BPP 366: Steve Rolfe: Tiny Tales and Big Imagination: A Unique Way to Photograph Life On The Street

In this episode, Urban Street Photographer Steve Rolfe he was inspired by a book of Street Photography, which provided the fuel for his creativity.. He explains how, with his own figures, he began to capture stories of the world around him. Finally, after having some of his work published, he decided to leave his job in 2014 and go professional. Host Raymond Hatfield also talks about what captivates him in certain stories or series within photography.

Steve Rolfe has been a professional photographer since 2014, when he took a leap of faith and left his 22-year-long job in the civil service. His journey to success began when he picked up a book of street photography and was captivated by the images. Steve then purchased a bridge camera and began experimenting with creating miniature architectural figures, which were eventually published in magazines and newspapers. He continues to use this creative process in his work as a professional photographer.

The Big Ideas with Timestamps:

• 00:01:06 Capture stories in tiny ways.

• 00:07:13 Capture life in photos.

• 00:13:09 Planning and whimsy in photos.

• 00:19:08 Planning and creativity required.

• 00:26:05 Keep it simple and creative.

• 00:37:47 Creativity needs time and space.

• 00:40:59 Stay the course for success.

• 00:49:13 Print photos to experience them.

• 00:50:18 Deepen your photography knowledge.

Resources:

• Urban Street Photographer Steve Rolfe’s website

• Follow Steve on Instagram

• Buy Steve’s new book - “Small World”

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

Capture stories in a unique way.

The power of photography is undeniable. It has the ability to capture stories in a unique way and communicate them to the world. One way to do this is through urban street photography. By capturing images of everyday life, photographers can tell stories that are often overlooked.

Steve Rolf is one such photographer. He has been using photography to capture stories in a very creative way. He takes tiny figurines of people and places them on the street with normal street debris to create fascinating visual stories. He believes that art is subjective, but as long as the photographer is happy with what they are creating, that is all that matters.

Rolf was inspired by a book of street photography he picked up in 2010. The images captivated him and he decided to try his hand at it. He started using his wife’s bridge camera and soon found himself creating his own unique images. He was also inspired by a TV series called Land of Giants, which he watched in the 90s. This series gave him the idea to create his own little world with figurines.

Rolf has been taking photographs professionally since 2014 and he has had his work published in magazines and newspapers. His work is unique and captivating, and it has the power to tell stories that are often overlooked. He believes that it is not necessarily one image that is going to stand out, but rather the body of work as a whole that is so interesting.

Rolf’s work proves that photography is a powerful tool for storytelling. By capturing images of everyday life, photographers can tell stories in a unique way. Whether it is a series of images of what someone ate in a year, or a selfie taken every day for 10, 15, or 20 years, photography has the power to communicate stories that are often overlooked.

Capture life in public spaces.

Rolf’s work, in particular, focuses on capturing life in public spaces. He uses small railway figures to create scenarios that are often humorous, thoughtful, or strange. One of his most unique images was a prison break scene, which he created by placing the figures at the bottom of a prison wall. He also captures images of people in urban settings, such as burnt-out cars or children playing on them.

Photographers like Rolf are able to capture life in public spaces in a way that is unobtrusive. By not having a camera to their face, they are able to take candid images without drawing attention to themselves. This allows them to capture moments that would otherwise go unnoticed.

Rolf’s work is a reminder that photography can be used to capture life in a way that is both creative and meaningful. By focusing on capturing life in public spaces, photographers are able to tell stories that are often overlooked. It is a powerful tool for storytelling and a reminder that photography can be used to capture life in a unique and meaningful way.

Planning and whimsy in street photography.

Rolf’s work is a perfect example of how street photography can be used to capture both planning and whimsy. His work combines both of these elements in a way that makes it both meaningful and creative. He uses both planning and whimsy to create images that are both meaningful and creative.

When it comes to planning, Rolf uses his knowledge of photography and the environment to create images that are both meaningful and creative. He looks for the light, uses street signs, captures reflections and shots windows, and looks for the opposition and light. He also looks for specific subjects, such as people with red coats or buses.

However, Rolf also uses whimsy in his work. He uses tiny figures to create scenes that are both creative and meaningful. For example, he uses a tiny figure to pick up gurkins from the ground, which is a reminder that most people take the mic and don’t care about the environment. He also uses a tiny figure to explore a half-eaten Mars bar, which is a reminder that exploration doesn’t have to be limited to space.

Rolf’s work is a reminder that street photography can be used to capture both planning and whimsy. By combining these two elements, photographers are able to create images that are both meaningful and creative. Rolf’s work is a reminder that photography can be used to capture life in a unique and meaningful way.

Planning required for creative photos.

Rolf’s work is a testament to the amount of planning and preparation required for creative photography. Rolf explains that each photo requires a certain amount of planning and preparation, and that he often has to source props and locations in order to create the perfect image. He also explains that he often has to walk around with a Mars bar in his pocket for a few weeks in order to find the perfect location. This shows that creative photography requires a great deal of planning and preparation.

Rolf also explains that he often has to create scenarios in order to capture the perfect image. He explains that he was able to create the image of a celebrity in the Australian jungle by sourcing a replacement beer can and using his little people as police officers. This shows that even the simplest images require a great deal of planning and preparation.

Rolf’s work is a reminder that creative photography requires a great deal of planning and preparation. By taking the time to source props, locations, and scenarios, photographers are able to create images that are both meaningful and creative. Rolf’s work is a testament to the power of creative photography and the amount of planning and preparation required to capture the perfect image.

Keep it simple and creative.

In his podcast, Rolf discusses the importance of keeping images simple and creative. He explains that when there are too many elements in an image, it can become muddled and lose its impact. He also explains that it can be difficult to know when a story is strong enough to be told through a single image. Rolf emphasizes the importance of trial and error in order to find the right balance between simplicity and creativity.

Rolf also explains the importance of getting feedback from others. He shares that he often shows his work to his wife in order to get her input. This is a great reminder that creativity is subjective and that getting feedback from others can be a great way to ensure that your images are both creative and meaningful.

Overall, Rolf’s podcast is a great reminder of the importance of keeping it simple and creative when it comes to photography. By taking the time to plan and prepare, photographers are able to create images that are both meaningful and creative. Additionally, getting feedback from others can be a great way to ensure that your images are both creative and meaningful.

Creativity needs exploration.

Creativity needs exploration. It is often said that creativity is the result of experimentation and exploration. This is true when it comes to photography. Taking the time to explore different angles, subject matter, and techniques can help photographers create unique and interesting images. Additionally, exploring different locations can help photographers create images that are meaningful and that capture the beauty of the world around them.

Exploration is also important when it comes to finding new ideas and inspiration. Taking the time to look at different images, and to talk to other photographers, can help photographers find new ideas and inspiration. Additionally, exploring different techniques and processes can help photographers create images that are both meaningful and creative.

Finally, exploration is important when it comes to creating a body of work. Taking the time to look through your images and to determine what is missing can help photographers create a cohesive body of work. Additionally, exploring different techniques and images can help photographers create images that are both creative and meaningful.

In conclusion, creativity needs exploration. Taking the time to explore different angles, subject matter, and techniques can help photographers create unique and meaningful images. Additionally, exploring different locations, ideas, and techniques can help photographers create a cohesive body of work. Finally, exploring different processes and images can help photographers create images that are both creative and meaningful.

Perseverance pays off in the end.

The idea of perseverance is something that is often overlooked in the creative process. However, perseverance is a key factor in the success of any creative project. This is especially true for photographers, who often have to work for years to create a body of work that is both meaningful and unique. This was the case for photographer, James Dyer, who worked for two years to create a book of his own images.

The process of creating a book of his own images was a long and arduous one. He faced many obstacles, including the pressure of deadlines, the need to explore new ideas and techniques, and the uncertainty of whether the book would ever be released. Despite these challenges, James persevered and eventually released the book.

This story is a testament to the power of perseverance. It is a reminder that, if we stay the course and keep working hard, our efforts will eventually pay off. This is especially true when it comes to creative projects, as the creative process is often a long and winding road. James' story is a reminder that, if we keep striving and never give up, our efforts will eventually be rewarded.

Print photos to experience them.

The story of Steve Rolf and his photography project is a perfect example of this. Steve created a series of images over a 10 year period, and eventually he was able to turn his work into a book. This is a reminder that, if we keep pushing and never give up, we can achieve great things.

But this story is also a reminder that, if we want to truly experience our work, we should print our photos. Steve was able to really appreciate his work when he was able to hold it in his hands in the form of a book. This is a reminder that, if we want to truly appreciate our work, we should print our photos.

Printing photos is a great way to experience them. Digital photos are great, but when we print them, they take on a whole new life. We can appreciate the details, the colors, and the texture of the photo in a way that we can't when it is just on a computer screen.

In conclusion, Steve's story is a reminder that, if we keep pushing and never give up, our efforts will eventually be rewarded. It is also a reminder that, if we want to truly experience our work, we should print our photos. Printing photos is a great way to experience them, as it allows us to appreciate the details, the colors, and the texture of the photo in a way that we can't when it is just on a computer screen.

Listen to deeper conversations.

Listening to deeper conversations is essential for any photographer, regardless of their level. It is a great way to gain insight into the industry and to learn from experienced professionals. By engaging in conversations with experienced photographers, we can gain valuable knowledge and insight into the craft that can help us to become better photographers.

Having conversations with photographers from different backgrounds can also help us to gain a better understanding of different techniques and approaches. It can also help us to gain a better understanding of the industry itself and to learn about the different challenges and opportunities that exist within it.

Finally, having conversations with photographers from different backgrounds can also help us to build relationships with other photographers and to become part of a larger creative community. By engaging in conversations with other photographers, we can learn from each other, share our experiences, and grow together.

In short, listening to deeper conversations is an essential part of becoming a better photographer. By engaging in conversations with experienced professionals, we can gain valuable insight into the industry and learn from each other. Ultimately, listening to deeper conversations can help us to become better photographers and to become part of a larger creative community.

BPP 364: Amanda Thomas - Be Empowered with Light: Craft Empowering Feminine Fashion Photography

On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, host Raymond Hadfield interviews fashion and lifestyle photographer Amanda Thomas. They discuss Amanda's journey into photography, her use of unconventional lighting techniques, and the importance of emotional engagement in photography. Amanda also shares tips on collaboration and preparation for shoots, drawing from her experience with editorial and fashion shoots. Additionally, she talks about starting with just one light and using it creatively to achieve unique and beautiful results. The episode also includes Amanda's perspective on the value of experimentation in photography and the importance of building relationships in the industry.

Amanda Thomas is a photographer and visual artist who was inspired to pursue her passion from a young age. As a teenager, she went with her father to a photographer's studio to get his promo shots done, and was captivated by the electric atmosphere of the studio and the tools of the trade. This was the moment that changed her life, and she knew she wanted to explore the potential of the medium. She has since gone on to pursue a career in photography and visual art, creating stunning and captivating works of art.

Big Ideas With Timestamps:

• 00:03:03 Light is magical and transformative.

• 00:10:00 Capture light to create art.

• 00:18:26 Client approval is key.

• 00:22:06 Expect the unexpected.

• 00:25:19 Be flexible and prepared.

• 00:34:45 Persist with lighting skills.

• 00:41:16 Experiment with lighting to find style.

• 00:48:59 Mentally and emotionally prepare.

• 00:53:17 Collaborate for success.

• 00:54:54 Shoot more to get better.

Resources:

• Fashion and Lifestyle Photographer Amanda Thomas’s website

• Follow Amanda On Instagram

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

Explore the possibilities of light.

Light is one of the most important elements of photography, and it can be used to create stunning images with amazing results. Light can be used to create soft yet powerful portraits, as well as to create a mood or atmosphere. By understanding how to use light effectively, photographers can explore the possibilities of light to create beautiful, unique images.

Light can be used to create a variety of different effects. By using the right angle and direction of light, photographers can create a soft and subtle look, or a dramatic and powerful look. Light can be used to create a mood, such as a romantic or mysterious atmosphere. Additionally, light can be used to create an interesting composition or to emphasize certain elements of a scene.

Light can be manipulated in a variety of ways to achieve the desired effect. Photographers can use reflectors or soft boxes to shape and direct the light. They can also use gels or filters to change the color of the light, or to create a more dramatic light. Additionally, photographers can use strip lights to create interesting and unique lighting effects.

When creating a portrait, light is one of the most important elements. By using a single light source, photographers can create a soft yet powerful portrait. By using the strip lights vertically or horizontally, they can create a unique look. Additionally, they can use a reflector or a soft box to create a softer look.

Light can also be used to create a mood or atmosphere. By using the right angle and direction of light, photographers can create a mysterious or romantic atmosphere. Additionally, they can use gels or filters to create a dramatic or unusual atmosphere.

By understanding the possibilities of light, photographers can create beautiful and unique images. Light can be used to create soft yet powerful portraits, or to create a mood or atmosphere. Additionally, light can be manipulated in a variety of ways to achieve the desired effect. By exploring the possibilities of light, photographers can create stunning images with amazing results.

Capture light to create art.

At its core, photography is the art of capturing light. Photographers use their cameras to capture the light that is reflecting off of a subject. Light is essential to photography because it is the source of the image. Without light, there would be no image. Different types of light can be used to create different effects. Natural light is the most common type of light used in photography. Natural light is soft and flattering, and it is often used to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. On the other hand, artificial light can be used to create a more dramatic effect. Artificial light can be used to create shadows and highlights, or to create a more dramatic atmosphere.

When taking photographs, it is important to understand the different types of light and how they can be used to create different effects. Different types of light can be used to create different moods and atmospheres. For example, a soft, natural light can be used to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while a bright, artificial light can be used to create a more dramatic effect. Additionally, light can be manipulated in a variety of ways to achieve the desired effect. For example, light can be diffused or reflected to create a softer effect, or it can be focused to create a more intense effect. Furthermore, light can be used to create shadows and highlights, or to create a more dramatic atmosphere.

The possibilities of light are endless and can be used to create stunning images. By understanding the possibilities of light, photographers can create beautiful and unique images. By exploring the possibilities of light, photographers can create stunning images with amazing results. Light is an essential part of photography, and by understanding the possibilities of light, photographers can create beautiful and unique images.

Client approval is key.

When it comes to fashion and editorial photography, understanding the possibilities of light is essential. Photographers need to understand the nuances of light and how to use it to create the desired effect for their images. As a photographer, it is important to understand the nuances of light and how to use it to create the desired effect for the images.

In fashion and editorial photography, client approval is key. Photographers must understand the client’s vision and create images that meet their expectations. Photographers must also understand the nuances of light and how to use it to create the desired effect for the images. Understanding the nuances of light is essential for fashion and editorial photography.

When planning a fashion or editorial shoot, planning ahead is essential. Photographers need to plan ahead and ensure that they have the right equipment and the right team. Planning ahead allows photographers to create the best images possible and meet the client’s expectations. Planning ahead also allows photographers to create the best images possible and meet the client’s expectations.

When it comes to fashion and editorial photography, client approval is key. Photographers must understand the client’s vision and create images that meet their expectations. Planning ahead is essential for fashion and editorial photography, as it allows photographers to create the best images possible and meet the client’s expectations. Understanding the nuances of light is also essential for fashion and editorial photography, as it allows photographers to create stunning images with amazing results. By understanding the possibilities of light, photographers can create beautiful and unique images.

Expect something to go wrong.

Despite the importance of planning, it is also important to expect something to go wrong. While planning ahead is essential for fashion and editorial photography, it is also important to be prepared for any issues that may arise. Photographers should plan for any potential technical problems, such as software issues or equipment malfunctions, and be ready to think on their feet and adjust accordingly. Additionally, photographers should be prepared for any unforeseen issues with the garments, such as ripped pieces or missing accessories. By expecting something to go wrong, photographers can be better prepared to handle any issues that may arise during the shoot.

Planning ahead is essential for fashion and editorial photography, but it is also important to expect something to go wrong. Photographers should plan for any potential technical problems and be ready to think on their feet and adjust accordingly. Additionally, photographers should be prepared for any unforeseen issues with the garments, such as ripped pieces or missing accessories. By expecting something to go wrong, photographers can be better prepared to handle any issues that may arise during the shoot. By doing so, photographers can create beautiful and unique images that meet the client’s expectations.

Be flexible and prepared.

Flexibility is also key when it comes to fashion and editorial photography. As a photographer, you may be asked to replicate a pose that was used in a previous shoot, but on the day of the shoot, the conditions may not be favorable for the pose. In this case, the photographer must be able to think on their feet and come up with a creative solution. Additionally, the photographer must be able to adjust to any changes or requests from the client. It is important to remain level-headed and professional, even in the most stressful of situations. By staying professional, photographers can ensure that they will be asked to work on future projects.

In conclusion, fashion and editorial photography require a great deal of preparation and flexibility. Photographers must be prepared for any technical issues and be ready to think on their feet in order to adjust to any changes or requests from the client. Additionally, photographers must remain professional and courteous at all times in order to ensure future projects. By being prepared and flexible, photographers can create beautiful and unique images that meet the client’s expectations.

Persist with one light.

One of the most important elements of fashion and editorial photography is the use of light. Lighting can make or break a photo and can be used to create a certain mood or atmosphere. Professional photographer, Kate Hopewell-Smith, has mastered the art of using both natural and artificial light to create stunning images. She has learned the importance of using one light and how to make it work in any situation.

Kate believes that using one light is a skill that must be developed over time. She compares it to learning to drive a car, saying that it takes time to learn how to use the light correctly and to make it look natural. To help others learn this skill, she gave a talk at the photography show about using one light in three different ways. She also encourages others to persist with one light and to experiment with it in order to create unique and beautiful images.

Kate’s advice is invaluable for any photographer looking to improve their skills. By being persistent and experimenting with one light, photographers can create stunning images that will impress their clients. Additionally, they can learn how to use natural light to create unique and beautiful images that capture the mood and atmosphere of the scene. By being prepared and flexible, photographers can create beautiful and unique images that meet the client’s expectations.

Experiment with lighting creatively.

Experimenting with lighting creatively can be a daunting task for new photographers. It can be difficult to learn how to use a flash and to create a light that is pleasing to the eye. However, Kate recommends starting with an umbrella or a softbox. These modifiers can be used to create a soft light that is flattering for the subject. Additionally, by banking the light off of a wall, photographers can create a large soft box that will throw a unique light.

For photographers that are hesitant to experiment with light, Kate recommends taking the time to observe the light in different scenarios. By observing the way the sun hits an old stained glass window or how the light reflects off of a wall, photographers can gain inspiration for how to use light creatively. Additionally, Kate suggests starting with a white silk umbrella with a black lining. This will give photographers a crisp yet soft light that can be used in a variety of ways.

When experimenting with light, it is important to keep in mind that the goal is to create a unique look that will impress the client. It is easy to get carried away and create a look that is too extreme. To avoid this, Kate recommends writing down the lighting setup that is used so that it can be easily replicated in the future. Additionally, it is important to consult with the client before making any drastic changes to the lighting setup.

Experimenting with lighting creatively can be a challenging and rewarding experience for photographers. By being prepared, flexible, and creative, photographers can create stunning images that will impress their clients. Additionally, by observing the light in different scenarios, photographers can gain inspiration for how to use light creatively. With practice and patience, photographers can learn how to use light to create unique and beautiful images.

Prepare mentally and emotionally.

Preparing mentally and emotionally is an important part of creating stunning images with lighting. As Amanda Thomas, a professional photographer, explains, photographers must be prepared to take risks and experiment with lighting. They must also be willing to take bad photos in order to learn and grow. Additionally, photographers must be able to think quickly and adjust their lighting setup to fit the situation. By being prepared, photographers can adjust their lighting setup to create the desired effect and capture the emotion of the moment.

Furthermore, photographers must be flexible in order to use light creatively. They must be willing to try different techniques and adjust their lighting setup to fit the situation. Additionally, they must be willing to accept feedback from their clients and adjust their lighting setup accordingly. By being flexible, photographers can create unique and stunning images that capture the emotion of the moment.

Finally, photographers must be creative in order to use light creatively. They must be able to think outside the box and come up with unique ways to use light to create stunning images. Additionally, they must be able to use their imagination to create interesting and unique lighting setups. By being creative, photographers can create unique and beautiful images that capture the emotion of the moment.

In conclusion, preparing mentally and emotionally is an important part of creating stunning images with lighting. By being prepared, flexible, and creative, photographers can create unique and beautiful images that capture the emotion of the moment. With practice and patience, photographers can learn how to use light to create stunning images that will impress their clients.

Collaboration is key to success.

However, collaboration is also key to success. As Amanda Thomas said, “People want to help people they like”. Building relationships with models, brands, and other professionals is essential to being successful in the photography industry. By collaborating with others, photographers can create unique and exciting images that will help them stand out. Working with others can also open up new opportunities for photographers, such as working with brands or becoming an ambassador for a company.

Ultimately, collaboration is essential for success in the photography industry. By building relationships, photographers can create stunning images that will impress their clients and help them stand out. Additionally, collaborating with others can open up new opportunities and help photographers grow in their craft. Therefore, photographers should strive to collaborate with others in order to achieve success.

Shoot more for better photos.

However, the most important aspect of photography is practice. No matter how well a photographer is able to collaborate, if they don’t practice their craft, they won’t be able to create amazing images. This is why it is so important for photographers to shoot more for better photos.

Shooting more allows photographers to become more familiar with their camera and its settings. This gives them the ability to capture stunning images without having to worry about their camera’s settings. Additionally, it gives them the opportunity to experiment with different lighting and angles to create unique images.

Practice also allows photographers to become more comfortable with the editing process. With practice, photographers can learn how to use editing software to enhance their images and create stunning works of art. Additionally, they can learn how to use different filters and effects to give their images a unique look.

Finally, shooting more helps photographers become more confident in their abilities. When they have more experience, they can take on more challenging projects and create stunning images that will impress their clients. This confidence can also help them to stand out from other photographers and make them more attractive to potential clients.

In conclusion, shooting more is essential for photographers who want to become successful. It helps them become more familiar with their camera and its settings, become comfortable with the editing process, and become more confident in their abilities. Therefore, photographers should strive to shoot more for better photos.

BPP 362: Casey Fatchett - Unhappily Ever After - Tips on How To Be A BAD Wedding Photographer

In today's episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, Casey Fatchett shares tips on how to be a bad wedding photographer. He talks about some of his own photography mistakes, such as his flash going out mid-wedding and his camera dying the day before a wedding he was scheduled to shoot. He also offers advice on what photographers can do to ruin a couple's wedding day.

Casey Fatchett hosts The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, an informative, entertaining, and irreverent look at the photo industry. Casey brings his more than twenty years of professional photography experience, primarily as a wedding photographer, to every episode.

In addition to photographing nearly 800 weddings, Casey's subjects also include Hall of Fame athletes, Oscar winning actors, and platinum selling recording artists. His work has appeared in more than 100 publications, including The New York Times, New York Magazine, Rangefinder, Professional Photographers of America, and more.

Casey is lactose intolerant, loves talking about himself in the third person, and can be found making his wife laugh or hiking with his dog when not creating images for his clients.

The Big Ideas with TimeStamps

• 00:04:19 Don't buy new cameras before jobs.

• 00:06:39 Read the instructions carefully.

• 00:12:56 Don't leave cameras on side of road.

• 00:17:27 Bring two pairs of pants.

• 00:26:55 Bring backup gear.

• 00:33:46 Collaborate with clients expectations.

• 00:39:05 Manage expectations carefully.

• 00:40:25 Trust and collaborate with couples.

• 00:50:32 Know safety boundaries.

• 00:56:01 Lighting is key for photography.

• 00:59:11 Avoid chasing trends.

• 01:07:26 Practice with limitations.

• 01:08:36 Limit yourself to create better.

• 01:16:36 Invest in quality lenses.

• 01:20:15 Light is essential for good photos.

• 01:30:45 Don't block the photographer.

• 01:32:08 Capture key moments quickly.

• 01:41:12 Deliver on promises as photographer.

• 01:42:16 Deliver on promises made.

• 01:47:28 Under-promise, over-deliver.

• 01:53:37 Practice and research techniques.

Resources:

• Listen to the Nerdy Photographer Podcast

• New York Wedding Photographer Casey Fatchett’s website

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

Test new gear before shooting.

When it comes to photography, having the right gear is essential. But it's not just about having the right gear, it's also about making sure that your gear is in top condition and ready to go when you need it. This is something that wedding photographer Casey Fagget knows all too well.

In a recent podcast episode, Casey shared some of his worst wedding experiences as a photographer, and in both cases, his gear was the issue. In one instance, his flash died in the middle of a wedding and he didn't have a backup. In another, his camera died the day before a wedding. In both cases, his lack of preparation was the root cause of the problem.

