#533 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Ashley Marston, an accomplished birth and family photographer from British Columbia, Canada. Ashley opens up about her journey from film to digital photography and the deeply personal moments that shaped her career. She shares her method of balancing documentary and lifestyle photography, offering insightful advice on maintaining creativity, engaging with clients, and conquering the unique challenges of birth photography.THE BIG IDEASFinding Your Vision: Identifying a meaningful subject that you love to photograph can reveal your potential and passion, just as it did for Ashley.Evolving with Technology: Embracing new tools like digital cameras can open up opportunities to experiment, improve, and expand your skills.Balancing Control and Authenticity: Knowing when to direct a scene and when to let moments unfold naturally leads to genuine, impactful photographs.Staying Motivated: Maintaining a positive mindset and communication with clients ensures rejuvenation and high-quality work despite unexpected challenges.PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLANExplore and Understand Lighting: Spend time observing how light changes throughout the day in various settings. Experiment with different lighting techniques, such as backlighting or using reflectors, to see their effects on your photos.Practice Authentic Moments: Capture everyday moments of your family or friends, focusing on candid shots that tell a story. Choose a relaxed setting and let the subjects act naturally, aiming for unposed and genuine interactions.Develop a Consistent Creative Routine: Start a Project 365, committing to take and post one meaningful photo every day. Use this project to focus on different aspects of photography each month, such as lighting, composition, or movement.Engage with Your Subject: Communicate with your subjects before and during the shoot to make them comfortable and involved in the process. Plan your sessions around typical family activities to capture authentic moments that reflect their everyday life.Set and Track Your Photography Goals: Write down specific goals you want to achieve, such as getting featured in a publication or mastering a new technique. Regularly submit your best work to reputable competitions or communities to gauge progress and receive constructive feedback.RESOURCES:Visit Ashley Marston's Website - https://www.ashleymarstonphotography.com/Follow Ashley Marston on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ashleymarstonphotography/Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#532 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Sarah Wagner, an adept family and wedding photographer who has crafted a flourishing career through adaptability and practicality. Sarah shares her initial struggles and triumphs, emphasizing the importance of balancing artistic vision with client expectations and the critical role of understanding lighting.THE BIG IDEASAdaptability Matters: Being flexible in your style and approach helps satisfy diverse client needs and keeps your business thriving despite life changes.Lighting is Key: Mastering natural light can drastically improve your image quality; understand its impact on various environments.Iterative Learning: Embrace mistakes and continuous practice to refine your skills; growth often comes from trial and error.Balancing Creativity and Client Needs: Harmonize your artistic vision with what clients want to ensure satisfaction and recurring business.PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLANMaster Natural Light: Observe and document how light changes throughout the day in different settings. Practice shooting in varied lighting conditions, manipulating light with simple tools like a reflector.Develop Your Style: Create a mood board with elements from photos you admire. Experiment with combining these elements to develop a unique style suited to your environment.Practice Adaptability: Plan sessions that balance posed and candid shots to cater to varying client needs. Review each session's feedback to adjust your techniques accordingly.Build Client Relationships: Communicate clearly with clients about their expectations before sessions. Follow up with clients post-session, asking for honest feedback and areas for improvement.Invest in Education: Enroll in online courses that focus on both the artistic and business aspects of photography. Attend workshops or join local photography groups to continually learn and network with peers.RESOURCES:Visit Sarah Wagner's Website - https://chasingcreativemedia.com/Follow Sarah Wagner on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chasingcreativemedia/ Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#531 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Matthew Jordan Smith, a renowned celebrity fashion and beauty photographer. Matthew shares his inspiring journey, from his initial spark of passion ignited by his father, to working with some of the biggest names in Hollywood. He emphasizes the importance of persistence, preparation, and developing a unique vision.THE BIG IDEASPersist Through Challenges: Learning photography is a marathon, not a sprint. Continuous practice and perseverance lead to progress and success.Prepare Meticulously: Visualization and preparation are key. Develop storyboards or vision boards to communicate your ideas clearly to clients and team members.Embrace Your Unique Vision: Identify what you love in life and let that passion drive your creativity. Your unique perspective is what sets you apart.Value Continuous Learning: Never stop learning, whether it's about lighting techniques or new trends. Knowledge and skill refinement keep your work relevant and captivating.PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLANVisual Storyboarding: Create a vision board using images from magazines, Pinterest, or your previous work that reflects the mood and style you want to achieve. Share your storyboard with peers or mentors to get feedback before your actual shoot.Lighting Practice: Use a simple lamp to practice different lighting techniques, experimenting with angles and light intensity. Capture the same subject under various lighting conditions to understand how light