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We often talk about framing a photo to get the best composition, but sometimes we don't nail it. Or we realize in editing that a tighter crop would be better. Or something crept into the edge of the frame at the last second. In this episode, we talk about cropping photos, whether AI cropping is worth trying, and why there's only One True Aspect Ratio. Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website, Jeff's photos, Jeff on Instagram, Jeff on Glass, Jeff on Mastodon, Jeff on Bluesky Kirk McElhearn: website, Kirk's photos, Kirk on Instagram, Kirk on Glass, Kirk on Mastodon, Kirk on Bluesky Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! LUMIX L10 Uncompromising Image Quality Panasonic Lumix L10 Review: Compact, Stylish, and Capable | PetaPixel Episode #13 - Aspect Ratios and Why They're Important — PhotoActive Podcast When editing this episode, Kirk went to the Guardian website, and the photos of the day were not all in 3:2 aspect ratio, whereas he is sure that in the past they almost always were. Most photos in this daily selection are in 3:2 but this is changing. Photos of the day | The Guardian Enlarging easel: this is the tool you use to crop when printing photos with an enlarger. Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive. Lumix L10 Aspect Ratios (Credit: Panasonic) Kirk's bread (Photo by Kirk McElhearn)
Apple is handing parents unprecedented control with new child safety and parental approval features. Rosemary Orchard and Mikah Sargent break down what's changed, how it works, and more iOS goodness during WWDC26 week! Apple's WWDC keynote reveals iOS 27 and platform-wide focus on AI, privacy, and performance Liquid Glass transparency and appearance now user-adjustable for accessibility Toolbars and UI restored for improved navigation and vision support Performance boosts: faster photos, AirDrop, and Spotlight search highlighted Intelligent networking promises smarter Wi-Fi and cellular switching Maps overhaul: more vivid detail with AI and satellite imagery New child safety features: granular app, contact, and website approvals Siri gets personal context, deeper app integration, and smart replies Advanced developer APIs and app intents previewed for on-device AI features Generative photo editing arrives: extend, clean up, and a new Reframe tool System-wide suggestions and information surfacing in Mail, Messages, and calls Quality-of-life updates: independent alarm/ringer/music volumes, swipable now playing Shortcuts Corner: Natural language shortcut creation and changes to automation workflows Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv. Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord. Sponsor: shopify.com/ios
Apple is handing parents unprecedented control with new child safety and parental approval features. Rosemary Orchard and Mikah Sargent break down what's changed, how it works, and more iOS goodness during WWDC26 week! Apple's WWDC keynote reveals iOS 27 and platform-wide focus on AI, privacy, and performance Liquid Glass transparency and appearance now user-adjustable for accessibility Toolbars and UI restored for improved navigation and vision support Performance boosts: faster photos, AirDrop, and Spotlight search highlighted Intelligent networking promises smarter Wi-Fi and cellular switching Maps overhaul: more vivid detail with AI and satellite imagery New child safety features: granular app, contact, and website approvals Siri gets personal context, deeper app integration, and smart replies Advanced developer APIs and app intents previewed for on-device AI features Generative photo editing arrives: extend, clean up, and a new Reframe tool System-wide suggestions and information surfacing in Mail, Messages, and calls Quality-of-life updates: independent alarm/ringer/music volumes, swipable now playing Shortcuts Corner: Natural language shortcut creation and changes to automation workflows Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv. Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord. Sponsor: shopify.com/ios