The lesson here is clear: test your gear before shooting. Whether you're a professional photographer or an amateur enthusiast, it's important to take the time to make sure that all of your gear is working properly and that you have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. This may mean setting up a test shoot to make sure your camera and lenses are working as expected, or it may mean having a spare camera body or flash on hand in case of emergency.

No matter what kind of photography you do, taking the time to test your gear before shooting will pay off in the long run. Not only will you have the peace of mind knowing that you have the right gear and that it's in top condition, but you'll also be able to capture the perfect shot without any unexpected hiccups. So the next time you're about to go out and shoot, make sure you take the time to test your gear and make sure it's ready for action.

Read the manual first.

But what about reading the manual first? Many photographers don't take the time to read the manual before shooting, and this can lead to problems. Not only do you risk not knowing how to use your gear properly, but you can also miss out on features or settings that could make a huge difference in your photos.

Take the example of the podcast transcript: the photographer was having difficulty figuring out how to switch the camera to video mode and change the resolution. If they had taken the time to read the manual first, they would have known exactly where to find the settings they needed.

Reading the manual first can also be a great way to get used to a new piece of gear. With any new camera or flash, there can be a learning curve as you get used to the menus and settings. Taking the time to read the manual first can make this learning curve much easier and faster. Not only will you be able to find the settings you need quickly, but you'll also learn about any new features or settings that could help you take better photos.

In short, taking the time to read the manual before shooting can save you time and help you take better photos. Not only will you know exactly how to use your gear, but you'll also be able to take advantage of any new features or settings that you may have otherwise missed. So the next time you're about to go out and shoot, make sure you take the time to read the manual first.

Don't rely on Kickstarter projects.

Unfortunately, the same can not be said for Kickstarter projects. Kickstarter is a great platform for entrepreneurs to get their ideas off the ground, but unfortunately, it can also be a breeding ground for scams. This was the case for one photographer who invested in a Kickstarter project that promised a 500GB solid state drive with a built-in SD card reader. The project was fully funded, but the company never delivered, and the photographer never saw their money again.

This is a cautionary tale for anyone considering investing in a Kickstarter project. It’s important to do your research and make sure the project is legitimate before investing your money. Read reviews, check out the team behind the project, and make sure there is a plan for delivering the product. If the project has already been funded, make sure there are regular updates from the company so you can track progress.

Ultimately, Kickstarter projects can be a great way to support new ideas and products, but it’s important to be careful and do your due diligence before investing. Don’t rely on Kickstarter projects blindly. Take the time to do your research and make sure the project is legitimate and has a plan for delivery.

Bring an extra pair of pants.

When it comes to attending a wedding, one of the best pieces of advice I can give is to always bring an extra pair of pants. I learned this lesson the hard way when I attended a wedding a few years ago. I was feeling quite ill, and as soon as I was done being violently sick, the bride knocked on the door to use the bathroom. Unfortunately, Bollywood's don't smell very well and it was quite a bad experience for both of us.

I was in a bit of a panic, not knowing what to do for the rest of the wedding. Luckily, there was a gas station right across the street, so I ran over there and bought some Tylenol, ibuprofen, and pepto-bismol. After taking all three, I felt much better and the sickness only lasted about 30 minutes.

This experience taught me a valuable lesson: always bring an extra pair of pants to a wedding. I had heard this advice before, but it wasn't until this experience that I truly understood why it was so important. People can rip their pants or stain them, or in my case, have a sudden illness. It's always better to be prepared for any potential mishaps.

Since then, I have been a wedding photographer for over 20 years. I started out taking photos with a film camera at my friends' weddings, and eventually started my own photography business. I always make sure to bring an extra pair of pants, just in case.

I also host a podcast called The Nerdy Photographer, where I talk to other photographers about running a successful business. I think it's important for creatives to focus on the business aspect of their work, and I try to make it entertaining and informative.

So, if you're attending a wedding, make sure to bring an extra pair of pants. You never know what might happen!

Bring backup gear.

The same can be said for wedding photographers. While it may seem like a burden to have multiple camera bodies and a lot of gear, it is absolutely necessary to have a backup. After all, you don't want to be stuck in a situation where you're forced to shoot with your phone.

I've seen countless horror stories online of photographers who didn't bring a backup and ended up having to rely on their phone. Not only is this embarrassing, but it also puts the quality of the photos at risk. It's understandable why some photographers might not want to invest in extra gear, but it's important to remember that cameras are expensive and it's worth it to have a backup.

Having a backup camera body is a must, but it's also a good idea to have redundant gear. This means having enough lenses that you can pick from if something were to happen. It's also important to have a UV filter for protection, as you never know when someone might bump into you and break your lens.

In conclusion, it's important for wedding photographers to bring backup gear. Not only will this help to protect your equipment, but it will also help to ensure that the quality of the photos you take is up to par. Investing in extra gear may seem like a burden, but it's worth it in the long run.

Collaborate with clients expectations.

As a wedding photographer, it's important to collaborate with clients' expectations. It's important to be open and honest about what can and cannot be accomplished. This means having conversations about what the couple wants and needs, and then helping them to determine if their expectations are realistic. At the same time, it's important to be honest and upfront about what you can and cannot do. This means that if a couple is asking for something that isn't feasible, it's important to let them know that it won't be possible.

When it comes to collaborating with clients' expectations, communication is key. As a wedding photographer, it's important to listen to what the couple is asking for and then work with them to determine a solution that works best for everyone. It's also important to be open to suggestions and feedback from the couple. This will help to ensure that the photos you take are the best they can be.

At the same time, it's important to be prepared for any unexpected events that may occur. This means having backup gear on hand in case something goes wrong. Having extra lenses, camera bodies, and other equipment can help to ensure that you can still capture the moments that the couple wants, even if something goes wrong.

Overall, it's important for wedding photographers to collaborate with clients' expectations. This means having honest conversations with the couple about what can and cannot be done, being open to suggestions and feedback, and being prepared for any unexpected events. By taking these steps, wedding photographers can ensure that they are able to capture the moments that the couple wants and provide them with the best possible experience.

Manage expectations effectively.

When it comes to managing expectations, it's important for wedding photographers to understand what the couple is looking for. This means asking the right questions and listening to their responses. By having an open dialogue with the couple, photographers can better understand what the couple wants and how they can make their style work with their vision. This also allows photographers to provide suggestions and advice that can help the couple achieve their desired outcome.

It's also important for wedding photographers to be aware of the amount of time that they have to work with. This includes taking into account any unexpected events that may occur, such as a bridesmaid wanting to do a Vogue shoot. In this situation, the photographer should be honest and explain why they don't have the gear or personnel to do so. This helps the couple understand the limitations of the photographer and sets realistic expectations.

Finally, it's important for wedding photographers to remember that they are there to support the wedding and not take over. This means avoiding the temptation to impose their own artistic vision onto the couple and instead, focus on finding ways to express the couple's personality and uniqueness. By doing so, photographers can ensure that the photos are truly reflective of the couple and their special day.

In conclusion, managing expectations effectively is an important part of being a wedding photographer. By understanding the couple's vision, being aware of time constraints, and avoiding imposing their own ideas, photographers can ensure that they are able to capture the moments that the couple wants and provide them with the best possible experience.

Trust the photographer.

Trust is a key factor when it comes to wedding photography. Couples must trust their photographer to capture the moments that they want and to be aware of the time constraints that are often associated with city weddings. They must also trust that the photographer will not impose their own ideas and will instead work to create a personalized experience that reflects the couple's vision.

When couples trust their photographer, they can relax and enjoy their special day knowing that their photographer is working hard to capture the moments that they want. Trusting the photographer also allows couples to be more open to suggestions and to collaborate with them to create a vision that is unique and special to them.

In order to build trust, it is important for photographers to be honest and transparent with their couples. They should be willing to discuss their ideas and be open to feedback. They should also be aware of the time constraints associated with city weddings and be able to communicate this to the couple in order to make sure that they are able to capture the moments that are important to them.

It is also important for photographers to be flexible and willing to adjust their plans based on the couple's needs. They should be able to provide guidance and advice without imposing their own ideas and should be willing to work with the couple to create a vision that is unique to them.

Ultimately, trust is essential when it comes to wedding photography. Without it, couples can find themselves feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. By understanding the couple's vision, being aware of time constraints, and avoiding imposing their own ideas, photographers can ensure that they are able to capture the moments that the couple wants and provide them with the best possible experience.

Know your limits and safety.

However, it is also important for photographers to know their limits and safety. While it is important to collaborate with the couple and make sure that their vision is fulfilled, it is also important to make sure that the couple is not taking risks that could endanger their safety or the photographer's. In the podcast, the speaker talks about a time when a couple wanted to do a sword fight in the middle of the first dance. While this could have been an exciting moment to capture, it could have also been dangerous. The photographer had to step in and explain why this was not a good idea.

In addition, it is important for photographers to be aware of their own skills and knowledge. If they are not sure about something, they should not be afraid to ask questions or research the topic. As the speaker mentions, they had to research and ask questions when a couple asked them to take pictures while skydiving. They had to be aware of their own limits and make sure that they were able to safely take the photos that the couple wanted.

Ultimately, it is important for photographers to be confident in their abilities and be aware of their own limits and safety. While it is important to collaborate with the couple and make sure that their vision is fulfilled, it is also important to make sure that the couple is not taking risks that could endanger their safety or the photographer's. By understanding the couple's vision, being aware of time constraints, and avoiding imposing their own ideas, photographers can ensure that they are able to capture the moments that the couple wants and provide them with the best possible experience.

LED lights not as powerful.

One of the most common mistakes made by photographers is using LED lights as their sole source of light throughout a wedding. While LED lights are relatively easy and cheap to access, they are not as powerful as a regular speed light, meaning that they are not suitable for use as a primary source of light. LED lights are usually used for TikToks, Instagram reels, and other forms of video, but they are not powerful enough to capture a wedding. Furthermore, LED lights do not cast light very far, meaning that they are not as effective at capturing a large area.

The inverse square law is an important concept to understand when it comes to lighting. This law states that the power of light decreases as the distance between the light and the subject increases. This means that LED lights can only be used for a short distance, and are not suitable for capturing a large area.

In conclusion, LED lights are not suitable for use as a primary source of light for a wedding. Not only are they not powerful enough to capture a wedding, but they also do not cast light far enough to capture a large area. Photographers should be aware of the limitations of LED lights and use other sources of light, such as a regular speed light, for their wedding photography. By understanding the limitations of LED lights and using other sources of light, photographers can ensure that they are able to capture the moments that the couple wants and provide them with the best possible experience.

Avoid trendy photos.

When it comes to wedding photography, it is important to avoid trendy photos. While trends can be popular and can even get photographers more attention, they can also be very dated and not timeless. It is important for photographers to create photos that will stand the test of time and that will not look dated in the future.

One way to avoid trendy photos is to focus on capturing the moment as it happened. By doing this, photographers can create photos that are timeless and that will not look dated in the future. It is also important for photographers to create their own editing style and presets that are not too removed from reality. This will help to ensure that the photos look natural and that they are not too heavily edited.

Another way to avoid trendy photos is to not chase every trend that comes along. It is important to use trends in a balanced way and to make sure that they are not the primary focus of the photos. Photographers should also be aware of what is popular in the industry and should be careful not to fall into the trap of following every trend.

Finally, photographers should be aware of what the couples want and should strive to create photos that are timeless and that will not look dated in the future. By understanding the couple’s vision and creating photos that will stand the test of time, photographers can ensure that their clients will be happy with the results.

In conclusion, it is important for photographers to avoid trendy photos and to focus on creating timeless photos that will stand the test of time. By understanding the limitations of LED lights and using other sources of light, such as a regular speed light, photographers can ensure that they are able to capture the moments that the couple wants and provide them with the best possible experience. Furthermore, by creating their own editing style and presets and not chasing every trend that comes along, photographers can ensure that their photos are timeless and that they will not look dated in the future.

Test yourself outside.

One of the best ways to ensure that your photos are timeless is to test yourself outside. As a photographer, you need to understand the limitations of your gear and the lighting conditions that you will be working in. By going out and practicing with a specific lens and settings, you can learn how to work within those parameters and find the shots that will work best with the light that you have available. This will help you to become more creative and think outside the box when it comes to shooting.

For example, if you are shooting a wedding and you only have a 50mm lens, you can challenge yourself to find the shots that will work best with that lens and the light that you have available. This will help you to become more creative and come up with new ideas for shots that you may not have thought of before. Additionally, it will help you to become more comfortable with the gear that you have and the settings that you need to use in order to capture the moments that the couple wants.

Furthermore, testing yourself outside of the wedding day environment can help you to create your own style and presets. By experimenting with different settings, you can find the style that works best for you and your photography. This will help you to create a unique style and look that you can use for all of your photos, ensuring that your photos will stand out and be timeless.

In conclusion, testing yourself outside is an important part of becoming a successful photographer. By understanding the limitations of your gear and experimenting with different settings, you can create a unique style and look that will stand the test of time. Additionally, this will help you to become more comfortable with your gear and the settings that you need to use in order to capture the moments that the couple wants.

Limit yourself to create better work.

When it comes to photography, it is important to challenge yourself and push your boundaries in order to create better work. This doesn't always mean buying the latest and greatest gear, but rather taking the time to understand the limitations of your gear and experimenting with different settings. For example, limiting yourself to a certain number of exposures or a certain aperture can help you to become more creative with your shots and make sure that you are using the gear to its fullest potential. Additionally, this can help you to become more comfortable with your gear and the settings that you need to use in order to capture the moments that the couple wants.

Limiting yourself to create better work also means taking the time to go out and experiment. Taking the time to go out and practice on a monthly basis can help you to hone your skills and become more comfortable with your gear. Additionally, this can help you to become more creative with your shots and make sure that you are using the gear to its fullest potential. Additionally, by challenging yourself to take only 36 photos, you can make sure that you are getting the most out of each shot and that you are capturing the moments that the couple wants.

Overall, limiting yourself to create better work is an important part of becoming a successful photographer. By understanding the limitations of your gear and experimenting with different settings, you can create a unique style and look that will stand the test of time. Additionally, this will help you to become more comfortable with your gear and the settings that you need to use in order to capture the moments that the couple wants.

Invest in quality lenses.

One of the most important pieces of advice for any photographer is to invest in quality lenses. Quality lenses are more expensive, but they can make a huge difference in the quality of your images. Quality lenses will help you capture the sharpest images, with the best color and contrast. Quality lenses will also help you to create the most accurate depth of field, and will allow you to capture the most detailed images. Quality lenses will also allow you to capture images in low light situations, and can help you to create images with the least amount of noise.

When it comes to investing in quality lenses, it’s important to consider the type of photography that you do. If you do a lot of weddings, you may want to invest in a macro lens. Macro lenses are great for capturing close-up images, and can help you to capture the details of the wedding day. If you do a lot of portrait photography, you may want to invest in a lens with a longer focal length. This will help you to create images with a shallower depth of field, and will help you to create beautiful portraits.

It’s also important to consider the type of camera that you use. If you use a DSLR, you may want to invest in lenses that are compatible with your camera. If you use a mirrorless camera, you may want to invest in lenses that are specifically designed for that type of camera. Additionally, it’s important to consider the type of photography that you do. If you do a lot of landscape photography, you may want to invest in a wide-angle lens. If you do a lot of sports photography, you may want to invest in a telephoto lens.

Overall, investing in quality lenses is an important part of becoming a successful photographer. Quality lenses will help you to capture the sharpest images, with the best color and contrast. Quality lenses will also help you to create the most accurate depth of field, and will allow you to capture the most detailed images. Additionally, quality lenses will help you to capture images in low light situations, and can help you to create images with the least amount of noise. Investing in quality lenses is an important step in becoming a successful photographer, and will help you to create beautiful images that will stand the test of time.

Great light is essential for photos.

However, investing in quality lenses is not the only important factor in creating beautiful photos. Great light is just as essential. Without great light, you cannot create beautiful images, no matter how good your lenses are. As a wedding photographer, I have learned this firsthand. There was a series of billboards featuring photos taken on an iPhone, and they all had one consistent factor: fantastic lighting. This goes to show that no matter what camera you are using, great light is essential for a great photo.

When shooting a wedding, it is important to be mindful of the light. I always make sure to arrive at least half an hour early, so that I can scout the area and find the best light for the photos. It is also important to be respectful of the wedding party, and not to interrupt intimate moments between the couple. Additionally, I give guests a one minute window to take photos with their phones, so that the couple can remain focused on me and my instructions.

In conclusion, great light is essential for photos. Investing in quality lenses is important, but without great light, you cannot create beautiful images. As a wedding photographer, I have learned this lesson the hard way. I always make sure to arrive early, scout the area for the best light, and be respectful of the wedding party. With great light and quality lenses, you can create beautiful photos that will stand the test of time.

Don't block photographers' shots.

Unfortunately, there is one thing that can ruin a photographer’s shot: guests blocking the view. It is a common occurrence at weddings for guests to step in front of the photographer to take a picture with their phone. This is especially true during the ceremony, when the bride and groom are exchanging their vows. Guests, eager to capture the moment, will lean out into the aisle and take photos with their phones. This can be very distracting and can ruin the professional photo that the photographer was trying to take.

I have encountered this problem many times as a wedding photographer. I have seen guests lean out into the aisle during the ceremony to take photos with their phones. I have also seen guests take photos while standing directly in front of me. This can be very frustrating, as I am trying to capture the moment. In these situations, it is important to remain professional and courteous. I usually just ask the guest to move out of the way or to wait until I have taken the photo.

It is also important to remind guests to be mindful of photographers when taking photos. I have seen many guests take photos with their phones during the ceremony, and it can be very distracting. I always make sure to remind guests to be respectful of the photographer and to be mindful of their surroundings.

In conclusion, it is important to be mindful of photographers when taking photos. Guests should be aware of their surroundings and be respectful of the photographer. As a wedding photographer, it is important to remain professional and courteous in these situations. With great light, quality lenses, and respectful guests, you can create beautiful photos that will stand the test of time.

Capture key moments quickly.

Capturing key moments quickly is a skill that many wedding photographers strive for. It is important to be prepared for any situation and be ready to get the shot. This could include being prepared for the first kiss, cake cutting, or first dance. It is important to be aware of guests and their movements in order to capture these moments without interference.

At weddings, it is common for guests to want to take photos or videos of the couple. This can be distracting for the photographer and can cause them to miss key moments. It is important for the photographer to make it clear to guests that they should stay behind the photographer and not interfere with the shot. It is also important for the photographer to be aware of the DJ's announcements and be ready to capture the moment quickly.

In addition to being aware of guests, it is important for the photographer to have the right equipment. Having quality lenses and lighting is essential for capturing key moments quickly. It is also important to have two cameras ready with different lenses in order to capture different angles and compositions.

There are many different scenarios that can arise at a wedding, and it is important for the photographer to be prepared for any situation. It is important to be aware of guests and their movements, and be prepared with the right equipment and lighting. With these tools, you can capture key moments quickly and create beautiful photos that will stand the test of time.

Deliver on promises as photographer.

However, even with the best equipment and preparation, there is one thing that can ruin a wedding photographer’s reputation: not delivering on promises. This could be anything from not providing the quality of photos that were promised, to not delivering the photos on time. It is important for photographers to be honest and realistic about what they can offer, and to make sure that they are able to deliver on their promises.

The quality of photos is one of the most important aspects of a wedding photographer’s job. It is important to have the right equipment, such as a light field camera, and to have the right lighting. It is also important to have a good eye for composition and to be able to capture the right moment. If a photographer is not able to provide the quality of photos that they promised, then they are not delivering on their promises.

Another important aspect of delivering on promises is making sure that the photos are delivered on time. This is especially important for weddings, as couples will be eager to see the photos and share them with family and friends. It is important for photographers to make sure that they are able to meet their deadlines, as this can make or break a reputation.

A wedding photographer must be able to deliver on their promises if they want to be successful. This means providing quality photos and delivering them on time. It is important for photographers to be honest and realistic about what they can provide, and to make sure that they are able to deliver on their promises. By doing this, photographers can ensure that they will be able to provide beautiful photos that will stand the test of time.

Under-promise, over-deliver.

The story of the wedding photographer who became popular and then over-promised and under-delivered is a cautionary tale. He promised to take beautiful photos and was booked for 60 weddings in a two-year period. This was a recipe for disaster, as he was unable to scale up and deliver on his promises. He was also dishonest, telling one bride that he had never been to the venue before when he had already taken photos from another wedding there. This led to the bride not receiving any of the photos she was promised, including important photos of her father who had since passed away, and her brother who had walked her down the aisle.

It is important to remember that under-promising and over-delivering is the best way to ensure success as a wedding photographer. By being honest and realistic about what can be provided and delivering on those promises, photographers can ensure that they will be able to provide beautiful photos that will stand the test of time. This not only ensures that the couple will be happy, but also that the photographer will get a good reputation and will be able to continue to book weddings in the future.

Overall, it is important for photographers to remember that under-promising and over-delivering is the best way to ensure success. By being honest and realistic about what can be provided and delivering on those promises, photographers can ensure that they will be able to provide beautiful photos that will stand the test of time. This not only ensures that the couple will be happy, but also that the photographer will get a good reputation and will be able to continue to book weddings in the future.

Underpromise, overdeliver.

The podcast discussed how it is important to manage expectations when it comes to the number of photos that can be delivered. It is important to let the couple know how many photos they can expect and to be realistic about the time it will take to get them. This can be especially difficult for new photographers who are still learning the ropes. It is important to start out with a lower number of photos and work your way up as you gain experience. This will also help to manage expectations and make sure that the couple is happy with the results.

The podcast also discussed the importance of being realistic about the types of photos that can be taken. For example, it is important to let the couple know that composite photos take a lot of time and may not be possible on the wedding day. It is important to be honest about what can be provided and not make promises that cannot be kept. It is also important to be aware of the lighting in a venue and make sure that the photos can be taken in the time available.

In conclusion, under-promising and over-delivering is the best way to ensure success as a photographer. By being honest and realistic about what can be provided, photographers can ensure that they will be able to provide beautiful photos that will stand the test of time. This not only ensures that the couple will be happy, but also that the photographer will get a good reputation and will be able to continue to book weddings in the future.

Practice and research first.

Practicing and researching first is key to becoming a successful photographer. As Casey F of the Nerdy Photographer Podcast said, it is important to practice and know exactly what you are getting into before taking on a job. It is also important to research the venue to ensure that the photos will turn out well. By doing this, a photographer can ensure that they will be able to provide beautiful photos that will stand the test of time.

When taking on a job, it is important to not promise anything that cannot be delivered. It is better to not tell the couple that a certain shot can be done until the photographer has tried it out first. If it does not turn out well, they can simply not show the couple the photo. This not only ensures that the couple will be happy, but also that the photographer will get a good reputation and will be able to continue to book weddings in the future.

Engagement sessions are a great way to practice and get comfortable with the lighting that will be used for the wedding. It is also a great way to get to know the couple and make sure that the photographer and the couple are a good fit. By doing this, the photographer can ensure that they will be able to provide beautiful photos that will stand the test of time.

Overall, practice and research are essential for any photographer. By being honest and realistic about what can be provided, photographers can ensure that they will be able to provide beautiful photos that will stand the test of time. This not only ensures that the couple will be happy, but also that the photographer will get a good reputation and will be able to continue to book weddings in the future.

BPP 360: Manifesto Pt3 - Moment Matters Most, Not Camera Settings

On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, we continue the ten-part Photography Manifesto series by tackling the third rule:
Moment matters most in photography, not camera settings.
I encourage you to focus on capturing life's moments and define a moment as subject matter, timing, and composition. I also share the 3 step process to capturing better moments. I provides examples of moments and emphasizes that photography should capture life as it happens.

The Big Ideas with Timestamps

• 00:04:16 Learn to use the tool.

• 00:06:43 Capture life's moments.

• 00:17:41 Capture meaningful moments.

• 00:22:44 Pre-visualize before shooting.

• 00:29:09 Capture energy in moments.

• 00:33:09 Capture moments, not settings.

Resources:

• Listen to the full Photography Manifesto Episode, BPP 334

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

Learn to use tools.

Learning to use tools is a crucial part of any creative endeavor. Whether it's cooking, photography, or any other form of art, mastering the tools of the trade is essential for producing quality results.

In photography, the tools of the trade are the camera and its settings. Many aspiring photographers make the mistake of believing that the camera and its settings are the most important elements of photography. They spend countless hours researching and purchasing the latest and greatest camera equipment, only to find that their photos still don’t look as good as they had hoped.

It is at this point that a major decision must be made. Do they give up and relegate their camera equipment to a dusty corner of the closet, never to be seen again? Or do they realize that they have a problem that they are unaware of and seek out the answer?

The answer, of course, is to master the tools of the trade. Just like a chef must learn the ins and outs of their kitchen range before they can start cooking, a photographer must learn the ins and outs of their camera before they can start taking great photos. This involves learning about manual mode, aperture, shutter speed, ISO, white balance, and more.

Once a photographer has mastered the tools of the trade, they can start to focus on the real art of photography – capturing moments. A great photograph is not just about the camera settings or the gear used, but rather the moment that is captured. A great photograph will evoke emotion and tell a story, and that can only be done by capturing the right moment.

Learning to use the tools of the trade is a necessary step in any creative endeavor, but it is only the first step. Once the tools have been mastered, the real art of photography can begin.

Capture life's moments.

This is the concept of “moment”. Moment is the combination of subject matter, timing, and composition. It is the momentary capture of life, the capture of a single moment in time that can be remembered forever. Moment is not just about action, but also about the atmosphere and environment. It is the red of the morning sunlight, the forced composition of a person walking along a path, the moss covered tree, the dynamic sky, the blue tin roof that stands out, the sun on the opposite side of the airplane window, the messy kitchen table after a Thanksgiving meal, and so much more.

Moment is the art of capturing life. It is the art of capturing the beauty of the mundane and the extraordinary. It is the art of capturing the moments that make up life. It is the art of capturing the emotion of a moment and the memories that come with it.

Moment is about making decisions to create a better moment. It is about waiting for the right moment and being able to recognize it when it arrives. It is about being able to look at a scene and compose it in a way that captures the essence of the moment. It is about being able to recognize the beauty in the mundane and the extraordinary and to capture it in a single frame.

Moment is the art of capturing life. It is the art of capturing the moments that make up life and the memories that come with them. It is the art of recognizing the beauty in the mundane and the extraordinary and being able to capture it in a single frame. It is the art of making decisions to create a better moment and being able to recognize it when it arrives. Moment is the art of capturing life’s moments.

Capture meaningful moments.

When it comes to capturing meaningful moments, it is important to recognize the importance of the moment. It is important to recognize that the moment can be fleeting and that it can easily be lost if not captured. It is important to recognize the moment for what it is and to make sure that the moment is captured in the best way possible. This means taking into consideration the time of day, the time of year, and the environment in which the moment is being captured. It also means taking into consideration the camera settings and the composition of the photo. All of these factors can help to make sure that the moment is captured in the best way possible.

In addition to recognizing the importance of the moment, it is also important to recognize the importance of the camera settings. Camera settings are the foundation of a great photo and can be used to take the story deeper. They can help to emphasize the busyness of a park, or make a distracting background element disappear. They can also be used to exaggerate a moment, such as making it appear as if a child is zooming by at 100 miles an hour.

Ultimately, capturing meaningful moments is an art form. It is an art form that requires knowledge, skill, and practice. It is an art form that requires the photographer to be present in the moment and to be able to recognize the beauty in the mundane. It is an art form that requires the photographer to be aware of the camera settings and to be able to use them to capture the moment in the best way possible. It is an art form that requires the photographer to be able to recognize when a moment is fleeting and to be able to capture it before it passes. Ultimately, capturing meaningful moments is an art form that requires the photographer to be able to recognize and capture the beauty in life.

Know your subject and pre-visualize.

In order to capture meaningful moments, it is important for the photographer to know their subject and to pre-visualize. Knowing your subject involves having a basic understanding of who or what is in front of the camera. It involves having conversations with the subject or researching the subject so that the photographer can make better decisions while shooting. Knowing the subject also involves having an understanding of the subject’s likes and dislikes, so that the photographer can better anticipate what kind of photo the subject will appreciate. Pre-visualizing involves having an idea of what the photo should look like before shooting. It involves having parameters for the photo, such as a specific composition, color, or lens. Pre-visualizing also involves being aware of the camera settings and being able to use them to capture the moment in the best way possible.

Ultimately, knowing your subject and pre-visualizing are essential elements to capturing meaningful moments. They enable the photographer to anticipate the moment and to capture it in the best way possible. Knowing your subject and pre-visualizing are essential elements to capturing meaningful moments that will be remembered and cherished.

Capture the energy of moments.

In order to capture the energy of moments, a photographer must first prepare. This means having an idea of what they want to capture and pre-visualizing it before they shoot. This allows the photographer to have a better chance of capturing the moment in the most effective way. It is also important to observe the elements around the subject. For example, a puddle could provide a unique reflection in the photograph. The photographer must observe the elements around them to capture the most meaningful moment.

The next step is to anticipate the moment. This is done by combining timing with pre-visualization. Anticipation is the ability to recognize what is about to happen in front of the camera and be ready to capture it. This could be a car passing by a puddle, or a child riding a bike across a street.

Finally, the photographer must be patient. This is especially true when photographing children. It is important to let them explore and move around naturally, and to not tell them exactly what to do. The photographer should observe the subject and wait for the perfect moment to capture the energy of the moment.

In conclusion, in order to capture the energy of moments, a photographer must prepare, observe, anticipate, and be patient. Knowing your subject and pre-visualizing are essential elements to capturing meaningful moments that will be remembered and cherished. By combining these elements, a photographer can capture moments that will be treasured for years to come.

Capture the moment that matters.

As a photographer, capturing moments that matter is a skill that requires practice and dedication. Moments are fleeting and can be hard to recognize in the moment, so it is important for a photographer to be prepared and have an understanding of their subject. Being prepared means having the right equipment, knowing the environment, and having an understanding of the subject’s story.

It is also important for a photographer to observe and anticipate the moment. Being observant and anticipating the moment requires patience and practice. It is important to be aware of the environment, the people, and the energy of the moment. A photographer should use their senses to observe the environment and anticipate when the moment will be right.

Once the photographer has pre-visualized the moment, they should be patient and wait for the right moment to capture. A photographer should be ready to act quickly when the moment presents itself. The photographer should also be aware of their surroundings and be prepared to adjust their composition if necessary.

Capturing the moment that matters is an art form that requires practice and dedication. It is important for a photographer to be prepared, observe, anticipate, and be patient in order to capture meaningful moments that will be remembered and cherished. By understanding their subject and pre-visualizing the moment, a photographer can capture moments that will be treasured for years to come.

BPP 358: Savannah Dodd - Capturing Conscientiously: Photography Ethics 101

On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, the importance of ethical decision-making in photography is explored. Host Raymond Hatfield and guest Savannah Dodd delve into the personal and contextual factors that contribute to ethical decision making, and the impact of sharing a photograph. They discuss the lack of clear-cut ethical guidelines and provide tips for cultivating ethical decision-making skills. Savannah shares her personal experience navigating ethical challenges working with a charity in Uganda and gives advice on photographing ethical subjects. The episode concludes with a challenge for listeners to create their own photographer's statement of ethics.

Savannah Dodd is a passionate photographer who believes in the immense power of photography for good. With her camera, she strives to shape how others see the world in a responsible and conscious way. Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to be more mindful of their power and use it to create a better world.

Big Ideas with Timestamps:

• 00:05:19 Winning a Photography Competition.

• 00:10:44 Raise ethical concerns in work.

• 00:16:35 Ethics depend on context.

• 00:17:25 Prioritize ethical principles.

• 00:26:29 Think carefully about impact.

• 00:30:08 Question assumptions before photographing.

• 00:36:00 Respect individual experience.

• 00:41:03 Personal connection and motivation.

• 00:46:17 Be conscious of power.

• 00:55:16 Be the ethical decision maker.

Resources:

• Create your own Statement of Ethics

• Check out the Photo Ethics Center and listen to the podcast!

• Savannah’s Photography Website

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

Photography can have immense power.

Photography has immense power to shape how we view the world. We must be conscious of this power and use it responsibly, as it can do a lot of damage if not handled correctly. This power of photography comes from its relationship to the truth and its ability to capture moments in time.

I experienced this power of photography firsthand when I was 11 or 12 and entered a photography competition in my small town. I won first place and it blew my mind. I realized that I was good at photography and that it could be a part of my life. My grandmother, an artist, also encouraged me to explore photography.

When I was in film school, I saw the mindset that everyone had that they could get away with anything because they were making a movie. Common sense went out the window and often, tragic endings resulted. Photographers often have a similar mindset, but ethics need to be taken into account. Savannah Dodd's podcast, Photo Ethics, interviews working photographers about ethical decisions they have had to make. Listening to this podcast makes us ask ourselves how much a photo is really worth.

We must be aware of the power of photography and the impact it can have on the world. We must be responsible with the power and use it to create beautiful and meaningful images that can shape how we view the world. Photography can have immense power and it is up to us to use it responsibly.

Raise ethical concerns in the workplace.

As a photographer, it is important to be aware of the ethical implications of photography. We must be aware of the potential impact of our images and how they can be used. We must also be aware of the potential for misuse of our images. We must be vigilant in ensuring that our images are used ethically and responsibly.

It is also important to raise ethical concerns in the workplace. This was the case for the photographer in this podcast, who had to move to Thailand for a job with an NGO and quickly realized there were issues with the organization’s ethics and how it was being run. The photographer raised their concerns, but they were not taken seriously. This is a reminder that we must be willing to speak up and challenge unethical practices in the workplace.

We must be willing to have difficult conversations and be willing to challenge the status quo. We must be willing to stand up for what is right and speak out against unethical practices. We must be willing to take a stand and be a voice for those who are not able to speak up for themselves.

It is also important to be aware of the ethical implications of our work. We must be aware of the potential impact of our images and how they can be used. We must ensure that our images are used ethically and responsibly and not for any malicious or unethical purposes. We must also be aware of potential misuse of our images and be willing to take steps to prevent this from happening.

It is important to be aware of the power of photography and the impact it can have on the world. We must be responsible with the power and use it to create beautiful and meaningful images that can shape how we view the world. We must also be willing to raise ethical concerns in the workplace and challenge unethical practices. We must be willing to have difficult conversations and be willing to stand up for what is right. We must be aware of the ethical implications of our work and ensure that our images are used ethically and responsibly.

Be aware of context.

In my experience, I have found that context is key when it comes to ethical photography. Context can determine the ethics of a photograph, and it is important to be aware of the context in which you are photographing. For example, when I was living in Thailand, I was working at a photography job that did not align with my ethical beliefs. I had to make the difficult decision to leave the job and it was a difficult experience. I was feeling defeated, but I decided to use the time that I had to further my photography skills. I decided to volunteer at photography galleries and festivals in the region, and it was a great experience. I was able to have conversations with photographers from all over the world about various topics, including consent and access to communities.

I realized that many photographers did not have the skills to negotiate relationships and conversations, and this is where anthropology provided me with a set of skills to negotiate those conversations. It was then that I realized that I could use my skills to help photographers think through the ethics of their practice. I believe that many photographers do not set out to be unethical, but rather lack the awareness of the implications of their work.

It is important to be aware of the context in which you are photographing and to be aware of the ethical implications of your work. We must be willing to have difficult conversations and challenge unethical practices. We must be aware of the power of photography and use it to create meaningful images that can shape how we view the world. Through awareness, we can ensure that our images are used ethically and responsibly.

Prioritize ethical principles.

In order to prioritize ethical principles, we must first understand what ethics means. Ethics is a set of moral principles that guide our behavior and decision-making. It is built on the idea that we should treat others with respect, fairness, and justice. We must also recognize that ethical principles are not black and white, but instead involve a lot of grey area. This means that ethical decision-making is highly context-dependent and requires a deep understanding of the situation in which we are working.

At photography ethics workshops, we practice ethical decision-making by looking at case studies and discussing how we would handle certain situations. We must also cultivate an understanding of our own ethical values and be aware of our personal red lines. This allows us to make decisions based on our own moral code and avoid making decisions that are antithetical to our beliefs.

In addition to practicing ethical decision-making, we must also have conversations about ethics. We can do this by approaching ethics as principles. This means that we can agree on certain principles, such as dignity, respect, and fairness, and then discuss how to apply these principles in different contexts. By having these conversations, we can understand how different people prioritize different ethical principles and why they may make certain decisions.

Ultimately, we must prioritize ethical principles in order to ensure that our photography is used responsibly. We must be willing to have difficult conversations and challenge unethical practices. We must also be aware of the power of photography and use it to create meaningful images that can shape how we view the world. Through awareness, we can ensure that our images are used ethically and responsibly.

Consider impact before sharing.

When it comes to photography, it is important to consider the impact of our work before sharing it. We must think about how our images will be interpreted and how they will affect the viewer. We must also consider the ethical implications of our images. Are we privileging certain people or perspectives over others? Are we being mindful of the potential repercussions of our images? Are we being respectful of the subject of the photo? These are all important questions to consider before sharing our images.

We must also be aware of the power of photography and its potential to shape how we view the world. Our images can have a lasting impact on how we perceive ourselves and others. We must ensure that our images are used ethically and responsibly. We must be willing to have difficult conversations and challenge unethical practices.

Ultimately, we must be mindful of the power of photography and use it to create meaningful images that can shape how we view the world. We must consider the impact of our work before sharing it and be willing to have difficult conversations and challenge unethical practices. Through awareness, we can ensure that our images are used ethically and responsibly.

Question stereotypes before photographing.

In today’s world, photography has become a powerful tool for storytelling. It can be used to capture moments, tell stories, and even shape how we view the world. However, with this power comes great responsibility. As photographers, we must be aware of the impact of our work and be willing to question our own biases and stereotypes before photographing.

One example of this can be seen in the frequent use of photographs of homeless people in charity communications. While this may seem like a good way to showcase someone’s life experience, it can also be seen as reinforcing stereotypes and biases. Instead of taking a photograph that confirms our expectations, we should strive to capture something new and unexpected. This could be done by talking to the person beforehand and getting to know them and their story, or by looking for a different angle or perspective.

Another example is when photographing in rural areas, such as in sub-Saharan Africa. Here, it is important to be aware of the potential ethical issues that may arise. For instance, when photographing children, it is important to get permission from their parents or guardians beforehand. This will ensure that their images are not being used inappropriately or without their consent.

Ultimately, we must be mindful of the power of photography and use it to create meaningful images that can shape how we view the world. We must consider the impact of our work before sharing it and be willing to have difficult conversations and challenge unethical practices. Through awareness, we can ensure that our images are used ethically and responsibly.

Respect individuals, not stereotypes.

Respect for individuals is a fundamental part of photography. We must be mindful of our assumptions and expectations when photographing people. We must recognize that people in vulnerable positions such as those experiencing homelessness are often easier to access than people with power, and that this can lead to the perpetuation of stereotypes and tropes. It is important to ask ourselves what we learn from a photograph and ensure that we are not using someone as a prop. We must strive to depict people as individuals, not as a representative of their type.

We should also be conscious of our own expectations of what makes a “good” photograph. We must be willing to challenge the idea that a “good” photograph has to be dramatic or hyper-visual. We should be open to capturing subtle moments and nuances that may not be as visually striking, but are nonetheless meaningful. We must be willing to step away from our own expectations and biases, and focus on capturing stories that are unique to the individual.

Photography can be an incredibly powerful tool for creating meaningful images, but it is also important to be aware of the ethical implications of our work. We must strive to respect individuals and challenge stereotypes, and use our work to create meaningful images that can shape how we view the world.

Ethical photography: share, connect, care.

The podcast I listened to discussed the idea of ethical photography, focusing on the importance of understanding different religious traditions and how to use photography to break down barriers. The speaker discussed the need to have a personal connection to the subject of the photograph, as well as the importance of understanding why you are taking the photograph and what your objective is. They also discussed the importance of understanding the context of the photograph, and having access to the community you are photographing.

When taking photographs, it is important to consider the impact of our work. We must strive to share information that is meaningful and relevant to the subject, rather than taking photographs purely for our own personal gain. This means connecting with the people we are photographing and understanding their stories, rather than simply taking a photograph without any context.

It is also important to be aware of the ethical implications of our work. We must strive to respect individuals and challenge stereotypes, and use our work to create meaningful images that can shape how we view the world. We must also take care to ensure that our photographs are not used to exploit or objectify individuals, and that our work is not used in a way that could be seen as insensitive or offensive.

Ultimately, ethical photography is about connecting with the people we are photographing and sharing meaningful information about them. We must strive to create images that challenge stereotypes, and use our work to create meaningful connections between people of different backgrounds. By focusing on the similarities between people, rather than the differences, we can create images that are powerful and meaningful. By taking the time to share, connect, and care, we can create images that are ethical and meaningful.

Be aware of power dynamics.

As photographers, we have immense power in the images we create. We have the power to shape how others view the world, and the power to determine how the things we photograph are represented to others. We must be aware of the power dynamics at play in any given situation, as our images can have immense power for good or for harm. We must be aware of our own assumptions and biases, and strive to challenge them in our work. We must strive to create images that are honest, accurate, and representative of the subject matter.

We must also be aware of the impact our images can have on the people we are photographing. We must respect the privacy and dignity of our subjects, and strive to create images that represent them in a positive light. We must ask ourselves questions before pressing the shutter button, such as “What am I representing?”, “What are my assumptions about the people, community, or topic I’m photographing?”, and “What will the viewer learn about the people, community, or topic from my photographs?”.

The power of photography is immense, and we must be aware of the power dynamics at play in any given situation. We must strive to create images that are honest, accurate, and respectful of our subjects. By taking the time to ask ourselves questions and challenge our own assumptions, we can create images that are ethical and meaningful.

Only you decide what's ethical.

Photography ethics is a complex topic, and it is important to consider the implications of our choices. As photographers, we need to ask ourselves questions such as: What is my objective with this photograph? What story am I trying to tell? What is the larger view of what I want my legacy to be?

The answers to these questions will help us to make decisions that are ethical and responsible. We need to be aware of the power dynamics at play, and consider how our actions might affect our subjects. We should also take into account our own biases and assumptions, and strive to be as objective as possible.

Savannah, a guest on the podcast Photo Ethics, stresses the importance of considering the implications of our choices as photographers. She encourages us to think about our legacy, and to ask ourselves what kind of impact our work will have on the world. She also reminds us that there are no “ethics police”, and that it is up to us to decide what is ethical.

This is an important reminder, and we must take responsibility for our choices. We can create a statement of ethics that outlines our beliefs and principles, and use this as a guide when making decisions. This statement can also be shared with others, setting an example and encouraging transparency and accountability.

At the end of the day, only we can decide what is ethical. We must take the time to reflect on our choices, and strive to create images that are honest, respectful, and meaningful. By taking the time to ask ourselves questions and challenge our own assumptions, we can create images that are ethical and meaningful.

Challenge your assumptions.

It is important to remember that as photographers, we have the power to choose what stories to tell and what images to create. We must take the time to consider our intentions and the implications of our choices. We must ask ourselves questions such as, “What am I representing?” and “What are my assumptions about the people, community or topic that I’m photographing?”. It is also important to consider what the viewer will learn from our photographs. By taking the time to consider these questions, we can make sure that our images are honest and meaningful.

It is also important to focus on what we are passionate about when it comes to photography. By focusing on our passions, we can create images that are unique and creative. We must be honest with ourselves and follow our passions when it comes to photography. This will help us create images that are meaningful and true to our vision.

At the end of the day, we must take the time to challenge our assumptions and be mindful of our choices. We must make sure that our images are honest, respectful, and meaningful. By taking the time to consider our intentions and the implications of our choices, we can create images that are ethical and meaningful.

Be conscious of your power.

As photographers, we have immense power. We can shape how others see the world and mediate people's access to things that they might not otherwise see. We also have the power to determine how the things we photograph are going to be represented to others. We have the power to break down barriers, to challenge stereotypes, to tell stories, and to create meaningful images.

However, with this power comes great responsibility. We must be aware of the power we hold and be conscious of how we use it. We must ask ourselves questions like: What is my motivation? What do I learn from this photograph? Am I the right person to photograph it? Do I have access to the community I want to photograph? Do they want to be photographed?

We must also be aware of the potential for harm that our images can cause. We must be conscious of our power and use it responsibly. We must not rely on stereotypes or tropes, or use people as props or stand-ins for someone of their type. We must not just take a photograph for the sake of taking a photograph. We must make sure that our images are honest, respectful, and meaningful.

In conclusion, we have the power to shape how others see the world. We must be mindful of our power and use it responsibly. We must take the time to challenge our assumptions and consider the implications of our choices. We must make sure that our images are honest, respectful, and meaningful. By being conscious of our power, we can create images that are ethical and meaningful.

Practice ethical decision-making.

Practicing ethical decision-making is essential for photographers. It allows them to make informed choices that are in line with their values and beliefs. It helps them to consider the potential impacts of their images and how they might be perceived by others. It also helps them to think about their positionality and how their identity might influence their choices. By engaging in ethical decision-making, photographers can create images that are meaningful and impactful.

Ethical decision-making starts with understanding our own values and beliefs. We must take the time to reflect on our biases and assumptions and think about how they might influence our decisions. We must also consider the context in which we are working. We must think about our positionality and how our identity might shape our choices. We must also be aware of the potential impacts of our images and how they might be perceived by others.

Once we have taken the time to consider our values and beliefs, we must practice making ethical decisions. We can do this by looking at case studies and examples and engaging in conversations about how we might handle certain situations. We can also use our practice to develop our own ethical boundaries and understand what feels good and what doesn't. This can help us to make decisions in the moment that are in line with our values.

Ultimately, ethical decision-making is a process that requires us to be mindful and reflective. We must take the time to consider our values and beliefs and think about how they might influence our choices. We must also practice making ethical decisions in order to develop our own ethical boundaries. By engaging in ethical decision-making, we can create images that are meaningful and impactful.

BPP 357: Photo Q&A: AI vs A Camera - Who Will Win the Photography Battle?

You have photo questions, I want to answer them for you here on the show.

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.

After shooting for more than a decade and interviewing 300+ world class photographers, its time to share some of that practical information with you!

Todays Photography Questions:

• Will AI replace the role of a photographer

• Do I need photo contracts before shooting?

• Do I need photo contracts when shooting street photography?

• Whats better, Photoshop or Lightroom?

• Can you make it as a photographer without learning Photoshop?

• What the best camera under $2000 to photograph wildlife

• What is the best lens for wildlife photography?

• What Im shooting now that Im not focused on Weddings
  
  Resources:

• Ask your photography questions to get answered on the show!

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

BPP 356: Harry Skeggs - Wildlife Wonders: A Photographers Journey to Preserve the Natural World

This podcast follows Harry Skeggs, a fine art wildlife photographer, to discuss the impact and importance of photography in preserving the world. He motivates listeners to take a tool in their hands to influence the world and bring awareness to issues near and far. He shares his story of not knowing the value of photography until he was forced to have time for himself due to an accident, and ended up winning runner-up in a Nat Geo Photography of the Year competition.

The Big Ideas with Timestamps

• 00:03:09 Learn art to take better photos.

• 00:11:43 Animals are family members.

• 00:13:39 Follow your passion.

• 00:22:52 Tell a story before taking photos.

• 00:27:00 Protect animals we love.

• 00:30:06 Wildlife conservation is essential.

• 00:39:03 Make mistakes to improve photography.

• 00:43:15 Be the change you want.

Resources:

• Fine Art Wildlife Photographer Harry Skegg’s website

• Follow Harry on Instagram

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

Photography is an art form.

Photography is an art form that has been around for centuries, but has only recently been recognized as a legitimate form of expression. From the earliest days of the medium, photographers have used their cameras to capture the beauty of the world around them. However, it was not until the late 19th century that photography began to be seen as a legitimate form of artistic expression.

The invention of the camera was a major step forward in the development of photography as an art form. The ability to capture a moment in time and immortalize it in a photograph was something that had never been done before. This gave photographers the opportunity to tell stories and express emotions in ways that were previously impossible.

The development of photography as an art form has been greatly influenced by the work of some of the most iconic photographers in history. The most famous of these is Ansel Adams, who is widely recognized as the father of modern photography. Adams was a pioneer in the field of landscape photography, and his work has inspired generations of photographers. His iconic images of the American West have become iconic symbols of the beauty and power of nature.

Another influential photographer who helped to shape the art of photography was Harry Skeggs. Skeggs was a wildlife photographer who used his camera to bring awareness to voiceless wildlife creatures. He was also a proponent of the idea that narrative should predate image. This means that photographers should have a narrative in mind before they start taking pictures. This helps to ensure that the images they capture are meaningful and tell a story.

In conclusion, photography is an art form that has been around for centuries and continues to evolve with the times. It is a powerful way to capture the beauty of the world around us and tell stories that might otherwise go unheard. From the earliest days of the medium to today's digital age, photographers have used their cameras to capture the beauty of the world and express emotions in ways that were previously impossible.

Animals are family members.

One photographer who has embraced this art form is the wildlife photographer, who often captures stunning images of animals in their natural habitats. In the podcast, we hear from this photographer about the importance of animals in his life and how he views them as family members.

The photographer grew up in an animal-centric household, where dogs were treated as family members more than pets. This experience shaped his view of animals and his appreciation for their beauty and intelligence. He also realized that photography could be used to capture the unique and special moments he experienced in his travels, as well as to share with others the beauty of the world he saw.

