Crafting Impactful Narratives Through Long-Term Projects with Dan Milnor
#553 Dan Milnor is a seasoned photographer with over 25 years of experience. His career began with an unexpected twist when a lost transcript led him to a community college with a renowned journalism program. Milnor narrates his early experiences as a photojournalist, detailing the adrenaline-filled assignments and his eventual transition to documentary photography. The discussion delves into the challenges of keeping photography authentic amidst the current digital age, where social media often overshadows genuine skill and creativity. KEY TOPICS COVEREDDan Milnor's Journey into Photography - Milnor details his unexpected path into photography starting from his interest in storytelling, influenced by his mother’s use of a Pentax K1000, culminating in a scholarship offer at San Antonio College that commenced his education in photojournalism.Challenges of Modern Photography - The episode emphasizes the pitfalls of relying on social media for validation. Milnor critiques the modern "online photo community" and stresses the importance of creating unique and meaningful work outside of social media platforms.The Importance of Print and Bookmaking - Milnor shares insights into the power of print, emphasizing the tangible nature of photo books as lasting records of work, contrasting with the ephemeral nature of social media images.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSSunny 16 Rule: A photographic rule of thumb for estimating daylight exposures without a meter.Long-term Projects: An approach in photography focusing on extended storytelling beyond single images to provide depth and context.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can photographers ensure their work stands out in a saturated digital space?What are the benefits of producing physical photo books versus digital albums?How does Milnor’s view on social media challenge or change your perspective on its use in photography?RESOURCES:Visit Dan Milnor's Website - https://shifter.media/Download your free copy of 46 Creative Photo Ideas to Get You Out of a Rutat https://creativeimageideas.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!
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1:19:00
The 6 Photography Mindset Shifts Every Beginner Needs to Hear
#552 In this episode of the podcast, I share the core principles that shape both my personal photography journey and the mission of the podcast. Recognizing that photography can feel overwhelming for newcomers, I focus on shifting the mindset from technical skills to capturing meaningful moments. By sharing six foundational principles, I aim to inspire creativity, enhance confidence, and help photographers of all levels rediscover their passion for photography. I emphasize the importance of capturing emotions and stories over technical perfection, reminding myself and listeners that photography is about seeing and experiencing the world around us.THE CORE PRINCIPLESMoment Matters More Than SettingsThe Best Camera Is the One You UseDon't Worry About RAWLighting Matters More Than Your Camera GearPhotography Is a Way to See, Not Just a SkillYou Must Share Your WorkIMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSRembrandt Lighting: A classic lighting technique characterized by a small triangle of light on the shadowed side of the face, used to create depth and dimension.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can focusing on moments over settings change your approach to photography?What are some practical ways to practice seeing light in everyday settings?RESOURCES:Free Guide: 5 Questions To Ask Before Pressing the Shutter - https://beginnerphotopod.com/5QsDownload your free copy of 46 Creative Photo Ideas to Get You Out of a Rutat https://creativeimageideas.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!
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40:12
School Teacher by Day Aspiring Photographer by Night with Elizabeth DeVoe
#551 Elizabeth DeVoe is a first-grade teacher in Atlanta who recently embarked on her photography journey. The discussion navigates Elizabeth's early experiences and the unexpected spark that ignited her passion for photography. Elizabeth shares her beginnings with a Canon Rebel XS, a journey that transitioned from a poor initial photo attempt to a newfound love for capturing everyday moments. The episode delves into her learning paths, notably through podcasts, and emphasizes the relatable struggles and triumphs of a beginner photographer. KEY TOPICS COVEREDBeginnings of a Photography Journey - Elizabeth describes how a mix of chance and personal necessity led her to pick up the camera again after a year, highlighting how a creative outlet can offer solace and joy amidst life's stresses.Learning Through Audio - A significant portion of Elizabeth's early education in photography came from listening to podcasts while driving, showcasing how non-visual learning can effectively complement a visual art form like photography.Transitioning to Client Work - Elizabeth talks about moving from photographing friends to paid sessions, underlining the importance of creating comfort and connection with subjects, which is a fundamental skill she honed through teaching and customer service roles.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSBack Button Focusing: A technique in which the focus function is removed from the shutter button and assigned to a button on the back of the camera, allowing for more controlled and repeatable focusing.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can finding a personal creative outlet improve mental health and balance in one's life?In what ways can non-traditional learning methods contribute to skill acquisition in visual arts?RESOURCES:Follow Elizabeth DeVoe on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/elizabethdevoephotography/Download your free copy of 46 Creative Photo Ideas to Get You Out of a Rutat https://creativeimageideas.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!
