S22 E217 Alishia Abodunde - Documentary Photographer

This week’s guest is Alishia Abodunde, a London-based, self-taught photographer whose work captures the authenticity and intimacy of honest storytelling through still imagery. Alishia first discovered her passion during the lockdown, creating her debut series, Locked Down, which documented the daily lives of two young children navigating a global pandemic. Her talent quickly garnered attention, leading to collaborations with Getty Images and Thomson Reuters, where her stories on South London’s Black-owned ballet school, Pointe Black, and the UK’s only Black Santa experience, Noir Kringle, gained widespread acclaim.

Named one of The Guardian’s Outstanding Agency Photographers of 2023, Alishia’s impactful work has been featured in BBC News, The Financial Times, The Times, and more. As a Black woman in the creative industry, Alishia is driven by a commitment to amplifying diverse voices and sparking meaningful conversations. Join us as we discuss her journey, the inspiration behind her projects, and how she’s using photography to champion underrepresented communities.

See Alishia's incredible work on her website and keep up with her projects by following her on Instagram!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

LISTEN HERE!

S22 E213 Tori Spadaro Weintraub

Say hello to Tori Spadaro Weintraub, a photographer, creative director, and producer for photoshoots and music video shoots! Tori's passion lies in crafting content that sparks wonder and captures authentic emotion. Her dynamic approach allows her to create visually compelling stories that resonate deeply with audiences.
 
After initially pursuing a career in nursing, Tori found her true calling in creative direction and visual storytelling. Tune in to learn about her journey, her creative process, and how she brings each project to life.

You can see Topri's incredible work on her website or by following her on Instagram!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

LISTEN HERE!

S21 E211 Iri Greco

Today we're talking with Iri Greco,  a photographer and video producer whose journey into photography began after spending over a decade working as a chef and food stylist. From her time in restaurant kitchens and bartending to styling for TV shows like Martha Stewart and Food Network, Iri brings a deep understanding of food and the people who create it.

Now the co-owner of BrakeThrough Media, a photo agency specializing in active lifestyle, sports, and food culture, Iri’s work is a unique blend of visual storytelling that captures the essence of both movement and flavor. Tune in as we explore her fascinating career path and how her love for food informs her work behind the camera.

You can keep up with Iri and check out her incredible work by visiting her website or checking out her Instagram!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

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S21 E210 Helynn Ospina

In this episode, we’re joined by Helynn Ospina, a photographer, artist, and storyteller. Born in Colombia and raised in the U.S. as an undocumented immigrant, Helynn’s journey has been shaped by the search for identity. Her path has been anything but conventional, from serving in the U.S. Marines to working in scientific research, all while her passion for photography quietly grew.

Helynn’s work reflects her deep curiosity and connection to both the seen and unseen. Her unique perspective has led her to collaborate with brands like AirBNB, WeWork, and Martha Stoumen Wines, with her art featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Communication Arts. Tune in as we explore how her journey and creative vision continue to evolve, and how she sees each photograph as the start of a larger conversation.

You can see Helynn's beautiful work and keep up with her by following her on Instagramand checking out her website!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

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S21 E209 Sandy Grigsby

Today we have the pleasure of speaking with Sandy Grigsby! Sandy started as a commercial model for major brands like T-Mobile, Apple, and Cadillac, and later transitioned into designing celebrity websites with top photographers in LA. Despite her success, Sandy faced her own struggles with self-image, but everything changed when she embraced photography.

She discovered a talent for capturing stunning portraits of people who hated being in front of the camera, helping them see the beauty and confidence they never knew they had. Today, she speaks on international stages and shares her journey of overcoming self-doubt and embracing her own greatness.

You can keep up with Sandy on Instagram, LinkedIn, or by visiting her website!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

LISTEN HERE!

S21 E 208 Katie Marble

In this episode, Lauren is chatting with Katie Marble, a California native and lifelong creative with over 15 years of experience in both agency and freelance work. Katie’s passion for storytelling, style, and attention to detail brings a fresh perspective to everything she shoots.

Her journey in photography began when her uncle invited her to sit behind the scenes of a TV show set, where the magic of collaboration inspired her career. Today, Katie has developed a passion for creating vibrant, candid, and fun images that capture the essence of her clients' lives. Tune in to hear how she continues to push boundaries and aim high in her creative journey.

You can keep up with Katie by visiting her website and following her on Instagram!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

LISTEN HERE!

S21 E205 Erika Bierman

In this episode, we’re joined by Erika Bierman, whose story begins in a small Hungarian town, where she developed a deep connection to nature and sustainable living. Growing up, she spent her days biking through fields, learning the art of winemaking, and nurturing a love for simplicity. Although she initially pursued economics, Erika’s passion for fashion led her to start a modeling career at just 14, taking her from Hungary to the fashion capitals of New York and Los Angeles. A chance meeting with Vivienne Westwood became a defining moment in her life. This experience, along with her work with industry giants like Sebastian, shaped her understanding of fashion and corporate responsibility.