The photographer found that photography was not as easy as he expected, but he was determined to continue because he wanted to capture and share the real experiences he had. He also found that the difference between holiday snaps and art in photography is that the photographer is in control of the camera and making artistic decisions. This requires a knowledge of the equipment and a willingness to learn, which the photographer did by teaching himself manual photography.

The photographer's love of animals and his appreciation for their beauty and intelligence shines through in his work. He believes that animals are family members and that they should be treated with respect and kindness. This is a sentiment that many of us can relate to, and it is one that should be embraced by all. Animals are part of our lives and we should be grateful for the joy and companionship they bring.

Follow your own voice.

The photographer also believes that we should all follow our own voice when it comes to photography. It is easy to get caught up in trying to please others and to follow trends, but this doesn’t always lead to the best results. We should all strive to create unique images that reflect our own tastes and interests. This is the only way to truly stand out and make a name for ourselves.

The photographer emphasizes the importance of finding our own voice and sticking to it. He understands that it can be difficult to break away from the norm and to take risks, but that is the only way to ensure that our work is unique and meaningful. We should also remember that everyone has access to some form of camera and that we are all photographers in our own right.

The photographer also encourages us to use photography to support ourselves, but to not let it take over our passion. We should try to find a balance between the two and make sure that our passion for photography does not fade away.

The photographer’s advice is invaluable and should be taken seriously. We should all strive to find our own voice and to create images that are unique and meaningful. We should also remember to take risks and to not be afraid to break away from the norm. Only then can we truly stand out and make a name for ourselves.

Research and planning are key.

For any photographer, research and planning are key. It is essential to be prepared and to know what you are looking for before you even set foot in the field. Having an idea of the kind of images you want to create, the type of light you are looking for, and the kind of environment you are shooting in is all important. It is also important to research the wildlife you are photographing. Knowing the behavior of the animals, the time of year they are active, and the best places to find them is essential for any photographer who wants to capture stunning images.

The photographer in this podcast spoke about his own experience in India. He had done extensive research and planning in order to ensure that his trip was a success. He knew the time of year he wanted to go, the type of light he wanted to capture, and the kind of environment he wanted to be in. He also knew the behavior of the tigers he was hoping to photograph and the best places to find them. His research and planning paid off, as he was able to capture stunning images despite the fact that the tigers were elusive.

This is a perfect example of the importance of research and planning. Without proper preparation, it is impossible to capture the kind of images we want. We must also remember that wildlife photography is unpredictable and that sometimes we can be unlucky and not get the shots we want. This is why it is important to be flexible and to not be too hard on ourselves if we don’t get the shots we want.

In conclusion, research and planning are essential for any photographer. We must be prepared and know what we are looking for before we even set foot in the field. We must also be flexible and be prepared for the unexpected. Only then can we truly stand out and make a name for ourselves.

Protect animals we love.

When it comes to photography, it is essential to remember that the purpose of our photos is to help, not harm. We should strive to capture images that will evoke emotion and inspire people to take action. We should use our photos to tell stories that will educate and inform viewers and help them understand the importance of protecting animals.

We must also remember that animals are as important as humans and that we have an obligation to protect them. We can do this by teaching people how to care and love them. We can also help by donating a portion of our profits to charity and by protecting primary rainforest trees.

When we take photos of animals, we should always strive to capture images that will help, not hurt. We should use our photos to shine a spotlight on animals that don't get the same protection as other animals. We should also use our photos to show people why animals are so important and why we should protect them.

By following these guidelines, we can ensure that our photos will help protect the animals we love.

Wildlife conservation is essential.

Wildlife conservation is essential in order to protect the many species of animals that inhabit our planet. Without it, many animals could become extinct, leaving us with a world without the beauty and diversity that they bring. Unfortunately, many populations of animals, such as giraffes, are declining due to a variety of factors, such as habitat encroachment, hunting, and lack of protection. It is up to us to take action and ensure that these animals are able to survive and thrive.

One way we can help is by using photography to shine a spotlight on conservation efforts. By taking photographs of animals in their natural habitat, we can show the world the beauty and importance of these animals and inspire people to take action. Additionally, sharing these images on social media can help spread awareness and create a larger impact.

We can also use our photography to help raise funds for conservation efforts. By donating prints of our photographs, we can help support organizations that are dedicated to preserving and protecting wildlife. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as donating prints to charities or selling prints to raise money for conservation efforts.

Finally, we can use our photography to create emotional connections between people and animals. By creating powerful and meaningful images, we can help people to understand the importance of wildlife conservation and the need to protect these animals. By creating a connection between people and animals, we can help create a lasting impact that will help ensure that these animals are able to survive and thrive for generations to come.

Wildlife conservation is essential for the future of our planet and the countless species of animals that inhabit it. By using our photography to spread awareness and raise funds, we can help ensure that these animals are able to survive and thrive for generations to come. We must take action now to help protect these animals and ensure that they are able to live in a safe and healthy environment.

Make mistakes to grow as photographer.

As photographers, it is important to remember that making mistakes is a part of the learning process. We must be willing to take risks and push ourselves to create the best images possible. By making mistakes, we can grow as photographers and learn how to better capture the beauty of the natural world.

When it comes to capturing photographs of wildlife, it is important to remember that patience and observation are key. We must take the time to observe our subjects and wait for the perfect moment to take a photograph. We must also be willing to experiment and try new techniques in order to capture the best possible images.

In addition to being patient and observant, it is also important to have a good understanding of the technical aspects of photography. We must learn how to use our camera settings, lighting, and composition to create the best possible images. We must also learn how to edit and post-process our images in order to create the most captivating images.

Finally, it is important to remember that our photography can be used to help make a difference. By using our photography to spread awareness and raise funds, we can help ensure that the animals we photograph are able to live in a safe and healthy environment. We must take action now to help protect these animals and ensure that they are able to live in a safe and healthy environment.

In conclusion, making mistakes is an important part of the learning process. We must be willing to take risks, experiment, and push ourselves to create the best possible images. By understanding the technical aspects of photography, being patient and observant, and using our photography to help make a difference, we can become better photographers and help protect the animals we photograph.

Be the change you want.

The phrase “Be the change you want to see in the world” is an inspiring reminder that we can all make a difference in our own way. Whether it’s through photography, activism, or other forms of art, we can use our talents to create positive change. Harry Skeggs, a professional wildlife photographer, is a great example of someone who is using his passion to make a difference. He has used his photography to help raise awareness of endangered species, as well as to give a voice to voiceless wildlife creatures.

Harry’s advice to us was to find ourselves, listen to ourselves, and make an impact. To find ourselves, we must be willing to take risks and experiment with our photography. We must also be patient and observant in order to capture the best possible images. To listen to ourselves, we must be confident in our own creative decisions and not be afraid to break the rules. Finally, to make an impact, we must use our photography to help make a difference in the world. Whether it’s through raising awareness of endangered species or donating prints of wildlife creatures to those in need, we can use our photography to make a difference.

We all have the power to make a positive impact on the world. By following Harry Skeggs’ advice, we can use our photography to help make a difference. We can be the change we want to see in the world.

BPP 355: Heather Lahtinen - From Clueless to Confident: Conquer the Learning Curve in Photography

On this episode, I interview photographer and educator Heather Lahtinen about how to tackle the feelings of overwhelm that come with learning photography. Heather explains how she became an unintentional wedding photographer and eventually made the transition to going full-time.

The Big Ideas with Timestamps

• 00:04:37 Have fun with photography.

• 00:07:10 Take action and practice.

• 00:13:37 Choose not to be overwhelmed.

• 00:17:25 Take risks and learn.

• 00:20:07 Set a goal and go for it.

• 00:27:43 Take action and don't fear.

• 00:34:16 Increase prices to be sustainable.

• 00:38:57 Believe in yourself and succeed.

• 00:39:35 Say yes before you know how.

• 00:47:00 Focus on ideal client marketing.

• 00:52:51 Get help and drop pride.

• 00:55:02 Invest in yourself for success.

• 01:02:25 Book studio management software.

• 01:06:09 Start taking photos now.

• 01:10:11 Believe in yourself.

• 01:13:09 Shoot and don't fear failure.

Resources:

• The Flourish Academy

• The Flourish Academy on Instagram

• Flourish Academy Episode 73: How to deal with imposter syndrome

• Heathers Free Pricing guide for photographers

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

Have fun with photography.

Photography is an amazing art form that can bring joy and satisfaction to those who take it up. It is a skill that requires creativity, knowledge, and practice to master. But, it can also be incredibly overwhelming when starting out. Thankfully, with the right attitude and approach, it can be an incredibly enjoyable and rewarding experience.

In this podcast, Heather Lahtinen shares her story of becoming an accidental wedding photographer. She had a Canon PowerShot G3 point and shoot camera and didn’t know how to use it. Despite this, she was asked to take photos at her cousin’s wedding. She accepted the challenge and had a lot of fun with it. She took snapshots without knowing the technical settings and her cousin loved the photos.

Heather’s story is a great reminder that photography doesn’t have to be taken too seriously. It’s important to have fun with it and not worry too much about the technical aspects. It’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them. With practice and patience, you will get better and be able to capture beautiful images.

It’s also important to take breaks and take time to enjoy the process. Photography can be a great escape from the stresses of everyday life. It can be a great way to explore your creativity and express yourself. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it.

In conclusion, photography is an amazing art form that can bring joy and satisfaction to those who take it up. It is important to have fun with it and not worry too much about the technical aspects. It’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them. With practice and patience, you will get better and be able to capture beautiful images. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it.

Practice and learn to succeed.

Practice and learning are essential to success in any field, and photography is no exception. As the saying goes, “practice makes perfect” and this is especially true for photography. It takes time and dedication to become a skilled photographer, and the only way to get better is to practice and learn.

This is something that I have personally experienced. I started out as a family photographer, taking snapshots of family and friends. I knew my photos weren’t great, but I was willing to put in the effort to get better. I read books, took workshops, and practiced as much as I could. I even bought a new camera and lens to help me take better photos.

Eventually, I started to get better. I learned about aperture and how to make the background blurry. I also started to understand what I liked and didn’t like in photography. I focused my efforts on wedding photography and took on more and more weddings each year. I eventually got to the point where I felt confident in my work and was able to produce beautiful photos.

This is a testament to the power of practice and learning. It is not easy to become an expert in photography, but with dedication and hard work, it is possible. It is important to be patient and not get discouraged. Keep practicing and learning and eventually you will get to the point where you are proud of your work.

Choose to pursue photography.

Heather is a perfect example of someone who chose to pursue photography. She found joy and passion in it and decided to go all in. She found that photography was a great way to connect with people and produce meaningful photos that could evoke emotion. She also wanted to make sure that everyone had nice photos of their family, which was in the back of her mind. Heather realized that it was not the quality of the photos that mattered the most, but the connection with people. She was able to capture beautiful memories for her cousin's wedding and they were so grateful.

Heather's story is a reminder that we should take opportunities when they come our way, even if we don't feel ready. We should not let the fear of not being ready stop us from pursuing our passions. It is possible to not be overwhelmed in photography and we can choose to look at the bigger picture and break it down into smaller, more achievable goals. We can also find resources to help us along the way, like Heather did with Raymond's roadmap.

It is important to remember that photography is a journey and it is okay to take your time. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve great things. So choose to pursue photography and don't be afraid to take risks. Who knows what amazing things you can create?

Believe in yourself and try.

Believing in yourself is the first step to achieving your goals. It is easy to become overwhelmed and discouraged, but it is important to remember that you can do anything you put your mind to. When I decided to pursue photography and leave my corporate job, I was scared. I knew that I was leaving a secure job and salary behind, but I was determined to make it work. I had a supportive husband and a daughter to provide for, so I knew I had to make it work.

I started by just shooting and asking for money. I was determined to make it work, so I kept pushing forward despite any mistakes I made. I learned Photoshop and Lightroom, and I kept investing in better gear. Eventually, I was able to make more money than I was making from my corporate job.

The key to success is to believe in yourself and try. Don't be afraid to take risks and make mistakes. You can learn from your mistakes and use them to become a better photographer. Believe in yourself and you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

Set a goal and go for it.

I learned this lesson firsthand when I decided to become a full-time wedding photographer. I had a degree in photography, but I was still scared to take the plunge and start my own business. I was afraid of failure and of being judged by others. But I decided to take the risk and set a goal: to become a high-end wedding photographer in my area.

I knew I had to have a destination in mind, so I set my sights high and worked hard to make it happen. I was determined to figure it out quickly and make money, but I wasn't afraid to make mistakes. I kept pushing forward and eventually achieved my goal.

I understand that some people may feel like they don't have the qualifications to become a professional photographer. But it's important to remember that you can do anything you set your mind to. You don't need a degree or a certain level of experience to be successful. You just need to believe in yourself and take the necessary steps to reach your goal.

It's also important to remember that imposter syndrome is normal. We all have moments of self-doubt, but it's important to recognize that these thoughts are not serving you. Ask yourself, does this thought make me feel good? If the answer is no, then it's not the truth.

In conclusion, believe in yourself and set a goal. Take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them. You can achieve anything you set your mind to.

Take action, don't fear.

In today’s world, it is easy to become overwhelmed with fear. Fear of failure, fear of judgement, and fear of the unknown can be paralyzing. However, it is important to remember that fear should not be a barrier to success. Taking action and not allowing fear to get in the way is key to achieving your goals.

Raymond’s conversation with a photographer is a great example of how fear can be a roadblock. The photographer was so worried about what would happen if they became successful that they were not taking any action to get there. Raymond’s advice was to take action and not to worry about what other people think. He said that no one is thinking about you as much as you are thinking about yourself. He also said that fear is not the real issue, but rather the potential embarrassment of what people might think.

The key takeaway from this conversation is that fear should not be a barrier to success. Taking action is the only way to achieve your goals. It is important to remember that everyone makes mistakes, and these mistakes should be seen as learning experiences rather than failures. Successful people are not afraid to take risks and make mistakes. They are willing to put themselves out there and learn from their experiences.

It is also important to remember that you cannot control what other people think. It is more important to focus on the people who support you and those who are willing to hire you. Do not be afraid to be successful and do not let fear stop you from taking action.

In conclusion, believe in yourself and set a goal. Take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them. You can achieve anything you set your mind to. Do not let fear be a barrier to success. Take action and do not be afraid to put yourself out there.

Charge what you're worth.

As a photographer, it is important to charge what you are worth. It is not enough to just take photos and hope to make money. You need to be able to set a price that reflects your skill level and knowledge. It is also important to be confident in your abilities. You need to believe that you can produce quality work and that your clients will be willing to pay for it.

It is also important to look for inspiration and guidance from other photographers. Jerry Gohenis is one of the world's most famous wedding photographers and he has offered invaluable advice on how to overcome imposter syndrome. He suggests that you accept that you are a work in progress and get comfortable with where you are. You do not need to be the best photographer, you just need to be better than you were last week.

It is also important to create a space where people feel comfortable to share their work without fear of judgment or criticism. This is why in the Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook group, there is a zero rudeness tolerance policy. Everyone is at a different point in their journey and they should be able to share their photos without feeling attacked or judged.

When it comes to charging what you are worth, it is important to be aware of your goals. Everyone's goals are different, so it is important to respect where someone is at in their journey. It is also important to remember that there is room for everyone in the photography industry.

Finally, it is important to remember that comparison is not the same as inspiration. If you look at someone else's work and it makes you feel badly about yourself, then you need to stop. However, if you look at someone else's work and it inspires you to pick up your camera and try something new, then that is a good thing.

It is important to charge what you are worth as a photographer. It is also important to find inspiration from other photographers, create a safe space for people to share their work, and set realistic goals for yourself. With the right mindset and determination, you can achieve anything.

Believe in yourself and succeed.

Believing in yourself is an essential part of success. When I first started mentoring other photographers, I noticed a pattern. Some photographers were succeeding while others were struggling. I was curious as to why some photographers would succeed right away while others could not get clients even if they were equally talented. This led me to dedicate my life to figuring out why some photographers succeed and others do not.

I believe that the answer lies in believing in yourself. People who believe in themselves and their abilities are more likely to succeed. Those who do not believe in themselves are more likely to struggle. It is important to remember that you are capable of anything if you put your mind to it. With the right mindset and determination, you can achieve anything.

It is also important to charge what you are worth as a photographer. Many photographers are hesitant to raise their rates because they fear that they will lose all their clients. However, this is not the case. It is important to remember that someone will always come along for the ride. If you feel comfortable, consider incrementally increasing your rates. This way, you can reach your goals without feeling overwhelmed.

Finally, it is important to find inspiration from other photographers, create a safe space for people to share their work, and set realistic goals for yourself. Taking the time to find inspiration from other photographers and create a safe space for people to share their work can help you stay motivated and reach your goals. Additionally, setting realistic goals for yourself will help you stay on track and achieve success.

Believing in yourself is an essential part of success. With the right mindset and determination, you can achieve anything. It is also important to charge what you are worth as a photographer, find inspiration from other photographers, create a safe space for people to share their work, and set realistic goals for yourself. With these tips, you can be sure to succeed.

Say yes before you know how.

One of the most important aspects of success is having the confidence to say yes before you know how. This means having the courage to take risks and to believe in yourself, even when you don’t know the answer. Many people are stuck because they are too afraid to take action or assume that they can’t do it. It is important to remember that you can always figure it out.

Saying yes before you know how can be a powerful tool for growth. It is a way to take action and to learn how to do something. It is also a way to challenge yourself and to push past your comfort zone. Taking risks can be scary, but it is an essential part of growth and success.

It is also important to charge what you are worth as a photographer. Many people think that they can’t charge more for their services because of their location or the economy, but this is not necessarily true. You can always find people in your area who are willing to pay for your services. It is also important to have a good understanding of your target market and to understand what they are willing to pay.

Finding inspiration from other photographers is also essential. Seeing what other photographers are doing can help to inspire you and to push your boundaries. It is important to find photographers who have a similar style to yours and to see what they are doing. This can help you to stay motivated and to stay on track with your goals.

Creating a safe space for people to share their work is also important. This can be done through social media, blogs, or even in person. It is important to create a space where people feel comfortable to share their work and to give constructive feedback. This can help to create a supportive and encouraging environment.

Finally, it is important to set realistic goals for yourself. It is important to have goals that are achievable and to set deadlines for yourself. This can help to keep you motivated and to keep you on track.

In conclusion, believing in yourself and having the courage to say yes before you know how is an essential part of success. It is also important to charge what you are worth, find inspiration from other photographers, create a safe space for people to share their work, and set realistic goals for yourself. With these tips, you can be sure to succeed.

Focus on ideal client marketing.

Focus on ideal client marketing is an important part of any photographer's business. Knowing who your ideal client is will help you create a marketing strategy that speaks to them and resonates with them. It will also help you create content that is tailored to their needs and interests.

When creating an ideal client profile, it is important to consider things like age, gender, location, interests, and budget. Once you have created your ideal client profile, you can start to create content specifically tailored to them. This could be anything from blog posts to social media posts to email campaigns.

Once you have created your ideal client profile, it is important to start actively engaging with them. You can do this by attending events or volunteering with organizations that your ideal clients are likely to be involved in. This will give you the chance to meet them in person and start building relationships. Additionally, you can use online platforms like social media and email to reach out to them and start conversations.

Finally, it is important to remember that your ideal clients are not the only people you should be marketing to. You should also be willing to take on clients who are outside of your ideal client profile. This will help you build a diverse and loyal client base.

By focusing on ideal client marketing, you can ensure that your marketing efforts are targeted, effective, and successful. This will help you create a successful photography business and build strong relationships with your clients.

Find a mentor and get help.

Finding a mentor or a group to connect with is essential for any photographer looking to make money. A mentor can help you understand the business side of photography, as well as provide guidance and support. Having a mentor can help you overcome the feeling of imposter syndrome, as they can help you understand what you don't know. They can also provide checklists and resources to help you get started.

By working with a mentor, you can learn the steps to success and build your business with confidence. They can help you create a plan and set goals for yourself. They can also provide tips and strategies to help you reach those goals. Working with a mentor can also help you build relationships with other photographers, which can lead to more opportunities and collaborations.

No matter what level you are at in your photography business, it is always beneficial to find a mentor and get help. Having a mentor can help you stay on track and reach your goals faster. They can also provide valuable insight and advice that can help you make the most of your business. So take the time to find a mentor and get help to ensure that you have a successful photography business.

Invest in yourself.

Investing in yourself is also an important part of having a successful photography business. Whether it be investing in courses, books, or other resources, investing in yourself can help you learn faster and become more knowledgeable in your field. Investing in yourself can also help you become more confident in your abilities, which in turn can lead to more clients and more money.

When it comes to investing in yourself, it is important to remember that it is an investment in your future. Investing in yourself can help you become more knowledgeable, more confident, and more successful. It can also help you save time and money in the long run. For example, instead of spending hours scouring YouTube for tutorials, you can invest in a course and learn it in a weekend. This can help you get started faster and save you time and money.

In conclusion, investing in yourself is an important part of having a successful photography business. Investing in courses, books, and other resources can help you become more knowledgeable, more confident, and more successful. It can also help you save time and money in the long run. So take the time to invest in yourself and your business so that you can reach your goals faster and make the most of your photography business.

Invest in studio management.

One resource that all photographers should consider investing in is studio management software. Studio management software can help you stay organized and prevent you from making costly mistakes. As Heather, a professional photographer with 17 years of experience, can attest, not investing in studio management software can have dire consequences. She once double-booked a wedding and had to scramble to find a replacement photographer, an effort that cost her time and money.

Heather realized the importance of investing in studio management software and never made the same mistake again. She recommends that all photographers invest in studio management software to help them stay organized and avoid costly mistakes. With studio management software, you can easily manage bookings, contracts, payments, and other important tasks. It can also save you time and money in the long run, as it can help you streamline your process and keep track of everything in one place.

So if you’re a photographer, take the time to invest in studio management software. It can help you stay organized, save time and money, and prevent costly mistakes. Investing in yourself and your business is essential for success, and studio management software can help you get there.

Start taking photos now.

But, even if you don’t have the time or money to invest in studio management software, there is still one key piece of advice that all photographers should take to heart: start taking photos now.

As a professional photographer, I’ve learned the importance of getting out there and practicing my craft. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the technical aspects of photography, but the truth is that the only way to get better is to get out there and start taking photos.

For those of you who are just starting out, don’t be afraid to start small. You don’t need to invest in expensive equipment right away. You can rent a camera kit for a few days and practice with your friends and family. This is a great way to get your feet wet and hone your craft without breaking the bank.

Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to start building your portfolio. Don’t be afraid to share your work on social media. You don’t need a huge following to get started. All you need is one client to get the ball rolling. So get out there and start taking photos.

Taking photos is a great way to express yourself and it can be incredibly rewarding. It’s also a great way to learn and grow as a photographer. So don’t wait, start taking photos now.

Believe in yourself.

However, if you’re just starting out, it can be hard to get clients to pay you for your work. This is why it’s important to believe in yourself and your abilities. Believe that you can create amazing photos and experiences for your clients. Believe that you can learn and grow as a photographer. Believe that you can make it happen, no matter what the obstacles.

This is the advice that Heather, a professional photographer, gave in her podcast episode. She said that if you can just get one client and produce an amazing experience, then the word of mouth marketing will take care of the rest. She also mentioned the power of who and why you already know everyone you need to know. Everyone knows someone who is getting married or needs a photographer, so you just need to take the plunge and get started.

Heather also shared her own story about how she went from three weddings to thirty, even though her photos were terrible. She said that what sold her clients on her was her conviction and passion. People are looking for someone or something to believe in, and if you have the passion and conviction, then people will be attracted to it.

Heather believes that the key to success is to simply believe in yourself. You can’t ask people to believe in you if you don’t believe in yourself first. Believe in yourself, because nobody wants to hire an insecure photographer.

So if you’re just starting out as a photographer, or if you’re struggling to get clients, remember to believe in yourself and your abilities. Believe that you can create amazing photos and experiences for your clients. Believe that you can learn and grow as a photographer. Believe that you can make it happen, no matter what the obstacles. Believe in yourself, because nobody wants to hire an insecure photographer.

Shoot, pivot, and grow.

This is the advice Heather Lottinen gave in her interview on the Beginner Photography Podcast. Heather is an experienced photographer and educator and she encourages her audience to not be afraid to take risks, shoot, and pivot. She believes that there is no one “right” way to do things, and that photographers should be willing to experiment and find the best solution for their own unique situation.

In her interview, Heather also discussed the importance of pricing. She believes that photographers should not be afraid to charge what they are worth, and should not be afraid to experiment with different pricing strategies. She encourages photographers to get out there and shoot, and not worry about pricing until they have a better understanding of their own worth and the value they can bring to their clients.

