Ready to sit down with one of the most acclaimed names in the wedding photography world? On this episode of the podcast, we have the amazing Susan Stripling joining us. With more than two decades of experience capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments, Susan brings her signature honesty, humor, and razor-sharp insight to a conversation that dives deep into what it really takes to thrive in this industry. 

We talk about everything from her best tips for new and seasoned photographers, to the kinds of fears that still creep in before a shoot (yes, even those of us who have been doing this for 20+ years still get the jitters), and our mutual love of dogs. Susan opens up about the pressure to perform when there are no do-overs, the challenge of staying creatively engaged after hundreds of weddings, and how to turn fear into fuel for growth.

And if you’ve ever noticed how many people in the wedding industry used to work in theater - you are not alone. Since we are both theater people, Susan and I discuss why theater people (actors, directors, makeup artists, etc.) often find their way to the wedding biz - and why those theater chops make for some seriously dynamic photographers.

This episode is packed with real talk, professional gold, and a lot of laughs. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the game for years, Susan’s wisdom and warmth will remind you why we fell in love with photography in the first place, and why showing up with a bit of vulnerability and a whole lot of heart still matters.

This episode contains promos for:

• StyleCloud WordPress Website Templates
• Backblaze Data Backup
• Let's Be Real Unposed Photography Prompts
• Nerdy Photographer Contract Templates

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Leave a review for the podcast - it helps us more than you can know!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
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• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
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• If you’re feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

Susan Stripling has been photographing weddings, portraits, and theater for over twenty years.

Susan’s work has been published in Inside Weddings, Martha Stewart Weddings, Grace Ormonde Wedding Style, Modern Bride, Town and Country Weddings, the New York Times, New York Post, Rangerfinder, PDN, and in ads and advertorials for Nikon USA, Epson, and Canon USA.

Susan has been an educator for Photo Plus, WPPI, PPA, Mystic Seminars, Portrait Masters, and Creative Live. She has been named one of the top ten wedding photographers in the world by American Photo Magazine. She is also currently a Grand Master with ICON.

She is most honored to be named an Explorer of Light by Canon USA.

Susan also the founder of The Wedding School, which strives to bring real, honest education to wedding photographers worldwide.

In her spare time, besides spending time with her incredible family, Susan is a voracious reader, lover of all horror movies, and inexplicably sleeps with the lights on.

You can find Susan on her website - https://susanstripling.com - or on Instagram https://instagram.com/susanstriplingphotography

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 25 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's artwork at https://art.caseyfphoto.com, his wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his corporate photography work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com 

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

Ever find yourself navigating the divide between artistic expression and commercial work. How do you balance the two? In this episode, we dive deep into the differences, and the overlap, between artistic and commercial photography.

We’ll explore how creating art for yourself and working to meet a client’s specific needs can sometimes feel like two worlds apart. From finding your own voice in a commercial world to knowing when to take creative risks, we break down how you can approach both sides of the photography spectrum without losing your passion.

If you’ve ever wondered how to merge your creative spirit with the demands of the market, this episode has the insights you need. Tune in and discover how to navigate both worlds with confidence!

This episode contains promos for:

• StyleCloud WordPress Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/
• Siteground Web Hosting - https://www.siteground.com/go/nerdy
• Narrative AI Culling, Editing, and Publishing - https://narrative.so/select?affiliate=casey2746
• Let's Be Real Unposed Photography Prompts - https://nerdyphotographer.com/lets-be-real/

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Leave a review
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
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• Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com
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• If you’re feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

Holly Lund is a New Jersey photographer specializing in fine art children's portraiture. With inspiration coming from 18th & 19th century paintings, modern fashion, and other various artistic mediums, she has crafted a style she refers to as a vintage-modern aesthetic. From International workshops to 1:1 coaching, she helps fellow photographers craft from their inspirations and hone their own unique voices.

You can find Holly on her website - HollyLundImagery.com, her Etsy shop, check out her collection of photographic backdrops at Fine Art Dream Drops, or on Instagram @hollylundimagery

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his corporate and private client work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com 

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

In this powerful episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, we sit down with documentary filmmaker Ilie Mitaru to discuss his deeply moving film First Frames. The documentary follows the journey of photographer and refugee Serbest Salih who travels to refugee camps to teach children the basics of photography—giving them not just a creative outlet, but a voice. For children facing the trauma of displacement, disrupted education, and overwhelming anxiety, the camera becomes more than a tool—it becomes a lifeline.

