Sue Bryce is an internationally celebrated portrait photographer, educator, and entrepreneur who has transformed the modern portrait industry. With over 30 years behind the camera, Sue built one of the most recognizable brands in photography — empowering photographers around the world to create businesses that are both profitable and purpose-driven.

As the founder of The Portrait System and Sue Bryce Education, she’s taught thousands of photographers how to master posing, pricing, and the mindset needed for long-term success. Sue’s philosophy centers on self-value and confidence — helping creatives shift from scarcity and fear to abundance and belief.

Her work goes beyond photography; it’s about teaching people to see their own worth and reflect that power in every image they create. Sue continues to inspire a global community of photographers to build meaningful, sustainable careers doing what they love.

Roberto Valenzuela is a world-renowned fashion, portrait, and wedding photographer, celebrated for his dynamic artistry and practical teaching style. A Canon Explorer of Light, Profoto ambassador, and former classical guitarist, he channels creativity and precision into his craft.

Author of the bestselling Picture Perfect series and The Wedding Storyteller, Roberto’s expertise has made him a sought-after speaker at global photography events, inspiring photographers to elevate their work to extraordinary heights

Peter Hurley is a world-renowned portrait photographer, author, speaker, and coach whose work has redefined the art of the headshot. Known for capturing authenticity and confidence in front of the camera, he has become the global authority on headshot photography and human expression.

A former Olympic sailor turned Canon Explorer of Light, Peter’s journey from the water to the studio reflects his relentless pursuit of excellence. His bestselling book The Headshot and his dynamic coaching platform, Headshot Crew, have helped thousands of photographers around the world master both craft and connection.

Featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Good Morning America, The Today Show, and Nightline, Peter’s influence extends far beyond photography. His viral teachings on expression and self-perception led to his TEDx talk Bridging the Self-Acceptance Gap, inspiring millions to see themselves differently—both on camera and in life.

He lives in New York City with his wife and twin daughters, where his passion for people and purpose continues to shape everything he creates.

Nikki Closser is a personal branding photographer and host of The Portrait System Podcast. After leaving her career as a social worker, she built a thriving photography business and quadrupled her income, creating the dream life she once imagined.

Known for her relatable teaching style and transparent approach to business, Nikki blends real-world experience with mindset and marketing strategies that get results. She continues to inspire creatives around the world to believe in their worth, take action, and turn their passion into freedom. Through her courses, including The Personal Branding System, and her speaking engagements, Nikki has taught thousands of photographers how to do the same—combining mindset, confidence, and proven business strategy to create lasting success.

When she’s not mentoring or photographing clients, Nikki enjoys hobby farming, roller skating, and lake life in Michigan with her husband and two boys.

Meet the speakers

Chicago-based photographer Audrey Woulard has been a leading voice in portrait photography for over 20 years, earning international recognition for her work with teens and families.

A Nikon USA Ambassador, she’s known for her signature style and for drawing standing-room-only audiences at events like Imaging USA and WPPI. Audrey’s commercial clients include brands such as Pottery Barn and IAMS, and her work has appeared in People, InStyle, Better Homes and Gardens, and Professional Photographer Magazine.

Through her Light Exposed Workshops, she teaches photographers worldwide how to master light and portraiture. In 2021, she received the Vanguard Award from the Professional Photographers of America for her lasting impact on the industry.

Since 2002, Vanessa Joy has been photographing luxury weddings and corporate marketing initiatives, and educating photographers worldwide.

She focuses her business in NJ, NYC and Austin, TX but travels 150+ days a year for photography. Vanessa Joy is a highly sought after, industry-leading photographer in the wedding, business and portrait space. 

Crystal Byrd Uqdah is a personal branding photographer, creative director, and business owner based in Atlanta. Through her studio, Crystal On Brand, she has built a multi–six-figure business helping entrepreneurs, authors, executives, and small business owners show up boldly and confidently through powerful, brand-driven imagery.

With a focus on creating not only stunning visuals but also intentional strategy, Crystal teaches photographers how to step into the branding niche with confidence, clarity, and creativity. She is passionate about empowering women and business owners to embrace their evolving stories and elevate their presence through photography.

Sandra Coan is an award-winning photographer, best-selling author, industry educator, and proud Westcott Top Pro.

Based in Seattle, she is known for her timeless, natural approach to maternity, newborn, and family portraiture, as well as her expertise in creating natural-looking light with strobes and flash.

In addition to running her busy studio, Sandra teaches photographers worldwide through her books, online courses, and coaching programs. Sandra’s mission is to empower photographers to create work they love, build businesses that thrive, and find confidence in their artistry.

Pratik Naik is a high-end retoucher based out of the United States and specializing in commercial and editorial work. With over 15 years of experience, he still has a passion of mastering images in Photoshop. 

His background in fine art fuels his passion for retouching. He believes in a streamlined, seamless approach that honors the photographer's vision while achieving flawless results. His ultimate goal is to preserve the natural essence of an image while elevating it to match the photographer's highest standards.

In addition to his retouching work, he finds great satisfaction in teaching. He loves breaking down complex techniques into simple, digestible steps for aspiring retouchers. There's nothing more rewarding than that "aha!" moment when the puzzle pieces click into place for a student.

Pratik is also the founder of Infinite Color, a leading Photoshop color grading extension.

Jason Vinson is an award-winning wedding and documentary photographer known for his bold use of light and storytelling approach to real-life moments. Based in Arkansas, he runs Vinson Images with his wife, Chasnie, capturing weddings and portraits that blend emotion, artistry, and technical precision.

Jason’s work has been featured in Rangefinder, SLR Lounge, Fearless Photographers, and Fstoppers, where he also serves as a senior writer and educator. His dramatic, in-camera lighting techniques and behind-the-scenes tutorials have inspired photographers around the world to push creative boundaries and see everyday moments in extraordinary ways.

Dedicated to teaching photographers how to elevate both their craft and storytelling, Jason believes the best images come from curiosity, intention, and the courage to experiment.

Bee Trofort-Wilson is a sports and portrait photographer on a journey to motivate and inspire others through imagery and storytelling, showing that strength is beautiful in all forms, not only physical, but mental as well.

 In the sports industry, she has worked with organizations such as World Athletics, AMB Sports + Entertainment, The Atlanta Dream, Charlotte FC, and more. Additionally, she has shot campaigns for the CDC, Under Armour, Adidas, AMC, AARP, and more.

While creating with people striving to be their best selves, she wants to encourage others to “Bee Fearless” along the way. She opened Bee Fearless Studios in 2020, a rental photography and video studio, to provide equipment and resources for young artist to fearlessly create.

A portrait photographer’s secret weapon. A former “starving artist” turned powerhouse, Cat dismantles the lie that you can’t make real money doing what you love. Her superpower? Guiding committed photographers; those ready to lead, and turning them into confident CEOs who own their value, elevate their client experience, and build businesses that feel as good as they look on paper.

With a proven track record in both portrait artistry and sales psychology, Cat’s frameworks blend high-end branding, elevated service, and no-BS business strategy. She’s the mentor artists turn to when they’re done playing small, and ready to own their worth in every room they walk into.

Cat isn’t just changing the game; she’s rewriting the rules. Her work signals the end of the starving artist era and the rise of the embodied entrepreneur: one who leads with vision, sells with soul, and creates from deep, unshakable worth. If something inside you knows it was never just about the photos, you’re in the right place.

Jessica Malone is a portrait photographer, educator, and speaker who empowers creatives and entrepreneurs to thrive in any market. Since opening her studio in 2018, she has built a six-figure business in a small Midwest town, proving that success isn’t about location but about value, vision, and connection.

With over a decade behind the camera, Jessica specializes in empowerment and transformation. Her portraits help women, families, and business owners see their worth reflected back at them. Her coaching and workshops expand on the same philosophy: creativity and mindset are the most powerful tools for growth.

