Impact: The Conservation Photography Podcast

Follow Impact: The Conservation Photography Podcast
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

If you are a photographer or filmmaker with a love for all things wild, then you’re in the right place. From conservation to creativity, from business to marketing, and everything in-between, this podcast is for you, the conservation visual storyteller who is ready to make an impact. Every week, join your host Jaymi Heimbuch on a deep dive into the inspirational conversations and the actionable how-tos for building your photography business while making a big difference in this world. Let's dive in!

Jaymi Heimbuch - Conservation Photographer | Founder, Wild Idea Lab | Co-Creator, Her Wild Vision Initiative


    • Oct 17, 2023 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 39m AVG DURATION
    • 166 EPISODES

    5 from 53 ratings Listeners of Impact: The Conservation Photography Podcast that love the show mention: inspiration and practical, heart so happy, natural world, images, positive change, make a difference, enthusiastic, m looking forward, impact, organized, succeed, humans, path, planet, practical advice, skills, favor, empowering, great resource, providing.



    Search for episodes from Impact: The Conservation Photography Podcast with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Impact: The Conservation Photography Podcast

    Big Announcement!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2023 5:10


    Thinking Critically About Conservation with Dudley Edmondson

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2023 35:33


    #154: Explore the inspiring journey of Dudley Edmondson—a master of many arts—as he passionately delves into discussions on conservation, diversity, education, and the compelling reasons behind why we must protect our ecosystem.

    3 Essential Strategies for Staying on Track in Any Photo Project

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2023 19:29


    #153: Discover three proven strategies to maintain focus, improve your skills, and bring your photography projects to life, even when faced with creative blocks or dwindling enthusiasm.

    How to Cultivate Creativity In Your Photography Practice

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2023 24:59


    #152: Rekindle your creative spark in your nature photography with five strategies to boost your skills and elevate your photos from “nice” to “wow, did you take that??”

    How A.I. Will Change Conservation Photography with Allen Murabayashi

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2023 32:42


    #151:  Dive into this enlightening conversation with Allen Murabayashi, co-founder of PhotoShelter, as he unravels the intriguing intersections of Artificial Intelligence and photography, navigating its societal impact, potential pitfalls, and the unexpected opportunities lying ahead.

    Advocacy vs Photojournalism In Conservation Photography

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2023 12:01


    #150: In conservation photography, the lines between objective observation and passionate action often blur. Get clarity on the intertwining realms of photojournalism and advocacy. Explore how these two roles impact storytelling and influence the perception and protection of our natural world.

    5 Ways to Improve Your Photos Through Storytelling

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2023 18:55


    #149: You've already perfected the easy wildlife portraits. Now it's time to kick your photos up a notch. Dive in to explore the five crucial elements of photography that can turn simple snapshots into emotionally charged storytelling masterpieces.

    How to Get Started in Camera Trap Photography

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2023 12:59


    #148: Ever wonder how nature photographers get those amazing wide-angle wildlife shots captured when no one is around? Dive into the intriguing world of camera trap photography, where technology meets nature, and learn how to create awesome images of animals while also contributing to preserving our natural world.

    4 Ways Local Photo Stories Grow Your Photography Skills

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2023 15:22


    #147: Take your nature and wildlife photography skills to the next level without having to travel far! Learn how local stories can help you develop photography techniques and up your game.

    Photo Essays vs Photo Stories

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2023 13:23


    #146: Learn how to explore the power of photo essays! We demystify the process, purpose, and potential of crafting impactful photo essays that can drive conservation efforts and fuel your nature photography journey.

    How to Build a Conservation Photography Collective with Josh Deleenheer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2023 50:25


    #145: Curious about being part of a photography collective? Maybe you've wanted to create a group of change-making creatives in your area. Learn what it takes to launch a thriving, impactful conservation photography collective with Josh DeLeenHeer from the Canadian Conservation Photographers Collective. Discover how this remarkable organization promotes its cause while also promoting photography as a profession.

    Experience the Joy of Photographing Owls

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2023 19:27


    #144: Ready for a photography adventure with one of the coolest raptor families out there? Let's dive into the captivating world of owls, learn their behaviors, and master the art of shooting in low light. Whether you're a novice or pro, this journey will enhance your skills and provide stunning owl images.

    How to Get Hired for Assignments as a Conservation Photographer in 4 Steps

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2023 16:38


    #143: If you've been dreaming about turning your love for nature and photography into a rewarding career, and you're thinking assignment photography is right up your alley, then today's episode is tailor-made for you. We're taking a dive into how to land assignments in this field.

