Photographers Create

Natasha and I met because we were both older photographers (I go into the story on the Podcast). So it seemed like the obvious choice to ask my dear friend to join me in a discussion about age. A topic in our business that just isn't talked about. Aging in photography. How being an older photographer is both hard and a strength. How getting started with our photography businesses later gave us a leg up. And because of our age, our why's are so different than the norm. In a profession that is filled with 20 and 30 somethings, diving into this topic is bringing ageism out of the shadows and into the spotlight. A very welcomed thing!

Takeaways

Being an older woman in the photography industry can bring both benefits and challenges.

Age can be a superpower in family photography, as it brings wisdom, experience, and a sense of calm.

Connecting with clients is not necessarily harder because of age; in fact, it can be an advantage as clients see older photographers as wise and experienced.

Physical limitations, such as getting down on the floor for long periods of time, can be a challenge for older photographers.

Authenticity and relatability can still be achieved by older photographers, as they have gone through similar stages of parenthood and can offer guidance and understanding to clients.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Connection through Age

02:54 The Superpower of Age in Family Photography

05:05 Authenticity and Relatability as an Older Photographer

06:56 Dealing with Physical Limitations

09:01 Connecting with Clients as an Older Photographer

10:57 Different Journeys in Photography

Bio

Natasha Sewell (NPS Photography) is a lifestyle family and newborn photographer serving the Washington, D.C. area with 11+ years of experience. Her goal is to capture your life in its just as it is--beautiful, joyful, unscripted, and in the most tender of places: your home. Natasha is also a photography mentor and coach.

Links:

In this conversation, Alison Hatch interviews Kim Hildebrand, an analog film photographer, about lighting techniques for film photography. Kim shares her tips and tricks for using flash to create beautiful and consistent lighting in indoor spaces.

Takeaways

Using flash in film photography can help overcome the challenges of shooting in dark indoor spaces.

Off-camera flash and bouncing the light off reflective surfaces can create a soft and natural look.

A handheld light meter is essential for metering the flash and achieving proper exposure.

Checking the light with a digital camera before shooting on film can help ensure the desired results.

Kim Hildebrand offers resources and freebies on her website for those interested in learning more about flash photography.

Keywords

film photography, lighting, flash, off-camera flash, bouncing light, indoor photography

Sound Bites

"Flash and off-camera is the way to go."

"The reason I love off-camera flash is that it allows me to move around and get different angles without having to remeter."

"Using flash with film photography is doable and can be a game changer for indoor sessions."

Where you can find Kim:

Summary

In this episode, Alison Hatch discusses the importance of incorporating creativity into your photography business and website. She shares a story about a photographer who was asked to take photos of pets by her brother's girlfriend and how it led to an unhappy client situation. Alison emphasizes the need to manage client expectations and delight them through clear communication and a well-designed website. She suggests thinking of your website as a storefront and creating a curated and organized experience for your clients. By providing clear information, easy booking processes, and personalized touches, you can create a positive client experience and eliminate clients who are not the right fit for you.

Takeaways

Incorporate your creativity into your photography business and website design.

Manage client expectations by delighting them through clear communication and a well-designed website.

Think of your website as a storefront and create a curated and organized experience for your clients.

Eliminate clients who are not the right fit for you by providing clear information and easy booking processes.

Sound Bites

"How can you do this creatively?"

"You can be creative with your font choice or your word choice."

"Have you ever been in that situation before? Have you been in the situation with an unhappy client?"

Keywords

photography, creativity, website design, managing client expectations, delighting clients, client experience

In this episode of the Photographers Create Podcast, Anja Poehlmann discusses personal projects, specifically the 365 project. She shares her experience and tips for starting and maintaining a 365 project, including the benefits of personal projects, the importance of play and experimentation, and the value of documenting everyday moments. Anya emphasizes the need for flexibility and grace in personal projects, allowing for breaks and missed days without feeling like a failure. She also provides insights into post-processing and organization strategies for a 365 project.

Keywords

personal projects, 365 project, photography, play, experimentation, everyday moments, flexibility, grace, post-processing, organization

Takeaways

Personal projects allow photographers to explore ideas, test and play, and learn new techniques that can be applied to client work.

Starting with smaller projects can be a good segue into a 365 project, allowing photographers to build confidence and develop a routine.

Personal projects are an opportunity to capture and document the little moments in life that often go unnoticed.

Staying organized and having a system in place is crucial for managing a 365 project and ensuring that photos are easily accessible and editable.

It's important to use the equipment and process that works best for you, whether it's shooting with a phone, film, or digital camera, and finding a post-processing workflow that suits your style and preferences.

Sound Bites

"Personal projects let me play and experiment without having to prove anything to anyone."

"Starting smaller is a good segue into a 365 project."

"Missing a day doesn't mean the project has failed. Keep going and find ways to catch up."

