S1.E9.2 – Martine Severin on the Business of Commercial Photography

In Part 2 of our interview, Martine Severin (vsco.co/martineseverin/gallery) pulls back the curtain on the business and strategy of commercial photography. From test shoots and building a team to networking, portfolio reviews, and landing clients, she shares candid insights from 13 years in the industry.

📌 In Part 2, you’ll learn:

• Why commercial photography is a “tightly choreographed dance”
• How to show production value and prove you can lead a team
• The long game of relationships, outreach, and portfolio reviews
• Why being a decent human is as important as your photography

Whether you’re ready to move beyond weddings or want to understand how to thrive in commercial photography, this conversation is packed with wisdom.

00:29 — Building a portfolio through styled shoots
02:19 — Working with modeling agencies & creating lookbooks
04:52 — Showing production value & working with a team
06:20 — Outreach & marketing (24 emails a week)
08:25 — Portfolio reviews & the importance of feedback
10:13 — Building relationships that lead to work
11:02 — The long game: 13 years of growth
11:20 — Advice for aspiring commercial photographers
12:20 — Finding your voice & keeping at it
13:28 — Networking (or just meeting people)
14:20 — Be a decent human — why character matters
15:08 — Closing thoughts & where to find Martine’s work

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