Lifestyle and Lenses: Real Talk on Photography, Business & Mom Life

Lifestyle and Lenses
  • 5.0 (10)
  • Arts
  • Updated Weekly

Two photographer moms get real about the art of photography, running a business, and the beautiful chaos of motherhood. From gear reviews and client stories to creative inspiration and parenting wins (and fails), we’re keeping it honest, fun, and totally relatable. Whether you’re a family photographer, wedding shooter, or a creative mompreneur, grab your coffee and join us as we dive into life behind the lens—and everything in between.

  1. 23h ago

    Burnout, Boundaries & Building Different with Laylee Emadi

    What happens when the business you worked so hard to build starts taking more from you than it gives? This week, Lauren and Paige are joined by business coach, podcaster, and former photographer Laylee Emadi for a conversation all about burnout — how to spot it, how to avoid it, and what to do when you know a fuller season is coming. Having spent years in the photography industry before moving into coaching, Laylee has seen firsthand how easy it is for creative business owners to fall into the cycle of doing more, saying yes to everything, and realizing a little too late that something has to change. We talk about the signs of burnout we tend to ignore, the checks and boundaries you can build into your business before you hit your limit, and Laylee’s advice for navigating seasons when life and business simply feel more full. And continuing our Season 4 theme, Built Different, Laylee shares what building a business differently means to her — and why success doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s version of it. Our “Top 3” (that is never actually three) 20-second hugs — Give this one a listen, then go find someone you love and give them a full 20-second hug. Trust us.The Bottle Rocket at Jonathan’s The Rub — Lauren + Paige may have officially found a new favorite cocktail.Sculptra — Another stop on Paige’s Road to 40, and we’re talking about the experience.First Aid Beauty serum + Kiehl’s mineral SPF serum — Two skincare finds making the current rotation.Book rec: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo — If you haven’t read it yet, add it to the list.Oura Ring 5 — The honest review after previously trying another model and not loving it. Did this one change her mind?Find Laylee Follow Laylee on Instagram @laylee_emadi and find more of her coaching, podcast, and resources at layleeemadi.com. Follow Lifestyle & Lenses Come hang with your business besties, Lauren + Paige, for more conversations about photography, entrepreneurship, life, and building a business that actually fits the life you want. Instagram: @lifestyleandlenses Website: lifestyleandlenses.com Hosts: Lauren Holub + Paige McInturff Follow along, share the episode with a business bestie who needs it, and make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss the next episode of Built Different.

  2. Sep 7

    She Loved Mad Men… So She Built a Marketing Agency - Marketing Business in 2026

    Lauren and Paige are back with Season 4 — and we’re kicking off our brand-new Built Different series with Alex Lane of laneMKTG. Because apparently sometimes the path to entrepreneurship starts with watching Mad Men and thinking, “Yeah…I could do that.” Plus who doesn’t want a martini in the middle of work days!  Alex built her marketing business from two pretty simple things: a network and a need. She heard from her clients what they needed, and it pushed her over the edge to find a solution, and built the kind of business she actually wanted to be a part of. In this episode, we talk about what entrepreneurship really looks like as a woman and a mom, how relationships and community helped Alex grow laneMKTG, and what happens when you stop waiting for the perfect blueprint and just start building. And yes, we sprinkle in some marketing talk too — what actually matters, what businesses tend to overcomplicate, and why knowing your people might be more important than having the perfect strategy. We also land on a theory we feel pretty confident about: maybe every entrepreneur needs just a little bit of crazy. Because at some point, you have to believe enough in an idea to actually jump. We talk about: Going from Mad Men inspiration to owning a marketing agencyBuilding a business from a network + a needEntrepreneurship while also being a momCreating the business you actually want instead of following someone else’s blueprintWhy relationships matter so much in businessMarketing without overcomplicating itAnd why a little bit of crazy might actually be required to become an entrepreneurTop 3 This week we’re talking: Nuuly — tips for getting the most out of your subscriptionDeep chemical peels — a WIN, but plan accordingly because the downtime is realPaige’s outdoor chairs — perfect for nice nights outside while the kids play with the neighborsHome Chef — one less dinner decision to makeHeatless curlers — anything that makes getting ready easier gets our voteDune — because apparently we have movie reviews now tooSeason 4 is all about women who looked at the traditional way of doing things and decided, “Yeah…that’s not going to work for me.” They built businesses around their strengths, their families, their lives, and their own definitions of success. They Built Different. And we can’t think of a better way to kick it off than with Alex Lane. Grab your coffee (or your cocktail) and come hang out with us. 💚🩷 Listen now and come hang out with us @lifestyleandlenses.

