The Beginner Photography Podcast

#548 Dave Mihaly is a passionate advocate of film photography who shares his journey of transforming personal loss into a therapeutic creative outlet. He recounts experiencing a turning point in 2000 following his mother's death, which highlighted for him the importance of photographing loved ones and turned photography into a personal therapy. Despite starting with analog film photography during an era when digital was emerging, Dave explains how the tactile nature and the anticipation of film photography continue to captivate him. KEY TOPICS COVEREDTherapeutic Role of Photography - Dave shares how photography became a means to cope with grief, helping him process emotions and find a creative outlet during difficult times.From Grief to Passion - Dave's initial drive to capture family memories evolves into an artistic passion fueled by the characteristics and challenges of film photography.Embracing Accessibility in Photography - Dave advocates for an enjoyable and accessible approach to photography, favoring spontaneity and creativity over technical perfection.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSFilm Photography: A process that involves capturing images using a camera with film rather than a digital sensor; Dave appreciates it for its tactile nature and unique aesthetic. Zone Focus: A technique used with cameras that have no autofocus capability, requiring the photographer to manually estimate the focus distance.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can photography serve as a therapeutic tool in dealing with personal loss or trauma?What are the pros and cons of film versus digital photography in your personal experience or observation?RESOURCES:Follow Dave Mihaly on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theoldcameraguy/Check out The Old Camera Guy on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@theoldcameraguySign 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!

#547 Nick Church is a UK-based wedding photographer who transitioned from a full-time career in the software industry to photography within 24 months. The central theme revolves around Nick's journey from picking up a camera for the first time in 2014 to becoming a professional photographer. Key learning objectives include understanding the steps involved in transitioning to a photography career, leveraging multiple photography niches for financial stability, and effective marketing strategies for acquiring clients. KEY TOPICS COVEREDTransition from Software Industry to Photography - Nick shares how his background in physics and art facilitated his understanding of photography fundamentals. He emphasizes the importance of a deep dive into learning photography and the role of creativity and passion in pursuing this new career.Marketing and Business Strategy - Nick highlights his strategy of utilizing Facebook advertising as a primary marketing tool for attracting clients and replacing his previous income. His approach involves targeted ads to engage potential clients within a specific demographic, maximizing return on investment.Workflow and Organization Techniques - Nick discusses using workflow management systems to organize client interactions and projects effectively. He introduces the concept of Kanban for prioritizing tasks, ensuring efficient use of time and resources.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSKanban: A task management system that helps prioritize and streamline workflow for increased productivity and efficiency in business operations.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow does Nick’s approach to learning photography through doing rather than reading formal books resonate with different learning styles?In what ways can Nick's marketing strategies be adapted to other forms of photography beyond weddings?Reflect on the challenges associated with transitioning to a full-time photography career and how proper planning can mitigate these challenges.RESOURCES:Visit Nick Church's Website - https://www.nickchurchphotography.co.uk/Follow Nick Church on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nickchurchphotography/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!

#546 Richard Brodowski is member of the Beginner Photography Podcast Community and innovative equestrian and portrait photographer who shares how he transitioned from taking photos at his daughter's barn to mastering equestrian portraits. He began his photography path in April 2021, initially purchasing a camera for filming barbecue videos for a YouTube channel. However, his interests shifted towards equestrian photography as he began capturing images during his daughter's horseback riding lessons. Richard shares his learning experience, from being voluntold to take portraits at a barn to experimenting with equipment and techniques.KEY TOPICS COVEREDGetting Started in Photography - Richard recounts his initial motivation for purchasing a camera, which evolved from a focus on video to a passion for equestrian photography during his daughter's lessons. Key takeaways include the importance of experimentation and being open to new opportunities.Learning Equestrian Photography - Richard discusses the nuances of equestrian photography, covering technical aspects like focal lengths and equipment, as well as learning to pose subjects around horses safely. He highlights his journey of gaining confidence and skills through research and practice.Community and Continuous Learning - Richard emphasizes the role of community in developing his skills. Participation in local photo meetups allowed him to interact with other photographers and models, fostering a supportive environment that facilitated learning and experimentation.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSCommunity in Photography: Involvement in groups that enhance learning, skill-sharing, and collaboration among photographers.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can community involvement enhance your learning in photography?What are the challenges and rewards of transitioning from hobby photography to professional portrait sessions?RESOURCES:Visit Richard Brodowski's Website - https://www.barn33photography.com/Follow Richard Brodowski on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/barn33photography/Check out "Set a Light 3D" (for lighting setups) - https://www.elixxier.com/en/set-a-light-3d/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!

