environments.
3. Build a Portfolio of Experiences: Select 5 personal favorite photos that highlight varied skills like lighting, composition, and emotion. Create a physical or digital album and update it monthly to track progress.
4. Connect with Professional Circles: Attend local photography meet-ups to network and seek mentorship. Practice engaging with other photographers through collaborative projects or photo walks.
5. Explore Personal Creativity: Dedicate time each week to a creative project that pushes your boundaries. Experiment with different genres of photography to discover new inspirations.

RESOURCES:
Visit Bryan Caporicci's Website - https://www.bcapphoto.com/
Follow Bryan Caporicci on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bcapphoto/

Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!
https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#538 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Mandy Wright, Esteban Gil, Nicole Begley, Rhea Whitney, and Michelle Harris down at Imaging USA about the art of marketing your photography business. You'll gain insights into building client relationships, valuing your work, and maintaining passion in your art.

THE BIG IDEAS

• Create Lasting Client Relationships: Investing in genuine connections with clients can drive word-of-mouth referrals, expanding your network organically.
• Self-Awareness Enhances Success: Understanding what truly aligns with your values and interests can prevent burnout and guide your career path effectively.
• Business Adaptability: Adapting your strategy to leverage free resources and tools like social media and online communities can accelerate your growth.
• Finding Joy Amid Chaos: Enjoyment and playfulness in your work ensure sustained passion, even amidst the pressures of turning your hobby into a business.

PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLAN

1. Build Client Relationships: Attend events or dinners if invited to show your investment in clients' special occasions. Ensure clear, timely communication, keeping your interactions positive and professional.
2. Develop Self-Awareness: Journal your thoughts about what feels right in your business to better align with your goals. Periodically reassess your service offerings to ensure satisfaction and fulfillment.
3. Leverage Free Resources: Utilize social media platforms to showcase your work and engage with potential clients. Join online photography communities for knowledge sharing and mentorship opportunities.
4. Embrace Creativity: Plan personal photography projects that excite and challenge your artistic boundaries. Explore new techniques or gear periodically to keep your skills dynamic and evolving.
5. Focus on Genuine Networking: Connect with fellow photographers for support, inspiration, and potential collaborations. Attend workshops and conferences to learn from seasoned professionals and grow your circle.

RESOURCES:
Visit Mandy Wright's Website - https://www.mandywrightphotography.com/
Visit Esteban Gil's Website - https://www.egilphoto.com/
Visit Nicole Begley's Website - https://hairofthedogacademy.com/
Visit Rhea Whitney's Website - https://rheawhitney.com/
Visit Michelle Harris' Website - https://mharrisstudios.com/

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!
https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#537 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Kelly Lawson, a passionate photographer who transitioned from the healthcare field to create a successful photography career. Kelly shares her journey, highlighting the allure of creativity and entrepreneurship that photography offers. She emphasizes the importance of mastering light and using minimal resources effectively to elevate your photography skills.

THE BIG IDEAS

• Explore Your Creative Outlet: Photography is a beautiful way to express creativity outside of your day job and discover new entrepreneurial opportunities.
• Find Joy in Small Wins: Each photographic success, no matter how small, builds confidence; cherish these moments to propel your learning.
• Appreciate the Power of Teaching: Sharing your knowledge with others is both rewarding and reinforces your own skills.
• Utilize One Light Source: Simplifying your lighting setup lets you focus on mastering the fundamentals and achieving clearer, crisper photos.

PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLAN

1. Experiment with Natural Light: Observe how natural light changes throughout the day. Use large windows or open shade outdoors for consistent lighting without harsh shadows.
2. Create a Simple Background: Purchase affordable foam core or cardstock to create a seamless background that enhances your product photos. Set up a small, clean photo area in your home with these materials.
3. Focus on a Single Subject: Start with a simple object like a coffee cup and explore different angles and lighting setups. Capture it from various perspectives to understand how angles influence perception.
4. Connect with Your Target Audience: Tailor your photos to captivate your intended audience by thinking about what excites them. Brainstorm visual elements that resonate with your audience's interests.
5. Rekindle Your Passion: Regularly revisit your initial motivations for taking up photography to reignite your passion. Reflect on your journey and acknowledge your growth.

RESOURCES:
Visit Kelly Lawson's Website - https://kellylawson.ca/
Follow Kelly Lawson on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kellyslawson/

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!
https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!