Experience is often valued because of the lessons prior jobs have theoretically provided us with. While hearing about those lessons isn’t a replacement for actually experiencing it, we thought it would be very helpful to create a space where sharp and generous members of the community can come together to share stories and lessons learned at prior jobs for the benefit of others.

Bridget Rodriguez

I’ve all all kinds of jobs, not all creative or related to photography. In one way or another, they all ended up helping me become a better business owner and photographer. For example, when I did sales- I felt so far from what I wanted to do creatively. Although I was very good at it. In hindsight, you’re basically selling yourself every time you get a new client. Sales teaches the importance of attitude, presentation and delivery of the final product. I also learned the importance of first impressions. Before ever calling myself a director, I experienced every position on set. From holding lights, to making mood boards to editing the project. It’s not until you work every position do you see how they all work together. I believe that allows you to be the best you can be, while humbling you. But I will still hold that light! Read more>>

Seema Sharma

For the past 25+ years, I have served in leadership roles at notable corporations, ranging from Fortune 500 companies to tech-based start-ups. My position required that I travel extensively, manage corporate teams, and effectively and efficiently facilitate cross-functional collaboration. Working in a leadership role, I had an opportunity to witness senior leaders, c-suite executives, and the management struggle – mostly alone and isolated – with personal and professional challenges. These struggles would impact the performance, teams, and the company as a whole. Senior leaders in most corporations spend most of their lives in the workplace. The business has the ability to consume them, impacting their professional performance and their personal lives in a variety of ways. Read more>>

Michael Serpe

I try to learn something from every project I work on. From the biggest, months-long musical to a single-day shoot. Even if the lesson is what not to do. When I first started, I made a promise to myself that the day I complete a project and say “I didn’t learn anything from that” is the day I get out of the business. For the good of the industry. The most important lesson that I’ve learned as an actor is to leave your ego out of the equation. It’s a lesson I have to learn repeatedly. But I believe that as actors, we serve the writer and the director of the piece. If they were a fine artist, we’re their paint or clay. Granted, we’re smart paint and smart clay. And if it suits the project, a director may give you time to play and find what works. But ultimately, you’re working towards their vision. If you have a problem with that, feel free to write or direct. Read more>>

Michelle Von Geis

My background in the hospitality industry prepared me well for serving my clients today. I spent a little over 10 years in the hospitality industry working in places such as the Walt Disney Company, Blackberry Farm, the University of Tennessee, and Chick-fil-A. I learned how to listen to customers, problem solve, provide an experience to customers, and to always be prepared.  The most important lesson I learned in hospitality is tied between always being prepared and providing exceptional customer service. For being prepared, I learned you have to think about all the different outcomes and be prepared for those situations. . In photography that could be a rainy wedding that was set to be outside. My job as a photographer is to not only capture the moment as is, but also to provide the best photos in the given area. So I always have clear umbrellas for the bride and groom, and scout out indoor spots of a ceremony site just in case I need to use it.  Read more>>