  3. Jun 1

    Ask Us Anything: The Business, The Random, and Everything In Between

    You asked, and we answered! In this fun and unfiltered episode, Lauren and Paige are tackling your questions—from photography business milestones to random current obsessions and everything in between. We share the moments that made us realize our photography businesses were no longer just side hobbies, but real businesses. We also answer a photographer’s favorite question: if we could only use one lens forever, which one would make the cut? Along the way, we dive into the investments that delivered the biggest return in our businesses, the most random things we’re currently obsessed with, and the comfort shows we can’t stop watching. Plus, we’re sharing our current lip color favorites and a few laughs along the way. Whether you’re here for the business insights or just want to hang out with us for a bit, this episode feels like catching up with friends over coffee (or an espresso martini). Some Questions We Cover What made you feel like, “Oh wow, this is a real business”?If you could only use one lens forever, what would it be?What investment gave you the biggest return?What’s the most random thing you’re into right now?What’s your current comfort show?Our current lip color obsessions.Top 3 Paige’s Espresso Martini Recipe (see below!)The Nespresso machine Paige can’t stop talking aboutA tennis update from Paige 😂Lauren’s newest hobby: cross-stitchCricut machine favoritesHorse medallions—are you on the trend yet?Connect with us on Instagram @lifestyleandlenses and let us know what questions we should answer next! Paige’s Espresso Martini ☕️✨ Ingredients 2 oz coffee or freshly brewed espresso (cooled)2 oz Belvedere vodka1 oz KahlúaA splash of Baileys Irish CreamIceInstructions Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.Add the coffee or espresso, vodka, Kahlúa, and a splash of Baileys.Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until well chilled and frothy.Strain into a chilled coupe glass.Garnish with a few coffee beans, if desired.Paige’s Tip: If you’re using espresso, let it cool slightly before shaking to get that perfect creamy foam on top. Cheers!

  4. May 25

    Life of an Entrepreneur: The Risk Is Real. So Is the Reward.

    What does it really look like to build a business from the ground up? In this candid episode, Lauren and Paige pull back the curtain on entrepreneurship and share the realities that don’t always make it to social media. After spending time talking with business owners across different industries, they realized one thing is true no matter what business you’re in: success rarely follows a straight line. From navigating setbacks and taking risks to building confidence and staying the course when things get hard, this conversation is an honest look at the entrepreneurial journey. The highs are worth celebrating, but the challenges are often where the biggest growth happens. Whether you’re just getting started or have been in business for years, this episode is your reminder that you’re not alone in the ups and downs of chasing your dreams. In This Episode, We Discuss: Why grit can be the difference between giving up and breaking throughHow every entrepreneur’s path looks differentThe risks involved in building something of your ownWhy the rewards can make the hard seasons worth itBuilding confidence through action and treating confidence like a muscleLessons learned from entrepreneurs in a variety of industriesWe are firm believers in creating an email list if you do not already have one for your business today is the day! Check out our preferred email marketing platform FloDesk — try it here!  Top 3 Lauren’s Picks Espresso machine with espresso podsStolen Focus by Johann HariGlamorous Wash by Tyler Candle CompanyPaige’s Picks Primally Pure Armpit DetoxPrimally Pure Everything SprayPartin Family Chili Recipe — a true Texas favoriteConnect with Lifestyle & Lenses Follow along for more conversations about photography, business, motherhood, and building a life you love. 📸 Instagram: @lifestyleandlenses  🎙️ Podcast: Lifestyle & Lenses  🌐 Website:  Lifestyle and Lenses If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow entrepreneur who needs a reminder that the journey is worth it.

