How To Film Weddings

John Bunn & Nick Miller

  • 1 hour 17 minutes
    459. The Apartment Photography Playbook: How Jeff Chang Built a World-Class Brand

    ⭐️ Musicbed -Switch today and get a 14 day free trial: https://bit.ly/45HQjhC

    In this episode of Shifting Focus, I sit down with Jeff Chang of The Apartment Photography — one of the most respected wedding photography brands in the world.

    Jeff shares his 20-year journey from shooting $200 weddings off Craigslist to building a globally recognized brand, all while staying creatively fulfilled. We dive into the tension between art and business, how to create images that actually mean something, and why most photographers stay stuck in the middle market.

    We also talk about:

    • How to create "portfolio-level" images on real wedding days

    • The balance between creativity and profitability

    • Why your network might be the missing piece in your growth

    • The mindset shift that changed everything after COVID

    • How Jeff built a massive following through simple, consistent content

    This is a masterclass in longevity, intentional growth, and building a business that doesn't kill your creativity.

    If you're trying to charge more, attract better clients, and actually enjoy the work you're creating, this one is for you.

    Follow The Apartment Photo:

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theapartmentphoto

    Website - https://www.theapartmentphoto.com/

    👋 Join My Circle Community: https://shifting-focus-with-john-bunn.circle.so/

    🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform: https://bit.ly/4owsWiM

    📱 Instagram:

    John Bunn - http://bit.ly/2AYTiE2

    John Bunn Films: https://bit.ly/43S3866

    Get in Touch:

    ✅ Brand deals, promotions, podcast info, etc., email [email protected]

    Sponsors and Affiliates:

    ⭐️ Bride and Groom Video - John's Personal Editor for Video: https://bridengroom.video/johnbunn/ - $100 off the first project of $400, promo code JOHNBUNN100

    ⭐️ Get 1500 Free Edits with Imagen.ai: https://imagen-ai.com/?ref=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Vidflow - Deliver your films and photos with the best - Try it free here https://signups.vidflow.co/ref/johnbunn

    ⭐️ Musicbed - The Best Place to License Music: https://bit.ly/45HQjhC - 14 day free trial

    ⭐️ Inly - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/41Akxkf - 10% off with promo code JOHN

    ⭐️ Lemlii - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/45rhAnl Promo Code - JohnBunn25 (25% off any plan for 12 months)

    ⭐️ Multiply Media - https://bit.ly/46OdZCe - 15% off with promo code JOHNBUNN

    ⭐️ PlotLine Pro - AI Powered, Story First Filmmaking Tool - 3 Free days - https://www.plotline.pro/?via=john

    ⭐️ Spingle - AI culling and editing - https://bit.ly/4m80XnZ - 2 week free trial

    ⭐️ Honeybook - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/4lmrKvf - 30% off

    ⭐️ Gamut - Color Presets and LUTs: https://gamut.io/product/luxe/?gamut=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Flodesk - Emails Made Easy: https://bit.ly/4md3ltE - 50% off

    The Shifting Focus Podcast, all rights reserved. All links are affiliate links and result in a commission for John Bunn Films if used. I appreciate the support. Help me by supporting my sponsors.

    #weddingvideography #weddingphotography #shiftingfocuspodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Jeff Chang and His Journey 02:14 The Evolution of Wedding Photography 05:28 Navigating the Early Days of Business 08:16 Growth and Challenges in the Wedding Industry 11:20 Post-COVID Transformation and New Opportunities 14:29 Balancing Creativity and Business 17:30 Defining Style and Artistic Vision 23:21 Balancing Creativity and Efficiency 27:40 Navigating Expectations on Wedding Days 32:25 The Exposure Triangle: Work, Network, and Brand 38:47 Continuous Improvement in Photography 43:22 Leveraging Social Media for Growth 47:56 The Power of Hooks in Content Creation 48:55 Understanding Consumer Behavior on Social Media 49:40 The Importance of Consistency in Content Production 50:34 Creating Engaging Reels: Tips and Techniques 51:07 Adding Value Through Educational Content 53:06 Building Relationships Through Authentic Content 54:37 Navigating Growth and Inquiries in a Growing Brand 56:25 The Balance of Fame and Authenticity 59:19 Creating Value Beyond Numbers 01:03:28 Future Plans and Educational Offerings 01:05:12 Fun Personal Insights: Disney and Lego

    13 April 2026, 11:30 am
  • 50 minutes 19 seconds
    458. From No Momentum to $20K Weddings (How I Did It)

    ⭐️ Bride and Groom Video - John's Personal Editor for Video: https://bridengroom.video/johnbunn/ - $100 off the first project of $400, promo code JOHNBUNN100

    👋 Join My Circle Community: https://shifting-focus-with-john-bunn.circle.so/

    Two years ago, I had no momentum.

    Fewer bookings than I expected, uncertainty in my business, and a lot of questions about what to do next.

    Today, I'm booking $20K weddings and operating from a completely different place.

    In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly what changed.

    Most wedding professionals don't stay stuck because they lack talent.

    They stay stuck because they never build real momentum.

    In this solo episode of Shifting Focus, I'm pulling back the curtain on what's actually changed for me over the last two years and why 2026 feels completely different in my business.

    After nearly 20 years in the industry, I found myself rebuilding from the ground up. No momentum, fewer bookings than expected, and a big question… what now?

    This episode is about what happened next.

