Every week, Jeffery Saddoris and Bill Wadman take on the art, science, and philosophy of photography and explore how they play out behind the camera in the process of making images. Insider insights for the novice, shop talk for the professional, and opinionated discussion for the interested observe…
The On Taking Pictures podcast is a fantastic and highly enjoyable show that delves into the world of art and creativity. It is not just for photographers, but for anyone struggling with the meaning of making art. The hosts, Jeffrey and Bill, have a great rapport and their conversations feel like you're listening in on two friends catching up on their creative lives. The topics are always relevant and thought-provoking, balancing between deep discussions and light-hearted moments. Whether you're an artist or someone trying to navigate today's world, this podcast is a must-listen.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is its authenticity. Jeffrey and Bill openly share their struggles and triumphs as artists, discussing creative blocks, depression, and overcoming obstacles. This level of honesty makes listeners feel less alone in their own artistic journeys or personal struggles. The podcast also covers a wide range of topics beyond photography, making it accessible to anyone in any creative field. The episodes are always a mix of funny moments, deep insights, motivation, and honest conversations about life itself.
One possible downside to the podcast is that it has evolved from being more structured and specific to photography to a looser format that focuses on introspection. While this change may be appreciated by some listeners who enjoy the deeper conversations about art and creativity, others who were initially drawn to the show for its photography-related content may feel less interested in its current direction. However, even without focusing solely on gear or specific technical aspects of photography, there is still plenty to learn from the discussions on inspiration and artistic processes.
In conclusion, The On Taking Pictures podcast is an outstanding conversation on art, creativity, and life in general. It goes beyond just talking about photography gear or techniques; it delves into deeper questions about why we create art and how it impacts our lives. Jeffrey and Bill provide an engaging dynamic that keeps listeners coming back for more each episode. Whether you're a seasoned artist or someone looking for inspiration, this podcast is a treasure trove of valuable insights and entertaining conversations.
Jeffery and Bill discuss the Dan Winters episode of the Disney/Hulu series ‘Photographer' and how maker's relationships with their partners and families allows them to do what they do. Adventure photographer Krystle Wright is our Photographer of the Week. 'Photographer' on Hulu Dorothy Simpson Krause Krystle Wright on IG
Should you react to changes in the industry by going on defense or offense? And what does offense in this context mean. TIF vs PSD vs PSB and more. Ken Nahoum is our Photographer of the Week. Jerry Ghionis website
Change the variables you control when that's what's holding you back. Also, how to have your portfolio stand out and fit in to the preconceived notions of your viewers all at the same time. Bastiaan Woudt is our Photographer of the Week. Canva Acquires Affinity Rebecca Ferguson photos by @juankr Randomness - The 1975 interview "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" by Robert Pirsig Cincinatti Chili PotW - Bastiaan Woudt Hasselblad x-pan Mamiya 7ii
Something feels different for Jeffery and it's a good thing, something feels different for Bill and it's not a good thing. Tony Notarberardino is our Photographer of the Week. Attention!: The power of simple decisions in a distracted world Jony Ive on Steve Jobs focus Bill's picture of Cisco Bill's other picture Cisco Ai Vs Artists - The Biggest Art Heist in History Tony Notarberadino on Forbes Tony Notarberadino on WNYC Tony Notarberadino in Interview Magazine ACA Galleries - Chelsea Hotel Portraits Steven Shore leaves Instagram
