Advertise on podcast: My Creative Journey with Mike Jeffrey

Sophie Kietzmann is a New York based fashion and portrait photographer who has worked with Vanity Fair, GQ, Glamour & Vogue Italia. Working across high-end fashion and editorial spaces, they create bold, inclusive imagery that challenges traditional beauty standards and elevates underrepresented voices. In this episode, Sophie joins Mike to unpack one of the biggest unspoken issues in the creative industry… why so many photographers feel stuck, overworked and still struggle to make money. They dive into the toxic hustle culture that glorifies burnout and unpack the “starving artist” mindset that keeps photographers playing small. Sophie shares how learning business completely changed their career and the real reason creatives feel guilty charging for their work. This is a conversation about identity, money, fear and what it actually takes to build a sustainable photography career, without losing yourself in the process. If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything right but still not getting ahead, this episode will challenge the way you think about success, creativity and what it really means to make it as a photographer. Say Hi to Sophie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophiekietzmann/ Sophie's Website: https://www.sophiekietzmann.com/ In this episode we also talk about: - Why photographers feel guilty charging for their work - The starving artist mindset in photography - Why photographers overwork and burn out - Overcoming fear of rejection as a photographer - Why photographers feel stuck in their business - The mindset shift photographers need to grow - Why talent alone won’t make you successful as a photographer Thanks again for watching and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to Subscribe and leave a Comment to let us know you were here! Check out the Podcast in Audio form at https://www.mikejeffrey.co/podcast Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/ Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/ Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

No guest this week, just me and a bunch of questions every photographer needs to reflect on at some point. Some of them are going to feel a bit confronting. Some of them you'll laugh at because you'll recognise yourself in the answer. But hopefully a few of them might just change the way you think about where your photography career is heading. Starting with inversion thinking. Basically, what would you have to do to guarantee your photography career failed? And look, the answers are kind of obvious. Never post your work. Never reply to enquiries. Make it impossible for people to book you. Surround yourself with people who are comfortable staying average. Pretty obvious stuff, right? Until you sit there and go, hang on, I'm actually doing some of these things right now. From there we get into some bigger questions. What would you do if you knew the outcome was guaranteed? Do you actually like your own work or do you just hope other people will? And who are the five people you spend the most time with, and are they growth minded people or are they quietly keeping you exactly where you are? This episode is for photographers who are just starting out and those who have been at it for a few years and have that nagging feeling that something needs to change. The answers are already in you. Sometimes you just need someone to ask the questions out loud. Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram | Mike's TikTok

Kenny Macieira is the Host of Kickin It With Creatives Podcast. In this episode he chats with Mike about one of the most underrated marketing strategies, starting a podcast. Kenny didn't come from a podcasting background. He stumbled into it through a client then spent months watching others record in the studio he was running until he eventually had no excuse not to start his own show. In a world where attention is everything, podcasting might just be the most valuable marketing tool a creative business owner has ever had access to but most people won't start one. In this episode, Kenny pulls back the curtain on what the first year of podcasting really looks like. The random Instagram DMs, the inconsistency, the self-doubt and why pushing through it anyway is exactly what separates the creatives who grow from the ones who don't. Grab the FREE Podcasting Cheat Sheet: mikejeffrey.co/podcast-cheat-sheet Say Hi to Kenny on Instagram Check out Kenny's Podcast - Kickin It With Creatives YouTube | Spotify | Instagram In this episode, you'll learn: - How to start a podcast with no audience and no experience - Ways to find your first podcast guests when nobody knows who you are - What equipment you actually need to start a podcast - How to grow a podcast on YouTube and Instagram - How to stay consistent with your podcast when motivation runs out - Secrets for structuring a podcast episode that keeps people watching - How to pitch yourself to guests and actually get a reply Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram | Mike's TikTok Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/ Music Created by JWPATON

