🎙 Episode Summary
In this bonus episode of The One Behind the Lens, Kate sits down with Vickie Black—the founder of Senior Style Guide—to unpack the origins of SSG, the mission behind its supportive photography community, and the iconic Hot 100 contest. From overcoming rejection and industry competition to mastering workflows and maximizing sales, Vickie shares how photographers can elevate their craft, their business, and their confidence.
Whether you’re a seasoned senior photographer or just starting out, this episode is packed with inspiration, actionable tips, and behind-the-scenes insights into one of the most competitive contests in senior photography.
📌 What You’ll Learn
Vickie’s origin story: turning rejection into a thriving photography platform
How SSG fosters community over competition in a saturated market
Maximizing workflow efficiency to increase product sales
Navigating the Hot 100 contest: tips, tricks, and blind-judging insights
The importance of celebrating your unique style and value
🕒 Timeline
0:00 – Welcome! Meet Vickie Black, founder of Senior Style Guide
2:30 – From rejection to creation: SSG’s founding in 2011
5:45 – Pivoting from blog to print magazine and rapid growth
9:15 – Mission over competition: building a supportive photography community
13:00 – Workflow tips: 1.5-hour sessions → 100 frames → 42 delivered images
17:30 – Outsourcing editing and bookkeeping for efficiency and sanity
21:00 – Hot 100 Contest breakdown: rules, blind judging, and strategy
28:00 – How entering the contest sharpens critical self-evaluation
32:15 – Tips for submitting: Hot 100 buddy, image selection, category strategy
37:45 – Celebrating uniqueness in a saturated market
42:00 – SSG events, masterminds, and community-building
46:30 – Upcoming initiatives from SSG in 2026
50:00 – Final thoughts: No means not yet, and embracing growth
54:00 – Where to find Vickie and connect with Senior Style Guide
💾 Resources & Links
SSG Freebie / Download: SSG Issue 91
Hot 100 Contest: Enter by Nov 17, 11:59 PM ET
SSG Community: Facebook Group
Follow Vickie Online: Instagram: @seniorstyleguide
Rockbrook Camera, Now through 2025, save 25% off your rental order at Rockbrook Camera in Omaha or Lincoln, Nebraska. Redeem here
✨ Quote Highlights
"No means not yet. Every setback is just a chance to create something bigger and better." — Vickie Black
"Community over competition—when we lift each other up, we all rise higher." — Vickie Black
"Your uniqueness is your superpower. Stop comparing and start celebrating what only you can create." — Vickie Black
📄 Try This: Hot 100 Prep Challenge
Select a Hot 100 buddy for objective feedback
Enter all applicable categories to maximize visibility
Submit only sharp, high-quality images
Use the contest to critically evaluate your work and celebrate your style
💬 Final Thoughts
Vickie’s story is a masterclass in turning rejection into opportunity, fostering meaningful connections in photography, and embracing uniqueness as a tool for growth. Whether you’re submitting to the Hot 100 for the first time or looking to streamline your workflow, this episode is packed with actionable insights, inspiration, and encouragement to take your business and artistry to the next level.
Until next time —Let’s shutter up and shine. 💫 Kate
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