Are you doing it because you are copying somebody and copying a trend or are you doing it because you authentically believe it is storytelling? These are the types of questions that led today’s guest, Christina McNeill, to discover who she truly was as an artist.
On today’s episode, Christina shares her view on how to be unapologetically yourself in this industry. She discusses the importance of having your own signature style and allowing the client to fully trust you and your process. If someone were to see your work without your name on it would they be able to tell it is you? It’s time to own your artistry because after all what people really want is for you to simply be you!
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There’s a moment in every creative’s journey when you realize blending in isn’t the goal—standing out is. But in an industry flooded with trends, it’s easy to lose sight of your creative voice. That’s exactly why this conversation with San Francisco-based photographer Christina McNeill hit home.
Christina shared how she went from an art school student with zero interest in weddings to one of the most distinctive, in-demand photographers in the luxury market. But her rise wasn’t fast or flashy—it was intentional, rooted in artistry, and fueled by a deep understanding of who she is and who her work is for.
She is truly a force!
Her story is a reminder that you don’t need to follow a template to find success. You just need to find the version of success that’s aligned with yyour style and values.
One of the most admirable parts of Christina’s journey is how she took her time. She kept a second job for years, took on work that fueled her creatively, and waited to go “full-time” until it truly made sense. She wasn’t chasing quick wins—she was building something that would last.
And over time, that intentionality led her to clients who value her perspective, trust her eye, and want her for exactly who she is.
It’s a powerful reminder that not rushing the process can sometimes be your biggest advantage. You can be strategic without sprinting. The key is knowing what you stand for—and who you’re building for (ding, ding, ding, your ideal client should be ringing in your ear right now). Because when you’re clear in your artistry, your dream clients will see it.
If your brand doesn’t reflect the kind of work you want to be known for, or if you’re stuck trying to appeal to everyone and ending up booked by no one—this is your moment to reset.
If you’re tired of playing it safe and ready to start attracting higher end clients who trust your vision and value your artistry, it’s time to stop blending in.
The Luxury Mastermind is a 12-week experience designed to help photographers and filmmakers build brands that reflect their true creative voice—and scale them into premium, profitable businesses.
Inside, we help you uncover what makes your work unique, refine your positioning, and build a marketing and pricing strategy that actually supports the business you want to run.
It’s for the artist who’s ready to step into the luxury space without losing themselves in the process.
If that’s you, we’d invite you to head over to thelevelupco.com/mastermind.
