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Tampa: my next chapter

WHY I CHOSE TAMPA BAY FOR MY NEXT CHAPTER

The Call of the Gulf Coast

There’s a moment in every creative’s life when you realize it’s time to move. For me, that moment came not with a whisper, but with a roar—the sound of waves crashing against Florida’s Gulf Coast, the golden light of a Tampa sunset, and the undeniable energy of a city that’s still writing its own story.

My name is Oliver Lozano. I’m a photographer with German and Mexican roots, and for the past decade, I’ve built my career capturing luxury portraits and premium brand imagery across Europe. But in early 2025, I made a decision that surprised some of my clients and friends: I was moving to Tampa, Florida.

Today, I want to share why Tampa Bay wasn’t just a random choice—it was a calling.


The Light That Changed Everything

As a photographer, light is everything. It’s the difference between a good image and a masterpiece. During my first visit to Tampa in late 2024, I stood on Bayshore Boulevard at 6:30 PM in November. The sun was setting over the water, casting a warm, golden glow that I had never experienced in Berlin or Munich.

This isn’t just poetic language—this is real. Tampa’s latitude gives us longer golden hours, softer shadows, and a quality of natural light that transforms every portrait. For my clients, this means more flexibility in scheduling and more stunning results.

Why this matters for you: When you book a session with me in Tampa, you’re not just getting a photographer—you’re getting the advantage of one of the best natural lighting conditions in the United States.


A City on the Rise

Tampa isn’t just beautiful; it’s booming. According to recent data, Tampa Bay is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in Florida, with a thriving business community, a growing arts scene, and an influx of entrepreneurs, creatives, and visionaries.

But here’s what really drew me in: the people.

In my conversations with local business owners, artists, and community leaders, I found a spirit of collaboration rather than competition. Tampa’s creative community is welcoming, supportive, and hungry for authenticity. That’s exactly the kind of environment where my work can thrive—and where my clients can flourish.


Bringing European Precision to Florida Soul

Some might ask: “Why would a European photographer move to Florida? Won’t you lose your edge?”

My answer: I’m not losing anything. I’m adding.

My German background taught me discipline, technical precision, and an unwavering commitment to quality. My Mexican heritage gave me warmth, passion, and an eye for vibrant storytelling. Now, Tampa’s laid-back yet ambitious energy is teaching me something new: how to balance excellence with ease.

This fusion is what makes my approach unique. I don’t rush my sessions. I create a safe, supportive space where you can be vulnerable, authentic, and confident. Clients often tell me their experience felt “healing”—not just a photoshoot, but a moment of self-discovery.


What You Can Expect

If you’re reading this and considering working with me, here’s what I promise:

  1. Authenticity Over Perfection: I don’t chase trends. I chase truth. Your images will reflect who you are, not who you think you should be.
  1. Local Expertise: I know Tampa’s best locations—from the historic brick streets of Ybor City to the modern skyline of downtown. I’ll help you choose the perfect backdrop for your story.
  1. European Standards, American Warmth: You get the technical excellence you expect from a luxury photographer, combined with the friendly, relaxed vibe that Tampa is known for.
  1. A Long-Term Partner: I’m not here for a quick transaction. I want to be part of your journey as you grow your brand, your confidence, and your legacy in Tampa Bay.

My First 90 Days in Tampa

Arriving in April 2025, I will be busy:

  • Exploring: From Lettuce Lake Park to the Tampa Theatre, I will be documenting the city’s beauty.
  • Connecting: I’ll join local photography groups, attend art openings at FMoPA, and start building relationships with Tampa’s creative community.
  • Creating: I will create my first Tampa sessions, and the results will exceeded my expectations.

This is just the beginning. Over the next year, I plan to host workshops, collaborate with local businesses, and contribute to Tampa’s growing arts scene.


Let’s Create Together

If you’re a Tampa entrepreneur, creative professional, or anyone who wants to see themselves through a new lens, I’d love to hear from you.

Whether you need executive headshots that command respect, boudoir portraits that celebrate your confidence, or family portraits that become heirlooms—I’m here to help you tell your story.

Ready to begin? Book Your Tampa Session


About Oliver Lozano

Oliver Lozano is a luxury portrait and premium brand photographer based in Tampa, Florida. With German and Mexican heritage, he brings a unique global perspective to every session. His work has been featured in publications across Europe, and he specializes in empowering clients to see themselves with new confidence. When he’s not behind the camera, you can find him exploring Tampa’s trails, attending local art events, or enjoying a sunset on Bayshore Boulevard.