    Photographing the Night Sky: How to Get Started

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2023 11:36


    #142: Night sky photography is an adventure in and of itself. Not only does it push your creativity to exciting new places, but it also opens up new opportunities for conservation visual storytelling. Learn how it'll break open your creativity, plus get our complete guide to getting started!

    Being A Photonaturalist with Tony Wu

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2023 62:24


    #141: Journey with us from the ocean's depths to squirrel-filled forests in this conversation with Tony Wu, a unique conservation photographer based in Japan. Known for his deep focus on individual species, Tony's approach to photography is a lesson in patience, ethics, and the importance of shining a light on underappreciated creatures.

    Quick Announcement!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2023 4:06


    Grab your personalized playlist at JaymiH.com/Playlist

    Encore! Finding Photo Stories + Passionate Persistence with Jules Jacobs

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2023 81:21


    Conservation Photography 101 is open for enrollment!Enroll at https://ConservationVisuals.com/Enroll✨✨ Conservation Photography 101 is OPEN for enrollment https://ConservationVisuals.com/Enroll

    Encore! Getting Local Photo Stories In National Mainstream Publications With Anne Readel

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2023 48:50


    Conservation Photography 101 opens May 2nd! Enroll at https://ConservationVisuals.com/Enroll

    Is Conservation Photography Right for You? 5 Ways to Know if It's a Fit

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2023 35:26


    #140: Are you curious about conservation photography, but you're not quite sure what it's all about or - more importantly - if it's a fit for you? This episode will give you the clarity you need to know for sure!

    5 Most Important Things to Focus on to Dramatically Improve Your Photos Fast

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2023 50:47


    # 139: Overwhelmed by all you want (and need) to learn to become a better photographer? Zero in on just these 5 things and you'll see lightning-speed improvement in the images you're creating

    3 Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Photo Project

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2023 49:00


    #138: Photo projects are so exciting! That is until overwhelm, confusion, insecurity, scope creep, busy schedules, and so much else get in the way. Here are the 3 most common stumbling blocks conservation photographers face with a new project and HOW to overcome them - with advice straight from my own project management mentor, Jo. 

    Starting a Successful Nature Photography Career with Alyce Bender

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2023 53:41


    #137: How do you go from a passionate hobbyist to a full-time professional nature and wildlife photographer? Alyce Bender launched a growing photo business and walks us through the exact steps she took to do it PLUS how she infuses conservation values into her work. 

    3 Things to Fix on Your Website So Photo Editors Can Find You

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2023 41:15


    #136: It's incredible how many image licensing opportunities have landed in my inbox because I've made it easy for editors to find my photos in Google searches. Here are 3 super simple things to do on your website starting today to improve the chances of photo editors finding your amazing work online. 

    The Making of a Self-Published Conservation Magazine with Melissa Schäfer

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2023 46:02


    #135: A stunning new publication has entered the world. Mother is a passion project by photographer Melissa Schäfer. Bringing together visually captivating stories of connection with Mother Nature, this dreamy new magazine features the work of 15 photographers from around the world and underscores how conservation photography is not a style. It is a statement. Best part? Melissa had NEVER made a magazine before.  It was a project full of firsts. And despite having no idea about the "how", she charged forward. Melissa talks about how she pulled it all off, and her experience is sure to deeply inspire you if you have a passion project you want to pursue but feel a little nervous about.View the publication online, or order your free copy of Mother Volume 1 before they disappear:  https://www.themotherbear.com/mother

    Encore! From Getting Started To Growing a Business, Inspirational Advice From Our Interviews

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2023 49:44


    #134: Enjoy this special encore of a fan-favorite episode! Conservation photographers at all stages of their careers dish on experiences, insights and advice that'll help you in your own journey as a photographer. In this episode, which features key moments from many of the inspiring interviews we've aired the show, we're walking along the career path of a conservation photographer – from launching into a very first project, to finding your style, to raising huge amounts of money for conservation as a seasoned professional.You'll discover sources for creative inspiration, key moments of persistence and humor in photography, to skills and tips you need in the conservation photography field.QUIZ: What's Your Hidden Visual Storyteller Personality? ➡️ https://JaymiH.com/QuizNever miss an episode by signing up at JaymiH.com/ImpactLove listening to the podcast? Drop a rating or review.

    How to get people to care (and act!) for conservation with Brooke Tully

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2023 60:05


    #133: Making awesome nature photos is the "easy" part. The hard part is getting people who see the photos to care and make a behavior change. How do we do that?? Conservation communication expert Brooke Tully breaks down fascinating insights and ideas that'll get you fired up for how you'll use your photos to shake things up. 