Ilie shares the inspiration behind the film and what drew him to this story. The idea that something as simple as a camera could provide emotional relief and empowerment was a concept he found both beautiful and necessary. As the film unfolds, it becomes clear that photography offers these children a way to process their experiences, to document their world on their own terms, and to feel seen in a life where invisibility often feels like the norm.

We discuss the careful balance required to tell these stories truthfully and respectfully, and how the project reinforced Ilie's belief in the transformative power of storytelling. The children’s photos are not just snapshots—they are declarations of identity, resilience, and hope.

This episode is a poignant reminder of photography’s ability to do more than capture beautiful images. It can heal. It can educate. It can empower. Whether you're a professional photographer or someone who simply loves the art form, First Frames is a story that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Tune in to hear how one filmmaker is documenting the intersection of creativity, compassion, and global impact—one frame at a time.

Watch the Film Here - https://nerdyphotographer.com/podcast/147-first-frames-giving-refugee-children-artistic-voice/

Contribute to Serbest's photo organization - https://www.fotohane.org/

This episode contains promos for the following:

• On1 Photo Software - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/on1/
• Backblaze Data Backup - https://www.backblaze.com/cloud-backup/personal#afc32p
• Siteground Web Hosting - https://www.siteground.com/go/nerdy
• Narrative AI Culling, Editing, and Publishing - https://narrative.so/select?affiliate=casey2746

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
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• If you’re feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

Ilie Mitaru is an Emmy-nominated producer and director whose work centers on regular people in extraordinary circumstances.

American cowboys brought to rural Russia to help restart the country’s beef industry; renegade farmers building their own wildfire defense rigs; a lone auto mechanic traversing miles of desert borderland with jugs of water to save his fellow migrants, Ilie’s stories create empathy and a connection to what at first might appear foreign, but ultimately proves universal.

Ilie’s films and photography have been featured in The New York Times, National Geographic, The Guardian, among others. A first generation Romanian-American whose parents received political asylum during the Cold War, Ilie is drawn to stories that push against easy assumptions of otherness and strive for a more complex understanding of the individuals and communities centered in his work.

His work can be found at www.iliemitaru.com

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com 

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

Photography has the power to capture more than just moments - it can preserve cultures, tell untold stories, and honor traditions. In this episode, we’re joined by an indigenous photographer who shares how they use their camera to document and preserve their community’s rich cultural heritage.

Through their lens, we learn how photography becomes an act of cultural preservation, combating misrepresentation, and giving voice to communities that have been marginalized. We also explore the personal journey of balancing respect for tradition with the creative freedom of storytelling.

This episode contains promos for the following:

• StyleCloud WordPress Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/
• Backblaze Data Backup - https://www.backblaze.com/cloud-backup/personal#afc32p
• Siteground Web Hosting - https://www.siteground.com/go/nerdy
• Narrative AI Culling, Editing, and Publishing - https://narrative.so/select?affiliate=casey2746

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/nerdy-photographer
• If you’re feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

"I am an indigenous award Winning filmmaker and photographer based of out Oklahoma. Currently working for Cherokee film/Osiyo Tv as a cinematographer on the documentary team, where we tell stories all Cherokees all over the world."

You can view more of Cody Hammer's work on Instagram @_codyhammer_

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's photography work at https://caseyfphoto.com

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

In an industry obsessed with specs, megapixels, and the latest mirrorless marvels, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that your photos will only be as good as your gear. But let’s set the record straight: you do not need the newest camera on the market to create high-quality, compelling images. The true power of a photograph lies not in its resolution—but in the person behind the lens.

In this episode of the podcast, we’re diving into the myth that better gear automatically leads to better photos. Yes, having the right tools for the job matters—but far too often, photographers get caught up in a cycle of gear envy, believing that the latest model will suddenly make them better artists. Spoiler alert: it won’t. Creativity, understanding of light, composition, and the ability to connect with your subject are all far more important than any spec sheet.

We share stories of incredible images shot on so-called “outdated” equipment, including photographers who have created award-winning work with entry-level DSLRs or even smartphone cameras. It’s a reminder that limitations can actually spark innovation. When you stop relying on the camera to “wow,” and instead rely on your eye and your instincts, your photography improves in leaps and bounds.