Today, Erika is an accomplished photographer with over a decade of experience, particularly in interior design. Her journey into photography took a major turn during her studies at UCLA, where a class in Architectural Photography sparked a new passion. Drawing on her time in front of the camera, she now uses her skills to bring out the best in both people and spaces. Erika’s work is a unique blend of her fashion background and her love for visual storytelling, capturing the essence of her subjects with a natural and intuitive approach.

You can see Erika's incredible work and contact information on her website!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

LISTEN HERE!

S21 E203 Catching Up with Neysa of Ginger and Carrot Productions

You might remember Neysa's amazing story from back in Season 19. Neysa is a multi-skilled life coach, entrepreneur, author, and podcast host dedicated to helping others show up authentically and boldly. As a co-owner of Ginger and Carrot Productions, an LA-based production agency, Neysa uses her creative talents to inspire, uplift, and encourage people to color outside the lines through documentaries, brand videos, and more.

Today, we're diving into the business side of Neysa's career! Specifically, she's telling us all about how she networks, what she has learned since the beginning, and ways she sets boundaries to avoid burnout. Listen in for some incredible tips!

Follow Neysa on Instagram --> https://www.instagram.com/gingerandcarrotprod/
Check out the Ginger and Carrot Productions site --> https://www.gingerandcarrot.com/
Book a 2hr coaching session --> https://calendly.com/neysacreates
Listen to her podcast, read her book, and more! --> https://neysacreates.my.canva.site/connect

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

LISTEN HERE!

S20 E202 Shaina Fishman

Join us in this episode as we chat with Shaina Fishman, an accomplished photographer with a passion for capturing the essence of animals. Shaina's journey began with her family pets and has taken her around the world, photographing wild lions in Kenya, street dogs in Peru, and stray cats in Jerusalem. With a background in commercial photography from Syracuse University and a decade of experience working with renowned fashion photographer Peter Lindbergh, Shaina brings a unique blend of fashion and animal photography to her work.

Since 2006, Shaina has specialized in photographing domestic animals, both in studio and on location. Her graphic and modern approach results in playful, humorous images that personify her animal subjects. Shaina's work spans various productions, from advertising to pro bono projects with animal rescues. Tune in to hear about her incredible adventures, the inspiration behind her work, and how she combines patience and creativity to capture the perfect shot.

See all of Shaina's incredible work by visiting her website and giving her a follow on Instagram!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

LISTEN HERE!

S20 E198 Jenna Yandle

Today Lauren is chatting with Jenna Yandle, a talented photographer and aspiring art director based in Marin County, California. Jenna discovered her passion for visual arts in high school. She recently graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Designwith a BFA in commercial photography and a minor in fashion merchandising.

Jenna is an artist who believes in creating images, not just taking them. Her work in analog, alternative processes, and digital photography is driven by a passion for women's empowerment and storytelling. Dedicated to inclusivity, wellness, and collaboration, Jenna uses her creative talents to empower others and promote their best selves. Tune in to hear about her journey and how she seamlessly blends her artistic vision with her commitment to making a positive impact through her work.
Keep up with Jenna on Instagram and check out her website to see her beautiful portfolio!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

LISTEN HERE!

S20 E192 Hayley Fisk

oday we're talking to Hayley Fisk,  a versatile photographer and videographer specializing in product, beauty, and food & beverage in Los Angeles. After earning her BFA in photography in Illinois, she moved to LA to pursue her passion. Hayley bridges fine art and commercial photography, creating captivating images that boost audience engagement. Hayley is passionate about focusing on and promoting diversity and inclusivity in every piece of art she creates.

You can learn more about Hayley and see her incredible work by visiting her website! Keep up with her as she continues her craft by following her on Instagram!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

LISTEN HERE!

S20 E193 Emily Jahr

Emily Jahr is a globally experienced photographer and creative partner known for her ambitious work style and creative mind. Despite being so early in her career, Emily is incredibly experienced and intelligent with a lifetime of potential ahead of her.

Combining photography and creative direction, she crafts cinematic and powerful images that tell compelling stories. Emily has collaborated with notable clients such as Liza Gershman, National Geographic photographer Suzi Eszterhas, Bath Box, Gold Fever, Sally Reps, Kings Hawaiian, and Photographers Forum, enjoying a long history of successful creative endeavors.

You can keep up with Emily and her incredible work by following her on Instagram or checking out her website!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

LISTEN HERE!

S19 E189 Nitya Jain

Today we're talking to Nitya Jain, a photographer and director focusing on food, drink, hospitality, and lifestyle. With a knack for creating vibrant and irresistible visual content, Nitya's lens captures the magic of every flavor, space, and place, guiding viewers through a journey illuminated by light and color. Rooted in her South Asian heritage, Nitya's love affair with food and hues traces back to her upbringing in India, where meals were a celebration of shared experiences and stories. With a background in architecture and graphic design, she weaves together light, textures, and space to craft bespoke visual narratives for her commercial and editorial clients, each a unique tapestry of storytelling and creativity.

You can see Nitya's amazing work on her website or by following her on Instagram!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!
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S19 E190 Colette Peri

Meet Colette Peri, a creative entrepreneur dedicated to weaving magic into advertisements, marketing strategies, and everyday life. On a mission to empower others, Colette aims to unlock your creativity, awaken your imagination, and encourage you to take risks in pursuing what you love. Balancing a dynamic career of creating videos for brands and teaching creatives how to infuse their work with magic, Colette also finds joy in making homemade matcha in Stinson Beach and hiking through the redwood forest with a trusty yellow backpack. Join Colette on a journey to discover and embrace the enchantment in your own creative endeavors.

Check out Colette's current courses on her website!

You can see Colette's regularly uploaded content on her Instagram and TikTok!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!
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S19 E188 Daniela Gerson

Today we're talking to Daniela Gerson! Formerly a chef with a fervent passion for sourcing vibrant produce from local markets, Daniela's journey took an unexpected turn after a back injury led her to discover her innate talent for photography. Now, as a food photographer, creative director, food stylist, and recipe developer, Daniela's images beautifully accentuate the natural allure of real food, capturing its essence with every click. With a studio adorned with an array of captivating props, Daniela collaborates with brands, restaurants, and publications, breathing life into their creative visions from inception to fruition through stunning stills and captivating motion. When she's not immersed in her craft, Daniela finds solace surfing the California coast or imparting her culinary wisdom to her niece, weaving memories as colorful as her challah braids.

Follow Daniela on Instagram to keep up her cooking and photography adventures! Make sure to check out her website to see all her incredible work.

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!
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S19 E187 Brooke Hummer

Join us for a thought-provoking episode featuring Brooke Hummer, a Chicago native whose lifelong passion for art history and photography fuels her collaborative lifestyle work, renowned for its natural, unaffected portraits and compassionate storytelling. However, it's Brooke's Fine Art practice that truly captivates, delving into the intricate intersections of female identity, class, and the complex interplay of money, love, and beauty within patriarchal structures. Through her art, Brooke offers a profound exploration of societal constructs and challenges, inviting viewers to reflect on the nuances of modern life while shedding light on the pervasive dynamics of privilege and power.

Brooke is represented by RAD Productions.

You can check out Brook'es incredible work by visiting her website and following her on Instagram!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!
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S19 E186 Lauren Volo

Join us as we chat with Lauren Volo, a talented food photographer whose journey from Syracuse University's darkroom to bustling New York City is as captivating as her images. After assisting top food photographers, she launched her own business in 2012, shooting cookbooks and collaborating with brands big and small for captivating ad campaigns.

Check out Lauren's work on the Big Leo website and follow her on Instagram to keep up with her day-to-day!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women, you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

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S18 E 182 Angela DeCenzo

Join us for an insightful conversation with Angela DeCenzo, a San Francisco-based photographer known for her captivating work in lifestyle, food, and portraiture. Angela's journey into photography began with childhood adventures in her family's VW van, instilling in her a love for simple abundance and honest human connection that permeates her work today.

In this episode, Angela shares her mindful approach to photography, emphasizing collaboration, humor, and genuine curiosity. She seeks to capture authentic moments and highlight the compelling stories of individuals and brands that share her values of well-being and sustainability. Join us as Angela inspires us to slow down, embrace curiosity, and find beauty in both the ordinary and extraordinary aspects of life through the transformative power of photography.

Make sure to check out Angela's website and follow her on Instagram to stay up to date with all of her amazing work.

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women: you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

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S18 E 179 Meagan Shuptar

In this episode, we sit down with Meagan Shuptar, a seasoned professional with over 17 remarkable years of experience. Renowned for her versatility and genuine approachability, Meagan navigates the realms of commercial and editorial photography, often taking on the roles of stylist and art director with finesse.

Beyond the lens, we delve into the personal passions and experiences that shape Meagan's worldview. From cherished moments with family to the thrill of exploring new destinations and filling their home with eclectic treasures, her Chicago roots ground her in a rich tapestry of experiences that fuel her creative vision.

You can follow Meagan on Instagram for a peek into her daily life as well as check out her website to see her incredible work!

Remember to stay safe and keep your creative juices flowing!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women: you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

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S18 E177 Amy Rose Productions - Melissa Amy Shanahan and Chelsea Rose Nye

Join us as we explore the captivating world of Amy Rose Productions, a dynamic duo of photographers comprising Melissa Amy Shanahan and Chelsea Rose Nye. Their sensational collaboration is rooted in a shared vision, paramount skill sets, and a mutual "I've got your back" mentality. Despite diverse entry points into the industry – Melissa's shift from corporate communication and Chelsea's childhood passion for photography – their collective expertise and passion shine through, creating impactful imagery that transcends borders.

In this episode, we delve into the dichotomy of their backgrounds, from Melissa's transformative change of heart to Chelsea's creative upbringing. The magic of Amy Rose lies not only in their individual mastery but in the harmonious fusion of their experiences. Amy Rose isn't just about capturing moments; they craft experiences that resonate universally, making them a formidable force in photography. Join us for a journey into the hearts and minds of two photographers turning passion into extraordinary adventures.

You can see portfolios and links to social media on the Amy Rose website!

If you would like to get involved with Focus On Women: you can review sponsorship and contribution options here, as well as become a member here.

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