The Beginner Photography Podcast

#381 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, Raymond Hatfield discuss' a wide range of topics from perseverance to finding a niche in the saturated photography industry. The episode opens up with the importance of having a reason for pursuing photography and how that reason can keep you going when things get tough and help you avoid giving up. They touch on how style is something that chooses you and how to hone it rather than copying someone else's style. The episode also focuses on standing out in the photography market and the importance of continually developing skills to cater to a specific demographic. He recommends getting the mini photography course offered on the podcast called "Conquer Your Camera", which covers essential photography elements like exposure, composition, and lighting. All this and more is discussed in this insightful episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast.THE BIG IDEASYour Style Is Unique—And Built Over Time: Take lots of photos to let your authentic style naturally emerge and evolve, rather than imitating trends or others.Focus Deeply on One Thing: Narrow your specialty to become the go-to photographer for a specific subject or community, making you memorable and in demand.Charge What You’re Worth: Believe in the value you provide; higher pricing reflects confidence and enables you to deliver a better experience to clients who respect your work. Genuine Care Creates Connection: Prioritize personal relationships with clients, investing attention and empathy, so people remember and recommend you.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!

#380 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, Raymond Hatfield sits down with child and family photographer Melissa Miller. Melissa discusses her expertise in capturing genuine expressions in children through play. She shares her journey from photography hobbyist to professional photographer, the value of incorporating play into sessions, and her approach to working with families. Melissa emphasizes the importance of adapting one's approach to a child's personality and energy level and the impact of having a positive mindset. Tune in to learn how incorporating play can result in beautiful photos and to hear Melissa's personal journey of turning her passion into a thriving business.THE BIG IDEASPlay Breaks Down Barriers: Genuine smiles and joy emerge when you engage children with fun activities rather than rigid posing, unlocking emotion in every photo.Every Child Is Photographable: Adapting your approach—whether a child is shy or energetic—ensures that every session can yield beautiful, authentic images.Connection Over Perfection: Prioritizing the experience and making children feel seen creates images rich with emotion and memories for families.Let Light Guide Your Session: Observing and using natural light intentionally, especially during golden hour or near windows, will elevate the mood and quality of your photos.Links and ResourcesChild and Family Photographer Melissa Millers WebsiteFollow Melissa on InstagramCheck out Melissa's Course "101 Ways to Play: Fresh Fun Family Photography"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!

#379 Ryan Coody is a photographer whose passion for photography started during his second try at college. He joined the college newspaper and started writing articles which lead him to discover that he could earn more money by taking photos to go along with the articles. He quickly switched to photography and never looked back. Ryan is now an accomplished photographer who has honed his skills and continues to create beautiful images. His love for photography is evident in his work and he is always looking for new and creative ways to capture the perfect shot.THE BIG IDEASGrowth Happens at the Edge of Comfort: Pushing beyond your comfort zone, whether in genres or techniques, is crucial for creative development and new opportunities.Learn by Doing and Failing: Every mistake—missed focus, overexposed shot, or creative misstep—brings valuable insights that lead to future success.Creativity is Built, Not Found: Inspiration often strikes through self-assigned projects, experimenting with new ideas, and reflecting on what clicks with you visually.Embrace Your Unique Path: Your background, interests, and approach are assets—leaning into what sets you apart helps craft an authentic photographic voice.Links and Resources:Check out Ryan Coody's WebsiteFollow Ryan on InstagramJoin The Beginner Photography Podcast CommunitySign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries todayFree Lightroom Presets!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!

#378 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, we explore the 5th rule of the 'Photography Manifesto': Your Camera Is Not Holding You Back, YOU Are Holding Yourself Back. I'll dive into how mastering your current camera settings can enhance your images and how to hone your storytelling ability. We talk about how the most memorable images in history were not taken with the high-tech cameras available today. And I leave you with practical steps to wrapping it all up together to take better photos.THE BIG IDEASMaster the Tool at Hand: Deep familiarity with your current camera matters more than expensive upgrades, enabling you to capture amazing shots with whatever gear you have.Value the Power of Story: Photos that move people are about the emotion and story you communicate, not your camera settings or the latest features.Be Patient and Observant: Great photography requires patience and the ability to truly notice your surroundings and moments, not just technical skill or speed.Develop Your Creative Voice: Your unique style grows naturally from experimenting, introspection, and shooting often—not from copying others or chasing trends.Links and Resources:Listen to the full Photography Manifesto Episode, BPP 334Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook 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!

