PODCAST SHOW NOTES
EPISODE 1 DESCRIPTION:
In this first episode of The Photo Scene podcast, co-founders and long-time friends Josie and Vania take a deep dive into what The Photo Scene is all about and how it came to be. Get to know the hosts as they interview each other and reveal all about their backgrounds as professional photographers, what influenced them, and some of their best tips for when you’re just starting your own photography business.
SHOW NOTES:
(1:00) What is The Photo Scene?
It’s a learning platform for photographers offering education and mentorship support, so they don’t have to struggle with all the trial and error we struggled with.
We wish we’d had someone or a platform to connect with and learn from other photographers. All the trial and error can get exhausting if you don’t know what you’re doing so, The Photo Scene aims to bridge the gap between feeling stuck as a creative and providing tools for progressing forward.
(5:10) Josie’s Story
I was a dental technician before I ever considered becoming a photographer. It wasn’t until I was 28 or so years old that I began to see it as a potential path for my future. I was pregnant with my first child at the time and had asked someone to take some photos of me. Afterward, I spent hours editing the photos and fell in love with the process. I later picked up a point and shoot and started playing around with it, taking photos and editing. It wasn’t until I picked up my father’s DSLR at a family gathering that it hit. It was my father who saw something in me, the creative drive that I hadn’t seen in myself yet.
After working as a photographer and dental tech part-time for a year, I considered applying for a 4-year Dental Hygienist program. That’s when I realized that I could be making just as much money, if not more, being a photographer and doing something I was genuinely passionate about.
I started as a fashion photographer, which is how Vania and I met, and then I was approached by a soon-to-be bride to do an exceptionally well-paying wedding shoot. After that experience, I transitioned to the wedding photography niche and never looked back.
(10:32) What are your tips for going full-time?
Try to already have a flow of business coming in before considering going full-time. Seeing the potential of the income you can earn part-time can give you the confidence to jump in full-time
(11:53) What does being a full-time photographer look like for you now?
It can be overwhelming to do a lot at once, especially when transitioning from a full-time job to a new solo career. The reality of working for yourself is there’s no set start and end to the workday, especially as a photographer. You may work weekends or be up till odd hours editing. You have to be self-motivated and make sure you set the time aside to get work done. But once you get into the flow of things, you can maintain more control over your schedule.
(20:46) Who were your biggest influences in photography?
Lara Jade, Lindsay Adler, and India Earl, among other fashion photographers.
(22:11) Who’s your dream client in the wedding industry?
I’d love to shift my focus toward elopements and micro-weddings, giving me the chance to travel more.
(23:26) What is some advice you’d give to aspiring photographers looking to make photography their full-time job?
If you can tell yourself you can do it, you’ll do it. If you put mind over matter, you can drive yourself to get it all done. You must have the drive to succeed. Believe that you will succeed, or you won’t succeed.
Spend one hour every single day on your business.
We’re the drivers of our life – Josie
Mindset and consistency are the two most important things. – Vania
Remember to speak kindly to yourself.
(30:46) Vania’s Story
I started my early career as a model and actress. I moved to LA shortly after high school and found success there. However, as time went on, I became curious and fascinated with the work that went into creating the actual images. I spent time asking the photographers questions and helping them edit photos post-shoot. I soon realized I preferred to be behind the camera rather than in front of it.
I went back home to Arizona, where I took courses in digital media and landed a couple of assistant jobs working for a commercial photographer and a fine art/fashion photographer. I credit them both for mentoring me and teaching me so many of the fundamentals of photography. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for their guidance.
(36:43) What advice would you give to someone looking for an internship?
- Aspire to be like or want to be in the position of the photographer you are learning from. I always knew I wanted to do commercial, fashion, and fine art photography, so it made sense for me to work with mentors in those fields.
- Don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions, take notes, and dive in. It’s easier to learn from someone doing something versus trying to do it all on your own. The hands-on experience is one of the best ways to learn. It also allows you to receive direct feedback on your work.
(39:48) How long have you been a photographer?
Unofficially, I started when I was 12. I would pose my brother against pretty landscapes using poses I found in magazines. While living in LA, I’d organize informal photoshoots with friends. But officially, my photography business started in 2012.
(41:03) Favorite podcasts?
Lewis Howes; The School of Greatness
Photography Podcasts: The Heart & Hustle, D’arcy Benincosa,
Non-Photography Podcast: Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu
(43:40) What things do you do to stay happy and level while running two businesses and being a mommy of 3 littles?
Working out and self-care must come first.I love running or a hard workout balanced with mindfulness practices such as meditation, yoga, breathwork, and prayer. Self-care first, then you can figure out the other stuff.
(45:25) Why do you like to educate, and have you done it before?
I love helping people, as cliché as it sounds. Creatives can have a tough time learning the ropes in our society and culture, and we have to make our own way. Helping other photographers or creatives trying to navigate the world of business fulfills me. I used to teach modeling and acting workshops. I’ve taught small photography workshops and fluid painting workshops. So, I do have some experience with teaching!
Closing remarks:
That wraps up our first episode! Remember, don’t let others discourage you from believing that you can make a living doing what you love. If people tell you that you can’t do something, know it isn’t about you. You can do anything you put your mind to!
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