    I walk through how I applied my Exposure Triangle system (work, brand, network), the mistakes I made, the hard year that nobody sees, and how that led to better weddings, higher prices, and a completely different level of opportunity.

    We also talk about:

    Why charging more builds trust, not guilt The difference between knowledge and action What ultra-high-end weddings actually unlock for your brand And how to stop waiting and start building momentum now

    If you've been feeling stuck in your business, this is the episode you need to hear.

    Because things don't change by accident.

    They change when you finally decide to move.

    🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform: https://bit.ly/4owsWiM

    📱 Instagram:

    John Bunn - http://bit.ly/2AYTiE2

    John Bunn Films: https://bit.ly/43S3866

    Get in Touch:

    ✅ Brand deals, promotions, podcast info, etc., email [email protected]

    Sponsors and Affiliates:

    ⭐️ Bride and Groom Video - John's Personal Editor for Video: https://bridengroom.video/johnbunn/ - $100 off the first project of $400, promo code JOHNBUNN100

    ⭐️ Get 1500 Free Edits with Imagen.ai: https://imagen-ai.com/?ref=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Wanderlust Videos - Wedding Video Editing: http://bit.ly/46JuGyF - 10% Off discount code: JOHNBUNN10

    ⭐️ Vidflow - Deliver your films and photos with the best - Try it free here https://signups.vidflow.co/ref/johnbunn

    ⭐️ Musicbed - The Best Place to License Music: https://bit.ly/45HQjhC - 14 day free trial

    ⭐️ Inly - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/41Akxkf - 10% off with promo code JOHN

    ⭐️ Storymix Media - Wedding Video Editing: https://bit.ly/47rrN5E

    ⭐️ Lemlii - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/45rhAnl Promo Code - JohnBunn25 (25% off any plan for 12 months)

    ⭐️ Multiply Media - https://bit.ly/46OdZCe - 15% off with promo code JOHNBUNN

    ⭐️ PlotLine Pro - AI Powered, Story First Filmmaking Tool - 3 Free days - https://www.plotline.pro/?via=john

    ⭐️ Spingle - AI culling and editing - https://bit.ly/4m80XnZ - 2 week free trial

    ⭐️ Honeybook - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/4lmrKvf - 30% off

    ⭐️ Gamut - Color Presets and LUTs: https://gamut.io/product/luxe/?gamut=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Flodesk - Emails Made Easy: https://bit.ly/4md3ltE - 50% off

    The Shifting Focus Podcast, all rights reserved. All links are affiliate links and result in a commission for John Bunn Films if used. I appreciate the support. Help me by supporting my sponsors.

    #weddingvideography #weddingphotography #shiftingfocuspodcast

    chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Shifting Focus Podcast

    05:39 The Evolution of John Bunn's Career

    11:32 Transitioning to Education and Community Building

    17:16 The Challenges of Balancing Business and Personal Life

    21:51 The Exposure Triangle System Explained

    27:40 Building Momentum in 2026

    33:33 Experiencing High-End Weddings

    39:43 Future Aspirations and Networking Strategies

    6 April 2026, 11:30 am
  • 34 minutes 16 seconds
    457. The Real Reason Your Films Don't Feel Premium with Red Lotus Films

    14 day free trial of Musicbed: https://fm.pxf.io/shiftingfocus-freetrial

    👋 Join My Circle Community: https://shifting-focus-with-john-bunn.circle.so/

    Most filmmakers think they need better gear, better clients, or more experience to charge more.

    But the real reason your films don't feel premium has nothing to do with any of that.

    In this episode, I sit down with TK from Red Lotus Films to talk about what actually creates feeling in a wedding film and why that's the thing clients are really paying for. We get into how he transitioned from corporate videography into weddings, how leaning into culture and music changed the way his films connect, and why intentional choices matter more than just "getting the shots."

    We also talk about the role of custom music, building a brand that stands out without chasing trends, and how relationships have played a huge part in his growth.

    On top of that, TK shares how he's using his business to give back through charity work in Sri Lanka, and why success for him goes beyond just bookings and revenue.

    If your work feels solid but not distinct, this episode will help you understand what might be missing.

    In this episode:

    • Why most wedding films don't feel premium

    • The role of music in shaping emotion and story

    • Transitioning from corporate work into weddings

    • Building a brand around culture and intentionality

    • Growing your business through relationships and trust

    • Giving back through filmmaking and mentorship

    Connect with TK / Red Lotus Films:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redlotusfilms/

    Ayven Foundation (Charity): https://www.redlotusfilms.ca/ayvenfoundation/

    🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform: https://bit.ly/4owsWiM

    📱 Instagram:

    John Bunn - http://bit.ly/2AYTiE2

    John Bunn Films: https://bit.ly/43S3866

    Get in Touch:

    ✅ Brand deals, promotions, podcast info, etc., email [email protected]

    Sponsors and Affiliates:

    ⭐️ Bride and Groom Video - John's Personal Editor for Video: https://bridengroom.video/johnbunn/ - $100 off the first project of $400, promo code JOHNBUNN100

    ⭐️ Get 1500 Free Edits with Imagen.ai: https://imagen-ai.com/?ref=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Wanderlust Videos - Wedding Video Editing: http://bit.ly/46JuGyF - 10% Off discount code: JOHNBUNN10

    ⭐️ Vidflow - Deliver your films and photos with the best - Try it free here https://signups.vidflow.co/ref/johnbunn

    ⭐️ Musicbed - The Best Place to License Music: https://bit.ly/45HQjhC - 14 day free trial

    ⭐️ Inly - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/41Akxkf - 10% off with promo code JOHN

    ⭐️ Storymix Media - Wedding Video Editing: https://bit.ly/47rrN5E

    ⭐️ Lemlii - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/45rhAnl Promo Code - JohnBunn25 (25% off any plan for 12 months)

    ⭐️ Multiply Media - https://bit.ly/46OdZCe - 15% off with promo code JOHNBUNN

    ⭐️ PlotLine Pro - AI Powered, Story First Filmmaking Tool - 3 Free days - https://www.plotline.pro/?via=john

    ⭐️ Spingle - AI culling and editing - https://bit.ly/4m80XnZ - 2 week free trial

    ⭐️ Honeybook - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/4lmrKvf - 30% off

    ⭐️ Gamut - Color Presets and LUTs: https://gamut.io/product/luxe/?gamut=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Flodesk - Emails Made Easy: https://bit.ly/4md3ltE - 50% off

    The Shifting Focus Podcast, all rights reserved. All links are affiliate links and result in a commission for John Bunn Films if used. I appreciate the support. Help me by supporting my sponsors.

    #weddingvideography #weddingphotography #shiftingfocuspodcast

    30 March 2026, 12:30 pm
  • 1 hour 3 minutes
    456. From $500 to $20K Weddings: Kevin Cochran's Rise to a Premium Brand in Texas

    👋 Join My Circle Community: https://shifting-focus-with-john-bunn.circle.so/

    Most filmmakers do not plateau because of talent. They plateau because they never make the jump.

    In this episode of Shifting Focus, I sit down with Kevin Cochran of 718 Creative to break down how he went from filming $500 weddings to building a premium wedding videography brand in the Texas market.

    Kevin shares what actually moved the needle: intentional networking, refining his brand, charging with confidence, and taking calculated risks when it would have been easier to play it safe. We talk about breaking out of the middle market, building a portfolio you are proud of, and why trust is the currency that drives everything in this industry.

    If you want to charge more without feeling fake, and grow a premium brand without losing your creativity, this conversation will show you what that path can look like.

    Connect with Kevin Cochran and 718 Creative:

    Website: https://718creative.com

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/718creative

    The Texas Wedding Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-texas-wedding-podcast/id1551234567

    🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform: https://bit.ly/4owsWiM

    📱 Instagram:

    John Bunn - http://bit.ly/2AYTiE2

    John Bunn Films: https://bit.ly/43S3866

    Get in Touch:

    ✅ Brand deals, promotions, podcast info, etc., email [email protected]

    Sponsors and Affiliates:

    ⭐️ Bride and Groom Video - John's Personal Editor for Video: https://bridengroom.video/johnbunn/ - $100 off the first project of $400, promo code JOHNBUNN100

    ⭐️ Get 1500 Free Edits with Imagen.ai: https://imagen-ai.com/?ref=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Wanderlust Videos - Wedding Video Editing: http://bit.ly/46JuGyF - 10% Off discount code: JOHNBUNN10

    ⭐️ Vidflow - Deliver your films and photos with the best - Try it free here https://signups.vidflow.co/ref/johnbunn

    ⭐️ Musicbed - The Best Place to License Music: https://bit.ly/45HQjhC - 14 day free trial

    ⭐️ Inly - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/41Akxkf - 10% off with promo code JOHN

    ⭐️ Storymix Media - Wedding Video Editing: https://bit.ly/47rrN5E

    ⭐️ Lemlii - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/45rhAnl Promo Code - JohnBunn25 (25% off any plan for 12 months)

    ⭐️ Multiply Media - https://bit.ly/46OdZCe - 15% off with promo code JOHNBUNN

    ⭐️ PlotLine Pro - AI Powered, Story First Filmmaking Tool - 3 Free days - https://www.plotline.pro/?via=john

    ⭐️ Spingle - AI culling and editing - https://bit.ly/4m80XnZ - 2 week free trial

    ⭐️ Honeybook - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/4lmrKvf - 30% off

    ⭐️ Gamut - Color Presets and LUTs: https://gamut.io/product/luxe/?gamut=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Flodesk - Emails Made Easy: https://bit.ly/4md3ltE - 50% off

    The Shifting Focus Podcast, all rights reserved. All links are affiliate links and result in a commission for John Bunn Films if used. I appreciate the support. Help me by supporting my sponsors.

    #weddingvideography #weddingphotography #shiftingfocuspodcast

    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to Kevin Cochran and 718 Creative

    03:28 The Journey of a Wedding Videographer

    12:09 Navigating the Wedding Industry During the Pandemic

    19:19 Breaking Through the Middle Market

    29:47 Finding Purpose and Connection in Business

    32:29 Building a Proud Portfolio

    35:15 Taking Calculated Risks

    39:19 The Importance of Trust in Relationships

    43:33 Networking and Maintaining Relationships

    47:22 Advice for Taking Risks

    52:18 Practical Tips for Videographers

    23 March 2026, 11:30 am
  • 57 minutes 26 seconds
    455. The Real Language of Luxury Wedding Experiences, with Emily Burton Designs

    👋 Join My Circle Community: https://shifting-focus-with-john-bunn.circle.so/

    If you think luxury is about venues and budgets, you are missing it. Luxury is about experience. And if you do not understand how to create one, you will stay stuck in the middle.

