The Beginner Photography Podcast

#591 Cris Duncan is an experienced studio owner from Lubbock, Texas, well-known for his expertise in lighting and in-person photography education. The conversation dives into the transformative value of hands-on, in-person learning experiences for photographers at all stages, shining a spotlight on Cris’ role with the Texas School of Professional Photography—a weeklong, immersive event designed to provide deep dives into specific areas of photography, rather than the surface-level "popcorn" approach of larger conferences.KEY TOPICS COVEREDIn-Person Education vs. Online Learning - Cris highlights the unique advantages of in-person workshops (like Texas School) over online resources. While online tools are valuable for information, in-person learning provides real-time feedback, hands-on practice, and the chance to safely make and correct mistakes.Structure and Tracks at Texas School of Professional Photography - Texas School offers deep-dives in four main tracks—digital post-production, successful studio/business growth, lighting and camera skills, and specialty/technique. Students select a single class for the week, fostering mastery and focused learning.Building Community and Lifelong Learning - Success is fueled by connecting with others, sharing experiences, and forming lasting friendships. Community learning fosters motivation, accountability, and creative problem-solving. Cris describes students returning year after year, advancing in their journeys, and forming strong professional networks.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSConcierge Family Portrait Experience: A premium, tailored photography service that guides clients in everything from wardrobe choices to matching artwork with home décor, ensuring the final portrait complements the client’s personality and environment.Texas School of Professional Photography: A weeklong educational event near Dallas, Texas, offering immersive, instructor-led classes to help photographers build foundational and advanced skills in a collaborative, hands-on environment.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSIn what ways does hands-on, in-person instruction help you understand and retain new photography skills better than online learning?How might joining a creative community or peer group accelerate your own photography journey?What skills or business goals would you most want to “deep-dive” into if given a week-long immersive class?Reflect on a time you learned best by failing—and how feedback helped you improve.RESOURCES:Visit Texas School’s Website - https://texasschool.org/Follow Cris Duncan on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cjduncanSign 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!

#590 Trevor Dayley is a renowned wedding photographer recognized as one of the best in Arizona and among the top 100 wedding photographers in the United States. In this episode, Trevor shares his personal journey and offers an honest look at the realities behind awards and industry recognition. Despite his accolades, Trevor admits to ongoing feelings of self-doubt, comparison, and imposter syndrome—challenges that persist no matter how experienced or celebrated a photographer becomes.KEY TOPICS COVEREDThe Emotional Challenges of Photography - Both Trevor and Raymond discuss dealing with self-doubt, comparison, and imposter syndrome—even after receiving major awards and recognition. Trevor shares how these feelings never fully go away and draws analogies (like the crayon box and oak tree roots) to explain the importance of a wide range of emotions and building community.Building a Sustainable Photography Career - Trevor reveals his transition from a finance job to full-time photography, candidly discussing the behind-the-scenes hustling, family upheaval, and the critical role of vendor relationships—especially with wedding coordinators—in growing his business. He shares time-management lessons, including the importance of setting boundaries and not falling into the “hustle trap” at the expense of personal life.Leveraging Social Media & Embracing Your Style - The conversation covers using social media as a portfolio and tool for genuine networking instead of chasing validation. Trevor offers actionable tips: celebrate others' successes, avoid perfectionism, give yourself creative challenges, and don't shy away from showing your unique style (even if it feels “weird” or niche).IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSHustle Trap: The cycle of feeling pressured to work nonstop, often leading to burnout and imbalance between work and personal life; highlighted as an unhealthy myth within creative industries.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can self-doubt be reframed as a helpful motivator rather than an obstacle in your photography journey?In what ways can building communities with other creatives or vendors support your growth and resilience?How do you manage the balance between achieving technical perfection and delivering authentic moments in your work?What unique aspects of your personality or style could you lean into more, rather than hide on social media?RESOURCES:Visit Trevor Dayley’s Website - https://www.trevordayley.com/Follow Trevor Dayley on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/trevordayleyFollow Magnet Mod on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/magnetmod/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!