#545 Gina Milicia is a seasoned celebrity portrait and lifestyle photographer from Australia. With over 25 years of experience in the field, Gina shares insights into her journey from aspiring sculptor to a celebrated photographer. The episode primarily focuses on the unglamorous realities of a photographer's life, the intricacies of photography, and the art of capturing authentic portraits.KEY TOPICS COVEREDGetting Started in Photography - Gina shares how her journey began with a love for art and evolved into photography when she got exposed to a world of fashion and celebrity photography. Despite lacking technical expertise at first, her determination and hard work paved the way for her successful career.The Realities of Professional Photography - Raymond and Gina discuss the perceived glamour of being a professional photographer, while highlighting the actual pressures and challenges, such as the demanding schedules, fleeting shoot opportunities, and the need to establish a quick rapport with subjects.Techniques for Capturing Authentic Portraits - Gina provides tactical advice on how to make subjects comfortable during a shoot. From using storytelling to relax them to utilizing technical skills like shooting tethered and having backup plans, Gina dives into both the art and science of creating timeless images.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSShooting Tethered: The practice of connecting the camera directly to a computer to view images in real-time, aiding in immediate feedback and adjustments.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can photographers balance the technical and creative aspects of photography to enhance their skills?In what ways can understanding a subject's background and personality improve their portraiture?How do the pressures faced by professional photographers compare to other creative professions?RESOURCES: Listen to So You Want to Be a Photographer Podcast 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!

#544 Angela Shae is a Wedding photographer turned social media expert. She discusses her early interest in photography, the pressure she felt to pursue a more traditional career, and her eventual decision to follow her passion. She candidly reflects on the difficulties she faced due to lacking technical knowledge initially and the pivotal moments that led her to mastery and success in the industry. The conversation delves into her transition from photography to creating "Social Templates," her innovative solution for helping photographers manage social media more efficiently while reflecting on the balance between personal life and professional pursuits.KEY TOPICS COVEREDAngela's Journey into Photography - Angela describes her spontaneous decision to pursue photography over a traditional career in the medical field. She outlines the challenges of initially lacking technical skills and how mentorship and practical experience helped her overcome this.Navigating Parenthood and Professional Life - Angela shares her struggle to balance being a young mother of two while maintaining a thriving photography business, highlighting the pressures and strategies she employed to manage both roles.Social Media Strategy and Reels - The episode culminates in Angela detailing her creation of "Social Templates" to assist photographers in navigating social media trends, particularly focusing on the value of Instagram Reels for reaching a broader audience.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSSocial Templates: A tool created by Angela to streamline the process of creating engaging social media content, particularly Instagram Reels, ensuring photographers can maintain a consistent online presence.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can photographers find a balance between following their passion and meeting practical life obligations?What are the potential pitfalls of turning a passion into a profession, and how can one mitigate them?In what ways can social media tools like Social Templates help streamline photographers' marketing efforts?RESOURCES:Grab a free month of Social Templates with Code BPP - https://beginnerphotopod.com/reelsFollow Angela Shae on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/angelashae_/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!

#543 Louis Stevenson is a photographer based in Washington State. Louis shares his journey in photography, which began in his childhood when his father introduced him to shooting with point-and-shoot cameras and later SLR film cameras. His renewed enthusiasm for photography was sparked by capturing the solar eclipse with his phone, which led him to pursue it more seriously. The conversation dives into the transition from shooting as a hobby to taking it professionally, with a unique focus on race photography and youth sports. KEY TOPICS COVEREDDiscovering Photography - Louis recounts his early experiences with photography, highlighting the influence of his father's documentation habits and his own desire to capture moments for personal memory and storytelling.Pursuing Photography as a Passion and Profession - The conversation outlines Louis's transition from hobbyist to enthusiast, notably after the solar eclipse event, pushing him to acquire a better understanding of photographic techniques and equipment.Action Sports Photography Techniques - Louis and Raymond discuss the intricacies involved in photographing dynamic subjects such as motorcycles and youth sports, emphasizing the importance of context, capturing action, and the technical aspects of utilizing shutter speed and autofocus efficiently.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSExposure Triangle: The relationship between ISO, aperture, and shutter speed in achieving the correct exposure.Documenting Action: The importance of providing context and capturing dynamic moments to convey the intensity and story of sports events.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow does your personal interest or hobbies influence your approach to photography?What steps can you take to understand and master the exposure triangle effectively?How can experimenting with camera angles and dutch tilts enhance the storytelling in your photography?RESOURCES:Visit Louis Stevenson's Website - https://stevensonfoto.com/Follow Louis Stevenson on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stevensonfoto/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!

#542 Lindsay Coulter is a seasoned photographer with over a decade of experience. The episode explores Lindsay's journey from a university student studying geography to a flourishing photography career. Lindsay shares personal stories, starting with being introduced to photography by her now-husband, Taylor Jackson. The conversation highlights the importance of personal well-being, sustainable business practices, and maintaining a balance between personal and professional life. KEY TOPICS COVEREDTransition to Photography - Lindsay discusses her unexpected journey into photography, which began through a chance encounter with her now-husband. Key takeaways include the importance of seizing unexpected opportunities and the benefits of learning from seasoned professionals.Building a Sustainable Business - Major points include the significance of setting boundaries, managing workload, and revisiting business models regularly for sustainability. Lindsay stresses the need to balance personal life with career demands.Client Experience and Service - Insights include improving client satisfaction by revamping the client experience. Real-world examples include updating delivery timelines and ensuring customer service is at the forefront of business operations.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSAperture Priority: A camera mode that allows photographers to set specific aperture values while the camera selects the shutter speed, aiding beginners in focusing on composition.Sustainable Business Practices: Approaches that ensure long-term business viability while balancing work and personal life, as discussed by Lindsay when setting limits on wedding bookings.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can photographers balance personal well-being with business demands?What are the benefits of setting clear boundaries in both personal and professional contexts?How does focusing on client experience impact long-term business success?RESOURCES:Visit Lindsay Coulter's Website - https://www.lindsaycoulterphoto.com/Follow Lindsay Coulter on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lcoulterphoto/Check out Lindsay Coulter's Course - https://www.betterthanbooked.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!

