The Outspoken Artist

EP 065 of the Outspoken Artist Podcast features a powerhouse conversation with Sal Cincotta—entrepreneur, photographer, and founder of ShutterFest. Recorded on-location at ShutterFest 2025, this episode digs into the grit and guts it takes to build a truly original creative event.We explore the origin story of ShutterFest, its iconic “Rent-a-Human” model program, and why a late-night, hands-on culture still matters. Sal opens up about his mother’s sacrifices, the discipline of military school, and what authenticity means in a brand-driven world. Plus, unexpected moments—like chocolate, cooking, and stories that go way beyond photography.Available now on all platforms, including YouTube.Follow this link for full episodes, behind-the-scenes clips, exclusive merch, and ways to support the show.

Photographer and creative director Alissa Cincotta brings bold energy and clarity to every project—and every conversation. From the floor of ShutterFest 2025, she opens up about trusting her instincts, stepping into leadership, and the real work of building something lasting in a shifting industry.Also available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.Follow this link for full episodes, bonus content, behind-the-scenes clips, and support options.

What happens when a creative leap turns into a calling? In this AfterHours episode from ShutterFest 2025, Chinonye Omeife shares how a spontaneous camera purchase at Walmart sparked a photography journey filled with curiosity, mentorship, and bold experimentation.Still early in his creative path, Chinonye reflects on exploring new genres, breaking through gear anxiety, and how one mentor’s push to attend ShutterFest reshaped his mindset. From pet portraits to off-camera flash, this candid conversation captures the momentum of an emerging voice fueled by purpose and community.This is Episode 061 of The Outspoken Artist podcast.Follow this link for full episodes, bonus clips, and ways to support the show.Also available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms.

In the very first full Spanish-language episode of The Outspoken Artist, host Jean Carlo sits down with Peruvian photographer and educator Veronica Benson—live from ShutterFest 2025.Veronica opens up about her journey immigrating to the U.S., co-founding a photography business with her husband Justin, and later helping launch the innovative post-production tool AfterShoot. What started as a tool to save time became a mission to restore photographers’ creative energy.She shares powerful reflections on identity, Latinx representation in the industry, and her dedication to uplifting underserved creative communities across Central and South America. Veronica also spotlights two Latina photographers making waves: Maideline Inés and Fabiana Sebastiani.This episode is a raw, vibrant celebration of resilience, creativity, and connection—across cultures and continents.EP067 is available now, in Spanish.Follow this link for full episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and ways to support the show. Full video also available on YouTube.

From the Bagel Capital of the World to the creative chaos of ShutterFest 2025, Melissa Harden brings Midwest warmth and bold originality to this AfterHours conversation.Best known for her senior portraits and event work, Melissa opens up about her new path into funeral photography—a deeply human niche aimed at preserving connection and memory. We talk about photographing other photographers, the quirks of “Rent a Human,” and how vulnerability fuels creative courage.EP# 058 is available now, with full video on YouTube.Follow this link for bonus content, behind-the-scenes clips, and ways to support the show.

How do you grow a photography business by putting service before sales? In this AfterHours session from ShutterFest 2025, Leroy Tademy shares how he built a successful volume and school photography brand from scratch—starting with local sports teams and expanding through word of mouth and trust.From making his own parachute dress to building meaningful community connections, Leroy’s story is full of creative hustle, smart strategy, and humble wisdom. Whether you're looking to grow your client base or give back through your craft, this episode delivers both inspiration and actionable advice.EP# 056 is available now, with full video on YouTube.Follow this link for bonus content, behind-the-scenes clips, and ways to support the show.