Hey! We are Marianne Bley and Robin Manno - bringing you a combined 50 years of professional photography experience. We have mastered every corner of the craft—from commercial and private studio work to lifestyle and branding photography. Each with 25 years in the industry, we blend creative vision, technical mastery, and decades of insight with a shared passion for teaching and empowering other photographers.
Together, we are on a mission to share our knowledge with photographers worldwide—helping you refine your skills, elevate your artistry, and build a thriving photography business.
Why we started coaching photographers
meet your educators
- melissa r.
I jumped at the opportunity to work with Marianne. During our coaching calls we were able to go through my galleries to see where I could make improvements on things such as lighting, cropping, posing & editing. Before I knew it my images were improving, my editing time cut down and my sales increased. Today the compliments I receive from families prove my hard work has paid off and make me proud knowing my families get to hang my work they love in their homes!"
"With the knowledge I gained from each session I was able to head into my next shoot with a new skill to practice.
- kim
It’s helped me push myself to meet untapped potential and improve my workflow. I also love the daily dose of inspiration in the social media groups.
"Working with Robin has helped me look at my galleries in a new light, finding ways to challenge myself and get creative.
- julia
I definitely found some confidence through this coaching and will continue to practice the skills I’ve learned to keep my galleries fresh and exciting. I am looking forward to what is to come with this academy!
"Whether you’re just starting out or have been doing this for years, there is always something you can learn from fellow photographers.
The Academy is not for photographers looking for a quick fix, overnight success, or a one-size-fits-all formula. If you aren’t ready to put in the work, embrace feedback, or invest in long-term growth, this may not be the right fit. We’re here for photographers who want to take intentional steps forward—not shortcuts.
this isn't for you if...
The Academy is for photographers who are ready to go beyond “just taking pictures.” It’s for creatives who want to strengthen their storytelling, design elevated client experiences, and master the business skills that lead to consistency and growth. Whether you’re just starting your journey or have years of experience but crave refinement, this is a space for those committed to learning, applying, and thriving.
this is for you if...
The Refined Lens Academy is an educational hub designed to help photographers elevate both their artistry and their business. Through courses, coaching, and community, we blend creative growth with proven strategies—so you can refine your craft, deliver unforgettable client experiences, and build a photography business that is both profitable and sustainable.
what is the academy
ACADEMY
the refined lens
More than education—the Academy is mentorship, community, and growth.
The Refined Lens Academy
what's included in
one-on-one coaching
As The Academy expands, you’ll see new courses, resources, and tools—but the foundation will always remain the same: personal connection, accountability, and the guidance to help you thrive.
Private sessions tailored to your goals, whether you’re refining your craft, elevating your client experience, or building stronger business systems. You’ll leave with clarity, direction, and action steps designed for your photography journey.
Group coaching
A collaborative space where photographers learn and grow together. We’ll share strategies, troubleshoot challenges, and celebrate wins—so you always feel supported and never stuck doing this alone.
photography, business & beyond
podcast
the refined lens
listen on:
spotify | Apple Podcasts
The Refined Lens Podcast is where real conversations meet real experience. Hosted by two photographers with over 40 years combined in weddings, portraits, sales, and client experience, we pull back the curtain on what it really takes to thrive in this industry. From the highs and lows to the lessons learned along the way, this podcast is designed to inspire, educate, and keep you moving forward—no fluff, just actionable insight.
Hosted by Photographers, For Photographers
- Elevating your client experience from inquiry to delivery
- Proven sales strategies that feel natural, not pushy
- Time management, workflow, and systems that actually stick
- Marketing that attracts your ideal clients
- Creative inspiration for storytelling and artistry
- Real talk on boundaries, burnout, and building a business that lasts
topics you can expect
Whether you’re new to photography or looking to take your studio to the next level, The Refined Lens Podcast will meet you where you are and give you the tools (and motivation) to grow.
New jersey wedding photographer
Robin Manno is a wedding and portrait photographer with 20+ years of experience capturing timeless stories for couples and families. Trained at the School of Visual Arts in NYC, Robin combines her artistic foundation with a warm, approachable style that makes clients feel at ease. Her work has been featured in The Knot and NJ Brides, and her passion lies in creating authentic, effortless images that preserve life’s most meaningful moments.
Robin Manno
meet the photographers
get to know us
New jersey newborn photographer
Marianne Bley is a photographer and sales coach with 25+ years of experience capturing weddings, newborns, and families. She now helps photographers refine their craft and master the business side of photography—teaching proven sales strategies, client experience design, and sustainable systems. Marianne is passionate about empowering photographers to confidently turn their artistry into profitable, full-service businesses.
Marianne bley
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