Rebecca Metzler

How I got to the 4 x 4

I was on the brink of giving up. I remember thinking to myself “Oh, this is just a hobby”. And then I listened to a podcast episode about Rachel and long-form family sessions. I stopped mid dishes and followed her account. I thought, “oh shit you can do that? You can build a business your own way that makes you excited to pick up a camera? A business devoid of cheesy, greasy salesman tactics. I booked a 4x4 spot 5 minutes til midnight. 

Rachel was immediately inviting. We did group calls with the other photographers before our in person workshop. During our individual monthly calls we talked out ideas, fanned flames. I was so hungry to hear Rachel’s thoughts- because I finally felt like the bigness ruminating inside was going to happen. Rachel pulled out my voice and helped me articulate what I felt inside. And all the confusion about my style melted away. Rachel believed in me and I started to believe in myself. 

The in-person workshop was the highlight. We shot during the day, going over different tactics and drank wine at night spilling philosophy behind the work. We got to have a looking glass into Rachel’s life and it motivated me- professionally and personally. To build a business and a life that I believed in, that lit me up. 

Before the 4x4 I only second shot weddings or harassed families I knew to be my subjects. And now I am busy replying to emails and filling my calendar. If I didn’t do the 4x4, I wouldn't be here. It is one of those things you sign up for and afterwards cannot fathom that you almost didn't sign up. I am not sure what direction I would have gone if I didn't listen to that podcast scrubbing plates back in August. 

Rachel exudes cool yet listens and remembers every little detail that you spill out. She is a mother, an artist, and an absolute badass. There is intentionality behind even the smallest text or comment I get from her. Rachel’s advice is always tailored to your personality. You want action steps? She types out actions. You want to talk out an idea for clarity? She listens. 

And that is rare- I genuinely have no idea how she can give the amount of energy she does to others. And if you join the 4x4 - you will feel it. And you won't come out of it the same.