The Human Algorithm

Episode 19 of the The Business Focused Photographer Podcast podcast, hosted by Jill C. Smith, titled "The Human Algorithm" was published on January 7, 2026 and runs 52 minutes.

January 7, 2026 ·52m · The Business Focused Photographer Podcast

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Summary

Episode Title: The Human Algorithm: Networking as a Photographer with Tiffany CrenshawGuest: Tiffany Crenshaw, Animal House Photography, North AlabamaWe Discuss:Why Tiffany calls networking “the human algorithm” and why it still beats chasing social media trendsHow her background as a second grade teacher shaped her relationship building skills (and her business success)Moving to Alabama on March 1, 2020 and building momentum anyway through virtual coffee datesThe “client adjacent” strategy: building relationships with doulas, small business owners, and other connector peopleHow one small market turned into years of high value repeat clients (including a $6,000 family purchase)Why people skills matter as much as photo skills, and how client experience starts before the session even happensWhat actually works at booths and vendor events: samples, albums, wall art, and making your setup stop trafficUsing QR codes and email list tags to track where leads come from and follow up intentionallyGetting creative with in person visibility: iPhone photo classes, beginner camera workshops, pop ups, and client eventsHow Tiffany thinks about quarterly goals for in person networking and how she audits events before committingReal talk about confidence dips after price increases and why timing matters (January vs fall)Tiffany’s membership model and how repeat clients create predictable income and less workTLDR:Tiffany Crenshaw breaks down why in person networking is one of the most underrated marketing strategies for photographers. From coffee dates with “client adjacent” professionals to vendor events, workshops, and client appreciation experiences, Tiffany shares practical ways to become top of mind in your community without relying on algorithms. If you want more aligned clients, better referrals, and a marketing strategy that actually feels sustainable, this one will hit.Resources:Follow Tiffany’s business education on Instagram: @TiffanyCrenshawEduSee Tiffany’s photography work: Animal House PhotographyTiffany’s group coaching program: Booked and Balanced (starts January 8)

Episode Description

Episode Title: The Human Algorithm: Networking as a Photographer with Tiffany Crenshaw

Guest: Tiffany Crenshaw, Animal House Photography, North Alabama

We Discuss:

Why Tiffany calls networking “the human algorithm” and why it still beats chasing social media trends
How her background as a second grade teacher shaped her relationship building skills (and her business success)
Moving to Alabama on March 1, 2020 and building momentum anyway through virtual coffee dates
The “client adjacent” strategy: building relationships with doulas, small business owners, and other connector people
How one small market turned into years of high value repeat clients (including a $6,000 family purchase)
Why people skills matter as much as photo skills, and how client experience starts before the session even happens
What actually works at booths and vendor events: samples, albums, wall art, and making your setup stop traffic
Using QR codes and email list tags to track where leads come from and follow up intentionally
Getting creative with in person visibility: iPhone photo classes, beginner camera workshops, pop ups, and client events
How Tiffany thinks about quarterly goals for in person networking and how she audits events before committing
Real talk about confidence dips after price increases and why timing matters (January vs fall)
Tiffany’s membership model and how repeat clients create predictable income and less work

TLDR:
Tiffany Crenshaw breaks down why in person networking is one of the most underrated marketing strategies for photographers. From coffee dates with “client adjacent” professionals to vendor events, workshops, and client appreciation experiences, Tiffany shares practical ways to become top of mind in your community without relying on algorithms. If you want more aligned clients, better referrals, and a marketing strategy that actually feels sustainable, this one will hit.

Resources: