🎙 Episode Summary

In this bonus episode of The One Behind the Lens, Kate sits down with Vickie Black—the founder of Senior Style Guide—to unpack the origins of SSG, the mission behind its supportive photography community, and the iconic Hot 100 contest. From overcoming rejection and industry competition to mastering workflows and maximizing sales, Vickie shares how photographers can elevate their craft, their business, and their confidence.

Whether you’re a seasoned senior photographer or just starting out, this episode is packed with inspiration, actionable tips, and behind-the-scenes insights into one of the most competitive contests in senior photography.

📌 What You’ll Learn

• Vickie’s origin story: turning rejection into a thriving photography platform

• How SSG fosters community over competition in a saturated market

• Maximizing workflow efficiency to increase product sales

• Navigating the Hot 100 contest: tips, tricks, and blind-judging insights

• The importance of celebrating your unique style and value

🕒 Timeline

0:00 – Welcome! Meet Vickie Black, founder of Senior Style Guide

2:30 – From rejection to creation: SSG’s founding in 2011

5:45 – Pivoting from blog to print magazine and rapid growth

9:15 – Mission over competition: building a supportive photography community

13:00 – Workflow tips: 1.5-hour sessions → 100 frames → 42 delivered images

17:30 – Outsourcing editing and bookkeeping for efficiency and sanity

21:00 – Hot 100 Contest breakdown: rules, blind judging, and strategy

28:00 – How entering the contest sharpens critical self-evaluation

32:15 – Tips for submitting: Hot 100 buddy, image selection, category strategy

37:45 – Celebrating uniqueness in a saturated market

42:00 – SSG events, masterminds, and community-building

46:30 – Upcoming initiatives from SSG in 2026

50:00 – Final thoughts: No means not yet, and embracing growth

54:00 – Where to find Vickie and connect with Senior Style Guide

💾 Resources & Links

• SSG Freebie / Download: SSG Issue 91

• Hot 100 Contest: Enter by Nov 17, 11:59 PM ET

• SSG Community: Facebook Group

• Follow Vickie Online: Instagram: @seniorstyleguide

  Rockbrook Camera, Now through 2025, save 25% off your rental order at Rockbrook Camera in Omaha or Lincoln, Nebraska. ⁠Redeem here⁠

✨ Quote Highlights

"No means not yet. Every setback is just a chance to create something bigger and better." — Vickie Black

"Community over competition—when we lift each other up, we all rise higher." — Vickie Black

"Your uniqueness is your superpower. Stop comparing and start celebrating what only you can create." — Vickie Black

📄 Try This: Hot 100 Prep Challenge

1. Select a Hot 100 buddy for objective feedback

2. Enter all applicable categories to maximize visibility

3. Submit only sharp, high-quality images

4. Use the contest to critically evaluate your work and celebrate your style

💬 Final Thoughts

Vickie’s story is a masterclass in turning rejection into opportunity, fostering meaningful connections in photography, and embracing uniqueness as a tool for growth. Whether you’re submitting to the Hot 100 for the first time or looking to streamline your workflow, this episode is packed with actionable insights, inspiration, and encouragement to take your business and artistry to the next level.

Until next time —Let’s shutter up and shine. 💫 Kate

Episode Summary:Busy season is busy — but that doesn’t mean your marketing should go dark. In this bonus episode, Kate shares real, actionable ways photographers can stay visible, connect with their audience, and keep future bookings coming — without burning out. From batch posting to showing the messy middle, this is your gentle reminder that done is better than perfect.

⏱️ Episode Breakdown:

00:00 – Yay, it’s you, Shutter Squad! Kate kicks things off with a bonus pep talk for photographers in the thick of busy season — because your camera may be glued to your hand, but your marketing can still shine.

02:12 – Why You Still Need to Show Up How staying visible during busy season builds trust and momentum for the months ahead. Even a quick Story or behind-the-scenes peek goes a long way.

05:20 – Simple, Doable Marketing Moves

• Batch and repurpose your existing content

• Automate a few posts per week

• Send short, easy check-in emails

• Share the real messy middle moments

10:45 – Mindset Check: Done is Better Than Perfect Don’t overthink it. One-liners and candid moments count just as much as polished posts.

