My wife and I have the same Apple account. Can we stop getting photos on both phones and stop getting text messages sent to one phone and it shows on the other? Blocked numbers on one phone effects the other???

To do what you want to do, one of you needs to get a different Apple ID. Apple IDs aren't meant to be shared.

Apple ID - create a new.      

Family Sharing.         

Family Sharing - Set up.        

When changing to the new ID, there may be some data loss, but you can minimize it. If syncing photos with iCloud, ensure Optimization is turned off in Settings/Your Name/iCloud/Photos and/or in Photos/Preferences/iCloud. Then make sure full resolution photos are on the device/computer. When signing out of iCloud, if asked whether you want to retain data, choose yes. Messages conversations will be lost if they are addressed to the ID. See the article below for other places that the old ID should be removed. See Winston Churchill's response in the below discussion. Also set up Family Sharing between the IDs to keep access to your apps/purchases. 

How to switch Apple IDs on your iPhone or iPad.      

How to transfer all files from one iCloud account to another.        

What to do after you change your Apple ID or password - Apple Support.     

You are welcome.