Apple is handing parents unprecedented control with new child safety and parental approval features. Rosemary Orchard and Mikah Sargent break down what's changed, how it works, and more iOS goodness during WWDC26 week! • Apple's WWDC keynote reveals iOS 27 and platform-wide focus on AI, privacy, and performance • Liquid Glass transparency and appearance now user-adjustable for accessibility • Toolbars and UI restored for improved navigation and vision support • Performance boosts: faster photos, AirDrop, and Spotlight search highlighted • Intelligent networking promises smarter Wi-Fi and cellular switching • Maps overhaul: more vivid detail with AI and satellite imagery • New child safety features: granular app, contact, and website approvals • Siri gets personal context, deeper app integration, and smart replies • Advanced developer APIs and app intents previewed for on-device AI features • Generative photo editing arrives: extend, clean up, and a new Reframe tool • System-wide suggestions and information surfacing in Mail, Messages, and calls • Quality-of-life updates: independent alarm/ringer/music volumes, swipable now playing • Shortcuts Corner: Natural language shortcut creation and changes to automation workflows Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv. Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord. Sponsor: shopify.com/ios
Apple is handing parents unprecedented control with new child safety and parental approval features. Rosemary Orchard and Mikah Sargent break down what's changed, how it works, and more iOS goodness during WWDC26 week! Apple's WWDC keynote reveals iOS 27 and platform-wide focus on AI, privacy, and performance Liquid Glass transparency and appearance now user-adjustable for accessibility Toolbars and UI restored for improved navigation and vision support Performance boosts: faster photos, AirDrop, and Spotlight search highlighted Intelligent networking promises smarter Wi-Fi and cellular switching Maps overhaul: more vivid detail with AI and satellite imagery New child safety features: granular app, contact, and website approvals Siri gets personal context, deeper app integration, and smart replies Advanced developer APIs and app intents previewed for on-device AI features Generative photo editing arrives: extend, clean up, and a new Reframe tool System-wide suggestions and information surfacing in Mail, Messages, and calls Quality-of-life updates: independent alarm/ringer/music volumes, swipable now playing Shortcuts Corner: Natural language shortcut creation and changes to automation workflows Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv. Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord. Sponsor: shopify.com/ios
Apple is handing parents unprecedented control with new child safety and parental approval features. Rosemary Orchard and Mikah Sargent break down what's changed, how it works, and more iOS goodness during WWDC26 week! • Apple's WWDC keynote reveals iOS 27 and platform-wide focus on AI, privacy, and performance • Liquid Glass transparency and appearance now user-adjustable for accessibility • Toolbars and UI restored for improved navigation and vision support • Performance boosts: faster photos, AirDrop, and Spotlight search highlighted • Intelligent networking promises smarter Wi-Fi and cellular switching • Maps overhaul: more vivid detail with AI and satellite imagery • New child safety features: granular app, contact, and website approvals • Siri gets personal context, deeper app integration, and smart replies • Advanced developer APIs and app intents previewed for on-device AI features • Generative photo editing arrives: extend, clean up, and a new Reframe tool • System-wide suggestions and information surfacing in Mail, Messages, and calls • Quality-of-life updates: independent alarm/ringer/music volumes, swipable now playing • Shortcuts Corner: Natural language shortcut creation and changes to automation workflows Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv. Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord. Sponsor: shopify.com/ios
Apple is handing parents unprecedented control with new child safety and parental approval features. Rosemary Orchard and Mikah Sargent break down what's changed, how it works, and more iOS goodness during WWDC26 week! Apple's WWDC keynote reveals iOS 27 and platform-wide focus on AI, privacy, and performance Liquid Glass transparency and appearance now user-adjustable for accessibility Toolbars and UI restored for improved navigation and vision support Performance boosts: faster photos, AirDrop, and Spotlight search highlighted Intelligent networking promises smarter Wi-Fi and cellular switching Maps overhaul: more vivid detail with AI and satellite imagery New child safety features: granular app, contact, and website approvals Siri gets personal context, deeper app integration, and smart replies Advanced developer APIs and app intents previewed for on-device AI features Generative photo editing arrives: extend, clean up, and a new Reframe tool System-wide suggestions and information surfacing in Mail, Messages, and calls Quality-of-life updates: independent alarm/ringer/music volumes, swipable now playing Shortcuts Corner: Natural language shortcut creation and changes to automation workflows Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv. Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord. Sponsor: shopify.com/ios