    In this episode of Shifting Focus, I sit down with Emily Burton to unpack what actually separates high-end planners from everyone else.

    Emily started as a floral designer and built her way into becoming a sought-after luxury wedding planner on St. Simons Island. Her growth was not accidental. It was intentional. It required refining her brand, elevating presentation, deepening client relationships, and understanding how experience drives value at the highest levels.

    We talk about what it takes to transition into the luxury market, how to design an elevated client journey, why networking is more about trust than transactions, and how personal connection becomes your greatest competitive advantage.

    If you want to move upmarket without becoming someone you are not, this episode will give you a clearer target.

    Connect with Emily Burton:

    Website: https://emilyburtondesigns.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilyburtondesigns/

    🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform: https://bit.ly/4owsWiM

    📱 Instagram:

    John Bunn - http://bit.ly/2AYTiE2

    John Bunn Films: https://bit.ly/43S3866

    Get in Touch:

    ✅ Brand deals, promotions, podcast info, etc., email [email protected]

    Sponsors and Affiliates:

    ⭐️ Bride and Groom Video - John's Personal Editor for Video: https://bridengroom.video/johnbunn/ - $100 off the first project of $400, promo code JOHNBUNN100

    ⭐️ Get 1500 Free Edits with Imagen.ai: https://imagen-ai.com/?ref=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Wanderlust Videos - Wedding Video Editing: http://bit.ly/46JuGyF - 10% Off discount code: JOHNBUNN10

    ⭐️ Vidflow - Deliver your films and photos with the best - Try it free here https://signups.vidflow.co/ref/johnbunn

    ⭐️ Musicbed - The Best Place to License Music: https://bit.ly/45HQjhC - 14 day free trial

    ⭐️ Inly - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/41Akxkf - 10% off with promo code JOHN

    ⭐️ Storymix Media - Wedding Video Editing: https://bit.ly/47rrN5E

    ⭐️ Lemlii - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/45rhAnl Promo Code - JohnBunn25 (25% off any plan for 12 months)

    ⭐️ Multiply Media - https://bit.ly/46OdZCe - 15% off with promo code JOHNBUNN

    ⭐️ PlotLine Pro - AI Powered, Story First Filmmaking Tool - 3 Free days - https://www.plotline.pro/?via=john

    ⭐️ Spingle - AI culling and editing - https://bit.ly/4m80XnZ - 2 week free trial

    ⭐️ Honeybook - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/4lmrKvf - 30% off

    ⭐️ Gamut - Color Presets and LUTs: https://gamut.io/product/luxe/?gamut=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Flodesk - Emails Made Easy: https://bit.ly/4md3ltE - 50% off

    The Shifting Focus Podcast, all rights reserved. All links are affiliate links and result in a commission for John Bunn Films if used. I appreciate the support. Help me by supporting my sponsors.

    #weddingvideography #weddingphotography #shiftingfocuspodcast

    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to Emily Burton

    03:10 Emily's Journey from Floral Design to Planning

    06:39 Current Business Landscape and Clientele

    11:40 Transitioning into Luxury Weddings

    16:42 Designing a High-End Client Experience

    22:02 Understanding the Language of Luxury

    29:05 Presentation, Positioning, and Networking

    37:11 Green Flags in Vendor Collaboration

    45:47 Building Genuine Relationships in the Luxury Market

    52:33 Personal Touch and Long-Term Reputation

    53:08 Why Experience Is the Real Product

    16 March 2026, 11:30 am
  • 41 minutes 36 seconds
    454. Mastering Wedding Etiquette with Alison Cheperdak of Elevate Etiquette

    What does professionalism actually look like at a wedding?

    Not on Instagram.

    Not in theory.

    But in the room.

    In this episode of Shifting Focus, I sit down with etiquette expert Alison Cheperdak to talk about modern wedding etiquette, social awareness, and the subtle behaviors that shape your reputation in the event industry.

    If you are a wedding photographer, filmmaker, planner, florist, or creative vendor, this conversation will sharpen how you show up with clients and fellow vendors.

    We cover:

    • The essential rules of wedding etiquette every vendor should know

    • Common wedding day faux pas that hurt your credibility

    • How to interact professionally with planners and clients

    • Navigating compliments and awkward conversations with confidence

    • Cultural considerations in dress and traditions

    • Why kindness is a competitive advantage in business

    Your work might get you in the room.

    But how you behave determines whether you are invited back.

    Connect with Alison:

    Website: https://www.elevateetiquette.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevateetiquette/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elevateetiquette

    Support Alison's new book:

    Was It Something I Said? https://elevateetiquette.com/book

    Recommended Resource Mentioned:

    Super Communicators by Charles Duhigg

    👋 Join My Circle Community: https://shifting-focus-with-john-bunn.circle.so/

    🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform: https://bit.ly/4owsWiM

    📱 Instagram:

    John Bunn - http://bit.ly/2AYTiE2

    John Bunn Films: https://bit.ly/43S3866

    Get in Touch:

    ✅ Brand deals, promotions, podcast info, etc., email [email protected]

    Sponsors and Affiliates:

    ⭐️ Bride and Groom Video - John's Personal Editor for Video: https://bridengroom.video/johnbunn/ - $100 off the first project of $400, promo code JOHNBUNN100

    ⭐️ Get 1500 Free Edits with Imagen.ai: https://imagen-ai.com/?ref=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Wanderlust Videos - Wedding Video Editing: http://bit.ly/46JuGyF - 10% Off discount code: JOHNBUNN10

