Foto 033 - Elizabeth Messina

Michael talks with photographer, author, and educator Elizabeth Messina about building a long, values-driven career in photography. They trace her path from the darkroom at San Francisco Art Institute to a 6 month-long trip in India and an early museum solo show, then into client work, books, and education. Elizabeth shares practical thoughts on trust, privacy, and respectful collaboration; working with high-profile clients, balancing film instincts with digital workflows; and why community and consistency matter more than hype.Elizabeth just launched her new course 'The Arte Of Maternity' on Feb 14th, 2026. It's available now at The Arte Dept website.Website: https://www.elizabethmessina.comThe ARTE Dept (courses): https://theartedept.comThe ARTE Society (membership): https://theartesociety.comBook — The Luminous Portrait: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/210741/the-luminous-portrait-by-elizabeth-messina-with-jacqueline-tobin/Book — The Silver Lining: https://www.amazon.com/Silver-Lining-Supportive-Insightful-Breast/dp/1476743711 Get full access to Foto at fotoapp.substack.com/subscribe