LEVEL UP: A Wedding Photography + Videography Podcast

f you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything right- posting, sharing, creating, but still not seeing the kind of referrals you want? This episode is for you.We’re pulling back the curtain on the real reason referrals happen inside the wedding industry (hint: it’s not just about having pretty work). We talk about the relationships that actually move the needle, the kinds of connection strategies that get overlooked, and the difference between staying visible and staying valuable.The truth? You don’t need a bigger following, you need a stronger foundation. And it starts with how you show up for the people already around you.This episode is your invitation to stop waiting for referrals to “just happen” and start building the kind of relationships that lead to real opportunities.Let’s stop playing small. Let’s start showing up intentionally.Let’s go. 🤝✨Timestamps[00:00 – 04:17] Kicking Off Wedding Season and Creative Business Updates[04:18 – 07:02] Why Relationship Building Is the Lifeblood of Your Wedding Business[07:03 – 11:06] Picking the Right Type of Networking for Your Season[11:07 – 16:08] Finding Opportunities Others Miss: Taking Initiative in the Industry[16:09 – 20:57] Online vs. In-Person Networking: What Actually Builds Long-Term Referrals[20:58 – End] The Real Reason Referrals Happen and What’s Coming NextThe next round of The Luxury Mastermind will start in October 2025! We are thrilled to welcome you inside our signature 12 week program. Learn more + save your seat here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermind 📲 Love this episode? Screenshot and share it on social media! Tag us on Instagram at @TheLevelUpCo and let us know your biggest takeaway.The Level Up Co. Resources:- Wedding Planner Email Templates: https://thelevelupco.com/planner-email-template-bundle- Elevated Client Experience Bundle: https://thelevelupco.com/client-experience-bundle- Elevated Shot List: https://thelevelupco.com/elevated-shot-list- The Luxury Framework Course: https://thelevelupco.com/theluxuryframework- The Luxury Pricing Mini Course: https://thelevelupco.com/resetConnect with Taylor , Kelley + The Level Up Co.:🔗Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelevelupco/🔗Taylor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorpetrinovich/🔗Kelley's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/618studios/💻Website: https://thelevelupco.com/

There comes a point in your creative business where doing “more” isn’t the answer—working longer hours, booking more weddings, saying yes to every opportunity. If you’re feeling stretched thin or creatively uninspired, it might be time to shift your strategy.In this episode, we’re breaking down the simple (but powerful) shifts you can make behind the camera that instantly elevate your work and speak to a more luxury clientele. We're talking real-time choices, intentional artistry, and how to shoot with the final product in mind—even when the budget isn’t massive or the conditions aren’t perfect.Because here’s the truth: high-end clients don’t just want beautiful—they want intentional, elevated, and editorial. And that doesn’t mean shooting differently for them, it means learning to bring more of you into every frame.This is your reminder that the most successful creatives aren’t the ones who follow trends, they’re the ones who lead with clarity. So if you’ve been waiting for permission to evolve your process, tell better stories, or raise your standards—this episode is for you.🎬 Hit play and let’s refine how you show up behind the lens.Timestamps:[00:00 – 04:19] Why Your Shooting Style Needs to Evolve as You Grow[04:20 – 10:20] Being Observant and Taking Initiative to Elevate Your Work[10:21 – 17:15] Creating Elevated Visuals with Limited Budgets[17:16 – 25:15] The Power of Telling a Full, Sensory Story[25:16 – 33:15] Shooting with the Final Product in Mind[33:16 – End] Final Thoughts on Growth, Portfolio Strategy, and Artistic IntentionThe next round of The Luxury Mastermind will start in October 2025! We are thrilled to welcome you inside our signature 12 week program. Learn more + save your seat here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermind 📲 Love this episode? Screenshot and share it on social media! Tag us on Instagram at @TheLevelUpCo and let us know your biggest takeaway.The Level Up Co. Resources:- Wedding Planner Email Templates: https://thelevelupco.com/planner-email-template-bundle- Elevated Client Experience Bundle: https://thelevelupco.com/client-experience-bundle- Elevated Shot List: https://thelevelupco.com/elevated-shot-list- The Luxury Framework Course: https://thelevelupco.com/theluxuryframework- The Luxury Pricing Mini Course: https://thelevelupco.com/resetConnect with Taylor , Kelley + The Level Up Co.:🔗Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelevelupco/🔗Taylor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorpetrinovich/🔗Kelley's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/618studios/💻Website: https://thelevelupco.com/