    ⭐️ Vidflow - Deliver your films and photos with the best - Try it free here https://signups.vidflow.co/ref/johnbunn

    ⭐️ Musicbed - The Best Place to License Music: https://bit.ly/45HQjhC - 14 day free trial

    ⭐️ Inly - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/41Akxkf - 10% off with promo code JOHN

    ⭐️ Storymix Media - Wedding Video Editing: https://bit.ly/47rrN5E

    ⭐️ Lemlii - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/45rhAnl Promo Code - JohnBunn25 (25% off any plan for 12 months)

    ⭐️ Multiply Media - https://bit.ly/46OdZCe - 15% off with promo code JOHNBUNN

    ⭐️ PlotLine Pro - AI Powered, Story First Filmmaking Tool - 3 Free days - https://www.plotline.pro/?via=john

    ⭐️ Spingle - AI culling and editing - https://bit.ly/4m80XnZ - 2 week free trial

    ⭐️ Honeybook - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/4lmrKvf - 30% off

    ⭐️ Gamut - Color Presets and LUTs: https://gamut.io/product/luxe/?gamut=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Flodesk - Emails Made Easy: https://bit.ly/4md3ltE - 50% off

    The Shifting Focus Podcast, all rights reserved. All links are affiliate links and result in a commission for John Bunn Films if used. I appreciate the support. Help me by supporting my sponsors.

    #weddingvideography #weddingphotography #shiftingfocuspodcast

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Modern Etiquette

    03:56 The Journey to Etiquette Expertise

    06:26 The Impact of Social Media on Etiquette

    09:37 Understanding Wedding Etiquette

    12:40 Common Wedding Faux Pas

    15:34 Researching Wedding Etiquette

    18:38 Vendor Etiquette on Wedding Day

    21:37 Building Relationships with Wedding Planners

    24:35 Navigating Compliments and Conversations

    27:29 Maintaining Professionalism in Challenging Situations

    30:30 The Importance of Kindness in Etiquette

    33:23 Conclusion and Book Launch

    9 March 2026, 12:30 pm
  • 1 hour 4 minutes
    453. Most Wedding Creatives Stay Stuck… Here's Why Ryan Koral Didn't

    👋 Join My Circle Community: https://shifting-focus-with-john-bunn.circle.so/

    Most wedding creatives never actually get unstuck. They just work harder inside the same ceiling.

    In this episode of Shifting Focus, I sit down with Ryan Koral, one of the early pioneers of wedding filmmaking, to unpack the real reason some creatives grow, pivot, and build freedom while others stay trapped in the same cycle for years.

    Ryan started filming weddings in 2005, helped shape the education space for filmmakers, and eventually transitioned into corporate storytelling. But this episode is not about leaving weddings. It is about identity, brand, and building a business that supports your life instead of consuming it.

    We talk about letting go of control, the truth about branding, why most networking fails, and how storytelling is still the most powerful asset you have in business. Ryan also shares the mindset shift that allowed him to grow, delegate, and evolve without losing who he is.

    If you feel stuck between where you are and where you want to go, this episode will show you what actually needs to change.

    Ryan's Links

    Studio Sherpas https://www.studiosherpas.com/

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/growyourvideobusiness https://www.instagram.com/growyourvideobusiness

    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ryankoral/

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Ryan's early filmmaking journey

    01:53 From weddings to corporate without losing identity

    03:43 Why education and community shaped his career

    06:36 Ryan's current business model and priorities

    10:41 Storytelling as the foundation of brand and connection

    15:05 Growth requires delegation and letting go

    21:10 Control vs trust in creative business

    26:30 Balancing life, art, and business

    32:39 Early struggles and learning from mentors

    34:01 Networking that actually builds relationships

    38:09 Branding and perceived value in the market

    53:18 Crafting a brand story that feels true

    57:14 Continuous growth and authenticity

    🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform: https://bit.ly/4owsWiM

    📱 Instagram:

    John Bunn - http://bit.ly/2AYTiE2

    John Bunn Films: https://bit.ly/43S3866

    Get in Touch:

    ✅ Brand deals, promotions, podcast info, etc., email [email protected]

    Sponsors and Affiliates:

    ⭐️ Bride and Groom Video - John's Personal Editor for Video: https://bridengroom.video/johnbunn/ - $100 off the first project of $400, promo code JOHNBUNN100

    ⭐️ Get 1500 Free Edits with Imagen.ai: https://imagen-ai.com/?ref=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Wanderlust Videos - Wedding Video Editing: http://bit.ly/46JuGyF - 10% Off discount code: JOHNBUNN10

    ⭐️ Vidflow - Deliver your films and photos with the best - Try it free here https://signups.vidflow.co/ref/johnbunn

    ⭐️ Musicbed - The Best Place to License Music: https://bit.ly/45HQjhC - 14 day free trial

    ⭐️ Inly - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/41Akxkf - 10% off with promo code JOHN

    ⭐️ Storymix Media - Wedding Video Editing: https://bit.ly/47rrN5E

    ⭐️ Lemlii - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/45rhAnl Promo Code - JohnBunn25 (25% off any plan for 12 months)

    ⭐️ Multiply Media - https://bit.ly/46OdZCe - 15% off with promo code JOHNBUNN

    ⭐️ PlotLine Pro - AI Powered, Story First Filmmaking Tool - 3 Free days - https://www.plotline.pro/?via=john

    ⭐️ Spingle - AI culling and editing - https://bit.ly/4m80XnZ - 2 week free trial

    ⭐️ Honeybook - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/4lmrKvf - 30% off

    ⭐️ Gamut - Color Presets and LUTs: https://gamut.io/product/luxe/?gamut=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Flodesk - Emails Made Easy: https://bit.ly/4md3ltE - 50% off

    The Shifting Focus Podcast, all rights reserved. All links are affiliate links and result in a commission for John Bunn Films if used. I appreciate the support. Help me by supporting my sponsors.