Claire Darwish is the founder of Gallery Lane Magazine and in this episode she breaks down why so many photographers are attracting the wrong clients. Before she was teaching marketing, Claire was fully booked, shooting 15 to 20 family photography sessions a week. On paper, it looked like success. Six figures within months, constant inquiries and a calendar that never stopped. But behind the scenes she was editing until 2am, replying to emails in the car and missing time with her kids while on family holidays because she couldn't switch off. She had built momentum, but it was pulling her away from the reason she started in the first place. In this conversation, we unpack the real reason photographers end up overworked or attracting the wrong clients. We talk about the trap of copying trends, chasing reach, and creating content for the algorithm instead of speaking directly to your ideal client. Claire shares how defining her ideal client changed her systems, communication style, inquiry process and marketing strategy. We explore why your ideal client is often a reflection of your values, how shared beliefs matter more than demographics, and why clarity is the difference between being busy and being fulfilled. If you have ever felt stuck chasing trends, growing on Instagram but not booking the right people or wondering why your content isn't converting, this episode will help you recalibrate. Claire's Instagram | Gallery Lane Instagram Sign up for Gallery Lane Magazine  Claire's Website  Listen to Mike's Interview with Claire on Tog Royalty In this episode we discuss: • How to define your ideal client as a photographer • Why copying Instagram trends attracts the wrong clients • Photography marketing strategies that convert into real bookings • The difference between Instagram reach and attracting aligned clients • How viral content can hurt your brand positioning • Overbooking, burnout, and the hidden cost of being fully booked • Setting boundaries and building sustainable systems in your photography business • Hands off vs hands on clients and how to market differently to each • Building a photography business that supports your life, not consumes it Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram | Mike's TikTok Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/ Music Created by JWPATON

Laura Shepherd is a wedding photographer, flash enthusiast and educator based in Portland, Oregon known for her bold, editorial style and refreshingly simple approach to off camera flash. In this episode, we go deep into flash photography and break down why so many photographers overcomplicate it. Laura shares how she learned flash early in her career, why she believes light is creative rather than technical and intimidating and how simplifying education has become part of her mission. We also dive into her journey from working in marketing at Nike, to becoming a corporate flight attendant, to discovering photography during 2020 and completely changing her life. She talks openly about imposter syndrome, burnout, social media, and what it means to be an introvert building community online. If flash has ever confused you, intimidated you, or felt overly technical, this conversation will help you rethink it completely. Laura's Off Camera Flash Guide: https://www.laurashepherdimages.com/product-page/master-guide-to-off-camera-flash Say Hi to Laura on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurashepherdimages/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@laura_shepherd_images Sign up for updates from Laura about new courses & guides: https://mailchi.mp/09a9bef98304/laura-shepherd-images-email-list In this episode we talk about: - Why flash doesn’t have to look flashy - How to actually understand aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and flash working together - The biggest mistakes photographers make when learning flash - Why copying someone else’s settings will never work - TTL vs manual on real wedding days - How to recognise flash in other people’s work - Using higher apertures like f/8, f/11 or even f/14 for that editorial look - When one flash is enough and when two lights make sense - How to get comfortable moving your flash off camera Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/ Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/ Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Gunawan has built a strong name for himself in Astrophotography. He runs in person workshops, he has worked with major brands and now he is asking a bigger question…. How do you turn everything you’ve learned into something you can sell? In this episode, Mike and G unpack what it really looks like to move into photography education. Not some fake polished version, but the real version with doubts, imposter syndrome and the fear that you're not ready yet. G shares his goal of launching an astrophotography course and expanding into workshops as Mike talks through the exact hurdles he is facing right now. Automation, Platforms, Pricing, Confidence, Audience expectations. All of it is in this episode. We want to show you that you do not need to be the best to teach. You only need to be a few steps ahead of the person you are helping. But you have to be willing to put yourself out there and learn as you go. This episode is not a polished masterclass. It's just two photographers and friends figuring it out in public. If you have ever thought about teaching, launching a course, or running workshops, this episode is for you. Join the waitlist for Gunawan's Astrophotography Course: https://red-imagination-photography.kit.com/880d1a3724 Tourhero x Gunawan Bali Photography Tour 2026: https://www.tourhero.com/en/epic-adventures/indonesia/the-island-illuminated-a-bali-photography-journey-with-g-gunawan-280333558 Connect with Gunawan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/red_imagination_adventure/ Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/ Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/ Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Photographers should niche down, choose one style and stick to it! Sounds familiar right. But what if you enjoy a lot of different things? In this episode, I’m joined by Chihiro Yanagi to talk about creativity, identity and why doing everything can actually bring more joy and success. Creativity should feel enjoyable. It shouldn’t feel like a test you’re constantly failing. This isn’t a conversation about ignoring advice or doing things the wrong way. It’s about trusting where you are and giving yourself room to grow. Chihiro also shares the story of how she found photography unexpectedly lonely when she moved from Japan to Australia. This led her to start Senpo, a photo walk community designed to help people find others to create with. It started as a simple post asking if anyone wanted to go for a photo walk. What followed truly surprised her. Say Hi to Chihiro on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/picsbychii/ Keep up to date with SENPO Photowalks https://www.instagram.com/senpo.photowalk/ Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/ Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/ Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Gavin Blue OAM is the founder and current president of Heartfelt Australia New Zealand, a volunteer run charity that provides free professional photography to families experiencing stillbirth, terminal illness, or life threatening conditions in children. Since its founding, Heartfelt has grown to more than 300 volunteer photographers and has supported over 19,500 families across Australia and New Zealand. In addition to his photographic work, Gavin has been a long standing leader within the photography industry, previously serving as president of the Australian Commercial and Media Photographers association and contributing to national photographic awards and professional standards. In recognition of his service to the community through Heartfelt, Gavin was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2019. In this episode, Gavin shares reflections from three decades behind the camera, what photography has taught him about purpose, and how personal loss led to the creation of one of Australia’s most impactful photography charities. Volunteer/Donate with Heartfelt - https://heartfelt.org.au/get-involved Say Hi to Gavin: Website - https://www.gavinblue.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gavinbluephoto/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/gavinbluephoto/ Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/ Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/ Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Cailee Maeve is a Wedding, Couples & Family Photographer known for her cinematic style and her honest approach to storytelling through photography. In this episode, we talk about why candid photography is one of the most misunderstood concepts in photography, and why many so called candid photos are far more directed than photographers like to admit. We talk through the difference between candid, documentary, cinematic, and storytelling photography, why these styles often get confused, and how photographers can figure out which approach actually suits them instead of copying trends or hiding behind buzzwords. Cailee also opens up about her journey back into photography, how motherhood reshaped the way she sees moments and memory and why she feels more aligned shooting emotional, story driven work rather than trying to be completely hands off. Later in the conversation, we dive into her recent growth on Instagram, what it feels like to suddenly have more eyes on your work, how she deals with criticism and pushback online, and how she is learning to stay true to her style while stepping into teaching and education. Say Hi to Cailee Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/caileemaevephotography Website - https://www.caileemaevephotography.com Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/ Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/ Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Photographers don't fail because they lack talent. They fail because of the patterns they fall into under pressure. In this episode, Mike breaks down seven personality traits that can quietly hold your photography business back, even when you are working hard and doing “all the right things.” This isn't a conversation about cameras, presets or marketing hacks. It's about waiting for permission before acting, relying on motivation instead of discipline and letting your money anxiety drive decisions. If your photography business feels stuck, this episode offers a different place to look. Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Podcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mycreativepodcast/ Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/