Apple is handing parents unprecedented control with new child safety and parental approval features. Rosemary Orchard and Mikah Sargent break down what's changed, how it works, and more iOS goodness during WWDC26 week! Apple's WWDC keynote reveals iOS 27 and platform-wide focus on AI, privacy, and performance Liquid Glass transparency and appearance now user-adjustable for accessibility Toolbars and UI restored for improved navigation and vision support Performance boosts: faster photos, AirDrop, and Spotlight search highlighted Intelligent networking promises smarter Wi-Fi and cellular switching Maps overhaul: more vivid detail with AI and satellite imagery New child safety features: granular app, contact, and website approvals Siri gets personal context, deeper app integration, and smart replies Advanced developer APIs and app intents previewed for on-device AI features Generative photo editing arrives: extend, clean up, and a new Reframe tool System-wide suggestions and information surfacing in Mail, Messages, and calls Quality-of-life updates: independent alarm/ringer/music volumes, swipable now playing Shortcuts Corner: Natural language shortcut creation and changes to automation workflows Hosts: Mikah Sargent and Rosemary Orchard Contact iOS Today at iOSToday@twit.tv. Download or subscribe to iOS Today at https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today Join Club TWiT for Ad-Free Podcasts! Support what you love and get ad-free audio and video feeds, a members-only Discord, and exclusive content. Join today: https://twit.tv/clubtwit Club TWiT members can discuss this episode and leave feedback in the Club TWiT Discord. Sponsor: shopify.com/ios
Sorg and Dave Podnar break down a packed tech week on AwesomeCast 782, including Apple's WWDC announcements, new Apple Intelligence features, child safety updates, and how Siri may finally become more useful across devices. The show also dives into He-Man movie nostalgia, Nintendo Direct news, video game preservation laws, and practical podcast lighting gear. Stories & Gadgets Discussed Apple WWDC 2026 recap: Siri AI, Apple Intelligence, OS 27 updates, platform integration, device support, and on-device search https://techcrunch.com/2026/06/09/wwdc-2026-everything-announced-on-siri-ai-os-27-apple-intelligence-and-more/ https://www.apple.com/os/ Apple photo “reframing” and improved generative photo tools discussed from Dave's example https://share.icloud.com/photos/0297Gj_aPuBo97xcOeuMEKq8g Apple Developer app as a resource for WWDC sessions and platform deep dives https://apps.apple.com/us/app/apple-developer/id640199958 He-Man movie reactions, Masters of the Universe nostalgia, Skeletor memes, and mobile He-Man games https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mattel.amethyst&hl=en-US&pli=1 Pride Month tech history spotlight: Lynn Conway and her pioneering work in chip design https://www.invent.org/inductees/lynn-conway Chachi Says Video Game Minute: California's Protect Our Games Act moves forward https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/us-bill-requiring-paid-games-to-be-playable-after-they-shut-down-has-passed-initial-vote-and-moved-to-the-senate/ Paramount launches a new games studio https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/paramount-games-studio-launches-tony-driscoll-leads-1236614610/ Amazon may move future 007 game development in-house https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/amazon-suggests-io-interactive-might-not-return-for-007-first-light-sequel Nintendo Direct reactions: Star Fox demo, Zelda Ocarina remake talk, Kingdom Hearts 4, and Switch 2 edition discussion https://www.theverge.com/entertainment/947120/nintendo-direct-june-2026-analysis Awesome Tip of the Week: Sorg talks about using Neewer NL192AI LED panel lights for podcast and studio video production.