direction and quality impact your photos.Portfolio Development: Curate a collection of your best work in a digital portfolio, focusing on a consistent theme or style. Update your portfolio regularly, replacing outdated images with your latest and best work.Networking and Learning: Join photography forums, social media groups, or local clubs to connect with other photographers and exchange feedback. Attend photography workshops or webinars to continuously improve your skills and stay updated on industry trends.Client Communication: Draft a clear project brief outlining your vision, the shoot's purpose, and key details to share with your client. Follow up with clients post-shoot to get feedback and ensure their expectations were met, reinforcing professional relationships.RESOURCES:Visit Matthew Jordan Smith's Website - https://www.matthewjordansmith.com/Follow Matthew Jordan Smith on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/matthewjordansmith/Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#530 Photo Q&AIn Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I answer your top photography questions. You’ll discover the benefits of back button focus, learn how to communicate the value you offer as a photographer, and explore essential backup strategies to protect your photos. What You'll Learn:Achieving Depth of Field Without Telephoto LensesDiscover practical tips for creating stunning portraits with a blurred background using aperture and subject distance.Mastering Back Button FocusLearn how to use back button focus to improve your efficiency and capture those fleeting, key moments.Communicating Your Unique ValueUnderstand how to articulate what makes your photography special and attract clients who resonate with your style.Backups and Photo SafetyGet essential advice on safeguarding your photos from unforeseen events with proper backup strategies. Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#529 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Karen Doughman, a middle school English teacher turned photographer. We dive into Karen's journey, her struggles with self-doubt, and her strategies to overcome them. Karen shares her experiences from joining the photography community during COVID, her ambitions to evoke memories through her photos, and her aspirations to master lighting. THE BIG IDEASOvercoming Self-Doubt: Acknowledge your fears but don't let them hold you back. Build confidence by taking your camera with you everywhere. Embrace Imperfection: Let go of the need for complete control in every shot, allowing for creativity and spontaneity. Focus on Authenticity: Aim to evoke genuine emotions and memories in your photos, rather than seeking perfection. Persistent Practice: Consistent practice and learning from feedback are key to gradually enhancing your photography skills.PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLANCarry Your Camera Everywhere: Make it a habit to bring your camera to all your daily activities, even if you don't intend to shoot. Challenge yourself with small, spontaneous photography projects to get more comfortable shooting in various settings.Work on Lighting: Observe how natural light changes throughout the day and practice shooting in different lighting conditions. Use simple tools like reflectors or white cards to manipulate light and learn how it affects your subjects.Embrace Spontaneity: Engage in Raymond Hatfield’s challenge to take 100 photos within 10 minutes to push your creative boundaries. Photograph a family member jumping, focusing on capturing their movement and expressions rather than aiming for flawless shots.Build a Support Network: Join local photography groups or online communities to share your work, receive feedback, and connect with other photographers. Actively participate in discussions and group activities to gain new perspectives and techniques.Plan and Execute Creative Projects: Brainstorm and plan a thematic photo shoot with a clear vision. Execute your planned shoot, taking time to set up props and lighting, then reflect on the results to identify areas for improvement and celebrate your progress.RESOURCES:Visit Karen Doughman's Website - https://doughmanphotography.mypixieset.com/Follow Karen Doughman on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/doughman_photography/ Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#528 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Talor Stone, a passionate photographer and PhD researcher. Talor shares her insights on enhancing your travel photography, balancing planning with spontaneity, and using storytelling to create more impactful images. THE BIG IDEASInvest in Local Expertise: Hiring a local guide or joining a group can add immense value to your travel photography, offering unique perspectives and insights you might miss independently.Flexibility in Planning: While planning is essential, being able to pivot and improvise can lead to your most memorable shots. Adapt your strategies based on the situation.Importance of Storytelling: Move beyond mere documentation; focus on capturing stories. Consider environmental context and the behavior of subjects to add depth to your images.Patience and Intent: Patience and a clear photographic intent often result in more meaningful photos. Understanding your subject's behavior can help you anticipate the perfect moment.PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLANUse Google Earth for Scouting: Spend time exploring potential locations and angles for your next shoot. Identify key features like bodies of water or unique land formations that can frame compelling shots.Hire a Local Guide: Research and connect with local guides who are knowledgeable about the area's hidden gems. Collaborate with them to access exclusive spots and gain insider information that enriches your photography.Balance Planning with Flexibility: Set a flexible itinerary, allowing extra time for spontaneous photo opportunities. Be prepared to change plans based on weather or unexpected scenes, keeping an open mind to what unfolds.Storytelling through Environmental Context: Integrate elements of the environment into your photos to provide context. Focus on capturing interactions and relationships between subjects and their