Is Instagram still about photography? Even if it is, are they photographs of real life anymore or is AI imagery just the next step toward the fantasy the world seemingly wants. Bill got little Godox Lux Junior flash, but is still not sold. Jack Delano is our Photographer of the Week. EU Parliament tries to control AI New TikTok App Spotted Triathlete IG account 16,000 Artists in Midjourney Training Database VFX of Godzilla Minus One Godox Lux Junior Flash Princess Kate Photo Edited Jack Delano on Wikipedia Jack Delano on ICP
Jeffery is copying his art to photographs and Bill has found a new online color editor which he's playing with while learning to accept and grow from critique. Todd Schick is our Photographer of the Week. San Francisco Art Institute bought by Laurene Powell Jobs Color.io Jacob Collier interview Chris Ashworth new book "The Unseen Saul Leiter" on Amazon Todd Schick on Instagram
Turns out Jacob Collier is an amazing musician even if he doesn't label his tracks. Jeffery and Bill discuss figuring out other people's process and how sometimes it's more fun not to know. Jo Ann Callis is our Photographer of the Week. LOGIC SESSION BREAKDOWN: "Bridge Over Troubled Water" Dorothy Simpson Krause Dustin Yellin Djesse Vol 4 cover art out of glass Sam Maloof Woodworker This uncomfortable portrait of femininity has resonated for four decades Jo Ann Callis website The Genius List - Jo Ann Callis interview
AI video is here, but who is it good for? Reviews are mixed for the new Fuji x100VI. When does change make sense and when to leave well enough lone? Marion Post Wolcott is our Photographer of the Week. Why “Shot on Iphone” Commercials Look So Good! Fuji X100VI – PetaPixel Fuji X100VI – Phoblographer Marion Post Wolcott – Flashbak Marion Post Wolcott – Wikipedia
Circus Models and Slot Cars lead Jeffery and Bill into discussing the skill of overcoming indicision and the emotional ownership of the things you make. Classic 20th century photograph Norman Parkinson is Photographer of the Week. Slot Mods article Slot Mods Man Dodging a Kettle - Know Your Meme Howard Brother's Circus "Ringmaster of His Own Design" Elton John is selling his Photography collection Norman Parkinson on Photogpedia Norman Parkinson on IconicImages Mamiya RZ67 bellows exposure compensation chart The best of Dr Bellows What is Toneh? - Camera Conspiracies
Jeffery and Bill discuss the new documentary "The Greatest Night in Pop" on Netflix, photographing art, and pictures of themselves at 21. 20th century German photographer Herbert List is our Photographer of the Week. The Greatest Night in Pop The Photography Behind Earthrise U2 Songs of Surrender cover photo Herbert List on Artnet Herbert List Archive on IG Herbert List on Wikipedia
Sitting on the knife's edge of needing people around and also wanting to be alone. Plus how do you make friends in your 50's. Bill finally got his knives sharpened and made some friends along the way. Gerald Cyrus is our Photographer of the Week. LinoType Documentary Murder of Kitty Genovese Brain and Life podcast featuring Bill Wadman PhotoWalk podcast featuring Jeffery Saddoris Unboxing Details of the Hollyland Lark Max Gerald Cyrus Gerald Cyrus "Harlem Nights" book
Jeffery and Bill take a look at the feedback loop between confidence or competence. Also Bill's kitchen knives sharpening adventure Part One. Fashion photographer Cody Rasmussen is Photographer of the Week. Del Re Grinding Truck John's Sharpening Service Zefrank "The Innovation Wave" NYT Rat Selfies 9:30 Club in DC Search Engine Podcast Photofolio Website Tool Cody Rasmussen Portfolio Cody Rasmussen IG
A big folder of family photos to Bill leads him and Jeffery to discuss family history. We also go deep on the concept of a workspace and what it takes to make a good one. Plus we take a gander at a NYTimes piece which considers culture dead. Karl Bissinger is Photographer of the Week. Vintage KitchenAid Superba dishwasher Why Culture Has Come to a Standstill Karl Bissinger Obituary Karl Bissinger google images search Karl Bissinger "The Luminous Years" book on Amazon