Sound Bites

"Personal projects let me play and experiment without having to prove anything to anyone."

"Starting smaller is a good segue into a 365 project."

"Missing a day doesn't mean the project has failed. Keep going and find ways to catch up."

Sound Bites

"Personal projects let me play and experiment without having to prove anything to anyone."

"Starting smaller is a good segue into a 365 project."

"Missing a day doesn't mean the project has failed. Keep going and find ways to catch up."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Scheduling Collaboration

00:38 Getting into Personal Projects

02:55 Starting a 365 Project

06:41 Taking Baby Steps into a 365 Project

07:37 Starting Small and Building Confidence

09:29 Giving Yourself Grace in Personal Projects

10:37 Continuing a 365 Project

11:14 The Power of Photos and Videos

12:10 The Importance of Personal Projects

13:09 Filling the Gap in Photos

15:31 Keeping Photos Fresh and Creative

16:30 Finding New Angles and Techniques

24:48 Staying Organized in a 365 Project

29:13 Using the Equipment and Process That Works for You

32:04 Resources for 365 Projects

35:11 Conclusion and Where to Find Anja

Links:

In this episode, Allison Jacobs discusses her love for photographing the beach and water. She explains that while she doesn't consider herself a traditional landscape photographer, she is drawn to the beach and water because it brings her peace and calmness. Allison also talks about her experimentation with different photography styles and techniques, including film soup and double exposures. She emphasizes the importance of keeping photography fun and stress-free, and shares her love for vintage cameras and the stories they hold.

Takeaways

Find inspiration in places that bring you peace and calmness.

Experiment with different photography styles and techniques to keep your work fresh and exciting.

Don't be afraid to try different cameras and film stocks to find what works best for you.

Keep photography fun and stress-free by focusing on the joy of creating and connecting with other photographers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:43 Being Drawn to Water and the Beach

03:41 The Solitude and Details of Beach Photography

04:36 The Influence of Impressionism in Photography

05:30 Experimenting with Different Photography Styles

08:31 The Contrast Between the Beach and the City

09:43 The Challenge of Composition and Finding Interest

11:51 Finding Inspiration Outside of Familiar Environments

13:07 Keeping Photography Fun and Stress-Free

14:51 The Stories and Connections of Vintage Cameras

15:17 The Joy of Shooting with Other Photographers

19:55 The Importance of Loving the Medium You Use

22:30 The Challenges of Shooting with Different Cameras

25:44 The Love for Different Film Stocks

28:47 The Versatility of Kodak Gold 200

34:25 Preview of the Analog Artist Retreat Photo Walk

Find Allison on Instagram @allisonjacobs

In this episode, the host Alison Hatch shares five things that have helped her photography business throughout the years. The first thing is hiring a mentor, who can provide guidance, support, and help navigate the journey to success. The second thing is following her gut and listening to her intuition, which has led to finding joy and fulfillment in her work. The third thing is getting outside of her comfort zone on social media and other marketing strategies, which has helped her connect with more people and boost her confidence. The fourth thing is having other creative outlets, such as knitting and gardening, which rejuvenate her and influence her photography. The fifth thing is taking the emotion out of her business and approaching it more transactionally, which reduces stress and allows for more productivity.

In this episode, the host discusses five mistakes she made in her photography business and provides advice on how to avoid them. The mistakes include not finalizing her style before charging clients, incorporating expensive programs and systems, paying for branding, believing a big social media following is necessary, and charging too much. The host emphasizes the importance of consistency, simplicity, and understanding the local market when running a photography business. She also encourages photographers to support and advocate for each other in the industry.

In this episode, David Teran discusses his journey from wanting to be a chef to becoming a photographer. He shares how he fell in love with film photography and his passion for capturing ballerinas outside of the ballet. David emphasizes the importance of the Hasselblad camera in his work and the focus on creating visually stunning photographs. He also highlights the unique experience of shooting film and the limited number of frames available. In this conversation, David discusses his approach to ballet photography and the challenges of capturing unique and memorable shots with limited frames. He explains his preference for shooting on film and the magic of not knowing the outcome until the film is developed. David also shares his favorite locations for ballet photography and his inspiration from non-ballet photographers. He mentions his upcoming book and hints at a potential second project. Lastly, he talks about his process of developing and digitizing film.

Allison Corinne discusses her journey as a self-portrait photographer and the evolution of her self-portrait series. She shares her inspiration for creating self-portraits and the planning and execution process behind each series. Allison also talks about the use of Photoshop and AI in her work and the themes and messages that are conveyed through her self-portraits. She discusses the reception and audience engagement with her work and the influence of her maternity photography on her self-portrait style.

Takeaways

Self-portraits can be a creative and personal way to express oneself as a photographer.

