Wine Down and Focus: Photography Tips & Stories Over a Glass of Wine

🎙️ Wine Down and Focus with Annette & Christina

🍷 Where photography meets fun—sip, laugh, and learn with Annette and Christina!

📩 Subscribe & Get Your FREE Guide: "5 Ways to Get More Photography Clients"

In this episode, we’re talking honestly about imposter syndrome and why it can show up no matter how long you’ve been in business. We share our own struggles with comparison, perfectionism, learning new areas of photography, pricing our work, social media, and that little voice that likes to convince us everyone else has it figured out.

We also talk about reframing those thoughts, using affirmations and visualization, celebrating small wins, learning from failure, and taking action before you feel completely ready.

And this episode comes to you from somewhere a little different! We recorded at Stone Summit Steak & Seafood in Wentzville, Missouri, with a bottle of Malbec and their baked brie while chatting from the bar.

Stone Summit is also celebrating its 10th anniversary on August 23! If you’re local, stop by from 5–8 PM for complimentary appetizers and help them celebrate 10 years in Wentzville.

Our challenge for you this week: What’s one thing you’ve been avoiding because you don’t feel ready?

Do it anyway. Not perfectly. Just start.

Cheers! 🥂

Stone Summit Steakhouse:

https://stonesummitsteaks.com

FB: https://www.facebook.com/StoneSummitSteaks

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📷 Annette – Sundberg Photography
📷 Christina – Charisma Photography

🎙️ Wine Down and Focus with Annette & Christina

🍷 Where photography meets fun—sip, laugh, and learn with Annette and Christina!

📩 Subscribe & Get Your FREE Guide: "5 Ways to Get More Photography Clients"

Dive beneath the surface in this fascinating episode of Wind Down & Focus as we sit down with underwater photographer Caroline White. From photographing maternity sessions and personal branding to creating breathtaking fine art portraits beneath the water, Caroline shares what it really takes to master one of photography's most unique genres. 

We discuss:
 • How Caroline transitioned from actor headshots to underwater photography
 • The specialized camera housing, lenses, and gear required
 • Tips for lighting, camera settings, and editing underwater images
 • Working with clients who have never been underwater before
 • Why underwater photography requires patience, planning, and trust
 • Creative branding, maternity, and fine art concepts
 • Funny client stories and behind-the-scenes moments
 • Advice for photographers interested in trying underwater photography

Of course, we also kick off the episode by tasting an Italian Pinot Grigio and sharing food pairings perfect for summer before diving into photography talk.

Whether you're curious about underwater photography, love learning from experienced photographers, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind incredible images, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice.

So pour a glass, press play, and let’s Wine Down and Focus.

Learn more at www.CarolineWhitePhotography.com or follow along on Instagram at @carolinewphoto, @carolinewfineart, and @underwatermaternitybycaroline

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📷 Christina – Charisma Photography

Episode 23:  Would You Rather: Photographer Edition

🎙️ Wine Down and Focus with Annette & Christina

🍷 Where photography meets fun—sip, laugh, and learn with Annette and Christina!

📩 Subscribe & Get Your FREE Guide: "5 Ways to Get More Photography Clients"

 Welcome to Wine Down and Focus with Annette and Christina! Episode 23 gets a little chaotic in the best way possible as Annette and Christina play “Would You Rather: Photographer Edition.” From choosing between weddings or family sessions forever to debating natural light vs flash and toddlers vs teenage boys, this episode is packed with funny opinions, real photographer struggles and plenty of relatable moments.

The girls also share their thoughts on editing workflows, AI culling tools, favorite lenses, photography gear and why dads at family sessions might actually be harder than toddlers. Along the way they sip a bold Pandemonium Red Blend from Paso Robles and talk about pairing it with local BBQ from Duke’s BBQ Shack.

They also recap their recent experience at ShutterFest including favorite classes, photography friends, AI trends in the industry and their new Canon R5 Mark II camera upgrades.

This episode is relaxed, unfiltered and feels like hanging out with photographer friends on the patio with wine, dogs barking in the background and birds chirping overhead.

Grab a glass and join the conversation.

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📷 Annette – Sundberg Photography
📷 Christina – Charisma Photography

🎙️ Wine Down and Focus with Annette & Christina

🍷 Where photography meets fun—sip, laugh, and learn with Annette and Christina!