15:00 – Education Spotlight: Your Headliner Show A live, high-energy experience happening November 13th where you’ll build a content plan that actually works.💰 $69 — link to register in the show notes!

17:45 – Outro: Keep Showing Up, Shutter Squad 📸 Share your Photo Confession Booth stories by email, DM, or voice memo — they might make it into an upcoming episode!

🔗 Links Mentioned in This Episode

Your Social Media Era (Nov 13th – $69): Save your Seat

The Coffee Roaster Lincoln (SAVE 5%) https://coffeeroasterlnk.com/tobtl

Pose Like A Pro: https://www.katedecostephotography.com/photographers/digital-download/pose-like-a-pro

💌 Connect with Kate

Instagram | @katedecoste

Facebook | Kate DeCoste Photography

[Website]

Got a Photo Confession or question for the show?

Send a voice memo or DM — Kate loves hearing from the Shutter Squad!

🎙️ Quotes to Remember

1. “Busy season doesn’t mean silent season.”
   → A simple reminder that consistency—even in small ways—keeps your business visible and thriving.

2. “Your clients aren’t just watching when you have time to post pretty photos. They’re watching how consistent you are through it all.”
   → A mindset shift every photographer needs when the editing queue feels endless.

3. “Even a one-line caption like ‘Golden Hour Magic’ keeps you in the feed and in your client’s mind.”
   → Small effort, big impact.

4. “Keep showing up, even in the smallest ways, and your future self—and your calendar—will thank you.”
   → The perfect mantra for staying motivated through the chaos of busy season.

Episode: The One Behind the Lens – Overcoming Pose Panic

Every photographer has been there. Standing behind the camera, ready to capture the perfect shot, and suddenly your mind goes blank. Pose panic is a common challenge that can strike during any session, from seniors to families to couples.

In this episode of The One Behind the Lens, I share strategies for overcoming pose panic, keeping your clients relaxed, and making your sessions flow smoothly.

What We Cover (Timestamps):

[2:10] What pose panic is and why it happens[

5:45] Movement-based poses to loosen clients and keep the session moving

[10:20] Ice-breakers, humor, and “fake model” prompts for engagement

[15:50] Hand placement techniques to keep subjects confident and natural

[20:30] Narrating the session and giving micro-directions

[25:15] Reset strategies to regain composure during challenging moments

[28:40] Using client prep guides like Pose Like a Pro (10% off with code POSE)

[31:00] Real-life session stories: seniors, couples, and families

Quotes to Remember :

• "Pose panic is normal—it happens to every photographer at some point." – Kate DeCoste

• "Movement is magic. A simple walk, twirl, or laugh can break the ice and reset the energy." – Kate DeCoste

• "Narrate the session. Even small micro-directions keep your clients engaged and confident." – Kate DeCoste

• "It’s okay to pause and reset. Sometimes the best thing you can do is take a breath and start fresh." – Kate DeCoste

Resources Mentioned:📲

Save 25% your next rental at Rockbrook Camera: Save Here

Pose Like a Pro client prep guide → Use code POSE for 10% off. Find on Kate's website under "Photographers".

Follow Rockbrook Camera:

📸 Instagram: @rockbrookcamera

Connect with Kate:

📸 Instagram: @katedecoste

🌐 Website: katedecostephotography.com

🎧 Watch or listen here: https://pod.link/1826428370/episode/MDRhYjNkOWEtNTNiNC00YWQyLTkxNjYtYWZlMGUyMDM1YmQ0

Episode Title: The One About SEO & AI: What Photographers Need to Know Now with Jeremy Hyler of Photobiz.com

Guest: Jeremy Hyler, Creative Director at PhotoBiz.com

Summary: In this episode, Kate chats with Jeremy Hyler about the truth behind SEO, what photographers need to know about AI (spoiler: it’s not all bad), and why a streamlined website experience matters more than ever. Whether you're looking to improve your Google ranking or simplify your site-building experience, this episode is full of real-talk tips, future-forward insights, and tools that actually help.