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49:24
Photo Q&A: How Do You Set the Right Price for Your Photo Prints?
#550 In Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I discuss important topics about photography that are essential for both beginners and experienced photographers. This episode's key themes revolve around the pricing of prints, motivation in photography, understanding lenses, managing photography business logistics, and addressing technical shooting challenges. KEY TOPICS COVEREDPricing Prints - Raymond addresses pricing framed prints by explaining that the photographer's value comes from capturing moments and connections, not merely selling paper and ink. He stresses that pricing should reflect the photographer's time and expertise, with a guideline from the Professional Photographers of America suggesting a minimum charge of $50 for profitability.Motivation in Photography - Raymond discusses how lack of motivation often stems from not having a specific idea rather than a lack of interest. He advises photographers to set constraints and avoid self-editing during shoots to reignite creativity. He shares methods for photographers to overcome creative blocks by exploring new subjects or projects.Understanding Lenses - The episode provides a detailed explanation of different focal lengths, clarifying the role of lens compression, depth of field, and the effects of lens choice on photographic outcomes. Raymond suggests using specific lenses depending on the shooting scenario, like wide lenses for landscapes and telephoto for portraits.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSCompression: Refers to the perceived distance between the subject and the background, which varies with lens focal length.Circular Polarizer Filter: A tool used to reduce reflections and glare, enhancing image quality by altering the light entering the camera.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can photographers better assess their work's value beyond material costs?What are some creative strategies to overcome a lack of motivation in photography?Download your free copy of 46 Creative Photo Ideas to Get You Out of a Rutat https://creativeimageideas.com/Connect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!
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32:39
How to Start in Stock Photography with Rosemary Watson
#549 Rosemary Watson is a successful photographer who has carved out a unique niche in the world of stock photography. The discussion primarily centers around Rosemary's journey into stock photography and the practical steps she took to build a business that thrives on creativity and market demand. Key themes include overcoming the initial barriers to entry in photography, understanding the nuances of styled stock photography, and leveraging platforms like Creative Market for business growth. Rosemary also emphasizes embracing trial and error as a learning process, encouraging photographers to experiment with different styles and niches to find their passion. KEY TOPICS COVEREDWhat is Stock Photography? - Rosemary explains the concept of stock photography, distinguishing between traditional corporate images and styled stock photography that appeals to everyday users and bloggers. Key takeaways include the versatility and utility of stock images for diverse clients.Transition from Portraits to Stock Photos - The conversation delves into Rosemary’s transition from traditional photography gigs like weddings and portraits to stock photography, highlighting how she recognized a gap in the market and filled it with her unique style. The importance of niche marketing and finding your passion is underscored.Building a Business with Creativity - Through Rosemary’s experience, listeners learn the strategies for monetizing photography skills through platforms like Etsy and Creative Market. The episode sheds light on customer engagement, market research, and adapting to industry trends.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSStyled Stock Photography: A specialized form of stock photography that involves the careful styling and arrangement of objects to create visually appealing and purposeful images.Market Research: The process of gathering insights about consumer needs and preferences, crucial for tailoring stock photography offerings to meet market demand.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can you apply the concept of storytelling to your photography to make it more compelling and marketable?What niche in stock photography can you explore that aligns with your interests and has market demand?How can platforms like Creative Market help photographers without a significant following reach more clients?RESOURCES:Follow Rosemary Watson on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rosemarywatson/Explore Creative Market for a marketplace of digital products and stock photography - http://creativemarket.com/Download your free copy of 46 Creative Photo Ideas to Get You Out of a Rutat https://creativeimageideas.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!
The Beginner Photography Podcast is a free weekly podcast hosted by professional photographer Raymond Hatfield who interviews world class photographers of all genres who share what they wish they knew when they got started so you can grow your creative photography skills faster! The podcast is brought to you by CloudSpot.io, the client gallery system that is always #EmpoweringPhotographers
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