What Actually Mattered in Photography for Us in 2025

In this episode, we’re looking back at our favorite photography moments or "things" from 2025 and spoiler alert, none of them involve shiny new gear. We talk about the things that actually mattered this year: building a community that feels supportive and alive, reconnecting with the joy of photography, embracing exploration and growth, and watching photographers step into confidence right in front of our eyes. From deep conversations about AI and creativity, to meaningful time spent on a working ranch during calving season, this episode is all about care, commitment, and why the people and experiences behind the camera matter more than anything else.

Today we’re pulling back the barn door and taking you inside our very first year of running the Cowgirls With Cameras online community. From the moment inspiration struck on a long drive home from Cottonwood, to wrestling with platform setups, to celebrating member wins, shared wisdom, and all the friendship that’s bloomed along the way… this episode is one big heart-to-heart about what it really takes to build a thriving equine photography hub in a noisy digital world.We share why we built this community, what we’ve learned, the unexpected joys, and how the space has grown into a true gathering place for equine photographers who want connection, education, and a place where they can finally tune out the noise and focus on their craft.We talk about:• Why social media wasn’t the long-term home creatives deserve• How our Resource Barn came to life (and what’s inside)• The power of member-to-member learning• Why equine photographers need a dedicated place to grow• Behind-the-scenes moments, laughs, learning curves, and triumphs• What’s coming next — lives, editing challenges, mini-lessons, and moreIf you're curious about joining us — or simply love hearing how real creative communities are built — this is your campfire moment.Come on over to cowgirlswithcameras.community and see what we’ve built.Links referenced in this episode:cowgirlswithcameras.community

In this episode, we saddle up and ride straight into the wild territory of doing the “hard things” — the ones that stretch you, scare you a little, and make you a better photographer and a stronger human. We talk about choosing the right kind of hard… the kind that calls to you from deep inside, not the kind the world thinks you should be doing.You’ll hear how breaking big, intimidating goals into bite-sized trail markers makes the journey not just doable, but actually fun. And we share why having a loyal posse — whether it’s a mastermind group, your creative herd, or your trail-ride buddies — can make the difference between stalling out at the gate and crossing the finish line with dusty boots and a victory grin.This one’s all about honest mindset discussions, real-talk photography growth, and finding the courage to chase the challenges that light you up. So grab your hat, tighten your cinch, and let’s ride into the good kind of hard together.Takeaways Mindset is your saddle: if it’s not cinched up right, nothing else is going to sit comfortably — in photography or business.Not all “hard things” are worth your energy. Learning to pick the ones your soul is actually craving is part of the adventure.Perfectionism? She’s the dusty outlaw trying to slow you down. Progress — even messy, crooked, imperfect progress — is what gets you across the prairie.A supportive community is your herd. Big challenges get a whole lot easier when you’re not riding that trail alone.Links referenced in this episode:cowgirlswithcameras.comcowgirlswithcameras.community

In this mindset-focused episode of Cowgirls with Cameras, we’re getting real about the mistakes that taught us the most — and how they changed the way we think, work, and show up as photographers. Kim opens up about the trap of people-pleasing and the importance of setting realistic expectations with clients, even when it feels uncomfortable. Cara shares the story of an entire day of holiday mini-sessions gone wrong thanks to a broken lens, and how that moment redefined her understanding of professionalism — learning that recovery builds more trust than perfection ever could. Phyllis reflects on a painful early-career lesson about protecting her work and setting clear boundaries after a client used her images without permission, and how that experience reshaped her approach to contracts and communication. Together, we explore how the biggest growth in our photography businesses often comes from the hardest lessons — and why mistakes, handled with honesty and intention, can become our greatest teachers.

In this Cowgirls with Cameras episode, we’re talking about how to level up your photography business by becoming a more professional, trusted, and connected photographer. Step one is to show up as your future self—create a clear vision for where you want your photography career to be in three to five years, and bring that confidence and professionalism into every client interaction. Step two is to get involved and learn the culture around you. Whether you photograph horses, families, or brands, being active in your photography community builds trust and visibility. Attend local events, invest in continuing education, network with other photographers, and look for ways to serve your community without always selling. Step three is to focus on being a good human in business. Share authentic behind-the-scenes moments, own your mistakes, respond to negativity with professionalism, give credit where it’s due, and build a reputation for kindness, reliability, and respect. When you approach photography with professionalism, connection, and authenticity, your business naturally grows—and so does your community.

In this episode of Cowgirls with Cameras, we’re tackling one of the most important ways you can elevate your photography business: upping your professionalism with contracts, policies, and procedures. From creating step-by-step systems that save time and build consistency, to tailoring contracts that protect both you and your clients, we cover the essentials every equine photographer needs. You’ll learn why contracts are more than legal paperwork, they’re a communication tool and a form of customer service. We also share how to train yourself to stick to your own systems, set clear expectations with clients, and use policies to create smoother sessions and faster artwork delivery. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your business, this episode gives you the tools to feel confident, consistent, and prepared to grow.

Is your marketing in your photography business feeling a little stale? In this episode of Cowgirls with Cameras, we share fresh strategies to help photographers stay visible, relevant, and connected in today’s noisy world. From using AI and ChatGPT to boost your online presence, to the timeless power of in-person networking, we cover the modern and traditional tools that actually work. You’ll learn how to fine-tune your website for keywords, strengthen your social profiles, build authentic word-of-mouth buzz, and explore underused channels like voice drops, SMS marketing, and paid social ads. Whether you’re looking to attract more local equestrians or fill your calendar with dream sessions, these tips will give your photography marketing the refresh it needs.

In this episode of Cowgirls with Cameras, we explore current trends in digital marketing for photographers and how to make them work for your business. From nurturing your audience instead of bombarding them, to the shift toward authenticity over perfection on social media, to using content series alongside powerful standalones, you’ll learn practical ways to boost engagement, build trust, and reach new clients. Packed with strategies that blend professionalism with personality, this conversation will help you stand out and stay relevant in today’s fast-changing online world.

In this episode of Cowgirls with Cameras, we’re diving into best practices for working with models in equine photography. From finding the right people through barns, shows, and model calls to setting clear expectations around time, wardrobe, grooming, and image use, we cover everything you need to know to create a smooth, professional, and positive experience. You’ll learn how to communicate clearly before, during, and after a shoot, handle "Time For Photos" versus paid arrangements, put solid agreements in place, and nurture ongoing relationships with great models. Whether you’re building your portfolio, licensing stock imagery, or creating content for clients, these tips will help you work confidently with models and their horses while protecting your business and ensuring a successful collaboration.

In this episode of Cowgirls with Cameras, we’re diving into how working with models can elevate both your photography portfolio and your clients’ marketing. From building a stock image library full of authentic equestrian moments to creating targeted branding campaigns, we share strategies for selecting the right models, planning shoots that reflect your brand, and producing evergreen content that sells year-round. You’ll learn how to fill gaps in your image collection, capture the everyday beauty of horse life, manage agreements and releases, and foster lasting relationships with models who help you tell compelling stories. Whether you’re a professional equine photographer or looking to grow your brand presence, this episode is packed with tips to make your next model collaboration a success.A huge thank you to Bay Photo Lab for supporting our event! We’ve trusted them for years to make our images and artwork shine with their industry-leading MetalPrints, stunning Wall Displays, handcrafted Albums, and so much more. When we pour our hearts into photographing the perfect moment, we know Bay Photo will deliver—because behind every product is a team of photographers, artists, and craftspeople who truly understand our vision. Learn more Professional Photo Printing Products & Services | Bay Photo Lab