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