435. From Discount Weddings to 20K Bookings: A Year of Transformation
Shifting Focus (How To Film Weddings)
In this solo episode of Shifting Focus, I’m breaking down the exact steps I took to go from charging half my worth to securing $20,000 wedding bookings in just one year. This is the real behind-the-scenes story of how I rebuilt my business, redefined my brand, and committed to the kind of consistency that actually moves the needle. I’m sharing the moment things shifted for me, starting with a $7,500 wedding that changed everything. Instead of seeing it as a setback, it became the catalyst that reignited my passion and reminded me what was possible when I treated every project as an...
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434. HTFW is Back?? - The Future of How to Film Weddings with Jaired Sullivan
Shifting Focus (How To Film Weddings)
In this episode of Shifting Focus with John Bunn, we sit down with Jared Sullivan, the new leader of How to Film Weddings, to talk about the exciting next chapter for one of the most beloved communities in the wedding filmmaking world. Jared opens up about his 13-year journey as a filmmaker, how his YouTube channel began during COVID, and what inspired him to carry the legacy of How to Film Weddings forward. From the challenges of growing on YouTube to his vision for a fresh, community-driven future, this conversation is packed with insight for filmmakers, educators, and creatives alike. ...
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433. Behind the Details of Ultra-Luxury Wedding Design - Ink and Press Co, Mikyla Marie Manu
Shifting Focus (How To Film Weddings)
Behind the Details of Ultra Luxury Wedding Design In this episode John sits down with Mikyla Marie Manu of Ink & Press Co., a master stationer and calligrapher working at the highest tier of the wedding industry. They dive deep into what it means to craft ultra luxury weddings, the stationer’s role from first concept to final piece, how event branding elevates the entire day, and why collaboration and emotional investment are key. Mikyla shares how she partners with planners and creatives to deliver refined, meaningful experiences that go far beyond paper. They talk about pricing with...
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432. What I’ve Learned About the Luxury Market — The Truth No One Talks About
Shifting Focus (How To Film Weddings)
Most creatives think breaking into the luxury wedding market is all about having the best work. But after nearly 20 years in the industry, I’ve learned that luxury isn’t just about visuals. It’s about the experience you provide. In this episode of Shifting Focus, I’m sharing the real lessons I’ve learned while leveling up my wedding filmmaking brand. From building deeper relationships with planners and vendors to curating a high-touch client experience, I’m diving into what actually moves the needle in high-end weddings. We’ll talk about: • Why quality work alone...
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431. The Bridal Theory - Instagram in 2026
Shifting Focus (How To Film Weddings)
In this episode of Shifting Focus, host John Bunn talks with Amanda Writesman, founder of The Bridal Theory, about how wedding creatives can master their marketing strategies heading into engagement season. They dive deep into how Instagram continues to evolve heading into 2026 and why it remains one of the most powerful platforms for visibility, connection, and brand growth. Amanda breaks down what’s actually working on social media right now, how to build a strategic content plan, and how to use analytics and insights to create posts that convert. You’ll also hear how to find the balance...
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430. Michael Cassara - Navigating the Wedding Industry
Shifting Focus (How To Film Weddings)
In this episode, I sit down with wedding photographer and podcast host Michael Cassara to talk about what it really takes to build a thriving business in today’s creative industry. Michael shares his journey from leaving a corporate job to going all in on photography, how he navigated the challenges of the pandemic, and why client experience has been the key to his success. We also dig into the growth of his show, The Vendor Table, and how it has become more than just a podcast. It’s a platform that connects and educates wedding professionals. Together, we talk about the balance between...
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429. Danielle Ambry - Building a Photography Brand // Shifting Focus Podcast
Shifting Focus (How To Film Weddings)
In this episode of the Shifting Focus podcast, host John Bunn interviews photographer Danielle Ambry, who shares her journey from being a graphic designer to a successful wedding photographer. Danielle discusses her passion for education, her approach to pricing, and the importance of personal branding and social media in growing her business. She also delves into her expertise in flash photography, offering insights into her course designed to help photographers master this skill. The conversation highlights the significance of authenticity, audience engagement, and continuous learning in the...
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428. Katelyn James - Building a Multi-Seven Figure Business
Shifting Focus (How To Film Weddings)
Katelyn James joins me on Shifting Focus to share how she went from shooting weddings in college to building a multi seven figure education platform. We dig into what it really takes to stay consistent, build trust with your audience, and create a brand that lasts. Katelyn opens up about the challenges behind success, the power of personal branding, and why embracing change is key to long term growth. Check out Katelyn's site here: Take the 'Find Your Fix' Quiz: Follow on IG: and 🎧 Listen to the podcast on your favorite platform: 📱 Instagram: John Bunn -...
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427. Sam Jacobson - The Future of AI in the Wedding Industry
Shifting Focus (How To Film Weddings)
In this conversation, Sam Jacobson and John Bunn explore the transformative impact of AI on the wedding industry and small businesses. They discuss the evolution of AI from a novelty to a powerful tool that can enhance business operations, marketing, and client relationships. Sam emphasizes the importance of adapting to AI technology, using it as a team member, and leveraging data to make informed decisions. T he discussion also highlights practical applications of AI, including recruitment, sales processes, and personal branding, while stressing the need for maintaining the human element in...
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426. Oak and Iron Photography - Unleashing Creativity in Wedding Photography
Shifting Focus (How To Film Weddings)
In this episode I sit down with Bianca and Kyle Thompson from Oak and Iron Photography to talk about their journey in the wedding world. We dive into how they’ve built a business that blends creativity with great client communication, and how they balance classic wedding traditions with fresh, innovative ideas. They share how their style has evolved over time, why candid moments matter so much, and give real advice on avoiding burnout while still delivering work that truly connects with clients. Takeaways Your work should be so good that your personality is irrelevant. Don't visit...
info_outlineSpoiler alert: you're not just selling a video, a photo gallery, or a floral arrangement. You're selling peace of mind. You're selling trust. You're selling the confidence that your couple’s day is going to feel how they’ve always imagined it.
In this episode, we’re talking about the deeper transformation your clients are actually buying—and how to reframe your messaging, pricing, and brand experience around that. Whether you’re a filmmaker, photographer, planner, or any creative in the wedding industry, this is the mindset shift that unlocks higher pricing, better clients, and stronger referrals.
→ Connect with me:
https://www.johnbunnfilms.com
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