If you’ve ever second-guessed your work, held back from trying something new, or felt the pressure to deliver perfection in every frame, this episode is for you. We’re diving into the art of embracing imperfection in your wedding films and how leaning into raw, honest moments (yes, even the ones with tricky lighting or imperfect angles) can actually elevate your work and serve your clients better.We talk about using black and white footage as a storytelling tool, releasing the pressure to make everything look perfect, and trusting your instincts more than the rules. Because the truth is, the best filmmakers aren’t the ones who never miss focus—they’re the ones who know what really matters in a film.Let this be your permission slip to trust your eye, shoot what feels real, and keep growing into the creative you’re meant to be. You don’t need to do it all flawlessly to make something unforgettable.🎬 Tune in and let’s talk about confidence, creative freedom, and telling stories that feel just right.USE CODE LEVELUP20 FOR 20% OFF ILLUME LUT'S NEW FILM NOIR PRESET PACK 👉  https://illumeluts.com/Timestamps:[00:00 – 02:06] Launching a New Product for Wedding Filmmakers[02:07 – 08:18] Embracing Authenticity Over Perfection in Wedding Films[08:19 – 13:19] How Black and White Footage Can Elevate Storytelling[13:20 – 17:09] Creative Control and Client Experience in Imperfect Lighting[17:10 – 22:28] Using Black and White to Solve Technical Challenges[22:29 – End] Encouraging Evolution in Your Artistic ProcessThe next round of The Luxury Mastermind will start in October 2025! We are thrilled to welcome you inside our signature 12 week program. Learn more + save your seat here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermind 📲 Love this episode? Screenshot and share it on social media! Tag us on Instagram at @TheLevelUpCo and let us know your biggest takeaway.The Level Up Co. Resources:- Wedding Planner Email Templates: https://thelevelupco.com/planner-email-template-bundle- Elevated Client Experience Bundle: https://thelevelupco.com/client-experience-bundle- Elevated Shot List: https://thelevelupco.com/elevated-shot-list- The Luxury Framework Course: https://thelevelupco.com/theluxuryframework- The Luxury Pricing Mini Course: https://thelevelupco.com/resetConnect with Taylor , Kelley + The Level Up Co.:🔗Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelevelupco/🔗Taylor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorpetrinovich/🔗Kelley's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/618studios/💻Website: https://thelevelupco.com/

Have you ever wondered why some creatives seem to book effortlessly while others are left staring at an inbox full of ghosts?In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of the most frustrating parts of running a wedding business, getting ghosted. We’re diving into what’s really going on when a client doesn’t respond, what it might be saying about your brand, and how small shifts in your inquiry process can create big wins in your booking rate 💌Because here’s the truth: it’s not always about your work. Sometimes it’s about the way you show up. How you connect. How you communicate your value and lead the conversation with confidence.We’re talking inquiry systems, website strategy, pricing transparency, and the mindset shifts that separate luxury creatives from everyone else. Whether you’re stuck in a feast-or-famine cycle or just tired of chasing leads that go nowhere, this episode will help you reconnect with the parts of your business you can control and remind you that your next level doesn’t require more hustle… it requires more alignment.Let’s fix the ghosting problem, for good.Timestamps:[00:00 – 03:35] Personal Updates, Community Wins, and the Power of Support