#TampaPhotographer #LuxuryPortraits #PersonalBranding #TampaBay #BoudoirPhotography #BrandPhotography #OliverLozano

Happiness made easier with Nanni Glück

Tips on how to lead a happy life – even in difficult times.

Nanni Glück doesn’t just bear the name, she lives it.
Above all, she is a happiness coach, and in our conversation, we talk about the possibilities of finding and experiencing moments of happiness even in difficult times.
With practical exercises, tips, and tricks. Enjoy!

Nanni Glück – her name says it all! The psychologist and conversational therapist not only works 1:1 with individuals but also serves as a trainer in health management and as a keynote speaker for companies and institutions.
Nanni’s light and positive demeanor are inspiring!
She aims to bring more contentment and ease to people through positive psychology, mindfulness, and a healthy dose of humor.

Her mission for happiness has already led to several TV appearances and press publications. Born January 15, 1973, in Stuttgart. Studied Psychology, Japanese Studies, Economics (LMU Munich). Studied Positive Psychology (ETH Zurich). Speaks Swabian, High German, English, and Italian; Japanese is quite rusty. Conversational & Hypnotherapist in her private practice. Trainer in corporate and non-corporate health management. Homebase Stuttgart with partner and dog. Popping bubble wrap brings her joy.

JUST CLICK ON THE IMAGE.

Stranger Things star voice: Carlotta Josephine Pahl

What it’s like to have a famous voice

Carlotta Josefine Pahl is still not as well known to many as her voice.

Because she is the regular German voice of none other than the legendary Hollywood actress Millie Bobby Brown, best known for the hit series “Stranger Things” and films such as Godzilla II or Enola Holmes I & II.

In our conversation, we talk about how she got into it, what it’s like to interact with fans, and what it’s like to have such a famous voice. We also talk about her own projects and what will come next for her now that the series has ended. Look forward to this light-hearted conversation and a behind-the-scenes look at a hit series.

Carlotta Pahl is a voice actress, actress, musician, and model, and lives between Hamburg and Berlin. She took on her first voice role at the age of three. For over ten years, she has been the German voice of Millie Bobby Brown and has been able to follow her development very closely over the years.
Together with songwriter and producer Paul Gleitsmann, she forms the Hamburg-based duo Magnetysm, which blends genres, emotions, and stylistic worlds, drawing listeners into a space of feelings, stories, and sound.
Carlotta also regularly appears as a celebrity guest at pop culture events and contributes to podcasts.

JUST CLICK ON THE IMAGE.

Podcast: Unscripted Life Lessons

Real People—Real Talk

I warmly invite you to “Unscripted Life Lessons.” In this podcast, I take you on a journey that is completely unfiltered. Neither I nor my guests know what comes next. These are uncut conversations of varying lengths that reveal small and large life lessons.
Whether I’m speaking with models, actors, psychologists, therapists, entrepreneurs, people working in adult industries, believers, creatives, artists, or international guests—each time you’re virtually sitting at the table with us, as if we were having a completely spontaneous conversation.

Each conversation is like a window opening onto courageous decisions, unexpected turns, and profound insights. These uncut, vibrant dialogues let you feel that each of us has our own lesson to learn in life. Join me and my guests on this exciting journey, where each episode takes you a step further.
That’s exactly what makes it so compelling: these are small and large life lessons told here in their most authentic form. You’re sitting at the imaginary table, feeling every emotion, every uncertainty, and you’re there live when real people share their stories.

You can listen to this podcast anywhere—whether on the go, at work, or simply to relax. With humor, genuine laughter, and deep encounters, I bring real stories to you. Follow me, activate notifications, and share these lessons with everyone who needs them. Because this is about real encounters, real inspiration, and real stories.

Follow now, activate notifications, and share this podcast with everyone seeking authentic, vibrant life lessons:

AI Ensures Goodbye

Why AI-Generated Images Drive Your Clients Away

Or: Why “Perfect” Doesn’t Work – and “Authentic” Is the New Superpower

Imagine: a portrait, technically flawless. Symmetrical, softened, smooth as a magazine cover. AI-generated.
And yet: nothing about it sticks. No spark, no connection, no feeling.

Welcome to the era of synthetic visibility. Everything is optimized – and everything becomes meaningless as a result.