Jessica has guided photographers across the country to shift from scarcity to possibility, teaching practical strategies for pricing with confidence, marketing with authenticity, and creating transformative client experiences. Known for her energetic yet approachable style, she blends storytelling, strategy, and inspiration to help others step into their power and build businesses that reflect their values.

Shannon Reece Jones is a Houston-based portrait photographer specializing in maternity, newborn, and family photography. With a warm and professional style rooted in kindness, love, and faith, she creates timeless artwork through her luxury studio experience. Shannon helps families design keepsake albums, elegant wall portraits, and printed photographs that will be cherished for generations. As a busy working mom of three, she understands how quickly life flies by and how important it is to capture and preserve each milestone along the way.

In addition to serving her photography clients, Shannon mentors photographers through 1:1 coaching, online courses, and advertising services to help them grow their businesses. Drawing from her own experience building a successful portrait studio, and with a degree in Advertising, Marketing, and Technical Communication, she shares practical strategies with authenticity and professionalism. She teaches photographers how to attract high-end clients, sell artwork with confidence, and create a business that supports both their lifestyle and family.

Ambreia Turner is an award-winning photographer, business coach, and founder of a six-figure portrait studio in Washington, D.C.

With nine years of experience and accolades including the Portrait Masters Bronze Awards, she has become a trusted voice in the photography industry.

A speaker at events like The Photo Cookout, The Milky Way Retreats, The Peculiar Collective Conference, and The Mastery Summit, Ambreia also serves as an ambassador for Aftershoot, Fundy Software, and Sprout Studio. She co-hosts The Joint Venture Podcast with her husband Darren, where they share honest conversations about entrepreneurship and legacy.

Ambreia's passion is equipping photographers to shift their mindset, value their artistry, and build profitable, sustainable businesses.

Andre Brown is an award-winning wedding photographer based in Atlanta, Georgia. His work has been featured in top publications and been awarded by organizations including WPPI and PPA.

In addition to photographing luxury weddings, Andre is a speaker, educator, and the founder of Bokeh Academy Photo Summit, a three-day immersive photography conference.

Andre also serves as a brand ambassador for industry leaders such as Westcott, Nanlite, 17Hats, Aftershoot, and more.

Jeff Brown is an International Photography Business Mentor, Best Selling Photography Business Author, Public Speaker & President of The British Institute of Professional Photography. Also working for The International School Photography Conference Team he delivers sell-out courses & workshops around the world. Jeff works with photographers from all photographic backgrounds having a passion to help them grow their online brand & achieve their goals.   

Having served as a Royal Navy photographer then running 4 very successful photography companies of his own, he mentors photographers in over 20 countries. Part of Jeff’s major focus & teachings are in Goal Setting, Brand Message, Consistency, Website Layout & Website Content, the new AI & AEO search on Google, & also his favourite social media for photographers which is LinkedIn. 

Jeff has written 4 best selling photography books & published his first travel book – • The Photographers Missing Link-edIn
• The Ambitious Photographer’s Journal • Help My Photography Website Needs More Customers • The Photographer’s Gratitude & Mindset Journal   
• Plan Your Ultimate Northumberland 250 Road Trip  
He writes for several photography magazine & associations and is also an ambassador for OM System (Olympus), The British Photography Awards, Studio Ninja, & The Societies of Photographers.

We're Jenn and Charla—destination wedding photographer, portrait photographer, business owners, and the kind of mentors who share our failures as readily as our wins. With over three decades of combined experience, we've shot for Harper's Bazaar, Vogue, and Martha Stewart Weddings, but honestly? We're just creatives like you, figuring it out as we go.

Jenn brings 18+ years of storytelling magic, "that's what she said" jokes, and serious editing skills (she's the brain behind Kindred Presets). Charla's got 19+ years behind the camera, an Enneagram 7's zest for life, and zero tolerance for BS.

Together, we created Develope Academy because we wanted to be the friends, mentors, and educators we didn't have. We keep it real, not perfect. We're laid-back but pointed. We promise honesty, purpose, and joy—plus expert know-how on photography and business.

No easy button. No secret formula. Just two bad*ss mentors ready to guide the way.