Podcasts Posts - The Beginner Photography Podcast

#595 In today’s episode of the podcast I share a simple, recipe-inspired approach to mastering manual camera settings. You’ll understand ISO, aperture, and shutter speed from a fresh, food-themed perspective, so you can finally create photos with confidence, not confusion.Ultimate Photography Education Bundle: Step-by-step online photography course — https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundleWhat You’ll Learn:The exposure triangle (ISO, aperture, shutter speed) controls photo brightness and artistic style.Each element is connected, and changes in one require thoughtful adjustments to the others.Mistakes are part of the learning process—experimenting and “tasting” your results is essential.Practical, easy-to-remember ISO settings based on different lighting scenarios are provided, along with advice on aperture and shutter speed choices.Discussion & Reflection QuestionsHow does thinking of camera settings as ingredients in a recipe affect your approach to shooting in manual?Which setting (ISO, aperture, or shutter

#594 In this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, we explore the fundamental role that light plays in photography. Enroll in the Ultimate Photography Education Bundle Today - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle The learning objectives are clear: listeners should be able to identify and observe how light intensity, direction, color temperature (white balance), and the shape of light (hard vs. soft) influence the mood, feel, and technical quality of their images. Raymond emphasizes that no amount of gear or editing can substitute for a keen awareness of light. He encourages photographers to practice seeing and understanding light even without a camera, and to apply these lessons intentionally in their photography.Key Topics Covered:Element 1 - Intensity of Light:Raymond explains how the brightness of light affects both exposure and the emotional impact of a photo. He gives examples of how harsh midday sun creates energetic, high-contrast scenes, while softer light (such as shade or overcast) leads to mo

#593 In this month’s Q&A episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, we answer questions that span both technical and philosophical aspects of photography. The conversation centers around real-world challenges for beginners – such as gear selection, repair decisions, getting comfortable with taking photos of strangers, and figuring out what to do with all the photos taken. A key theme in the episode is demystifying the necessity (or lack thereof) of expensive equipment, highlighting practical approaches, and encouraging photographers to focus on skills and intent over gear.The learning objectives are to help new photographers make confident choices regarding camera bodies and lenses, to understand essential photography concepts like crop sensor vs. full frame, and to gain practical strategies for the creative and ethical dilemmas commonly faced in daily shooting. Core takeaways include: moment and storytelling trump equipment price; knowing your camera, settings, and practicing in diverse scenarios is mo

#592 In today’s episode, we’re exploring how to rediscover the fun in photography at any skill level, with creative tips and hands-on strategies to keep your passion alive!Photography can sometimes feel overwhelming—too many buttons, confusing settings, and the pressure to get everything perfect can zap the fun right out of it. If you’ve ever felt bogged down or like photography is turning into work instead of play, you’re not alone. Today’s conversation is here to help you shake off that stress and bring back the joy that made you pick up your camera in the first place. Together, we’ll explore new ways to simplify your process, experiment fearlessly, and enjoy your growth as a photographer, no matter what camera you use.Keep Photography Simple and Playful: Bring back the joy by using straightforward gear or even your phone, focusing less on technical perfection and more on spontaneous moments.Choose a point-and-shoot camera or a simple camera app like Huji.Go out and snap photos just for the experience, not

#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 st

#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

#589 Nick Church is a seasoned wedding and commercial photographer, educator, and the founder of the Nick Church Creative Academy. With nearly a decade of professional experience, Nick has become recognized for both his creative eye and his commitment to helping other photographers grow in their craft. Having transitioned from the software industry to full-time photography, he brings a unique blend of business acumen and technical expertise to the table.KEY TOPICS COVEREDEvolving Creativity and Staying Motivated in Wedding Photography - Nick explains how shooting countless weddings can make the experience feel routine, but emphasizes the necessity of finding fresh creative approaches and engaging in personal projects for artistic fulfillment. Changing locations, experimenting with new techniques, and even switching camera systems (like using Fujifilm for personal work) can reignite passion and broaden skills.Seven Foundational Rules for Photographers - Nick outlines crucial “rules” every photographer should k

#590 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

#588 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 inclu

#586 In Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I answer the questions that matter most to photography beginners and enthusiasts who are eager to grow both technically and creatively.This episode is all about addressing real-world challenges that come up when you’re starting or growing a photography practice. I share my personal experiences, insights, and favorite tips—especially about balancing a day job with a budding side hustle in photography. I open up about my own journey of building a wedding photography business and the practical strategies I used to manage my time, keep clients happy, and avoid burnout.KEY TOPICS COVEREDStarting a Photography Side Hustle & Workflow Automation - Raymond shares his early struggles balancing a day job with building a portrait and wedding photography business. He highlights the time-saving power of using tools like CloudSpot Studio for automating bookings, contracts, invoicing, and client communication. Key takeaway: automation prevents lost opportunities a