What used to make an impression now meets with skepticism. Clients don’t want an avatar. They want a human being. You.


The World Is Becoming More Artificial – and That’s Exactly Your Opportunity

Our world is flooded with images. Thousands of faces rush past us every day. Most of them are generated, retouched, filtered beyond recognition. Beautiful – but soulless.

And in the midst of this stream: the desire for authenticity.
People long for truthfulness. For trust. For security. For connection.
They want to see someone who dares to be visible. Who doesn’t have to be perfect – but real.

But: being real is no small matter. It means showing yourself. And that’s sometimes damn uncomfortable.


The Real Reason Why Many Don’t Have Genuine Photos of Themselves

It’s not because you’re “not photogenic.”
Or “don’t look like you do on Instagram.”

It’s because we’ve never learned to show our true personality. Especially not in front of the camera.
Because we’re afraid of doing something wrong.
Looking foolish.
Embarrassing ourselves.
Appearing weak.

And that’s exactly why a shoot requires more than just light and technique.
It requires a human being. Someone who understands what that feels like.
Who knows your insecurity – and still sees you.
A photographer who doesn’t want to mold you – but gives you the space to grow beyond yourself.


Photography Isn’t an Obligation. It’s a Journey to Yourself.

A genuine portrait shoot – when done right – isn’t a stiff obligation.
It’s an encounter.
A game.
A moment when you get to experience yourself as you may never have been before.

And yes – it’s allowed to be fun.
Really fun, even.

You laugh, you shine, you blossom – not despite your insecurity, but because of it.

What remains is an image. But what you truly take away is a feeling:
“This is me. And I’m allowed to show it.”


Why AI Can Never Do This

AI-generated images create no connection.
They show no one you’d want to know.
They tell no story – especially not yours.

A real person can touch, move, inspire.
An AI face? At best seems “quite pretty.” And then gets swiped away.

If you want people to remember you – show yourself.
Not as a perfect shell, but as a personality.
With presence. With warmth. With depth.


This Is Me, Oliver Lozano

I don’t photograph people for their brand.
I photograph them for their truth.
I see what’s there – and bring it in front of the camera. With respect, with humor, with feeling.

And yes – sometimes with a tear in my eye.
Because real images touch.

And You Know What Happens Then?
My clients come back. Not because they need new photos.
But because they want to feel that connection again.
That moment when they recognize themselves – and perhaps for the first time truly find themselves beautiful.


In an artificial world, your authenticity becomes a lighthouse.
And I’m here to turn on the light.

Time for the outdoors, time for travel

Finally shooting outdoors again!

Dear friends of photography, beautiful things, and self-love,

The time has come again; we can go outside and celebrate life and nature.

All colors are vibrant, life has a new pulse, and it is time for outdoor shots and travel shoots!

“I did it—and I am still on cloud nine. My outdoor shoot with Oliver was not just a photo session. It was an adventure. A work of art. A day that made me feel the way I have always wanted to feel: free, beautiful, strong, completely myself.

From the very first conversation, I felt it: this is not just about images. It is about the experience. About style. About the extraordinary. And about me—in my best version.

The sun was shining, and I was beaming back. It was that one day when suddenly everything clicked: the mood, the light, my look, my posture. And Oliver and his team were there—dedicated, warm-hearted, with a gaze that sees more than the obvious. It was like a movie, and I was the star. Welcome to your very own Hollywood story.


Who has a location that finally wants to be showcased—in grand style?

I had this one place. Hidden. Magical. I always knew that something special should be created there. And Oliver? He transformed it into an editorial. Not a boring “let’s take a few pictures”—but a production with depth, feeling, style, and a visual language usually only seen in glossy magazines.

With him, everything feels effortless, yet there is so much behind it: every image, every angle, every outfit—everything is carefully considered in advance. Location scouting, lighting conditions, colors, contrasts, mood. Together with his team—hair & makeup artists, and upon request, a stylist who arrives with extravagant, perfectly coordinated looks—your location becomes the backdrop of your life.

Do you want a dress that looks like it came straight out of a 1952 film? Or an outfit reminiscent of a modern diva or a gentleman? No problem—we rent, we buy, we have things custom-made. Your moment deserves the big stage.


Who wants to travel—and feel like a superstar in the process?

