Episode 40 - Johnny Guerrero

In this episode of the Shutter Saga Podcast, host Marvin Blue sits down with Johnny Guerrero, a senior and wedding photographer whose path is as powerful as his images. From his early years in the military, through his career in law enforcement, to his transformation into a full-time creative and business owner, Johnny’s journey is a testament to purpose, perseverance, and passion.

Johnny is also a fellow podcaster and the host of the Trading Holsters Podcast, where he shares honest conversations about the realities of service, identity, and life after the badge. His transition from wearing a uniform to wielding a camera lens offers incredible lessons on resilience, storytelling, and rediscovering your “why.”

Segment 1: From Service to Structure — The Military Mindset

• Johnny reflects on his time in the military and how it shaped his sense of discipline, leadership, and mental focus.
• The habits and mindset from his service that continue to influence his approach to photography and entrepreneurship.
• How the structure of military life taught him to adapt quickly, plan strategically, and execute with precision.

Segment 2: Life Behind the Badge

• A candid look at Johnny’s years in law enforcement — the challenges, rewards, and what it taught him about human connection.
• The parallels between serving in law enforcement and working in photography — empathy, observation, and storytelling.
• How this period of his life deepened his perspective and emotional connection to the people he photographs today.

Segment 3: Finding Freedom Through Photography

• The turning point where Johnny picked up a camera and began building a new identity through art.
• How photography became an outlet for healing, creativity, and rediscovery.
• Why senior and wedding photography felt like a natural fit — capturing life’s celebrations after years of witnessing life’s hardest moments.

Segment 4: Building a Brand and a Community

• Johnny shares how he launched and grew his photography business with authenticity and purpose.
• Insights on creating meaningful client experiences, especially for seniors and couples.
• How hosting Trading Holsters Podcast connects his worlds — using his voice to serve others while inspiring those in transition.

Segment 5: Real Stories, Real Lessons

• Johnny opens up about his most memorable shoots and what they taught him about people and purpose.
• The power of storytelling — whether through an image, a wedding film, or a podcast mic.
• His message for veterans, officers, and creatives looking to reinvent themselves.

Rate & Review:
If you enjoyed this conversation, leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help more photographers discover these real, behind-the-scenes conversations.

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