Systems[03:36 – 06:47] Why Clients Ghost and What You Can Do to Prevent It[06:48 – 10:13] Transparency in Pricing and the Psychology Behind It[10:14 – 15:24] Responding Quickly and Humanizing Your Inquiry Process[15:25 – 23:57] Website Strategy, Qualified Leads, and Managing Inquiry Volume[23:58 – End] Email Templates, Communication Style, and Booking with ConfidenceThe next round of The Luxury Mastermind will start in October 2025! We are thrilled to welcome you inside our signature 12 week program. Learn more + save your seat here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermind 📲 Love this episode? Screenshot and share it on social media! Tag us on Instagram at @TheLevelUpCo and let us know your biggest takeaway.The Level Up Co. Resources:- Wedding Planner Email Templates: https://thelevelupco.com/planner-email-template-bundle- Elevated Client Experience Bundle: https://thelevelupco.com/client-experience-bundle- Elevated Shot List: https://thelevelupco.com/elevated-shot-list- The Luxury Framework Course: https://thelevelupco.com/theluxuryframework- The Luxury Pricing Mini Course: https://thelevelupco.com/resetConnect with Taylor , Kelley + The Level Up Co.:🔗Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelevelupco/🔗Taylor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorpetrinovich/🔗Kelley's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/618studios/💻Website: https://thelevelupco.com/

Let’s talk about making more money without booking more weddings.In this episode, we’re breaking down how upsells can completely shift your income potential without adding more work to your calendar. And no, we’re not talking about sleazy, awkward, salesy tactics that make you feel gross. We’re talking about value-driven offers that feel like a service, not a pitch.This is about knowing your worth, trusting your expertise, and offering solutions that truly serve your clients and yes, getting paid for it.Because here’s the truth: most wedding creatives are leaving money on the table every single time they book a client. Not because they don’t have something valuable to offer—but because they’re afraid to bring it up.In this episode, we’re flipping that mindset on its head. We’re talking about why upselling doesn’t have to feel gross, how to introduce it without pressure, and what it means to sell from a place of confidence and care.You don’t have to take on more work to make more money.You don’t have to say yes to more bookings just to hit your income goals.You don’t have to stay stuck in the cycle of burnout and busyness.You just need to get clear on your value and start offering it. Let’s go. 💪The next round of The Luxury Mastermind will start in October 2025! We are thrilled to welcome you inside our signature 12 week program. Learn more + save your seat here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermind 📲 Love this episode? Screenshot and share it on social media! Tag us on Instagram at @TheLevelUpCo and let us know your biggest takeaway.The Level Up Co. Resources:- Wedding Planner Email Templates: https://thelevelupco.com/planner-email-template-bundle- Elevated Client Experience Bundle: https://thelevelupco.com/client-experience-bundle- Elevated Shot List: https://thelevelupco.com/elevated-shot-list- The Luxury Framework Course: https://thelevelupco.com/theluxuryframework- The Luxury Pricing Mini Course: https://thelevelupco.com/resetConnect with Taylor , Kelley + The Level Up Co.:🔗Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelevelupco/🔗Taylor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorpetrinovich/🔗Kelley's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/618studios/💻Website: https://thelevelupco.com/

Sometimes the biggest seasons of growth come from the hardest chapters of life.In this episode, we sat down with the incredibly honest and grounded Anna Lord to talk about what it really looks like to evolve your business while navigating personal change—moving cities, processing grief, shifting priorities, starting a family… and doing it all without losing momentum.We talked about letting go of the timeline you thought you had to follow. About redefining what success looks like (and feels like). About giving yourself permission to shift—not just for the sake of your business, but for the sake of your life.And maybe most importantly, we talked about what happens when you stop trying to do it all and start building a support system that actually supports you.If you’ve been feeling the tension of growing your business while also being human, this conversation will remind you: you’re not behind, you’re just in a new chapter. And you’re more capable than you think.No more fear of falling behind.No more pressure to get it perfect.No more doing it all alone.You get to evolve. You get to grow slow. You get to win on your terms.Let’s talk about what that can actually look like. 