#377 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, host Raymond Hadfield interviews Huy Nguyen, a wedding photographer known for his unique and creative approach. They discuss the importance of focusing on specific aspects of photography as skills improve, capturing emotions in photos, and the creation of Fearless Photography as a destination for non-traditional photographers. The conversation applies to all aspects of photography, and aims to provide inspiration and practical advice to listeners. Listeners learn that mistakes are inevitable, but it's important to treat everything as a new beginning and focus on earning the trust of clients. Huy Nguyen shares his experience using candid photos and photojournalism to shoot weddings, and how his people skills were essential in earning trust.THE BIG IDEASValue Emotion Over Perfection: Capturing authentic, emotional moments will resonate deeper than simply creating technically “beautiful” images.Embrace Discomfort for Growth: Personal and artistic growth happens when you push past your comfort zone—step closer, get involved, and seek new perspectives.Consistency Isn’t Enough—Strive for Originality: Avoid repeating old habits; challenge yourself to make every photo session unique and meaningful.Build Trust and Presence: Great photos come from genuine trust and connection with your subjects—develop people skills to earn that access and capture intimacy.Links and ResourcesSee the work of some of the Best Documentary Wedding Photographers at Huy’s Fearless Photographers WebsiteJoin The Beginner Photography Podcast CommunitySign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries todayFree Lightroom Presets!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!

#376 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, guest Jim Nix, a landscape photographer and educator, shares his tips and tricks for landscape photography. HE discuss'es HDR photography, finding unique shots while exploring cities, and editing with tools like Luminar and split toning. Jim also shares his own learning journey, from being intimidated by photography to experimenting with different software and finding their own edit style. He emphasize the importance of experimentation, enjoying the process, and prioritizing photography in your life. Plus, listeners can snag free presets for Luminar and Lightroom. Tune in to learn how to take your landscape photography to the next level!THE BIG IDEASPrioritize Experimentation: Frequent creative and technical experimentation accelerates growth and helps you discover your style—don’t fear mistakes, they’re vital stepping stones.Focus on Finding Joy in the Process: Making yourself happy with your photos will keep your passion alive. Success follows genuine enjoyment, not merely technical perfection.Take Inspiration, Then Build Your Own Voice: Learning from others is great, but personal growth comes from adapting and eventually developing your own signature approach.Make Time for Photography: Don’t just wait for “free time;” intentionally create opportunities to shoot, even amid a busy schedule. Consistency is more important than convenience.Links and ResourcesLandscape Photographer Jim Nix Website Grab your free Luminar PresetsWatch Jim on YoutubeFollow Jim on InstagramFollow Jim on FacebookSign 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!

#375 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, you will learn about the different metering modes for reading and seeing light on a camera, and how to use LED colored lights to practice balancing exposure, tips for improving creativity through setting personal rules and turning photography into a game. In addition, you'll learn about using flash to enhance lighting and how to assess the condition of a used camera before purchasing. Lastly, I cover shooting outdoors with flash, using ND filters, and shooting at high shutter speeds to combat light. Tune in to improve your photography skills!THE BIG IDEASBe Intentional on Location: Slowing down, setting specific intentions, and focusing on one aspect at a time leads to deeper, more creative images.Build Confidence Through Practice: Direction and posing feel natural the more you practice; improvement and confidence come from repetition, not just research.Gear Doesn’t Define Creativity: Starting simple allows you to learn what matters to your photography before investing heavily—great photos depend on you, not your camera.Adapt and Experiment Fearlessly: Treating photography as a game helps you turn mistakes into learning opportunities, encouraging growth and experimentation with each session.Whenever you have a question about photography, day or night, 24 hours a day 7 days a week, head to https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa , and send me your questions.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!