In a world where we're overrun with images already, some people are gunning to give machines copyright, but to what end? Also some Q&A about recommendations and process. Fashion Photographer Deborah Turbeville is our Photographer of the Week. Stephen Thaler AI article Jeffery Film Rec: "In The Mood for Love" Bill Film Rec: "Cinema Paradiso" Jeffery Album Rec: "Chicago Transit Authority" Jeffery Album Rec: "Blood Sweat and Tears Greatest Hits" Bill Album Rec: "Spilt Milk" Jellyfish Bill Album Rec: "Redhead" Bleu Jeffery Podcast Rec: Design Matters The Strombo Show on YouTube Bill's Podcast Rec: The Rest is History Holland and Sandbrook on Dan Carlin's Hardcore History Addendum Deborah Turbeville NYT Obit Deborah Turbeville at Staley Wise Gallery Deborah Turbeville on ArtNet Turbeville Composition Discussion
How do you hold onto inspiration and remind yourself later? Your process is the result of your experiences. Perhaps it's better to lean into how you work rather than force yourself into someone else's system. A great AI rebuttal on the NYTimes and South African photographer Peter Magubane is our Photographer of the Week. Christopher Nolan on ScriptNotes podcast "In The Court of the Crimson King" documentary Kondachrome on Netflix Most Expensive Artworks Sold in 2023 Diebenkorn's Ocean Park series Peter Magubane obit on NYTimes 21 Icons: Peter Magubane short film
Some thoughts on last week's in-person episode leads Jeffery and Bill to discuss how copying is never a perfect copy and why that's a good thing. A recent conversation about AI imagery from the NYTimes is discussed and we answer a listener question about physical controls for Lightroom. Alain Laboile is our Photographer of the Week. A.I. Is the Future of Photography. Does That Mean Photography Is Dead? Baldur's Gate 3 Wrensilva stereo consoles Arturia BeatStep Monogram Creative Consoles Alain Laboile portfolio Alain Laboile book "Summer of the Fawn" David Duchemin
Join Jeffery and Bill on a walk down the National Mall in DC as they discuss the Dorthea Lange and Rothko shows at the National Gallery and cut to the quick on the meaning of life, this time, in person! French Vietnam War photographer Catherine Leroy is Photographer of the Week. Dorthea Lange at NGA Rothko on Paper at NGA Catherine Leroy thread on Threads
Bill spends hours digging midi data out of a 17 year old file to open up a box that already had a bow on it. Also, should you cater to the camera or let the camera cater to you? All this and 80's-90's fashion photographer David Seidner is our Photographer of the Week. CakeWalk by BandLab Tony Banks synth patches 03-31-05 original sketch David Seidner on ICP Used David Seidner books on Abe
Bill regales Jeffery with stories from his "Sleep No More" experience this past weekend. Which of course leads the two of them into discussing communications within an organization and deciding when you're old enough to just be yourself, regardless of what other people think. The recently passed Elliott Erwitt is again our Photographer of the Week. I Was Scared To Say This To NASA - Smarter Every Day What Made Apollo A Success - PDF "Sargent's Daughters" by Erica Hirshler "Sleep No More" immersive theater Type Kerning Game "Forever and Ever, Amen" by Randy Travis PotW - Elliott Erwitt Elliott Erwitt obituary in the NY Times
Does the way we learned to use the tools we use hold us back when those tools inevitably change under our feet? The Apple TV+ series "The Supermodels" teaches us a lesson on the value of a good subject and the role of collaboration as tool for improvement. At the end Bill throws in some musings on the musical Merrily We Roll Along that's currently on Broadway and asks Jeffery to weigh in on what it all means. Larry Fink, may he rest in peace, is our Photographer of the Week. Bert Monroy The Supermodels on Apple TV+ Fashion Illustrator Richard Haines on IG Merrily We Roll Along on Broadway Larry Fink Photography Larry Fink on PetaPixel Larry Fink in Blind Magazine Larry Fink book Jeffery plans to buy on Amazon
Memories, nostalgia, and where to draw the line. How our representations of ourselves on the internet change over time and how we define what it is we are to the outside world and how you can't control how they see you. Ben Lowy is our photographer of the week. Led Zepelin IV cover photo found Four Thousand Weeks Mary Spender YouTube income breakdown ScanCafe - Company that scans your photos and movies 'Circling The Square' documentary @theprintarkive on IG PotW - Ben Lowy