I took the leap. I flew off—to Florida. Ancient national parks, secluded creeks, the light filtering through the palms, the soft sound of the water. A vintage Hollywood feeling was in the air, and Oliver captured exactly that. I wore silk and gold, walked barefoot through the thicket, with hair like a film diva, yet completely effortless.

This is how it feels when you don’t just “look beautiful,” but are admired—by yourself.

Oliver turns every location into a film set and you into the star. And no, you are not standing alone in front of the camera: a well-coordinated team takes care of your look, your confidence, and your glow. Everything is thought out, but nothing feels stiff—it is about your natural charisma, your radiance. And suddenly… there it is.


Who has a special vehicle—and wants to create memories with it?

My road trip with Oliver was wild, elegant, and full of fun. I drove my vintage car along the coastal road, music in the background, my dress fluttering, my gaze fixed on the horizon—and Oliver laughed: “That’s you!”

That really was me. The freedom, the strength, the sensuality that sometimes gets lost in everyday life—it came back.

Oliver loves to stage such moments, but without artificiality. Every image tells a story. Yours. This results in series that look like they are from an editorial—but they don’t show models. They show you. Authentic, emotional, iconic.

The journey? It is carefully planned. The routes. The stops. The styling. And you can simply let yourself go.


Who wants to surrender to nature—and present themselves erotically and stylishly?

I knew I wanted something for myself. Something sensual, but not crude. Something real, but with style. And then came Olli. And with him: this atmosphere.

He has a talent for opening up spaces—in nature and within you. Suddenly, it was easy to show myself. As I am. As I sometimes only see myself in secret. Beautiful. Desirable. Natural.

The forests became my boudoir. The rocks, my runway. The setting sun, my light. With sensitivity and respect, Oliver guided, accompanied, and motivated me. It was a sensual experience—but also an inner journey.

In the end, I looked at the pictures and thought: That is really me. And I love what I see.


What remains?

More than images.
More than a beautiful day.

What remains is the feeling of having experienced something special—real, in the here and now, without filters, without drama. A new self-image remains. A reconciliation with oneself. A falling in love with one’s own essence.

This kind of photography is more than a product. It is a gift to yourself. A reminder that you are beautiful. That you are allowed to live. Loudly, sensually, creatively, freely.

And the best part? It is just so much fun.


Now is the perfect time for you.
Call me. Get a consultation. Feel the anticipation.
And secure one of the few spots before August—for an experience that will transform you.

📞 Call. Write. Ask.
Your shoot is already waiting for you.

Visibility in five steps

Visibility with substance: The 5 most important steps to your unmistakable presence

 

Your visibility is not a luxury—it is essential. It determines whether the right people notice you, trust you, and want to work with you. But true visibility means more than simply being findable online. It requires a clear message, personality, and courage.

Imagine this: You are scrolling through social media and a picture makes you stop. Not because it is perfect, but because it stirs emotions. Because it tells a story. Because you feel like you know the person in it. That is exactly how your visibility should work.

Here are the five most important steps to help you stand out from the crowd and finally get the attention you deserve:

1. Show your uniqueness

💡 Tip: Write down your personal story in three sentences: What led you to do what you do today? What is your greatest passion? What sets you apart from others? Use these sentences in your communication—on your website, on social media, or in interviews.

🎯 Your benefit: You will attract people who identify with your story and are looking for someone exactly like you.

Visibility begins with your individual story. People do not just buy products—they buy from people who move them. What drives you? Why do you do what you do? Share your thoughts, your values, your experiences. Show yourself as you truly are, and the right people will feel drawn to you.

“You will love yourself in our images and therefore want to use them.”—That is my approach as a photographer. I want to capture your true essence, not just a perfect smile, and above all show you how amazing you can look.

2. Present yourself with powerful images

💡 Tip: Choose outfits for your shoot that you feel comfortable in and that reflect your personality. Try different poses in front of the mirror and find out which ones best highlight your presence. During the shoot itself, my team and I will make sure everything runs smoothly and that you perform, feel, and look fantastic.

🎯 Your benefit: Your images will not only look professional, but also authentic—so you will be remembered long-term and attract the right people.

A professional shoot is not a gimmick—it is a statement. Your image determines whether potential clients perceive you as trustworthy and competent. High-quality, authentic portraits show not only your appearance, but also your energy, your charisma, your uniqueness.

Think of a successful businesswoman who hid behind a logo for years. Only when she finally showed herself—with a strong, authentic image—did the right clients come all on their own. Let that be your story too!