This is a recap of conversations that stuck with me this year and quietly shaped how I think about photography, work and growth. Instead of short highlight clips I’ve pulled longer excerpts from full length podcast conversations so you can actually sit with the ideas and not just skim past them. Across these conversations, I kept hearing the same things come up. Self doubt, even when things are going well. The pressure to move faster rather than do it sustainably. Others just burnout from trying to do everything at once. None of these conversations are neat or perfectly finished but I hope they're snapshots of people in the middle of figuring things out and learning in real time. If you’ve been feeling behind, questioning your pace, or wondering whether you’re doing this the right way, I hope this episode reminds you that not having it all figured out doesn’t mean you’re failing. Most of the time, it just means you’re still learning. LINKS TO FULL EPISODES: Divya (S03 E02) – https://youtu.be/iJ_MWrsGO-Y Sam (S03 E03) – https://youtu.be/XV_oGAxom14 Travis (S03 E13) – https://youtu.be/8JllschYoqM Natasha (S03 E08) – https://youtu.be/7yPolIo23-8 Alex & Britt (S03 E10) – https://youtu.be/WX2Bv0DU1dE Cass (S04 E03) – https://youtu.be/z21keVd9Mh4 LINKS TO GUESTS: Divya Gordon - https://www.instagram.com/divyagordonfilm/ Sam Cousins - https://www.instagram.com/samcshoots/ Travis Hayto - https://www.instagram.com/travishayto/ Natasha Simpson - https://www.instagram.com/dawnphotography.com.au/ Alex & Britt Hall - https://www.instagram.com/chasingsunsetsllc/ Cass Edwards - https://www.instagram.com/cassandraedwards_/ Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/ Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/ Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Isabella Alexis, Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year 2023, joins Mike to reflect on what really happens after you win the award you always dreamed of. At just 17, Isabella achieved a milestone many photographers chase for decades, but the moment didn’t bring instant clarity or certainty. Instead, it opened the door to deeper questions about purpose, patience, and what success actually looks like when the excitement fades. In this episode, Isabella shares the quiet reality of life after winning an award, how returning to the same work and showing up day after day shaped her creative identity and why paying attention to small moments matters more than chasing validation. Together they explore awards, burnout, faith, creativity, and building a sustainable creative life rooted in meaning rather than momentum. This conversation is a reminder that winning is rarely the end of the story, and often just the beginning. Say Hi to Isabella Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/byisabellaalexis Website: https://www.isabellaalexis.com Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/ Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/ Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Mike is joined by his wife Emily for an honest conversation about the jokes, snarky comments, and quiet assumptions creatives often face at Christmas, especially when photography or creative work is not seen as a real job. Together they unpack why these comments happen, why they hurt more than criticism online, and how insecurity and generational ideas about work often sit underneath it all. Emily brings insight from her background as a trained social worker with experience in mental health, helping frame these conversations with empathy and practical perspective. They also share ways to prepare for family gatherings, handle comments in the moment, and protect your energy during a season that can feel emotionally heavy. They also share practical ways to prepare for family gatherings, handle uncomfortable conversations in the moment, and protect your energy during a season that can feel emotionally loaded. This episode is for anyone who wants to get through the holidays without having to justify their career or feel small for choosing a creative path. If you are a photographer or creative who feels anxious about seeing family over the holidays, this episode is for you. Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/ Emily's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theinfluencerswife/ ------------------------------------------------ Australia – Mental Health & Crisis Support   Emergency CALL 000 — If you or someone else is in immediate danger   24/7 Crisis Support Lifeline — 13 11 14 Suicide Call Back Service — 1300 659 467 Beyond Blue — 1300 22 4636   Disclaimer This podcast is intended for general information, reflection, and discussion only. The content shared reflects personal opinions and lived experiences and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified mental health professional or healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your mental health or wellbeing.   Listener discretion is advised. If you find any content distressing, please prioritise your wellbeing and seek appropriate support.   If you are in Australia and need immediate support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you are elsewhere, please reach out to your local crisis or emergency service.

