In this episode, I sit down with Kara Marie Trombetta, a photographer who’s reshaping the way we think about boudoir. Her work is rooted in self-respect, real empowerment, and helping people feel truly seen—without all the old-school glamor filters. We talk about what it takes to evolve as an artist, especially when the world around you keeps shifting, and how Kara built a business that reflects her values, not just trends. It’s a raw, thoughtful conversation about identity, creativity, and staying grounded when everything feels up in the air. Plus, we get into the nitty-gritty of pivoting your business to stay afloat during those economic curveballs life throws at you. Join us as we explore Kara Marie's colorful perspective on identity, creativity, and what it truly means to find your voice!

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Kara Marie Trombetta: Shift Happens-The Art of the Pivot

Episode Number: 49

Publish Date: 16 May 2025

Episode Overview

In this episode, Kara Marie Trombetta and I dig into what boudoir photography really means beyond the surface-level stuff. Kara Marie shares how she’s redefined the experience—moving away from outdated ideas and turning it into something that celebrates honesty, confidence, and self-love. We talk about the emotional weight of self-portraiture, how it can crack you open in the best way, and why vulnerability is often the key to real growth. There’s also some straight talk about running a creative business in uncertain times and what it takes to keep evolving without losing your voice. It’s a real, honest conversation about showing up as yourself—and maybe helping others do the same.

Takeaways:

• Kara Marie Trombetta's photography is all about radical self-acceptance and reclaiming one's identity, redefining boudoir photography as a celebration of self.
• In a world where economic climates shift, pivoting your business is essential; adapt your offerings while staying true to your creative spirit.
• The emotional depth in photography emerges when artists connect with clients on a personal level, fostering genuine empowerment through the lens.
• Kara Marie emphasizes that authenticity in art comes from understanding and expressing your true self, beyond societal expectations or trends.
• Self-portraiture can be a journey of discovery, revealing parts of yourself you may not have fully embraced or understood before.
• It's crucial to break free from the pressures of conformity in the photography industry; every artist's voice deserves to be uniquely heard and celebrated.

Resources and Links

• WEBSITE: https://kara-marie.com/
• FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/karamariestudios
• INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/karamariestudios/

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Building a career around consistency is the name of the game, and nobody does it quite like Sandra Coan. With over 25 years in the photography world, she’s not just a family and newborn portrait photographer in Seattle, she’s an educator and author who’s all about using strobes for a natural light look. In this episode, we discuss how human connection fuels her work and why she believes that capturing the moment is more important than getting the technically perfect shot. We talk about her marketing methods and how any Creative can ditch the traditional marketing funnel for a better approach to finding clients. Sandra’s journey is a treasure trove of insights for both budding and seasoned photographers, filled with heartfelt stories and practical advice. So whether you're just starting out or have decades of experience, you’ll want to stick around for the wisdom that Sandra brings to the table.

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Flywheels Are Better Than Funnels

Episode Number: 48

Publish Date: 9 May 2025

Episode Overview

In this heartfelt episode of Generator, I sit down with the incredible Sandra Coan—an award-winning photographer, educator, and author with over 25 years in the industry. We dive deep into what it means to build a business rooted in consistency, authenticity, and trust. Sandra shares how she developed her signature flywheel marketing method, why “shoot and burn” needs to be retired, and how lighting and connection go hand-in-hand. We talk about overcoming burnout, ditching the funnel, trusting your creative instincts, and why newborn photographers deserve a louder voice in the industry. Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned pro, this conversation is packed with insight, honesty, and a few unexpected laughs.

Takeaways:

• Sandra Coan emphasizes the importance of consistency in building a sustainable photography career, highlighting that true happiness follows when you find joy in your work.
• In the podcast, Sandra shares how she uses a client-centered marketing approach, focusing on building trust over chasing sales, which is crucial for photographers.
• The conversation reveals that capturing genuine moments is more about paying attention than achieving technical perfection, especially while working with families and newborns.
• Sandra discusses her journey from a kindergarten teacher to an award-winning photographer, illustrating how her teaching background influences her approach to both photography and client interaction.
• Throughout the episode, the idea of ‘slow photography’ is explored, with Sandra explaining how shooting film forces her to be more methodical and present during sessions.
• The podcast highlights the underrepresented niche of newborn and family photography, with Sandra advocating for the value and artistry within this area of the industry.

Resources and Links

• WEBSITE: www.sandracoaneducation.com
• INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/sandracoan/

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Kristen Kidd is all about capturing the heart and soul of the human-pet bond, and she does it with style! This episode kicks off with her sharing her journey as a photographer, author, and magazine publisher, including the launch of her fabulous Dog Mom Magazine. We dive into the nitty-gritty of what it’s like to be a pet photographer—like, how do you get past the fear of failure or deal with difficult moments of grief? Kristen opens up about her background as a social worker and how that helps her connect with clients on a deeper level, making every session feel personal and meaningful. Plus, we explore the hilarious and sometimes chaotic world of working with dogs and how embracing imperfection can lead to some truly magical moments. So grab your pup, settle in, and get ready for some heartwarming insights and a few laughs along the way!

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Kristen Kidd: The Power of Pet Photography

Episode Number: 47

Publish Date: 2 May 2025

Episode Overview

Kristen Kidd, a Philadelphia-based photographer and author, opens up about her unique approach to capturing the essence of pet ownership in our latest episode. We dive headfirst into her journey, from being a social worker to launching Dog Mom Magazine, a publication that beautifully marries her love for photography and storytelling. It’s a deep dive into the world of dog lovers, with Kristen sharing her experiences of creating coffee table books dedicated to pet rescue, where every purchase supports a good cause.

Throughout our conversation, we touch on the nuances of fear in the creative process. Kristen discusses how she uses her background in social work to not only connect with her clients but also to help them embrace their vulnerabilities. We share laughs, stories, and perhaps a few too many dog puns as we explore how to navigate the chaos of life with our furry companions. This episode is a wonderful reminder that amidst the hustle and bustle, there’s always room for love, laughter, and the joy our pets bring into our lives. Tune in and discover how to find beauty in the imperfect and the power of storytelling through the lens of pet photography.

Takeaways:

• Kristen Kidd blends her social work experience with photography, capturing genuine pet-owner connections.
• Fear is a huge barrier for photographers, but embracing failure is key to growth and creativity.
• Dog Mom Magazine is a unique community platform celebrating the bond between dogs and their humans.
• Kristen's approach to photography emphasizes vulnerability and authenticity over perfection in her work.
• The conversations with clients often reveal deeper stories about their relationships with their pets, adding richness to the photography.
• Finding joy in the chaos of life, like dogs do, can lead to a more fulfilling and present existence.

Links referenced in this episode:

• dogmommagazine.com
• luxsummitstudio.com
• instagram.com/dog_mom_magazine
• instagram.com/lux_summit_studio
• instagram.com/kidd_loves_courageously

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Elena S. Blair is an absolute powerhouse in the photography world, and today we're having a conversation that's packed with wisdom for anyone looking to make their mark in the creative industry. We kick things off by exploring how Elena captures genuine connections in her family photography, a skill that sets her work apart and resonates deeply with her clients. She shares her journey through the ups and downs of building a successful business in this competitive landscape, emphasizing the importance of mindset and community. As we chat, we dig into the nitty-gritty of practical strategies like SEO, email marketing, and the role of AI in streamlining our workflow.

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Elena S. Blair: The Beauty of a Designer Life

Episode Number: 46

Publish Date: 25 April 2025

Episode Overview

Elena Blair is a family photographer based in Seattle, WA, and in this episode, we dive deep into the magic that happens when creativity meets business acumen.

Throughout the conversation, Elena emphasizes the importance of understanding what you want out of life to design a business that supports those dreams. She dives into the nitty-gritty of running a photography business, touching on everything from business metrics to the role of AI in marketing. Elena's candidness about the hard work required to build a successful business is refreshing, and her stories about her own students' successes highlight the effectiveness of her teachings. It's not just about taking beautiful pictures; it's about creating a business that resonates with authenticity and connection.

As the episode unfolds, listeners are encouraged to rethink their own business strategies, especially regarding the use of email lists and social media engagement. Elena advocates for focusing on genuine connections rather than vanity metrics, which can be tempting in today’s digital age. By the end of their chat, both Matt and Elena inspire listeners to embrace their journeys, reminding them that with the right mindset, community, and strategies, they too can design the life they desire. Tune in and soak up the wisdom shared in this episode, where the art of photography beautifully intertwines with the realities of building a business.

Takeaways:

• Elena Blair emphasizes the importance of capturing genuine family connections and emotions in photography, going beyond traditional portrait styles.
• In the podcast, we dive deep into the significance of building a community over competition in the photography business, which is crucial for long-term success.
• Elena highlights that having a solid email marketing strategy can yield significantly better engagement rates compared to social media, making it a vital tool for photographers.
• The conversation covers how mindset and self-awareness play a huge role in overcoming fears and self-sabotage, especially for new business owners in photography.
• Elena shares her insights on the necessity of understanding basic business metrics and SEO for photographers to effectively market their services and attract clients.
• The episode wraps up with the idea that creating a 'designer life'—one where you control your time and business direction—is the ultimate goal for creative entrepreneurs.

Resources and Links

• WEBSITE: https://www.elenasblairphotography.com/
• FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/elenasblairphotography/
• INSTAGRAM:

George Varanakis is a true cornerstone in the photography world, and in our latest chat, we dive into the inner workings of the conferences he helped spearhead, WPPI and the Portrait Masters. We’re talking about how he’s not just a guy pulling the strings behind the scenes, but a genuine connector who builds communities that thrive. George is honest and open about what it really takes to pull off a massive conference like WPPI, from the emotional labor to the logistics, all while keeping the vibe high and the energy infectious. Plus, we ponder the future of creative education — online and in-person — and how to keep that spark alive when everything feels like it’s changing at lightning speed. It’s like a cocktail of insights, humor, and great stories that you won’t want to miss!

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: George Varanakis: The Architect of Engagement

Episode Number: 45

Publish Date: 18 April 2025

Episode Overview

George Varanakis, the mastermind behind some of the most significant educational platforms in the photography industry, is our special guest today. Known for his behind-the-scenes role at events like WPPI, Creative Live, and the Portrait Masters Conference, George shares insights into the hard work that goes into organizing such large-scale events. We dive into the nitty-gritty details of what it takes to create a successful conference experience, from managing teams to dealing with unexpected challenges. George emphasizes the importance of community building and how fostering connections among photographers can elevate the overall experience. He reflects on his journey from working at Rangefinder Magazine to becoming a strategic consultant for trade show giant Emerald, showcasing the evolution of the photography landscape and the shift towards online education. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, this conversation will inspire you to look at photography education in a new light and understand the value of community and connection in our industry.

Takeaways:

• George Varanakis shares insights on the behind-the-scenes hustle at WPPI, revealing the immense effort that goes into organizing a massive photography conference.
• We dive into the evolution of online education in photography, discussing how platforms like Sue Bryce Education are reshaping creative learning.
• George emphasizes the importance of community in photography, explaining how events foster connections that extend beyond just networking.
• The conversation highlights the need for continuous feedback to improve conferences, as George insists that listening to attendees is key to making every event better.
• We explore the balance between online and in-person experiences in photography education, as George outlines strategies to keep the excitement alive year-round.
• George and I chat about the power of collaboration, especially how he and Sue Bryce's creative synergy leads to groundbreaking ideas in the photography industry.

Resources and Links

• EMAIL: george@digitalproductstudios.com

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In this episode of Generator, I sit down with digital artist, photographer, and all-around creative badass Renee Robyn to talk about what it really means to make cool stuff. From her roots in the Canadian north to her role as Optics Product Manager at Boris FX, Renee brings equal parts grit, geekery, and genius to the table.

We dig into her cinematic style, her fearless approach to failure, and the wild ride that’s taken her from modeling and locksmithing to placing fourth in the Photographic World Cup. Along the way, we share a lot of laughs and some real talk about embracing the chaos of creativity, pushing boundaries, and trusting your weird.

🎨 What you’ll take away from this episode:

✅ Why failure isn’t just okay—it’s necessary for real creative growth

✅ How Renee mixes photography, fantasy, and tech to create next-level art

✅ The power of experimentation and not taking yourself too seriously

✅ Behind-the-scenes of her work at Boris FX and how tech tools empower artists

✅ The unfiltered journey from locksmith to global digital art icon

Whether you’re deep in the creative trenches or just love watching someone light the whole playbook on fire and build their own, this one’s got inspiration, insights, and probably a few snorts of laughter.

🚀 If this episode hit home, smash that like button, leave a comment, and subscribe for more unfiltered creative stories.

🔗 Watch the Full Playlist:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwRT3vVIPpVcsizwNbIVqxGqQdeX-irIe&si=14s1NCVU325-RtWA

🌎 Website: https://generatorpodcast.com

📸 Follow Renee Robyn:

➡ Website: https://www.reneerobyn.com

➡ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reneerobynphotography

➡ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reneerobynphotography

➡ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReneeRobyn

➡ Boris FX: https://borisfx.com

⭐ Like the show? Leave a 5-star review! 🎧 Apple Podcasts

#DigitalArt #CreativeProcess #PhotographyPodcast #PhotoshopFails #BorisFX #ReneeRobyn #GeneratorPodcast

Matt Stagliano and Mitzi Starkweather dive deep into the highlights and hiccups of the WPPI 2025 conference, which took place at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas this past March. Right off the bat, they tackle the good, the bad, and the downright confusing aspects of the event, giving us a candid look at their contrasting experiences—Mitzi, as a speaker, and Matt, as an attendee. They reflect on the vibe of the conference, discussing how it felt fresh yet familiar in a new venue, and how the energy was palpable. As they banter back and forth, they sprinkle in some philosophical musings about the photography industry, raising questions about the direction it's headed and the need for a more inclusive community. If you're a photographer looking to catch the latest trends or just want to bask in the camaraderie of your tribe, this episode is packed with insights and a sprinkle of humor that’ll make you feel like you were right there in Vegas with them!

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: WPPI 2025 Recap

Episode Number: 43

Publish Date: 7 April 2025

Episode Overview

Let’s talk about WPPI 2025, shall we? This year’s conference was a blast, and I’m here with Mitzi Starkweather to talk about the highlights! Held at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas, it brought together photographers from all corners of the globe, and boy, did we have a good time! Mitzi and I caught up to share our thoughts on everything from the seminars to the parties, and compared contrasting experiences. While she was busy working and speaking, I was busy making connections and soaking in knowledge. The vibe was refreshing, and we both felt a unique sense of community and support among fellow photographers. Sure, there were a few hiccups here and there—like figuring out the new layout of the venue or navigating the app—but overall, it was a step in the right direction! We also delved into the future of photography, discussing how we can adapt and grow in this ever-evolving industry.

Takeaways:

• WPPI 2025 at the Rio Hotel saw a mix of excitement and challenges, showcasing the evolving nature of photography conferences.
• Mitzi and Matt had contrasting experiences at WPPI, highlighting the importance of networking and personal growth in the industry.
• The inclusion of new spaces for community building and quieter discussions was a hit, but improvements in signage and accessibility are still needed.
• Conversations about the philosophical aspects of photography, like intention and connection, are crucial for the industry's growth and betterment.
• The Future of Photography Room provided a welcome respite from the chaos, reinforcing the need for such spaces at future events.
• Next year’s WPPI could benefit from more diverse and inclusive representation among speakers, focusing on the 'why' behind photography rather than just the 'how'.

Resources and Links

• WEBSITE: https://stonetreecreative.com
• FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/stonetreecreative
• INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/stonetreecreative

Calls to Action

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Kirsten Graham is all about flipping the script for business owners, helping them go from being total wallflowers to the life of the party with some savvy outsourcing and a little video marketing magic. She’s a powerhouse from Six Figure Business Coaching, and trust me, this episode is packed! We dive into why outsourcing tasks to a virtual assistant can save you tons of time. Plus, Kirsten gives you the do's and don'ts of working with VAs, from protecting your accounts to finding the right fit for your biz. And hey, if you’re wondering about video marketing, she’s got some tips on why it’s time to dust off that YouTube channel and get it going! So buckle up and get ready to unleash your business potential, because this chat with Kirsten is a total game-changer!

Podcast Title: Generator

Episode Title: Grow Your Business By Outsourcing

Episode Number: 42

Publish Date: 4 April 2025

Episode Overview

Navigating the chaotic world of entrepreneurship can feel like overwhelming. In this episode, we dive headfirst into the whirlwind of creativity and business with Kirsten Graham. As a co-founder of Six Figure Business Coaching, Kirsten is on a mission to help business owners just like us break free from the shackles of invisibility and step into the spotlight where they belong. We chat about the often-overlooked superpower of outsourcing—specifically, how a virtual assistant (VA) can save our sanity and make our businesses soar. We explore everything from the nitty-gritty of hiring the right VA to the freedom that comes with delegating tasks like marketing and bookkeeping. Kirsten shares her wealth of knowledge on the dos and don'ts of outsourcing, ensuring we learn from her hard-earned lessons (spoiler alert: it involves avoiding the “pay now, ghost later” scenario). Plus, we take a detour into the land of video marketing, where Kirsten encourages us to embrace our inner YouTuber and start creating content that not only showcases our brand but also connects us with our audience. Trust me, if you’ve ever felt like you’re drowning in the daily grind of your business, this episode is your lifesaver.

Takeaways:

• Kirsten emphasizes that outsourcing tasks to a virtual assistant can free up precious time for business owners, allowing them to focus on growth instead of being bogged down by daily minutiae.
• In our conversation, we dive into the importance of having a clear brand voice and style guide, as it not only helps in consistent branding but also aids virtual assistants in understanding the business better.
• We discuss how video marketing, especially on platforms like YouTube, can be a game changer for visibility and authority, turning one piece of content into multiple marketing assets.
• A key takeaway is that taking breaks and stepping back from daily operations allows business owners to recharge and strategize, ultimately leading to better decision making and business growth.
• Kirsten shares that effective onboarding of virtual assistants is crucial, and this involves teaching them your brand voice and expectations to ensure they can represent you accurately.
• We agree that embracing imperfections and being authentic in content creation can create a stronger connection with audiences, making them more likely to engage with your brand.

Resources and Links

• WEBSITE: https://sixfigurebusinesscoaching.com
• FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/kirsten.graham.3517
• INSTAGRAM: