In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, we sit down with one of the most acclaimed names in the wedding photography world, the amazing Susan Stripling. With more than two decades of experience capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments, Susan brings her signature honesty, humor, and razor-sharp insight to a conversation that dives deep into what it really takes to thrive in this industry.
We talk about everything from her best tips for new and seasoned photographers, to the kinds of fears that still creep in before a shoot (yes, even legends get the jitters). Susan opens up about the pressure to perform when there are no do-overs, the challenge of staying creatively engaged after hundreds of weddings, and how to turn fear into fuel for growth.
And if you’ve ever noticed how many people in the wedding industry used to work in theater – you are not alone. Since both of us are theater people, Susan and I discuss why those with a flair for the dramatic and a knack for storytelling often find their way to weddings – and why those theater chops make for some seriously dynamic photographers.
This episode is packed with real talk, professional gold, and a lot of laughs. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the game for years, Susan’s wisdom and warmth will remind you why we fell in love with photography in the first place, and why showing up with a bit of vulnerability and a whole lot of heart still matters.
Tune in now and prepare to feel inspired (and seen).
Stream the Episode
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Episode Promos
This episode contains promos for:
- StyleCloud WordPress Website Templates
- Backblaze Data Backup
- Let’s Be Real Unposed Photography Prompts
- Nerdy Photographer Contract Templates
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About My Guest
Susan Stripling has been photographing weddings, portraits, and theater for over twenty years.
Susan’s work has been published in Inside Weddings, Martha Stewart Weddings, Grace Ormonde Wedding Style, Modern Bride, Town and Country Weddings, the New York Times, New York Post, Rangerfinder, PDN, and in ads and advertorials for Nikon USA, Epson, and Canon USA.
Susan has been an educator for Photo Plus, WPPI, PPA, Mystic Seminars, Portrait Masters, and Creative Live. She has been named one of the top ten wedding photographers in the world by American Photo Magazine. She is also currently a Grand Master with ICON.
She is most honored to be named an Explorer of Light by Canon USA.
Susan also the founder of The Wedding School, which strives to bring real, honest education to wedding photographers worldwide.
In her spare time, besides spending time with her incredible family, Susan is a voracious reader, lover of all horror movies, and inexplicably sleeps with the lights on.
You can find Susan on her website – susanstripling.com – or on Instagram @susanstriplingphotography
Feeling More at Ease With Your Existential Crises Now?
Isn’t it a bit freeing to know that even the most seasoned photographers can still experience some dread before a shoot? What topics would you like to hear about in future episodes? Let us know on social media on Instagram, Threads, or BlueSky. We would love to hear what you think.
