We sit down with wedding photographer Staci Brucks, a next-gen creative redefining what it means to build a photography business in the digital age. Launching full-time in late 2019, Staci grew her brand through Instagram—amassing over 122,000 followers—and built a strong online community during a time of global uncertainty.
But everything changed when she attended WPPI 2025—her first live industry event. She went alone, unsure of what to expect, and left with something far more powerful than knowledge: real connection. Meeting the faces behind brands, late-night conversations, and finally stepping into a room full of like-minded creatives left her feeling seen, inspired, and reinvigorated.
Staci shares how many Gen Z and newer photographers don’t even realize events like this exist—and how transformative they can be. In a world built online, sometimes the biggest breakthroughs happen when you show up in person.
She also walks us through how she uses tools like Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses to bring followers behind the scenes of wedding days—sharing raw, authentic content that sparks curiosity and drives engagement. It’s proof that modern marketing is as much about personality as it is about photos.
Many new photographers simply don’t know awards exist—it’s not even part of their culture. We reflect and give insight on the value of awards in pushing creative boundaries and how entering them can be a powerful form of professional growth and development.
There’s so much in this conversation—it’s fresh, honest, and exactly what the industry needs to hear. If you’re part of the next generation of photographers (or guiding one), or if you’re an industry partner thinking about the future, this episode is a must-listen.
Lean in, take notes, and listen carefully—because the next generation is here, and they’ve got something to say.