📩 Subscribe & Get Your FREE Guide: "5 Ways to Get More Photography Clients"

Episode 22: SEO, AI, and the Future of Photography Marketing with Jaimy Ellis

In this episode of Wine Down and Focus, we dive into SEO, AI, and how photographers are getting found online today.

We’re joined by Jamie Ellis, who breaks down how search is changing and what photographers need to do to stay visible.

We talk about SEO vs AEO, website mistakes, blogging strategies, and simple updates you can make right now to improve your online presence and attract more clients.

Jamie also shares how she adapted after a slow year and used AI to strengthen her marketing.

Plus, we kick things off with a wine review of a Kirkland Napa Valley Cabernet.

Grab a glass and let’s wind down and focus.

So pour a glass, press play, and let’s Wine Down and Focus.

Photobiz Referral Link: https://www.photobiz.com/sign-up?ref=48581

Jaimy Ellis Mentoring: https://www.jaimyellisphotog.com/for-photogs

PPI Focus Forward Event: https://www.ppiowa.com/PPI-Focus-Forward-26

Follow Jaimy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaimyellis.photog/

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📷 Annette – Sundberg Photography
📷 Christina – Charisma Photography

🎙️ Wine Down and Focus with Annette & Christina

🍷 Where photography meets fun—sip, laugh, and learn with Annette and Christina!

📩 Subscribe & Get Your FREE Guide: "5 Ways to Get More Photography Clients"

Episode 21: SYNC Conference Recap

In episode 21 of Wine Down & Focus, Annette and Christina are recapping their experience at the SYNC Conference in Destin, Florida. From photography education and networking to honest thoughts on whether the conference was worth the investment, they’re sharing what stood out most this year.

They talk about the sessions that made the biggest impact, including classes on AI for photographers, SEO, website improvements, constant light, creative filters, sports photography, and business growth. They also share how conferences can look different depending on where you are in your business, your energy level, and what you truly need from the experience.

Along the way, they review the wine for this episode, Quilt The Fabric of the Land, a Napa Valley red blend, and talk through the easy food pairings they enjoyed with it. They also touch on the value of photography friendships, protecting your time at conferences, and the importance of taking only what fits your business instead of trying to implement everything at once.

If you’ve ever wondered whether photography conferences are worth it, how AI is showing up in the photography world, or how to get inspired without burning yourself out, this episode is for you.

So pour a glass, press play, and let’s Wine Down and Focus.

Kristen Jones

Nathan Loker

Annie Marie

Craig Lee

Rita Ann Jana 

Steve Seifried

Sync Conference

Jaimy Ellis

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📷 Annette – Sundberg Photography
📷 Christina – Charisma Photography

🎙️ Wine Down and Focus with Annette & Christina

🍷 Where photography meets fun—sip, laugh, and learn with Annette and Christina!

📩 Subscribe & Get Your FREE Guide: "5 Ways to Get More Photography Clients"

In this episode of Wine Down & Focus, Annette and Christina break down what really changes between year one and year five as a photographer. From confidence and consistency to mindset, business growth, and problem-solving, we talk honestly about the learning curve, mistakes, and breakthroughs that only time and repetition can bring. If you’re early in your photography journey—or somewhere in the messy middle—this episode is a reminder that growth isn’t instant, and you’re not behind. Grab a glass, settle in, and let’s talk experience, patience, and progress behind the camera.

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📷 Annette – Sundberg Photography
📷 Christina – Charisma Photography

🎙️ Wine Down and Focus with Annette & Christina

🍷 Where photography meets fun—sip, laugh, and learn with Annette and Christina!

📩 Subscribe & Get Your FREE Guide: "5 Ways to Get More Photography Clients"

Welcome back to Wine Down & Focus! In Episode 19, we’re talking Business and Market Shifts in Photography for 2026—plus a few style trends we think you’ll be seeing more of this year.

Before we dive in, we’re sipping a California Syrah from Sonoma County (2022 North Coast Syrah by Jolie-Laide), and we break down the most delicious pairing: bacon-wrapped mushrooms + bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese. (Yes… it was as good as it sounds.) We also share our favorite “wine deal” honey hole: LastBottle.com—and how we snagged this $38 bottle for $17.

Then we get into the real topic:

• Why clarity is everything in 2026 (clients want simple, not 47 options)
• Consistency as the new luxury (style, communication, experience)
• The “specialist vs. multi-genre” debate (and what actually matters)
• Streamlined systems that create a better client experience
• Trends to watch: motion/cinematic feel, real light, real tone, and less “filtered” editing
• Why success might look quieter this year (and what to focus on instead)

Our 2026 vibe: Clarity, Consistency, Confidence.

