#545 Gina Milicia is a seasoned celebrity portrait and lifestyle photographer from Australia. With over 25 years of experience in the field, Gina shares insights into her journey from aspiring sculptor to a celebrated photographer. The episode primarily focuses on the unglamorous realities of a photographer's life, the intricacies of photography, and the art of capturing authentic portraits.KEY TOPICS COVEREDGetting Started in Photography - Gina shares how her journey began with a love for art and evolved into photography when she got exposed to a world of fashion and celebrity photography. Despite lacking technical expertise at first, her determination and hard work paved the way for her successful career.The Realities of Professional Photography - Raymond and Gina discuss the perceived glamour of being a professional photographer, while highlighting the actual pressures and challenges, such as the demanding schedules, fleeting shoot opportunities, and the need to establish a quick rapport with subjects.Techniques for Capturing Authentic Portraits - Gina provides tactical advice on how to make subjects comfortable during a shoot. From using storytelling to relax them to utilizing technical skills like shooting tethered and having backup plans, Gina dives into both the art and science of creating timeless images.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSShooting Tethered: The practice of connecting the camera directly to a computer to view images in real-time, aiding in immediate feedback and adjustments.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can photographers balance the technical and creative aspects of photography to enhance their skills?In what ways can understanding a subject's background and personality improve their portraiture?How do the pressures faced by professional photographers compare to other creative professions?RESOURCES: Listen to So You Want to Be a Photographer Podcast Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#544 Angela Shae is a Wedding photographer turned social media expert. She discusses her early interest in photography, the pressure she felt to pursue a more traditional career, and her eventual decision to follow her passion. She candidly reflects on the difficulties she faced due to lacking technical knowledge initially and the pivotal moments that led her to mastery and success in the industry. The conversation delves into her transition from photography to creating "Social Templates," her innovative solution for helping photographers manage social media more efficiently while reflecting on the balance between personal life and professional pursuits.KEY TOPICS COVEREDAngela's Journey into Photography - Angela describes her spontaneous decision to pursue photography over a traditional career in the medical field. She outlines the challenges of initially lacking technical skills and how mentorship and practical experience helped her overcome this.Navigating Parenthood and Professional Life - Angela shares her struggle to balance being a young mother of two while maintaining a thriving photography business, highlighting the pressures and strategies she employed to manage both roles.Social Media Strategy and Reels - The episode culminates in Angela detailing her creation of "Social Templates" to assist photographers in navigating social media trends, particularly focusing on the value of Instagram Reels for reaching a broader audience.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSSocial Templates: A tool created by Angela to streamline the process of creating engaging social media content, particularly Instagram Reels, ensuring photographers can maintain a consistent online presence.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can photographers find a balance between following their passion and meeting practical life obligations?What are the potential pitfalls of turning a passion into a profession, and how can one mitigate them?In what ways can social media tools like Social Templates help streamline photographers' marketing efforts?RESOURCES:Grab a free month of Social Templates with Code BPP - https://beginnerphotopod.com/reelsFollow Angela Shae on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/angelashae_/Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#543 Louis Stevenson is a photographer based in Washington State. Louis shares his journey in photography, which began in his childhood when his father introduced him to shooting with point-and-shoot cameras and later SLR film cameras. His renewed enthusiasm for photography was sparked by capturing the solar eclipse with his phone, which led him to pursue it more seriously. The conversation dives into the transition from shooting as a hobby to taking it professionally, with a unique focus on race photography and youth sports. KEY TOPICS COVEREDDiscovering Photography - Louis recounts his early experiences with photography, highlighting the influence of his father's documentation habits and his own desire to capture moments for personal memory and storytelling.Pursuing Photography as a Passion and Profession - The conversation outlines Louis's transition from hobbyist to enthusiast, notably after the solar eclipse event, pushing him to acquire a better understanding of photographic techniques and equipment.Action Sports Photography Techniques - Louis and Raymond discuss the intricacies involved in photographing dynamic subjects such as motorcycles and youth sports, emphasizing the importance of context, capturing action, and the technical aspects of utilizing shutter speed and autofocus efficiently.