The Beginner Photography Podcast

#420 In today's episode of the podcast, you'll learn about the innate human instinct to seek guidance and look up to leaders. You'll explore the ease of finding mentors and teachers online, and how this accessibility can either benefit or hinder your growth as a photographer. Discover the importance of curiosity, experimentation, and taking action in your photography journey. Explore the concept of long-term projects and the value of personal experiences in improving your skills. Discover practical tips for becoming a better photographer and the significance of personal development in your photography journey.THE BIG IDEASSeeking guidance and looking up to leaders is a natural instinct that can shape your photography journey.The internet provides easy access to mentors and teachers, but it's crucial to be discerning and choose resources that truly benefit you.Curiosity and experimentation are essential for growth as a photographer. Embrace new ideas and be open to trying different techniques and styles.Long-term photography projects can be personally fulfilling and offer opportunities to witness your growth and evolution as a photographer.The value of personal development cannot be overstated in improving your photography skills. It's not just about technical knowledge but also self-reflection and growth.Resources:- Join the Free and Private Beginner Photography Podcast Community Connect 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!

#419 In today's episode of the podcast, you're going to learn a game-changing way of understanding lighting in different environments. Portrait photographer Cris Duncan shares his experience and insights on how to create soft light without expensive equipment. Discover how lighting can transform your photography. THE BIG IDEASSize matters: The size of the light source affects the quality of light. A larger light source produces softer light. DIY diffusers: You can achieve a large light source without breaking the bank by using shower curtains, frosted paint, or drop cloths as diffusers.Choose your market: Just like high-end dining and fast-food chains coexist, decide which market you want to serve as a photographer and focus on it.Family photography matters: Family portraits are like high-end steakhouse meals – they have a significant impact on society, providing a sense of belonging and individual roles.Client experience matters: Taking a client-centric approach and planning ahead can elevate your work and change the way people value your photography.Resources:- Join the Free and Private Beginner Photography Podcast Community: Connect with other photographers and access valuable resources in the community.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!

#418 In this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, I chat with photographer Stephen Wallace about the importance of making work that truly matters. Steven discuss' the impact of blending personal exploration and client work, and how this can lead to greater satisfaction and better results. Steven shares his insights on shooting film and digital, and offers advice on navigating the film versus digital debate. The conversation delves into the psychology behind our choice of subjects, and emphasizes the significance of creating work that resonates with us on a personal level. This conversation will encourage you to prioritize you own artistic vision and not simply follow trends.THE BIG IDEASPersonal Work Powers Growth: Taking time to shoot just for yourself keeps your creativity fresh and prevents burnout in paid work.Process Matters More Than Perfection: Enjoy the act of photographing, regardless of the final image—sometimes the experience is the true reward.Balance Authenticity with Professionalism: Blend your personal style with what clients value by staying open and observant, creating work that’s meaningful on both fronts.Reflection Builds Self-Awareness: Revisiting your older photos reveals recurring themes and helps you understand what draws you in as a photographer.Resources:Steven Wallace's Photography WebsiteFollow Steven on InstagramSign 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!

#417 In this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, I delve into the fascinating journey of finding your style in photography. We'll explore the importance of having a clear message in your work and how it creates different imagery in people's minds. I'll share tips on critically analyzing photographs and understanding the story the photographer is trying to convey. Together, we'll uncover the organic nature of developing your style and the importance of embracing imperfections along the way. By the end of this episode, you'll gain a newfound perspective on the power of storytelling through your photography and be inspired to use your unique perspective to shape your own style.THE BIG IDEASYour style in photography is organically developed through your personal preferences, experiences, emotions, and perceptions.Use the camera as a tool to tell the story you want to convey and consider how different perspectives and camera heights can create a connection or evoke emotions in the viewer.Effective storytelling requires a clear message, and the message you want to convey can shape your style and images.Interpret photographs critically and consider the story the photographer is trying to convey, as there are no right or wrong answers. The effectiveness lies in how well they convey their intended message.Finding your style is an ongoing process and cannot be manufactured. Embrace the organic nature of developing your unique perspective and use it to enhance your storytelling skills.The Scene from the Godfather - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppjyB2MpxBUSign 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!

#416 In this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast I chat with the talented Heather Lahtinen to discuss aligning photography with personal values. You'll hear Heather's insightful advice on decision-making, trusting yourself, and finding your unique style as a photographer. From the importance of quick decision-making to the power of experimentation, Heather's pragmatic approach will empower you to take bold steps in your photography journey. Discover how to break free from the need for perfection and embrace the confidence to trust your instincts. Learn how to set your own pricing, aligning it with your values and goals. Get ready to be inspired and equipped with practical tools to elevate your photography and build a business that aligns with who you truly are. THE BIG IDEASQuick decisions lead to progress: Overthinking can be a roadblock. Trust yourself and make decisions swiftly.Experiment and gather data: Trust your instincts and try different strategies to find what works best for you.Focus on your own preferences: Stop comparing yourself to others and stay true to your own style and values.Build confidence through competence: Master your craft and believe in your abilities to attract the right clients.Personal experimentation is key: Find your unique style by exploring what resonates with you and trusting your own judgment.Resources:Heather's Flourish Academy websiteSign 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!

