The Beginner Photography Podcast

#593 In this month’s Q&A episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, we answer questions that span both technical and philosophical aspects of photography. The conversation centers around real-world challenges for beginners – such as gear selection, repair decisions, getting comfortable with taking photos of strangers, and figuring out what to do with all the photos taken. A key theme in the episode is demystifying the necessity (or lack thereof) of expensive equipment, highlighting practical approaches, and encouraging photographers to focus on skills and intent over gear. The learning objectives are to help new photographers make confident choices regarding camera bodies and lenses, to understand essential photography concepts like crop sensor vs. full frame, and to gain practical strategies for the creative and ethical dilemmas commonly faced in daily shooting. Core takeaways include: moment and storytelling trump equipment price; knowing your camera, settings, and practicing in diverse scenarios is more beneficial than chasing the latest technology; and sharing or preserving your work can be deeply personal and doesn’t have to be showy. Key Topics Covered: Camera Repairs and Gear Upgrades: The Myth of Expensive Lenses: Navigating Event/Street Photography & Sharing Work: Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundlehttps://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#592 In today’s episode, we’re exploring how to rediscover the fun in photography at any skill level, with creative tips and hands-on strategies to keep your passion alive! Photography can sometimes feel overwhelming—too many buttons, confusing settings, and the pressure to get everything perfect can zap the fun right out of it. If you’ve ever felt bogged down or like photography is turning into work instead of play, you’re not alone. Today’s conversation is here to help you shake off that stress and bring back the joy that made you pick up your camera in the first place. Together, we’ll explore new ways to simplify your process, experiment fearlessly, and enjoy your growth as a photographer, no matter what camera you use. Keep Photography Simple and Playful:Make Your Work Tangible:Try New Experiments and Share the Experience:Resources: Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundlehttps://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#591 Cris Duncan is an experienced studio owner from Lubbock, Texas, well-known for his expertise in lighting and in-person photography education. The conversation dives into the transformative value of hands-on, in-person learning experiences for photographers at all stages, shining a spotlight on Cris’ role with the Texas School of Professional Photography—a weeklong, immersive event designed to provide deep dives into specific areas of photography, rather than the surface-level "popcorn" approach of larger conferences. KEY TOPICS COVERED In-Person Education vs. Online Learning - Structure and Tracks at Texas School of Professional Photography - Building Community and Lifelong Learning - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Concierge Family Portrait Experience:Texas School of Professional Photography:DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS RESOURCES: Visit Texas School’s Website - https://texasschool.org/ Follow Cris Duncan on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cjduncan Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#590 Trevor Dayley is a renowned wedding photographer recognized as one of the best in Arizona and among the top 100 wedding photographers in the United States. In this episode, Trevor shares his personal journey and offers an honest look at the realities behind awards and industry recognition. Despite his accolades, Trevor admits to ongoing feelings of self-doubt, comparison, and imposter syndrome—challenges that persist no matter how experienced or celebrated a photographer becomes. KEY TOPICS COVERED The Emotional Challenges of Photography - Building a Sustainable Photography Career - Leveraging Social Media & Embracing Your Style - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Hustle Trap:DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS RESOURCES: Visit Trevor Dayley’s Website - https://www.trevordayley.com/ Follow Trevor Dayley on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/trevordayley Follow Magnet Mod on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/magnetmod/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#591 Nick Church is a seasoned wedding and commercial photographer, educator, and the founder of the Nick Church Creative Academy. With nearly a decade of professional experience, Nick has become recognized for both his creative eye and his commitment to helping other photographers grow in their craft. Having transitioned from the software industry to full-time photography, he brings a unique blend of business acumen and technical expertise to the table. KEY TOPICS COVERED Evolving Creativity and Staying Motivated in Wedding Photography - Seven Foundational Rules for Photographers - Transitioning from Hobby to Business - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Gear Acquisition Syndrome (GAS):Shooting with Intention:DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS RESOURCES: Visit Nick Church’s Website - https://www.nickchurchcreativeacademy.com/ Follow Nick Church on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nickchurchcreativeacademy/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#590 