How I Built This: Rachel Larsen Weaver

Description

Episode Title: How I Built This with Rachel Larsen Weaver

Guest: Rachel Larsen Weaver, Family Photographer (Long-Form Sessions), Washington, DC area

We Discuss:

Rachel’s early career in restaurants and teaching and how those skills translated into photography
Starting photography through blogging and realizing “documenting” is different than being hired to lead and create images
Building a business without a template and why that actually helped her develop a distinct voice
The 2019 educational turning point that clarified her creative direction
Why mini sessions flopped for her and how that failure pointed her toward long-form sessions instead
How long-form sessions took off and became a defining offer in her business
Navigating mentorship, including a harmful experience that shaped her commitment to inclusive, affirming work
Choosing educators and coaches wisely and why “great photographer” doesn’t always equal “great teacher”
The role pricing plays in attracting aligned clients and protecting the experience
Why she shoots almost exclusively on film now, and how that supports her workflow and profitability
Hiring an assistant and how that changed her capacity, consistency, and creative energy
The “loving gaze” concept and how she trains her eye and heart to see people with depth and dignity
Lightning round topics: systems, film preferences, business decisions, time freedom vs financial freedom

TLDR:

Rachel built her business by getting her reps in, honing her voice, and making offers that match how she actually likes to work.
A mini-session flop became a turning point that pushed her toward long-form sessions, which booked fast and fit her clients better.
Pricing, clarity in marketing, and a values-forward approach helped her attract clients who are invested in the experience.
Shooting film and outsourcing scanning simplifies her workflow so she can spend more time photographing and marketing.
The way she sees people is not accidental. It’s practiced, intentional, and foundational to the work.

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