Episodes

In episode 467 of the Perceptive Photographer podcast, we draw inspiration from the book “Art and Fear” by Ted Orland and Richard Bayless. Often in my artistic endeavors, I’m driven by a desire to produce remarkable pieces that resonate with both myself and my audience. But what’s the path to achieving such a goal? Drawing from the teachings of “Art and Fear”, I point out a fundamental lesson: the best I can do is make art I care about—lots of it. Because as I churn out my creations, only a han...

Welcome to a new episode of the Perceptive Photographer podcast. For those of you who are returning listeners, your continued support is invaluable. And to the newcomers, a warm thank you for tuning in. Exciting updates such as webinars are on the horizon, and I encourage you to subscribe to the newsletter for all the latest news. Discovering Work That Matters Photographers often find themselves at a crossroads, seeking to create work that resonates and has significance. The initial steps towa...

In this episode, we explore the pivotal moment between capture and concept and how making sure we focus on the right creative process at the right time and really push our work forwards in meaningful ways. Key Topics Understanding the “click” moment The “what” versus the “how” The iterative nature of photographic meaning Presence of mind in photo making “What is the thing that drew my attention? What is the thing that pulled me into wanting to actually put the camera up to my eye?” Subscr...

In episode 464 of the Perceptive Photographer podcast, we delve into an intriguing discussion on the importance of artists looking back at their own completed work. Contrasting the view of individuals who refrain from revisiting their past creations, I try to show that reviewing one’s work is crucial for evaluation and self-reflection. I also talk about the value of self-critique in the creative process and how getting more skilled at self-reflection can drive the power of engaging with the work...

Dive into episode 436 of The Perceptive Photographer to explore the intertwining of camaraderie, standards, and idealism in photography. In this episode, I reflect on an owl photo adventure, revealing insights into how photographers can enhance their craft through communal experiences, precise goals, and a contagiously optimistic outlook. Key Topics Community matters in photography Setting expectations can limit you Positivity is infectious on shoots Photography is a privileged pursuit “Th...

This week, we dive into five bad habits that you may have that are blocking your photographic process. Hopefully, in the podcast, you can see how to challenge your approach, shake off stubbornness, improve your listening skills, and inspire action behind the lens. Tune in to sharpen your creative focus! Key Topics Holding onto things out of stubbornness The fallacy of needing to be right The critical mistake of not listening Criticizing others for your own faults The power of doing the wor...

Dive into the ideas of what makes a good photograph in this episode of the Perceptive Photographer podcast. In episode 461 we try to unlock what defines quality in a image and how our assessment of the subjective nature of good changes and evolves over time From engaging our emotions to shifting at our thinking, we talk about how to discover the key elements that make a photograph truly stand out. Key Topics What makes a good photograph? Distractions in photos: purposeful or not? The subject...

As we start 2024 on the perceptive photographer, we dive into the nuances of photography in the digital age, challenging myths and embracing goals for 2024. Tune in for an insightful mix of critical thinking, resolutions, and the power of forgiveness in the creative journey. Key Topics The importance of reviewing assumptions in photography using film photography as more contemplative as an example Redefining photo resolutions The truth about habit-forming Embracing creative forgiveness Sub...

The latest episode of The Perspective Photographer, number 459, dives into some thought-provoking perspectives on photography from some great quotes by other photographers. In these quotes, we see our need to connect to our work and subjects in a meaningful way to produce the best work possible. As we visit the quotes below we can start to see how images have the power to reveal secrets, capture humanity, and become canvasses that echo our connections. A photograph is a secret about a secret. T...

Ever thought being a dismal failure could be your best move? Dive into our exploration of failure as a stepping stone in photography and creativity on this episode of The Perceptive Photographer. Let’s wrap up 2023 by finding beauty in blunders and gaining growth through goof-ups. “Amazing things happen when we fail, and yet most of us work really hard not to be a failure or to appear as we have failed or to appear incompetent or less than qualified for what we’re doing.” Key Points Failure c...

This episode of the Perceptive Photographer podcast is all about listener questions. Starting with the common mistakes made by photographers while critiquing their work. We then look at strategies to tackle procrastination. We try to examine how many photos you need to take to get a good one. I reveal one of my most annoying work habits and how it impacts my photography. Finally, we talk about dealing with so much information on the web and how to focus on their voice and understanding of their ...

In this week’s podcast episode, we explore the use of 11 dynamic questions that are specifically designed to spark meaningful conversations about photography. Using these questions, you can easily discuss your work with your audience and, in turn, help them develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for your art. This can help create a stronger connection between you and your viewers, resulting in a more fulfilling artistic experience for everyone involved. Subscribing to the podcast ensur...

This week’s perceptive photographer podcast dives into the dynamic interplay between time and creativity. This episode peels back the layers of how a non-linear approach to time can reshape our photographic journey and push the boundaries of our artistic process! “And yet we have memories and we have anticipation of the future, and we have all sorts of things that sort of shift our notion of time.” Key Points Time’s role in the creative process Misconceptions about linear progress Circular ...

In this perceptive photographer podcast this week we focus on how coming up with three key goals can make a difference in your work. From setting strategies for goal setting, exploring the impact of language in photography, connecting with your subject, and looking at history, social sharing, or business aspects of photography, getting the right goal can be a wonderful stepping stone to a deeper connection with and emphasizing the importance your work. Key Points Expand beyond low-hanging frui...

In this episode of the Perceptive Photographer, we dive into the impacts of influences on our work. From life’s twists to jazz beats and social justice, explore the diverse elements that shape our sense of seeing. “Our influences come from a broader spectrum than just the other photographers.” Key Points Influences extend beyond photography Emotional life experiences as creative fuel Art forms other than photography inspire The impact of photography training Environment & social issues in...

This week’s podcast explores the distinction between knowledge and wisdom in photography, emphasizing the importance of experience and trusting yourself. My goal is to encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, trust your existing skills, and take action to explore your creativity to have more uniqueness in your work. “Trust that you already know enough, trust that you already have the skills you need, and then take those steps to actually try it out and see what happens.” Key Points Pho...

In this episode 451 of the Perceptive Photographer this week, I discuss the significance of commitment and personal growth in photography. By focusing on our unique perspectives and experiences to create meaningful images, I believe we end up capturing the essence of who we are in our photographs. I also talk about the need for continuous evolution and reinvention rather than staying stagnant. Key concepts from the podcast this week: Emotional awareness greatly impacts the mood and essence of ...

As a photographer, I believe it’s essential to step out of our comfort zones to improve the quality of our images. In this episode, I discuss the significance of exploring new techniques, embracing uncertainty, and actively engaging with the creative process. I also stress the importance of taking the time to sit with our feelings, identifying any issues that may be hindering us, and using a checklist approach to analyze and edit our images. In addition to that, I recommend exploring unknown te...

In the podcast this week, we take a look at ten thought-provoking questions that delve into the motivations, emotions, and personal approaches of photographers. It emphasizes the importance of paying attention and taking progressive steps forward in the creative journey. My goal this week is to help prompt you to reflect on the most amazing images and things you have witnessed through the lens and whether you continue to actively seek out more of the same experiences. Would you photograph if yo...

In a recent conversation with a friend, they mentioned they were moving on from a job. They had been there since the early days in the company and now found that too much had changed, and they felt as if they were having to be something they weren’t. Rather than focusing on doing what they love, it was all smart goals, stretch goals, meetings and delays. The whole reason they got into it was lost. This podcast episode explores how the introduction of smart goals and corporate buzzwords can hind...

In the podcast this week, we take a look at how using metaphors and developing multiple metaphors in your photography can help you find a more exciting and consistent voice in your work. One of the questions I get asked frequently is what sort of equipment do I use to record my podcast. I have used a variety of equipment in the years that I have been recording, but here is the current list of equipment that I am using. Also as an FYI and full disclosure, the links are affiliate links to Amazon.

I like to eat junk food. There are so many good cakes, pies, cookies, ice cream, funnel cakes and more. I also know that too much junk food isn’t good for me and causes all sorts of issues. I know what to do to eat healthy, but I only sometimes do it. I also have learned that dieting to fix an issue is a short-term fix and that the term diet isn’t something you do. It is what you actually eat. Our creative process is a lot like eating. We can live on junk food and the costs that come with it, o...

We often hear that gear doesn’t (or does) matter. Those on the doesn’t matter side will discuss how great images are made independently of the gear used. However, in this week’s podcast, we take a look at how the gear you use impacts the type and style of work you do. We also look at how much of the reason we might buy gear that has no effect on our work. This leads us to the question, are we using the right gear for what we do? One of the questions I get asked frequently is what sort of equipm...

This week is episode number 444 of the podcast. In honor of the episode number, we are looking at three lists of four great ways to improve, have fun and make more photographs. One of the questions I get asked frequently is what sort of equipment do I use to record my podcast. I have used a variety of equipment in the years that I have been recording, but here is the current list of equipment that I am using. Also as an FYI and full disclosure, the links are affiliate links to Amazon.