Listen to us zag into a technical episode where we discuss Apple's new M3 processors, Adobe's new noise reduction system in Lightroom, how good the new 24MP iPhone photos are, the cool technology that led to a new Beatles song in 2023, and where to start in a lighting kit. British photographer Brian Griffin known for his 1980's album covers is Photographer of the Week. Apple Macbook Pro M3 Max review on ArsTechnica TextureLabs textures Adobe DeNoise on DPReview History of Photojournalism Beatles "Now and Then" Mini-Doc Neewer Diffusion Material on Amazon Godox AD200 flash on Amazon StrobistKen Rockwell reviews Brian Griffin website Brian Griffin at The Guardian Brian Griffin on Amateur Photographer
A conversation of the impact of your mood on your work, especially photography leads to us diving back into our brains in an attempt to rewrite the memories of our past through photographs. Architectural photographer and meme-master Simon Devitt is our Photographer of the Week. Marina Abramovic interview in the NYT Jim Carrey on Sadness and Depression Never let your mood dictate what you do
Bill is back from Paris so it's time for some deep thoughts on fear, pain, and the present. Plus a story about getting lost in a French library that could have been a Star Wars matte painting. Korean photographer Cho Gi-Seok is photographer of the week. USB-C craziness on iPhone 15 Pro Louis XIV globes at the Bibliothèque Nationale Star Wars matte paintings Cho Gi-Seok on Instagram Vice article on Cho Gi-Seok
Bill's headed to Paris on a jet plane, so we've got a short one for you today. The recent story of the demise of Moog synths (again) gets us talking about brands and gear and whether the tools being made with art and intention effects the results you get from those tools. Skate and music photographer Glen E. Friedman is Photographer of the Week. Why Moog Died on YouTube Kiev 88 Camera OM System Glen E. Friedman on IG Glen E. Friedman on Wikipedia Glen E. Friedman on The Nine Club podcast
We start by discussing retro lens recreations, take a ride on a bus, and then decide that ending at a different place than your goal is often the whole point. Miniature set photographer Marius Sperlich is our Photographer of the Week. Nonikkor lenses Julie London Album Cover Bill's recreation of the Julie London Cover Canon 5D Mark II Blackmagic Design Cinema Camera product page Classic Harlan Ellison rant Stay on the Bus Theory IG – Summer Wagner IG – Julia Fullerton Batten Sandro Miller photo recreations with John Malkovich PotW – Marius Sperlich
Jeffery learns that Bill doesn't play games, enjoy Halloween, or watch comedy, so they spend some time unpacking all of that that. I guess they're not playing Jeffery's Dreamcast together. The Manet/Degas show at The Met is discussed and a bit of Camera Corner because Bill played with an M10 and the new Fugi GFX 100 II this week. Arno Rafael Minkkinen is our Photographer of the Week. Sega Dreamcast Manet/Degas at The Met Manet and the Birth of Impressionism on Amazon Fake or Fortune season 5 on YouTube Fuji GFX 100 II on DPReview.com PotW: Arno Rafael Minkkinen
Cutting up your plans into small enough pieces that they no longer stop you from getting going. Plus a little bit about the new iPhone 15 Pro. Homework for the week is to watch the 2017 film “Columbus”. Marvin Newman, who died this week at 95, is once again out photographer of the week. Olivia Rodrigo Video shot with iPhone 15 Pro “La La Land” BTS Garrett Brown working “Columbus” film Marvin E. Newman
Jeffery and Bill discuss finding the process that works best for you and how keeping your brain guessing can often help. They also tackle a few listener questions. Lee Miller is our Photographer of the Week. Bernie Taupin on WTF Ken Mogi on Ikigai venn diagram The Bikeriders trailer Kate Winslet in Lee Miller biopic Lee Miller on ArtNet Lee Miller on WikiArt
Jeffery and Bill discuss the Japanese concept of Ikigai and how the more you ignore your inability the more your inability will become your ability. Early 20th century showgirl photographer Alfred Cheney Johnston is our Photographer of the Week. Ikigai Phil Hartman Wicked Coney Island Polar Bear Club Filming the Shining Boston Strangler movie PotW: Alfred Cheney Johnston Noirchick in Old Hollywood twitter post Vintage News Daily