    #weddingvideography #weddingphotography #shiftingfocuspodcast

    2 March 2026, 1:30 pm
  • 1 hour 2 minutes
    452. Inside the Mind of a High-End Wedding Planner | Rena Wiser, Event Lab

    👋 Join My Circle Community: https://shifting-focus-with-john-bunn.circle.so/

    What does it actually take to build a wedding planning brand that people trust at the highest level?

    Rena Wiser didn't inherit it. She didn't shortcut it. She earned it.

    After battling cancer and walking away from a stable career in the beverage industry, Rena took a leap of faith and started Event Lab. In this episode, she breaks down what most planners get wrong about branding, pricing, networking, and vendor relationships.

    If you want to get out of the middle market, this conversation hits all three pillars of the Exposure Triangle: Work, Brand, and Network.

    We talk about:

    • Starting at the bottom and earning your stripes

    • Working for free to learn the industry

    • Pricing based on value, not fear

    • Why authenticity attracts better clients

    • What drives planners crazy in vendor outreach

    • How collaboration actually works at the top level

    This is not theory. This is earned experience.

    If you're a planner, photographer, filmmaker, or creative trying to level up, this one will challenge you in the right ways.

    Listen in.

    Follow Rena here: https://www.instagram.com/eventlab1

    See Rena's Website: https://www.eventlab1.com/

    🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform: https://bit.ly/4owsWiM

    📱 Instagram:

    John Bunn - http://bit.ly/2AYTiE2

    John Bunn Films: https://bit.ly/43S3866

    Get in Touch:

    ✅ Brand deals, promotions, podcast info, etc., email [email protected]

    Sponsors and Affiliates:

    ⭐️ Bride and Groom Video - John's Personal Editor for Video: https://bridengroom.video/johnbunn/ - $100 off the first project of $400, promo code JOHNBUNN100

    ⭐️ Get 1500 Free Edits with Imagen.ai: https://imagen-ai.com/?ref=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Wanderlust Videos - Wedding Video Editing: http://bit.ly/46JuGyF - 10% Off discount code: JOHNBUNN10

    ⭐️ Vidflow - Deliver your films and photos with the best - Try it free here https://signups.vidflow.co/ref/johnbunn

    ⭐️ Musicbed - The Best Place to License Music: https://bit.ly/45HQjhC - 14 day free trial

    ⭐️ Inly - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/41Akxkf - 10% off with promo code JOHN

    ⭐️ Storymix Media - Wedding Video Editing: https://bit.ly/47rrN5E

    ⭐️ Lemlii - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/45rhAnl Promo Code - JohnBunn25 (25% off any plan for 12 months)

    ⭐️ Multiply Media - https://bit.ly/46OdZCe - 15% off with promo code JOHNBUNN

    ⭐️ PlotLine Pro - AI Powered, Story First Filmmaking Tool - 3 Free days - https://www.plotline.pro/?via=john

    ⭐️ Spingle - AI culling and editing - https://bit.ly/4m80XnZ - 2 week free trial

    ⭐️ Honeybook - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/4lmrKvf - 30% off

    ⭐️ Gamut - Color Presets and LUTs: https://gamut.io/product/luxe/?gamut=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Flodesk - Emails Made Easy: https://bit.ly/4md3ltE - 50% off

    The Shifting Focus Podcast, all rights reserved. All links are affiliate links and result in a commission for John Bunn Films if used. I appreciate the support. Help me by supporting my sponsors.

    #weddingvideography #weddingphotography #shiftingfocuspodcast

    00:00 Introduction to Rena Wiser's Journey

    02:40 Starting Event Lab: A Leap of Faith

    07:34 Understanding the Wedding Industry

    14:30 Pricing Strategies and Client Relationships

    19:40 Finding Your Niche in Event Planning

    26:19 Building a Collaborative Vendor Team

    31:44 The Importance of Teamwork in Weddings

    37:05 The Importance of Timelines in Wedding Planning

    38:01 Challenges with Non-Team Players

    39:59 Maintaining Professionalism in the Wedding Industry

    44:18 The Shift in Collaboration Post-COVID

    51:20 What Drives Rena Crazy in Vendor Outreach

    55:48 Building Genuine Relationships with Vendors

    23 February 2026, 12:30 pm
  • 1 hour 5 minutes
    451. Inside the Mind of an Ultra-Luxury Wedding Florist | Maxine Owens

    https://theexposuretriangle.com/ - Mentorship and Mastermind Group is now open for enrollment - grab a seat before they are gone

    What does it actually take to build an ultra-luxury brand in the wedding industry?

    Maxine Owens didn't grow her business by chasing more weddings. She did it by refining her work, elevating her brand, and building intentional relationships with the right people. Today, she designs some of the highest-end weddings in the industry while taking on only a limited number of events each year.

