E7: Photography Education and Community: Why Investing in Yourself Changes Everything (Live from Reset!)
The Truth About Photography Education and Community
Let’s be real: photography education and community are what actually build strong, lasting photography businesses—not just snapping pretty pictures.
It’s managing clients, running a business, mastering your craft, editing until your eyeballs burn—and somehow still trying to make dinner before 9 p.m.
When I started, I thought a fancy camera and good presets were enough.
Spoiler alert: they weren’t.
What actually made a difference?
You guessed it—photography education and community.
Why Photography Education and Community Are Game Changers
Every course I took, every workshop I joined, and every retreat I attended added fuel to my fire and shortcuts to my process. Photography education and community didn’t just level up my skills—they kept me sane.
Through education, I learned how to:
- Pose seniors without the awkward arm flailing
- Shoot in harsh light (hello, destination senior photographer dreams!)
- Actually use my editing software without wanting to cry
And here’s the kicker: every workshop wasn’t just about technique—it opened doors to the photography community that changed everything.
👉 Want to see how education sparks real growth? Check out Kellie Rochelle’s Senior Photography Resources!
The People Make It Powerful: Finding Your Photographer Family
Beyond the technical skills, it’s the photographer friends who have been the biggest gift.
It’s the women who:
- Drop a quick tip in my inbox without being asked
- Invite me to life-changing retreats and workshops
- Understand the chaos of balancing motherhood and a full client load
When you invest in photography education and community, you’re not just learning how to use your camera—you’re finding your people.
💬 As Jenna Kutcher says, “Community over competition is where real magic happens.” And friends, it’s true.
Unexpected Perks of Photography Education and Community
You know what they don’t tell you? The real bonuses:
- Friends scattered across the country to visit (or crash with!)
- Dreamy travel inspo from styled shoots
- Secret location tips you’ll never find on Google (shoutout to Nancy for the Oregon Coast gem)
Honestly, photography education and community have brought me opportunities I didn’t even know how to dream about.
✨ If you’re craving more inspiration for your next shoot, check out this post ➡️ “Insert link to: [Senior Travel Session Inspo Blog]” once published.
Final Thoughts: Say Yes to Growth
If you’re on the fence about signing up for that course, that retreat, or that mastermind—this is your neon sign, bestie:
Do it.
Photography education and community don’t just sharpen your skillset. They fuel your fire, keep you inspired, and finally make you realize you’re not building your business alone.
🎁 Want a head start? Grab Kellie’s Senior Questionnaire – The Ultimate Client Experience Tool!
💡 Join Sarah’s AI Unlocked: A 15-Day AI Challenge for Photographers and learn how to streamline your biz like a boss.
🎧 Tune in to RAW Edit Podcast Episode 7: Photography Education and Community: Why Investing in Yourself Changes Everything (Live from Reset!) — and hear it all straight from Reset!
You’ve got this—and you don’t have to do it alone.
Mentions:
Reset Conference – https://theresetconference.com/
The Round Table & Root to Rise – https://sabrinagebhardt.com/education-for-professional-photographers/
Unraveled Academy – https://www.theunraveledacademy.com/
Clickin Moms – https://www.theclickcommunity.com/
Subscribe & download the episode to your device: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music
About Raw Edit
Hosted by Kellie Rochelle and Sarah Monson, two photographers who have been through all the highs and lows, this podcast is your safe space for honest conversations about what it actually takes to thrive in this industry.
Each week, we’re bringing you behind-the-scenes stories, industry insights, and hard-earned lessons—so you can skip the mistakes and fast-track your success!
🌐 Connect with Us:
Kellie Rochelle Photography
- Website: https://kellierochelle.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellierochellephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kellierochellephotography/
Sarah Monson Photography
- Website: https://smonsonphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmonsonphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SarahMonsonPhotography
