Podcasts about Digital photography

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,023, October 28, 2025. Today's theme is, "The OM-3 Plus DxO PhotoLab 9 for My Upcoming Workshop." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue One of the things I really like about next week's Sonoma County Fall Workshop is the sheer variety of subject material. Every day is something new - perfect for the versatile OM System OM-3. And I'm pairing up my mighty MFT with some serious processing software: DxO PhotoLab 9.1. The workflow is a lot easier than you'd think. I'll explain why on this week's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,022, October 21, 2025. Today's theme is, "How I Lost My Shirt on a Wedding Photo Assignment." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue We all know that wedding photo assignments can be challenging, but you shouldn't lose your shirt in the process. Here's one such story that happened last week. Plus, DxO FilmPack 8, Annie Leibovitz, and more. All waiting for you on today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

A Nontechnical talk by Dr. Steven Kahn (University of California, Berkeley)Oct. 8, 2025The amazing Vera Rubin Observatory is a unique astronomy facility just built in Chile, with the largest digital camera in the world, designed to provide a time-lapse “movie” of the entire sky from the Earth's southern hemisphere.  Over its planned ten years of operation, the Rubin Observatory will obtain nearly 1,000 images of every part of that sky.  By comparing the various images, we will be able to detect everything that varies in brightness and everything that moves across the sky. By adding together all of the images, we will be able to catalog nearly 20 billion galaxies and a comparable number of stars.  After 20 years of development, this facility has just come on-line and will soon begin its nightly operations.  Prof. Kahn, who was Director of the Observatory during its construction phase, reviews the design, development, and construction of Rubin, and describes the exciting science that lies ahead.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,021, October 14, 2025. Today's theme is, "7 Techniques for Bending Reality in the Sierras." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue We're back from the Eastern Sierra! One discussion topic that ran through the entire week was "Keeping It Real or Going Surreal." Our photographers embraced a variety of approaches to create their own unique images, and I will share those with you on this week's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,020, October 7, 2025. Today's theme is, "5 Tips to Improve Your Photo Headshots." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue Last week I talked about AI-generated headshots, but what about those of us who still prefer photography? Well, this podcast is for you. Today I'll share my five favorite tips for compelling photo headshots. All of that, and more, on today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,019, Sept. 30, 2025. Today's theme is, "The Rise of AI-Generated Headshots." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue I just had an encounter with a potential client who opted for an AI-generated headshot over an in-person session. I did get to see the result, and it prompted me to do some research on this very popular alternative to photography. That experience, and what I learned, is the top story of today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,018, Sept. 23, 2025. Today's theme is, "Fall Color Just Around the Bend." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue Spring is beautiful, summer is energetic, but autumn can be spectacular. And in just a few weeks fall color will kick into high gear. We'll take a look at how nature creates this magical display, then talk about where and when to go to photograph it. All of this and more, on today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,017, Sept. 16, 2025. Today's theme is, "Telephoto Madness - OM System, Sigma, and More." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue September must be telephoto month. Big guns were announced by OM System, Sigma, and Sirui Aurora. Some of these are affordable, some are less so. But there's bound to be something for everyone. We'll take a look at the offerings on this week's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show. thenimblephotographer.com, click the box next to Donating a Film Camera, and let me know what you have. In your note, be sure to include your shipping address. Affiliate Links - The links to some products in this podcast contain an affiliate code that credits The Digital Story for any purchases made from B&H Photo and Amazon via that click-through. Depending on the purchase, we may receive some financial compensation. Red River Paper - And finally, be sure to visit our friends at Red River Paper for all of your inkjet supply needs. See you next week! You can share your thoughts at the TDS Facebook page, where I'll post this story for discussion.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,016, Sept. 10, 2025. Today's theme is, "iPhone 17 - Part 2." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue The star of the Sept. 9th Apple Presentation may have been the ultra-thin iPhone Air, but for serious photographers, all eyes were on the iPhone 17 Pro. And overall, Apple did not disappoint. Today I'll discuss the key features highlighting Apple's latest handset. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,016, Sept. 9, 2025. Today's theme is, "iPhone 17 - Part 1." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue Back in May, when I crushed the screen of my iPhone 15 Pro Max, I pledged that I would not buy a replacement until the iPhone 17 Pro was released. And I have stayed true to my word. But now the day is here. In this Part 1 report I will recap how I navigated the summer with a patchwork of devices to get me to this week's unveiling of the latest from Apple. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,015, Sept. 2, 2025. Today's theme is, "Creativity Through Pain." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue At one time or another, we all have to endure a physical setback - sometimes for a week, maybe a month, hopefully not longer. Pain is a motivation killer. So how do we make the best use of our downtime when things aren't going our way. We'll explore those options in the first segment of today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,014, August 26, 2025. Today's theme is, "Ricoh GR IV, More than Meets the Eye." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue $1,496 seems a lot to pay for a compact camera, that is, until you realize what everyone else will be charging for their products starting in September. So then we go to specs. Is this enough of an upgrade to warrant the price? I think it is, and will explain why in today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,013, August 19, 2025. Today's theme is, "5 Tips for Tasty Food Shots on the Go." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue I'm working on a review of the Stoke Voltaics Nomad Cooking System for TDS. It's a compact, electric kit that's super nimble and perfect for light camping photographers. As a result, I've been doing my fair share of food photography lately. I'll share some tips and tricks in the first segment of today's podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,012, August 12, 2025. Today's theme is, "How It All Began." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue I'm one of those odd folks who always knew what I wanted to do for a living. As a kid, I tormented my parents with requests to the photo shop for supplies to brew the alchemy for my own film processing. Then, in Junior High, I got my big break. And that story is how we lead off today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,011, August 5, 2025. Today's theme is, "There Is No Single Solution (when it comes to photo software)." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue Photo software is like streaming services. We want just one, but somehow we end up with many. Lightroom, Capture One, ON1, Luminar, Photos, Nitro, DXO - They're all so good! Why can't my favorite shows all be on one service? Well, they're not, and your software isn't either. So we have to construct a workflow that balances the features we want with the software we can afford. And that's the first story on today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