    In this conversation, Maxine shares how she transitioned from zoology to luxury floral design, why rebranding transformed her business, and how genuine networking created real momentum. We also talk about client experience, creative alignment, and why saying no is often the move that moves you forward.

    This episode quietly reflects all three pillars of the Exposure Triangle: Work, Brand, and Network.

    Follow Maxine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxowensdesign/

    Check out Maxine's Website: https://maxowensdesign.com/

    👋 Join My Circle Community: https://shifting-focus-with-john-bunn.circle.so/

    🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform: https://bit.ly/4owsWiM

    📱 Instagram:

    John Bunn - http://bit.ly/2AYTiE2

    John Bunn Films: https://bit.ly/43S3866

    Get in Touch:

    ✅ Brand deals, promotions, podcast info, etc., email [email protected]

    Sponsors and Affiliates:

    ⭐️ Bride and Groom Video - John's Personal Editor for Video: https://bridengroom.video/johnbunn/ - $100 off the first project of $400, promo code JOHNBUNN100

    ⭐️ Get 1500 Free Edits with Imagen.ai: https://imagen-ai.com/?ref=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Wanderlust Videos - Wedding Video Editing: http://bit.ly/46JuGyF - 10% Off discount code: JOHNBUNN10

    ⭐️ Vidflow - Deliver your films and photos with the best - Try it free here https://signups.vidflow.co/ref/johnbunn

    ⭐️ Musicbed - The Best Place to License Music: https://bit.ly/45HQjhC - 14 day free trial

    ⭐️ Inly - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/41Akxkf - 10% off with promo code JOHN

    ⭐️ Storymix Media - Wedding Video Editing: https://bit.ly/47rrN5E

    ⭐️ Lemlii - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/45rhAnl Promo Code - JohnBunn25 (25% off any plan for 12 months)

    ⭐️ Multiply Media - https://bit.ly/46OdZCe - 15% off with promo code JOHNBUNN

    ⭐️ PlotLine Pro - AI Powered, Story First Filmmaking Tool - 3 Free days - https://www.plotline.pro/?via=john

    ⭐️ Spingle - AI culling and editing - https://bit.ly/4m80XnZ - 2 week free trial

    ⭐️ Honeybook - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/4lmrKvf - 30% off

    ⭐️ Gamut - Color Presets and LUTs: https://gamut.io/product/luxe/?gamut=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Flodesk - Emails Made Easy: https://bit.ly/4md3ltE - 50% off

    The Shifting Focus Podcast, all rights reserved. All links are affiliate links and result in a commission for John Bunn Films if used. I appreciate the support. Help me by supporting my sponsors.

    #weddingvideography #weddingphotography #shiftingfocuspodcast

    00:00 Introduction and Background

    03:46 Maxine's Journey into Floral Design

    06:14 Transitioning to a Luxury Floral Business

    08:28 Building a Team and Expanding Services

    10:57 Rebranding and Elevating the Business

    13:56 Networking and Industry Connections

    17:00 The Importance of Social Media and Branding

    20:05 Overcoming Introversion in Networking

    22:54 Advice for Aspiring Floral Designers

    32:50 The Power of Mutual Benefit in Networking

    36:51 Finding Your Niche in the Wedding Industry

    39:59 Intentional Connections and Strategic Networking

    46:56 Building Momentum and Confidence in Your Business

    52:50 Understanding Minimums and Green Flags in Client Inquiries

    01:05:19 Designing for the Camera

    01:08:30 The Power of Collaboration

    01:09:17 Building Genuine Relationships

    01:10:49 Connecting with the Audience

    01:11:22 The Future of Education in Floral Design

    16 February 2026, 12:30 pm
  • 30 minutes 29 seconds
    450. Building the Business Behind the Creative | The Exposure Triangle in Action with Lemlii

    14 day free trial of Lemlii and 25% off by clicking here: https://john-bunn.com/lemlii

    Most creatives try to grow by improving their work. But real, sustainable growth happens when your Work, Brand, and Network are supported by the right systems.

    In this bonus episode, I sit down with Lucas and Joshua, the founders of Lemlii, to talk about the infrastructure behind calm, clear, and consistently booked creative businesses. We unpack how Lemlii was built specifically for wedding filmmakers, how smart automations remove daily overwhelm, and why your client experience is shaped just as much by your backend as your films.

    Through the lens of the Exposure Triangle, we explore how systems strengthen your work, create a more confident brand experience, and make you easier to trust, refer, and recommend. If you have ever felt buried in emails, scattered across platforms, or stretched thin managing leads, bookings, payments, and delivery, this conversation will show you a simpler, more focused path forward.

    This episode is not about software. It is about building a business that runs with clarity, confidence, and intention.

    Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform: https://bit.ly/4owsWiM

    📱 Instagram:

    John Bunn - http://bit.ly/2AYTiE2

    John Bunn Films: https://bit.ly/43S3866

    Get in Touch:

    ✅ Brand deals, promotions, podcast info, etc., email [email protected]

    Sponsors and Affiliates:

    ⭐️ Bride and Groom Video - John's Personal Editor for Video: https://bridengroom.video/johnbunn/ - $100 off the first project of $400, promo code JOHNBUNN100

    ⭐️ Get 1500 Free Edits with Imagen.ai: https://imagen-ai.com/?ref=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Wanderlust Videos - Wedding Video Editing: http://bit.ly/46JuGyF - 10% Off discount code: JOHNBUNN10

    ⭐️ Vidflow - Deliver your films and photos with the best - Try it free here https://signups.vidflow.co/ref/johnbunn

    ⭐️ Musicbed - The Best Place to License Music: https://bit.ly/45HQjhC - 14 day free trial

    ⭐️ Inly - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/41Akxkf - 10% off with promo code JOHN

    ⭐️ Storymix Media - Wedding Video Editing: https://bit.ly/47rrN5E

    ⭐️ Lemlii - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/45rhAnl Promo Code - JohnBunn25 (25% off any plan for 12 months)

    ⭐️ Multiply Media - https://bit.ly/46OdZCe - 15% off with promo code JOHNBUNN

    ⭐️ PlotLine Pro - AI Powered, Story First Filmmaking Tool - 3 Free days - https://www.plotline.pro/?via=john

    ⭐️ Spingle - AI culling and editing - https://bit.ly/4m80XnZ - 2 week free trial

    ⭐️ Honeybook - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/4lmrKvf - 30% off

    ⭐️ Gamut - Color Presets and LUTs: https://gamut.io/product/luxe/?gamut=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Flodesk - Emails Made Easy: https://bit.ly/4md3ltE - 50% off

    The Shifting Focus Podcast, all rights reserved. All links are affiliate links and result in a commission for John Bunn Films if used. I appreciate the support. Help me by supporting my sponsors.

    Chapter Markers

    00:00 Why systems support Work, Brand, and Network

    03:00 The story behind Lemlii and why it was built for filmmakers

    05:57 What makes Lemlii different for wedding creatives

    09:03 Automations that protect your time and creative focus

    11:56 Designing a simple and powerful business experience

    14:44 Elevating the client journey through delivery and communication

    17:48 Listening to users and shaping the future of Lemlii

    21:00 Final thoughts and how to build a more focused business

    #weddingvideography #weddingphotography #shiftingfocuspodcast

    12 February 2026, 4:34 pm
  • 1 hour 1 minute
    449. How Instagram Actually Works in 2026 (and Why Most Creatives Are Burnt Out)

    https://theexposuretriangle.com/ - Mentorship and Mastermind Group is now open for enrollment - grab a seat before they are gone

    In this episode of the Shifting Focus podcast, John Bunn sits down with Angela Shea, founder of Social Templates, to unpack how Instagram is really working heading into 2026. They talk burnout, mental health, authenticity, Reels, SEO, trial Reels, and how creatives can build consistency without letting social media run their lives. This is a practical, honest conversation about making Instagram part of your workflow, not the thing that drains it.

    Try Social Templates free for your first month - http://socialtemplates.co/johnbunn

    Promo code: JOHNBUNN

    🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform: https://bit.ly/4owsWiM

    📱 Instagram:

    John Bunn - http://bit.ly/2AYTiE2

    John Bunn Films: https://bit.ly/43S3866

    Get in Touch:

    ✅ Brand deals, promotions, podcast info, etc., email [email protected]

    Sponsors and Affiliates:

    ⭐️ Bride and Groom Video - John's Personal Editor for Video: https://bridengroom.video/johnbunn/ - $100 off the first project of $400, promo code JOHNBUNN100

    ⭐️ Get 1500 Free Edits with Imagen.ai: https://imagen-ai.com/?ref=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Wanderlust Videos - Wedding Video Editing: http://bit.ly/46JuGyF - 10% Off discount code: JOHNBUNN10

    ⭐️ Vidflow - Deliver your films and photos with the best - Try it free here https://signups.vidflow.co/ref/johnbunn

    ⭐️ Musicbed - The Best Place to License Music: https://bit.ly/45HQjhC - 14 day free trial

    ⭐️ Inly - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/41Akxkf - 10% off with promo code JOHN

    ⭐️ Storymix Media - Wedding Video Editing: https://bit.ly/47rrN5E

    ⭐️ Lemlii - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/45rhAnl Promo Code - JohnBunn25 (25% off any plan for 12 months)

    ⭐️ Multiply Media - https://bit.ly/46OdZCe - 15% off with promo code JOHNBUNN

    ⭐️ PlotLine Pro - AI Powered, Story First Filmmaking Tool - 3 Free days - https://www.plotline.pro/?via=john

    ⭐️ Spingle - AI culling and editing - https://bit.ly/4m80XnZ - 2 week free trial

    ⭐️ Honeybook - CRM for creatives: https://bit.ly/4lmrKvf - 30% off

    ⭐️ Gamut - Color Presets and LUTs: https://gamut.io/product/luxe/?gamut=johnbunn

    ⭐️ Flodesk - Emails Made Easy: https://bit.ly/4md3ltE - 50% off

    The Shifting Focus Podcast, all rights reserved. All links are affiliate links and result in a commission for John Bunn Films if used. I appreciate the support. Help me by supporting my sponsors.

    #weddingvideography #weddingphotography #shiftingfocuspodcast

    00:00 Introduction

    03:01 Burnout and mental health

    06:01 From photography to social media

    09:07 Creating Social Templates

    11:53 How Instagram is changing

    14:51 Generating leads with Reels

    18:11 Authenticity and personality

    31:25 Organizing content for consistency

    39:15 Using templates efficiently

    47:16 SEO on Instagram

    51:24 Trial Reels explained

    01:01:37 Mastermind and collaboration

    01:15:06 Ethics of remixing content

    9 February 2026, 12:30 pm
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