Planning and execution are important aspects of creating self-portraits, with some series requiring more preparation than others.

The use of Photoshop and AI can enhance and expand the possibilities for self-portrait photography.

Self-portraits can convey personal themes and messages, reflecting the photographer's values and beliefs.

Engagement and feedback from the audience can be rewarding and validating for self-portrait photographers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:25 Inspiration for Self-Portraits

04:58 Evolution of Self-Portrait Series

08:28 Planning and Execution of Self-Portraits

10:20 Process and Ideas for New Series

13:27 Variety in Self-Portrait Styles

15:18 Use of Photoshop and AI

23:22 Reception and Audience Engagement

24:58 Influence of Maternity Photography

27:47 Closing Remarks

Summary

In this conversation, Alison and Cami discuss the balance between art and science in photography, the pressure to stay on brand, and the fear of trying new things. They emphasize the importance of embracing failure, letting go of control, and trusting the creative process. They also discuss the need for patience and self-acceptance in the journey of creativity. Overall, the conversation highlights the power of social media in providing validation and support, as well as the importance of finding balance in both photography and life. In this conversation, Alison Hatch and Cami Turpin discuss the importance of mental health, the stigma and misconceptions surrounding it, and the available support and resources. They emphasize the need for open conversations and understanding to create a supportive environment for those struggling with mental health issues. The conversation concludes with gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity to discuss this important topic.

Takeaways

Embrace failure and view it as a stepping stone towards growth and innovation.

Let go of the fear of trying new things and trust the creative process.

Find balance between personal work and business, allowing space for creativity and experimentation.

Don't be afraid to break free from the constraints of a brand and explore different tools and techniques in photography.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Cami's New Camera

02:15 The Power of Social Media and Validation

03:51 The Expensive Nature of Photography

06:30 The Balance Between Art and Science in Photography

09:38 Finding Balance in Photography

12:48 The Importance of Balance in Life

18:25 The Pressure to Stay on Brand

23:46 Letting Go and Embracing Failure

28:30 The Need for Space and Trust in the Creative Process

34:33 The Fear of Trying New Things

37:46 Embracing Failure and Working Hard

38:56 The Importance of Patience and Self-Acceptance

10:00 The Importance of Mental Health

20:00 Stigma and Misconceptions

30:00 Support and Resources

40:00 Conclusion and Gratitude

Summary

In this conversation, Alison Hatch interviews Cami Wittrock about her experience taking over Film Follow Friday on Instagram. They discuss the film community, the creative techniques they have learned and incorporated into their work, and the magic of Holga cameras. Cami shares her vision for the future of Film Follow Friday and emphasizes the inclusivity and supportiveness of the film community.

Takeaways

Film Follow Friday is a hashtag-based community on Instagram that connects film photographers and allows them to share their work.

The film community is known for its creativity and experimentation with different techniques, such as film soup and light leaks.

Using film as a medium allows photographers to let go of control and embrace the unknown, resulting in unique and surprising images.

Film Follow Friday has not only facilitated creative inspiration but also fostered meaningful friendships and connections among photographers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:52 Taking Over Film Follow Friday

03:23 The Film Follow Friday Community

05:59 Exploring Creative Techniques

07:02 Incorporating Creative Techniques into Client Work

08:19 The Magic of Holga Cameras

10:41 Embracing the Creative Energy of Film

15:24 Building Friendships and Connections

17:29 Future Plans for Film Follow Friday

21:03 Where to Find Cami

In the next few episodes we are going to dive into the incredible book The Creative Act: a Way of Being by Rick Rubin. As photographers it is easy to call ourselves creatives, but do we really know the depths of what that means. In Rick’s book he covers 78 different topics about the creative. How to know it, how to channel it, how to attract it, how to utilize it, and so on. This is Part 1 of a 4 part series of diving deep into living a creative life by Rick Rubin’s words. So worth the time to listen for anyone wanting to live a truly creative life.

Summary

In this conversation, Alison Hatch interviews Rachel Larson-Weaver about the importance of writing in a creative practice. They discuss how writing can enhance photography and other artistic mediums, and how to incorporate writing into daily life. Rachel shares her journey of how she got into writing and the interplay between writing and photography in her own work. They also talk about Rachel's writing workshop and the benefits of participating in a safe and supportive writing community. The conversation highlights the value of exploring personal obsessions in writing and the impact of different skill levels in a learning environment.

Takeaways

Writing can enhance and expand a creative practice, including photography.

Incorporating writing into daily life can provide a therapeutic and meditative outlet.

Exploring personal obsessions in writing can lead to new insights and creative growth.

Participating in a writing workshop can provide a safe and supportive space for sharing and receiving feedback.

