Creative Campfire: Conversations for Creative Entrepreneurs

Shelly Waldman
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A show for the creative freelancer. Pull up a chair by the fire for candid conversations about the creative entrepreneur and freelancing. Hosted by Shelly Waldman, this show is for photographers, filmmakers, web/graphic designers and creative entrepreneurs working in advertising, brand storytelling, and content creation. We talk pricing, pitching, mindset, money, and the messy middle — with insights from Shelly and guests who share their expertise, mindset, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories of what life and business really looks like.

  1. 6D AGO

    EP: 25 You’re Allowed to Change Your Mind with Danae Karachaliou of Writing Pajamas

    The Squiggly Line Career & The Courage to Pivot with Danae Karachaliou of Writing Pajamas In this episode of Creative Campfire, Shelly sits down with Danae Karachaliou — founder of Writing Pajamas — to talk about career pivots, identity shifts, and what it really means to build something that feels aligned. From pharmacy school to food photography to copywriting, Danae’s path is anything but linear. But as she shares, the thread was always there — writing. This conversation dives into: What happens when the dream you built no longer fits The difference between creating for yourself vs. clients Why talking about the thing you want to do matters (before you’re doing it) How to reintroduce yourself after a major pivot Why marketing is shifting from strategy-heavy to human-first The danger of outsourcing your creativity to AI And why you’re allowed to change your mind One of the biggest takeaways? “The worst thing you can do is outsource your brain power and creativity.” We also explore what ethical marketing looks like today, how brands like Patagonia changed the game, and why personality-driven copy is becoming the future. If you're in the middle of a pivot — or quietly questioning your next chapter — this one is for you. Links & Resources Mentioned Danae KarachaliouWebsite: https://writingpajamas.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/writingpajamas Social Life (community run by Xanthe Appleyard) doors open again March 23! A special ⁠link just for my campers Episode 7 with Xanthe Appleyard (Social Life founder) Patagonia (brand example discussed) The Moth (storytelling organization mentioned) 99% Invisible (podcast referenced) Roman Mars (host of 99% Invisible) Reuters article Meta is earning a fortune on a deluge of fraudulent ads Tools mentioned: ChatGPT Claude Grammarly Gemini Topics We Cover Squiggly careers & nonlinear growth Going back to a 9–5 to support a pivot Sharing (or not sharing) the messy middle Ethical brands & human-centered marketing Personality-led copywriting AI as a tool vs. AI as a crutch Marketing trends shifting toward connection Host bio: Shelly Waldman hosts Creative Campfire, a podcast for creatives who want more — more clarity, more community, more confidence, more financial stability, and more honest conversations about what it really takes to build a business. With a career spanning finance, commercial photography, and education, Shelly brings both heart and numbers to the table. She’s passionate about helping creatives understand their value, navigate growth, and create businesses that feel aligned and abundant. Whether she’s interviewing industry leaders or sharing her own lessons learned, Shelly’s goal is simple: to pull up a chair to the fire and have honest conversations. Keep the conversation going with us here at Creative Camp: Drop us an ⁠email⁠ or a DM over on ⁠Instagram⁠. Support the show by ⁠buying us a coffee⁠ (we love chai lattes) Sign up for our weekly-ish ⁠Camp Bulletin⁠ ., where we drop nuggets about industry insights, creative opportunities and the latest show. We'd love a review as it helps others know to listen as well as it helps us get found among the plethora of podcasts. If you're Spotify leave a comment on the show, and on Apple give us a review. How can we work together: 1:1 consulting - Shelly's been a business coach and photographer since 2010. sponsor the podcast invest in one of our courses invite Shelly to speak to your group or be on your stage Got another idea? Drop us an email: hello@shellywaldman.com

    1h 4m

  2. FEB 1

    EP 24: Art of Pitching Photography

    In this engaging conversation, Shelly Waldman and Rachel Korinek delve into the intricacies of pitching in the photography industry. They discuss the importance of crafting effective pitch decks, tailoring presentations for clients, and the value of visual storytelling. The duo shares insights from their experiences, emphasizing the role of templates and collaboration in creating standout presentations. They also touch on the significance of feedback and continuous improvement in the pitching process, ultimately encouraging photographers to showcase their unique value to clients. Rachel Korinek is a Toronto-based professional food photographer and the founder of Two Loves, a studio and online education platform blending her love of food and photography. Originally from Australia, Rachel creates bright, expressive imagery that celebrates real food, emotion, and storytelling. She works remotely with clients worldwide and travels for select projects. Takeaways Pitching is often overlooked but crucial for success.Tailoring presentations to client needs enhances engagement.Visual storytelling is key in making a strong impression.Templates can streamline the pitching process and save time.Collaboration can lead to innovative ideas and improvements.Feedback from clients is essential for growth and refinement.A strong portfolio should reflect the work you want to be hired for.Understanding client expectations can lead to better outcomes.Continuous improvement is vital in the creative industry.Success in pitching can lead to more opportunities and collaborations.Resources: EP 10: Pitching Mindset and What to Send Canva great for building templates (google slides, Adobe Express work too) About Creative Camp: Shelly Waldman is a commercial photographer and entrepreneur, and the founder of Creative Camp. She hosts Creative Campfire, featuring honest conversations about business, creativity, and building a sustainable creative career. Keep the conversation going: Drop us an ⁠email⁠ or a DM over on ⁠Instagram⁠. Support the show by ⁠buying us a coffee⁠ ( love chai lattes) Sign up for our weekly-ish ⁠Camp Bulletin⁠ ., where we drop nuggets about industry insights, creative opportunities and the latest show. We'd love a review as it helps others know to listen as well as it helps us get found among the plethora of podcasts. If you're Spotify leave a comment on the show, and on Apple give us a review. How can we work together: 1:1 consulting - Shelly's been a business coach and photographer since 2010. sponsor the podcast invest in one of our courses invite Shelly to speak to your group or be on your stage Got another idea? Drop us an email: hello@shellywaldman.com

    35 min

  3. JAN 24

    EP 23: Creativity Is the Strategy: Marketing & Personal Projects with Photographer Suzanne Clements

    **ANNOUNCEMENT** Pitching Essentials returns this February: Foundation Class: February 5 Pro Track: Starts February 6 Pitch Essentials teaches photographers how to communicate their ideas with clarity and confidence — using visual tools and clear structure to communicate ideas and value at every stage of outreach. 👉 All details and tickets:http://courses.twolovesstudio.com/pitch-essentials Summary:Photographer Suzanne Clements joins Shelly Waldman to talk about creativity, marketing, and building a sustainable photography career. Suzanne shares her unexpected path from painting to photography, how she developed her bold visual style, and why personal projects are essential for growth. They dive into idea generation, creative collaboration, packaging projects for clients, and navigating today’s marketing landscape — from Instagram fatigue to the power of consistent email outreach. Suzanne gets into the nitty gritty of how she manages her list, verifies emails and why she uses small batch mail merge rather than a service like Mailchimp or Flodesk. This is a candid conversation about experimenting, adapting, and staying creatively engaged in an ever-changing industry. Links & Resources Mentioned Suzanne Clements Portfolio: https://www.suzanneclements.com/ Suzanne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzannecgd ZeroBounce (Email Verification): https://www.zerobounce.net/ Streak CRM for Gmail: https://www.streak.com/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Suzanne Clements 01:31 Suzanne's Journey into Photography 04:35 The Shift from Painting to Photography 07:21 Finding Your Style and Voice 11:25 The Importance of Feedback and Consultancy 13:44 The Role of Conversations in Growth 16:57 The Magic of Post-Production 18:30 Creative Projects: Skater Girls and Beyond 29:38 Navigating Creative Expenses 32:55 Exploring the Beauty of Simplicity in Photography 35:43 Transforming Ideas into Visual Stories 38:09 The Evolution of Marketing Strategies 46:40 Leveraging Automation in Creative Marketing 53:13 From Concept to Completion: Documenting the Creative Process 56:30 Crafting Engaging Emails 58:49 Manual Email Strategies for Better Engagement 01:01:46 The Importance of Curated Email Lists 01:06:11Leveraging Technology for Email Marketing 01:10:20 Warming Up Your Email for Success 01:15:41 Maximizing Creative Downtime 01:19:59Navigating Communication in a Changing Industry Keep the conversation going with us here at Creative Camp: Drop us an ⁠email⁠ or a DM over on ⁠Instagram⁠.Share a takeaway in the comments.SUPPORT THE SHOW: Share the episode with a friend. Support the show by ⁠buying us a coffee⁠ (we love chai lattes) Sign up for our weekly-ish ⁠Camp Bulletin⁠ ., where we drop nuggets about industry insights, creative opportunities and the latest show. We'd love a review as it helps others know to listen as well as it helps us get found among the plethora of podcasts. If you're Spotify leave a comment on the show, and on Apple give us a review. How can we work together: 1:1 consulting - Shelly's been a business coach and photographer since 2010. sponsor the podcast invest in one of our courses invite Shelly to speak to your group or be on your stage Got another idea? Drop us an email: hello@shellywaldman.com

    1h 31m

  4. JAN 14

    EP22: 2025 Year in Review : Business, Breakups, and Becoming Ourselves

    In this episode of the Creative Campfire Podcast, Shelly Waldman and co-host Lauren Liz sit down to reflect on 2025, looking at all the thrones and roses. Together, they unpack the moments that shaped the year both personally and professionally: navigating divorce, ending a close friendship and business partnership, grieving the loss of beloved pets, and the quiet courage it took for Lauren to come out (again) as queer to family and friends. This conversation is honest, tender, and grounded in the belief that our creative work doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Life changes us and our businesses, boundaries, and identities evolve right alongside it. Rather than offering a polished highlight reel, Shelly and Lauren talk openly about what it looks like to reflect on a year with compassion, clarity, and truth — making space for grief, growth, and what’s next. If you’re approaching your own year-in-review feeling tender, uncertain, or in transition, this episode is an invitation to slow down and reflect with honesty. One thing we know is having a support has been a must. Keep the conversation going with us here at Creative Camp: Drop us an ⁠email⁠ or a DM over on ⁠Instagram⁠. Support the show by ⁠buying us a coffee⁠ (we love chai lattes) Sign up for our weekly-ish ⁠Camp Bulletin⁠ ., where we drop nuggets about industry insights, creative opportunities and the latest show. We'd love a review as it helps others know to listen as well as it helps us get found among the plethora of podcasts. If you're Spotify leave a comment on the show, and on Apple give us a review. How can we work together: 1:1 help with, Shelly, who's background in finance and photography get her a unique perceptive as a coach and business manager. We're opening spots in Feb for working together. Drop us a dm to learn more. sponsor the podcast invest in one of our courses invite Shelly to speak to your group or be on your stage Got another idea? Drop us an email: hello@shellywaldman.com

    1h 21m

  5. JAN 3

    EP 21: The Pivot, The Pause and The Podcast with Kelly Elaine Garthwaite

    In this episode of Creative Campfire, Shelly sits down with creative producer, photographer, and The Naked Room podcast cohost Kelly Garthwaite for a wide-ranging conversation about creative careers, pivots, and what it really means to build something new when the path forward isn’t clear. Kelly shares her journey from technical writing to photography, to photo editor at NFL Network, to her seven-year run at Red Bull Media House, and the leap into entrepreneurship that didn’t unfold the way she expected. Together, they unpack the realities of freelancing, advocating for yourself inside big organizations, the emotional whiplash that can come when a well-thought-out plan that doesn’t land, finding the creative spark in podcasting and predictions for 2026. The conversation weaves through: Why relationships matter more than résumés What brands actually look for when hiring creatives The unseen labor of production and why photographers are asked to wear too many hats Podcasting as a creative lifeline and space for honest, human conversation The cultural shift toward analog, slower creativity, and real connection Why community (especially women supporting women) matters now more than ever This episode is an honest look at reinvention, trust, and staying human in an increasingly automated, transactional creative industry. Topics Covered: Creative pivots and nonlinear careers Life inside Red Bull Media House Hiring photographers: talent vs. personality Burnout, boundaries, and people-pleasing Why “efficiency” is hard to sell to brands Podcasting as a creative and emotional outlet The future of media, streaming, and AI Slowing down: film photography, analog rituals, and patience Women using their voices and building community Kelly is a creative producer and former photo editor at Red Bull Media House who now co-hosts The Naked Room podcast. Known for her empathy, collaboration, and deep industry knowledge, Kelly is passionate about honest storytelling, community-building, and keeping creativity human. 🎙 The Naked Room Podcast – available on Spotify, YouTube & all podcast platforms 🔗 Kelly on LinkedIn, Substack, Instagram (photo), Instagram (pod) Keep the conversation going with us here at Creative Camp: Drop us an ⁠email⁠ or a DM over on ⁠Instagram⁠.Support the show by ⁠buying us a coffee⁠ (we love chai lattes) Sign up for our weekly-ish ⁠Camp Bulletin⁠ ., where we drop nuggets about industry insights, creative opportunities and the latest show. We'd love a review as it helps others know to listen as well as it helps us get found among the plethora of podcasts. If you're Spotify leave a comment on the show, and on Apple give us a review. How can we work together: 1:1 consulting - Shelly's been a business coach and photographer since 2010. sponsor the podcast invest in one of our courses invite Shelly to speak to your group or be on your stage Got another idea? Drop us an email: hello@shellywaldman.com

    1h 16m

  6. 12/19/2025

    EP 20: The Photo Glossary, Set Culture, and the Soft Skills No One Teaches with Sam Cornwall

    In this episode of Creative Campfire, I sit down with Sam Cornwall — photographer, digital tech, and creator of The Photo Glossary — for a deep, honest conversation about what really makes a professional set run smoothly. We talk about learning to see light, why soft skills matter just as much as technical ones, and the industry knowledge that’s slowly disappearing as fewer photographers come up through assisting. From hybrid roles and chain of command to pricing equipment, managing clients, and building trust on set, this episode is packed with insight for photographers, assistants, and creatives navigating commercial work today. Whether you’re early in your career or deep in it, this conversation will help you understand not just how sets work — but why they work best when communication, clarity, and leadership are prioritized. In this episode, we cover: ​Why learning to “see” light starts long before you touch a strobe​The difference between technical skills and creative vision​How environment and lived experience shape your eye​Why soft skills are missing from most photography education​The importance of chain of command on set​Hybrid roles, efficiency, and modern crew structures​Why photographers should understand equipment costs and fees​The thinking behind The Photo Glossary and preserving industry knowledge​What newer creatives are missing — and how to close that gap The Photo Glossary Info: ​Substack​Instagram​Website​Wiki Referenced Tools & Software ​Capture One​Adobe Lightroom​Photoshop​Profoto​Adorama​Dropbox​WeTransfer​Hightail​PIBOX (Frame.io alternative) Keep the conversation going with us here at Creative Camp: ​Drop us an ⁠email⁠ or a DM over on ⁠Instagram⁠.​Support the show by ⁠buying us a coffee⁠ (we love chai lattes)​Sign up for our weekly-ish ⁠Camp Bulletin⁠ ., where we drop nuggets about industry insights, creative opportunities and the latest show.​We'd love a review as it helps others know to listen as well as it helps us get found among the plethora of podcasts. If you're Spotify leave a comment on the show, and on Apple give us a review. How can we work together: ​1:1 consulting - Shelly's been a business coach and photographer since 2010.​sponsor the podcast​invest in one of our courses​invite Shelly to speak to your group or be on your stage​Got another idea? Drop us an email: hello@shellywaldman.com

    1h 48m

  7. 12/05/2025

    EP 19: From NHL to NBA: Lighting the Path in Pro Sports as a photographer with Amanda J. Cain

    In this episode of Creative Campfire, Shelly sits down with powerhouse sports photographer Amanda J. Cain, the first Black female team photographer in the NHL and now head photographer for the Detroit Pistons. Amanda shares how she carved out her lane in sports, the realities of in-house photography, the importance of being multi-skilled, the challenges of career advancement inside teams, and how she integrates art direction and graphic design into her creative identity. We cover: Creative direction for media day Mentorship + honest advice for up-and-coming sports creatives Why freelancing freedom matters The highs and lows behind the scenes — beyond the highlight reel Her sneaker obsession and the art-direction ideas it inspires Her upcoming rebrand + personal weekly project If you’ve ever wondered what it actually looks like to build a career in pro sports photography — this is your episode. Where to Find Amanda Instagram: @amanda.j.cainPortfolio: amandajcain.photoshelter.com More places to find Amanda Keep the conversation going with us here at Creative Camp: Drop us an ⁠email⁠ or a DM over on ⁠Instagram⁠. Support the show by ⁠buying us a coffee⁠ (we love chai lattes) Sign up for our weekly-ish ⁠Camp Bulletin⁠ ., where we drop nuggets about industry insights, creative opportunities and the latest show. We'd love a review as it helps others know to listen as well as it helps us get found among the plethora of podcasts. If you're Spotify leave a comment on the show, and on Apple give us a review. How can we work together: 1:1 consulting - Shelly's been a business coach and photographer since 2010. sponsor the podcast invest in one of our courses invite Shelly to speak to your group or be on your stage Got another idea? Drop us an email: hello@shellywaldman.com

    1h 1m

  8. 11/28/2025

    EP 18: Manifestation, Momentum & Making It in Philly with Photographer PJ Agbay

    "We're all work in progress... We're always, growing. That's why I like to show the imperfections in a lot of my photography. I like to show that like, it's that wabi-sabi approach to it." - PJ Agbay In this episode, Shelly sits down with Philadelphia-based commercial, editorial and food photographer PJ Agbay to explore his creative journey — from shooting on an iPhone in high school to becoming a full-time commercial photographer, community builder, and published artist. PJ shares how breakdancing at his local rec center shaped his sense of belonging, why community is at the heart of his work, and how he’s building a creative ecosystem in Philly. He also breaks down his transition into commercial photography, learning usage and licensing, building confidence with pricing, and how manifesting big goals by sharing them out loud, led him to shoot for Bon Appétit and Food & Wine. We dive into studio culture, personal growth, networking-as-dating, Substack writing, and how saying your dreams out loud can change everything. If you’re building a creative career rooted in connection, this conversation is full of sparks. Keep up with PJ: Website Instagram Substack Other folks and organizations mentioned in the show: Caydie McCumber — Photographer & educator Two Loves Studio / Rachel Korinek — Pitching Essentials co-creator Bon Appétit Food & Wine Magazine Elijah Crawford — Director/producer The Maker’s Table — Creative dinner series co-created by Shelby and AlexIf one of your 2026 goals is to pitch stronger and communicate your value more clearly, check out the Pitching Template Bundle designed my Shelly here at Creative Camp & Two Loves Studio. There are 8 customizable pitch templates that will help you stand out. 50% off from Nov 28 - Dec 1, 2025 with code BF50 at checkout. https://courses.twolovesstudio.com/pitching-templates

    1h 25m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

A show for the creative freelancer. Pull up a chair by the fire for candid conversations about the creative entrepreneur and freelancing. Hosted by Shelly Waldman, this show is for photographers, filmmakers, web/graphic designers and creative entrepreneurs working in advertising, brand storytelling, and content creation. We talk pricing, pitching, mindset, money, and the messy middle — with insights from Shelly and guests who share their expertise, mindset, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories of what life and business really looks like.

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