  5. May 18

    Serving With Purpose: The Heart Behind Belong Kitchen

    Paige and Lauren are joined by Kim Brown, founder of Belong Kitchen — a nonprofit grab-and-go kitchen in the Memorial area of Houston that employs adults with intellectual differences while creating meaningful community connection through food and service. Kim shares the incredible story of how Belong Kitchen began literally in her own backyard and grew into something the Houston community has fully wrapped its arms around. From the moment you walk through the doors, the joy, purpose, and heart behind the mission is undeniable. On this episode, we dive into: How Belong Kitchen was created from a simple idea with a big purposeWhy creating opportunities for underserved communities matters so deeplyThe power of a community rallying behind a missionWhat makes Belong feel so different the second you walk inKim’s vision for expanding Belong into communities across the countryThe beauty of serving others while building connection and belongingThis episode is a reminder that sometimes the most impactful businesses are the ones built with heart first. Follow along with Belong Kitchen on Instagram @belongkitchen and online at  Belong Kitchen. If you’re local to Houston, stop by their Memorial storefront for coffee, grab-and-go meals, and a truly special experience that’s making a difference in the community every single day. Top 3  Paige’s Lash update: current faves Lilly faux mink in Blushing Apple Watch — parental controlsSkylight calendar — new favorite family device. Paige’s take, go big or go home! Theo of Golden book Sourdough baking — have you started this hobby yet??!!Yia Yia’s restaurant in Houston

  6. May 11

    The Weight We Carry: GLP-1s, Business & Unrealistic Expectations with Melissa Musso

    Melissa Musso, NP, joins Paige and Lauren for a follow-up conversation diving deeper into the ever-evolving world of GLP-1 medications and the conversations surrounding them. From stigma to science, this episode unpacks the latest updates, misconceptions, and the very real emotional weight women often carry while balancing motherhood, business, and everyday life. Melissa breaks down what’s new in the GLP-1 space, the latest medications coming to market, and why these treatments are becoming about so much more than just weight loss. Topics discussed include: Have stigmas around GLP-1s improved, or are they still present? Melissa shares her honest perspective — and why the answer is both yes and no.New products and medications entering the market and what makes them differentThe growing medical benefits of GLP-1 medications beyond weight loss:Improved liver enzymes and treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver diseaseHelping prevent progression of chronic kidney diseaseFDA-approved use for obstructive sleep apneaThe emotional side of “doing it all” as women, moms, and business ownersWhy unrealistic expectations placed on women can become a stigma of their ownMelissa also shares a book that deeply impacted her perspective on motherhood, partnership, and mental load: Fair Play by Eve Rodsky. Top 3’s: Mary Ruth’s multivitamin hair growth Divi scalp serum Olaplex hair mask Barebells coconut flavorLMNT electrolytes Menoxidyl for hair growth Connect with Melissa on Instagram at @melissamusso.np or through Contour Health RX. Connect with Lifestyle & Lenses and follow along on Instagram at @lifestyleandlenses.

  7. May 4

    Elevated Experience Series: From Instagram to Interior Design Empire with Oyster Creek Studio

    Lauren and Paige are joined by Aryn Guillory, the visionary behind Oyster Creek Studios, for a conversation that feels equal parts inspiring and wildly practical. This episode dives into the real story behind building a luxury interior design brand—from early days showing up on Instagram to becoming a sought-after studio known for its elevated aesthetic and seamless client experience. Aryn shares how she scaled from a one-woman show to a full team while protecting the heart of her brand—ensuring every project still reflects the signature vision and style she built from the ground up. We talk about what it actually takes to grow without losing control, how to hire with intention, and why systems are the secret sauce behind a consistent luxury experience. Now offering concierge-level services and a curated furniture line through Oyster Creek Collection, Aryn gives a behind-the-scenes look at expanding your offers in a way that feels aligned (and not chaotic). And yes… we’re calling it out: this is another business owner absolutely nailing client experience. From thoughtful details to intentional touchpoints, Aryn shares what makes clients not only book—but stay, refer, and rave. We also get real about finding joy in your work—and how that energy translates directly into the growth and sustainability of your business. Because when you actually love what you’re building? It shows. In this episode: Turning an Instagram presence into a luxury, in-demand design studioHiring and building a team that protects your brand visionScaling offers: when (and how) to expand into collections + concierge servicesWhy joy in your work isn’t optional—it’s a growth strategyConnect with Aryn + Oyster Creek: Instagram: @oystercreekstudiosCollection: @oystercreekcollectionWebsite: oystercreekstudios.comTop 3 from this Episode:  AirTag for kids so you can find them! Aura frame Fuji film Polaroid camera for post sessions to keepsake CeCe HOMECOURT Surface Cleaner - SOOO GOOD!!Exfoliating Polish - will make your skin feel like butter!my favorite robe ever!Connect with Lifestyle & Lenses  Follow on Instagram: @lifestyleandlenses Explore our offerings: lifestyleandlenses.com Because building a business you love? It’s way more fun when you don’t do it alone

  8. Apr 27

    Elevated Experience Series: Spa Done Right with Trellis Spa & Kelleye Martin

    Get ready for a luxury-level masterclass in client experience ✨ because this episode is dripping in details you’ll want to steal (in the chicest way possible). Paige and Lauren sit down with powerhouse Kelleye Martin of Trellis Spa at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa, a Forbes Four-Star recognized spa that has truly perfected the art of making clients feel like absolute royalty. And when we say she’s sharing… she’s sharing. No gatekeeping, no fluff—just real, actionable insight on how to elevate your business into an experience people can’t stop talking about. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✨ How a large-scale luxury spa still feels deeply personal Kelleye breaks down how Trellis operates one of the largest spas in the country without losing that intimate, high-touch feel clients crave. ✨ The magic is in the details (and the listening) From remembering client preferences to weaving in personal “nuggets,” learn how small touches create unforgettable, repeat-worthy experiences. ✨ Turning unhappy clients into loyal ones Because let’s be real—things happen. Kelleye shares how to gracefully handle complaints and transform tension into trust (aka a skill every business owner needs). Why This Episode Matters: If you’ve ever wondered what truly separates a good business from a luxury, referral-generating, client-obsessed brand… this is your episode. It’s not about doing more—it’s about doing it intentionally. Top 3 (okay… Top 6 because we couldn’t help ourselves): PSA: Book that derm appointment and get your moles checked 🤍MERIT Beauty “The Uniform” (tint + SPF = effortless glow)Julie Vos — earrings + bangles = instant polishNatura Bissé — luxury skincare momentOribe densifying spray (hello volume)Walk-out song vibes:“Gloria” by Laura Branigan“La Grange” by ZZ TopLet’s Connect: Follow along for more behind-the-scenes, business strategy, and your weekly dose of “you’ve got this” energy:  Instagram: @lifestyleandlenses  Website: lifestyleandlenses.com

See All (37)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Two photographer moms get real about the art of photography, running a business, and the beautiful chaos of motherhood. From gear reviews and client stories to creative inspiration and parenting wins (and fails), we’re keeping it honest, fun, and totally relatable. Whether you’re a family photographer, wedding shooter, or a creative mompreneur, grab your coffee and join us as we dive into life behind the lens—and everything in between.

Information

You Might Also Like