#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

#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 Raym

#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 disa

#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 Comparis

#581 Shane Balkowitsch is a dedicated wet plate collodion photographer whose passion for history, authenticity, and the human experience shapes both his artwork and his views on the future of photography. In this episode, Shane shares the journey that led him from having no experience with a camera to mastering one of photography’s oldest analog processes—a craft involving silver on glass that dates back to 1851. He highlights how the permanence and tangible nature of wet plate images, created through capturing real light and human presence, starkly contrast with the ephemeral, intangible nature of digital and AI-generated images.KEY TOPICS COVEREDDefining Photography in the Age of AI - Shane and Raymond dissect the core of what makes an image a "photograph," highlighting the necessity of light, a subject, and a photosensitive medium or sensor. They underscore the risk of confusing AI-based image generation—which lacks these elements—with authentic photography, causing potential chaos in art, media,

#580 In Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I tackle listener-submitted questions for our monthly Photo Q&A session. We cover a variety of challenges that many beginner photographers run into—from understanding the difference between RAW and JPEG files, managing noise in corporate event shots, to building a strong portfolio through strategic “model calls.” I’ll also share practical insights on why your photos might look different across devices or editing programs, when to use settings like aperture priority or manual mode, and how to set up and communicate a successful portfolio shoot. Plus, we’ll get into deeper topics like how to price your work as a new photographer and whether AI editing tools are changing the value of getting things right in-camera. KEY TOPICS COVEREDRAW vs. JPEG & Display Differences - Raymond explains why photos often appear different on camera screens or phones compared to Lightroom. He outlines the technical reasons, including how cameras display a JPEG preview

#579 Zenia Monteagudo is an experienced music and event photographer who has recently begun exploring family portraiture. Zenia shares her personalized journey into photography, starting from her early fascination with disposable and point-and-shoot cameras to a pivotal moment when she purchased a Sony camera on clearance at Target. This chance purchase set her on an unexpected path, leading to opportunities in music photography, including shooting concerts at iconic venues like Red Rocks.KEY TOPICS COVEREDStarting a Photography Journey & Building Confidence - Zenia’s chance transition from hobbyist to semi-professional highlights the role of curiosity and saying "yes" to new experiences, even without a portfolio. Building confidence can be a struggle, but validation from others—such as bands requesting to use her photos—provided the encouragement to pursue her passion professionally.Concert Photography: Skills, Challenges, and Opportunities - Zenia offers a frank look at shooting concerts, from

#578 In this episode of the podcast, I deliver a thoughtful exploration into the emotional and psychological aspects that underlie the pursuit of photography. I dissect the difference between being infatuated with photography—often characterized by a focus on gear, novelty, and aesthetics (“lust”)—and a mature, enduring engagement with the craft, marked by sustained commitment and personal growth (“love”). Throughout the episode, I draw parallels between our relationships with people and with photography, making the argument that both require effort, patience, and vulnerability for genuine fulfillment. KEY TOPICS COVEREDLust vs Love in Photography - Raymond defines “lust” as the excitement for gear, newness, and surface-level satisfaction (like shooting shallow depth-of-field because you can), and contrasts this with “love,” which involves accepting photography’s frustrations, dedicating time to growth, and valuing the process.Overcoming Frustration and the Importance of Perseverance - The episode examines ho

#577 Shane Wilkie is a community member who has made impressive strides in sports, event, and commercial photography since his last appearance. The discussion centers around building confidence as a photographer, the evolution of photographic style, and how personal projects can drive both skill and personal growth. He discusses his experiences building a portfolio, including how trading photography for accommodations with Airbnb hosts opened doors to paid commercial work. Shane also delves into tackling nerves while photographing people, the differences between event and action sports photography, and how personal projects—particularly those connected to his personal history—help him process and express complex emotions.KEY TOPICS COVEREDBuilding Confidence and Portfolio Through Experience and Trade - Shane explains his strategy for gaining experience—offering his photography services to Airbnb hosts and local businesses in exchange for accommodations or meals. This approach allowed him to experiment with st

#576 Taylor Isselhard is a full-time wedding photographer and the host of the Wedding Lens Lounge podcast. As a professional who successfully transitioned from part-time to full-time photography, Taylor offers an in-depth perspective on the critical steps required for building a sustainable photography business.A significant theme in his career is the disciplined approach to business growth. Relying on his background in business, Taylor underscores the importance of thorough preparation before leaving stable employment. This includes maintaining a clear understanding of financial needs, forecasting bookings, setting aside an emergency fund, and only making the leap once the business demonstrates consistent demand and stability.KEY TOPICS COVEREDTransitioning to Full-Time Photography - Taylor describes how he built up his business gradually, shooting weddings part-time for six years and only going full-time once he reached a threshold of consistent bookings and had established key systems and savings.The Power