The Beginner Photography Podcast

#387 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, the host discusses several insightful lessons from experienced photographers. They touch upon the importance of valuing oneself and developing a unique style in a saturated market. Additionally, the experts emphasize the significance of technical skills, experimenting with techniques and trusting oneself to create a personal brand in photography. The discussion also covers key topics such as handling light, connecting with clients, and the power of storytelling. Tune in to hear valuable insights and advice from the experts on growing in your craft and in your business.THE BIG IDEASTrust Your Unique Vision: Your personal style and point of view are your greatest assets. Embrace what makes your perspective different and pursue it with confidence.Be Persistent and Stay Open to Growth: Both your style and skills will evolve—continue learning, experimenting, and adapting rather than clinging to trends or getting discouraged by setbacks.Tell Stories That Matter: Strong photographs share authentic stories. Focus on images that carry emotional weight or meaning for you and your audience, not just technical perfection.Intention Over Imitation: Instead of following the crowd, be deliberate in what you create and share. Authenticity and clarity in your work stand out in a saturated space.Links and ResourcesFull Interview with Seth MirandaFull Interview with Seth BrownFull Interview with Mary Fisk-Taylor Full Interview with Pierre LambertFull Interview with Cris DuncanFull Interview with Jenny SteinSign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries todayFree Lightroom Presets!Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with Raymond! Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#386 In this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast we explore Photography Manifesto Rule #6 - If There Is No Intention, There Is No Image. I talk about the importance of being intentional in your photography, the role of composition in directing focus, how to effectively utilize different lighting techniques, the power of creating moments to create amazing images, and the potential for transformation in your photography journey.THE BIG IDEASIntention Sets Images Apart: Snapshots capture a scene, but intentional photos communicate meaning or emotion. Your purposeful mindset is the first step toward creating images that resonate.You Control the Story: Thoughtful choices—what to include, exclude, or emphasize—shape how viewers experience your photographs. Every decision matters in telling the story you envision.Growth Comes from Deliberate Practice: You don't need to know everything to progress. Focus on learning what helps you achieve your vision and dedicate time to hands-on, intentional practice.Gear Isn’t Your Limitation: Your creativity and intentional use of tools matter more than camera specs. It's how you choose and use your equipment that makes the difference.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! Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#385 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, the speaker talks about the importance of posing in photography. As someone who used to be a model, the speaker has a unique perspective on what goes into helping a subject pose and feel comfortable in front of the camera. From giving moods and vibes to showing the subject the photo on camera to make adjustments, there are numerous techniques that can lead to the perfect shot. The episode also features an interview with fashion photographer Tori Wright, who provides insights on how to work with models. The importance of communication, preparing models, and the type of shots to take are just some of the key takeaways from the episode. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned photographer, there's a wealth of information on how to master the art of posing. Tori Wright is a model who loves to have a clear idea of the photo shoots she's going to be a part of. It's important for her to see what creative vision her photographers have in mind so she can be prepared. She once made a casual joke about doing a photo shoot with a friend, which turned into a reality as they embraced the idea. Tori understands that planning and communication are key in making a successful shoot happen.THE BIG IDEASPreparation Builds Trust: Clearly communicating your ideas and expectations before a shoot ensures everyone arrives confident, comfortable, and ready to collaborate.Focus on the Model’s Needs: Great photographers consider what will benefit their subject’s portfolio or experience—not just their own creative ambitions.Comfort Sparks Creativity: Creating a relaxed, supportive environment helps your subject feel at ease, resulting in more natural and engaging photos.Learn from Both Sides: Understanding the experiences of both photographer and model leads to more empathetic direction and ultimately stronger creative outcomes.Links and ResourcesSt Louis Headshot Photographer Tori Wright’s WebsiteFind Tori on InstagramSign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries todayFree Lightroom Presets!Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with Raymond! Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#384 Vanessa Joy is a successful photographer who understands the importance of humility and learning from others. Despite her talent and accomplishments, she still feels a bit of jealousy and impostor syndrome when looking at the work of other photographers. However, rather than letting these feelings hold her back, Vanessa takes them as a sign that she needs to push herself further and improve her skills. She sees giving credit where it's due as a way to reset her mind and keep herself from becoming complacent. Vanessa Joy is a true inspiration for anyone who wants to excel in photography.In this episode we delve into the subject of staying power and how to maintain a long-lasting career in photography. THE BIG IDEASRecognize Setbacks as Growth Opportunities: Feeling burnout or jealousy is normal—use it as motivation to improve and not as a reason to stop.Balance Trends with Personal Style: It’s okay to try new styles, but staying true to your unique photographic voice leads to longevity, not just popularity.Learn Through Observation: Don’t just pose; watch and connect with your subjects for genuinely expressive images.Build Relationships for Success: Prioritizing relationships with clients and vendors is more sustainable for your photography career than focusing solely on traditional marketing.Resources:Austin Wedding Photographer Vanessa Joys websiteFollow Vanessa Joy on InstagramGrab Vanessas Free Posing GuideGrab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with Raymond! Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#383 Not thoughts about cars... I have plenty of those too but this is Thought while IN the Car. In this episode from my car, I encourage you to be yourself and create unique images through consistent practice and shooting. Here are three key takeaways from the episode:- Consuming advice doesn't equal success.  Each photographer has a unique voice, copying doesn't create the same result. The artist behind the work matters most. Take uninterrupted time to explore your thoughts and implement what works for you- Gain tools and experiences from productivity and entrepreneurship resources, but implement them in a way that works for you rather than hoping for a life-changing solution.- Your unique perspective and style, not the camera or settings used, determine the outcome of an image. Just like successful writers have their own style and voice, successful artists are defined by themselves.Links and ResourcesJoin The Beginner Photography Podcast CommunitySign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries todayFree Lightroom Presets!Connect with Raymond! Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#382 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, I bring on wildlife and landscape photographer Rylan Meadows. We discuss Rylan's journey into photography, covering a range of topics from animal behavior to camera equipment. The conversation delves into how Rylan developed his post-processing style, the importance of understanding light, and the challenges of shooting animals and landscapes. Rylan also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of upgrading camera equipment and the importance of composition in photography. Listeners will learn about Rylan's passion for photography and pick up tips and tricks for capturing stunning wildlife and landscape images.THE BIG IDEASMake Your Own Mark: Even in popular spots, your point of view matters—your style and feelings create images that can’t be duplicated.Shoot for Fulfillment, Not Approval: The most rewarding photos are those that bring you satisfaction, regardless of external expectations or social pressures.Embrace the Value of Patience: Waiting for the right moment, whether for wildlife or lighting, is essential to capturing meaningful photographs.Learn by Doing and Observing: Experimentation and intentional study of your subjects, both human and wild, lead to personal growth and photographic improvement.Links and ResourcesRylans Landscape and Wildlife WebsiteRylans Photo Book on AmazonWatch Rylan on YoutubeGrab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with Raymond! Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#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.Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with Raymond! Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group 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"Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with Raymond! Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group 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!Grab your free 52 Lightroom Presets athttp://freephotographypresets.com/Connect with Raymond! Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group 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! Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!