Send us a text
In this episode of the Shutter Saga Podcast, host Marvin Blue sits down with Johnny Guerrero, a senior and wedding photographer whose path is as powerful as his images. From his early years in the military, through his career in law enforcement, to his transformation into a full-time creative and business owner, Johnny’s journey is a testament to purpose, perseverance, and passion.
Johnny is also a fellow podcaster and the host of the Trading Holsters Podcast, where he shares honest conversations about the realities of service, identity, and life after the badge. His transition from wearing a uniform to wielding a camera lens offers incredible lessons on resilience, storytelling, and rediscovering your “why.”
Segment 1: From Service to Structure — The Military Mindset
- Johnny reflects on his time in the military and how it shaped his sense of discipline, leadership, and mental focus.
- The habits and mindset from his service that continue to influence his approach to photography and entrepreneurship.
- How the structure of military life taught him to adapt quickly, plan strategically, and execute with precision.
Segment 2: Life Behind the Badge
- A candid look at Johnny’s years in law enforcement — the challenges, rewards, and what it taught him about human connection.
- The parallels between serving in law enforcement and working in photography — empathy, observation, and storytelling.
- How this period of his life deepened his perspective and emotional connection to the people he photographs today.
Segment 3: Finding Freedom Through Photography
- The turning point where Johnny picked up a camera and began building a new identity through art.
- How photography became an outlet for healing, creativity, and rediscovery.
- Why senior and wedding photography felt like a natural fit — capturing life’s celebrations after years of witnessing life’s hardest moments.
Segment 4: Building a Brand and a Community
- Johnny shares how he launched and grew his photography business with authenticity and purpose.
- Insights on creating meaningful client experiences, especially for seniors and couples.
- How hosting Trading Holsters Podcast connects his worlds — using his voice to serve others while inspiring those in transition.
Segment 5: Real Stories, Real Lessons
- Johnny opens up about his most memorable shoots and what they taught him about people and purpose.
- The power of storytelling — whether through an image, a wedding film, or a podcast mic.
- His message for veterans, officers, and creatives looking to reinvent themselves.
Rate & Review:
If you enjoyed this conversation, leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help more photographers discover these real, behind-the-scenes conversations.
This episodes sponsors:
Cheetah Stands (Light Stands)
10%off - https://cheetahstand.com/shuttersagapodcast
Fundy Designer
https://www.fundydesigner.com/
use Promo code: marvin30 for 30% off
17 Hats (CRM)
50% off subscription - https://referrals.17hats.com?r=marvinblue
Dreambooks Pro
https://us.dreambookspro.com
DBP70MARVIN
