So You Want to be a Photographer Podcast - How to transform your skills and build a profitable photography business

In this final episode, we pay tribute to Gina Milicia and the impact she has made on photographers around the world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ok, we get it. You love shooting with daylight. And either you think that learning to use flash is hard or you think it's not the look you're after. The reality is that mastering flash will not only improve your photography by leaps and bounds, it gives you much greater flexibility, enables you to shoot in the most challenging situations and provides you an edge in the way you create your images. San Francisco-based photographer Luci Valentine used to be in the same boat. But she's now embraced flash photography - and she did it in a week. She discusses: her past life as a publicist for bands like  Snoop dog, Nine-inch nails, Dr Dre and No Doubt, how she overcame her reluctance to shoot with flash, the benefits of embracing the selfie, the garage lighting project, shooting high volume headshots of female leaders, attracting new clients vs chasing new clients, the positive benefits of giving, the amazing success of the front steps project, her flower photography, the benefits of personal projects and much more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets at GinaMilicia.com. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Join the So you want to be a photographer: Podcast community Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it time to get out of your comfort zone? Whether that's trying a new technique or working with strangers, it can give your photography a new lease on life – even if it seems a little daunting at first. In this episode, Brisbane-based photographer Kerri Setch discusses how she wen beyond her comfort zone. Kerri used to find the idea of approaching strangers for photos daunting. She discusses how she overcame this fear and thrived. Kerri covers: the importance of living in the moment and lessons dragonflies can teach us, why invest the extra time and effort in 1%ers and how clients react, how she used photography as therapy to overcome chronic fatigue, the moment she made the leap from day job to full time photographer, transitioning from daylight to flash, working with strangers as an introvert, and heaps more! Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets at GinaMilicia.com. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Join the So you want to be a photographer: Podcast community Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You might be technically brilliant but if you've been shooting for a while, there is a chance your images may appear dated. If you want to ensure you maintain an edge with your photography, discover these five reasons your images may look outdated – and how to fix this.  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets at GinaMilicia.com. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Join the So you want to be a photographer: Podcast community Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Orlando-based photographer Brian Becnel, whose portrait and event photography oozes authenticity. His love of finding the beauty in everyone he sees translates into authentic and relaxed portraits. We chat about starting out on his photography journey; workshops and education, the first moment he realised this could be a side hustle; seeing the beauty in everyone; shooting authentically, how Brian relaxes his models, reading the cues clients give you; the photographer he always dreamed of becoming.  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets at GinaMilicia.com. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Join the So you want to be a photographer: Podcast community Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Jannene Meyer, an award winning pet photographer located on the Gold Coast of Australia. We chat about: making the transition from what you ‘think' you should be photographing to following your heart and photographing what you love; working with assistants, the power of mentors, Facebook marketing, 3rd party promotions, the importance of standing out in a crowded market, doggy markets, in person sales and heaps more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets at GinaMilicia.com. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Join the So you want to be a photographer: Podcast community Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We chat to guest photographer Karla Livney about making the transition from corp life to the creative life, playing the long game, the importance of creating your own website, photographing the stuff you love vs the work you think you should be doing, how working for charities is a great way to grow your business, learning to light and developing confidence, saying no to certain gigs is just as important as saying yes, gear and much more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets at GinaMilicia.com. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Join the So you want to be a photographer: Podcast community Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Family portraits are often in danger of looking cliched. But you can create, compose and style stunning family group shots that look more like professional lifestyle shots instead of awkward or uncomfortable photos. This week we discuss the steps you need to take to ensure you're taking family photos that stand out – and that your clients will love! Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets at GinaMilicia.com. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Join the So you want to be a photographer: Podcast community Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You can take the guesswork out of which lens to use after listening to this episode. You'll discover how to determine the ideal lens for your portraits in every situation. Do you need to go wide or long? Lens choice and proximity to your model can make a huge difference to how your images and model will look in an image. This week we discuss the different focal lengths and when and why to shoot wide vs long. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We're back, after a short hiatus! And today we're discussing the top 5 factors you need to incorporate to make your photography side hustle a success! This advice could change your life!  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top photographers reveal their tips that could change the way you shoot. We chat with: Sean Tucker about  selecting authentic subject matter that is meaningful to the photographer and why seeking honest critiques and ignoring social media praise is a game-changer. Also street photographer Julia Coddington on how to get close to people in street photography and by close I mean uncomfortably close. And Joel Grimes shares an inspiring story about dealing with rejection and how he nearly let an Art Director steal his dream of becoming a world-class advertising photographer. This advice could change your life!  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover the biggest ‘a-ha' moments from masters of photography. We hear from photographer and New York Times bestseller Nick Boothman shares the best way for portrait photographers to connect with the people they photograph and get authentic reactions. He also shares the best smile tip ever! You'll discover Nat Geo photographer Ami Vitale's advice on how to pitch a magazine editor. This advice is gold and many photographers miss out on gigs because they fail at pitching. Documentary photographer Donato DiCamillo shares an incredible story about   How he taught himself to use a camera while being in home confinement after his release from prison. Wildlife photographer Scott Bourne shares the importance of shooting intuitively and not being hung up on lenses plus an amazing hack to improve your way of telling stories. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet photographer Brenda Petrella who took a leap of faith when she left her cushy job as a cancer researcher for a tree change and life as a landscape photographer. She is a Vermont-based landscape and nature photographer, the founder of Outdoor Photography School , and the host of the Outdoor Photography Podcast. We chat about how it feels to make that leap of faith, why every portrait photographer should embrace the landscape photography, the importance of leaving some shots to the imagination and not having to shoot everything you see, how to be a socially, environmentally and ethically responsible landscape photographer, scouting locations, being in the moment, whether HDR overrated, finding great light, gear+settings and heaps more! Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's never too late to start a photography business. Meet photographer Rebecca Martin. Not only is she a mother of eight, she's grandmother to 11 kids! Rebecca picked up a camera to start recording her babies, and now runs a successful wedding and portrait business. She's started working with her daughter Lena as a second shooter and talks about the lessons she's learned, posing and directing large groups and the importance of preplanning shoots, the importance of the 1 percenters, creating high-end images using budget gear, using creativity to take her work to the next level and heaps more!   Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet photographer Anna Hornby, who does fine art lifestyle, virtual and family photography. Anna walks us through a virtual shoot and discuss: shooting on an iphone and getting over the tech cringe, directing and posing and find great light virtually, her influences, finding inspiration everywhere, growing a new business, editing and shooting with an edit in mind and more! Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you build your photography skills and career when you are flat out busy, constantly on the road and have limited time? This week's guest Danni Banchi does just that, combining her busy life driving trucks across the US with her love of photography. Find out more about she makes it work in this week's episode.  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you take your photography to the next level? You may be surprised to know that it's not about a specific technical skill or a particular piece of equipment. There are 5 strategies you need to consider if you truly want to excel and make it as a photographer. Discover them in this week's episode.  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you have a fulltime job, what steps can you take to build your photography side hustle? You'll discover: Should you start a side hustle? What is your definition of success? What are the basics needed to start a side hustle? Learn the basics, practice, rinse and repeat. How to find your niche. Advertising and branding. And more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Pauline Klemm, who had a sliding doors moment 3 years ago that completely changed her life when her brother, Michael, a gifted photographer, died tragically in India. Her decision to keep his camera and learn photography began as a way of sharing his legacy. This has now grown and Pauline's life has grown and evolved in exciting ways. If you've ever been on the fence about embracing photography later in life or any age then this beautiful story is a must listen. We chat about: making the pilgrimage back to India, the moment Pauline decided to keep Michael's camera that would change her life forever, the importance of mentors and education, dealing with imposter syndrome, the importance of slowing down, the benefits of working with assistants, how saying yes led her to her latest personal project with Baba Desi and heaps more! Discover this and more in this week's episode.  