Clued Up with Maria B: The Behind-The-Scenes Photography Podcast

Maria B
  • 5.0 (4)
  • VISUAL ARTS

How do you elevate your photography? If you read articles, listen to photography podcasts, watch a lot Youtube videos; and you’ve attended numerous workshops and conferences; you’ve probably tried lots of techniques-different lights and lighting set ups; you've purchased a ton of gear, software, and apps; or taken to the extreme, you’ve changed camera systems. And are your photos really that much better? What if I told you that the secret to better photos isn’t in the latest gear or the latest preset? The secret to better photos is everything that goes on before the first time you click the shutter. Let me teach you how to build quality photoshoots and have a better photoshoot experience using These 5 Pillars to a Better Photoshoot:CORT-Consistency, Organization, Redundancy, and TimePhotoshoot Mapping and WorkflowSkills-Technical and People SkillsBusinessGrowthThese 5 Pillars will have you walking into any photoshoot, any set, any location, any event, and any business dealings with confidence. These 5 Pillars have taken me from shy, reserved, ladened with self-doubt and denying myself opportunities, to a determined, self-assured, on-set problem solver who welcomes challenges and who no longer negotiates pricing. I’m your host Maria. I specialize in Portrait and Headshot Photography. My portraits are magazine-style contemporary images that allow my clients to be photographed the way they want to be seen by the rest of the world. That means working with MUAs, hairstylists, as well as my clients. It means learning to collaborate and to direct. Using these 5 Pillars has changed my confidence and my ability to interact with clients, collaborators, colleagues, and with businesses. These changes have lead me to expand my portfolio to engagement, maternity, and family photography; to operate two businesses, and to acquire my own studio. I know getting Clued Up to the 5 Pillars and to what has to go on behind the scenes in order to produce quality photoshoot experiences for you and your client will elevate your photography. So join me every Tuesday to get Clued Up. We’ll also have some special guests-photographers, MUAs, models, and more. PS: I’ll be throwing in some surprise BTS bonus tips too. You can check out the Clued Up webpage at www.cluedupBTS.com and follow the show on Instagram at @CluedUpBTS.

  1. 09/14/2025

    Your Photos, Your Rights: What Every Photographer Needs to Know

    Send us a text In this episode of Clued Up, we delve into the complexities of copyright in photography, emphasizing its importance for protecting your creative work. We talk about the automatic legal protection photographers receive upon capturing an image, the significance of licensing and contracts, and the steps to take if someone infringes on your copyright. Our conversation also covers international copyright considerations, common myths surrounding copyright, and the differences in ownership between employees and freelancers. Finally, we discuss how to determine pricing for usage rights, ensuring photographers are compensated fairly for their work. Takeaways Understanding copyright is essential for photographers.Copyright protection begins the moment you take a photo.Clients often misunderstand ownership of images.Licensing agreements are crucial for protecting your work.You can enforce your copyright through legal means.International copyright laws vary by country.Myths about copyright can lead to financial loss.Employees do not own the copyright to their work.Pricing for usage rights should reflect the value of the work.Contracts should clearly outline usage rights and limitations. Resources  U.S. Copyright Office  U.S. Copyright  Office: Photography DMCA on Google DMCA (equivalent) on Instagram  Questions or Comments? Reach out at mariabphotostudio@gmail.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast. *By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

    43 min

  2. 08/31/2025

    10+ Essential Tips for NonWedding Photographers Shooting A Wedding

    Send us a text What happens when a portrait photographer reluctantly agrees to shoot a wedding? A year-long journey of preparation, learning, and ultimately, success. After receiving an unexpected request from my friend's sister, I found myself saying "yes" to photographing a wedding despite my initial hesitation—a decision that would teach me valuable lessons about wedding photography from a portrait photographer's perspective AND ABOUT SAYING YES even when you're filled with self doubt. The wedding photography world has its own rhythm, challenges, and rewards that differ significantly from portrait work. Through workshops, styled shoots, and extensive research, I developed a comprehensive approach to tackle my first wedding with confidence. From knowing your client's vision to mastering venue logistics, from creating bulletproof contracts to assembling the right support team—I discovered that success lies in meticulous preparation and clear communication. My experience shooting this wedding revealed why many photographers either love or leave the wedding industry. The physical demands, time management challenges, and interpersonal dynamics create a complex environment that requires more than just technical photography skills. I found myself understanding why wedding photographers need to be assertive, organized, and prepared for anything. For portrait photographers considering taking on a wedding, I offer 15 essential tips that cover everything from pricing structures to equipment choices, from professional conduct to handling the unexpected. Whether you're contemplating your first wedding shoot or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes, this episode provides an honest look at navigating the wedding photography landscape as an outsider stepping in. Want to know if wedding photography might be right for you? Listen as I share the surprising moments, challenges, and ultimately rewarding experience of documenting one of life's most significant celebrations. You might discover, as I did, that with proper preparation and realistic expectations, wedding photography can become an enriching addition to your photography offerings. The Complete Wedding Day Organizer for Photographers Questions or Comments? Reach out at mariabphotostudio@gmail.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast. *By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