Heather also offered a free pricing 101 course to her audience. This course is designed to help photographers understand the basics of pricing and how to create the perfect package for their clients. She believes that by understanding the basics of pricing and experimenting with different strategies, photographers can create a pricing system that works for them and their clients.

Overall, Heather’s advice is to shoot, pivot, and grow. Don’t be afraid to take risks, experiment, and try different strategies. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and understand the value you can bring to your clients. Trust that you can create amazing photos and experiences for your clients, and that you can learn and grow as a photographer. With the right mindset and the right strategies, you can make it happen.

BPP 354: Anja Poehlmann - Shooting Everyday for Creativity: Discover a New You Through Photography

On this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, host Raymond Hatfield interviews Anja Poehlmann, a documentary family life photographer. They discuss how shooting every day can affect both creativity and personality. Anna also shares how digital cameras have made shooting easier since she moved to Hawaii for a 6-month internship. She created a website as a way to document her life in her new home and was inspired to start shooting photography as a career.

The Big Ideas with Timestamps

• 00:01:04 Embrace all forms of creativity.

• 00:10:10 Light is key to photography.

• 00:16:08 Authentic family photography is key.

• 00:17:13 Capture real family moments.

• 00:26:00 Tell meaningful stories through photos.

• 00:30:11 Capture meaningful moments.

• 00:35:05 Just get started!

• 00:43:36 Embrace imperfection and experiment.

• 00:48:27 Interact with strangers confidently.

• 00:54:45 Make art, not money.

Resources:

• Brighton Family Photographer Anja Poehlmann’s website

• Follow Anja on Instagram

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

Capture reality, not perfection.

The idea of capturing reality instead of perfection has been around for a long time. People have always wanted to capture moments that are meaningful to them, not just ones that look perfect. In today's world, this idea is becoming more and more popular, especially in the realm of photography.

In the podcast episode 354 of the Beginner Photography Podcast, documentary family life photographer Anja Poehlmann talks about how shooting every day can transform not only your creativity, but your personality as well. She explains that she personally does not like studio photography, as it is too stiff and awkward. She explains that while these photos have a place, they are not for her. Instead, she prefers to capture reality, which is not always the most pretty thing.

Anja's story is a great example of how photography can be used to capture reality. She explains that when she moved to Hawaii for half a year, she decided to take her camera with her and create a website to share her experience with her friends and family. This was the first time she used her camera for more than just taking a few photos on vacation. This experience was the start of her journey as a photographer and it shows how powerful photography can be for capturing reality.

It is important to remember that reality is not always perfect. By capturing reality, we can tell a more honest story that is often more meaningful than a perfectly posed photo. We can show the real emotions and connections between people, which can often be more powerful than a posed photo.

In the end, it is important to remember that photography is a powerful tool for storytelling. We can capture reality instead of perfection and tell stories that are more honest and meaningful. We can use photography to show the world the way we see it, not just the way it looks in a perfect photo.

Practice and observe light.

For any photographer, learning to practice and observe light is an essential skill. Light can transform a mundane photo into something extraordinary, and it can bring out the best in a subject. It can be used to create atmosphere and emotion, and it can make a scene look more dramatic or peaceful.

When it comes to learning to practice and observe light, the best way to learn is through trial and error. As photographer Timur Civan explains, he learned by going out with his camera and seeing what happened when he changed the settings. He learned to understand how the numbers worked together and how to use the aperture priority mode to get a better exposure. He also learned to recognize why he liked certain pictures better than others, which was due to the depth of field.

Observing light is also an important skill for photographers. It is important to pay attention to how light affects an image and to understand why certain images look better than others. For example, it can be helpful to look for shadows under the eyes or nose, or to pay attention to the angle of the light and how it can be used to the photographer's advantage.

In the end, practice and observation are the keys to mastering light. With enough practice and observation, any photographer can learn to recognize and control light to create beautiful and meaningful images. It takes time and dedication, but the results can be truly stunning.

Be authentic and honest.

The same can be said about photography in general. It takes time and dedication to create meaningful images, and the key to creating meaningful images is to be authentic and honest. Photographers must strive to capture the truth of their subjects, and to avoid contrived and artificial images.

This is a lesson that I learned from my own experience as a photographer. I started out taking photos of friends and family, and eventually moved on to paid work. I was lucky enough to get bookings from a single wedding, and that wedding led to bookings for five years. I learned that I had to be prepared for anything, and that I had to be honest and authentic in my approach.

Today, I focus mainly on family and small business photography. My approach is documentary, and I strive to create honest and authentic images. I avoid contrived and artificial images, and instead focus on capturing the truth of my subjects. I want to create meaningful images that capture the emotion and beauty of the moment.

Being honest and authentic is an essential part of creating meaningful images. It takes time and dedication to master the art of photography, but with enough practice and observation, any photographer can learn to create beautiful and meaningful images.

Capture real family moments.

Capturing real family moments is a unique challenge for any photographer. It requires the photographer to be present, to observe, and to capture the essence of a family’s life. The goal is to capture the real moments, the moments that will be remembered and cherished for years to come.

In order to capture these moments, a photographer must be willing to go beyond the traditional posed family photos. They must be willing to take the time to understand the family’s daily routines and habits. They must be willing to listen to the family’s stories and ask questions in order to get a better understanding of the family’s dynamics.

Documentary family photography is a great way to capture real family moments. It allows the photographer to be present for a longer period of time, which gives them more opportunity to observe and capture the true essence of the family. The photographer is able to capture the family’s morning routine, their afternoon at the playground, and their bedtime rituals.

The goal of documentary family photography is to create a visual record of a family’s life that can be looked back on and appreciated. It allows us to look back on our past and understand who we used to be and who we are now. It helps us to understand our own story and the stories of our families.

Capturing real family moments is a unique challenge for any photographer, but it is also a rewarding experience. It is a chance to create beautiful and meaningful images that will be cherished for years to come. Documentary family photography is a great way to capture these moments and create a visual record of a family’s life that can be looked back on and appreciated.

Show connection in photos.

Documentary family photography is all about capturing the connection between family members. It is about taking the time to observe the family dynamic and capturing the subtle interactions between them. To do this, photographers must be patient and observant, looking for moments of connection that can be captured in an image.

One way to capture connection in photos is to use layering and composition. Photographers can use different elements in the frame to tell a story. For example, a photo of a parent and child can be taken from an angle that shows another parent and child in the background. This creates a sense of connection between the two families and allows the photographer to tell a story with the image.

Another way to capture connection in photos is to use poses. Photographers can ask family members to sit or stand close together or to interact in a way that looks natural. This can help to create a sense of connection between the family members and can result in beautiful and meaningful photos.

Finally, it is important to remember that the everyday moments are just as important as the special occasions. Photographers should take the time to observe and capture the little moments that make up a family’s life. This could include a morning of making porridge together or a trip to the park with the kids. These moments can be just as powerful as the ones captured on special occasions and can help to create a visual record of a family’s life that will be cherished for years to come.

Documentary family photography is a great way to capture the connection between family members and create beautiful and meaningful images that will be cherished for years to come. By taking the time to observe their interactions and using layering, composition, and poses, photographers can create images that tell a story and capture the connection between family members.

Create meaningful art.

Creating meaningful art is not only about capturing beautiful images, but also about creating something that has meaning to the family. As photographer Sarah Price explains in her podcast, her goal when shooting a family is to create something that means something to them and the art comes second. She emphasizes that it is not just about technicals, but also about understanding the family’s tastes and values. She also stresses the importance of allowing the family to be themselves and not feel like they have to get out of the way for the photographer to take the perfect shot.

In addition to documentary family photography, Sarah Price also has a creative project called the Long Portrait. It is a portrait on steroids in which she takes a two to three minute video of someone looking at the camera and then overlays it with an interview. She has five questions for everyone who takes part in her Long Portrait and then creates a story based on what they tell her. This project is a great way for her to create art for herself without relying on clients and it also gives her the opportunity to just try and play and fail and see what works and what doesn’t.

Creating meaningful art is not just about capturing beautiful images, but also about creating something that has meaning to the family. It is important to take the time to observe their interactions and use layering, composition, and poses to create images that tell a story and capture the connection between family members. It is also important to understand the family’s tastes and values and allow them to be themselves. Creative projects like the Long Portrait are a great way to create art for oneself without relying on clients and to experiment with different techniques.

Just get started!

However, it can be difficult to get started on a project like this. It can be daunting to think of the end goal and the amount of work it will take to get there. It is important to remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. It is important to focus on the process and the creative ideas that come out of it rather than the end result. This is something that the podcast guest has experienced firsthand. They have found that the best way to get started is to just start. They focus on the journey rather than the end goal and it has allowed them to be more creative and take risks.

The podcast guest also recommends setting personal progression goals in order to stay motivated. This can include challenging oneself to shoot vertically, take photos in a certain time frame, or observe the same scene differently every day. It is important to remember that everybody needs a different kind of motivation.

The takeaway from this podcast is to just get started. It does not matter if the end goal is not clear yet, the important thing is to take the first step and start the creative process. It is important to remember that the journey is just as important as the destination and to focus on the creative ideas that come out of it. Setting personal progression goals can also be a great way to stay motivated and create meaningful art.

Embrace imperfection and experiment.

Another key point is to learn to love the dark, grubby days. It is easy to get caught up in the idea of perfect days with beautiful sunshine and blue skies, but it is important to appreciate the beauty in the imperfect days too. This can be a great opportunity to experiment with different techniques and ideas. For example, trying out long exposures or playing around with shadows and light can be a great way to get creative and make something unique.

Finally, it is important to remember that projects should be for yourself, not for others. It is easy to get caught up in wanting to please or impress others, but it is important to focus on creating something that you are proud of and that you enjoy. Taking away the pressure of perfection and validation from others can help to create something more meaningful and personal.

In conclusion, it is important to embrace imperfection and experiment. This can help to create something meaningful and unique, as well as being a great way to stay motivated and inspired. Taking away the pressure of perfection and validation from others can help to create something more meaningful and personal. So don’t be afraid to get creative and take the leap into something new.

Don't be afraid to ask!

Don't be afraid to ask! This is a phrase that is often heard but not necessarily followed. Asking for help, advice, or a favor can be intimidating and uncomfortable for many people. It can be difficult to put yourself out there and take the risk of being rejected or judged. However, when it comes to photography, it is important to take the leap and ask for help or advice.

Anja, a photographer, shared her story of how she learned to ask strangers for their photo. She found that the majority of the time, people were more than willing to let her take their photo. This allowed her to gain confidence in her photography skills and become more comfortable with talking to strangers. Additionally, she found that having a business card with her name and Instagram handle on it was a great way to connect with the people she photographed and give them something in return.

Anja also shared the importance of reading the room. She suggested that it is best to approach people when they are not in a rush and are more likely to be open to the idea of having their photo taken. This is a great way to ensure that the experience is positive for both parties and that the photos will turn out well.

Asking for help or advice can be a daunting task, but it is often worth it in the end. Asking for help can open up many opportunities and lead to new experiences. It can also help to build relationships and create a sense of community. Furthermore, it is a great way to gain confidence and learn new skills.

It is important to remember that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength. It shows that you are willing to take risks and put yourself out there. It is also important to remember that it is okay to make mistakes and ask for help. It is part of the learning process and can help to create something meaningful and unique.

Shoot for what makes you unique.

This is something that I have learned from listening to the Beginner Photography Podcast. In particular, I was inspired by the interview with Anja Purman. Anja is a photographer from London who has a passion for capturing unique and interesting images. She believes that it is important to shoot for what makes you unique.

Anja explains that it doesn’t matter what camera you have. What matters is that you are the only person who can create the photos that you create. Therefore, it is important to lean into what makes you unique and don’t try to follow all of the same rules that everybody else follows. This will help you to stand out and create something special.

Another key takeaway from Anja’s interview is to be open to trying new things. Don’t just learn about them and think about them, but actually try them. This will help you to find the things that you love the most and make sure that you are not wasting your time thinking about something that you don’t even like.

Finally, Anja stresses that the art comes second. This means that when money is involved, you will always shoot for your clients and that is okay. Just know that this will happen and focus on creating something unique and meaningful.

Overall, Anja’s interview was incredibly inspiring and reminded me that it is important to shoot for what makes you unique. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. And remember, the more that you shoot today, the better of a photographer you will be tomorrow.

BPP 352: Manifesto Pt2: To Be A Half Way Decent Photographer You Must Dedicate All Of Your Time To It

Today I cover Photography Manifesto Rule #2, To Be A Half Way Decent Photographer You Must Dedicate All of Your Available Time To It. That this does not mean focusing on it 24/7, instead I urge you to keep a photographical eye on in-between moments.

The Big Ideas with Time Stamps

• 00:01:33 Dedicate time to photography.

• 00:05:43 Learn to use camera as tool for storytelling.

• 00:15:27 Pay attention to the world.

• 00:17:18 Focus on composition, not gear.

• 00:20:41 Shoot, don’t watch gear reviews.

Resources:

• Listen to the full Photography Manifesto Episode, BPP 334

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

Dedicate time to photography.

Being a halfway decent photographer requires dedication and time. It is not enough to simply buy an expensive camera and press the button, hoping for the best. To dedicate all of your time to photography means to think and see photographically in the gray areas and in the in-between moments. This can be done while driving home in the evening, while grocery shopping, or while walking the dog.

When starting out in photography, it is easy to get lost in the technical aspects of the craft. It can be difficult to understand the settings and how to make a photo that is neither too bright nor too dark. For those who are struggling with the technical side of photography, help can be found at Perfect Camera Settings dot com. There, one can find a free camera settings guide with examples of professional photos and the camera settings used to create them.

The key to being a halfway decent photographer is to dedicate all of your time to it. This does not mean to ignore all other responsibilities, but rather to think bigger. It means to pay attention photographically in the in-between moments and to always be aware of the possibilities of capturing a great photo. With dedication and time, anyone can become a great photographer.

Tools for storytelling through photography.

Photography is a form of storytelling, and the tools for telling great stories through photography are many. According to the podcast, the first tool is to learn how to use your camera as a tool. Knowing how to use the camera to take basic exposures is important, but it is not enough to make a great photograph. It is the little details that make the photograph come alive. It is the composition, the moment, the creativity, the light, and the interaction with the subject. It is also the emotion that is conveyed through the photograph.

Another tool for storytelling through photography is to pay attention to the world around you. It is to look for the mundane and see it in a different perspective. It is to wait for the perfect action shot and to capture the emotion of the moment. It is to look at the world through the lens of your camera and to see it from a different point of view.

Finally, the last tool for storytelling through photography is to freeze time. It is to capture the perfect moment and to tell a story through that moment. It is to capture the emotion and the beauty of a moment that can never be repeated again.

Photography is a powerful tool for storytelling, and with dedication and practice, anyone can become a great photographer. By learning how to use your camera as a tool, paying attention to the world around you, and freezing time, anyone can tell great stories through photography.

Pay attention to the world.

The first step to becoming a great photographer is to understand how to use your camera as a tool. Knowing how to use your camera’s settings and features will help you to create the best photos possible. It is important to understand the basics of photography, such as shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and composition, in order to take the best photographs. Additionally, it is important to understand the types of lenses available, as they can greatly affect the outcome of your photos.

The second step to becoming a great photographer is to pay attention to the world around you. As the saying goes, “the world is your oyster”, and it is important to take the time to explore and appreciate the beauty of the world. Whether you are driving, walking, or simply sitting in your backyard, take the time to look around and observe the world. Notice the details, such as the architecture of buildings, the colors of the sky, and the movements of people. When you take the time to observe the world around you, you will be able to capture moments that others may miss.

Finally, the third step to becoming a great photographer is to freeze time. Photography is the art of capturing a moment in time, and it is important to remember that the moment will never be the same again. By freezing time, you can capture a moment that will never be repeated. When you take the time to observe and appreciate the world around you, you will be able to capture moments that will be remembered forever.

By understanding how to use your camera as a tool, paying attention to the world around you, and freezing time, anyone can become a great photographer. Photography is a powerful tool for storytelling, and with dedication and practice, anyone can tell great stories through photography.

Shoot, not watch gear reviews.

However, it is important to be mindful of how you spend your time as a photographer. Watching gear reviews, although fun, is not the most productive way to improve your photography skills. Instead, it is more beneficial to shoot and to pay attention to the world photographically.

When you shoot, you can learn from mistakes and successes. You can identify what works and what doesn’t. You can learn how to use your camera more effectively. You can also learn how to use light and composition to create great images. Additionally, you can practice timing and learn how to freeze time.

It is also important to pay attention to the world photographically. Pay attention to light, composition, symmetry, and timing. Look at photo books and critique images. Ask yourself questions about the photos: Do you like this photo? Why do you feel that way? What is it specifically about the photo that you do or don’t like? What are they trying to say here? How would you take this photo if you were trying to tell the same story?

You can also learn by listening to conversations with photographers. Listen to podcasts, watch photography round tables on YouTube, and watch photographers go out and shoot. Hear their thoughts and their thought process.

Finally, it is important to remember that not all photography-related activities are equal. Watching gear reviews may be fun, but it is not the most productive way to become a better photographer. Gear reviews can be helpful if you know what you need and what your current camera is missing, and you are ready to invest in a new camera or lens. However, if you are not actively looking to purchase a new camera, watching gear reviews is a waste of time.

In conclusion, the most productive way to become a better photographer is to shoot, pay attention to the world photographically, and listen to conversations with photographers. Gear reviews can be helpful, but only if you are actively looking to purchase a new camera or lens. Otherwise, it is a waste of time. So, shoot, not watch gear reviews.

Focus on composition, not gear.

As a photographer, it can be easy to get caught up in the latest and greatest gear. We read reviews, watch videos, and compare specs to determine which camera or lens is the best. While there is certainly a place for this, it can become an obsession that takes away from the most important part of photography: composition.

Composition is the art of arranging the elements in a photo to create a pleasing image. It involves understanding light, shadow, moment, viewpoint, and other factors. It does not require a camera or lens to be successful. In fact, some of the best photography advice I have ever received was to take a walk without my camera and just observe the light, shadows, and other elements of the scene. This can help you develop an eye for composition and become a better photographer.

Another way to become a better photographer is to read photo books and critique your own photos and the photos of others. This will help you gain an understanding of how to create a compelling image and how to tell a story with your photos. It will also help you to understand the creative process and how to use your camera as a tool to create the images you envision.

Finally, it is important to remember that the camera is the least important part of the image. Everyone has a smartphone these days, and those phones are capable of taking technically perfect photos. To stand out from the crowd, you need to focus on composition and storytelling.

BPP 351: Gain Wisdom Through Mistakes in Photography

In this episode I delve deep into the importance of making mistakes and how it can help photographers develop their skills faster. I share how Huy Nguyen, one of the most talented wedding photographers shares his wisdom surrounding the knowledge vs wisdom paradigm and learning through practical experience. Through this, Raymond tries to encourage listeners to take risks, make mistakes and not be afraid in order to elevate their photography and understanding of the craft.

Resources:

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

Make mistakes to learn wisdom.

Making mistakes is an essential part of the learning process. We all make mistakes, but it is important to understand that mistakes can be a source of wisdom. Mistakes can be used to gain valuable knowledge and insight that can help us become better photographers and even better people.

In the beginner photography podcast brought to you by CloudSpot, host Raymond Hadfield talks about how mistakes are not something to be avoided, but rather embraced. He says that mistakes will make us better photographers faster. He explains that knowledge is gained from observing and being taught, but wisdom is gained from putting something into practice.

We can learn a lot from experience, but it is important to remember that mistakes will happen. We Is, one of the most talented wedding photographers, says that he goes into every wedding expecting at least five things to go wrong. He explains that even on the toughest days, mistakes can still be made, but we can still make good, professional photography that our clients will be happy with.

Making mistakes is part of the learning process, and it is important to understand that mistakes can be a source of wisdom. We can learn a lot from our mistakes, and we can use them to become better photographers and better people. Mistakes can be used to gain valuable knowledge and insight that can help us become better photographers and even better people. So don't be afraid to make mistakes. Embrace them, learn from them, and use them to become a better photographer.

Take risks, but be responsible.

However, it is important to understand that not all mistakes are created equal. Some mistakes can be harmless and some can be reckless. It is important to recognize the difference between the two and to be responsible when taking risks. When taking risks, it is important to understand the consequences of the risk and to be aware of the potential for failure. It is also important to consider the potential for success and to understand how the risk may benefit you in the long run.

For example, if you are a photographer, it is important to understand the risks of taking on a new client. You may be concerned about the potential for a lawsuit if something goes wrong, but if you are confident in your abilities, it may be worth the risk. On the other hand, if you are tempted to steal someone else's work and post it as your own, it is important to recognize that this is a reckless mistake that could have serious consequences.

In conclusion, it is important to take risks and to learn from our mistakes. However, it is also important to be responsible and to understand the potential consequences of our actions. Taking risks is part of being an entrepreneur, but it is important to recognize that some risks are more dangerous than others. By understanding the risks and being responsible, we can use our mistakes to become better photographers and better people.

Embrace mistakes to grow.

We all make mistakes, and it is important to embrace them. Mistakes can be a great learning opportunity and can help us grow. Walt Disney was fired from his job for lacking imagination, but he didn’t give up. He kept going and eventually created a successful animation studio. His mistakes and failures taught him valuable lessons and helped him become the success he is today.

Making mistakes can be scary, but it is important to remember that mistakes are part of the learning process. It is important to take risks, but it is also important to be responsible and to understand the potential consequences of our actions. We can use our mistakes to grow and become better photographers and better people.

It is important to remember that mistakes are part of the learning process. We should embrace our mistakes and use them to grow and become better photographers and better people. Taking risks is part of being an entrepreneur, but it is important to recognize that some risks are more dangerous than others. By understanding the risks and being responsible, we can use our mistakes to become better photographers and better people.

BPP 350: Mica McCook - Food Photography Secrets: Plating up Art

Mica McCook is an Austin based food photographer. Mica recollects her journey to becoming a photographer which had begun in 2015 when her then-boyfriend encouraged her to take up photography as a business. On receiving payment from her first gig, she realized she could turn it into a career. Mica shares how she began her journey as a photographer by experimenting with different types of photography, and eventually landed on food photography. Mica believes that light is an important element of her work and uses it to create dramatic photos.

The Big Takeaways

• You can be a photographer.

• Start with a passion.

• Develop emotional sensitivity.

• Learn the rules to break them.

• Bring life to still images.

• Try the thing.

• Light and shadows create art.

• Prepare before shooting.

• Give yourself permission to fail.

Resources:

• Check out Austin Food Photographer Mica McCook’s website

• Listen to the Savory Shot Podcast

• Follow Mica on Instagram

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

Start a business with passion.

Starting a business with passion is an incredibly rewarding experience. It gives you the opportunity to do something that you love and make a living doing it. For me, that was photography. I had been working in a physical therapy clinic and was unhappy with my job. I had gone to school for theater arts, but had dropped out and couldn’t find a job that I was passionate about. I was stuck in the cycle of bills and had lost my creative side.

It wasn’t until one particularly bad day at work that I finally admitted to myself and my then-boyfriend that I hated my life. He asked me what I wanted in an employer and I listed all the things I wanted in a job. He then said, “You sound like an entrepreneur.” I laughed and said no, but he encouraged me to consider starting my own business. I had always been interested in photography, but never considered it as a career.

So I decided to take a chance and booked my first client. When I saw the email saying the bill had been paid, I knew I could do this. I spent the first year of my career exploring different types of photography, and eventually found my passion in food photography. I now take my job incredibly seriously, and view it as an art form.

Starting a business with passion is a brave and exciting endeavor. It takes courage to take the leap, but it can be incredibly rewarding. Not only do you get to do something you love, but you get to make a living doing it. I’m so glad I took the chance and started my own business, and I encourage others to do the same.

Start small and grow.

I started my photography business in 2015 with just a point-and-shoot camera. I was inspired by the images I saw of the people I was working with, and I thought, “Maybe I can do this.” I had an idea and a bit of elbow grease, and I wanted to see where it could take me. I set up a website and put some feelers out there to see who might be interested in hiring me. Little by little, I started to get paid gigs and my business began to grow.

The technical side of photography was what really drew me in. I was lost at first, but it challenged me in a way I hadn’t been challenged before. Once I learned the fundamentals, I felt powerful because I could create moments and capture memories. I loved how dramatic food photography could be, and I wanted to elevate it to the next level. Photography was like theater in that every shoot, every client, and every project was different. It kept me stimulated and energized, just like theater did.

My advice to anyone wanting to start a business is to start small and grow. You don’t need the nicest camera or the most expensive equipment to get started. All you need is the grit and the mental determination to say, “I’m a photographer now and that’s it.” You can start small and gradually build your business over time. With dedication and hard work, you can make your dream a reality.