Gemma Higlett, Floral Designer, Stylist, and trained Marketer, joins Mike to unpack the marketing secrets every creative should know. They dive into why showing your face matters more than perfect work, how authenticity builds a stronger brand than aesthetics, and why sharing the messy middle of your journey is often the most powerful marketing you can do. Gemma talks about her transition from corporate PR and marketing into the creative world, the fears she had around being seen, and how learning to show up online transformed her business. Together they explore practical marketing strategies creatives can put into action immediately, from getting over the fear of posting, to understanding what actually drives connection, to pricing your work with confidence instead of scarcity. They break down why so many creatives get stuck waiting for perfection, how to get real feedback from clients, and why relationships and collaboration will always outperform trying to build a business alone. Whether you are a photographer, florist, stylist or any kind of creative business owner, this episode will help you rethink your marketing, show up more consistently, and finally understand how to build a brand people connect with. Say Hi to Gemma: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sub.subtle Website - https://www.subsubtle.com.au Party Stems Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/party.stems Party Stems Website - https://www.partystems.com.au Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/ Editing and Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/ Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/

Francisco Hernandez, Portrait Photographer and long time flash educator, joins Mike to unpack how photographers can build a signature style with flash photography. They explore the mindset behind creating consistent work, why flash gives you more control in unpredictable environments, and how understanding light can completely change the way you shoot. Francisco shares the early struggles that shaped his approach, the years spent experimenting with strobes and high speed sync, and the practical ways beginners can learn flash without feeling overwhelmed. Together they dive into style development, creative confidence, and why trying trends, even when they feel overdone, can still lead you toward your own unique look. Mike and Francisco break down how one light can transform an image, how to blend flash with natural elements, and why honest experimentation is the key to finding your voice. Whether you are new to off camera flash or looking to create a recognisable visual identity in your work, this episode will help you understand how flash can become the foundation of your signature style. Say Hi to Francisco: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@fjhphoto Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fjhphoto Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fjhphoto Website - https://www.fjhphoto.com/ Thanks for tuning in and if you did enjoy todays episode, make sure to leave a Rating or Review on your platform of choice. Check out the Video Podcast on YouTube Mike's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikejeffreyphoto/ Mike's TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mikejeffreyphoto/ Editing & Post Production by Mossy Heart Media https://www.www.mossyheartmedia.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/mossyheartmedia/ Music Created by JWPATON https://www.instagram.com/jwptn/