    36 min

  3. 08/09/2023

    How to Make Your Photography Your Business

    Send us a text Are you ready to evolve your photography passion into a business? This episode guides you through the basics of setting up a photography enterprise. We illuminate the process of creating and registering your business, placing special emphasis on the advantages of launching as an LLC. You'll gain insights into protecting your personal assets, savoring tax benefits and the pitfalls that could potentially endanger your personal assets. Imagine a world where your photography business is not just a hobby, but a full-fledged professional venture. Let's take a trip into that world, examining the importance of a distinctive business name, the process of securing an EIN number, and how to obtain necessary permits or licenses. We'll also introduce you to a secret weapon - Client Relationship Management (CRM) software. I'll share my experience to help you choose the best fit for your business. Discover how automation can revolutionize your operations, boosting productivity and providing more time to focus on your passion. The grand finale of our journey delves into the realm of tax deductions - a crucial aspect for any successful business. Learn about record keeping, staying updated with tax laws and the expenses you can deduct. And remember, treating your photography venture with the seriousness it deserves goes a long way in ensuring your success. From proper registration and business structuring to utilizing readily available tools, this episode is packed with valuable insights to elevate your photography from hobby to business.  Questions or Comments? Reach out at mariabphotostudio@gmail.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast. *By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

    50 min

  4. 08/01/2023

    The Transformative Power of Photography Workshops: Boosting Your Photography Skills and Business Through Workshops

    Send us a text Have you ever wondered how photography workshops can ignite your creativity, refine your skills and push your business to new heights? I'm here to tell you that workshops are a game changer. They offer an opportunity for camaraderie and connection, for learning and growth, and for witnessing the transformative power of your photography. I'll share my insights on the importance of these workshops, not only for your personal artistic journey but for your business as well. We'll also tackle the necessity of staying on top of industry trends, and how workshops can aid you in this endeavor. If you're worried about just mimicking what everyone else is doing, worry no more! We'll discuss how to incorporate trends into your work in a unique way. However, not all workshops are created equal. I'll equip you with the knowledge to discern which workshops to avoid, such as those offering portfolio building sessions where everyone ends up with identical photos. I'll talk about the 5 things every swell-structured photography workshop should provide for deep learning to improve your skills: 1. Knowledge Expansion 2. Networking and Collaboration 3. Creative Inspiration 4. Constructive Criticism and Feedback 5. Personal Confidence and Growth 6. Exposure to Industry and Artistic Trends My goal is to help you get the most value out of your investment in a photography workshop. I'll delve into the details of what makes a workshop truly beneficial, from its size to its focus on portfolio through individualized creativity and detailed planning. I'll even share my personal experiences attending workshops, and their impact on my photography journey. It's time to spark your creativity, broaden your network, and take your photography to new heights. So, tune in and let's explore  photography workshops together. Resources, Photographers, and Companies Mentioned During This Episode Sarah EdmundsSimone DiezOrlett Pearson MsCallClot StudioGravity BackdropsGraphi Studio  Questions or Comments? Reach out at mariabphotostudio@gmail.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast. *By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

    52 min

  5. 07/29/2023

    Revised and Corrected Version: Cracking the ISO Code: Understanding Your Camera's Sensitivity to Light - The Know Your Camera Series

    Send us a text Are your photos not quite hitting the mark in low-light situations? Frustrated with unwanted noise in your images? This episode is just the tool you need to understand the power of ISO in your photography . Join us on Clued Up with Maria B, as we shed light on the third pillar of the exposure triangle - ISO. We'll dig deep into what a native ISO is and expose the secret of how bumping up your ISO can lead to better image exposure. You'll walk away with a clear and solid understanding of ISO, ready to experiment and optimize your camera settings for a variety of lighting situations. Maximize your camera's potential by understanding its maximum ISO sensitivity and learn how tweaking this can substantially reduce noise in your photographs. I'll guide you on this journey of discovery and experimentation, illustrating how an increase in ISO is the secret sauce to capturing crisp images when shooting in low light. However, increased ISO isn't without its trade-offs. We'll explore the delicate balance between ISO and the introduction of noise into your photos. This conversation is a must-listen for both budding photographers and seasoned professionals looking to sharpen their skills. So, get ready to crack the ISO code with me on Clued Up with Maria B. Questions or Comments? Reach out at mariabphotostudio@gmail.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast. *By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

    29 min

  6. 07/18/2023

    Mastering Maternity Photoshoots: A Guide to Planning and Execution Part 1

    Send us a text This episode is your golden ticket to understanding the art and science of planning a successful maternity photoshoot. I'm your host, Maria B, and I'll be pulling back the curtain to reveal the meticulous steps, from striking the right business balance to building the foundations for your creativity, all in service of a smooth and enjoyable client experience.  Get ready to step into my shoes as we navigate the intricate process of setting dates, securing makeup artists, and handling contracts with ease using Studio Ninja, our client relationship management software. I'll share my personal tips on choosing the perfect materials to celebrate and accentuate the miracle of pregnancy, while keeping the client's interests at heart. Along the way, you'll hear stories from my journey and learnings from past photoshoots, sparking inspiration for your next maternity shoot. So, buckle up for an enlightening and engaging behind-the-scenes that will enhance  your approach to maternity photography. LaClef Strapless Side Ruche Bodycon Tube Top Maternity DressSioro Women's Silk Satin Lace  Trim Embroidery BathrobeBefore and Ever Mood Fabric (Shop Sales Section First)Etsy Elastic Webbing Cloth Lola Melani Academy Lola Melani Questions or Comments? Reach out at mariabphotostudio@gmail.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast. *By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

    33 min

  7. 07/11/2023

    From Vision to Image: Exploring the 8 Elements to Becoming a Great Photographer

    Send us a text Ever wondered what separates a good photographer from a truly great one? Let's find out! Today, we dive into the world of photography, exploring the elements that transform a simple click into a breathtaking masterpiece. We'll unravel the blend of technical skills, artistic vision, and the dedication necessary to separate from the photograph pack. The ability to visualize the shot before clicking the shutter, creating a powerful composition, and pushing boundaries with colors and innovation - these are all part of the recipe for success. But photography isn't just about technicalities. It's about the intimate dance between the photographer and the subject - the connection that makes each photograph a story worth telling. From building a rapport to empathizing with the subject, we'll shed light on how interaction adds depth to your photographs. And remember, the key to becoming a great photographer is the relentless pursuit of knowledge. As the world of photography constantly evolves, a true artist thrives on learning and adapting. You can't transform from good to great by buying the latest gear. Photography education is the key to breaking away from the pack and becoming a great photographer.  The 8 Elelments to Becoming a Great Photographer Technical Proficiency Creativity and Artistic Vision Attention to Detail Patience and Timing Adaptability and Problem-Solving Skills Storytelling Ability Connection and Empathy Continuous Education  Questions or Comments? Reach out at mariabphotostudio@gmail.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast. *By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

    32 min

  8. 07/02/2023

    10 Food for Thought Photography Questions

    Send us a text In this episode we explore 10 Food for Thought Photography Questions about our photography. These are questions I've thought about over time. The answers  change based on my experiences and what's significant to me at the time. I think you'll find the same if you ever choose to come back to them. These questions show us where we are and where we want to be, and in some cases, the likelihood of making our answers real. As the title states, these questions are food for thought to help us think about and explore what appeals to us and what nourishes us on our photography journey.  Reach out and let me know some of your responses. We'll talk about them in an upcoming episode.  Questions or Comments? Reach out at mariabphotostudio@gmail.com and I'll be in touch* directly or address your comment on the podcast. *By submitting a question or statement, you agree that your submission can be discussed publicly on the podcast, website, or other platforms owned by or affiliated with CluedUpBTS and its parent company, HeadshotNJ, and affiliate company Maria B Photography Studio. while retaining your anonymity.

    59 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

How do you elevate your photography? If you read articles, listen to photography podcasts, watch a lot Youtube videos; and you’ve attended numerous workshops and conferences; you’ve probably tried lots of techniques-different lights and lighting set ups; you've purchased a ton of gear, software, and apps; or taken to the extreme, you’ve changed camera systems. And are your photos really that much better? What if I told you that the secret to better photos isn’t in the latest gear or the latest preset? The secret to better photos is everything that goes on before the first time you click the shutter. Let me teach you how to build quality photoshoots and have a better photoshoot experience using These 5 Pillars to a Better Photoshoot:CORT-Consistency, Organization, Redundancy, and TimePhotoshoot Mapping and WorkflowSkills-Technical and People SkillsBusinessGrowthThese 5 Pillars will have you walking into any photoshoot, any set, any location, any event, and any business dealings with confidence. These 5 Pillars have taken me from shy, reserved, ladened with self-doubt and denying myself opportunities, to a determined, self-assured, on-set problem solver who welcomes challenges and who no longer negotiates pricing. I’m your host Maria. I specialize in Portrait and Headshot Photography. My portraits are magazine-style contemporary images that allow my clients to be photographed the way they want to be seen by the rest of the world. That means working with MUAs, hairstylists, as well as my clients. It means learning to collaborate and to direct. Using these 5 Pillars has changed my confidence and my ability to interact with clients, collaborators, colleagues, and with businesses. These changes have lead me to expand my portfolio to engagement, maternity, and family photography; to operate two businesses, and to acquire my own studio. I know getting Clued Up to the 5 Pillars and to what has to go on behind the scenes in order to produce quality photoshoot experiences for you and your client will elevate your photography. So join me every Tuesday to get Clued Up. We’ll also have some special guests-photographers, MUAs, models, and more. PS: I’ll be throwing in some surprise BTS bonus tips too. You can check out the Clued Up webpage at www.cluedupBTS.com and follow the show on Instagram at @CluedUpBTS.

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