#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 COVEREDThe Pressure of Perfection and Editing in Modern Photography - Raymond discusses how digital tools, social media, and AI have shifted expectations toward perfection. He challenges the presumption that photos must always be edited, and recalls the joy of simple, unedited film photography. The key takeaway is to let go of perfection and rediscover the fun in photography.Imperfection as Art and Authenticity - The episode illustrates, with anecdotes from Raymond's wedding photography, the value of candid moments (like a flower girl picking her nose), emphasizing that these “flaws” make photos memorable and human. He connects this to the broader theme of authenticity, suggesting that imperfection is what sets human-made images apart from AI-generated ones.Practical Approach: Enjoyment and Mindset Shift (Plork) - Raymond introduces “plork” (play + work). He encourages listeners to shoot for enjoyment, intentionally practicing and experimenting with their cameras rather than working only to “fix” images later. Actionable advice includes shooting JPEGs, skipping editing, and focusing on moments that feel right rather than those that look perfect.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSPlork: A blend of play and work, meaning practicing a craft with a playful, no-pressure attitude. In photography, “plorking” means shooting for enjoyment while still improving your skills—the core mindset Raymond urges listeners to adopt.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSWhen do you feel most pressure to edit your photos, and how does it affect your enjoyment of photography?Can you think of a photo you love because of, not in spite of, its imperfections? Why does it resonate with you?What habits can you adopt to “plork” more during your photography sessions?RESOURCES:Check out the Headway App for book summaries - https://makeheadway.com/Book: "The Creative Act" by Rick RubinBook: "The Dude and the Zen Master" by Jeff BridgesSign 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!

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,010, July 29, 2025. Today's theme is, "Still Think Lightroom Is a Lightweight Compared to Classic?." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue When Lightroom CC debuted, it did feel more like a toy than serious software that could challenge its elder Classic sibling. But things have changed over the years, and the Cloud version, now just called Lightroom, has some serious chops. So much so, that it's now a legitimate rival to its elder. I'll explain why on today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