Nick Church, a wedding and commercial photographer and founder of the Nick Church Creative Academy, shares invaluable insights drawn from nearly a decade of experience. He discusses the importance of evolving creativity to combat routine in wedding photography, advocating for personal projects and experimentation. Nick also outlines seven essential rules for photographers, emphasizing skill development over gear obsession and the significance of authentic self-marketing for aspiring business owners. His advice serves as a guide for both technical mastery and creative exploration.

#588 In this episode of the podcast, I share a personal, behind-the-scenes look at what’s been happening in my photographic life, focusing on one of the most common dilemmas photographers face: Should you repair a broken camera or upgrade to a newer model? After my Fujifilm X Pro 2 suddenly died while on a shoot, I walk listeners through the emotional and practical decision to spend $400 on repairs rather than buying a new camera. I talk candidly about why this choice isn’t just about saving money—it’s about honoring the sentimental attachment to a workhorse camera and making smart, needs-based decisions rather than getting distracted by shiny new gear.KEY TOPICS COVERED Repairing vs. Upgrading Your Camera - Raymond breaks down when it makes sense to repair a camera versus upgrading, suggesting repairs are usually worth it if they cost less than 30–40% of a new camera’s price, especially when the current camera still meets your needs. He also touches on the sentimental value attached to long-serving equipment.The Role and Impact of Upgrading Gear - He examines whether new features truly benefit your workflow or if upgrades are driven by boredom or “shiny object syndrome.” Real improvements, he argues, should address specific workflow issues or unlock new creative possibilities.Creative Inspiration and Intentional Projects - Raymond describes how long-term, theme-driven personal projects—like documenting the Indiana State Fair—offer structure and cultivate deeper creativity. He shares techniques for using constraints to generate focus and learning.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSRepair/Upgrade Threshold: The decision guiding whether to repair gear based on whether costs are less than 30–40% of replacement value, contextualized in terms of need, features, and sentimental value.Creative Constraints: Deliberately limiting yourself to a theme, technique, or subject to focus your creative energy, avoid overwhelm, and produce more meaningful work.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSWhat has influenced your past decisions to repair or upgrade camera gear? How did those choices affect your creativity and output?How can creative constraints or themed projects deepen your photography and help you grow as an artist?In your own workflow, are there features you genuinely need in new gear, or are you tempted by upgrades for other reasons?How does stepping away from work to seek inspiration impact your creative process?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!

#587 In this episode of the podcast, I dig into what baseball has taught me about becoming a better photographer. At first glance, these two worlds might seem unrelated, but I quickly realized that the secret to growth in both comes down to the quiet, persistent practice—those thousands of unseen reps that prepare us for our “big game” moments. I share stories from the baseball world, like Dodgers legends Freddie Freeman and Cody Bellinger, as well as insights from head photographer Jon Soohoo, drawing parallels to our photographic journey.KEY TOPICS COVERED The Importance of Consistent Practice (Reps) - Drawing inspiration from baseball, Raymond explains that greatness comes not from isolated performances, but from thousands of unseen, intentional repetitions. Photographers should practice regularly—not just at special events—to develop instinct and technical fluency.Learning From Failure and Tracking the Right Stats - Baseball legends, who "fail" most of their at-bats, exemplify that success includes and even requires frequent failure. Similarly, not every photo will be a winner, and that's normal. Raymond recommends tracking progress by the number of photos taken or personal growth, not likes or follows.Growth Through Community and Feedback - Community is vital, just as team dynamics support baseball players. Photography communities (like the podcast’s Facebook group) offer constructive feedback and support, accelerating learning compared to going solo. Having a mentor or a coach provides targeted insight for growth.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSReps (Repetitions): Intentional practice sessions, drills, or photographic exercises done consistently. In the context of photography, "reps" mean repeatedly shooting in diverse scenarios to build technical competence, instinct, and creative resilience.Utility Player: In baseball, a player proficient in multiple positions; used here to describe photographers experimenting with various genres to build versatility and discover their niche.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can you integrate intentional photography "reps" into your everyday routine?In what areas do you find yourself waiting for the "perfect" moment rather than practicing in less exciting conditions?What “stats” matter most to your personal growth as a photographer? How might you measure improvement beyond social media engagement?How could participating in a community or seeking coached feedback support your progress?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!

