S2 Bonus: The One About Wedding Photography Pressure, Finding Your Style & Booking Clients with Marissa Naylor

🎙️ Episode OverviewWhat does it really take to be a wedding photographer—and is it actually for everyone?In this episode of The One Behind the Lens, Kate sits down with wedding photographer Marissa Naylor to talk about the real, behind-the-scenes truth of the industry.Marissa has been photographing weddings for over a decade and has built a business rooted in connection, storytelling, and creating an experience that goes far beyond just taking photos.During the conversation, Kate and Marissa dive into one of the biggest realities of wedding photography—the pressure.From capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments to navigating emotions, timelines, and expectations, Marissa shares what it’s really like to be behind the lens on a wedding day. If you’re a photographer trying to figure out your niche, grow your business, or understand what wedding photography really looks like—this episode is for you.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Why Kate stepped away from weddings01:00 – What Marissa photographs (weddings, couples, branding)02:00 – The reality of wedding photography workload03:00 – The pressure of “you only get one shot”05:00 – Meet Marissa + how she got started07:30 – Self-taught photography journey09:00 – Balancing photography with a full-time job12:00 – How to decide which clients to take on14:00 – Candid vs posed wedding photography16:00 – Turning clients into real relationships19:00 – Why people feel awkward in front of the camera21:00 – Social media pressure + expectations23:00 – Athletics, pressure, and photography26:00 – What clients should feel after a session28:00 – Why family photos matter more than you think31:00 – Business growth challenges32:30 – Using AI without losing your voice37:00 – Finding your photography style40:00 – Why showing your face on social media matters43:00 – Rapid fire round45:00 – Photo confession booth 😅48:00 – Community over competition in photographyShow NotesIn this episode of The One Behind the Lens, Kate sits down with wedding photographer Marissa Naylor to talk about the real, behind-the-scenes truth of the industry.Marissa has been photographing weddings for over a decade and has built a business rooted in connection, storytelling, and creating an experience that goes far beyond just taking photos.During the conversation, Kate and Marissa dive into one of the biggest realities of wedding photography. Marissa shares what it’s really like to be behind the lens on a wedding day.You’ll also hear how Marissa balances photography alongside her marketing career, her thoughts on using AI in your business without losing your personal touch, and why showing up as yourself on social media is more important than ever.Meet Our GuestMarissa Naylor is a wedding and branding photographer based in Canada, serving clients in Winnipeg, Manitoba and Ontario.With over 10 years of experience, Marissa is known for her candid, emotion-driven approach to photography and her ability to turn clients into lifelong relationships.Alongside her photography business, she also works in marketing, bringing a unique perspective to how photographers can connect with their audience and grow sustainable businesses.When she’s not photographing weddings or working in marketing, Marissa is a competitive athlete representing Team Canada in bowling.A Quote From Marissa“Clients aren’t just booking your photos anymore—they’re booking YOU.” Connect with MarissaWebsitehttps://www.marissanaylorphoto.caInstagram: @marissanaylorphotographyEnjoyed the Episode?• Follow The One Behind the Lens• Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform• Share this episode with a photographer friendYour support helps more photographers discover the show ✨