Podcast Show Notes for The Small Business Journey Show

Episode Title:

Finding Your Brand Through the Lens with Vanessa Ronowski, Branding & Lifestyle Photographer

Episode Description:

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, I sit down with my friend Vanessa—an incredibly talented personal branding and lifestyle family photographer. Vanessa shares her creative journey from discovering photography in high school to building a business that empowers women and small businesses through powerful, intentional imagery.

We talk about how impactful photography is when it comes to shaping brand identity, building client trust, and standing out in a saturated market. Vanessa also takes us behind the scenes of her client process—from vision boards to photoshoot day—and explains why branding photography is so much more than just a headshot.

Whether you’re a maker, a service provider, or just starting your small business journey, this episode will encourage you to show up confidently and authentically in your brand. Get ready to fall in love with branding photography and the thoughtful art Vanessa brings to every frame.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How Vanessa found photography as her creative outlet
• Her journey from film photography to full-time brand photographer
• The story behind her passion project in the NICU
• Why branding photography matters for small businesses
• The emotional impact of strong, intentional imagery
• A real-life example of how one scroll-stopping photo led to a business-changing experience
• Behind the scenes of her branding photography process
• Why showing personality is more powerful than the perfect headshot
• How Vanessa empowers her clients (especially women) to feel confident on camera
• Insights into Chanla's Small Business Retreat she attended

Links & Resources:

• Follow Vanessa on Instagram: @vanessa_ronowski_photo
• Learn more about her work: Vanessa Ronowski Photography
• The Small Business Retreat: www.thesmallbusinessretreat.com

Connect with the Show:

• Follow The Small Business Journey Show on Instagram: @smallbusinessretreat
• Learn more about my business: www.thesmallbusinessretreat.com

Leave a Review:

If you loved this episode, share it with a friend and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! It helps more small business owners find the show and feel less alone in the journey.