Carissa Spencer: Why Slowing Down Might Be the Best Career Move You Make

Episode Summary In this episode of Artist Date, I sit down with Edmonton wedding photographer Carissa Spencer for a thoughtful conversation about burnout, motherhood, creativity, and redefining success. We talk about building a photography business that feels sustainable, learning to slow down in an industry that constantly pushes for more, and creating space for the things that matter most. Carissa shares her journey from second shooting weddings to photographing destination celebrations around the world, while finding a deeper sense of alignment both personally and professionally. Key Takeaways Success looks different for everyone. Building a meaningful career starts with defining success for yourself instead of chasing someone else's version of it. Slowing down creates clarity. Taking intentional pauses can help you reconnect with your creativity, values, and long-term vision. You don't need to say yes to everything. Boundaries are essential for building a sustainable business and protecting your energy. Your personal life fuels your creative life. Pursuing interests outside of photography can make you a stronger artist, business owner, and human. Comparison creates noise. The more attention you give to your own path, the easier it becomes to make decisions that align with your goals. Connection is at the heart of photography. The relationships we build often become the most meaningful part of the work. Growth requires regular reflection. The version of yourself who started your business may not be the same person running it today. Presence is a creative advantage. Some of the most important moments happen when we stop chasing what's next and fully experience where we are. Loved this conversation? If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Follow along for more conversations with photographers, artists, and creatives: Instagram: @carissamariephotography Instagram: @nicoleromanoffphoto Instagram: @artistdatepodcast You can also watch full episodes on YouTube by searching Artist Date Podcast. New episodes drop every other Tuesday.