💛Timestamps:[00:00 – 06:55] Life Updates, Booking Trends, and Shifting Client Behavior[06:56 – 16:06] Moving Markets, Burnout, and Boundaries Through Change[16:07 – 23:44] Destination Work, Pricing Transparency, and Defining Success[23:45 – 36:18] Taking Risks, Starting a Family, and Letting Go of Fear[36:19 – 44:00] Margin, Hobbies, and Creating Space Outside of Work[44:01 – End] Delegation, Support Systems, and Trusting the Long GameConnect with Anna:🔗Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annalord/💻Website: https://annalord.com/The next round of The Luxury Mastermind will start in October 2025! We are thrilled to welcome you inside our signature 12 week program. Learn more + save your seat here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermind 📲 Love this episode? Screenshot and share it on social media! Tag us on Instagram at @TheLevelUpCo and let us know your biggest takeaway.The Level Up Co. Resources:- Wedding Planner Email Templates: https://thelevelupco.com/planner-email-template-bundle- Elevated Client Experience Bundle: https://thelevelupco.com/client-experience-bundle- Elevated Shot List: https://thelevelupco.com/elevated-shot-list- The Luxury Framework Course: https://thelevelupco.com/theluxuryframework- The Luxury Pricing Mini Course: https://thelevelupco.com/resetConnect with Taylor , Kelley + The Level Up Co.:🔗Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelevelupco/🔗Taylor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorpetrinovich/🔗Kelley's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/618studios/💻Website: https://thelevelupco.com/

There’s a reason your business feels like it’s hitting a ceiling—and spoiler alert: it’s not your talent. It’s that you’re still playing by rules that don’t serve the next level you’re aiming for.In this episode, we’re digging into the uncomfortable (but necessary) truth: average is already taken. If you’re still trying to blend in or wait for the perfect moment to make your move, you’re going to stay exactly where you are.We talk about what it really takes to stand out in the wedding industry, especially if you’re a photographer or filmmaker who’s been at it for 2+ years and is ready for more—more income, more visibility, more aligned clients. We’re breaking down mindset shifts, why strategy always comes before aesthetics, and how to build something that actually feels like you—not a copy of someone else’s brand.✨ Ready to stop settling for “safe” and start owning your space in the luxury market? This episode is your wake-up call.[00:00 – 04:45] Why Playing It Safe Is Costing You Growth[04:46 – 07:25] Average Is Already Taken: What It Takes to Stand Out[07:26 – 10:12] Scaling in Small Markets: Dismantling the Big City Myth[10:13 – 13:56] The Tools That Got You Here Won’t Get You There[13:57 – 18:00] Strategy Before Aesthetic: Rethinking the Rebrand Timeline[18:01 – End] Fear, Timing, and the Truth About Leveling UpThe next round of The Luxury Mastermind will start in October 2025! We are thrilled to welcome you inside our signature 12 week program. Learn more + save your seat here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermind 📲 Love this episode? Screenshot and share it on social media! Tag us on Instagram at @TheLevelUpCo and let us know your biggest takeaway.The Level Up Co. Resources:- Wedding Planner Email Templates: https://thelevelupco.com/planner-email-template-bundle- Elevated Client Experience Bundle: https://thelevelupco.com/client-experience-bundle- Elevated Shot List: https://thelevelupco.com/elevated-shot-list- The Luxury Framework Course: https://thelevelupco.com/theluxuryframework- The Luxury Pricing Mini Course: https://thelevelupco.com/resetConnect with Taylor , Kelley + The Level Up Co.:🔗Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelevelupco/🔗Taylor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorpetrinovich/🔗Kelley's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/618studios/💻Website: https://thelevelupco.com/