3. Have the courage to be different

💡 Tip: Think of three qualities that make you special and show them deliberately in your communication. Whether through your choice of words, your style, or your visual language—dare to be real. In our Creative Session, we will work this out together and then show it to the world in the photo session.

🎯 Your benefit: You will no longer be overlooked, but perceived as a genuine personality who stands for something. That is priceless in today’s world.

There is plenty of standard and average—what captivates us are people with edges, with their own opinion, with conviction. Think of someone like Iris Apfel—she never tried to fit in, but created an icon with her unique style and unmistakable personality. Her individuality made her not only visible, but unforgettable. You can do exactly the same—by daring to show your true personality. Do you feel “too loud,” “too noticeable,” or “too special”? Perfect! That is exactly what makes you unique. Perfection is not the goal—authenticity is. Only those who dare to truly show themselves are remembered. I will help you with that.

4. Stay visible—again and again

💡 Tip: Create a simple content plan: Each week, share an insight into your business, a client success story, or your thoughts on a relevant topic. Repeat key messages so they stick. For these key messages, we will shoot specific images so the combination of image and word can have even more impact.

🎯 Your benefit: You will stay consistently top of mind for your potential clients and become a trustworthy brand with a clear, compelling message.

Visibility is not a one-time event, but a process. Your business grows, you continue to develop—and your presence should reflect that. Regular, authentic content on your website and social media ensures you do not just flare up briefly, but remain in people’s minds long-term. Remember:

“It is not enough to be great—the world has to see it too.”—G.B. Shaw

5. Seize the opportunity—now!

💡 Tip: Set a clear deadline for your next shoot or your next big visibility step. Contact a photographer, book an appointment, or plan a special post for your community.

🎯 Your benefit: You take action instead of hesitating—and you will see the results you want sooner.

Waiting is not a strategy. The perfect moment is now. Start imperfectly, but start. The right people can only find you if you show yourself. Imagine scrolling through your old posts in a year and regretting that you did not start back then. Do not let that happen. Now is your time!

Let us make sure together that you are not only seen, but also remembered. Imagine how it feels to show up with images that reveal your true essence—confident, powerful, unforgettable. Book your shoot now and let us tell your story in images! Book your shoot now and take your business to the next level!

📸 Secure your appointment now and become visible!

Expropriation? No Thanks!

Exclusive Invitation to an Evening Event: Asset Protection & Securing Reserves (with fine wine)

Dear friends of photography, beautiful things, and wise decisions,

I cordially invite you to a special evening in the stylish ambiance of Loft Studio Stuttgart. In an inspiring circle, we will discuss a topic that is essential for anyone planning ahead:

💰 Reserves & Asset Protection – Strategies for Economic Stability 💰

My guest this evening is Nikolai Schwinghammer, a bank business economist and recognized expert with over 30 years of experience in asset management. He will provide valuable insights into the following topics:

🔹 Legal changes and their potential impact on your assets
🔹 Asset and Investment Principles: The crucial big points
🔹 Protection against expropriation, inflation, and taxes – LEGAL & effective
🔹 Security in uncertain times: How to keep your assets stable

🔥 Why this topic is important:
✔ Value retention and asset protection in times of economic change
✔ Strategies to avoid loss of purchasing power
✔ Independence from political and economic uncertainties

Afterward, we will have open networking, a Q session, and a surprise.

We are also delighted that Weingut St. Annagarten will be providing beverages.
You are invited to the first welcome drink on us; additional alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages can then be purchased.
And if you particularly enjoy it, you can stock up on supplies right away.

https://www.sankt-annagarten.de/

An evening for forward-thinking individuals – a valuable investment in knowledge and the future.

📍 Location: Loft Studio Stuttgart Tübinger Straße 3, 70178 Stuttgart
📅 Date Time: February 26th 19:00
🎟 Limited spaces – Participation only with registration via email to: hallo@oliverlozano.com

Exclusive Offer for Guests:

As a special highlight, all participants will have the opportunity to book an individual portrait shooting at a preferential price. Present yourself with imagery that radiates trust and success – whether for your brand, your business, or your personal appearance.

I look forward to an inspiring evening with you!

Oliver Lozano

Please register bindingly via email to hallo@oliverlozano.com

 

About my guest Nikolai Schwinghammer

Bank Business Economist
Over 30 years of consulting experience:
10 years as Head of Asset Management at a private bank with a portfolio volume of over 500 million Euros
Independent consultant since summer 2007
Co-founder of INRVS

www.inrvs.de

American Casualness in 5 Lessons

Five Lessons from Florida: What I Learned from Entrepreneurs After Hurricanes Helene and Milton

Nature has its own way of teaching us. Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which I experienced in Florida, were not only physically challenging but also inspiring in terms of human resilience and crisis management.

Fortunately, I was 240 km away near Jacksonville, but even there it rained for three days straight.
The beautiful lake in the evening was murky afterwards and had risen significantly. (See photos above)

When I returned to Tampa, I hardly recognized parts of the city. At night, everything was pitch black, without electricity, without streetlights, with few cars on the road; the streets were naturally blocked and closed off with branches and other debris. All sorts of objects became projectiles in the storm and were scattered around afterwards. Cranes ended up in houses because they couldn’t be dismantled quickly enough. Branches, twigs, soil, dirt, and boards were everywhere on the streets and, within the next few days, along the roadsides (see photos below).

Some houses were buried under trees, many were flooded. I actually intended to have meetings, but what I found was much better.
After this shock, I had the good fortune to speak with numerous entrepreneurs and business owners whose attitude deeply impressed me.

It was partly life-threatening to stay in Tampa, and even afterwards, many roads were closed, underpasses were flooded, and one was strictly advised not to step into the water due to potential power cables or bacteria. Such events are rarely, if ever, known in Germany.
Here are five important lessons I drew from these conversations that have sustainably shaped my portrait and mentoring business as well as my life.

1. Flexibility is the Key to Success

The entrepreneurs told me how important it is to adapt quickly to new circumstances. During and after the storms, they had to rethink their business models, find new ways, and focus on the essentials. Many helped in the community for little to no money, clearing debris and trees, delivering food, water, supplies, medicine, and electrical equipment. There was no electricity for days, which meant no refrigerator, stove, air conditioning, or even charging a cell phone. Fortunately, most had water for showering—even if it was cold, it was over 30 degrees Celsius.

Application: In my business, this means being open to innovation, whether through the introduction of new software, technology, or flexible mentoring approaches. Instead of clinging to old concepts, I ask myself: What do my clients need right now? And what did I and my business need now?

2. Community Strengthens Us

Another insight was the power of community. Many entrepreneurs highlighted how crucial it is to have a strong network to rely on. Challenges are better overcome together. The BNI chapters I visited were particularly exemplary here. For example, one photographer had to vacate her studio within 24 hours because the large complex was at risk of collapse. There were no U-Haul trucks available so quickly because everyone in Tampa needed them, so she borrowed one from painters whose jobs had been postponed anyway because everyone was busy clearing branches and trees.

Application: I actively build relationships with other creatives and entrepreneurs. Through collaborations, joint projects, and mutual support, I strengthen my business and create an inspiring environment for growth.

3. Focus on the Positive

The entrepreneurs impressed me with their ability to see an opportunity in every crisis, even when it was painful. They told me stories about how they used difficulties as a springboard for new ideas, strengthened old friendships, and simply had to accept the situation to move forward. Many also took private action and lent out chainsaws or other equipment to help in the community, thus creating positive impact from a place of abundance. Helping is the most positive thing of all.

Application: I adopt this attitude by focusing on solutions even in difficult times. For example, an unexpected project cancellation could create space for a creative realignment.

4. Self-Care is Not a Weakness

Many entrepreneurs emphasized how important it is to look after one’s own mental and physical health to be successful in the long term. Especially in stressful times, self-care can decide between success and failure. Many people came together once they were safe, sharing food or making fires and grilling together. People looked out for each other to ensure everyone had enough, from hygiene products to baby formula or carpools. The costs for Airbnb and rental cars naturally exploded as many needed a roof over their heads at short notice if they had nowhere else to stay or if their cars were destroyed or submerged and thus defective. And after the first day, when many had to look after themselves, they immediately started taking care of everyone else. And in the evening, people sat in Ybor City with a nice cigar and treated themselves.

Application: I make sure to consciously take breaks in my life and cultivate sources of energy such as walks, meditation, or time with my dog. Or a nice cigar. This helps me remain present and inspired in my work because I also reward myself.

5. Long-Term Thinking Outperforms Short-Term Profit

A recurring theme in the conversations was the importance of sustainability and patience. Entrepreneurs who think long-term build not just businesses, but also trust and consistency. They considered how to prepare even better for the next time; implementation plans for storm preparations were made within the BNI chapters, as well as a plan for during and after the storm. All with the right contacts in case help is needed.

