Send us a text

This SheClicks Women in Photography Podcast episode features US-based wedding photographer Vanessa Joy. Vanessa is a multi-award-winning photographer who likes to ensure clients have fun and blends classic imagery with photojournalism. She's also a popular speaker at events, a widely respected business coach, and a Canon USA Explorer of Light. 

With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Vanessa shares her journey from teaching Spanish to building a successful photography business.

Vanessa began her career working for her high school photography teacher, assisting with weekend weddings. This hands-on experience proved invaluable as she learned the ins and outs of the business. She then taught Spanish to pay the bills while growing her own photography side business. Once her photography income matched her teaching salary, Vanessa made the leap to photography full-time.

In the podcast, Vanessa discusses the importance of working for other photographers early on. She emphasizes soaking up as much knowledge as possible from more experienced photographers before launching one's own business. Vanessa also shares how she navigates client expectations, delivers storytelling albums and guides clients into natural-looking posed shots.

Vanessa also discusses finding a balance between shooting weddings and teaching. There's valuable advice for photographers at any stage, from starting out to growing a successful business over decades in the industry.

Connect with Vanessa
Website
Instagram
Facebook
Pinterest
Twitter
YouTube

Canon
This podcast is supported by Canon, a leading technology company founded in Japan in 1937. Canon is dedicated to helping people reimagine and push the boundaries of what is possible through imaging. Canon believes in living and working together for the common good to develop a better society and a more inclusive and equitable world.

Support the show