What we Cover (⏱️ Timestamps + Quotes to Remember):

[1:07] – Jeremy’s origin story: from film to full-on creative director

“I realized I loved telling stories—and helping others do the same.”

[7:29] – SEO basics photographers actually need to know

“Stop keyword stuffing. Google wants a story, not a directory.”

[11:08] – Why blogging still works (and how to do it better)

“Every blog is an SEO boost. Keep it short, show your best, and stagger your posts.”

[13:55] – Gallery tips to boost SEO + client experience

“30 images, not 300. Give them the moment, not the scroll fatigue.”

[17:08] – Website mistakes to avoid

“Your aesthetic should never come at the cost of user experience.”

[23:26] – How AI is impacting photography & websites

“You’re not being replaced. You’re being supported.”

[32:24] – AI & SEO: Why reviews, blogs, and fresh content matter

“Google’s new AI search will prioritize updated, reviewed, localized content.”

[39:11] – What makes PhotoBiz different

“DIY or DFY—either way, we’re here to make it easy.”

[46:02] – Hidden gem: A new quick-change feature is coming

“No more diving deep to make design tweaks—just click and go.”

[52:33] – 🎉 Listener Exclusive: Use code POD25 for 25% off

“It’s basically like getting 3 months free on your first year.”

Resources Mentioned:

25% Off Photobiz.com Annual Membership:

https://landing-page.photobiz.com/behind-the-lens

Shutter Squad Freebies:

https://www.katedecostephotography.com/photographers

Connect with Kate:

Instagram: @katedecoste

Website: https://www.katedecostephotography.com/

Episode Summary: In this episode of The One Behind the Lens, Kate sits down with attorney, entrepreneur, and business strategist Rachel Brenke to unpack the key legal protections every creative business should have. Rachel shares insights from her own journey balancing law, family, and creative ventures, covering contracts, copyright, liability, AI and prevention strategies that save time, money, and stress.

What We Cover (Timestamps):

[5:40] Watermarks, copyright, and how to deter infringements

[47:23] Rachel’s background: attorney, author, and creative entrepreneur

[50:54] The three non-negotiables for creatives: contracts, copyright, liability protection

[52:53] Liability protection deep dive: contracts, business entity, insurance

[55:40] The value of prevention over cleanup—why front-end planning saves headaches

[58:20] Free resources and business audit for creative entrepreneurs

[1:01:58] Using AI as a legal and creative tool—pros, cons, and best practices

[1:02:58] Closing thoughts: incremental learning, practical legal steps, and protecting your business while you grow

Quotes to Remember:

"Contracts, copyright, and liability protection aren’t optional - they’re your business safety net." – Rachel Brenke

"Prevention always beats cleanup. It saves you time, money, and sanity." – Rachel Brenke

"AI is a good starting point, but it can’t replace strategy and human perspective." – Rachel Brenke

Resources Mentioned:

👉 Rachel Brenke’s website: rachelbrenke.com

🎧 Rachel’s podcast: Business Bites Podcast

🌐 TheLawTog: thelawtog.com → Use code LENS to save 20% off anything

📲 Free business audit and resources: rachelbrenke.com

💻 PhotoBiz: photobiz.com → Save 25% off your first year with code TOBTL

☕ The Coffee Roaster: coffeeroasterlnk.com → Enjoy 5% off your order with code TOBTL

Work with Kate:
🎓 Photography Workshop (Virtual, October) → katedecostephotography.com/photographers
✨ Earlybird Pricing available until September 15th!

Connect with Kate:

📸 Instagram: @katedecoste

🌐 Website: katedecostephotography.com

In this episode of The One Behind the Lens, Kate DeCoste dives into the power of saying “no” in your photography business—and in life. She shares her personal journey of discovering what truly lights her up, letting go of the work that drains her, and embracing the messy middle of her creative story. From weddings and newborn sessions that weren’t a fit, to finding freedom and focus in high school senior and headshot sessions, Kate shows how saying no can lead to clarity, joy, and creative growth.

What We Cover (Timestamps):

[0:00] Welcome back, Shutter Squad—introducing the theme of saying no

[2:30] The messy middle: where anxiety, doubt, and growth intersect[

5:10] No as a complete sentence: freeing yourself and others

[7:40] Kate’s personal story: why weddings and newborns weren’t her fit

[12:20] The anxiety and pressure of shooting weddings—lessons from theater

[16:50] How saying no opened the door to what Kate truly loves: seniors & headshots[19:30] The Photo Confession Booth: sharing your photography fears, habits, or guilty pleasures[

22:00] Kate’s confession: missing an important bride & mother moment at a wedding

[27:40] Lessons learned from missed moments and why shot lists matter

[30:10] Weekly challenge: identify what you’ve been saying yes to that doesn’t bring you joy and practice saying no

Quotes to Remember:"

No is a complete sentence. It’s one of the kindest things you can do for yourself—and for others." – Kate DeCoste

"Saying no helped me hone my craft. It helped me get really good at what I love." – Kate DeCoste

"No is a boundary, no is a filter, no is a complete sentence—and no can change your business, your creativity, and your life." – Kate DeCoste

Resources Mentioned:

Shutter Squad Freebies: www.katedecostephotography.com/photographers

🌐 Kate’s website & booking info: katedecostephotography.com

💡 Aller Enterprises: https://tayloraller.myflodesk.com/freeplanner

Connect with Kate:

📸 Instagram: @katedecoste

🌐 Website: www.katedecostephotography.com

Episode Summary: In this episode of The One Behind the Lens, Kate sits down with storytelling strategist and business coach Megan Yelaney to unpack how your origin story can be your greatest marketing asset. Megan shares how she went from theater and network marketing to building a multi-million-dollar business—all by leaning into what made her different and learning how to tell her story with intention. She also walks us through her signature 5-part Business Story Blueprint and how to use it to craft content that connects and converts.

What We Cover (Timestamps):

• [3:00] Megan’s unexpected journey from theater to network marketing to full-time business coach

• [7:44] How unlearning performance and learning to show up authentically transformed her brand

• [10:16] Why storytelling is your most powerful sales tool—especially in the age of AI

• [14:20] How to turn everyday moments (like toddler tantrums or Target runs) into relatable business content

• [16:42] The biggest storytelling mistake entrepreneurs make—and how to fix it

• [17:00] Megan’s 5-part Business Story Blueprint explained step-by-step:

• 1. Catalyst Moment – the hook that draws people in

  2. Transformation – what changed and how

  3. Impact – the ripple effect of solving the problem

  4. Mission – why you care deeply about what you do

  5. Unique Edge – what sets you apart from everyone else

• [26:00] Should you show your face online? (Especially if you're a behind-the-scenes creative)

• [28:00] Going live: why it builds trust and how to make it less awkward

• [31:00] Tips for going live without feeling like you need to “perform”

• [32:30] Don’t think you have a story? Here’s what to do instead

• [35:00] The power of “small” stories and why they often convert better than big dramatic ones

• [39:00] How to sell in a way that feels natural, not salesy

• [42:00] Perfectionism, progress, and why you need to just post the story already

• [45:00] Why likes ≠ sales and the importance of DMs over public validation

• [47:00] Vulnerable content and the quiet lurkers who become clients

Quotes to Remember:

"You don’t need a wild transformation to have a story worth telling. You need relatability and intention." – Megan Yelaney

"If you’re not selling, you’re actually limiting someone from being able to work with you." – Megan Yelaney

"I could get 10 likes and 5 DMs from the right people—and that’s a win." – Megan Yelaney

Resources Mentioned:

👉 Download the Free Business Story Blueprint

🎧 Listen to Megan’s podcast: https://meganyelaney.com/podcast

📲 Follow Megan on Instagram: @meganyelaney

💻 Work with Megan or learn more: www.meganyelaney.com

Mentioned in the episode:

5% off your Coffee Roaster Order: http://www.coffeeroasterlnk.com/tobtl

Episode 4 - The One with the Business Game Plan: Ads, Pricing & Photo Biz Wisdom with Andrew Hellmich

Connect with Kate: 📸 Follow Kate on Instagram: @katedecoste

🌐 Visit the website: www.katedecostephotography.com