Doors to The Luxury Mastermind are officially OPEN 🥂Learn more + enroll here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermindThere’s a reason we can’t stop talking about Taylor Swift—and no, it’s not just the music. It’s the evolution. The reinvention. The unapologetic confidence.In this episode, we’re breaking down what creatives like us can learn from someone who’s mastered the art of owning her narrative, leading with clarity, and growing on her own terms. Because let’s be honest—your business has eras, too.We’re talking about the mindset shifts that help you move out of your “fearful freshman” era and into your “confident CEO” era.About what happens when you stop trying to be everything to everyone—and start leading like the expert you already are.And about how luxury isn’t luck… it’s strategy, vision, and knowing when it’s time to turn the page.Even if you're not a full-blown Swiftie or even if you don’t care for her at all, you'll walk away from this episode with a fresh perspective on your business, your brand, and what it takes to grow with intention.✨ You don’t have to wait for permission.✨ You don’t have to stay in your mid-level pricing era forever.✨ You get to write your next chapter—boldly.Whether you’re ready to raise your rates, elevate your brand, or step into a new season of growth—this episode will leave you inspired to go for it.Because your next era? It starts the moment you decide it’s time. 💫Timestamps:[00:00 – 02:00] Behind the Scenes of the Mastermind: Who It’s For and What to Expect[02:01 – 08:15] Resonance Over Perfection: What High-End Clients Really Care About[08:16 – 13:45] Leading with Strength: How Successful Creatives Maximize What They’re Best At[13:46 – 19:00] Reinventing Your Brand: Why Evolution Is Essential for Growth[19:01 – 24:30] White-Glove Service: Elevating Your Client Experience in the Luxury Market[24:31 – 28:00] Owning Your Narrative: Showing Up with Confidence and Clarity[28:01 – End] Final Takeaways + An Invitation to Step Into Your Next LevelThe next round of The Luxury Mastermind will start in October 2025! We are thrilled to welcome you inside our signature 12 week program. Learn more + save your seat here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermind 📲 Love this episode? Screenshot and share it on social media! Tag us on Instagram at @TheLevelUpCo and let us know your biggest takeaway.The Level Up Co. Resources:- Wedding Planner Email Templates: https://thelevelupco.com/planner-email-template-bundle- Elevated Client Experience Bundle: https://thelevelupco.com/client-experience-bundle- Elevated Shot List: https://thelevelupco.com/elevated-shot-list- The Luxury Framework Course: https://thelevelupco.com/theluxuryframework- The Luxury Pricing Mini Course: https://thelevelupco.com/resetConnect with Taylor , Kelley + The Level Up Co.:🔗Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelevelupco/🔗Taylor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorpetrinovich/🔗Kelley's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/618studios/💻Website: https://thelevelupco.com/

Doors to The Luxury Mastermind are officially OPEN 🥂Learn more + enroll here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermindIt’s not just the portfolio. It’s not just the price tag. And it’s definitely not just the gear.If you’ve been wondering what actually sets luxury photographers and filmmakers apart from everyone else—this episode is your invitation to pull back the curtain and find out.In this conversation, we’re breaking down the mindset shifts and business moves that position you for high-end bookings (without guessing or hoping someone “discovers” you). Because here’s the truth: luxury isn’t about luck. It’s about intention.We’re diving into what luxury creatives are doing differently—like showing up as the leader their clients are looking for, building brands that feel cohesive and aligned, and prioritizing the experience just as much as the work itself.You don’t have to wonder if it’s possible for you.You don’t have to keep playing small.You don’t have to wait until someone gives you permission.If you’re ready to stop crossing your fingers and start positioning your brand for the clients you actually want—this one’s for you. 🚀Listen now and let’s get you out of the guessing game and into the room where luxury bookings happen. 💥Timestamps[00:00 – 04:40] What Separates Luxury Creatives from the Rest (Intro + Workshop Invitation)[04:41 – 09:45] Why Brand Consistency is Non-Negotiable in the Luxury Market[09:46 – 17:25] The Power of Leadership: How Taking the Lead Builds Trust with High-End Clients[17:26 – 25:40] Becoming Selective: Why Intentional Client Alignment Sets You Apart[25:41 – 32:10] Prioritizing the Client Experience Over the Final Product[32:11 – End] The Importance of Intentional Online Presence & Final TakeawaysThe next round of The Luxury Mastermind will start in October 2025! We are thrilled to welcome you inside our signature 12 week program. Learn more + save your seat here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermind 📲 Love this episode? Screenshot and share it on social media! Tag us on Instagram at @TheLevelUpCo and let us know your biggest takeaway.The Level Up Co. Resources:- Wedding Planner Email Templates: https://thelevelupco.com/planner-email-template-bundle- Elevated Client Experience Bundle: https://thelevelupco.com/client-experience-bundle- Elevated Shot List: https://thelevelupco.com/elevated-shot-list- The Luxury Framework Course: https://thelevelupco.com/theluxuryframework- The Luxury Pricing Mini Course: https://thelevelupco.com/resetConnect with Taylor , Kelley + The Level Up Co.:🔗Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelevelupco/🔗Taylor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorpetrinovich/🔗Kelley's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/618studios/💻Website: https://thelevelupco.com/

Doors to The Luxury Mastermind are officially OPEN 🥂Learn more + enroll here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermindYou didn’t start this business to feel overworked, underpaid, and creatively drained. But somehow, between booking too many weddings and saying yes to everything, you’ve found yourself stuck in the cycle.If you’ve ever thought, “I love what I do… but I can’t keep doing it like this,” this episode is for you.We're talking about what it really looks like to create a business that supports your life—not one that takes it over. The kind of business where you’re shooting less, earning more, and finally attracting the kind of clients who light you up.Spoiler: It’s not about having the perfect portfolio. It’s about mindset, clarity, and the willingness to say no to what no longer fits.You are allowed to pivot.You are allowed to charge more.You are allowed to work less.If you’ve been craving space, freedom, and a business that feels good again—this episode is your sign to take the first step 💥You’re in the driver’s seat. Time to take the wheel. 🏁Timestamps:[00:00 – 01:07] Intro to the episode and guest welcome[01:08 – 07:21] Starting a photography business, early reinvestment strategy, and focusing on elevated client experience[07:22 – 14:45] Choosing mentorship over gear, investing in education, and building aligned relationships with coaches[14:46 – 20:25] From burnout to balance: shifting from budget bookings to destination luxury and reclaiming personal time[20:26 – 25:12] The mindset and branding shifts that led to premium pricing and a new level of growth[25:13 – 32:50] Mastermind takeaways, the value of networking, social media strategy, and advice for those ready to invest in their growthConnect with Kristen:🔗Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristenthomison/💻Website: https://kristenthomison.com/The next round of The Luxury Mastermind will start in October 2025! We are thrilled to welcome you inside our signature 12 week program. Learn more + save your seat here >> https://thelevelupco.com/mastermind 📲 Love this episode? Screenshot and share it on social media! Tag us on Instagram at @TheLevelUpCo and let us know your biggest takeaway.The Level Up Co. Resources:- Wedding Planner Email Templates: https://thelevelupco.com/planner-email-template-bundle- Elevated Client Experience Bundle: https://thelevelupco.com/client-experience-bundle- Elevated Shot List: https://thelevelupco.com/elevated-shot-list- The Luxury Framework Course: https://thelevelupco.com/theluxuryframework- The Luxury Pricing Mini Course: https://thelevelupco.com/resetConnect with Taylor , Kelley + The Level Up Co.:🔗Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelevelupco/🔗Taylor's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorpetrinovich/🔗Kelley's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/618studios/💻Website: https://thelevelupco.com/