Has making art ceased to be special? And might that be a consequence of external and internal forces? Any time spent making is better than time wasted not. Victoria Will is out Photographer of the Week. Jill Greenberg on John McCain Wes Anderson – Grand Budapest Hotel BTS PosterLad OTP #43 – Artistic Monkshood Sylvester Stallone on screenwriting Barry Manilow “This One’s for You” Victoria Will
Bill got back from summer vacation and doesn't feel restored. So he and Jeffery spend some time discussing how to switch off. Skater and artist Ed Templeton is our photographer of the week. The Shark is Broken Daniel Milnor – Shifter: Question and Answer 54 Matthew Lesko Ed Templeton
How do we distinguish between things we make for us and things we make for money? That, submarines references, and a fairly deep dive into Bill's old Drabbles project are discussed. Squaring the Circle documentary Andy Warhol’s Factory of Truth on Cautionary Tales podcast Proto Drabble of Heather by Bill Wadman https://www.lucasstoffel.com/art Mines on the first day of the Somme in WWI
What's Jeffery working on lately? If not, why not? Also, does everyone think they're a fraud deep down and just keep it to themselves? Christian Witkin is our Photographer of the Week. Jeffery Saddoris Substack Chemtrail Conspiracy Theory Christian Witkin Portfolio Christian Witkin Instagram Post
Movies, PSH, fan theories, and oh yeah, only the dialectic pull of simultaneously not wanting to undersell or oversell yourself. We also get into the reasons for making art and how how all these AI LLM are kind of missing the point. Steve Schapiro is our Photographer of the Week. Tommy Westphall Universe Theory. CJ Hendry Illustrations on Instagram Painter Cecily Brown Jean Claude Van Damme in Breakin’ Speaking of Seeing with Sandi Robertson and Bill Wadman AI Girl with the Pearl Earring Steve Schapiro
Jeffery and Bill dive deep on the idea of community and new perspectives on old things. Including the Canon 5D from 2005 that Bill bought recently on a whim. Victor Skrebneski is the photographer of the week. Van Wilder Soft White Underbelly Poorest Region of America – What It Really Looks Like Gauntlet (Video Game) Walnut Grove – Then & Now Canon 5D Victor Skrebneski Victor Skrebneski on Wikipedia
What starts with a conversation about Bill’s new skateboard, and righting the sins of childhood leads us to discuss overcoming fear and mental paralysis. We also get a bit into the Adobe license news, the portraits of the King Charles, and Jeffery’s ideal trail bike. King Charles Official Portraits The Girl skateboard deck Bill bought Adobe tells users they can’t use old versions of Creative Cloud they paid for
In this episode, we talk about why simpler is often the more attractive solution and how not spending your creative life trying to do something new is okay. Plus, is having goals too goal oriented? Rudolf Schwarzkogler Aktion #2 John Singer Sargent A Capriote at the Boston MFA Fuji GFX 100s 14 bit vs 16 bit On Taking Pictures Ep. 177 recorded during a walk on the Washington DC Mall The Price of Everything Documentary John Keatley
We start with Bill going back to his roots in audio, first as a equipment repairman and then in due course a mix engineer. Which leads he and Jeffery into a discussion about getting turned around and losing your bearings. How do you know which direction to go? What if you've achieved your original goals and need to find new ones? Elly Smallwood on Instagram “Time Stops” Song by Bill Wadman – HQ file Adcom GFP-750 PreAmp review in Stereophile magazine from 1999 Inside of the Adcom GFP-750 from Bill’s twitter feed
Jeffery starts right out of the gate with a deep dive on how we're supposed to feel about how we're supposed to feel, which gets us to being overwhelmed while making things, which gets us to tethering to CaptureOne on the iPad and using diffusion filters to get the look we're after in camera if we can. Less options later, but perhaps that's what we're should be going for.
Jeffery's exploration of media, materials, and IKEA shelving leads us to a discussion of legacy and perspective and hope in creative endeavors. And yes, there's a bit of follow-up about Bill's GFX.
Jeffery and Bill are back on mic in 2023 discussing Bill's apprehension about his new camera purchase. Is it really the camera that's the problem or is it a stand-in for how he feels about the direction photography is headed?