Learning from individuals with different skill levels can enhance one's own creative journey.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

06:24 The Importance of Writing in a Creative Practice

12:54 Incorporating Writing into Daily Life

19:22 Exploring Personal Obsessions in Writing

24:47 Rachel's Writing Workshop

27:56 Creating a Safe Space for Writing

32:34 Learning from Different Skill Levels

36:40 Other Ways to Work with Rachel

39:33 Closing Remarks

When I took over Photo Native last year, I had a big hole missing from the picture of Photo Native. I had been an attendee but I wasn't part of the beginnings of Photo Native. So I asked Jessie Evans, the cofounder of Photo Native to come on the podcast to tell me (and you) the origin story of how this incredible photography conference came to be. Jessie and I talk about why they chose the name Photo Native, mistakes that were inevitable when starting something new, and the most loved moments of PN throughout the seven years it's been running. If you have been to PN in the past or are considering going, this episode is a really fun look into the magical three days that happen every year.

What a maternity session can look like varies greatly. Amy Sanusi has mastered creating images for expecting clients that are true to them. Instead of having her clients fit a specific look, Amy works at creating a connection and experience that not only rings true to the client, but makes them fall in love with the process, becoming return clients for family photos year after year. On this episode, Amy shares her process and tips for creating an outstanding experience for expecting moms.

Amy Sanusi is the owner of Kinship Photo, and in her 10th year of photographing families. When she got into photography, she was a studio manager for a wedding photographer, who slowly taught her the ropes of how to use the camera. From there, she has loved getting to form long standing relationships with her families through pregnancies, births, and everything in between. She loves making space for families to embrace the chaos of parenthood, and truly revel in the “now” before it becomes a “then.” Before moving to the Hudson Valley in Upstate New York, she lived in Brooklyn with her husband and 12 year old stepdaughter. They now have their own home with two dogs and another daughter, Willa, who is 18 months old. She is loving toddler hood so far, and can’t wait to jump into another year of maternity magic! 

Therapeutical photography. Have you heard of it? Do you know where it originated or what it is used for? On this episode I interview Anouk Godbout, a French Canadian mom of three emotionally intense children who has a Masters of Social Work. Anouk explains what therapeutical photograph is, its fascinating origins, and how implementing this practice into our lives is oh so beneficial. This episode was a fascinating shift from what we normally talk about, and listening to Anouk's French accent is a lovely few minutes.

Amy is at the end of a divorce. A time of confusion, pain, and loss of self. In her efforts to heal from this trauma, Amy leans into her art, especially self-portraiture. After taking one specific image, Amy was able to truly see herself and step into her power. On this episode Amy and I talk about how art heals, venerability, abundance verses scarcity mentality, learning to let go so we can truly explore and become the artists we are called to be, holding space for the creative unknown, and so much more! This episode is full of "AH-HA" moments that you need to experience. So get that audio going, because YOU BELONG.; ;

As adults we don't usually put time for play on our to do list, but maybe we should. On this episode, Cindy Cavanagh shares her reasons why play should be a part of every photographer's work. Leaning into personal projects to recharge and hone skills. And even using play in marketing. Don't miss this episode because You Belong!

Cindy Cavanagh is an artist who seeks beauty in the ordinary and the Australian landscape. Her painterly portraits are scenes that feel like someone has just stepped away, using colour and light to portray visual stories with deep emotion. 
Cindy mentors creatives and photographers to believe in their creative intuition. She uses a gentle voice to encourage the artist to look inwards and to observe, see, feel, listen and ultimately make stuff they love. After five years and over 50 artists later, her goal is to keep encouraging others to create from within. 

Photos just aren't enough to tell the story. Enter copy! Being image driven entrepreneurs, thinking about the copy on our websites and bios isn't really on the radar. Rachel Grieman is the owner of Green Chair Stories, the answer to you copy conundrums. Listen how Rachel talks about why copy is so important, tips for writing copy yourself if you're on a budget, and how Chat GPT will affect the future of copy writers.

Rachel Greiman is a copywriter and documentary family photographer in Denver, CO.

With a degree in photojournalism and a decade of experience writing and photographing in the nonprofit world, Rachel started Green Chair Stories: a company committed to writing websites that get photographers booked. It’s run on empathy and storytelling, getting to the heart of why photographers do what they do and what makes them different from the other photographer down the street. 

Every website tells a story. And photos are, unfortunately, only half of it. Rachel helps photographers tell the story they mean to, with the words that keep their favorite people sliding into their DMs.

Karmen Meyer is a published photographer of 14 years, renowned for her soulful portraits of women. A mother to 2 daughters and the eldest of 6 sisters, she has spent her life encompassed by awe-inspiring feminine energy and has made it her personal mission to create portraits that showcase the depth, honesty, and power of women. Celebrating each individual, just as they are. Karmen spoke at Photo Native 2023 and together we continue the conversation about photographing the feminine and the power that we as women hold.

You can find Karmen and her work...