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSExposure Triangle: The relationship between ISO, aperture, and shutter speed in achieving the correct exposure.Documenting Action: The importance of providing context and capturing dynamic moments to convey the intensity and story of sports events.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow does your personal interest or hobbies influence your approach to photography?What steps can you take to understand and master the exposure triangle effectively?How can experimenting with camera angles and dutch tilts enhance the storytelling in your photography?RESOURCES:Visit Louis Stevenson's Website - https://stevensonfoto.com/Follow Louis Stevenson on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stevensonfoto/Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#542 Lindsay Coulter is a seasoned photographer with over a decade of experience. The episode explores Lindsay's journey from a university student studying geography to a flourishing photography career. Lindsay shares personal stories, starting with being introduced to photography by her now-husband, Taylor Jackson. The conversation highlights the importance of personal well-being, sustainable business practices, and maintaining a balance between personal and professional life. KEY TOPICS COVEREDTransition to Photography - Lindsay discusses her unexpected journey into photography, which began through a chance encounter with her now-husband. Key takeaways include the importance of seizing unexpected opportunities and the benefits of learning from seasoned professionals.Building a Sustainable Business - Major points include the significance of setting boundaries, managing workload, and revisiting business models regularly for sustainability. Lindsay stresses the need to balance personal life with career demands.Client Experience and Service - Insights include improving client satisfaction by revamping the client experience. Real-world examples include updating delivery timelines and ensuring customer service is at the forefront of business operations.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSAperture Priority: A camera mode that allows photographers to set specific aperture values while the camera selects the shutter speed, aiding beginners in focusing on composition.Sustainable Business Practices: Approaches that ensure long-term business viability while balancing work and personal life, as discussed by Lindsay when setting limits on wedding bookings.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can photographers balance personal well-being with business demands?What are the benefits of setting clear boundaries in both personal and professional contexts?How does focusing on client experience impact long-term business success?RESOURCES:Visit Lindsay Coulter's Website - https://www.lindsaycoulterphoto.com/Follow Lindsay Coulter on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lcoulterphoto/Check out Lindsay Coulter's Course - https://www.betterthanbooked.com/Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#541 Erika Greco is a passionate amateur photographer from Charleston, South Carolina. Erika shares her unique journey into photography, which began in a magnet high school for the arts and evolved alongside her professional career in theater. A central theme in her story is the decision to keep photography as a creative outlet rather than a business, an approach that aligns with her desire to serve and connect with her community.KEY TOPICS COVEREDJourney into Photography - Erika shares how her high school exposure to photography sparked a lifelong passion, illustrating the importance of exploring different artistic mediums.Photography as Art vs. Business - Erika discusses her struggles with the pressure to monetize photography and her conscious decision to maintain it as a hobby, offering a perspective on the value of art for self-expression.Overcoming Technical Challenges - Erika elaborates on her transition from film to digital photography and how she navigated the technical challenges she encountered, providing insights into the learning process.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSVergleichungsspiel: The concept of the "comparison game," highlighting the issues of self-doubt and standards in creative fields.Photography for Service: Using photography to connect with others and support community needs, showcasing its role beyond personal artistic expression.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can photographers balance the pressure to monetize their skills with their passion for the craft?In what ways can photography serve as a tool for community engagement and service?RESOURCES:Follow Erika Greco on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikadgreco/Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#540 Photo Q&AIn Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I answer a variety of listener-submitted questions about photography. The episode covers key aspects of wedding photography, editing workflows, equipment considerations, camera settings, lighting setups for studios, the impact of personal experiences on photography, and more. KEY TOPICS COVEREDWedding Photography Tips:Explanation: Raymond discusses key considerations for first-time wedding photographers, such as the importance of following the bride and groom, capturing candid moments, and understanding the significance of a wedding day.Key Takeaways: Focus on enhancing the memory of the wedding day rather than capturing every detail, and consider renting essential equipment like a second camera body for reliability and insurance.Editing Workflow Optimization:Explanation: The episode shares strategies for effectively selecting and editing photos, emphasizing the significance of choosing the right moments.Key Takeaways: Utilize tools like Imagine for AI-assisted culling and prioritize personal artistry in photo selection.Studio Lighting Setup:Explanation: Raymond introduces the concept of a three-point lighting setup for studio photography, highlighting the use of key lights, fill lights, and backlights for creating dynamic portraits.Real-World Examples: He provides practical advice on equipment choices and configurations for achieving professional lighting effects indoors.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSThree-Point Lighting Setup: A lighting method involving a key light, fill light, and backlight to create depth and separation in portraits.Culling: The process of selecting the best photos from a shoot, which can be optimized using AI tools like Imagine.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow do you approach capturing key moments in high-pressure scenarios like weddings?In what ways can personal experiences shape a photographer's artistic style and subject matter?RESOURCES:Check out Imagen AI - https://imagen-ai.com/Get Your Reusable Silica Gel Packets - https://amzn.to/3WVAnUwLearn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#539 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Bryan Caporicci, a seasoned wedding photographer who blends business acumen with artistic passion. Bryan shares insights into navigating the photography landscape by focusing on foundational skills, emphasizing patience, and finding personal joy in photography. He highlights the importance of technical mastery before creative exploration and the value of building meaningful connections.THE BIG IDEAS Master the Basics: Understand your camera settings thoroughly before diving into complex photography scenarios. A solid foundation sets the stage for creativity. Practice Under Pressure: Learn to operate your camera instinctively in high-pressure situations. This skill is invaluable, particularly in fast-paced environments like weddings.Slow Down for Success: Embrace a patient approach to photography and avoid rushing through your learning process. Long-term success is built gradually.Embrace Creativity: Once technical mastery is second nature, focus on capturing moments, emotions, and stories that resonate and tell a unique narrative.PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLANEnhance Technical Confidence: Spend an hour each day practicing different camera settings until they become second nature. Conduct small self-assigned projects focusing on low-light and fast-paced scenarios.Develop Real-World Experience: Volunteer as a second shooter for a local event photographer to gain experience. Shadow a professional to learn the dynamics of different shoot environments. Build a Portfolio of Experiences: Select 5 personal favorite photos that highlight varied skills like lighting, composition, and emotion. Create a physical or digital album and update it monthly to track progress.Connect with Professional Circles: Attend local photography meet-ups to network and seek mentorship. Practice engaging with other photographers through collaborative projects or photo walks.Explore Personal Creativity: Dedicate time each week to a creative project that pushes your boundaries. Experiment with different genres of photography to discover new inspirations.RESOURCES:Visit Bryan Caporicci's Website - https://www.bcapphoto.com/Follow Bryan Caporicci on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bcapphoto/Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#538 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Mandy Wright, Esteban Gil, Nicole Begley, Rhea Whitney, and Michelle Harris down at Imaging USA about the art of marketing your photography business. You'll gain insights into building client relationships, valuing your work, and maintaining passion in your art.THE BIG IDEAS Create Lasting Client Relationships: Investing in genuine connections with clients can drive word-of-mouth referrals, expanding your network organically.Self-Awareness Enhances Success: Understanding what truly aligns with your values and interests can prevent burnout and guide your career path effectively.Business Adaptability: Adapting your strategy to leverage free resources and tools like social media and online communities can accelerate your growth.Finding Joy Amid Chaos: Enjoyment and playfulness in your work ensure sustained passion, even amidst the pressures of turning your hobby into a business.PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLANBuild Client Relationships: Attend events or dinners if invited to show your investment in clients' special occasions. Ensure clear, timely communication, keeping your interactions positive and professional.Develop Self-Awareness: Journal your thoughts about what feels right in your business to better align with your goals. Periodically reassess your service offerings to ensure satisfaction and fulfillment.Leverage Free Resources: Utilize social media platforms to showcase your work and engage with potential clients. Join online photography communities for knowledge sharing and mentorship opportunities.Embrace