Sorg and Dave Podnar break down a packed tech week on AwesomeCast 782, including Apple's WWDC announcements, new Apple Intelligence features, child safety updates, and how Siri may finally become more useful across devices. The show also dives into He-Man movie nostalgia, Nintendo Direct news, video game preservation laws, and practical podcast lighting gear. Stories & Gadgets Discussed Apple WWDC 2026 recap: Siri AI, Apple Intelligence, OS 27 updates, platform integration, device support, and on-device search https://techcrunch.com/2026/06/09/wwdc-2026-everything-announced-on-siri-ai-os-27-apple-intelligence-and-more/ https://www.apple.com/os/ Apple photo “reframing” and improved generative photo tools discussed from Dave's example https://share.icloud.com/photos/0297Gj_aPuBo97xcOeuMEKq8g Apple Developer app as a resource for WWDC sessions and platform deep dives https://apps.apple.com/us/app/apple-developer/id640199958 He-Man movie reactions, Masters of the Universe nostalgia, Skeletor memes, and mobile He-Man games https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mattel.amethyst&hl=en-US&pli=1 Pride Month tech history spotlight: Lynn Conway and her pioneering work in chip design https://www.invent.org/inductees/lynn-conway Chachi Says Video Game Minute: California's Protect Our Games Act moves forward https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/us-bill-requiring-paid-games-to-be-playable-after-they-shut-down-has-passed-initial-vote-and-moved-to-the-senate/ Paramount launches a new games studio https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/paramount-games-studio-launches-tony-driscoll-leads-1236614610/ Amazon may move future 007 game development in-house https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/amazon-suggests-io-interactive-might-not-return-for-007-first-light-sequel Nintendo Direct reactions: Star Fox demo, Zelda Ocarina remake talk, Kingdom Hearts 4, and Switch 2 edition discussion https://www.theverge.com/entertainment/947120/nintendo-direct-june-2026-analysis Awesome Tip of the Week: Sorg talks about using Neewer NL192AI LED panel lights for podcast and studio video production.
Before you go out to do some photography, how do you determine where to go? Jeff had a portrait session booked and discovered that the location was fenced and blocked -- but scouting in advance gave him time to find a new spot. We talk about tools and techniques for finding the best photo spots and conditions. Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website, Jeff's photos, Jeff on Instagram, Jeff on Glass, Jeff on Mastodon, Jeff on Bluesky Kirk McElhearn: website, Kirk's photos, Kirk on Instagram, Kirk on Glass, Kirk on Mastodon, Kirk on Bluesky Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! Google Maps Storm Radar app TPE Lumy Best Budget Coffee Grinders for 2026, CoffeeGeek Jeff's Snapshot MiiCoffee DF54 Single Dose Coffee Grinder Kirk's Snapshot Ankarsrum Mixer Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive. Jeff defends his spot throughout the day in the Piazzale Michaelangelo in Florence, Italy. (Photo: Jeff Carlson) One of the photos from that spot in Florence. (Photo: Jeff Carlson) The Photographer's Ephemeris (TPE)
Our conversation in this episode started with news of John Ternus becoming the next CEO of Apple as of September 1, but that led to an intriguing concept that isn't as far-fetched as it might seem: What if Apple makes its own camera? Imagine a fixed-lens compact mirrorless with a larger sensor, better glass, and all of the technologies Apple has developed for the iPhone. Could it happen? We get into the details. (Photo: Apple QuickTake 200, by Don DeBold. Used by Creative Commons license.) Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website, Jeff's photos, Jeff on Instagram, Jeff on Glass, Jeff on Mastodon, Jeff on Bluesky Kirk McElhearn: website, Kirk's photos, Kirk on Instagram, Kirk on Glass, Kirk on Mastodon, Kirk on Bluesky Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! Apple Leadership - John Ternus Apple in China: The Capture of the World's Greatest Company, Patrick McGee tado smart thermostat AppleCD - Wikipedia StyleWriter - Wikipedia Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
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Risk & Liability in Real Estate: What Buyers, Sellers, and Agents Need to Know Real estate transactions involve much more than finding the perfect home or receiving the highest offer. Behind every showing, contract, inspection, and closing is something every buyer, seller, and agent must carefully navigate: risk and liability. During a recent episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable, Sharon McNamara and Melissa Wallace discussed the many ways risk and liability impact real estate transactions and why transparency, professionalism, and proper procedures matter now more than ever. Whether you are buying, selling, or representing a client, understanding these responsibilities can help protect everyone involved. What Does “Risk and Liability” Mean in Real Estate? As Melissa Wallace explained during the show: Risk is the possibility that something could go wrong. Liability is being legally or financially responsible when it does. And in real estate, there are many moving parts: Buyers Sellers Listing agents Buyer's agents Attorneys Lenders Home inspectors Contractors Appraisers When communication breaks down or proper procedures are ignored, problems can arise quickly. Why Disclosure Matters So Much One of the most