How I Built This: Rachel Larsen Weaver

Episode Title: How I Built This with Rachel Larsen WeaverGuest: Rachel Larsen Weaver, Family Photographer (Long-Form Sessions), Washington, DC areaWe Discuss:Rachel’s early career in restaurants and teaching and how those skills translated into photographyStarting photography through blogging and realizing “documenting” is different than being hired to lead and create imagesBuilding a business without a template and why that actually helped her develop a distinct voiceThe 2019 educational turning point that clarified her creative directionWhy mini sessions flopped for her and how that failure pointed her toward long-form sessions insteadHow long-form sessions took off and became a defining offer in her businessNavigating mentorship, including a harmful experience that shaped her commitment to inclusive, affirming workChoosing educators and coaches wisely and why “great photographer” doesn’t always equal “great teacher”The role pricing plays in attracting aligned clients and protecting the experienceWhy she shoots almost exclusively on film now, and how that supports her workflow and profitabilityHiring an assistant and how that changed her capacity, consistency, and creative energyThe “loving gaze” concept and how she trains her eye and heart to see people with depth and dignityLightning round topics: systems, film preferences, business decisions, time freedom vs financial freedomTLDR:Rachel built her business by getting her reps in, honing her voice, and making offers that match how she actually likes to work.A mini-session flop became a turning point that pushed her toward long-form sessions, which booked fast and fit her clients better.Pricing, clarity in marketing, and a values-forward approach helped her attract clients who are invested in the experience.Shooting film and outsourcing scanning simplifies her workflow so she can spend more time photographing and marketing.The way she sees people is not accidental. It’s practiced, intentional, and foundational to the work.Resources:Learn more about Rachel: https://www.instagram.com/rachel.larsen.weaver/Book mentioned: Beauty: The Invisible Embrace by John O’Donohue