#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 COVEREDFinding Your Path in Photography - Dina shares how she did not set out to become a photographer, but her distinct way of seeing the world and a curiosity about visual storytelling led her to the camera. She discusses her transition from aspiring actor to dedicated photographer, and encourages beginners to “just do it”—advocating for action and experimentation over perfection from the start.Embracing Mistakes and Gaining Technical Mastery - Dina recounts real-life stories from her early career, emphasizing how setbacks and mistakes—like disappointing film results or technical failures on major shoots—became opportunities for growth. She underscores the importance of preparation, learning the fundamentals (especially light), and practicing relentlessly before critical assignments. Her approach includes making and learning from mistakes, remaining humble, and valuing ongoing practice.Editorial vs. Artistic Photography - The episode dives into the distinctions between editorial work (client-driven, often for magazines or businesses) versus personal art projects (driven by the artist's own vision). Dina explains the expectations, pressures, and creative compromises involved in each. She provides examples from her own career, contrasting the demands of magazine portraits with the fully conceptualized, collaborative productions required for series like Fallen Princesses and The Ten Commandments.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSEditorial Photography: Photography commissioned for publications, shaped by specific requirements from art directors or clients, as opposed to personal, self-driven art pieces.Artistic Eye: The innate or cultivated ability to see images, light, and composition in unique ways. Essential for transcending mere technical competence and creating meaningful work.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow do your personal experiences and worldview shape the themes you explore in your photography?When faced with setbacks or mistakes, what strategies can help you learn and grow rather than lose confidence?What distinguishes a meaningful personal project from a commercial or editorial assignment for you?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.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!

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,009, July 22, 2025. Today's theme is, "2 Big Updates - One Hot (Snapseed 3.0) and One Not (Sony RX1R III)." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue Out of the blue, Sony announced the RX1R III full frame compact digital camera. At a time when well-heeled portables are popular, you'd think this 61 MP dream machine would be an instant hit. Maybe. And speaking of surprises, how about that Snapseed 3.0 update? Didn't see that one coming either. One of these I'm absolutely thrilled about, and the other has me scratching my head. Find out which is which on today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

#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 COVEREDDefining Photography in the Age of AI - Shane and Raymond dissect the core of what makes an image a "photograph," highlighting the necessity of light, a subject, and a photosensitive medium or sensor. They underscore the risk of confusing AI-based image generation—which lacks these elements—with authentic photography, causing potential chaos in art, media, and historical documentation.Ethics, Ownership, and Historical Accuracy - Shane raises significant ethical concerns about AI training on billions of images without permission, including his own work, and questions who owns the resulting visuals. He warns about the dangers this presents to historical accuracy, imagining future scenarios where AI-generated portraits of people who never existed could mislead researchers or the public, blurring the line between fact and fiction.Terminology, Transparency, and the Future of Art - Shane advocates for distinct labeling of AI-generated imagery—suggesting terms like "promptography"—to prevent confusion and uphold the integrity of photography. He stresses the need for transparency so viewers know whether an image is a genuine photograph or an AI creation, believing that honesty and accurate terminology are essential as technology continues to evolve.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSWet Plate Collodion Photography: An early analog photographic process invented in 1851, involving capturing images on glass plates coated with chemicals sensitive to light. Shane's work in this medium exemplifies photography's physical, archival, and intentional qualities.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSWhat makes an image a photograph, and why does this distinction matter when considering AI-generated content?Should AI-generated images be considered art? If so, who holds the authorship—the prompt user or the AI?How might the widespread adoption of AI imagery change the way we perceive, document, or trust history?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.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!

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,008, July 15, 2025. Today's theme is, "Outdoor Gear That's Handy in Emergencies Too." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue Great camping gear is not only helpful for your next outdoor photo adventure, but it can also help you survive a climate emergency. I have recently tested some state of the art equipment that can prove most helpful in good times and bad. All of this, and more, on today's TDS Photography Podcast.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,007, July 8, 2025. Today's theme is, "Tech Tales from the Dark Side." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue On May 12th, I was en route to the TDS Redwoods Photo Workshop based in Klamath, CA. I had the EV ID.4 loaded up, and I was ready for a week of photography adventure. About halfway through my trip north, I had a technological mishap that I'm living with to this day. What happened, and how I'm dealing with it, is the first story in today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,006, July 1, 2025. Today's theme is, "The Enduring 20-Megapixel Sensor." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue Olympus released their first 20MP sensor back in 2016. Since then, their Live MOS or the stacked BSI Live MOS sensors have been inside their Micro Four Thirds cameras. And even though Panasonic has a 25 MP version, OM System has stuck with theirs. Today, you'll discover why. All of this and more on this week's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

This is The Digital Story Podcast 1,005, June 24, 2025. Today's theme is, "Costa Rica, Here We Come." I'm Derrick Story. Opening Monologue After our fantastic adventure in January, Rob and I decided that we should return to Costa Rica and bring along a few of our photographer friends who want to join us. If you're wondering how this all works, Rob Knight is joining me on the show so we share our thoughts from the last workshop, and explain what we want to do for the next one. All of that, and more, on this week's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.