It’s Not About You: Tough Love For True Visibility for Experts

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Amanda interviews visual storytelling expert John DeMato, who shares how his journey from behind the scenes of daytime television to behind the camera helped him discover and share his own great work. John specializes in photographing speakers, coaches, authors, and other experts—not just capturing what they look like but revealing who they truly are.
We talk about:
- The deep emotional impact of branding images
- Why great photos aren't about looking perfect
- How mindset and personal growth influence how you show up in your images
- John's personal story of transformation and how loss catalyzed his pivot into entrepreneurship
- What it means to create a portfolio of images that dances
- The real reason your favorite image might not be the most effective one
- Why your visuals should reflect not just what you do, but who you are
📸 John also shares a powerful message: “It’s not about you—it’s about them.”
🧠 This episode is a masterclass in authenticity, storytelling, and showing up for your audience with heart.
LINKS
johndemato.com (newsletter signup is at the bottom of the page)
BIO
John DeMato is a visual storytelling expert who specializes in photographing experts—speakers, trainers, coaches, consultants, and authors—capturing a wealth of genuine moments and emotions that elevate their authority and credibility. John’s work helps his clients prove what they say by capturing them in genuine ways, creating a visual narrative that resonates with their audience.
Through a combination of strategic planning and expert execution, John collaborates with his clients to build compelling image portfolios that demonstrate who they are, who they serve, and how they solve problems. He also empowers them to strategically implement these visual assets across their entire online presence, visually punctuating the sentiment behind every story they tell.
A former talk television producer for NBC Universal’s Maury, John brings over 24 years of experience behind the camera, working with Hall of Fame speakers and emerging talents alike, helping them deliver their transformational message to the audiences that need to hear it most.