Episode Overview
Title: Why I Attended the Wedding Workshop, and Why I’m Attending Again
Podcast: Adorama Narrated
Date: March 12, 2026
Read by: Nikki Haller
Original Author: Jennifer Maloney (from Adorama’s 42 West Blog)
This episode is a personal reflection and deep-dive into the NYC Wedding Photography Workshop, shared by photographer Jennifer Maloney. It covers her experiences at the workshop over two years, how participation became transformative both personally and professionally, and why she passionately recommends it—not just to wedding photographers but to creatives of all stripes.
Key Discussion Points and Insights
1. The Turning Point (00:34)
- Jennifer’s Life Before the Workshop:
- “Within the span of a single week, I lost my corporate job, finalized my divorce, and learned that my landlord was selling the house where I was raising my two boys.” (00:39)
- Faced with uncertainty, she decided to “bet on myself” and pursue photography full-time.
- Perspective Shift:
- Photography moved from a side hustle to a lifeline and means of personal stability.
- “As crazy as it sounds, I decided that relying on someone or something else was the riskier option… So I went all in on photography.” (01:07)
2. Discovering the Workshop (02:06)
- Jennifer found the Adorama Wedding Photography Workshop while researching gear upgrades for her transition to full-time photography.
- “On impulse, I signed up. My plan was simple: test some gear, ask a few questions, and maybe reconnect with the photography community.” (02:17)
3. Beyond Gear: Community, Mentorship, and Connection (03:00)
- Memorable Community Moments:
- Nearly missed winning a raffle due to engaging conversation, then won a 2TB hard drive. “He must have called my number several times before it finally clicked…” (03:22)
- Won a $50 gift card the following year.
- Forging Relationships:
- Developed friendships with other photographers and industry figures like Jacqueline Tobin (photo editor) and Susan Stripling (noted wedding photographer and educator).
- “The workshop offered not only learning, but real connection, mentorship, and a sense of belonging in this often solitary business.” (04:04)
4. Taking Advantage of Adorama’s Resources (04:36)
- Jennifer spent the year diving deep into AdoramaTV, “Coffee with Creators,” and other free educational resources.
- On returning to the workshop, she was more intentional: “At each setup, I fully immersed myself by studying lighting, camera settings, and the creative decisions behind every frame.” (05:07)
- Praise for workshop quality: “Each set felt editorial, luxurious, and dramatic. Think New York City meets cinematic, magazine-ready perfection.” (05:16)
5. The Gear Journey (05:38)
- Hands-on with Nikon’s new offerings, especially the 24-70mm f/2.8 lens: “After two frames, I was hooked. I’m officially adding it to my wish list.” (05:46)
- Eventually selected the Nikon Z6 III with a 24-120mm and 40mm lens for her professional upgrade; looking forward to adding a telephoto for her sons’ sports games, which she calls “the most treasured and fulfilling of all my gigs.” (06:07)
6. Printique and the Tangibility of Prints (06:38)
- Worked with Printique and won their portfolio contest; created a coffee table book of her Women’s March images from 2017 alongside stunning new photo products.
- Emphasizes the importance of physical prints: “Holding printed products reminds me why photography is meant to exist beyond a screen and serves as our own legacy as photographers.” (07:08)
- Her featured metal print will be exhibited at the Yellow Studio in Cross River, NY.
7. Business Wisdom with Vanessa Joy (07:38)
- New addition to the workshop: a focused business session led by Vanessa Joy.
- Covered professional presentation and client experience: “Her insights reinforced that artistry and entrepreneurship go hand in hand.” (07:58)
- Underscored that running a sustainable business is as important as creating beautiful images.
8. Lessons and Looking Forward (08:23)
- Workshop isn’t just for wedding photographers: shooting weddings touches all aspects—documentary, portrait, event, fashion, and still-life.
- Value in remaining open to learning: “For me, that openness has changed everything from the way I see my clients, to the way I run my business, to the way I see myself as a photographer.” (08:48)
- Workshop is a catalyst for growth and source of inspiration, “more than just an event—it’s a community.”
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
-
On Taking Risks:
“I decided that relying on someone or something else was the riskier option. So I went all in on photography.” (01:07) -
On Winning the Raffle:
“He must have called my number several times before it finally clicked and somehow I walked away with a brand new OWC 2 terabyte portable hard drive.” (03:22) -
On Community:
“The workshop wasn’t just about gear or technique, but about shared experiences and community.” (03:38) -
On Physical Prints:
“Holding printed products reminds me why photography is meant to exist beyond a screen and serves as our own legacy as photographers.” (07:08) -
On Business and Artistry:
“Photography isn’t just about beautiful images. It’s about running a business that serves clients well and sustains you as an artist.” (07:49) -
On Growth and Belonging:
“The wedding photography workshop has become more than just an event. It’s a community, a source of inspiration, and a catalyst for growth.” (09:11)
Timestamped Highlights
- 00:34 — Personal turning point: sudden changes lead Jennifer to focus on photography
- 02:06 — Discovery and impulse decision to attend first workshop
- 03:22 — Humorous raffle win story
- 04:04 — Making lasting connections in the industry
- 05:07 — Immersion in learning at the second workshop
- 05:16 — Praise for the editorial, high-touch workshop sets
- 05:38 — Equipment trials: falling for the 24-70mm f/2.8 lens
- 06:38 — Printique partnership and portfolio wins
- 07:38 — Business insights from Vanessa Joy’s session
- 08:23 — Universal value of the workshop for all photographers
- 09:11 — Workshop as community and inspiration
Final Thoughts
This episode offers a heartfelt, practical, and inspiring look into how a focused photography workshop can catalyze creative growth, professional development, and new connections. Jennifer Maloney’s story is accessible, relatable, and encouraging—she demonstrates that growth comes from taking chances, remaining open to new experiences, and seeking both technical skill and meaningful human connection. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just stepping in, the lessons here are universal: stay open, seek your community, and keep creating.