#415 In this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, I interview fine art photographer Melanie Osaka. Melanie shares her unique approach to photography, focusing on self-directed work and not being driven by the need for an audience or financial success. She discusses the importance of creativity and trying new things, and offers insights into photography history and her own captivating images. THE BIG IDEASPersonal Projects Fuel Growth: Dedicating time to personal projects deepens your understanding of photography and helps you discover your authentic voice.Constraints Spark Creativity: Placing limitations on your process, like giving yourself briefs or deadlines, can actually help your creativity thrive and overcome overwhelm.Embrace Uncomfortable Experiments: Leaning into discomfort, self-portraits, or non-traditional methods often leads to your most interesting and authentic images.Curiosity Over Perfection: Stay curious about your tools, your process, and the art form’s history—the goal isn’t perfection, but continuous reflection and improvement.Resources:Melanie Issaka’s websiteFollow Melanie on InstagramSign 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!

#414 In this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast I chat with celebrity wedding photographer John Dolan who shares his unique approach to capturing the full story and emotions of a wedding. John reminds us that photography is about more than just obsessing over small details, it's about capturing the broad narrative and moments that truly matter. As he takes us on a journey through his experiences and insights, we learn the importance of letting go and embracing the natural flow of weddings, trusting our instincts to capture authentic moments. John's passion for tailoring his work to a distinct clientele encourages us to find our own form of photography and break free from industry expectations.THE BIG IDEASAuthenticity over Perfection: Let go of industry pressures to shoot ‘trendy’ or technically flawless photos—real, meaningful images resonate the most.Be a Storyteller: Focus on capturing the full narrative of moments you photograph—look for connections, emotions, and interactions, not just picture-perfect poses.Narrow Your Audience: Trying to please everyone dilutes your vision. Seek out people who appreciate your unique style, and focus on creating for them.Trust Yourself: Learning to trust your instincts and respond to what’s really happening, rather than forcing poses or moments, leads to more compelling images.Resources:Celebrity Wedding Photographer John Dolan's WebsiteThe Perfect Imperfect Photography BookSign 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!

#413 In this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, we dive deep into the world of creating impactful images with the talented John Greengo. John shares his insights on the power of knowing, unleashing your creative mindset, and having quality equipment that suits your needs. As you listen, reflect on your top ten photos and the mindset you were in when you captured them. Join our community and participate in our five-step photo challenge to develop awareness and capture fresh perspectives on familiar subjects. Remember, the potential for a portfolio-worthy shot is always within reach if you keep an open mind and embrace the opportunities around you. THE BIG IDEASCultivate Self-Awareness: Regularly questioning why certain images work or fail sharpens your photographic vision and helps you develop a signature style with purpose.Embrace Flexibility and Persistence: The best images often come from overcoming setbacks or adapting when plans change—tenacity and adaptability open the door to unexpected opportunities.Focus on Intentional Composition: Thoughtful choices in framing, light, and timing elevate your photos from simple snapshots to impactful visual stories.Find Beauty in the Mundane: Great photography means seeing extraordinary potential in ordinary moments—everyday subjects become captivating when you train your eye to notice.Resources:John Greengo's website - https://www.johngreengo.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!

#412 In this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, we dive headfirst into the 9th installment of our 10-part Photography Manifesto series. Titled "You Can't Make Money From Your Creativity as a Photographer," this episode challenges conventional wisdom and explores the delicate balance between artistic expression and financial success. I unpack my personal insights and experiences from 10 years in the industry and 7 years of hosting this podcast. Discover why prioritizing your own unique vision is crucial in standing out from the crowd and attracting clients. I'll provide practical tips for finding your artistic identity and navigating the challenges of meeting client expectations. By the end of this episode, you'll be armed with the knowledge and inspiration to confidently pursue your creative passions while still thriving in the business of photography. THE BIG IDEASCreative Freedom vs. Client Expectations: You can't rely on paid work to be your purest creative outlet—paid jobs often require you to meet client needs, not just your own vision.Avoiding Burnout Requires Balance: Neglecting your personal projects for business tasks leads to creative stagnation. You must prioritize shooting for yourself to remain passionate.External Validation Limits Artistry: When your value is tied only to praise or payment from others, you’ll take fewer risks and your work will become safer and less inspired.Deliberate Practice Builds Both Skill and Vision: You must practice personal photography with intention, using every shoot to get closer to your unique style—even if nobody else sees those images.Links and Resources:Listen to the full Photography Manifesto Episode, BPP 334Join The Beginner Photography Podcast CommunitySign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries todayFree Lightroom Presets!Connect 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!

#411 In this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast I chat with the talented Jen Pierce.  You'll discover that capturing natural, intimate moments can create stunning and authentic images. Say goodbye to traditional poses, and embrace the beauty of interaction and motion. Learn how to guide your subjects to create genuine moments, using prompts and suggestions that elicit real emotions. And don't forget the power of editing! Discover how warm tones, moody vibes, and subtle grain can add depth and personality to your photos. Get inspired to find your unique editing style and confidently express yourself as a photographer.THE BIG IDEASFind Your Authentic Style: Stop editing for others and discover what truly resonates with you—your unique vision sets you apart.Embrace Imperfection: Unpredictability and “accidents” often lead to your best, most compelling shots. Let go of rigid expectations.Connect with Your Subjects: Fostering genuine interaction brings out natural moments and meaningful emotion in your portraits.Share Your Story: Being open and relatable builds trust with your audience and helps turn followers into loyal clients.Resources:Jen Pierce’s websiteJen Pierce on InstagramSign 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!