Develop a style and emotion.

I learned this lesson the hard way when I decided to start my own family photography business in 2015. I was working full-time in a clinic and struggling to do both. That’s when I decided to go back to school to study photography and take my skills to the next level. I knew I was great with in-person learning, so I left my job and went to school.

During my second semester, I had a conversation with a professor who asked me why I was not pursuing food photography. I was taken aback by the question, but I decided to rate every photo shoot I ever did on a scale of one to ten in terms of enjoyable experience. Every food photo shoot was an eight, nine, or ten. That’s when I knew I was going to pursue food photography.

The first year I did everything from photographing a birth to a death metal concert, festivals, and weddings. I learned quickly that weddings were not for me. It’s a tough industry to be in, and I wasn’t very good at it. I liked my weekends and weddings are all weekends. Food photography was a great conversation starter and I enjoyed watching the chefs create something out of nothing.

To become a great food photographer, I had to learn about color and the feelings attached to color. When I look at photos, I ask myself what do I feel in this moment? What is this photo telling me in this moment? And then I ask why? What elements about this photo mean this feeling?

When I think of food photography, it feels more like you have to build something from nothing. It’s not just the food, it’s the environment that makes you feel a certain way. It’s all about the psychological feeling type of things that I had to learn and develop and be more sensitive to.

Developing a style and emotion is important in any type of photography, but especially in food photography. You have to tug at the person's emotion and emotion is what makes us buy something. Emotion is how it makes us feel. It’s all about the psychological feeling type of things that I had to learn and develop and be more sensitive to.

Overall, I learned that developing a style and emotion is key to becoming a successful photographer. It takes dedication and hard work, but if you have the grit and determination to make your dream a reality,

Learn the fundamentals to explore creativity.

Photography is an art form that allows people to express their creativity in unique ways. To become a successful photographer, it is important to learn the fundamentals of photography and then use those fundamentals to explore creativity.

When I first started learning photography, I was so focused on the technical side of it that I didn't think about the creative aspect. I was impatient and wanted to get results right away. However, I soon learned that it takes time to learn the basics of photography before you can truly explore creativity. My professors taught me that I needed to be patient and take my time to learn the rules before I could break them.

Once I learned the fundamentals, it became second nature. I no longer had to think about the technical side of photography and could focus on the creative aspect. It was like taking a breath or waving my hand - something that I had become so comfortable with that it was automatic. That's when I started exploring different styles and techniques.

I learned that it's important to be kind and patient with yourself. Everyone's learning style is different and it takes time to become a successful photographer. It's easy to look at other photographers' work and feel like you want to achieve that level of success right away. However, it's important to remember that it takes time to get to that level.

The key to becoming a successful photographer is to learn the fundamentals and then use that knowledge to explore your creativity. Everyone's photography style is unique, so it's important to find what works for you. You can do this by experimenting and playing with different techniques and styles. It's also important to be kind and patient with yourself and remember that it takes time to become a successful photographer. With dedication and hard work, you can make your dream of becoming a successful photographer a reality.

Bring life to still images.

One way to bring life to still images is to draw inspiration from the world around you. This could include looking at paintings, literature, and other forms of art. For example, if you're inspired by 15th century Dutch paintings, you can use chiaroscuro, or the use of light and shade, to create a dramatic effect. The same goes for literature, which can help you create a narrative or story in your images.

Another way to bring life to still images is to focus on the energy and emotion of the scene. Think about what emotions you want to evoke in your audience and how you can use light and color to create the desired effect. For example, you can use saturated colors and deep shadows to create a dramatic and punchy image. You can also play with different points of view to create a more intimate and personal experience for the viewer.

Finally, it's important to remember that photography is a form of storytelling. You can use props, backgrounds, and other elements to create a scene that conveys a story or feeling. For example, you can use a single spotlight to draw the viewer's attention to a particular element in the image. By creating a scene with a narrative, you can bring life to your still images.

In conclusion, becoming a successful photographer takes time and dedication. To bring life to still images, you can draw inspiration from the world around you, focus on the energy and emotion of the scene, and use storytelling techniques. With patience and practice, you can create beautiful and captivating images that will leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Try the thing.

The phrase “try the thing” is a mantra that many photographers use to remind themselves to take risks and push the boundaries of their craft. Professional photographer Aaliyah Pugh talks about how she applies this mantra to her work. She explains that she gives herself the space to fail and fail again in her portfolio work. This allows her to explore and experiment with different techniques and styles without the pressure of needing to produce perfect results.

Pugh also emphasizes the importance of learning one’s camera. She believes that it is essential to understand the technical aspects of photography before you can begin to be creative. She also recommends having portfolio reviews with other photographers, as it can help you to identify areas of improvement and to figure out how to make your photos better.

Finally, Pugh encourages photographers to “try the thing” and to not be afraid to make mistakes. She believes that by failing and trying again, you can learn new techniques and find new ways of creating beautiful images. She also believes that by being patient with yourself and showing yourself kindness, you can discover little tidbits that you would not have found by searching on YouTube or reading a book.

Overall, Pugh’s advice is to be willing to take risks, learn your camera, and be open to failure. By pushing yourself to “try the thing”, you can create unique and captivating images that will leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Shadows add dramatic flair to art.

Shadows are one of the most powerful tools a photographer can use to create dramatic and captivating images. Shadows provide a unique way to create contrast, depth, and mood in a photograph. When used correctly, shadows can add an extra layer of drama and emotion to an image.

When photographing with shadows, the photographer has to be intentional and creative in order to create the desired effect. One must consider the light source, the direction of the shadows, and the angles of the shadows to create the perfect atmosphere. The photographer must also be aware of the background and how it interacts with the shadows.

Shadows can also be used to create a sense of mystery and suspense. By using shadows to obscure the subject, the viewer is left to imagine what is hidden. This can be used to create a sense of tension and anticipation.

Shadows can also be used to evoke emotion. By using shadows to create a silhouette, the photographer can create a feeling of loneliness or longing. By using light and shadows to create a sense of depth, the photographer can create a feeling of awe or wonder.

Shadows can be used to create a variety of moods and emotions in a photograph. By using shadows to create contrast, depth, and mystery, a photographer can create a dramatic and captivating image that will leave a lasting impression on the viewer. With a little creativity and practice, anyone can use shadows to create powerful and captivating images.

Prepare before shooting.

However, before a photographer can begin to create these images, they must first prepare. Preparing for a shoot is essential for a successful outcome. It is important to consider the lighting, props, and other elements that will be used to create the desired image.

When it comes to lighting, it is important to consider the type of lighting that will be used and the effect it will have on the image. For example, if a photographer is shooting a cocktail or drink, they may want to use strobes or speed lights to create a dramatic effect. They may also want to use reflectors, diffusers, and other props to create the desired lighting scene. Additionally, they should consider the type of camera they will be using and the settings they will use to capture the best image possible.

When it comes to props, it is important to consider what will be used to make the image stand out. For example, if a photographer is shooting a martini, they may want to consider what garnishes will be used to make it look more appealing. They may also want to consider the colors and textures of the props used to create a more interesting image.

Finally, it is important to consider the art direction of the image. This includes the colors, angles, and other elements that will be used to create the desired effect. For example, if a photographer is shooting a dark and moody shot, they may want to use darker colors and shadows to create a more dramatic effect. On the other hand, if they are shooting a bright, colorful shot, they may want to use brighter colors and more props to create the desired effect.

Preparing for a shoot is essential for creating powerful and captivating images. By considering the lighting, props, and art direction of an image, a photographer can create an image that will leave a lasting impression on the viewer. With a little creativity and practice, anyone can use shadows and other elements to create beautiful and captivating images.

Give yourself permission to fail.

However, it is important to remember that not every shoot will be a success. As a photographer, it is important to give yourself permission to fail. This means that it is okay to try something new and experiment with different techniques. If something does not work out, it is important to take it as an opportunity to learn from the experience. It is also important to remember that failure is part of the creative process and should not be seen as a negative experience.

When it comes to client shoots, it is important to practice the techniques that you plan to use beforehand. This way, you can get a feel for the technique and make sure that it will work out the way you want it to. It is also important to remember that you should always be prepared for the unexpected. This means that you should always have a backup plan in case something does not go as planned.

It is also important to remember that failure can be a great teacher. By taking the time to analyze what went wrong, you can learn from the experience and use it to improve your skills. This can help you become a better photographer and help you create more captivating images.

Finally, it is important to remember that failure is not the end of the world. Instead, it should be seen as an opportunity to learn and grow. By giving yourself permission to fail, you can become a better photographer and create beautiful and captivating images.

BPP 349: Photo Q&A - Photography: The More You Know, The Harder It Gets

You have photo questions, I want to answer them for you here on the show.

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.

After shooting for more than a decade and interviewing 300+ world class photographers, its time to share some of that practical information with you!

Todays Photography Questions:

• Can you market yourself as a weekday wedding photographer?

• Can you use CloudSpot in Sweden?

• What tips do you have for orginizing all of your photos from vatious locations into one place?

• What to use, Lightroom or Lightroom Classic

• How do you deal with imposter syndrome when the more you learn about photography the more critical you become

• How can photographers earn money in a recession when luxury items are typicly the first expense cut.

Resources:

• Ask your photography questions to get answered on the show!

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

BPP 348: Gary Pope - Harry Potter Weddings: Niching Down and Going Beyond Expectations

Gary Pope is a self-proclaimed Geeky Wedding Photographer. We discuss the importance of niching down when marketing yourself and why it’s important to find the right audience in order to better align with your goals. Gary shares his story of learning how to use his camera for YouTube videos and taking photos for a whole year before he realized he loved wedding photography.

Big Take Aways

• Find your niche and stand out

• Always keep learning

• Pay attention to guests

• Find a way to stand out

• Be a friend with a camera

• Serve clients with care

• Be polarizing and unique

• Be true to your niche

• Passion draws people in

• Be creative and realistic

• Plan ahead for photos

• Enjoy your niche passion

• Know your worth

Resources:

• Check out Geeky Wedding Photographer Gary Pope’s Website

• Follow Gary on Instagram

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

Find your niche and stand out.

In the world of photography, it is essential to find your niche and stand out from the crowd. It is important to find the right audience and create a personalized experience that is tailored to them. For example, Gary Pope, a self-proclaimed geeky wedding photographer, has found a niche in geeky couples. He gravitates towards those couples and enjoys working with them the most. This allows him to stand out in his field and market himself in a unique way.

By niching down, Gary is able to deliver a more personalized experience to his clients. He has had couples that had Renaissance fair themed weddings, circus themed weddings, and even couples that were playing Jenga during their bridal portraits. By finding a niche, Gary is able to better serve his clients and make their day special.

Finding a niche is also beneficial for learning purposes. When Gary first started out, he was learning videography and was told to bring his camera with him everywhere and take photos. This allowed him to get used to different settings and situations, from taking photos of his dog to shooting in low light. By getting bored of taking the same photos every day, Gary was able to switch up his style and find new ways to capture moments.

Finding a niche and standing out is a great way to grow as a photographer and better serve your clients. It allows you to create a personalized experience tailored to their needs and gives you an opportunity to learn and grow in your craft. Niching down can be intimidating, but it is worth the effort and can lead to great success.

Bring your camera everywhere.

For Gary, bringing his camera everywhere became his niche. He was inspired by the idea of being able to capture moments in real time and the challenge of making something beautiful out of the mundane. Gary was determined to find ways to create unique and interesting photos, even in the most mundane of situations. He found that the more he took his camera out, the more he was able to hone his craft and create beautiful images.

Gary soon found himself in challenging situations. He was faced with low light, shooting with his pup on a walk, and taking photos of people. He found that the most challenging part was learning to take good photos of people. He was often met with criticism from his friends and family, but he used it as motivation to improve.

Gary found that the key to success was to take advantage of the surroundings and embrace them. He found that the best way to learn was to take courses and practice. He also found that he was able to create more interesting photos by experimenting with different lenses, flash gear, and techniques.

Gary's journey of bringing his camera everywhere is a great example of how niching down can lead to success. He was able to hone his craft and create beautiful images in challenging situations. His story is an inspiration to aspiring photographers and a reminder that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

Pay close attention to guests.

One of the most important lessons Gary learned was to pay close attention to guests. He realized that by people watching, he could capture the perfect moments. He noticed that when a group of people were laughing, the person who wasn't laughing was usually the one telling the joke. He also noticed that people look best when they are laughing, so he would try to keep an eye on the funny guy.

Gary's background in I.T. also helped him in his photography journey. He was able to stay calm in stressful situations and make people feel at ease. He was also able to translate complicated problems into layman's terms and troubleshoot himself. All of these skills helped him become a successful wedding photographer.

Overall, Gary's story serves as a reminder that paying close attention to guests can lead to great success in photography. It is important to observe people and their interactions to capture the perfect moments. With hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

Find a way to stand out.

Gary was working in IT and making good money when he decided to pursue photography full time. He was drawn to it because of the people he could work with, and the interactions he could have. He was not so interested in the camera gear, presets, or composition. Instead, he was focused on the people and the fun that comes with it.

Gary noticed that he was drawn to geeky couples and their weddings. He found himself playing board games with them and enjoying their company. He realized that this was his people, and he wanted to serve them. He knew that he had to find a way to stand out, so he decided to focus on geeky weddings and create a niche for himself.

Gary was able to stand out by focusing on geeky weddings. He found his niche and was able to gain more attention for his work. He was also able to find more joy in his work, as he was able to work with people he enjoyed and capture moments that were unique and special.

Gary's story serves as a reminder that it is important to find a way to stand out. It is important to find a way to make yourself unique and to focus on what you are passionate about. With hard work and dedication, you can make your dreams a reality.

Be a friend with a camera.

Gary found his niche in the photography world by focusing on geeky weddings. He quickly realized that it wasn't enough to just take great photos; he needed to be able to connect with his clients and make them feel comfortable. He soon discovered that it was less about the photos and more about the service he was providing.

Gary found that it was important to connect with his clients on a deeper level. He was able to do this by getting to know them and understanding their interests and hobbies. He was able to talk to them about their favorite Harry Potter books and movies, and even provide them with trivia facts. This allowed him to bond with his clients and make them feel like he was a friend with a camera.

This is an important lesson for anyone looking to stand out in their field. It is not enough to simply be good at what you do; you need to be able to connect with your clients on a deeper level. You need to be able to provide them with the service they are looking for and make them feel like you are a friend with a camera.

By following Gary's example, you can make a name for yourself in your field. You can focus on what you are passionate about, provide great service, and connect with your clients. With hard work and dedication, you can make your dreams a reality.

Serve clients with care.

When Gary was asked to photograph a family for the first time, he was ecstatic. But when he arrived at the shoot, he noticed the family looked awkward and uncomfortable. After delivering the photos, they said they wished he had given them more direction. This made Gary realize that unless you are a Kardashian, no one is comfortable in front of a camera. He realized that posing was more than just putting your arm here and pushing out your hip. It was about getting your clients to feel comfortable and confident in front of the lens.

To help others, Gary created a free guide to posing with more than 80 images of real poses he has used with his couples. This guide is a great resource for photographers and helps them to be successful in their craft.

Gary also realized that it is important to serve your clients with care. It is not just about providing the service and getting paid, it is about making sure your clients are comfortable and taken care of. Gary recommends thinking about your business from a more human aspect. He suggests thinking about how you want to be treated when you go out to businesses and do services. He used the example of a mechanic to explain his point. If you go to five different mechanics and four of them say the same thing, but the fifth one gives you extra advice and tells you about future problems, you will likely go back to that person.

In conclusion, Gary's advice is to serve your clients with care. It is not just about providing the service and getting paid, it is about making sure your clients are comfortable and taken care of. By following Gary's example, you can make a name for yourself in your field and make your dreams a reality.

Dress to stand out.

Dressing to stand out is a surefire way to make an impression on potential clients. Gary, a wedding photographer, knows this all too well. He has found success in dressing up in Harry Potter robes to attract the attention of his ideal clients. Gary also has a website that is full of helpful resources for couples planning weddings, and he is active in Facebook groups, answering questions and providing advice.

By providing helpful resources, Gary is able to attract potential clients and show them that he is the right photographer for them. He also takes it a step further by wearing Harry Potter robes to bridal shows. This not only attracts attention, but it also shows potential clients that he is passionate about his work and that he is the perfect fit for their needs.

Gary's advice is to give off the right vibes. By doing this, you will naturally attract the right clients. He also suggests writing a guide for your ideal clients, such as a guide on how to get perfect photos on a yacht or the best ten places to park your dock for a scenic afternoon. Doing this will help your clients find you and know that you are the right person for them.

Finally, Gary suggests being active in Facebook groups and answering questions. This can help you get your name out there and show potential clients that you are knowledgeable and passionate about your work. By doing this, you can make sure that you are seen and that you stand out from the crowd.

Find your niche and excel.

Everyone needs to find their niche and excel in it. It is important to find a niche that you are passionate about, so that you can be successful. For example, if you are a wedding photographer, you can specialize in a certain type of photography, such as geeky or Harry Potter themed weddings. By specializing in a certain type of photography, you can become an expert in that field and be more successful.

Finding your niche and excelling in it is not always easy. You have to be willing to put in the work and be passionate about what you are doing. You also have to be comfortable with the fact that you may not be the right fit for every client. You have to be okay with the fact that you may not be the right fit for some people, and be confident in the fact that you are the perfect fit for others.

It is important to be knowledgeable about the niche you specialize in. For example, if you specialize in geeky wedding photography, you should be knowledgeable about things like anime, gaming, and other geeky topics. This will help you be able to relate to potential clients and show them that you are knowledgeable and passionate about the niche you specialize in.

Finally, it is important to be active in the community and show your expertise. You can do this by joining Facebook groups and answering questions, or by attending conventions and networking with other professionals. This will help you get your name out there and show potential clients that you are knowledgeable and passionate about your work. By doing this, you can make sure that you are seen and that you stand out from the crowd.

Finding your niche and excelling in it is not always easy, but it is essential for success. You have to be passionate and knowledgeable about the niche you specialize in, and be willing to put in the work to show your expertise. By doing this, you can make sure that you are seen and that you stand out from the crowd.

Find common ground with clients.

One way to make sure you stand out from the crowd is to find common ground with your clients. When you are able to find common ground with your clients, it allows you to connect with them on a deeper level. This connection can be the difference between a successful business relationship and one that fails.

For example, if you are a wedding photographer and your clients are into geeky things, you can use that as a way to connect with them. Instead of using typical prompts and poses, you can use games and improv to make the experience more fun for them. This will show your clients that you are interested in them and that you understand their interests.

In addition to finding common ground with your clients, you also need to be able to talk to them about their needs. This can be done by having conversations with them before their wedding about certain types of photos they want. By doing this, you are able to make sure that all their needs are met.

Finally, you need to be able to show your clients that you are passionate about what you do. People are drawn to passionate and interesting people, so make sure to show your enthusiasm. This will help to draw people in and show them that you are an expert in your field.

Finding common ground with your clients is essential for success. By connecting with them on a deeper level, you can make sure that they are getting the best experience possible. In addition, by showing your passion and enthusiasm, you can draw people in and make sure that they come back for more.

Challenge yourself with unique ideas.

As a wedding photographer, Gary knows the importance of connecting with his clients. He prides himself in being able to think outside of the box and come up with unique ideas that will wow his clients. He has a story about a couple who wanted a Patronus photo. Gary had never done this before, but he was determined to make it happen. He spent eight hours on his computer, figuring out how to make the photo perfect. His dedication and hard work paid off, and the couple was thrilled with the final product.

This story is an excellent example of how Gary is always pushing himself to do better. By challenging himself to come up with new ideas, he ensures that his clients are getting the best experience possible. Not only does this make his clients happy, but it also makes him stand out from the competition.

Challenging yourself with unique ideas is a great way to keep things interesting and exciting. It not only helps you to stand out from the competition, but it also helps you to create a memorable experience for your clients. By pushing yourself to come up with new and innovative ideas, you can ensure that your clients are getting the best experience possible.

Be creative and flexible.

This is something that I have personally experienced as a photographer. Recently, I was asked to take a photo of a couple dressed up as mummies. Instead of just taking a standard photo, I wanted to find a way to make the photo look like a mummy. This required me to learn a lot of new skills, such as video game design and Photoshop. Despite the extra effort it took, I was able to create a unique photo that the couple was very pleased with.

This experience has taught me that it is important to be creative and flexible when it comes to photography. By pushing myself to try new things and go above and beyond for my clients, I am able to create unique and memorable experiences that they will remember for years to come. It is also important to be upfront with clients about the extra time and effort that may be required to create something special. This way, they can be prepared for the extra cost and appreciate the effort that goes into creating something unique.

Overall, it is important to be creative and flexible when it comes to photography. By pushing yourself to come up with new ideas and being upfront with clients about the extra effort and cost involved, you can create a unique and memorable experience for your clients. Doing so will help you to stand out from the competition and ensure that your clients are getting the best experience possible.

Enjoy your niche passion.

One way to stand out is to niche down and focus on a specific area of photography. This can be anything from military couples, animal photography, prints, black and white weddings, or even something like motorcycle couples or tattooed couples. It all depends on what you are passionate about and knowledgeable in. For example, if you are passionate about Harry Potter, you can focus on creating Harry Potter themed weddings and styled shoots. This will allow you to connect with clients who are looking for something unique and special.

No matter what niche you choose, it is important to be passionate about it and knowledgeable in it. You should be able to talk about the topic with ease and have a good understanding of the problems that your clients may have and the solutions that they need. Additionally, you should be able to show them examples of your work so that they can get a better idea of what you can do.

By enjoying your niche passion, you can create a unique and memorable experience for your clients. You will stand out from the competition and be able to provide your clients with the best experience possible. So take the time to find your niche and enjoy it!

Know your worth.

In this podcast, Gary Pope talks about the importance of “knowing your worth” when it comes to photography. He explains that by niching down, you can charge more for your services and be more successful. He also emphasizes the importance of doing your research to make sure that you are in a popular enough niche to have customers.

Gary also talks about the importance of understanding your abilities and deliverables. He explains that you have to understand what you are able to deliver and what the job entails so that you can provide the best experience possible. He also advises to bake the extra effort into your price so that you are not giving away the farm.

It is important to know your worth when it comes to any business, especially photography. You have to understand your abilities and deliverables and be able to price yourself accordingly. It is also important to do research to make sure that you are in a popular enough niche to have customers. By knowing your worth, you can provide your clients with the best experience possible and be successful in your business.

BPP 347: Stephanie Robinson - Ambition Meets Passion: A Photographic Journey of Determination

Stephanie Robinson is a Denver-based wedding and elopement photographer and a member of the Beginner Photography Podcast community. Growing up, Stephanie had an affinity for photography and was encouraged by her dad who, like her, was a photography enthusiast. After having her own Covid wedding, Stephanie decided to take the plunge into professional photography and left law school, where she was studying. Stephanie noted that with photography, her left brain and right brain are equally used, which is something she found satisfying and engaging.

Big Take Aways

• Learned photography with engineering background

• Work to capture authentic moments

• Prioritize urgent projects first

• Back up your data

• Be confident and prepared

• Authenticity is key

• Build a sustainable business model

• Invest in help for success

• Track analytics to succeed

Resources:

• Check out Denver wedding and elopement photographer Stephanie Robinson’s website

• Follow Stephanie on Instagram

• Follow Stephanie on TikTok

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Group!

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great guests!

Learn photography with engineering background.

Photography is a creative art form that is often considered to be a difficult skill to learn. However, for those with an engineering background, the technical aspects of photography can come more naturally. Stephanie Robinson is a perfect example of this. Growing up with a photography enthusiast father, she was exposed to cameras at a young age. And when she was 17, Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, and the one thing that her family was able to save were their family photos, showing how important photography was to her family. After graduating from law school, Stephanie realized that she didn't want to be a lawyer and decided to pursue photography full-time.

Stephanie found that her engineering background helped her to understand the technical aspects of photography more quickly. She was used to operating large scale machinery and complex projects, so the technical aspects of photography came more easily to her. She also found that photography was a great way to use both her creative and scientific sides, making her feel fully engaged in the process.

Stephanie's story is a great example of how an engineering background can be used to learn photography. It shows that with the right mix of skills and passion, photography can be a great career path for those with an engineering background. With an understanding of the technical aspects of photography, those with an engineering background can use their knowledge to create amazing photographs.

Capture authentic moments.

Stephanie's story also shows the importance of capturing authentic moments in photography. As a wedding photographer, Stephanie strives to capture moments that are real and meaningful to her clients. She talks about how she describes her posing and directing strategies as a kind of meditation, helping her clients to relax and connect to the moment. By doing this, she is able to capture authentic moments that are unique to each couple.