Application: In my mentoring approach, I focus on offering my clients not just quick wins, but equipping them with strategies that have a lasting effect. The same applies to my photography and storytelling business: my goal is to create lasting value that goes beyond the moment. And if I am not the right person for a task or if I cannot go any further at a certain point, I have a large network that I can recommend and that is available for long-term success.

American Casualness: Impressive and Inspiring

One of the most striking qualities I admired in the American entrepreneurs was their casualness paired with a pragmatic, hands-on mentality. Instead of complaining for long or getting lost in problems, they focused on solutions and acted decisively. This attitude was particularly palpable in the community after the storms: whether it was about rebuilding destroyed businesses, helping neighbors, or developing new ideas—the mixture of confidence and drive was infectious.

Application: This attitude inspires me to face challenges with more ease and optimism. This is often more difficult in Germany than elsewhere. At least that is how I perceive it. Instead of letting problems paralyze me, I try to clearly define the next step and tackle it directly. In my business, this manifests in faster decision-making and a focus on what is feasible, without using perfectionism as an excuse. Doing instead of waiting.

Conclusion

The encounters with these inspiring people have shown me that there is a valuable lesson in every challenge. I saw these five principles, which enrich my professional and private life, more vividly in Tampa in a very short time than ever before. They remind me that we cannot always control the circumstances, but we can control how we react to them. And that is exactly where true strength lies.

A “hello” opened many doors

Thank you for over 20 years of inspiring collaboration with Oliver Lozano

In a world where images often speak louder than words, I have been fortunate to work with a unique artist for two decades—Oliver Lozano. More than a photographer, more than a director. Oliver is the one through whose lens the soul of every project is revealed.

But from the beginning: It was in the early 2000s when Oliver stumbled into my newly founded advertising agency office. In his role as an intern for my landlord, he wanted to say “hello.” That “hello” not only led to a long-standing collaboration, but also to a friendship.

Oliver describes himself aptly: “Because it is one of my main goals to break down stereotypes and prejudices and to give people—whether private individuals, entrepreneurs, artists, celebrities, or models—exactly the self-worth and confidence they deserve. A shoot should become an experience and enable everyone to feel special.” It was precisely this philosophy that made our collaboration not only professional, but also personally so meaningful.

With his Mexican roots and Swabian diligence, Oliver has developed a unique style that defines each of his works. Whether in his extraordinary “Loft Studio” in Stuttgart city center or on location shoots, Oliver knows how to showcase people. It is this empathy that makes him not only an outstanding artist, but an indispensable partner.

Business shoots, portraits & clips

And it is hard to believe how quickly time flies. You turn around three times and 20 years have already passed! During that time, we have brought a wide range of projects to life together: from professional business shoots for me and my clients to online clips and social media posts.

For a series of advertising trailers, we once worked on the voice-over with the voice of Magnum, Norbert Langer—which gave both of us goosebumps. Another time, we were on the road for clients in Paris, Vienna, London, or Las Vegas. And I will never forget how, in the 2010s, we explained to our clients what social media and storytelling actually are.

It is simply fun working with the guy—and again and again, all over the world.

Author shoot for Sucy Pretsch’s new book

By now, I am an author and am looking forward with anticipation to the upcoming book premiere of my debut novel “The Last Show”* which will take place at the end of September 2024 at Buch Berlin. This horror zombie story takes the reader into a dark, dystopian future in which a deadly plague ravages the world and Switzerland becomes the sealed-off epicenter of terror.

“The Last Show”* is a gripping horror novel that combines captivating suspense, emotional depth, and profound questions about humanity and society.

Ahead of this book premiere, I had the pleasure of doing an impressive author shoot with Oliver Lozano. In the “Loft Studio,” Oliver framed not only my novel, but also my author persona in the perfect visual setting—complete with fake blood and a creepy factor.

Together with Oliver, who is also creating the visuals and trailers for the book presentation, we hope to inspire the literary trade audience as well and leave a lasting impression.

Thank you again, Oliver, for your unparalleled collaboration and support on every single project—both in photography and in the literary world. Here’s to many more shared successes!

 

https://sucypretsch.de/category/zombie-roman-sucy-pretsch-autorin/

Here is an excerpt from the last 20 years and the very latest!