surroundings.Improve Patience and Focus: Sit quietly in a chosen location, observing and waiting for the right moments to develop naturally. Practice understanding your subject’s behavior to predict and capture significant actions and expressions.RESOURCES:Visit Talor Stone's Website - https://www.talorstonephotography.com/Follow Talor Stone on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/talorstonephotography/ Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#527 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with TahJah Harmony, an inspiring photographer who shares her perspective on managing connectivity and avoiding burnout. TahJah shares her invaluable insights on setting boundaries, balancing hustle initially, establishing business hours, and the significance of rest.THE BIG IDEASSet Boundaries: Clearly defined business hours help maintain healthy relationships and provide time to recharge.Embrace Hustle, but Balance: An initial hustle mindset is beneficial, yet balance is crucial for long-term sustainability.Identify Rest: Discover meaningful ways to rest that truly relax you and prevent burnout.Turn Off Notifications: Reducing distractions increases focus and time management, leading to more productive and creative sessions.PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLANEstablish boundaries: Define specific business hours for client communications and stick to them. Inform your clients about your availability to manage expectations.Plan for Creative Rests: Schedule regular breaks during your day to step away from work. Choose relaxing activities, like gardening or coffee brewing, to disconnect and recharge.Manage Notifications: Turn off non-essential notifications on your phone. Use dedicated work times where communication is limited to family or essential contacts.Evaluate Your Tasks: Conduct an audit of all tasks related to your photography business. Use note cards to identify and outsource less enjoyable tasks, focusing on those that spark creativity.Pursue Non-Commercial Hobbies: Identify hobbies unrelated to photography and engage in them regularly. Protect these hobbies from becoming side businesses, allowing them to remain sources of inspiration and relaxation.RESOURCES:Visit TahJah Harmony's Website - https://www.quaintandwhim.com/Follow TahJah Harmony on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tahjahharmony/ Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#526In this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, I share the most powerful habits that can propel your photography journey in 2025. Instead of fleeting resolutions, I emphasize adopting purposeful habits that build skill and confidence over time. Discover the importance of focusing on your craft rather than gear, cultivating punctuality, and the power of daily practice. My goal is to share actionable ways to embed these habits into your routine. By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with practical strategies to enhance your photography skills, boost client relationships, and foster a growth mindset. The 14 Habits to AdoptStop Watching Gear ReviewsBe On TimeAlways Do Your BestShoot DailyPrep For Every ShootBuild RelationshipsSlow DownKeep Going, Even When Its ToughBe Strict With Yourself, and Tolerant Of OthersWork For FreeGive Without ExpectationDon't ComplainParticipate in a Photography CommunityJust Start Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#525 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Chris Britton, a talented photographer and father who juggles family life with his passion for capturing moments. Chris beautifully articulates the balance between creative freedom and client expectations, the importance of being present, and overcoming social media pressures.THE BIG IDEASBalance Creativity and Client Desires: Blend your artistic vision with client needs to create compelling images that satisfy both parties. Be Present in the Moment: Stay engaged and mindful during shoots to capture authentic, meaningful photographs. Overcome Social Media Pressure: Focus on personal growth and expression rather than social media metrics like likes and shares. Embrace Imperfection: Accept noise and other imperfections as part of the creative process, enhancing your willingness to experiment.PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLANStay Present in Your Shoots: Turn off notifications during photo sessions to minimize distractions. Take a moment to breathe and observe your surroundings before pressing the shutter.Experiment with Light and Color: Use natural window light to explore different moods and effects. Try adding warm tones in Lightroom by adjusting the color temperature or using split toning.Blend Creativity and Practicality: Plan a family photoshoot with a mix of candid and posed shots to practice balancing client and personal creativity. Set specific creative goals for each shoot, such as trying new compositions or lighting setups.Improve Your Technical Skills: Spend time learning to control shutter speed and aperture to tell clearer stories. Experiment with different ISO settings to find the balance between reducing noise and maintaining image quality.Enhance Your Post-Processing Consistency: Calibrate your monitor using built-in tools or a dedicated calibration device to ensure color accuracy. Create a preset in Lightroom that matches your preferred style for easy and consistent editing.RESOURCES:Follow Chris Britton on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iamchrisbritton/ Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

The Beginner Photography Podcast is for anyone who wants to start taking better photos today. Tune in each Tuesday for a new interview from one of the world's top photographers in their field who share their tips and secrets on how they got to where they are today and how they see the world. https://www.beginnerphotographypodcast.com/ Deliver your photos in style with CloudSpot Client Gallery System. Grab your free account and get 10GB of storage FREE when you sign up at http://deliverphotos.com/Connect with the Beginner Photography Podcast! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Send in your Photo Questions to get answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!