Creativity: Plan personal photography projects that excite and challenge your artistic boundaries. Explore new techniques or gear periodically to keep your skills dynamic and evolving.Focus on Genuine Networking: Connect with fellow photographers for support, inspiration, and potential collaborations. Attend workshops and conferences to learn from seasoned professionals and grow your circle.RESOURCES:Video: 12 Professional Photographers Share Best Marketing Advice for New Shooters - https://youtu.be/ySbMqA0k29wVisit Mandy Wright's Website - https://www.mandywrightphotography.com/Visit Esteban Gil's Website - https://www.egilphoto.com/Visit Nicole Begley's Website - https://hairofthedogacademy.com/Visit Rhea Whitney's Website - https://rheawhitney.com/Visit Michelle Harris' Website - https://mharrisstudios.com/Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#537 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Kelly Lawson, a passionate photographer who transitioned from the healthcare field to create a successful photography career. Kelly shares her journey, highlighting the allure of creativity and entrepreneurship that photography offers. She emphasizes the importance of mastering light and using minimal resources effectively to elevate your photography skills. THE BIG IDEAS Explore Your Creative Outlet: Photography is a beautiful way to express creativity outside of your day job and discover new entrepreneurial opportunities.Find Joy in Small Wins: Each photographic success, no matter how small, builds confidence; cherish these moments to propel your learning.Appreciate the Power of Teaching: Sharing your knowledge with others is both rewarding and reinforces your own skills.Utilize One Light Source: Simplifying your lighting setup lets you focus on mastering the fundamentals and achieving clearer, crisper photos.PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLANExperiment with Natural Light: Observe how natural light changes throughout the day. Use large windows or open shade outdoors for consistent lighting without harsh shadows.Create a Simple Background: Purchase affordable foam core or cardstock to create a seamless background that enhances your product photos. Set up a small, clean photo area in your home with these materials.Focus on a Single Subject: Start with a simple object like a coffee cup and explore different angles and lighting setups. Capture it from various perspectives to understand how angles influence perception.Connect with Your Target Audience: Tailor your photos to captivate your intended audience by thinking about what excites them. Brainstorm visual elements that resonate with your audience's interests.Rekindle Your Passion: Regularly revisit your initial motivations for taking up photography to reignite your passion. Reflect on your journey and acknowledge your growth. RESOURCES:Visit Kelly Lawson's Website - https://kellylawson.ca/Follow Kelly Lawson on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kellyslawson/Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#536 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Sabrina Gebhardt, who unravels the significance of honing your artistic vision and emphasizes the power of authenticity in your portfolio. We explore her journey from picking up a camera after a break to running a successful photography business, uncovering strategies to building a compelling portfolio, dealing with imposter syndrome, and using model calls to fuel creativity.THE BIG IDEAS Define Your Artistic Vision: Knowing your artistic take helps you create images that stand out and resonate with your audience.Embrace the Journey: Understand that portfolio building is an evolving process that grows and changes with your experiences.Attract and Repel: Curate your work to consistently reflect the type of clients you want to attract and deter those who aren't a good fit.The Power of Model Calls: Use model calls to experiment with new ideas and elevate your portfolio without client pressures.PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLANCreate a Vision Board: Use Pinterest to create a secret board with images that elicit a strong emotional response. Analyze the pinned images to identify common themes and styles that resonate with you.Schedule Test Shoots: Organize model calls with specific criteria that align with your vision, including location, outfits, and subjects. Use these sessions to experiment with new techniques and refine your style without client pressure.Regularly Update Your Portfolio: Set aside time each month to review and update your portfolio, ensuring it reflects your latest and best work. Remove any images that do not align with the type of photography you want to book.Network within Your Niche: Join online communities or local groups focused on your photography niche to exchange ideas and get feedback. Attend niche-specific workshops or retreats to hone your skills and stay inspired.Practice Selective Sharing: Only share photographs on social media and your website that truly reflect your artistic vision and desired clientele. Use captions, blogs, and behind-the-scenes content to narrate your creative process and vision, building a connection with your audience.RESOURCES:Visit Sabrina Gebhardt 's Website - https://sabrinagebhardt.com/Follow Sabrina Gebhardt  on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sabrinagebhardtphotography/Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide!https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!