In this episode of the podcast, I share a personal, behind-the-scenes look at what’s been happening in my photographic life, focusing on one of the most common dilemmas photographers face: Should you repair a broken camera or upgrade to a newer model? After my Fujifilm X Pro 2 suddenly died while on a shoot, I walk listeners through the emotional and practical decision to spend $400 on repairs rather than buying a new camera. I talk candidly about why this choice isn’t just about saving money—it’s about honoring the sentimental attachment to a workhorse camera and making smart, needs-based decisions rather than getting distracted by shiny new gear. KEY TOPICS COVERED Repairing vs. Upgrading Your CamerThe Role and Impact of Upgrading GearCreative Inspiration and Intentional ProjectsIMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide! https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#588 In this episode of the podcast, I dig into what baseball has taught me about becoming a better photographer. At first glance, these two worlds might seem unrelated, but I quickly realized that the secret to growth in both comes down to the quiet, persistent practice—those thousands of unseen reps that prepare us for our “big game” moments. I share stories from the baseball world, like Dodgers legends Freddie Freeman and Cody Bellinger, as well as insights from head photographer Jon Soohoo, drawing parallels to our photographic journey. KEY TOPICS COVERED The Importance of Consistent Practice (Reps) - Learning From Failure and Tracking the Right Stats - Growth Through Community and Feedback - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Reps (Repetitions):Utility Player:Discussion & Reflection Questions: Learn What Camera Settings to Use in our free guide! https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#586 In Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I answer the questions that matter most to photography beginners and enthusiasts who are eager to grow both technically and creatively. This episode is all about addressing real-world challenges that come up when you’re starting or growing a photography practice. I share my personal experiences, insights, and favorite tips—especially about balancing a day job with a budding side hustle in photography. I open up about my own journey of building a wedding photography business and the practical strategies I used to manage my time, keep clients happy, and avoid burnout. KEY TOPICS COVERED Starting a Photography Side Hustle & Workflow Automation - Editing Style Evolution & Managing Creative Ruts - Equipment Choices for Travel, Studio, & Technical Mastery - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Depth of Field (DoF): DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#585 Mark Hemmings is an internationally recognized travel photographer and educator. Mark shares his inspiring journey, beginning with his early days in Canada when he first discovered photography while traveling in Japan. He walks listeners through the evolution of his career—from working in the movie industry and commercial photography to finding his true passion in travel and photography workshops around the globe. KEY TOPICS COVERED Preparation and Mindset for Travel Photography - Gear Choices and Minimalism - Creative Techniques for Captivating Travel Photos - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Foreground Element:Slide Film:DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS RESOURCES: Visit Mark Hemmings’ Website - https://markhemmings.com/ Follow Mark Hemmings on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markhemmings/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#584 In this episode of the podcast, I explore the idea that your photos are not broken just because they aren’t technically perfect or heavily edited. I share my own experiences as a photographer, reflecting on how the rise of digital editing and AI has made many of us feel like every photo needs to be “fixed” to be worth keeping or sharing. I encourage you to let go of those expectations and to rediscover what made you pick up a camera in the first place—whether it was to slow down, see the world differently, or simply enjoy making images. KEY TOPICS COVERED The Pressure of Perfection and Editing in Modern Photography - Imperfection as Art and Authenticity - Practical Approach: Enjoyment and Mindset Shift (Plork) - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Plork: DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS RESOURCES: Check out the Headway App for book summaries - https://makeheadway.com/ Book: "The Creative Act" by Rick Rubin Book: "The Dude and the Zen Master" by Jeff Bridges Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#583 Dina Goldstein is an acclaimed photographer and visual artist known for her provocative, narrative-driven imagery and a career spanning over 30 years. Dina shares her unconventional journey into photography—from her early fascination with how she saw the world, to a pivotal trip in her 20s that inspired her to take her first photography course. She discusses her drive for continual learning, willingness to make mistakes, and evolving artistic process. KEY TOPICS COVERED Finding Your Path in Photography - Embracing Mistakes and Gaining Technical Mastery - Editorial vs. Artistic Photography - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Editorial Photography: Artistic Eye: DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS RESOURCES: Visit Dina Goldstein's Website - https://dinagoldstein.com/ Follow Dina Goldstein on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dinagoldstein/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#582 In this episode of the podcast, I take a deep dive into how comparison can seriously derail your progress and enjoyment as a photographer. Inspired by my own experiences learning new skills—like learning to juggle and nurturing my lawn—I share how easy it is to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others, especially in the age of social media. I remind listeners that success in photography, or any art, isn't reserved for those who started young or have the best equipment—it's all about showing up, being consistent, and putting in the work over time. I discuss the myth of overnight success by highlighting stories of people like Morgan Freeman and Stan Lee, who found their big breaks later in life. I emphasize that wherever you are in your journey is exactly where you need to be, and it’s totally normal to have doubts and setbacks. What matters most is your willingness to keep going and focus on your own growth, not what others appear to be achieving. KEY TOPICS COVERED The Perils of Comparison in Photography - The Myth of Instant Success and the Power of Consistency - Setting Intentional Goals and Noticing the World - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Comparison Trap:Reps (Putting in the Reps):DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#581 Shane Balkowitsch is a dedicated wet plate collodion photographer whose passion for history, authenticity, and the human experience shapes both his artwork and his views on the future of photography. In this episode, Shane shares the journey that led him from having no experience with a camera to mastering one of photography’s oldest analog processes—a craft involving silver on glass that dates back to 1851. He highlights how the permanence and tangible nature of wet plate images, created through capturing real light and human presence, starkly contrast with the ephemeral, intangible nature of digital and AI-generated images. KEY TOPICS COVERED Defining Photography in the Age of AI - Ethics, Ownership, and Historical Accuracy - Terminology, Transparency, and the Future of Art - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Wet Plate Collodion Photography: IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS RESOURCES: Visit Shane Balkowitsch's Website - https://nostalgicglasswetplatestudio.zenfolio.com/ Follow Shane Balkowitsch on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/balkowitsch/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#580 In Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I tackle listener-submitted questions for our monthly Photo Q&A session. We cover a variety of challenges that many beginner photographers run into—from understanding the difference between RAW and JPEG files, managing noise in corporate event shots, to building a strong portfolio through strategic “model calls.” I’ll also share practical insights on why your photos might look different across devices or editing programs, when to use settings like aperture priority or manual mode, and how to set up and communicate a successful portfolio shoot. Plus, we’ll get into deeper topics like how to price your work as a new photographer and whether AI editing tools are changing the value of getting things right in-camera. KEY TOPICS COVERED RAW vs. JPEG & Display Differences - Shooting Busy Events & Managing Noise - Model Calls & Portfolio Building - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS RAW (Image Format):Model Call:DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#579 Zenia Monteagudo is an experienced music and event photographer who has recently begun exploring family portraiture. Zenia shares her personalized journey into photography, starting from her early fascination with disposable and point-and-shoot cameras to a pivotal moment when she purchased a Sony camera on clearance at Target. This chance purchase set her on an unexpected path, leading to opportunities in music photography, including shooting concerts at iconic venues like Red Rocks. KEY TOPICS COVERED Starting a Photography Journey & Building Confidence - Concert Photography: Skills, Challenges, and Opportunities - Transitioning Between Genres & The Power of Candid Photography - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Photo Pass:Candid Photography:DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS RESOURCES: Follow Zenia Monteagudo on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/zen_e_ah_/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#578 In this episode of the podcast, I deliver a thoughtful exploration into the emotional and psychological aspects that underlie the pursuit of photography. I dissect the difference between being infatuated with photography—often characterized by a focus on gear, novelty, and aesthetics (“lust”)—and a mature, enduring engagement with the craft, marked by sustained commitment and personal growth (“love”). Throughout the episode, I draw parallels between our relationships with people and with photography, making the argument that both require effort, patience, and vulnerability for genuine fulfillment. KEY TOPICS COVERED Lust vs Love in Photography - Overcoming Frustration and the Importance of Perseverance - Concrete Methods to Deepen Engagement - DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS RESOURCES: Check out the Canon Selphy Printer - Affordable home photo printer for bringing digital photos to life. Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#577 Shane Wilkie is a community member who has made impressive strides in sports, event, and commercial photography since his last appearance. The discussion centers around building confidence as a photographer, the evolution of photographic style, and how personal projects can drive both skill and personal growth. He discusses his experiences building a portfolio, including how trading photography for accommodations with Airbnb hosts opened doors to paid commercial work. Shane also delves into tackling nerves while photographing people, the differences between event and action sports photography, and how personal projects—particularly those connected to his personal history—help him process and express complex emotions. KEY TOPICS COVERED Building Confidence and Portfolio Through Experience and Trade - Expressing Emotion and Storytelling in Photography - Personal Projects and Growth as a Photographer - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Portfolio-Building Trade: Intervalometer: DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS RESOURCES: Visit Shane Wilkie's Website - https://www.shanewilkie.com/ Follow Shane Wilkie on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/shanewilkie/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#576 Taylor Isselhard is a full-time wedding photographer and the host of the Wedding Lens Lounge podcast. As a professional who successfully transitioned from part-time to full-time photography, Taylor offers an in-depth perspective on the critical steps required for building a sustainable photography business. A significant theme in his career is the disciplined approach to business growth. Relying on his background in business, Taylor underscores the importance of thorough preparation before leaving stable employment. This includes maintaining a clear understanding of financial needs, forecasting bookings, setting aside an emergency fund, and only making the leap once the business demonstrates consistent demand and stability. KEY TOPICS COVERED Transitioning to Full-Time Photography - The Power of Client Experience and Networking - Systems, Workflow, and Work-Life Balance - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS CRM (Customer Relationship Management): Begin with the End in Mind: DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS RESOURCES: Visit Taylor Isselhard's Website - https://tpiphotography.com/ Follow Taylor Isselhard on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tpi_photography/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#575 Sandra Coan is a seasoned film photographer from Seattle with two decades of experience in newborn, family, and classic portraiture. Sandra shares her inspiring journey—how she turned a creative passion into a thriving business, the challenges of building a successful brand, and the importance of letting your authentic style shine. As you listen, you’ll learn how to define what makes your photography truly unique, why focusing on what brings you joy can fuel both your growth and client satisfaction, and concrete steps for aligning your artistic voice with your business. Take Sandra’s wisdom and start building a brand that’s unmistakably yours. KEY TOPICS COVERED The True Nature of BrandingFinding Your Unique Voice & Overcoming ComparisonBusiness Growth through Authenticity and ConsistencyIMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS Branding: Comparison Trap: DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS RESOURCES: Visit Sandra Coan's Website - https://www.sandracoan.com/ Follow Sandra Coan on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sandracoan/ Sandra Coan’s Educational Platform - https://www.sandracoaneducation.com/ Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#574 In this episode of the podcast, I got brutally honest about an uncomfortable truth many photographers—myself included—often avoid: believing new gear will instantly make us better photographers. I dove into why so many of us, at some point, fixate on the idea that lack of equipment stands between us and the images we want to create. Drawing from my own experiences—like nearly convincing myself to buy a $7,500 Fujifilm GFX100 medium format camera after I left wedding photography—I shared how easy it is to fall into the "gear will fix it" trap, when what I really needed was to spend more time shooting. I challenged listeners (and myself) to rekindle excitement by using the equipment we already own. Whether that’s taking a “camera date” or giving ourselves quirky creative assignments, the goal is to reconnect with the fun and freedom of shooting—without the pressure of perfection or the itch for an upgrade. KEY TOPICS COVERED The Gear Myth and Creative Ruts - What Really Makes a Great Photo? - Practical Steps for Rekindling Creativity - IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS • Gear Acquisition Syndrome (GAS): The compulsion to buy new cameras or lenses as a solution to creative blocks or skill limitations; often a distraction from the real means of improvement. DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONS Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com Connect with Raymond! https://beginnerphotopod.com/grouphttps://beginnerphotopod.com/qahttps://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!