Are Photo Meetups The Key To Master Photography with Richard Brodowski

Mar 18, 2025

Richard Brodowski is an innovative equestrian and portrait photographer who transitioned from capturing his daughter’s riding lessons to specializing in horse-and-rider portraits. He discusses the journey of developing his skills through experimentation and his experiences with local photo meetups. Richard shares insights on the technical aspects of equestrian photography, poses safely around horses, and the value of community support in learning. He emphasizes the importance of creativity and safety in equestrian shoots while planning upcoming black-and-white studio projects.

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ANECDOTE

From Barbecue Videos To Barn Portraits

Richard bought a Sony a7C intending to film barbecue videos but pivoted to photographing his daughter's riding lessons in April 2021.
That casual start led to him being asked to shoot 35 fall portraits over two days and kickstarted his equestrian work.

ADVICE

Choose Focal Length For Horse Proportions

Use the 135mm lens for flattering equestrian portraits because wider focal lengths distort horse proportions.
Buy lenses that suit your subject's shape rather than relying solely on kit zooms.

ANECDOTE

Learning Fast With 35 Portraits In Two Days

Richard's very first portrait marathon was 35 sessions in two days, with many technical mistakes but good results because it was overcast.
The intensity forced fast learning about exposure and client expectations.

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#546 Richard Brodowski is member of the Beginner Photography Podcast Community and innovative equestrian and portrait photographer who shares how he transitioned from taking photos at his daughter's barn to mastering equestrian portraits. He began his photography path in April 2021, initially purchasing a camera for filming barbecue videos for a YouTube channel. However, his interests shifted towards equestrian photography as he began capturing images during his daughter's horseback riding lessons. Richard shares his learning experience, from being voluntold to take portraits at a barn to experimenting with equipment and techniques.

KEY TOPICS COVERED

Getting Started in Photography - Richard recounts his initial motivation for purchasing a camera, which evolved from a focus on video to a passion for equestrian photography during his daughter's lessons. Key takeaways include the importance of experimentation and being open to new opportunities.
Learning Equestrian Photography - Richard discusses the nuances of equestrian photography, covering technical aspects like focal lengths and equipment, as well as learning to pose subjects around horses safely. He highlights his journey of gaining confidence and skills through research and practice.
Community and Continuous Learning - Richard emphasizes the role of community in developing his skills. Participation in local photo meetups allowed him to interact with other photographers and models, fostering a supportive environment that facilitated learning and experimentation.

IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS

Community in Photography: Involvement in groups that enhance learning, skill-sharing, and collaboration among photographers.

DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS

How can community involvement enhance your learning in photography?
What are the challenges and rewards of transitioning from hobby photography to professional portrait sessions?

RESOURCES:
Visit Richard Brodowski's Website - https://www.barn33photography.com/
Follow Richard Brodowski on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/barn33photography/
Check out "Set a Light 3D" (for lighting setups) - https://www.elixxier.com/en/set-a-light-3d/

Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets at
http://freephotographypresets.com/

Connect with Raymond!

Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle
Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!