Not because it’s complicated—
but because it doesn’t follow the rules of reality at all.
Instead, it invites you into a world where light, depth, and imagination come together to create something that feels… strangely familiar.
And that’s exactly where my conversation with toy photographer Shelly Corbett begins.
Shelly has spent over a decade exploring a niche that many photographers overlook— a Lensbaby Ambassador using toys to create rich, emotional, and story-driven images. What might seem playful on the surface quickly reveals itself as something much deeper: a way to reconnect with creativity, curiosity, and even parts of ourselves we often leave behind.
In this conversation, we go far beyond the idea of “toy photography” as just a fun experiment. Shelly shares how working with small subjects can actually sharpen your skills as a photographer—whether it’s understanding light, composition, or the subtle ways you can guide a viewer’s attention.
We also dive into the importance of storytelling, how to develop ideas, and why the toys you choose often say more about you than you might expect. Along the way, Shelly opens up about how photography can be a space to process emotions—both light and heavy—and how play can become a powerful creative tool.
Of course, we also get practical. From working with natural light to using tools like Lensbaby lenses, shares insights into her workflow, her gear, lights, smoke machines and how she builds those small, magical worlds that feel so alive.
And like every good conversation on the Show, there are plenty of moments of humor and curiosity along the way—because sometimes the most meaningful ideas come from simply allowing yourself to play again!
So grab a coffee, take a moment, and enjoy a conversation about creativity, storytelling, and rediscovering the joy of photography through the smallest of subjects 📷 ☕
⏱ Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:30 Meeting Shelly Corbett
04:00 From Traditional to Toy Photography
08:30 Discovering the Toy Photography Community
13:00 Why Toy Photography Works
17:00 Creating Magical Worlds with Light
22:00 Gear & Lensbaby Lenses
28:00 Working with Light & Scale
34:00 Choosing the Right Toys
40:00 Storytelling & Creativity
46:00 Emotions in Toy Photography
52:00 Staying Creative Over Time
57:00 Workshops & Teaching
01:03:00 Final Thoughts & Reflections
🔗 Shelly Corbett
Website: https://shellycorbett.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shellycorbettphotography/
Toy Photographers Blog: https://toyphotographers.com/
Lensbaby: https://lensbaby.com/
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https://thecameracafeshow.com/
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