Also—WE’RE LOOKING FOR GUESTS! If you have something to share with photographers, head to our website and fill out the guest form.

Cheers! 🥂

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📷 Annette – Sundberg Photography
📷 Christina – Charisma Photography

🎙️ Wine Down and Focus with Annette & Christina

🍷 Where photography meets fun—sip, laugh, and learn with Annette and Christina!

📩 Subscribe & Get Your FREE Guide: "5 Ways to Get More Photography Clients"

Episode 18: Your 2026 Photography Reset:  The Year-Ahead Checklist You’ll Thank Yourself For

The start of a new year can bring motivation and excitement, but it can also create decision overwhelm. In this episode of Wine Down & Focus, we walk photographers through a practical 2026 photography business reset designed to help you feel clear, organized, and prepared for the year ahead.

We talk through what to review, revise, and remove in your photography business, including pricing and packages, marketing efforts, workflow systems, and booking processes. This episode is not about doing everything at once, but about creating a plan that supports your time, energy, and income.

We dive into photography pricing strategy, looking at what consistently made money, what drained time with little return, and how to adjust your offers for today’s economy. We also cover photography marketing and SEO, including refreshing your website, client emails, guides, FAQs, and messaging so you are attracting the right clients.

You will hear tips on photography workflow systems, file organization, gear maintenance, and planning ahead for busy season, along with strategies for building repeat clients, asking for reviews at the right time, and creating more stability in your photography business.

As always, we are sipping wine while we chat. This episode features Mumm Napa Brut Rosé, an easy-to-find California sparkling wine that feels perfect for ringing in the new year.

A free 2026 photography checklist is linked in the show notes to help you work through these resets at your own pace.

New Year Checklist

So pour a glass, press play, and let’s Wine Down and Focus.

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📷 Annette – Sundberg Photography
📷 Christina – Charisma Photography

🎙️ Wine Down and Focus with Annette & Christina

🍷 Where photography meets fun—sip, laugh, and learn with Annette and Christina!

📩 Subscribe & Get Your FREE Guide: "5 Ways to Get More Photography Clients"

In this episode of Wine Down & Focus, Annette and Christina sip a 2019 Dierberg Pinot Noir and share a little love for Hermann, Missouri, before diving into how to build a thriving senior photography business without a model or rep team. They chat with internationally published portrait photographer Rita Ann Janna about how her business evolved from families to seniors across multiple states, why she chose not to run a model team (and how that decision protects teen confidence, includes guys, and fits her busy-client lifestyle), and how families naturally feed into a strong senior client base. Rita also shares her popular “Senior Session Plus” add-on for a pre-college family session, her intentional cap on the number of seniors she takes each year, and three core strategies for growth without a team: volunteering at school events, continuing to photograph families, and subtly repping your brand in everyday life. The episode wraps with a couple of hilarious wildlife-on-session stories (hello, bear and fox!) and a reminder that great senior photography is really about helping teens feel seen, confident, and truly themselves.

Rita Ann Jana:

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/RitaJanaPhotography

Website: https://www.ritajanaphotography.com

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📷 Annette – Sundberg Photography
📷 Christina – Charisma Photography

🎙️ Wine Down and Focus with Annette & Christina

🍷 Where photography meets fun—sip, laugh, and learn with Annette and Christina!

📩 Subscribe & Get Your FREE Guide: "5 Ways to Get More Photography Clients"

Episode 16: Finding the Perfect Photography Locations

Grab your glass and join Annette and Christina for episode 16 of Wine Down & Focus! This week, they’re diving into one of the most important parts of every session — choosing the perfect photography location. From city vibes and moody garages to soft golden fields and unexpected gems like car washes or coffee shops, they share their favorite ways to find, scout, and use each setting to tell a story.

They also review “Locations CA1 Red Blend” by Dave Finney — a California wine inspired by the art of blending across regions. (Spoiler: it pairs better on its own than with dinner!)

Whether you’re a photographer looking for fresh inspiration or just love hearing creative minds talk shop over wine, this episode will help you see every corner of your world as a potential backdrop.

Listen in and discover how to make ordinary spots look extraordinary.

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📷 Christina – Charisma Photography