#541 Erika Greco is a passionate amateur photographer from Charleston, South Carolina. Erika shares her unique journey into photography, which began in a magnet high school for the arts and evolved alongside her professional career in theater. A central theme in her story is the decision to keep photography as a creative outlet rather than a business, an approach that aligns with her desire to serve and connect with her community.KEY TOPICS COVEREDJourney into Photography - Erika shares how her high school exposure to photography sparked a lifelong passion, illustrating the importance of exploring different artistic mediums.Photography as Art vs. Business - Erika discusses her struggles with the pressure to monetize photography and her conscious decision to maintain it as a hobby, offering a perspective on the value of art for self-expression.Overcoming Technical Challenges - Erika elaborates on her transition from film to digital photography and how she navigated the technical challenges she encountered, providing insights into the learning process.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSVergleichungsspiel: The concept of the "comparison game," highlighting the issues of self-doubt and standards in creative fields.Photography for Service: Using photography to connect with others and support community needs, showcasing its role beyond personal artistic expression.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can photographers balance the pressure to monetize their skills with their passion for the craft?In what ways can photography serve as a tool for community engagement and service?RESOURCES:Follow Erika Greco on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erikadgreco/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!

#540 Photo Q&AIn Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I answer a variety of listener-submitted questions about photography. The episode covers key aspects of wedding photography, editing workflows, equipment considerations, camera settings, lighting setups for studios, the impact of personal experiences on photography, and more. KEY TOPICS COVEREDWedding Photography Tips:Explanation: Raymond discusses key considerations for first-time wedding photographers, such as the importance of following the bride and groom, capturing candid moments, and understanding the significance of a wedding day.Key Takeaways: Focus on enhancing the memory of the wedding day rather than capturing every detail, and consider renting essential equipment like a second camera body for reliability and insurance.Editing Workflow Optimization:Explanation: The episode shares strategies for effectively selecting and editing photos, emphasizing the significance of choosing the right moments.Key Takeaways: Utilize tools like Imagine for AI-assisted culling and prioritize personal artistry in photo selection.Studio Lighting Setup:Explanation: Raymond introduces the concept of a three-point lighting setup for studio photography, highlighting the use of key lights, fill lights, and backlights for creating dynamic portraits.Real-World Examples: He provides practical advice on equipment choices and configurations for achieving professional lighting effects indoors.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSThree-Point Lighting Setup: A lighting method involving a key light, fill light, and backlight to create depth and separation in portraits.Culling: The process of selecting the best photos from a shoot, which can be optimized using AI tools like Imagine.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow do you approach capturing key moments in high-pressure scenarios like weddings?In what ways can personal experiences shape a photographer's artistic style and subject matter?RESOURCES:Check out Imagen AI - https://imagen-ai.com/Get Your Reusable Silica Gel Packets - https://amzn.to/3WVAnUwSign 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!

#539 In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Bryan Caporicci, a seasoned wedding photographer who blends business acumen with artistic passion. Bryan shares insights into navigating the photography landscape by focusing on foundational skills, emphasizing patience, and finding personal joy in photography. He highlights the importance of technical mastery before creative exploration and the value of building meaningful connections.THE BIG IDEAS Master the Basics: Understand your camera settings thoroughly before diving into complex photography scenarios. A solid foundation sets the stage for creativity. Practice Under Pressure: Learn to operate your camera instinctively in high-pressure situations. This skill is invaluable, particularly in fast-paced environments like weddings.Slow Down for Success: Embrace a patient approach to photography and avoid rushing through your learning process. Long-term success is built gradually.Embrace Creativity: Once technical mastery is second nature, focus on capturing moments, emotions, and stories that resonate and tell a unique narrative.PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLANEnhance Technical Confidence: Spend an hour each day practicing different camera settings until they become second nature. Conduct small self-assigned projects focusing on low-light and fast-paced scenarios.Develop Real-World Experience: Volunteer as a second shooter for a local event photographer to gain experience. Shadow a professional to learn the dynamics of different shoot environments. Build a Portfolio of Experiences: Select 5 personal favorite photos that highlight varied skills like lighting, composition, and emotion. Create a physical or digital album and update it monthly to track progress.Connect with Professional Circles: Attend local photography meet-ups to network and seek mentorship. Practice engaging with other photographers through collaborative projects or photo walks.Explore Personal Creativity: Dedicate time each week to a creative project that pushes your boundaries. Experiment with different genres of photography to discover new inspirations.RESOURCES:Visit Bryan Caporicci's Website - https://www.bcapphoto.com/Follow Bryan Caporicci on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bcapphoto/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!