The key to capturing authentic moments is to understand the people in front of the camera. Stephanie talks about how she gets a sense of how the couple interacts with each other and then uses prompts and games that fit their personalities. This allows her to create images that are unique to the couple and capture their personalities in a way that is true to them.

Capturing authentic moments is an important part of photography and something that all photographers should strive for. Stephanie's story is a great example of how understanding the technical aspects of photography and having an understanding of the people in front of the camera can help create amazing images that are true to the people in them.

Prioritize urgent projects first.

Stephanie started her journey in photography by taking a year to learn the technical aspects of studio photography. She then transitioned into shooting weddings, but the goal was always to get to weddings. Her focus on client experience has been paramount since day one, and it starts from the first interaction. She takes the time to get to know her clients, and makes sure to provide them with a style guide, answer questions, and provide location recommendations.

One of the biggest challenges Stephanie has faced in her business is balance. There is always more to be done, and it can be difficult to prioritize what needs to be done first. Stephanie has learned to prioritize urgent projects first. This means engaging in Facebook groups and seeing what issues are coming up for other photographers. This helps her identify what needs to be done first and what can wait.

Stephanie's story is a great example of how important it is to prioritize urgent projects first. By understanding the needs of her clients and keeping up with trends in the industry, she is able to provide a better service and create amazing images. By focusing on the urgent projects first, she is able to ensure that her clients are taken care of and that her business is running smoothly.

Back up your data.

Back up your data is one of those projects that is often overlooked until it is too late. We have all heard stories of photographers who have lost hundreds of images due to a computer crash or other disaster. It is heartbreaking for both the photographer and the clients, as all of their hard work is gone in an instant. Unfortunately, this is a reality for many photographers and it can be incredibly difficult to recover from.

That is why it is so important to back up your data. By having multiple copies of your images stored in multiple locations, you can ensure that your data is safe and secure. The three, two, one backup rule is a great way to ensure that your data is properly backed up. This rule states that you should have three copies of your files on two mediums with at least one of them being offsite. This way, if something were to happen to one of your copies, you would still have two other copies to fall back on.

By investing in data management, Stephanie was able to ensure that her clients would not have to experience the same heartache that she had read about. By having a solid data management system in place, she was able to provide a better service to her clients and feel confident in her ability to deliver.

Data management is an important part of any business, and it is essential for photographers to ensure that their data is properly backed up. By investing in a data management system and following the three, two, one backup rule, photographers can ensure that their data is safe and secure. No one wants to experience the heartache of losing their images, and by taking the time to back up your data, you can ensure that your images are safe and secure.

Be confident and prepared.

In addition to data management, photographers should also be confident and prepared when heading into a shoot. Trevor Burrussell, a photographer, shared his experience of his first wedding shoot and the importance of being prepared. He had never shot a wedding before, but he was confident in his camera fundamentals. When he arrived, he was informed that the lead photographer had COVID and was leaving. Burrussell was now the only photographer for the wedding, and he had no idea how a wedding day was supposed to flow.

In order to be prepared, Burrussell had to take a few steps. He asked the lead photographer how many weddings he had shot before, and when he found out it was zero, he had to take the situation as it was. He gave it his best and the client was thrilled with the results. This experience taught Burrussell the importance of being prepared and confident.

When heading into a shoot, photographers should always be prepared and confident. Preparation can include researching the location, looking into the couple’s story, and having a plan for the shoot. Being confident can help a photographer stay focused and on task, and it can also help them create a better experience for their clients. By being prepared and confident, photographers can ensure that their clients are satisfied with the results.

Data management and being prepared and confident are essential for photographers. Data management helps photographers keep their images safe and secure, while being prepared and confident helps them create a better experience for their clients. By investing in a data management system and taking the time to be prepared and confident, photographers can ensure that their clients are satisfied with the results.

Authenticity is key.

However, there is more to photography than just data management and being prepared and confident. The key to creating successful and beautiful images is authenticity. Authenticity is the key to creating images that capture the true emotions of the subjects and evoke a sense of connection with the viewer.

Authenticity is the key to creating images that capture the true emotions of the subjects and evoke a sense of connection with the viewer. It is important for photographers to be able to capture the emotions of their subjects in order to create photos that are meaningful and memorable. Photographers need to be able to connect with their subjects in order to capture the true emotions of the moment. This can be done through conversation, body language, and understanding the individual.

In order to capture authentic images, photographers need to be present in the moment. They need to be able to observe and appreciate the beauty of the moment and capture it in a way that conveys the emotion of the moment. This requires photographers to be in tune with their subjects and to be able to capture the emotion of the moment without being intrusive.

Authenticity is also important for creating images that evoke a sense of connection with the viewer. Photographers need to be able to capture the emotion of the moment in a way that allows the viewer to relate to the image. This can be done through composition, lighting, and perspective. Photographers need to be able to create images that are meaningful and that evoke a sense of connection with the viewer.

Authenticity is key to creating successful and beautiful images. By investing in data management and being prepared and confident, photographers can ensure that their images are safe and secure. But it is also important for photographers to be able to capture the true emotions of their subjects and create images that evoke a sense of connection with the viewer. By taking the time to be present in the moment and capture the emotion of the moment, photographers can create images that are meaningful and memorable.

Build a sustainable business model.

When it comes to running a photography business, it is also important to have a sustainable business model. Having a sustainable business model means that the business is capable of sustaining itself financially and is able to grow and expand over time. It also means that the business is able to provide quality services and products to its customers and is able to remain competitive.

One way to build a sustainable business model is to invest in data management. Data management is the process of collecting, organizing, and analyzing data to make informed decisions. By investing in data management, photographers can ensure that their images are safe and secure and that they are able to make informed decisions about their business operations. Data management also helps photographers keep track of their customers, their products, and their services, so that they can better serve their customers and provide them with quality services and products.

Another way to build a sustainable business model is to invest in marketing. Marketing is the process of creating, communicating, delivering, and exchanging offerings that have value for customers, clients, partners, and society at large. By investing in marketing, photographers can reach out to potential customers and inform them about their services and products. It also helps photographers build relationships with their customers, which can help them build a loyal customer base and increase their profits.

Finally, it is important to invest in education. Education is the process of acquiring knowledge, skills, values, beliefs, and habits. By investing in education, photographers can stay up to date on the latest trends and techniques in photography and can learn new ways to improve their skills and services. Through education, photographers can also gain valuable insights into their industry, which can help them make better decisions and stay competitive.

In conclusion, building a sustainable business model is essential for photographers who want to remain competitive and successful. By investing in data management, marketing, and education, photographers can create a business model that is sustainable and can help them grow and expand their business. By being present in the moment and capturing the emotion of the moment, photographers can create images that are meaningful and memorable. Taking the time to build a sustainable business model can help photographers succeed and create a successful business for themselves.

Invest in help for success.

Investing in help is an important part of creating a successful business model. Whether it is hiring a virtual assistant, social media manager, or data manager, investing in help can help photographers take their business to the next level. Investing in help can help photographers save time and energy, allowing them to focus on the more important aspects of their business. Investing in help can also help photographers stay ahead of the competition by providing them with the most up-to-date information and marketing strategies.

Stephanie Robinson, a photographer and business owner, experienced the importance of investing in help first hand. After getting shadow banned on Instagram, Stephanie realized that she needed to diversify her efforts and invest in help. She invested in a social media manager and quickly realized the benefits. Not only did she save time and energy, but she was also able to focus on the more important aspects of her business.

Investing in help is an important part of creating a successful business model. It can help photographers save time and energy and focus on the more important aspects of their business. It can also help photographers stay ahead of the competition and provide them with the most up-to-date information and marketing strategies. Investing in help can be the key to success for photographers who want to remain competitive and successful.

Track analytics to succeed.

One of the most important tools for tracking the success of a photography business is analytics. Analytics provide valuable insights into how a business is performing and what areas need improvement. This can help photographers identify areas where they need to focus their attention and resources. Analytics can also provide data on customer behavior, which can help photographers understand what types of customers are most likely to purchase their services.

Analytics can help photographers make informed decisions about which platforms to focus their marketing efforts on. By tracking the performance of their social media accounts, photographers can identify which platforms are the most effective in terms of generating leads and inquiries. This can help photographers decide which platforms they should invest more time and resources into. Additionally, tracking analytics can help photographers identify which types of content are the most successful in terms of engagement and reach. This can help photographers create more effective content that resonates with their target audience.

Analytics can also help photographers identify which areas of their business are the most profitable. By tracking customer inquiries, photographers can identify which services are most in demand and which services generate the most revenue. This can help photographers focus their efforts on the services that are the most profitable and help them maximize their profits.

Tracking analytics is essential for photographers who want to remain competitive and successful. By tracking analytics, photographers can identify areas of their business that need improvement and focus their efforts on the most profitable services. Additionally, tracking analytics can help photographers identify which platforms are the most effective in terms of generating leads and inquiries. Investing in help and tracking analytics can be the key to success for photographers who want to remain competitive and successful.

BPP 346: Tavia Redburn - Getting Started with Birth Photography: Perfect Little Memories

Today we are chatting with birth photographer Tavia Redburn and we get real technical about what you need and what you need to know before shooting your first birth session! In this episode Tavia talks about how she got interested in photography and the experiences that led her to becoming a birth photographer. She teaches beginners the technical aspects of the craft and encourages them to practice as much as possible for better results.

Theres this phrase that says, you’re only an expert on something if you can explain it to a 5 year old and today, that is me, I may as well be a 5 year old with how little I know about birth photography and Tavia explains it as an expert and in a very pragmatic way that I know many of you will appreciate! She also host the From better half to boss podcast which is focused on the business side of photography but if you like Tavia’s teaching style here today, be sure to check out her podcast as well!

The Big Ideas

• Learn to use the tools you have.

• Capture special moments.

• Control camera settings to capture vision.

• Capture moments authentically.

• Look for small details.

• Communicate expectations clearly.

• Embrace the grain in low light.

• Control light with flash.

Timestamps

• 00:05:17 Learn to use ingredients available.

• 00:10:05 Photograph Anything and Everything.

• 00:17:51 Adding a family member through birth.

• 00:24:20 Control your camera for best results.

• 00:25:11 Capture moments as they happen.

• 00:31:20 Capture meaningful moments.

• 00:40:25 Communicate non-negotiables upfront.

• 00:47:47 Embrace the grain in birth photography.

• 00:50:05 Control your light with flash.

Resources:

• Tavia Redburn’s birth photography education website

• Follow Tavia on Instagram

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Learn to use the tools you have.

When it comes to photography, it can be easy to get caught up in the idea that the latest and greatest camera will automatically make you a better photographer. Unfortunately, as many of us have experienced, this isn't always the case. Tavia Redburn, a birth photographer, experienced this firsthand when she purchased a DSLR camera in 2009. She quickly realized that her photos were actually worse with the nicer camera than with her point and shoot camera. She learned that the key to taking great photos is not necessarily the camera, but rather learning how to use the tools and ingredients you have available to you.

This lesson is applicable to more than just photography. Whether you're a student, an athlete, or an artist, it's important to learn how to use the tools you have in order to make the most of them. For example, if you're a student, you may have access to a lot of resources such as textbooks and online tutorials. It's important to take the time to learn how to use these resources in order to get the most out of them. Similarly, if you're an athlete, you may have access to a gym and a personal trainer. By taking the time to learn how to use the equipment and the advice of your trainer, you can become a better athlete.

The same goes for art. Whether you're a painter, a sculptor, or a musician, it's important to take the time to learn how to use the tools and materials you have. For example, if you're a painter, it's important to learn about different brushstrokes, color mixing, and composition. If you're a musician, it's important to learn about different musical scales and chords. By taking the time to learn how to use the tools and materials you have, you can become a better artist.

In conclusion, it's important to remember that the tools and materials we have available to us are only as good as our ability to use them. Whether you're a photographer, a student, an athlete, or an artist, it's important to take the time to learn how to use the tools you have in order to make the most of them.

Capture special moments.

This is especially true when it comes to capturing special moments. Whether it's a wedding, a birth, or a family reunion, having the skill and knowledge to use the tools you have to capture these moments is invaluable. This was certainly the case for the podcast guest, who spent months learning how to use her camera in order to capture the images she envisioned.

It's also important to remember that learning to use the tools you have is only the first step. Once you have the skill, you must also have the passion and persistence to use it. It's easy to get discouraged when things don't go as planned, but it's important to keep pushing forward and learning.

Finally, it's important to remember that the moments we capture with our cameras are priceless. They are memories that will be cherished for years to come, and they are worth the effort and investment it takes to capture them. Whether you're a professional photographer or an amateur, taking the time to learn the tools and techniques of photography will help you make the most of the moments you capture.

Add a new family member.

Birth photography is a unique genre of photography that captures the moment a new family member arrives. It is a special moment that is often filled with emotion, and it is a moment that deserves to be documented and remembered for years to come. Birth photography is not just about capturing the baby, but also about capturing the mother's experience of becoming a mother. It is an intentional focus on the mother's journey and the joy of welcoming a new family member.

When I think back to my first experiences with birth photography, I remember the challenges I faced. Lighting, where to stand, who would be there, and so many other variables were all unknowns. But I also remember the moment when the mother saw her baby for the first time. Every mother has a different reaction, and it is a moment that is so unique and special that it is impossible to capture without a photo.

The biggest challenge that I faced when I first started birth photography was nailing focus. Births happen quickly and unexpectedly, and you never know where the baby will be placed or how quickly they will arrive. It takes practice and experience to be able to anticipate these moments and capture them in focus. Additionally, it takes practice to be able to tell the story of the birth in a way that is meaningful and impactful.

Birth photography is an incredible way to document the arrival of a new family member. It captures the emotion of the moment and allows us to look back and cherish it for years to come. It is important to remember that it takes time and practice to perfect the art of birth photography, but the results are always worth it. With the right tools and techniques, you can create beautiful images that will be cherished for years to come.

Control camera settings to capture vision.

One key technique for capturing the perfect birth photo is controlling camera settings. Camera settings are the building blocks of photography and are essential for capturing the vision you have in your head. Knowing how to use the right settings for the right situation can make all the difference in the quality of your photos.

When it comes to birth photography, it is important to think about the three main phases of labor – labor, the I-did-it moment, and the postpartum period. Each phase requires different camera settings in order to capture the emotion and tell the story of the birth. During labor, the photographer should focus on capturing the whole room, the small details, and the perspectives from higher and lower angles. This will help to create a sense of atmosphere and show the emotion that is present in the room. The I-did-it moment is the moment of birth and should be captured with a wide angle lens to capture the entire event. The postpartum period is when the family meets the baby for the first time, and the photographer should focus on capturing the emotion of the moment and the details of the baby.

When it comes to capturing the emotion of the moment, it is important to pay attention to the small details. If the family has gone through IVF or has experienced a loss before this birth, the photographer should be aware of the emotions that may come up and capture them in their photos. They should also be aware of any special items that the family may bring to honor the baby that was lost. This will help to create a more personalized birth story that will be cherished for years to come.

In conclusion, controlling camera settings is an essential part of capturing the perfect birth photo. By paying attention to the three phases of labor, the emotions of the moment, and the details of the birth, the photographer can create beautiful images that will be cherished for years to come.

Capture moments authentically.

Capturing moments authentically is a skill that requires practice and dedication. To do this, a photographer must be mindful of the emotions of the moment, the details that make it unique, and the camera settings that will bring out the best in the image. The key is to be present in the moment and to be prepared to capture the beauty, joy, and love that comes with birth.

When it comes to birth photography, the photographer must be mindful of the three phases of labor. During the first phase, the mother is in the early stages of labor. During the second phase, the mother is in active labor and the baby is about to be born. During the third phase, the baby is born and the mother and father are celebrating the birth of their new baby. Each phase has its own unique set of emotions and details that the photographer must capture in order to create an authentic image.

The emotions of the moment are also important to capture. The photographer must be able to read the room and capture the feelings of joy, love, and excitement that come with the birth of a baby. It is important to capture the details of the birth, such as the doctor handing the baby off to the parents, the midwife helping the mother, and the expressions of joy on the faces of the family.

Finally, the photographer must be mindful of camera settings. This includes the aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and focal point. The aperture should be wide open to allow for more light to enter the camera, the shutter speed should be fast enough to freeze the moment, the ISO should be low to reduce noise, and the focal point should be on the subject to ensure that the image is in focus.

By understanding the three phases of labor, the emotions of the moment, and the details of the birth, the photographer can create beautiful images that will be cherished for years to come. With practice and dedication, a photographer can capture moments authentically and create images that will last a lifetime.

Look for small details.

One of the most important aspects of birth photography is to look for small details. A photographer must be a fly on the wall, capturing the moments as they happen without intruding on the process. This means looking for the small moments that make the birth unique. A mother’s expression of joy when the baby is born, the way the family looks at each other, the details of the room, and the emotions of the moment. All of these details can be captured in a single photo and tell the story of the birth in a powerful way.

The photographer must also understand the three phases of labor. Early labor, active labor, and the pushing phase. Early labor is the longest phase and is usually the most boring for the photographer. During this time, the photographer should be relaxed and present, but not taking photos. This allows the mother to take a break from the intensity of labor and allows the photographer to be ready for when things start to get serious.

Once active labor begins, the photographer should be ready to capture the moments as they happen. This is the time when the mother is in the most pain and the family is the most emotional. It is important to capture these moments authentically and without intruding on the process. The photographer should also be aware of the family’s wishes. Some families may want the raw, emotional moments captured while others may want the more portrait-style images.

Finally, the photographer should be prepared to stay two hours after the baby is born. This is the time for the family to bond and for the photographer to capture the joy and emotion of the moment. This is also the time for the photographer to capture the small details that make the birth unique. The mother’s expression of joy, the family’s reaction to the baby, and the details of the room. All of these details can be captured in a single photo and tell the story of the birth in a powerful way.

By understanding the three phases of labor, the emotions of the moment, and the details of the birth, the photographer can create beautiful images that will be cherished for years to come. With practice and dedication, a photographer can capture moments authentically and create images that will last a lifetime.

Communicate expectations clearly.

However, the process of capturing these moments can be a difficult one, especially when the photographer is on call. Being on call means that the photographer must be available at any time to take pictures of a birth. This can be a challenge, as the photographer must make plans in their personal life while also being ready and available to take pictures at any time.

The key to successfully managing being on call is to communicate expectations clearly. It is important for the photographer to let their clients know what their availability is and when they can and cannot be available. This way, the client has an understanding of the photographer’s availability and can plan accordingly. Additionally, the photographer should explain the importance of using a flash and how it can help to create flattering images in difficult lighting situations. By providing this information up front, the photographer can ensure that their clients are comfortable with the process and understand what to expect.

Finally, the photographer should also explain how they handle emergency situations. By letting the client know that they have backups who are trained and trusted to take photos in their absence, the client can feel confident that their photos will be taken care of, even if the photographer is not available.

By communicating expectations clearly, a photographer can ensure that their clients understand the process and feel comfortable with the photographer’s availability. This will help to create a trusting relationship between the photographer and the client and ensure that the photos taken are of the highest quality.

Embrace the grain in low light.

One of the most challenging aspects of photography is shooting in low light. Low light photography requires a photographer to use a higher ISO, which can lead to grainy photos. Tavia, a birth photographer, explains that embracing the grain is the best way to get the desired results in low light.

Tavia explains that the best way to master low light photography is to practice with a speed light at home. This is the most similar to a hospital or home birth environment because it is indoors and only has window light. Practicing with a speed light will help a photographer understand what different angles and heights look like when bounced off the wall.

In addition to using a speed light, Tavia suggests slightly overexposing the photos when using a high ISO. This will help reduce the grain and make the photos look less grainy. She also encourages photographers to embrace the grain, as this is an unavoidable aspect of birth photography.

In conclusion, low light photography can be a challenge for photographers. However, by using a speed light and slightly overexposing the photos, photographers can get the desired results in low light. Understanding how to use the exposure triangle and embracing the grain are key to getting the best results in low light photography.

Control light with flash.

One of the key takeaways from the podcast was the importance of light and being able to control it. This is especially true when it comes to birth photography. Birth photography is a one and done thing, so capturing the right moments is key. Being able to control the light is essential to getting the desired results.

Using a speed light is a great way to control the light when shooting in low light. A speed light is a small flash that can be attached to a camera and used to provide additional light to the subject. By using a speed light, photographers can get the desired results in low light without having to worry about the available light.

In addition to using a speed light, photographers should also slightly overexpose the photos when shooting in low light. This will help to ensure that the photos have enough light and that the colors are vibrant. Overexposing the photos will also help to reduce the amount of grain in the photos, which can be an issue when shooting in low light.

Understanding the exposure triangle is also key to getting the best results in low light photography. The exposure triangle consists of the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. Each of these settings can be adjusted to get the desired results in low light. By understanding how these settings work and how they interact with each other, photographers can get the desired results in low light.

Finally, embracing the grain is also key to getting the best results in low light photography. Grain is an unavoidable part of low light photography, but it can be used to create a unique look for the photos. By embracing the grain, photographers can create photos that have a unique look and feel.

Overall, understanding how to control light and embrace the grain are key to getting the best results in low light photography. By using a speed light and slightly overexposing the photos, photographers can get the desired results in low light. Understanding the exposure triangle and embracing the grain are also key to getting the best results in low light photography.

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

BPP 345: Chrystofer Davis - Documenting Local Lives Through the Lens of a Film Photographer

Chrystofer Davis, is a documentary film street photographer in Newark New Jersey. His work has been shared in the Metropolitan Museum, the Schomburg, and the Newark Museum. Hes able to connect with his subjects quickly have them relax and then take a portrait of them. In this interview Chrystofer shares how he got started in photography at a young age. Through a memorable experience with his parents on a trip to Nassau, Chrystofer was given a Fujifilm disposable camera and taken a picture of a stairway that was perfectly composed with the sun shining through the windows. This visually striking moment motivated him to pursue photography professionally.

The Big Ideas:

• Capture meaningful memories on film.

• Film photography pushed career forward.

• Film for archival purposes.

• Print your photos for longevity.

• Impact one person at a time.

• Honor your cities culture and people.

• Connect with people through photography.

• Learn from rejection and move on.

• Build rapport with subjects.

• Find the camera that fits you.

• Care for people and your city.

Timestamps:

• 00:09:01 Shoot with intention and passion.

• 00:16:04 Film photography for archival purposes.

• 00:22:45 Print photos for lasting memories.

• 00:25:53 Impact one person at a time.

• 00:30:07 Honor the past to build the future.

• 00:38:59 Connect with kindness and enthusiasm.

• 00:44:43 Be respectful and apologetic.

• 00:46:10 Build rapport before photographing.

• 00:56:57 Find a camera that fits you.

• 00:58:13 Document people's stories.

Resources:

• Chrystofer Davis’s website

• Follow Chrys on Instagram

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Capture meaningful memories on film.

Photography has the power to capture meaningful memories and tell stories that can last a lifetime. For many, the journey of becoming a photographer begins with a single moment that sparks an interest in the craft. For documentary street photographer Chrystofer Davis, that moment happened when he was eight or nine years old. On a family vacation in Nassau, Bahamas, Chrystofer asked his mom for her Fujifilm disposable camera and took a photo of a stairway with the sun in the middle. In that moment, Chrystofer knew that he wanted to pursue photography.

Years later, when Chrystofer was in high school, his social studies teacher gave him a Canon 5d to take photos of the students and staff for the yearbook. This experience further solidified Christopher’s interest in photography and eventually led him to pursue it professionally.

Chrystofer’s photos are more than just street photography; they are a way of capturing who the community is and preserving meaningful memories. His photos are about people and connection, rather than light and lines. Chrystofer achieves this by building relationships with the people he photographs and getting to know them on a deeper level. He also chooses to shoot on film, which gives his photos a timeless quality and allows him to capture moments that are more meaningful and authentic.

By capturing meaningful memories on film, Chrystofer is able to preserve stories and moments that may otherwise be forgotten. His photos become a way of documenting history and creating a lasting legacy. Through his work, Chrystofer is able to capture the beauty of the world and share it with others.

Film photography pushed career forward.

Chrystofer's journey into film photography began in 2009, when he was attending Bluefield College. At the time, the college was canceling its photography program, so Chrystofer decided to pursue video instead. During his time at the college, Christopher would often take photos of his friends and the people he encountered on campus. He even organized a day where he invited people to come and take photos. This was a great way for him to introduce himself and his work to the public.

In 2016, Chrystofer decided to try out film photography with a fisheye camera. This was a turning point in his career, as he was now able to capture moments in a way that was more meaningful and personal. He was able to create a unique style of photography that was unlike anything else.

Chrystofer's film photography has pushed his career forward in a big way. He has been able to collaborate with graphic designers and has even had the opportunity to work on an internship with Damon John. Chrystofer's work has been featured in commercials, music videos, and even on his own blog.

Chrystofer has found a way to use film photography to capture the beauty of the world and share it with others. His work has allowed him to create a lasting legacy and document history. Through his passion for film photography, Chrystofer has been able to push his career forward and create a unique style of photography that is all his own.

Film for archival purposes.

Chrystofer’s journey began when he decided to go back to the origins of photography and shoot on celluloid film. He went to CVS to have his film developed, only to find out that there was nothing on the film. This setback was disheartening, but Chrystofer was determined to not let it stop him. He decided to pick up a Canon rangefinder and take his time to write down the notes of his shots, such as the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.

By taking his time and writing down his notes, Chrystofer was able to capture moments in the city of Newark that would otherwise be lost to time. He was able to document the changes in the city and capture moments that would otherwise be forgotten. He was also able to break through his fear of the unknown and take portraits of strangers on the street.

Chrystofer’s work has allowed him to create a lasting legacy and document history. He has been able to use film photography to capture the beauty of the world and share it with others. Through his passion for film photography, Chrystofer has been able to push his career forward and create a unique style of photography that is all his own.

Chrystofer’s use of film photography is not only for aesthetic purposes, but also for archival purposes. He is aware that digital media can become outdated and can be lost due to software updates. Chrystofer wants his work to outlive him, and so he chooses to use film photography to ensure that his work will last.

Chrystofer’s use of film photography is an inspiring example of how one can use photography to document and preserve history. By taking his time and writing down his notes, Chrystofer has been able to capture moments in the city of Newark that would otherwise be lost to time. His passion for film photography has allowed him to create a lasting legacy and document history. Chrystofer’s use of film photography for archival purposes is an inspiring example of how one can use photography to create a lasting legacy and preserve history.

Print your photos for longevity.

In today’s digital age, it is easy to take photos and share them with the world. However, it is also easy to forget about the photos we take and the memories that they capture. Digital photos can easily be lost or forgotten due to hard drive crashes, computer viruses, or simply not backing up our photos. This is why it is important to print our photos for longevity.

Printing our photos allows us to create tangible memories that will last for years. We can store them in albums or frames, or even keep them in a safe place. This allows us to look back on our memories and relive them. We can also share our memories with others, as physical photos are easier to share than digital ones.

Printing our photos also ensures that our photos will be preserved for future generations. We can pass down our photos to our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. This way, they can look back on our memories and learn more about who we were.

Vivian Meyer is an inspiring example of the longevity of printed photos. Meyer was a nanny who loved to take photos on the street, but her closest friends didn’t even know she was a photographer. It wasn’t until 2006 that someone found a case of her rolls of film and went through them. This discovery revealed a treasure trove of photos from the 1950s and 60s that showed life in Chicago, New York, and other places Meyer had traveled. This discovery shows how powerful printed photos can be.

Chrystofer’s use of film photography is an inspiring example of how one can use photography to document and preserve history. By printing our photos, we can ensure that our memories will be preserved for future generations and that our photos will last for years to come. So, let’s make sure to print our photos for longevity and create a lasting legacy.

Impact one person at a time.

Chrystofer’s approach to photography is to “impact one person at a time”. He believes in the power of photography to document and tell stories of people’s lives, and he has seen firsthand the impact that his photos have had on the people he has photographed. Chrystofer has taken portraits of people in his community of Newark, New Jersey, and he takes the time to sit with them and learn their stories. He then prints the photos and frames them for the people he has photographed, which has brought them joy and made them feel seen and appreciated.

Chrystofer’s approach is an inspiring example of how we can use photography to make a difference. We can use our photos to document and tell stories of people’s lives, and to make them feel seen and appreciated. We can also use our photos to spread positivity and show the beauty of the people and places around us. By taking the time to get to know people and document their stories, we can make a lasting impact on the people in our communities.

Chrystofer’s approach to photography is an inspiring example of how we can use our photos to make a difference. By taking the time to get to know people and document their stories, we can make a lasting impact on the people in our communities. We can use our photos to document and tell stories of people’s lives, to make them feel seen and appreciated, and to spread positivity and show the beauty of the people and places around us. Let’s make sure to print our photos for longevity and create a lasting legacy.

Honor your cities culture and people.

Chrystofer’s story is a great example of how we can honor Newark’s culture and people. He has taken the time to get to know the people in his community, such as Sydney, a vendor who has been around since the 90s. Chrystofer has been able to capture the essence of his story and the culture of Newark by taking the time to learn about him and tell his story.

In addition to honoring the people of Newark, Chrystofer has also been able to honor the city’s history. He has been able to document the origins of film in Newark, which was birthed in an attic by Reverend Hannibal Goodwin. Chrystofer is also teaching people of all ages how to shoot film, develop film, and make silver gelatin prints at the Newark Print Shop. By teaching others how to use film, Chrystofer is not only honoring the history of the city, but also helping to create a lasting legacy.

We can all learn from Chrystofer’s example and take the time to honor Newark’s culture and people. Let’s take the time to get to know the people in our communities, document their stories, and create a lasting legacy. By honoring the people and culture of Newark, we can create a positive and lasting impact on our city.

Connect with people through photography.

Chrystofer, a documentary photographer, is a great example of how to connect with people through photography. He has a passion for connecting with people and telling their stories. He approaches each person he meets with a smile and a compliment, and then introduces himself as a documentary photographer. He has a physical copy of his work to show them, and he makes sure to explain that he is not there to exploit them, but to show them that they are beautiful and a great person.

Chrystofer also makes sure to bring extra copies of his book and even an Instax or Polaroid camera to give to the people he photographs. This is a great way to show his appreciation for their time and willingness to be photographed. He also makes sure to get their Instagram, social media, or email address so he can send them the photos.

Chrystofer’s approach to photography is a great reminder that we should take the time to get to know the people in our communities and document their stories. We should be conscious of how we are representing them and make sure that our photos are not weaponized to shame them. We should also make sure to show our appreciation for their time and willingness to be photographed.

By connecting with people through photography, we can create a lasting legacy that honors the culture and people of our city. We can also learn from the stories of the people in our communities and use photography to create a positive and lasting impact on our city.

Learn from rejection and move on.

However, it is not always easy to take photos of strangers. It requires a lot of courage to approach someone, ask them to take a photo, and then take the photo. It can be intimidating and even scary to do this, especially if you are a beginner photographer. But, it is important to understand that it is a part of the process and that rejection is a part of life.

When you approach someone to take their photo, you may be met with a hard no or a negative reaction. This can be discouraging, but it is important to remember that it is not personal. It is important to understand that people may feel uncomfortable or threatened when they are approached by a stranger with a camera. It is important to be respectful and understanding and to not take it personally.

It is also important to remember that rejection is a part of life. Rejection can be a learning experience and can help us grow as photographers. It can help us understand the power of our images and the impact they can have on people. It can also help us understand how to approach people more respectfully and how to create a positive and lasting impact with our photos.

Rejection can be a difficult experience, but it is important to learn from it and move on. We should use it as an opportunity to grow, to understand our craft better, and to create a lasting legacy with our photos.

Build rapport with subjects.

Building rapport with subjects is an essential part of the photography process. It is not only important to create a positive environment for the subject, but it also helps the photographer capture the best possible images. It is important to remember that the subjects of our photographs are human beings, not objects. We should take the time to get to know them, to understand their story, and to create a connection with them.

When approaching a subject, it is important to be aware of the situation and to be respectful. We should be aware of the environment and the subject's feelings, and adjust our approach accordingly. We should also be aware of the potential reactions we may get from the subject, and be prepared to handle them.

It is also important to be understanding and patient with the subject. We should be willing to take the time to listen to their story and to answer any questions they may have. We should also make sure to explain our purpose for taking the photo, and why we think it is important. It is important to create a safe and comfortable environment for the subject, and to make sure that they are comfortable with the process.

Finally, it is important to be open and honest with the subject. We should be honest about our intentions and our goals, and make sure that the subject is aware of our intentions. We should also be honest about our expectations, and make sure that the subject is aware of what we are looking for in the photo.

Building rapport with subjects is an essential part of the photography process. It is important to be respectful, understanding, and honest. It is also important to take the time to get to know the subject, to understand their story, and to create a connection with them. By doing so, we can create better images and create a lasting legacy with our photos.

Find the camera that fits you.

This is something that photographer, Leica user, and Newark native, Antonio, has taken to heart. Antonio had the chance to assist a photographer on a shoot in Newark for a veterans project. While working, the photographer lamented his regret of not getting to know the people he was photographing and their stories. This experience stuck with Antonio and he has since tried to take lessons from the older photographers and apply them to his own work.

When it comes to his own photography, Chrystofer has chosen to use the Leica M6 camera. While there are other cameras that are more technologically advanced and much cheaper, Antonio chose to invest in the Leica. He believes that it is more than just a fashion statement, but rather a well-versed camera that works with him, rather than against him. He appreciates that it is a quiet camera, allowing him to be non-intrusive, and that it is well made. He also appreciates the fact that it has a shutter speed, focus, and aperture control all in one place.

The lesson that Chrystofer has learned is that it is important to find the camera that fits you. Whether it is the Leica M6 or another camera, it is important to find the camera that works best for you and your style of photography. As Chrystofer has experienced, it is not always the most expensive or most advanced camera that will be the best fit. It is important to take the time to try out different cameras, to understand their features, and to find the one that works best for you.

By finding the camera that fits you, you can create better images and build better relationships with your subjects. You will be able to focus more on capturing the moment, rather than worrying about the technical aspects of the camera. This will help you to create a lasting legacy with your photos and to tell the stories of those you photograph.

Care for people and your city.

Chrystofer Davis is a photographer from Newark, New Jersey, and he has dedicated his life to capturing the stories of the people of Newark. He has been able to do this by finding the camera that fits him best. A camera allows him to be less intrusive and to capture the moment without drawing too much attention. He has been able to capture the beauty of the city and its people and has been able to archive his work in highly regarded institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum, the Schomburg, and the Newark Museum.

Davis wants to be remembered for caring for the city of Newark and its people. He wants to show that there are important figures in the city, and that everyone he has put in front of his camera is important. He wants to be remembered for caring for the city when so many others don't and for showing that there is beauty in the city. He wants to be remembered for caring for the people of Newark and for caring for the city in general.

Caring for people and city is an important part of photography. It is not just about taking pictures, but about connecting with people and creating a lasting legacy. It is about capturing the beauty of a city and its people and showing that there is beauty in the world. Christopher Davis has dedicated his life to capturing the stories of the people of Newark, and he wants to be remembered for caring for the people and city of Newark.

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

BPP 344: Manifesto Pt1 - The Goal of Photography is to Enrich the Human Experience

This is Part 1 of my 10 part Photography Manifesto series. In this episode we cover photography manifesto rule number 1, The Goal of Photography is to Enrich the Human Experience. I share with you the importance of photography, the difference between a document and art, and of course HOW you can best make an impact with your photography! To hear the full Photography Manifesto overview episode where I share all 10 manifesto rules listen now https://www.beginnerphotographypodcast.com/podcast/334

Resources:

• Listen to the full Photography Manifesto Episode, BPP 334

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

• Free Lightroom Presets!

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!

BPP 343: Dorie Howell - Trusting Your Inner Photographer: Instincts Over Rules

Dorie Howell has been shooting for years and has seen a lot of photographers who struggle to trust themselves. So today she's going to share some tips for you on how to listen to that artists voice inside you and then actually do the thing! She also shares a great story of how she got.. uncooperative subjects to open up and create an amazing image. Also, because Dorie has been in business a long time, she also shares with us the perfect inquiry email. So if you are struggling with what to say when someone reaches out to you just asking for more information… Dories got you covered today so listen close! 

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• How Dorie got started in photography

• Why Dorie loves capturing portraits

• How to get the moment and make sure you capture what the family wants

• How to trust yourself and your photographic instints

• The importance of getting on the phone with a potential client and what to say

• The Elements of crafting a perfect inquiry email

Resources:

• Photography Business Coach Dorie Howell’s website

• Follow Dorie on Instagram

• Dorie on Youtube

• Dorie on Facebook

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

• Free Lightroom Presets!

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BPP 342: Damien Lovegrove - Discover the Secrets of Capturing Light: A Crash Course on Photographic Lighting

Damien Lovegrove, a BBC trained lighting expert and photographer, joins the Beginner Photography Podcast to talk about his experience with camera movements, lighting, and framing. He explains how he got interested in photography and how he captured stunning shots on film. Damien then shares his process for capturing light and shares how he learned about shutter speed and aperture. He also elaborates on the process of focusing, framing and understanding the controlling elements of exposure in order to create the best pictures.

The Big Ideas:

• Know your exposure elements.

• Learn photography slowly and carefully.

• Working with LED interior lighting

• Take control of light.

• Control light for effect.

• Lighting creates symmetry.

• Get the camera lower.

• Explore light to create style.

• Experiment with different light sources.

Timestamps:

• 00:05:03 Plan and execute shots carefully.

• 00:07:07 Learn photography slowly and carefully.

• 00:18:46 Shoot at lower ISO settings.

• 00:25:19 Take control of light.

• 00:25:37 Control light for impact.

• 00:33:07 Lighting is key to success.

• 00:42:45 Get camera lower for better photos.

• 00:44:37 Explore light to create style.

• 00:50:13 Experiment with light sources.

Resources:

• Damien Lovegrove’s photo blog

• Damien Lovegrove’s travel photography workshops

• Damien Lovegrove’s Youtube Channel

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community

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Know your exposure elements.

Photography is an art form that requires a deep understanding of the elements of exposure. For professional photographers, knowing the basics of shutter speed, aperture, and ISO can mean the difference between an average shot and an award-winning one. This is why it is so important for photographers to understand and master these elements.

Shutter speed is the amount of time the camera shutter is open, allowing light to enter the camera. A fast shutter speed will freeze motion, while a slow shutter speed will blur motion. Aperture is the size of the opening that lets light into the camera. A larger aperture will result in a brighter image, while a smaller aperture will result in a darker image. Finally, ISO is the sensitivity of the camera sensor to light. A higher ISO will result in a brighter image, while a lower ISO will result in a darker image.

By understanding the basics of exposure elements, photographers can take more control of their images. For example, a photographer shooting a portrait may want to use a fast shutter speed to freeze the subject’s motion, a large aperture to produce a shallow depth of field, and a low ISO to minimize noise. On the other hand, a photographer shooting a landscape may want to use a slow shutter speed to blur the movement of clouds or water, a small aperture to increase the depth of field, and a high ISO to maximize the brightness of the image.

In addition to understanding the exposure elements, photographers should also be aware of the effects of different lighting conditions. Hard light, for example, will create strong shadows and contrast, while soft light will create a more even illumination. Photographers can use these lighting conditions to their advantage, creating the atmosphere they want in their images.

These are just a few basics of exposure elements and lighting conditions that photographers should be aware of. By understanding and mastering these elements, photographers can take more control of their images and create stunning works of art.

Learn photography slowly and carefully.

Learning photography can be a daunting task. It takes time, patience, and dedication to master the craft. As a result, it is important to take your time and learn photography slowly and carefully.

One of the most important aspects of learning photography is understanding the basics of exposure. This includes understanding the relationship between shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. By understanding how these three elements work together, photographers can create images with the desired exposure.

In addition to understanding the basics of exposure, photographers should also be aware of the different lighting conditions they may encounter. This includes understanding the basics of natural light, such as how the sun's position affects the quality of light and how to use reflectors to create the desired effect.

Furthermore, it is important to understand the basics of composition. This includes understanding the Rule of Thirds, the use of leading lines, and how to use the elements of design to create an interesting image. By understanding these basics, photographers can create images that are visually pleasing and have a strong impact.

Finally, it is important to understand the basics of post-processing. This includes understanding how to use basic software tools such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom to adjust colors, contrast, and sharpness. By understanding these basics, photographers can create images that look professional and have a consistent look and feel.

In conclusion, learning photography can be a challenging and rewarding experience. By taking the time to learn the basics of exposure, lighting, composition, and post-processing, photographers can create beautiful images that capture the moment and tell a story. With the right amount of dedication and patience, anyone can become a great photographer.

Working with LED interior lighting

One of the most important elements of photography is lighting. For interior photography, LED lighting is becoming increasingly popular. LED lighting is more energy efficient and produces less heat than traditional lighting. It also offers better color accuracy, making it ideal for capturing the details of a space.

LED lighting is also more affordable than traditional lighting and can be used in a variety of ways. LED lighting can be used to create a softer, more even light source or to create dramatic lighting effects. It can also be used to create a variety of color temperatures, making it easier to match the existing lighting of a space.

LED lighting is also more versatile than traditional lighting. It can be used to light a variety of different spaces, from small rooms to large halls. LED lighting can also be used to light a variety of subjects, from people to still life.

LED lighting is also relatively easy to install and maintain. It is more durable than traditional lighting, making it less prone to breakages and malfunctions. Additionally, LED lighting is relatively easy to dim or turn off, making it ideal for creating dramatic lighting effects.

Overall, LED lighting is a great choice for interior photography. It is more energy efficient, more affordable, and more versatile than traditional lighting. It is also easier to install and maintain, making it a great choice for anyone looking to take their photography to the next level.

Take control of light.

When it comes to taking control of light in photography, it is important to understand the basics. First, the photographer needs to understand the basics of exposure and how different settings affect the outcome of a photograph. This includes understanding the effects of shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. It is also important to understand the basics of lighting, such as how to use bounce lighting and how to use a light meter.

Once the basics are understood, the photographer can begin to take control of light. This includes understanding how to use off-camera flash and how to use natural light. It is also important to understand the effects of color temperature and how to manipulate it to create the desired effect.

In addition to understanding the basics, it is important to understand the creative aspects of light. This includes understanding how to use shadows and highlights to create depth and drama. It also includes understanding how to use color to create mood and emotion.

Finally, it is important to understand the importance of post-processing. This includes understanding how to use software to enhance the image and how to use filters to create a unique look.

Taking control of light is an important part of photography and can help photographers create stunning images. Understanding the basics of exposure and lighting, as well as learning how to manipulate shadows and highlights and how to use color to create mood and emotion, can help photographers take control of light and create beautiful images.

Control light for effect.

Light can be used to create different effects and to enhance or diminish certain aspects of a scene. By controlling the amount of light that enters a scene, photographers can create dramatic shadows and highlights, as well as create a certain mood or atmosphere. For example, by closing the curtains and opening them just a bit, a photographer can create a pool of light that will dance across the bed or hit the room in a certain way. This can create a beautiful, romantic image.

In addition to controlling the amount of light that enters a scene, photographers can also manipulate the type of light that is used. Hard light, such as a flash on camera, can be used to create a fashionable look. Soft light, such as a soft box or umbrella, can be used to create a softer, more natural look. By using a combination of both hard and soft light, photographers can create a variety of effects.

When shooting weddings, it is important to balance the amount of light used. A lot of wedding photographers shoot without an assistant or extra help, so they have to decide whether to use a flash or get away with just a base exposure. In such cases, a flash with a stove and dome can be used to create a crisp light that will bring out the colors of the clothing and make the skin look great. By using a combination of ambient light and flash, photographers can create a beautiful blend that will bring out the best of the scene.

In conclusion, controlling light is an important part of photography and can help photographers create stunning images. By understanding the basics of exposure and lighting and learning how to manipulate shadows and highlights and use color to create mood and emotion, photographers can take control of light and create beautiful images.

Lighting creates symmetry.

Lighting is an essential aspect of photography and can be used to create stunning images. When done correctly, lighting can create symmetry in a photo, making it look more balanced and aesthetically pleasing. By understanding the basics of exposure and lighting, photographers can use light to create beautiful images that capture the mood and emotion of a scene.

Lighting can be used to create symmetry in a photo by controlling the shadows and highlights and by manipulating the direction and angle of the light. By positioning the light source close to the camera, photographers can create a hard light that will create a more defined and chiseled look, while using a wide light will create softer shadows that make the face look wider. Additionally, by lighting into the bend of the nose, photographers can create a shadow that will make the nose look straighter.

Color can also be used to create symmetry in a photo. By using warm colors, such as orange and yellow, photographers can create a more inviting and cheerful atmosphere, while using cool colors, such as blue and green, can create a more calming and serene atmosphere. Additionally, by using complementary colors, such as red and green or blue and orange, photographers can create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing image.

Lighting is an essential aspect of photography and can be used to create stunning images. By understanding the basics of exposure and lighting, photographers can use light to create beautiful images that capture the mood and emotion of a scene. Additionally, by controlling the shadows and highlights and manipulating the direction and angle of the light, photographers can create symmetry in a photo, making it look more balanced and aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, by using color to create mood and emotion, photographers can take control of light and create beautiful images.

Get the camera lower.

One of the most important aspects of photography is to get the camera lower. By getting the camera lower, photographers can create a more flattering angle of the subject, making them look more slim and attractive. Additionally, by getting the camera lower, photographers can create a more dynamic composition, allowing them to capture more of the environment and create a more interesting image. Additionally, by getting the camera lower, photographers can create a more intimate connection with their subject, allowing them to capture the emotion and energy of the moment.

When it comes to photographing people, getting the camera lower can be incredibly beneficial. By getting the camera lower, photographers can capture the subject in a more flattering angle, making them look more slim and attractive. Additionally, by getting the camera lower, photographers can create a more intimate connection with the subject, allowing them to capture the emotion and energy of the moment. Additionally, by getting the camera lower, photographers can create a more dynamic composition, allowing them to capture more of the environment and create a more interesting image.

Additionally, when it comes to photographing people, getting the camera lower can be incredibly beneficial. By getting the camera lower, photographers can create a more flattering angle of the subject, making them look more slim and attractive. Additionally, by getting the camera lower, photographers can create a more dynamic composition, allowing them to capture more of the environment and create a more interesting image. Additionally, by getting the camera lower, photographers can create a more intimate connection with their subject, allowing them to capture the emotion and energy of the moment.

In conclusion, getting the camera lower is an essential aspect of photography. By getting the camera lower, photographers can create a more flattering angle of the subject, make them look more slim and attractive, create a more dynamic composition, and create a more intimate connection with their subject. Additionally, by understanding the basics of exposure and lighting, photographers can use light to create beautiful images that capture the mood and emotion of a scene. Additionally, by controlling the shadows and highlights and manipulating the direction and angle of the light, photographers can create symmetry in a photo, making it look more balanced and aesthetically pleasing. Lastly, by using color to create mood and emotion, photographers can take control of light and create beautiful images.

Explore light to create style.

Light is an essential element of photography and it is a tool that photographers can use to create a unique style. By understanding the basics of light, photographers can use it to create a signature look in their images. Photographers can use hard light to create contrast and drama and soft light to create a more subtle, romantic look. Additionally, photographers can use light to create a mood and emotion in a scene. By controlling the shadows and highlights and manipulating the direction and angle of the light, photographers can create a unique look in their images. Additionally, by using color to create mood and emotion, photographers can take control of light and create beautiful images.

Ultimately, light is an essential tool for photographers and by understanding the basics of light and experimenting with different techniques, photographers can create a unique style in their images. By using light to create contrast and drama, to create a mood and emotion, and to manipulate the shadows and highlights, photographers can create beautiful images that capture the mood and emotion of a scene. Additionally, by understanding the basics of exposure and lighting, photographers can use light to create a signature look in their images. With practice and experimentation, photographers can use light to create a unique style in their images.

Experiment with different light sources.

When experimenting with light sources, the first step is to understand the basics of exposure and lighting. By understanding the basics of exposure, photographers can manipulate the shadows and highlights in their images to create a unique look. Additionally, by understanding the basics of lighting, photographers can use light to create a mood and emotion in their images. For example, by using a hard light source, photographers can create a dramatic and contrasty look in their images. On the other hand, by using a soft light source, photographers can create a softer and more subtle look in their images. By understanding the basics of exposure and lighting, photographers can use light to create a unique look in their images.

The second step in experimenting with light sources is to practice and experiment with different techniques. By practicing with different light sources and techniques, photographers can learn how to manipulate the shadows and highlights in their images to create a unique look. Additionally, by experimenting with different techniques, photographers can learn how to use light to create a mood and emotion in their images. For example, by experimenting with hard light sources, photographers can learn how to create a dramatic and contrasty look in their images. On the other hand, by experimenting with soft light sources, photographers can learn how to create a softer and more subtle look in their images. By practicing and experimenting with different techniques, photographers can learn how to use light to create a unique look in their images.

Finally, by understanding the basics of exposure and lighting and experimenting with different techniques, photographers can use light to create a unique style in their images. By understanding the basics of exposure and lighting, photographers can manipulate the shadows and highlights in their images to create a unique look. Additionally, by experimenting with different techniques, photographers can learn how to use light to create a mood and emotion in their images. Ultimately, by understanding the basics of exposure and lighting and experimenting with different techniques, photographers can use light to create a unique style in their images.

Did you enjoy this episode? Check out more recent interviews with other great photographers!