important responsibilities in real estate is disclosure. Listing agents and sellers are expected to disclose known material facts about a property. However, Sharon pointed out that agents can only disclose what they know and what sellers truthfully communicate to them. That is why honesty and documentation are critical. Common Items That Should Be Disclosed Some examples discussed during the show included: Roof age and condition Radon mitigation systems Mold issues Septic system failures Structural concerns Water intrusion Mechanical issues like heating or AC systems Even when an issue has been repaired, it is still important to disclose it properly and maintain receipts and documentation. Keep Your Records One major takeaway from the discussion: Keep receipts for everything. Service records, permits, inspection reports, and repair invoices can help protect sellers if questions arise later. The Risk of Misrepresentation Another major topic was marketing accuracy and how easy it can be for listings to unintentionally cross the line into misrepresentation. Bedroom Count & Septic Systems One common issue in Massachusetts involves bedroom counts versus septic capacity. A home may physically appear to have four bedrooms, but if the septic system is only approved for three bedrooms, advertising it incorrectly could create liability later. Instead of exaggerating, agents should market properties accurately: “Three-bedroom septic with bonus room” “Additional flex space” “Home office or guest room” Clear and accurate marketing protects everyone involved. AI, Photo Editing & Real Estate Marketing The conversation also highlighted how artificial intelligence and photo enhancement tools are creating new areas of liability in real estate marketing. Today, agents can: Brighten skies Enhance grass Virtually stage rooms Improve lighting and colors While these tools can make listings more visually appealing, Melissa Wallace explained that agents must be careful not to create misleading expectations. For example: Advertising unrealistic landscaping Altering property features Misrepresenting the true condition of a home Transparency matters. If enhancements are made, proper disclosures may be necessary. Property Access & Lockbox Security One of the most important and emotional parts of the episode focused on property access and seller safety. Sharon and Melissa discussed several situations where buyers were improperly sent to homes without appointments and were given lockbox access codes by agents. Why This Is a Serious Problem When agents allow unauthorized access: Sellers feel unsafe Buyers may unknowingly trespass Liability increases dramatically Theft, damage, or injury could occur As Melissa explained: If you do not have permission or an appointment, you are trespassing. In one situation discussed on the show: Buyers entered a home without a proper appointment Contractors were present Furniture was damaged The seller unexpectedly arrived home and felt violated in their own space These are exactly the kinds of situations professional procedures are designed to prevent. Why Accompanied Showings Matter At Boston Connect Real Estate, accompanied showings and proper appointment scheduling are taken seriously because protecting the seller's property is part of an agent's fiduciary responsibility. Every person entering a home should: Have permission Have a scheduled appointment Be accompanied by a licensed professional when appropriate Respect the seller's property and privacy A lockbox code should never be casually shared. Fiduciary Responsibility: Protecting Your Client A fiduciary responsibility means agents are legally and ethically required to act in their client's best interest. That includes: Maintaining confidentiality Providing accurate information Disclosing known facts Protecting property access Avoiding misrepresentation Communicating honestly throughout the transaction Sharon emphasized that agents cannot decide what information is “important enough” for clients to know. If information could potentially impact a buyer's or seller's decision, it should be disclosed. Home Inspections & Unexpected Issues The show also discussed how inspections can create unexpected liability concerns. Sometimes problems simply cannot be seen during a home inspection: Closed pools during winter Hidden water damage Seasonal mechanical issues Conditions behind walls or ceilings Even with inspections, surprises can happen after closing. This is why: Sellers should disclose what they know Buyers should conduct proper due diligence Agents should document everything carefully Transparency Protects Everyone One theme remained consistent throughout the entire conversation: Disclose. Communicate. Document. Trying to hide issues or avoid difficult conversations almost always creates larger problems later. Transparency helps: Build trust Reduce liability Prevent disputes Protect buyers and sellers Create smoother transactions Final Thoughts Real estate is one of the largest financial transactions most people will ever make. With so many moving parts, risk and liability exist at every stage of the process. But with: ✔ Honest communication ✔ Accurate marketing ✔ Proper disclosures ✔ Professional procedures ✔ Respect for client property and privacy buyers, sellers, and agents can navigate transactions more safely and successfully. At Boston Connect Real Estate, we believe every move should be a moving experience and that includes protecting our clients every step of the way. Watch our live video on Youtube!
Apple will reportedly introduce new AI editing tools that will let users extend the background of photos, enhance image quality and reframe images. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The well regarded video editor DaVinci Resolve just introduced a Photos module inside the app, making some people wonder whether the free software could replace traditional photography tools like Lightroom. We also talk about a book of passport photos, photos that change history and film simulations. (Image: Black Magic Design) Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website, Jeff's photos, Jeff on Instagram, Jeff on Glass, Jeff on Mastodon, Jeff on Bluesky Kirk McElhearn: website, Kirk's photos, Kirk on Instagram, Kirk on Glass, Kirk on Mastodon, Kirk on Bluesky Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! Book Review: 'Passport Photo Service,' by Philip SHarkey, NYTimes Occasionally a picture can change the course of history, The Guardian DaVinci Resolve The color grading tool used by Hollywood now supports still photos - and it's free, Digital Camera World The film simulation rabbit hole: Why digital photographers are obsessing over analog looks, Digital Camera World Episode #8 - Gordon Laing on Taking Great Photos In Camera The difference between drinking coffee and tea Parachute Backup at Mac App Store Episodes on Backups Jeff's Snapshot EPSON inkjet printer cleaning sheet A4 size 3 pieces MJCLS Kirk's Snapshot Parachute Backup app Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
We remain fascinated by monochrome cameras, and this week we discovered just how tough it is to source the sensors used by the Ricoh GR IV Monochrome. We also talk about DNG, Adobe's universal raw format, becoming an official image standard (and why the big camera companies probably won't adopt it). And if you hadn't heard, Apple turned 50! Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website, Jeff's photos, Jeff on Instagram, Jeff on Glass, Jeff on Mastodon, Jeff on Bluesky Kirk McElhearn: website, Kirk's photos, Kirk on Instagram, Kirk on Glass, Kirk on Mastodon, Kirk on Bluesky Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! The GR IV Monochrome Is Expensive Because the Sensor Is Hard to Source GR IV Monochrome Nvidia CEO's Defense Of DLSS 5 Gets Contradicted By One Of His Employees After Over 20 Years of Efforts, DNG Is Now the Official RAW Image Standard Apple's Best Products in Its 50 Year History, According to CNET 'Restoring' Old Photos With AI Is a Fundamentally Broken Concept Abraham Lincoln colorized Jeff's Snapshot Take Control of iPhone Photography Kirk's Snapshot David Pogue Writes the History of Apple Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
Plus - Google quietly launched an AI dictation app that works offline; Intel signs on to Elon Musk's Terafab chips project Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
So it's come to this. Generative AI has quickly gotten so good that it's hard to distinguish real photos from generated ones. So where do we go from here? We talk about C2PA authentication, trusting your sources, and more. (Image: Generated with Adobe Firefly) Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website, Jeff's photos, Jeff on Instagram, Jeff on Glass, Jeff on Mastodon, Jeff on Bluesky Kirk McElhearn: website, Kirk's photos, Kirk on Instagram, Kirk on Glass, Kirk on Mastodon, Kirk on Bluesky Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! Inspiring International Garden Photographer of the Year Winners (PetaPixel) Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) Google Thinks AI Can Make You a Better Photographer: I Dive Into the Pixel 10 Cameras Fujifilm will explore the potential of 1-inch sensors, Digital Camera World Fujifilm Instax Mini 13 AirPods Max 2 My Original AirPods Max Stopped Working, So I Put Them in the Freezer. Really Jeff's Snapshot Anker Soundcore Space One Kirk's Snapshot Logitech MX Creative Console Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
Apple has announced the MacBook Neo, a $600 laptop running on the same A18 Pro processor that was used in the iPhone 16 Pro. Oh, and it has 8GB of RAM and starts at 256GB of storage. Believe it or not, lots of people on the Internet take issue with those specs, so we look at it from the point of view of whether it could be a good machine for photographers who blew all their money on a $10,000 Leica f/1.2 lens. Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website, Jeff's photos, Jeff on Instagram, Jeff on Glass, Jeff on Mastodon, Jeff on Bluesky Kirk McElhearn: website, Kirk's photos, Kirk on Instagram, Kirk on Glass, Kirk on Mastodon, Kirk on Bluesky Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! MacBook Neo You Probably Don't Need an f/1.2 Lens Leica Leitzphone Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
