Episode 189: How to Plan a Styled Photography Session from One Simple Idea

Ever wonder what actually goes into those breathtaking styled sessions you see other photographers pulling off? In this episode, Ali Payne sits down with TMA mentor Marie of Marie Elizabeth Photography to get nosy about her Becoming Styled Sessions, an afternoon of four fully styled shoots she opened up to fellow photographers. From a nautical romance session on a sailboat to blue Portuguese tiles in a historic farmhouse kitchen, Marie shares how one small detail can grow into an entire creative vision.

In This Episode

What a styled session actually is, and why it is far more achievable than most photographers assume

Why building at least one styled session a year keeps your creativity fresh and prevents your work from going on repeat

How styled sessions play the long game for your business, bringing in client inquiries years after you shoot them

Marie's process for planning a session from one simple idea, like a scarf, a location, or a feeling, into a complete mood board

How to stretch into trends while keeping the core of your brand intact

Leading a room of photographers: giving attendees creative autonomy while holding your vision

Why a styled session event is the perfect low-lift entry point if hosting a workshop or retreat feels intimidating

Whether you are dreaming up your first solo styled session or feeling called to invite other photographers into your vision, this conversation is proof that it all starts with one simple idea. Press play and get inspired to create something just for the joy of it.

About Marie

Marie is a motherhood, newborn, family, and maternity photographer serving DC, parts of Maryland, and Northern Virginia. Now in her tenth year of business, she taught for 13 years while building her photography business on the side before going full time nearly five years ago. She is a TMA mentor and the creator of the Becoming Styled Sessions.