The host discusses balancing a day job with a photography side hustle, highlighting the power of automation tools for seamless client management. Personal evolution in editing styles is explored, with encouragement to embrace change and maintain authenticity. Strategies for overcoming creative blocks are shared, alongside tips for capturing spontaneous moments. Additionally, practical advice on selecting gear for studio settings helps enthusiasts make informed choices, enhancing their photographic outcomes.

#585 Mark Hemmings is an internationally recognized travel photographer and educator. Mark shares his inspiring journey, beginning with his early days in Canada when he first discovered photography while traveling in Japan. He walks listeners through the evolution of his career—from working in the movie industry and commercial photography to finding his true passion in travel and photography workshops around the globe.KEY TOPICS COVEREDPreparation and Mindset for Travel Photography - Mark describes two key approaches: meticulous pre-trip research and spontaneous, immersive travel. He discusses the creative advantages and excitement that come from unfamiliar environments and even a bit of discomfort or fear.Gear Choices and Minimalism - The benefits of packing light—such as bringing a single camera and prime lens—are highlighted, along with advice about travel safety, avoiding gear overload, and tailoring your kit to your creative needs.Creative Techniques for Captivating Travel Photos - Mark emphasizes using framing, foreground elements, and unique perspectives to avoid cliché photos and elevate your work. He discusses storytelling, engaging viewers’ imaginations, and composing photos that invite longer reflection.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSForeground Element: An object or shape in the front of the image used to frame or partially obscure the subject, adding depth, intrigue, and composition interest.Slide Film: A type of photographic film producing direct positive transparency, requiring precise exposure and often used for projecting images; discussed as foundational to Mark’s photographic education.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow does limiting your gear influence your creativity or challenge you on a shoot?What are some ways you can move beyond basic “snapshot” photography during your next trip?In what environments do you feel most creatively energized, and why?RESOURCES:Visit Mark Hemmings’ Website - https://markhemmings.com/Follow Mark Hemmings on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markhemmings/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!

#584 In this episode of the podcast, I explore the idea that your photos are not broken just because they aren’t technically perfect or heavily edited. I share my own experiences as a photographer, reflecting on how the rise of digital editing and AI has made many of us feel like every photo needs to be “fixed” to be worth keeping or sharing. I encourage you to let go of those expectations and to rediscover what made you pick up a camera in the first place—whether it was to slow down, see the world differently, or simply enjoy making images.KEY TOPICS COVEREDThe Pressure of Perfection and Editing in Modern Photography - Raymond discusses how digital tools, social media, and AI have shifted expectations toward perfection. He challenges the presumption that photos must always be edited, and recalls the joy of simple, unedited film photography. The key takeaway is to let go of perfection and rediscover the fun in photography.Imperfection as Art and Authenticity - The episode illustrates, with anecdotes from Raymond’s wedding photography, the value of candid moments (like a flower girl picking her nose), emphasizing that these “flaws” make photos memorable and human. He connects this to the broader theme of authenticity, suggesting that imperfection is what sets human-made images apart from AI-generated ones.Practical Approach: Enjoyment and Mindset Shift (Plork) - Raymond introduces “plork” (play + work). He encourages listeners to shoot for enjoyment, intentionally practicing and experimenting with their cameras rather than working only to “fix” images later. Actionable advice includes shooting JPEGs, skipping editing, and focusing on moments that feel right rather than those that look perfect.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSPlork: A blend of play and work, meaning practicing a craft with a playful, no-pressure attitude. In photography, “plorking” means shooting for enjoyment while still improving your skills—the core mindset Raymond urges listeners to adopt.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSWhen do you feel most pressure to edit your photos, and how does it affect your enjoyment of photography?Can you think of a photo you love because of, not in spite of, its imperfections? Why does it resonate with you?What habits can you adopt to “plork” more during your photography sessions?RESOURCES:Check out the Headway App for book summaries - https://makeheadway.com/Book: "The Creative Act" by Rick RubinBook: "The Dude and the Zen Master" by Jeff BridgesSign 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!

