networking: why, how, + encouragement

This episode is all about networking… but not in the weird or forced “hand out business cards” kind of way.I’m sitting down with Noella, who somehow knows EVERYONE lol. When she came to Charleston, we grabbed lunch and she already knew so many of my photographer friends. Then at WPPI, it felt like every person we ran into knew her too.So I had to ask… how??In this episode, we’re breaking down what networking actually looks like in the photography world, what people get wrong about it, and how to build real relationships that don’t feel fake or transactional.We talk about what to do when you walk into a conference or retreat and don’t know anyone, how to follow up after meeting people, and how to actually turn those first interactions into genuine friendships.We also get into why this matters more than you think. Not just for your business, but for your experience in this industry as a whole.If you’ve ever wanted to put yourself out there more but didn’t really know how to do it in a way that feels natural, this one’s for you :)Connect with Noella:@noellaandres_______🎉MENTORSHIPS If you’re craving direction in your photo business, want real, honest guidance, or just wanna hang with me in person—my 1:1 mentorships are open (in person or virtual)! https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/servicesLET’S CONNECT 🫶 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexblakephotoTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/AlexblakephotoFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexblakephotographySTUFF I SWEAR BY 🫡 My Gear, Bible Stuff, + Life Faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/alexblakeottoPass Gallery – 1 Month Free: https://alexblakephotography.passgallery.com/referralAI Editing (30-Day Free Trial): https://aftershoot.com/friends/?ref=alexottoHoneyBook Discount (Get organized!): https://share.honeybook.com/alex89263Merch, Presets, & More: https://www.alexblakeeducation.com/PHOTO CAMP INFO 🌊⛺️  https://www.photocampinfo.com