Plus, let’s talk about the financial side of this. Chasing gear is expensive. That money could be better spent investing in education, portfolio-building experiences, or maybe even a relaxing weekend that helps refill your creative cup. There’s nothing wrong with upgrading when it’s truly needed—but constant upgrades won’t make up for gaps in skill or vision.

At the end of the day, your camera is just a tool—like a paintbrush to a painter or a pen to a writer. It’s how you use it that matters most. So before you hit “add to cart” on that shiny new body, ask yourself: do you need more megapixels—or just more practice? Tune in to this episode and be reminded that your greatest photography asset isn’t in your bag—it’s in your head and heart.

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy some merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's photography work at https://caseyfphoto.com

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

Nature and landscape photography offer more than just stunning images—they can play a powerful role in conservation and mental well-being. In this episode, we explore how photographers can use their work to raise awareness about environmental preservation while also benefiting from the calming, meditative aspects of shooting in nature.

We discuss responsible photography practices that protect the landscapes we love, the impact of visual storytelling on conservation efforts, and how immersing yourself in the outdoors with a camera can be a form of therapy.

Whether you're looking to make a difference with your photos or simply find peace behind the lens, this episode is for you. Tune in and reconnect with nature—one frame at a time.

Episode Promos

Promos featured in this episode include:

• Narrative AI Culling, Editing, and Publishing - https://narrative.so/select?affiliate=casey2746
• ON1 Photo RAW All-In-One Photo Editor - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/on1
• Elementor Website Builder - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/elementor
• Siteground Web Hosting - https://www.siteground.com/go/nerdy

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://caseyfatchettphotography.pic-time.com/art
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/nerdy-photographer
• If you’re feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

Jake Case is a photographer and writer based in Arizona, specializing in nature, landscape, storm, and architectural photography. Through his work, he explores the intersections of human history and the natural world, with a focus on storytelling and capturing the beauty of both the built and natural environments. He’s the co-author of the book “Arizona: A Photographic Journey” and also shares his experiences on his blog, Mountain Tripper.

You can find Jake on his website - https://www.mountaintripper.com/ - or on Instagram - https://instagram.com/jakecasephoto

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com 

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

In a world where smartphones come with portrait modes and AI can auto-enhance your images, it’s easy to assume that mastering the technical side of photography is becoming less important. But despite all the convenience technology offers, having a strong foundation in technical knowledge remains essential for anyone who wants to move beyond “good enough” and consistently create impactful, high-quality images.

Understanding the fundamentals—things like exposure, shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and white balance—gives you full control over your camera and your creative process. Rather than relying on auto settings and hoping for the best, you can anticipate how to adjust to different lighting conditions, fast-moving subjects, or tricky compositions. It’s the difference between reacting and creating intentionally. Technical expertise empowers you to make choices that align with your artistic vision.

It also opens doors to more advanced techniques. Whether it’s long-exposure night photography, off-camera flash setups, or medium format film, technical know-how expands your creative toolbox. You’ll be able to troubleshoot problems quickly and adapt on the fly, which is especially critical in fast-paced situations like weddings, events, or documentary work where there are no do-overs. The more you understand the mechanics of your tools, the more seamlessly you can bring your ideas to life.

Moreover, being technically proficient makes you a more confident communicator with clients, collaborators, and even other creatives. You’ll be able to explain why certain approaches are better for a shoot, or how specific lighting setups will impact the final result. That professionalism can set you apart in a crowded industry and help build trust with the people you work with. Clients don’t just hire a camera—they hire your experience and expertise.

So yes, the gear may be getting smarter—but that doesn’t mean you can skip the learning. Technical knowledge is still the backbone of great photography. When combined with creativity and vision, it’s what transforms a good photo into a great one. Understanding the “why” behind what you do isn’t just optional—it’s what makes your work truly stand out.

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Get some Merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's photography work at https://caseyfphoto.com

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

Want to take your photography and your business to the next level? It’s not always about buying the latest gear - sometimes, it’s the little-known tricks and techniques that make the biggest difference.

In this episode, we’re revealing some photography secrets that can instantly improve your work and how you run your business. 

Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, there's something in this episode that will change the way you shoot. Tune in and start capturing your best work yet!

Episode Promos

This episode contains promos for:

• Elementor Wordpress Website Builder - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/elementor
• Aftershoot AI Culling - https://aftershoot.com/explore/?ref=nerdyphoto10
• Siteground Website Hosting - https://www.siteground.com/go/nerdy

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://caseyfatchettphotography.pic-time.com/art
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/nerdy-photographer
• If you’re feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

Fred Agho is a Houston-based commercial and portrait photographer who started his journey capturing his collegiate football teammates. His passion for photography has grown into a talent for creating striking portraits that feel authentic and deeply connected.

Drawing from his own life experiences, Fred brings a unique perspective to his work, capturing people in a way that feels natural and true to who they are. His ability to connect with his subjects and tell their stories visually has made him a sought-after name in the industry.

With an impressive client list that includes FUJIFILM, Publix, SNKR App, Amazon, and Premium Goods, Fred has built a reputation for delivering high-quality, impactful imagery. Each project sharpens his skills and expands his creative vision, resulting in a portfolio filled with compelling and memorable images.

You can see Fred's work at his website - https://www.fujifred.com or on Instagram https://instagram.com/@FREDAGHO

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com 

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

For years, Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom have dominated the photo editing world, setting the gold standard for photographers and digital artists. However, in today’s creative landscape, more photographers are seeking alternatives - whether to avoid subscription fees, find a workflow that better fits their style, or explore new editing tools.

If you're looking for powerful alternatives that rival (or even exceed) Adobe's offerings in some areas, Capture One, ON1 Photo RAW, and Luminar Neo should be on your radar. Let’s dive into how these platforms stack up and why they might be a great fit for your photography workflow.

Ultimately, the "best" choice depends on your needs, editing style, and budget. If you need the absolute best RAW processing and studio-level control, Capture One is unbeatable. If you want a Photoshop + Lightroom replacement without ongoing fees, ON1 Photo RAW is a strong pick. And if you want creative edits in minutes without a learning curve, Luminar Neo is a powerhouse.

Pro Tip: Many of these platforms offer free trials — so download a few, test them out, and see which one fits your creative flow!

Click on the links below to learn more about and try the photo editing platforms mentioned in this episode:

Capture One - https://www.captureone.com/

ON1 Photo RAW - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/on1 (Use discount code NERDYPHOTO20 to save 20% on your purchase or subscription)

Luminar NEO - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/luminar (Use discount code NERDYPHOTO to save $10 on your purchase or subscription)

Darktable - https://www.darktable.org

GIMP - https://www.gimp.org/

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://caseyfatchettphotography.pic-time.com/art
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/nerdy-photographer
• If you’re feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com 

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

All photographers dream of creating amzing, meaningful work - but let’s be real, the bills also need to get paid. They're not going away just because we want to spend our time creating art. So how do you find the balance between pursuing your creative passion and running a profitable photography business?

In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, we dive into the struggle of staying inspired while still managing to keep the lights on. We discuss how to carve out time for personal work, attract paying clients who align with your style, and avoid the burnout that comes from only shooting for a paycheck.

This episode contains promos for:

• Elementor Wordpress Website Builder - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/elementor
• Narrative AI Culling, Editing, and Publishing - https://narrative.so/select?affiliate=casey2746
• Siteground Website Hosting - https://www.siteground.com/go/nerdy
• Let's Be Real Unposed Photography Prompts - https://nerdyphotographer.com/lets-be-real

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://caseyfatchettphotography.pic-time.com/art
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
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Arica Lipp is a multi award winning portrait, dance, and headshot photographer based in Montana. Her work reflects her Education in fine art as well as dance. When she picks up her camera she is creating art as well as capturing moments. She has now become a passionate speaker and educator who encourages photographers to be true to their inner genius and value their talents. "Some choose this as an outlet for their creativity and expression while others make this their career. For me it has been both. I've learned that with a Conscious effort to balance them, you don't have to sacrifice one for the other." She recently won the pro prints invitational and that experience reminded her that There's always more art within you waiting to be brought into the world. So she says to "be brave and just give them the Opportunity to exist."

You can see more of her work on her website - https://www.aricalipp.com - or on Instagram https://instagram.com/aricalipp (The Dancing Photographer)

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com 

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact