E8: The Secret Weapon Photographers Didn’t Know They Needed: ChatGPT
Photographers, we need to have a little heart-to-heart. There’s a tool making serious waves in the creative world right now—and it’s called ChatGPT (or as we like to call it: Buddy). Whether you’re already sneaking it into your workflow or side-eyeing it like a red flag inquiry, Buddy could be the best assistant you never knew you needed.
We get it—AI sounds overwhelming. You’re already juggling editing marathons, client inquiries, and maybe a toddler or two. Adding another tool feels impossible. But listen—once you see what ChatGPT can do for your photography business, you’ll wonder how you survived without it.
Let’s get real: today we’re diving into why ChatGPT is every photographer’s new best friend, how it actually fits into your workflow without stealing your soul, and how to talk to it to get what you need—without sounding like a robot.
First Things First: ChatGPT Is Not Coming for Your Job
Breathe easy.
There are 97 million AI-related jobs projected to be created soon. And guess what? 82% of photographers are already using AI for things like editing and culling. Buddy isn’t here to replace you. It’s here to make your job easier, faster, and honestly? Way more fun.
Tools like AfterShoot and Imagen are out here culling and editing faster than any of us ever could—we’re talking 10,000 times faster. Imagine the hours you’ll get back. Imagine creating more magic and less burnout. AI isn’t the enemy. It’s your secret weapon.
➡️ Want more photography tips? Check out this post on outscourcing- the game changer you NEED!
Why We Call It Buddy (And Why You Should Too)
Let’s be honest—“ChatGPT” sounds like the name of a malfunctioning robot. But Buddy? Buddy feels right. Like a chill assistant who knows your vibe, your client love language, and even your favorite way to politely say no to nightmare inquiries.
The paid version? Totally worth it.
For $20/month, Buddy remembers your voice, your offers, your absolute NOPEs—and delivers gold every time you need help writing something.
Pro tip: Treat it like your ride-or-die assistant. The closer you get? The more it gets you.
Real Ways We Use ChatGPT Every Single Day
If you think ChatGPT is just for tech bros and essay cheats, think again. Here’s how photographers like us are using Buddy every dang day:
- Writing blog posts while voice-texting on the drive home
- Drafting nurture sequences (so you don’t ghost your email list)
- Writing captions and replies that sound like you, not a robot
- Creating ad copy that actually makes people click
- Building marketing plans and vision boards
- Organizing client workflows with custom folders (hello, senior sessions!)
Need a Pinterest pin, a reel hook, or even a mascara rec? Buddy’s got you. And if you’re planning your next senior adventure session or refreshing your website, Buddy’s the ultimate co-pilot.
➡️ Want more inspiration? Here’s a senior session that might spark ideas!
How to Write a Good Prompt (Because Yes, It Matters)
Here’s the tea: Bad prompts = bad results.
A bad prompt:
“Write a social media caption for a senior session.”
A great prompt:
“Write a bold, emotional 1500-character Instagram caption about a senior adventure session in the Badlands, highlighting golden hour lighting. End with a CTA to book next year’s sessions.”
More details = better results.
More YOU = better Buddy.
You can even ask Buddy to match your tone of voice (yep, bold and emotional) and follow SEO guidelines. Need it to sound a little unhinged because you’re launching something exciting? Done.
Bonus Tip: Ask ChatGPT to Learn You
Start here:
“Hey Buddy, what do you need to know about my business to help me write blogs, emails, and social content?”
It’ll ask questions. You answer. Then boom: it remembers your heart, your offers, your people. It doesn’t just help you—it feels like it’s rooting for you.
➡️ Pro move: Save your favorite prompts and use them again and again. Buddy loves consistency.
One More Thing…
We’re not about gatekeeping.
If you want even more AI gold, Sarah (one of our favs) sends out a free weekly ChatGPT prompt for photographers every Tuesday. It’s packed with ideas for emails, blogs, carousels, you name it. Sign up here and let’s make your marketing feel way less overwhelming.
Final Takeaway: Smarter Workflows, Less Stress, More Freedom
Here’s your next move:
Stop playing with the free version. Invest the $20.
Start using ChatGPT like your creative sidekick. Talk to Buddy like you’re texting your best friend. Let the magic happen.
Try it for one month.
Write your next senior blog post with it—or better yet, rebuild your whole marketing funnel.
Less stress. More magic.
We’re never going back—and you don’t have to either.
🎧 Hit play, grab your favorite snack, and let’s get RAW.
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
🎧 Subscribe and Listen: If you loved this episode, subscribe to RAW Edit and never miss an unfiltered conversation!