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These days, there are countless options available to aspiring photographers who want to improve their skills? Podcasts, courses, mentoring, assisting, and more! So how do you choose the best method to fast track your own learning and ensure that you uplevel your skills effectively and efficiently? Discover this and more in this week's episode. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wanted to print your own image at home but achieve the professional output you would get from a lab? Meet multi award winning Australian photographer Ian van der Wolde,  a successful Melbourne based commercial photographer who specialities include advertising, aerial, fashion, food, corporate, people, public relations, portraiture, product and industrial photography. Ian also specialises in digital colour management and fine art printing. We chat about: commercial photography and finding clients, printer recommendations, paper recommendations, when to use glossy vs matt papers, archival printing, colour profiles, whether you can still get good looking prints from a tablet or laptop? Find out why your images look great on-screen and too dark in print and how to fix this, the importance of having the correct ambient lighting when proofing prints and editing files, the best monitors for editing and printing images, Ian's printing protocol, jpeg compression and banding – and much more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you take jaw-dropping astro photography? We talk to Michael Goh and you'll discover: how Michael went from working with a corporate sponsor to full time commercial photographer shooting business events and astro photography for documentaries, WA Museum, WA tourism, WA opera and heaps more, getting his break as a commercial business event photographer, promoting his work via Linkedin, how he shoots his time lapse photography and timelapse tips for beginners, the rule of 500, why Michael prefers to experiment rather than rely on certain rules of Astro photography, what is the Bortle Scale, scouting locations, the importance of foreground elements, a beginners guide to shooting astro photography and much more! Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How does commercial portrait photography differ from regular portrait photography? We talk to Jeroen Nieuwhuis on his work as a commercial portrait photographer. You'll discover: how he landed his first commercial gig at 18, the importance of knowing how to pose and direct models, why you need good assistants, getting booked from personal projects by commercial clients, funding personal projects, gear preferences, working with art directors, how he lights and directs his images and heaps more.  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Connecting with people when you're taking their portraits can be challenging. Because a great shot is not just about the technical aspects of photography. It's also about whether your subject is comfortable, relaxed and at ease with the camera. In this episode, you'll discover the techniques you need to use when you're directing shy, anxious, overconfident or difficult people. Find out about this and much more in this week's episode. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you're posing people, it can be easy to fall into the trap of letting them fall into awkward or cliched poses without even noticing. That could make or break a shot. So what kind of poses should you look out for? How can you avoid them? And if you find your subject doing one, what can you do to turn a “meh” pose into a winner? Find out about this and much more in this week's episode.  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you achieve compelling shots with total strangers. We chat to Daryl and Judy Ford about: the pros and cons of two creatives living together, how Judy and Daryl used a photo tour guide to help them gain access to subjects living in remote locations, techniques they used to connect with complete strangers. Jude gives us her tips on applying for photographic grants, how they pack for their trips, gear recommendations, and heaps more!  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To drop or not to crop? And if you are going to crop, exactly where is the right spot? This episode is all about how to crop your portraits perfectly. You’ll discover: key cropping proportions that will make all the difference, why understanding the final use and purpose of the shot is so important, where you should NEVER crop, why you need to allow breathing space and so much more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is all about how to get of auto and master manual mode forever. If you’ve been scared to embrace manual mode fully, or you’re still relying on “aperture priority” or “shutter priority”, discover how these functions all relate to each other so that you can capture the kind of shots you’ve always wanted. Gina and Valerie discuss this and more.  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are the best portrait lenses for beginners, enthusiasts and pros? Everything you need to know about the lenses you need to take great portraits. What you need to consider about crop and full frame, wide versus long, zoom versus prime and much more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How to photograph high end looking products with entry level gear. It’s not your gear, it’s how you use it. In this episode, you’ll discover how to create high end looking product shots using entry level equipment. If you would like to watch the screenshare as we show how the techniques are done, go to Episode 345 on GinaMilicia.com You’ll discover: how high end images can be created in a small space with lighting kits under $200; how to photograph highly reflective products without reflections; high end looking lighting using a single speedlight and diffuser; how to minimize harsh highlights; how combine multiple exposures and edit using lightroom and photoshop. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Kenneth LeRose, a nomadic traveller who specialises in Astro/Landscape Photography. He roams the US in his tiny little Airstream with his best furry friend Sabu. He also runs workshops in astrophotography. To him, It is crucial to get people excited about the night sky.  “The more people that fall in love with our twinkling stars, the more awareness we can spread to the importance of persevering our night sky and minimizing light pollution”, says Kenneth. We chat to Kenneth about his photography – and so much more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet Kenneth LeRose, a nomadic traveller who specialises in Astro/Landscape Photography. He roams the US in his tiny little Airstream with his best furry friend Sabu. He also runs workshops in astrophotography. To him, It is crucial to get people excited about the night sky.  “The more people that fall in love with our twinkling stars, the more awareness we can spread to the importance of persevering our night sky and minimizing light pollution”, says Kenneth. We chat to Kenneth about his photography – and so much more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Getting started with flash can seem daunting if you’ve never done it. However, when you hear how to do it – step by simple step – you’ll wonder why you haven’t embraced the world of flash earlier! Trust us. You’ll love it! And it’s easier than you think. In this episode, you’ll discover: What is flash? Why use flash? Understanding daylight is the key to understanding flash, the sunflower protocol, gear, a quick and easy way to see how light works, the 5 minute off camera flash set up for beginners, what you can do to build your confidence and the techniques we recommend to quell fear – on your creative journey and during your shoots. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How to overcome fear and become a more confident photographer. No matter where you are on your photographic journey, insecurity and fear can creep in when you least expect it. So how do you deal with this? In this episode, you’ll discover what you can do to build your confidence and the techniques we recommend to quell fear – on your creative journey and during your shoots. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Great portraits can be easy to shoot when you have beautiful light and time to experiment. This is often the case when we are shooting to build our portfolios or learn new lighting techniques. Unfortunately amazing photo opportunities are often sabotaged by time constraints or poor lighting, In this episode we discuss the best ways to shoot under extreme time pressure, find or make the best lighting and nail the perfect shot. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What makes a portrait? Apart from the technical aspects, there are a few intangible factors that you need to consider if you want to create a portrait that makes people go “Wow”. We reveal what you need in this episode. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Adventure and elopement weddings are exploding in popularity in the last few years. Pandemics, social distancing and travel restrictions and $$$ are influencing more couples to rethink the traditional 100+ people wedding. Joel Alston has grown his intimate and elopement wedding photography business from 2 weddings a year to 70 + weddings a year which is HUGE. He has photographed couples in some gorgeous locations including Iceland and New Zealand. In this episode we have an raw conversation about: The joys and advantages of shooting intimate and elopement weddings  How he grew his business from 2 - 70 + per year so quickly The pros and cons of growing so quickly The personal cost of doing 70+ weddings in a year Work-life balance Mental health and photography What “success” means to Joel  His thought process from start to finish including, planning an elopement shoot, scouting locations etc + heaps more! Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Photographer Mitchel Wu must have the best job in the world. His clients include: Marvel, The Walt Disney Company, Hasbro, Mattel, Warner Bros and more. He photographs toys. But with a difference! His unique approach in toy photography is full of humour and quirkiness. Discover how Mitchel got started, what attracted him to toy photography, the importance of playfulness, his process, where he finds inspiration, shooting “in-camera” vs composites, his advice to newbies and so much more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How to build an awesome brand, book more clients and make lots more money as a photographer. Meet Jeff Brown, a full time professional photographer and marketing consultant, who will reveal how to do all that and much more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this “start to finish” video tutorial we share how to light and edit a photograph with a simple set up so you can easily practice at home using daylight, continuous lighting or flash.  In this special episode, you can follow along via video, just go to the show notes for episode 335 at GinaMilicia.com. Gina explains how changing the direction of light can take your images from meh to amazing, simple lighting using daylight, next level lighting using a torch, lamp or continuous light, one light flash set up using speedlights or studio lights, how to replicate daylight using continuous lighting or flash, merging multiple images using focus stacking, an introduction to layer masks, basic editing tips, and a painterly editing style tutorial. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nancy Floyd has been photographing herself since 1982, with the aim of taking a photo a day. The resulting project, comprising over 2500 images, is a study on the passage of time, loss and the ageing female body.  Weathering Time is the winner of the inaugural ICP / GOST First Photo Book Award. In this fascinating chat, you’ll discover:the initial thinking behind this project; how Nancy felt when she first viewed the images as a body of work; how to let go of perfection and focus on the long game; how the technical and visual aspects of the project evolved over the years; Nancy’s thought process in setting up the images; the most powerful element is not what we see is there but what's missing; the ideal final image of the series; and advice to photographers thinking of starting a personal project. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet commercial photographer Tony Roslund who specialises in architecture and headshot photography. You’ll discover: what’s it like being part of three generations of photographers, how he broke into product and architecture photography, pricing, his motto “DO AVERAGE ELSEWHERE”, the different genres of product photography, Tony’s product photography thought process, and much more.  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Preet is a Dubai based Photographer who has gorgeous images and is founder of DXB VISUALS , A web store for Canvas Backdrops & Camera Straps. In this chat, you’ll discover how Preet developed his skills photographing pre-school children, why he sends physical proofs rather than digital proofs, the importance of anticipating the moment, how Preet broke into commercial photography via word of mouth, the importance of pre visualising images, and much more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Go on a “start to finish” journey of a photograph, from conception to composing, shooting, directing, lighting, right through to Lightroom adjustments and Photoshop post-production. Gina and Valerie discuss a character portrait of a wizened man in Cuba smoking a car, taking you through every step of the process. In this special episode, you can follow along via video. Just go to the show notes for episode 331 at GinaMilicia.com  Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover how to license your images and add another revenue stream to your photography business. In this interview with Adam Taylor, you’ll find out: how Adam got started shooting action sports and fitness photography, moving his family from California to Hawaii in the middle of a pandemic, the authentic video resume that led to his big break, the importance of doing the “reps” to master photography, what is licensing and why should photographers start thinking about this business model, how to educate your clients about licensing, how to get into a licensing mindset and much more. We hope you enjoy the podcast. Read the show notes Join the So you want to be a photographer: Podcast community Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets.  Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live masterminds and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Connect on Instagram @valeriekhoo  @ginamilicia Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to kick off 2021 so that you’re organised for the rest of the year – and beyond!? We give you a blueprint for the best way to organise your photography gear, files and time. These are real world tips that are tried and true so that you’ll be more productive and efficient. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Happy new year! We celebrate with you – our wonderful listeners – and recap more great photography lessons we’ve learnt in the past year. From the art of storytelling, to lighting tips and how to master the right mindset, take these lessons in 2021 for a cracker of a year. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the holidays upon us, we look at the best photography lessons of 2020. From how to gain more confidence to the easiest smile hack ever – and everything in between! Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Editing your shots can turn an average image into a stunner. But where do you start and what sorts of tools should you use. We break down the key effects and basic editing tools you can use to transform your images. For the first time, we’ve also provided an accompanying video so you can see what we’re doing “live” on screen and watch the exact tools that are used. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet photographer Brian Friedman who started out as a road manager for the legendary jazz drummer Roy Haynes. But it was during Haynes’ 20-city tour, that Brian began photographing Roy and discovered his passion for image-making that put him on a road to a new career. Since then, he has become recognised as the photographer of choice by noted entertainment personalities, corporate leaders, event planners and individuals. His clients include iHeartRadio, Clearchannel Communications, NBC, CBS, 20th Century Fox, and comedians, Brian Regan and Bill Burr, to name a few. Brian’s images have appeared in The New York Times, USA Today, People, Playboy, The Economist, and Pollstar to name a few. In 2007-2008 Brian had the distinct honour of photographing Barack and Michelle Obama for the 'Obama for America' campaign. Brian walks us through a typical shoot and shares his thought process. He discusses the importance of bringing the right energy to a shoot, developing a style, the importance of playing the long game, the best shooting angles for concerts and events, gear choices, and back up protocol. Brian also takes us through a large group shot shoot with 500+ people and heaps more. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Go behind the scenes in these photographs on the thought process behind what makes these great images. From posing, lighting and composing, you’ll get insight into what goes into these shots and ideas on how you can apply them to your own work. Gina and Valerie hope you enjoy the podcast. Sign up to the newsletter for great tips and free Lightroom presets. Join the dynamic Gold Membership in our Community which delivers monthly tutorials, live mastermind and lots of behind the scenes videos into the creative process. Find out more at ginamilicia.com. Read the show notes Email Gina and Valerie news@ginamilicia.com  Visit GinaMilicia.com | ValerieKhoo.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.