    Starting a photo career, mentorship, and finding story ideas with underwater photographer Shane Gross

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2023 61:29


    #132: From diving with sharks to publishing books, from co-founding a collective to taking out a car loan for camera gear, Shane's journey as a professional underwater and ocean conservation photographer is packed with smart tips and invaluable resources for your own adventure in this field.

    Strategies for Coping with Stress as a Conservation Photographer with Anna Pantano

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2023 43:20


    #131: Today is February 14th, and for many this Day of Love is a reminder to take some time for ourselves.As conservation photographers, we all carry a strong emotional load with our projects, so taking time to practice self-love and self-care is essential.Anna Pantano, an expert in mindfulness, stress reduction, and tools to help step out of tough moments.Get the insight you need to manage the stress of your conservation photography projects and find out how to create personalized boundaries of self-care.

    How to Craft a Mentorship - Advice from Photo Editors and Pro Photographers

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2023 93:30


    #130: What does mentorship in photography look like? How does one find a mentor? What's it like to be a really great mentee? This conversation illuminates just how diverse and powerful mentorship is, and what it can look like for you.This is a recording of a bonus event I held about how to craft a mentorship. I invited six pro photographers and photo editors to share the way that our mentorships were structured and do a Q&A session.You'll hear from: Suzi Eszterhas and Susan McElhinney, Photo Editor of Ranger Rick MagazineMorgan Heim and Jen GuytonJaymi Heimbuch (that's me!!) and Sabine Meyer, Photography Director for National Audubon SocietyEach of us shaped very different mentor-mentee relationships based on what we most needed help with. There's SO much great information and insight in here that can help you shape your own mentorships.

    Backyard Camera Traps and Worldwide Workshops with Roy Toft

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2023 51:47


    #129: Even though professional conservation photographer Roy Toft travels the world throughout the year, he still is laser-focused on this backyard photo project. Learn what he's up to with camera traps in his southern California backyard, and why it matters so much to local conservation efforts. Prepare to be inspired to start your own project at home!

    Essential Tax Tips for Photographers with Tiffany Bastian

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2023 47:28


    #128: Whether conservation photography is a hobby, a side-gig or you're a full-time pro, you need to know how to document income and expenses for tax season. (Even if this work is a "hobby" for you, the IRS might not see it that way and you need to have your ducks in a row come tax time. )It's my mission to help you feel organized and prepared in ALL aspects of this field - including the biz side - so today I'm excited to talk with Tiffany Bastian from Bastian Accounting for Photographers!Tiffany dives into what we need to know to prepare our businesses for tax season, and other aspects of running a successful conservation photography business, including: Why a separate bank account is the BEST thing you can have (even if photography is a hobby)Tips to set yourself up for a stress-free tax timeThe benefits of using accounting software like QuickbooksHer membership that teaches you how to build the structure of your photography businessand moreTiffany is passionate about helping photographers reach their dreams and becoming more proactive instead of reactive by making finance management accessible and not anxiety-driven.As she puts it, "If you can show people how to do this stuff and that it's not hard, it doesn't become so anxiety-driven."With energy and infectious enthusiasm, Tiffany opens up the dialogue on how we can make finance-related matters less overwhelming, so that workloads become more streamlined and proactive in the long run.

    [72-Hour Expiring BONUS] How to Find Local Photo Stories

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2023 65:42


    ✨✨ Conservation Photography 101 is OPEN for enrollment!✨✨https://ConservationVisuals.com/Enroll

    What to Do If Your Photo Story Idea Has Been "Done" Already (5 Ways to Find Fresh Angles)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2023 42:46


    #127: Finding out your photo story idea has been done can definitely be disheartening. But don't despair! It doesn't mean the end for your story. (In fact, as a conservation photographer it's a good thing. I explain why in this episode!)By taking a "quarter pivot" on the idea, you can keep moving forward confidently. Here are 5 strategies that'll help you find a new approach (and new excitement!) for your photo story idea.