#583 Dina Goldstein is an acclaimed photographer and visual artist known for her provocative, narrative-driven imagery and a career spanning over 30 years. Dina shares her unconventional journey into photography—from her early fascination with how she saw the world, to a pivotal trip in her 20s that inspired her to take her first photography course. She discusses her drive for continual learning, willingness to make mistakes, and evolving artistic process.KEY TOPICS COVEREDFinding Your Path in Photography - Dina shares how she did not set out to become a photographer, but her distinct way of seeing the world and a curiosity about visual storytelling led her to the camera. She discusses her transition from aspiring actor to dedicated photographer, and encourages beginners to “just do it”—advocating for action and experimentation over perfection from the start.Embracing Mistakes and Gaining Technical Mastery - Dina recounts real-life stories from her early career, emphasizing how setbacks and mistakes—like disappointing film results or technical failures on major shoots—became opportunities for growth. She underscores the importance of preparation, learning the fundamentals (especially light), and practicing relentlessly before critical assignments. Her approach includes making and learning from mistakes, remaining humble, and valuing ongoing practice.Editorial vs. Artistic Photography - The episode dives into the distinctions between editorial work (client-driven, often for magazines or businesses) versus personal art projects (driven by the artist’s own vision). Dina explains the expectations, pressures, and creative compromises involved in each. She provides examples from her own career, contrasting the demands of magazine portraits with the fully conceptualized, collaborative productions required for series like Fallen Princesses and The Ten Commandments.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSEditorial Photography: Photography commissioned for publications, shaped by specific requirements from art directors or clients, as opposed to personal, self-driven art pieces.Artistic Eye: The innate or cultivated ability to see images, light, and composition in unique ways. Essential for transcending mere technical competence and creating meaningful work.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow do your personal experiences and worldview shape the themes you explore in your photography?When faced with setbacks or mistakes, what strategies can help you learn and grow rather than lose confidence?What distinguishes a meaningful personal project from a commercial or editorial assignment for you?RESOURCES:Visit Dina Goldstein's Website - https://dinagoldstein.com/Follow Dina Goldstein  on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dinagoldstein/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!

#582 In this episode of the podcast, I take a deep dive into how comparison can seriously derail your progress and enjoyment as a photographer. Inspired by my own experiences learning new skills—like learning to juggle and nurturing my lawn—I share how easy it is to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others, especially in the age of social media. I remind listeners that success in photography, or any art, isn't reserved for those who started young or have the best equipment—it's all about showing up, being consistent, and putting in the work over time.I discuss the myth of overnight success by highlighting stories of people like Morgan Freeman and Stan Lee, who found their big breaks later in life. I emphasize that wherever you are in your journey is exactly where you need to be, and it’s totally normal to have doubts and setbacks. What matters most is your willingness to keep going and focus on your own growth, not what others appear to be achieving.KEY TOPICS COVEREDThe Perils of Comparison in Photography - Raymond explains how comparing one’s progress or results to others—whether it’s speed of learning (like juggling), gear, or social media metrics—can steal the joy from personal growth. He urges photographers to focus on their individual journey and celebrate each step forward.The Myth of Instant Success and the Power of Consistency - Using stories of well-known figures like Morgan Freeman and Stan Lee, Raymond underscores that it’s not too late to start or improve at photography (or any art). He highlights the importance of steady effort, practice (“putting in the reps”), and embracing the “gray areas” of life and art.Setting Intentional Goals and Noticing the World - The episode shifts towards actionable advice—encouraging listeners to discover what draws them to photography, rather than chasing external validation. Raymond introduces a practical seven-day photo diary challenge, urging listeners to capture images that make them “pause and notice,” fostering mindfulness and personal vision.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSComparison Trap: The tendency to measure one’s worth or progress against others, leading to dissatisfaction and doubt. Relevant throughout the episode as Raymond identifies it as a major hindrance to creative growth.Reps (Putting in the Reps): A term borrowed from training, here meaning to consistently practice taking photos. The more you shoot, the better you’ll become—emphasizing process over perfection.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow has comparing your work to others affected your enjoyment of photography?What motivates you to pick up your camera—validation from others, or personal fulfillment?In what ways can you adopt more consistency in your photographic journey?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!