#374 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, we chat with Megan DiPiero who discuss the challenges and opportunities that AI technology brings to the photography industry. She shares their experiences with integrating high-quality service brands and emphasizes the importance of providing an exceptional experience to clients. We also touch on the future of marketing, the challenges of attracting clients, and the value of authenticity and human service. Listen in to discover how to create a successful photography business in a changing industry!THE BIG IDEASService Over Price: Elevate your business by focusing on personalized client experiences and outstanding service, making you immune to the race-to-the-bottom pricing caused by AI automation.Perseverance Wins: Success requires repeatedly getting back up after setbacks; your determination to keep going is just as crucial as your photographic skill.Mindset Fuels Growth: Breaking through limiting beliefs about your market’s potential will help you discover new clients and higher-value opportunities, regardless of your location.Value Authenticity: Clients treasure real experiences and genuine connection—things AI cannot replicate—so build your brand around meaningful human interactions.Links and ResourcesMegan's Photography Coaching siteGrab a free copy of Megan's "She Sells" Audio bookBusiness of Photography Convention InfoSign 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!

#373 On this Community Spotlight episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, I chat with Sheila Bragg, an active member in the BPP community. Sheila shares her journey into photography and how she struggled with understanding aperture and shutter speed until discovering the podcast. Sheila also shares tips on lenses, finding inspiration, and understanding the exposure triangle. We discuss Sheila's ultimate goal of establishing herself as a photographer and traveling the world. Finally, the conversation shifts to framing, where I ask Sheila about the hardest aspect of composition for her. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, this episode offers valuable insights and tips to take your photography skills to the next level.Sheila Bragg grew up spending her summers in Ohio with her family's portrait studio where she developed a passion for photography. She always carried a camera with her and loved taking pictures of everything, but it wasn't until she found a podcast that explained aperture and shutter speed in a way that made sense to her that she started shooting manually. Now she can adjust her settings without looking at the camera and even experiments with underexposing her photos for a different effect. Although people always told her she should pursue photography, Sheila never took it seriously until she quit her degree program.THE BIG IDEASStart Where You Are: Your journey doesn’t need perfect conditions or fancy gear—embrace your current situation and grow from there.Learn by Doing: Progress comes from taking action, making mistakes, and learning from real-world experiences, not just theory.Comparison with Curiosity: View other photographers’ work as inspiration and guidance, not a competition; every image is a learning opportunity.Celebrate Growth: Focus on incremental improvement with each photo rather than perfection, and acknowledge your achievements along the way.Resources and LinksCheck out Sheila Bragg's WebsiteFollow Sheila on FacebookJoin The Beginner Photography Podcast CommunitySign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries todayFree Lightroom Presets!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!

#372 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, I speak with Mark Fox who shares his journey from humble beginnings to being a successful nature photographer, documenting the Amazon jungle. We talk about facing self-doubt in photography and how to overcome it, provide tips on planning photo trips, and emphasize the importance of personal development in photography. Mark also discusses indigenous communities in the Amazon and the changes in their integration with society. Mark further talks about his own personal and professional struggles, from figuring out how much to charge as a photographer to battling imposter syndrome. Mark Fox is an avid nature enthusiast, spending his days capturing stunning photographs of wildlife. While it can be frustrating when animals do not show up at his designated spot, he loves the rewarding feeling of getting up close and personal with the creatures he photographs. Mark finds a sense of calm and connection with nature through his photography and loves learning more about the animals he interacts with.THE BIG IDEASPassion Fuels Progress: Let your love for your subject (nature, people, or place) drive you to learn more, stay persistent, and keep refining your craft.Connection Over Perfection: Focus on genuinely connecting with your subjects or scenes; honest engagement creates meaningful, memorable images—perfection is not the goal.Growth Requires Self-Critique: Embrace self-evaluation and constructive comparison. Use each shoot as an opportunity to learn, improve, and recognize your creative progress.Purpose Elevates Photography: When your camera serves a bigger cause—storytelling, conservation, or cultural documentation—your work gains impact and value beyond aesthetics.Links and ResourcesAmazonian Documentary Photographer Mark Fox's WebsiteFollow Mark on InstagramJoin The Beginner Photography Podcast CommunitySign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries todayFree Lightroom Presets!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!