    An Inside Look at Working With a Photo Editor with Sabine Meyer of Audubon Magazine and Photographer Morgan Heim

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 3, 2023 116:45


    #126: Have you ever wished you could see inside the mind of a photo editor? To understand why they make the decisions they make about stories and know what it's like to actually work alongside them? Or have you dreamed of assisting on a photo story so that you could witness the ins and outs of how it all works? This honest, wide-ranging conversation with Sabine Meyer of  Audubon Magazine and conservation photographer Morgan Heim gives you surprising insights into the work of visual storytelling while encouraging you to follow your creative instincts.We cover: finding joy in arthow Sabine chooses photographers for stories what goes into selecting which stories to publish in the magazinewhy working locally is critical to photographers landing assignmentsthe role of trust between photographer and editorthe surprising things to highlight about yourself on social mediaembracing the freedom to break rules and explore creativity in photojournalismbold creative choices to bring life to seemingly "been done" and controversial storieshow to stay top-of-mind with editors by helping out other photographersand oh my goodness so, so, so much more

    Behind the Scenes of a Photo Shoot (+ How to Build Your Photo Story Skills in 1 Hour)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2022 49:42


    #125: A big challenge nature photographers face is feeling overwhelmed by the thought of photographing people.It's intimidating to capture a moment with someone if you don't have much experience in portrait photography or shooting for a story.Yet, people are often a crucial element of effective, compelling conservation photo stories. After all, many conservation stories are about volunteers, activists, scientists, community members... Luckily, there's an easy 1-hour exercise that helps to build confidence and overcome this fear so you can create beautiful stories with your images.Simply photograph someone you already know doing something. That's it! I know it sounds too easy, but trust me when I tell you that this exercise will work wonders for you. In this episode I take you behind the scenes of a short photo shoot of my partner, Nick, doing a craft.I walk you through: why it's important to do zero-pressure photo shoots to build your creative musclesthe difference between photo stories and photo essaysexactly what I was thinking as I was photographing so I could make interesting, diverse imageswhat I was looking for as I composed imagesworking with what you have when you're a "fly on the wall" photographerhow many images I took in one hour (!!!)how I edited a big set of images down to only the best 26This episode is filled with insights to use next time you pick up the camera  -- and I hope it's to do this very exercise! - that'll help you break through barriers you might be feeling about photographing people. Curious to see the images that I made in this shoot? See some at https://JaymiH.com/125

    How to Interview Photo Story Characters: Expert Advice from a Pro Ghost Writer

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2022 49:42


    #124: Great photographs stem from great opportunities. And when you're photographing people, great opportunities stem from great conversations. Interviewing your story characters is your chance to build a relationship and uncover important storytelling details that'll inform your images. Here are essential interview skills that'll smooth the way to outstanding photos for your stories - straight from a professional ghost writer who has spent thousands of hours interviewing characters!Liz Green of Green Goose writing is here to teach you her top 4 strategies for fun, joyful, stress-free interviews. What you learn in this episode is useful for ANY time you're going to photograph a person, from volunteering at local nonprofits to assignment work!

    3 Steps to Turn 1 Photo Story into Many (plus a Case Study)

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2022 48:06


    #123: You spend a lot of time and effort creating beautifully crafted photo stories about conservation issues that are REALLY important.So it's no wonder you want to make sure those stories get in front of as many eyes as possible. Understanding how to repurpose your photo stories, or come up with fresh ways to get that out into the world in front of different audiences, will help you accomplish MORE impact with LESS work. You'll Learn: - why it's important to tell a story over and over (but differently each time!)- why considering different audiences matters to conservation- how to think about story angles and framing- and we break down a case study from one of my Conservation Photography 101 students so you can see allllll these steps in action! Make the most of EVERY story you photograph! This episode shows you how.

    Which of These 4 Categories of Photos Are You Most Focused On?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2022 11:47


    #122: What category of images are you primarily creating, and is that in alignment with the photographer you aspire to be?In this episode, I talk about the 4 categories in the Visual Impact Quadrant™ and how you can shift focus depending on your goals as a conservation visual storyteller. 

    4 Strategies to Find Time For Photography In Your Busy, Busy Life

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2022 56:35


    #121: Good news and bad news. The bad news is, there's no magic bullet solution for time management. There's no one strategy you can flip on and swoosh, your calendar is cleared for creativity. The good news is, there are LOTS of solutions available that you can build a time-strategy tool kit out of. This means you can pull the just-right-for-right-now solution from the kit when you need it. We dive into 4 of these options in this episode PLUS mindset strategies that make the time strategies actually work. 

    How to Choose What Photos to Post (and What to Hold Back) on Social Media

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2022 19:04


    #120: There's an inevitable question that comes up when you're working on a photo story or project that you know you want to get published: what images can you share on social media? What's smart to share and what's oversharing that could shoot you in the foot later on? We tackle this conundrum by asking one simple but essential question.

    100 Rejections, Finding Fresh Photo Stories, and Passionate Persistence with Jules Jacobs

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 29, 2022 80:44


    #119: Achieving success in conservation photography is simple as long as you have these three ingredients: curiosity, persistence, and a willingness to pivot. As Jules Jacobs proves, these traits help you make bold moves, open doors to opportunities you'd only ever dreamed about, and find surprising friendships along the way.

    What Happened When A National Geographic Photographer Showed Up to This Student's Photo Shoot

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2022 37:07


    #118: It could have gone all wrong. But this savvy Conservation Photography 101 student turned it into an exceptional opportunity (and one we can ALL learn from).

    If You're Worried You're Not "Good Enough" To Be An Impactful Conservation Photographer...

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2022 27:10


    #117: Imposter syndrome. Self-doubt. Uncertainty. It's all super familiar territory to *everyone* in our field. Yes, even the pros feel it (all the time!). So if you're feeling it, know you're not alone. Hit play on this episode for a comforting reality check and - as always - helpful strategies that help you to cut through the noise and the nerves so you can focus on confident creativity.

    Add This To Your Licensing Agreement with a Nonprofit (Even If You're Donating Images)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2022 10:28


    #116: There are BIG perks to making small additions to the agreements you use with nonprofits when you donate images. This one simple tweak sets expectations, underscores your value as a photographer, and sets the stage for future paid work with the nonprofits you're volunteering with.

    5 Steps to Turning your Conservation Photography Hobby into a Profitable Side Hustle

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2022 52:57


    #115: Turning your passionate hobby into something that not only pays for itself but brings in a sustainable income is not nearly as complex or confusing as you might think. Start with these simple, straightforward steps, and grow from there.

    Improve Your Outdoor Photography Adventures With This Essential Addition to Your Kit

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2022 11:55


    #114: The camera is just one tool we use to capture images of wildlife. There's another toolkit that is, frankly, even more important than what lens you bring with you into the wild.Because without this toolkit, you won't have anything to aim that lens at! This quick-tip episode covers what the toolkit is, and includes a free downloadable gift

    How to Always Have Funds for Your Photography Passion (a Simple System for Guilt-Free Spending!)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2022 30:37


    #113: I get it. There's always a twinge of nervousness - even guilt - when it comes to spending money on your photography dreams. Thankfully, I've found a system that bypasses alllllll that and makes it possible and FUN to spend money on the tools and education you need to advance your skills and opportunities as a conservation photographer.I've used this system for years now and it's utterly transformed my business AND the way I feel about investing in myself as a photographer. Jo and I walk you through it step by step - and dig into WHY this works so well - in today's episode.

    A Smart Strategy to Ease the Agony of Editing a Photo Portfolio

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2022 10:16


    #112: Narrowing down a portfolio of images to ONLY your best shots is tough! You might spend hours agonizing over two shots that, well, look pretty much the same.Choosing between your favorites, or feeling confident you're picking the best and only the best (because what if someone else likes this other image better???), or feeling overwhelmed with all the images you're deciding among that you can't see the forest for the trees ... the struggle is real. Here are two different approaches to make the process much, much easier. One option removes images by focusing specifically on similars.The other option - brought to you courtesy of one of my Conservation Photography 101 students - adds images by making "mini portfolios" of the best options, one small handful at a time. Pick which one works best for you and start flying through the portfolio editing process with confidence  - and kick decision fatigue to the curb!I also mention my 5-Step portfolio editing process. You can get the worksheet and walkthrough at JaymiH.com/3

    How to Put YOU at the Center of Photo Stories (the Right Way)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2022 55:44


    #111: Your personal perspective and experiences can be a powerful storytelling strategy. But there are ways to do it right (and wrong). Here are my top 3 tips for what to keep in mind when photographing a story that's your own personal narrative so that your story is engaging and effective (rather than an eye-roller). If you do these 3 things, you'll have a share-worthy story your viewers feel connected to and inspired by.

    How to Choose The Best Portfolios for Your Photography Website

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2022 12:10


    #110: Do the portfolios on your photography website open doors for you... or slam them shut? Here are 3 simple steps to ensure you're not only publishing your best work, but the work that makes the most *sense* for your photography goals. 

    3 Ways Conservation Photographers Get Paid (or Volunteer)

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 25, 2022 54:45


    #109:  You might wonder, "Ok so conservation photographers use their images to help the environment. I get that. But what does that LOOK like? And, can you make money at it?" This episode breaks down 3 of the most common types of work we do both as volunteers and paid creatives.

    Claim Impact: The Conservation Photography Podcast

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel