Advertise on podcast: Let's Create With Alex Blake

This week on the podcast I’m sitting down with Ean Cuenca (@cuenca.creative) and this conversation is SO good if you’ve ever felt stuck, overlooked, or confused about showing up online. Ean shares how he approaches social media as storytelling instead of just posting… and how that shift completely changes the way people connect with your work. We talk about what people get wrong about content, why chasing bookings without building relationships first doesn’t work, and what it actually looks like to create connection through a screen. This isn’t about hacks or trends. It’s about intention, people, and telling stories that make someone feel something. If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing “everything right” but it’s not converting, this episode will give you a fresh perspective and a more grounded way to approach your content. We also get into what Ean is planning for his guided shoot at Photo Camp :) You can follow along with Ean at @cuenca.creative _______ 🎉MENTORSHIPS If you’re craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET’S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com

This episode is all about networking… but not in the weird or forced “hand out business cards” kind of way. I’m sitting down with Noella, who somehow knows EVERYONE lol. When she came to Charleston, we grabbed lunch and she already knew so many of my photographer friends. Then at WPPI, it felt like every person we ran into knew her too. So I had to ask… how?? In this episode, we’re breaking down what networking actually looks like in the photography world, what people get wrong about it, and how to build real relationships that don’t feel fake or transactional. We talk about what to do when you walk into a conference or retreat and don’t know anyone, how to follow up after meeting people, and how to actually turn those first interactions into genuine friendships. We also get into why this matters more than you think. Not just for your business, but for your experience in this industry as a whole. If you’ve ever wanted to put yourself out there more but didn’t really know how to do it in a way that feels natural, this one’s for you :) Connect with Noella: @noellaandres _______ 🎉MENTORSHIPS If you’re craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET’S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com

What does it really take to pivot and grow a photography business? In this episode, I’m sitting down with @paigesmithphoto, who attended the very first Photo Camp, and it’s honestly so special to see how far she’s come since then. We’re talking about what her business looked like back when she came to that first camp, when she was primarily shooting seniors, and how that has evolved into building a wedding photography business. We chat bookings, automations, pricing, creativity, and community. If you’re in a season of growth, pivoting your niche, or trying to figure out your next step, this conversation will give ya some encouragement :) LET’S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com

If you’ve ever felt like you’re supposed to have your “niche” figured out already… this one’s for you. In this episode, I’m talking all about how to actually figure out what kind of photographer you want to be. Not based on what’s trending, what other people are doing, or what looks good online, but what genuinely fits you! I’m sharing a bit of my own journey, what it looked like when I was shooting everything, and how I started to recognize what I actually enjoyed (and what I didn’t). We’ll walk through the difference between being good at something vs wanting to build a business around it, signs you might be finding your lane, and a few questions you can ask yourself if you’re feeling stuck. If you’re in that phase of trying everything, second guessing yourself, or feeling behind… you’re not. You’re right where you’re supposed to be. Rate and review the pod pls!!!! _______ https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com

LETS TALK MONEYYY!! CEO of Kickstart Accounting, Danielle Hayden, joins the show to talk about what it actually looks like to pay yourself consistently, set healthier boundaries, and build a business that supports your life instead of burning you out. We chat about why money feels so emotional for creatives, when to move on to being an S Corp instead of LLC, and the small, realistic shifts that can help you feel more confident with your numbers without living in spreadsheets. If you love what you do but feel stuck financially, this episode is for you. _______ 🎉MENTORSHIPS If you’re craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET’S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 y Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com

Senior rep teams can be powerful when they’re built with intention, structure, and real community. In this episode, I’m joined by @kelseymarie.photo to talk through what it actually looks like to run a successful senior rep team. We dive into how she structures her pricing, builds genuine community for the girls on her team, and teaches her reps how to market for her in a way that feels natural and aligned. We also cover the mindset photographers need before starting a rep team, common misconceptions, and how rep teams can impact your brand and bookings long term. If you’re thinking about starting a senior rep team or refining one you already have, this episode is packed with honest insight and practical takeaways. DON’T FORGET! 🎙️ Rate, review & subscribe to the pod to stay inspired + support the show! _______ 🎉MENTORSHIPS If you’re craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET’S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com

Modeling, confidence, and the photographer experience — this convo is a good one :) Model Bella Davison is here to chat about what actually makes someone feel comfortable, confident, and respected in front of the camera. Bella shares what photographers are doing right, what doesn’t work, and how small changes can completely shift the energy on set. We get into direction that actually helps, plus advice for photographers who feel awkward or unsure when posing people. Whether you’re working with professional models, friends, or first time clients, this episode is full of practical reminders that the experience matters just as much as the final images. DON’T FORGET! 🎙️ Rate, review, and subscribe to the pod to stay inspired and support the show! _______ 🎉MENTORSHIPS My 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET’S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves (CHANGING TENT!!!): https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com

What it actually looks like to open and run a photography studio. Alex talks with @annalaurasommer, photographer and owner of @shinestudio.chs, about the shift from photographer to studio owner and everything that comes with it. Anna Laura shares how she first got started in photography, what her business looked like before a studio was even on her radar, and the moment she realized her role was changing. They talk through the decision to open a physical studio, what made her feel ready to take that step, and the fears that came up before opening the doors. The conversation gets into the real day to day of studio ownership, including admin, scheduling renters, + communication. Anna Laura also shares what surprised her most, what she wishes she had known earlier, and what she would tell someone thinking about opening a studio in their own area. If you’ve ever thought about opening a studio or felt the pull toward the business owner side of photography, this episode offers an honest look behind the scenes. DON’T FORGET! 🎙️ Rate, review & subscribe to the pod to stay inspired + support the show! _______ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com 🎉MENTORSHIPS If you’re craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET’S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/

I'm chattin' with @lindseycrawfordphoto to talk honestly about what it really looks like to transition into full time photography. From navigating burnout and slow seasons to building community and trusting yourself when nothing feels “official,” this conversation is real, practical, and soooo good to listen to if you want to become a full time photographer! DON’T FORGET! 🎙️ Rate, review & subscribe to the pod to stay inspired + support the show! _______ 🎉MENTORSHIPS If you’re craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET’S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com

Scott Proposki has photographed for National Geographic, Sports Illustrated, HBO, the White House, and so many massive brands and teams, and then experienced a complete business and identity reset when the pandemic hit. We talk about what it’s really like to lose momentum after building something big, how identity can quietly get wrapped up in our work, and why sustainable success for photographers has so much more to do with leadership, clarity, and problem solving than just “good photos.” Scott shares the behind the scenes of rebuilding from scratch, why comparison can derail even the most experienced creatives, and how focusing on one thing (instead of 32 ideas at once 🙃) can change everything. If you’re a photographer who feels stuck, overwhelmed, burnt out, or just unsure of what the next step should be, this episode is such an encouraging reminder that your story, your experience, and your perspective actually matter more than you think. This one is full of mindset shifts, practical wisdom, and a lot of “oh wow, I needed that” moments. You’re going to love Scott and the heart behind what he’s building. _______ 🎉MENTORSHIPS If you’re craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET’S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com DON’T FORGET! 🎙️ Rate, review & subscribe to the pod to stay inspired + support the show!

I'm sitting down with my friend Emmy for such a fun and meaningful conversation about creativity, connection, and shooting couples in a way that actually feels like them!!! We talk about her journey to finding a cinematic style she truly loves, how film and movies shaped her eye, and the moment things finally clicked after years of experimenting and second guessing. We also get into why weddings feel so sacred to her, how her faith influences the way she photographs love, and how being a bride herself completely shifted the way she approaches wedding days now. This conversation is full of heart, encouragement, and so many little mindset shifts that honestly just make you want to go create!!! If you're a photographer who wants to shoot with more confidence, tell better stories, and create work that feels meaningful instead of trendy, this episode is for you!!! 💛 _______ 🎉MENTORSHIPS If you're craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET'S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com DON'T FORGET! 🎙️ Rate, review & subscribe to the pod to stay inspired + support the show!

I'm sitting down with Abbey for a really honest conversation about motherhood, comparison, and running a creative business in a new season of life. Abbey was on the podcast before becoming a mom, and so much has shifted since then! We talk about how motherhood reshapes not just your schedule or workflow, but how you see yourself as a person and a creative. This conversation isn't about having it all figured out, but about navigating change, releasing expectations, and redefining success in a season that looks very different than before. If you're a photographer who's a mom, becoming one, or simply feeling tension between who you were and who you're becoming, this episode is for you. _______ 🎉MENTORSHIPS If you're craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET'S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com DON'T FORGET! 🎙️ Rate, review & subscribe to the pod to stay inspired + support the show!

Today I'm chatting with Sue (@sue.shutterbug) to talk honestly about what it looks like to build a profitable and sustainable senior photography business. We cover everything from the importance of community and client relationships to creating a standout senior experience that actually supports your income. Sue shares how shifting to in-person sales changed her business, how she thinks about the full client journey, and what profitability really means beyond just revenue numbers. We also dive into mindset shifts that matter, including the 80/20 rule, intentional income dips, niche marketing, and how to communicate value without overextending yourself or burning out. You'll hear us reference Jen throughout this conversation as well - If you want to connect with her, you can find her on Instagram at @jenrenpro. If you love senior photography but feel stuck between staying busy and building something sustainable, this conversation will give you clarity, encouragement, and practical perspective :) _______ 🎉MENTORSHIPS If you're craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET'S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com DON'T FORGET! 🎙️ Rate, review & subscribe to the pod to stay inspired + support the show!

I asked photographers to send in their most awkward photoshoot moments… the ones no one posts, the ones that still make you cringe, and the ones that remind you we're all human. And I'm reading them exactly as they were sent to me. From saying the wrong thing, to calling a client the wrong name, to moments that were awkward, uncomfortable, or straight up chaotic — this episode is all storytelling and no shame. If you've ever walked away from a shoot replaying something in your head thinking "why did I say that," this one's for you. Follow @alexblakephoto and subscribe if you want more convos like this - and if you have an awkward story of your own, send it my way for a future episode 🤍 _______ 🎉MENTORSHIPS If you're craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET'S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com DON'T FORGET! 🎙️ Rate, review & subscribe to the pod to stay inspired + support the show!

It's the first episode of the year!!! YAY! I'm kicking things off with a casual, honest conversation with my friend Maegan (@maegangrendellphoto) about the things we're officially leaving in 2025. We're talking about habits, expectations, and mindsets we picked up over the years that just don't make sense to carry into a new year. As photographers and business owners, it's easy to hold onto things out of fear, pressure, or "this is how it's always been done" thinking, and we get real about what we're choosing to let go of instead. This episode feels like sitting on the couch talking it out, not a list of resolutions or a big motivational speech. Just a real conversation to start the year feeling lighter, more clear headed, and reminded that you don't have to bring everything with you into what's next. _______ 🎉MENTORSHIPS If you're craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/services LET'S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephoto TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/Alexblakephoto Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotography STUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeotto Pass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referral AI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexotto HoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263 Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/ PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com DON'T FORGET! 🎙️ Rate, review & subscribe to the pod to stay inspired + support the show!