The prices of digital storage are set to climb this year because AI is eating up all the available inventory. And modern photography is entirely dependent on storage, whether it's the SD cards that store the captured images, the internal solid-state memory that stores data on your computer, or the external SSDs and traditional hard drives that keep your archive of photos. Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website, Jeff's photos, Jeff on Instagram, Jeff on Glass, Jeff on Mastodon, Jeff on Bluesky Kirk McElhearn: website, Kirk's photos, Kirk on Instagram, Kirk on Glass, Kirk on Mastodon, Kirk on Bluesky Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! Western Digital is out of hard drives, because Ai (of course) Take Control of Your Digital Storage Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
Have an idea or tip? Send us a text!Ever wish your edits moved fast? We sat down with Jay Peterson of Evoto to unpack how AI can make portrait workflows radically quicker without removing the realism that clients recognize and trust. Peterson explains Evoto's slider-first, standalone desktop editor and how its proprietary algorithms target the work that slows pros down—frequency separation, dodging and burning, glasses glare, and flyaway hair—while keeping processing local for privacy and consistency.We also discuss Evoto's short-lived AI headshot generator function. Peterson shares what happened, why the positioning landed poorly with working photographers, and the decision to kill it. The takeaway is bigger than one feature—if you serve pros, you build for pros, and your messaging must respect the craft. Authenticity isn't a buzzword here; it's the backbone of trust, referrals, and long-term client relationships. That means edits that look like people, not plastic, and tools that make deadlines easier without erasing intent.From there, we dive into the issues everyone's arguing about: training data, school photo privacy, and the anxiety that “AI will replace me.” Peterson details Evoto's no-touch stance—local processing, no cloud file access, and opt-in, paid datasets—plus why plain-English communication beats policy-speak when parents and clients ask tough questions.PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For InterviewsMediaclipMediaclip strives to continuously enhance the user experience while dramatically increasing revenue.Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEIndependent Photo ImagersIPI is a member + trade association and a cooperative buying group in the photo + print industry.Photo Imaging CONNECTThe Photo Imaging CONNECT conference, March 1-2, 2026, at the RIO Hotel and Resort in Las Vegas, NDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showSign up for the Dead Pixels Society newsletter at http://bit.ly/DeadPixelsSignUp.Contact us at gary@thedeadpixelssociety.comVisit our LinkedIn group, Photo/Digital Imaging Network, and Facebook group, The Dead Pixels Society. Leave a review on Apple and Podchaser. Are you interested in being a guest? Click here for details.Hosted and produced by Gary PageauAnnouncer: Erin Manning
The best-selling compact camera in Japan is from... Kodak? We've talked about compact cameras in the past, but it remains a fascinating part of the photo marketplace as people look for something different than mirrorless and DSLR cameras. By the way, do you have $10,000 to spare on a new 35mm lens? Leica's Noctilux-M 35mm f/1.2 ASPH was just announced at that eye-watering price. Lastly, Jeff covers some new Lightroom features in the latest versions. (Photo: Leica) Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website, Jeff's photos, Jeff on Instagram, Jeff on Glass, Jeff on Mastodon, Jeff on Bluesky Kirk McElhearn: website, Kirk's photos, Kirk on Instagram, Kirk on Glass, Kirk on Mastodon, Kirk on Bluesky Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! I Asked AI to Predict the Weather. It's About as Reliable as a Groundhog - CNET Compact Camera Sales More Than Doubled Last Year in Japan | PetaPixel Regarding the price of the Ricoh GR cameras, Kirk was thinking of the prices in the UK. In the US, the prices are $1,600 and and $2.200. Noctilux-M 35 f/1.2 ASPH. | Leica Camera US Leica 35mm Noctilux-M f/1.2 ASPH Review: A Long Time Coming | PetaPixel Adobe Lightroom Classic release notes Aftershoot Thomas Pynchon: Vineland (Kirk said it was published in 1980; that should be 1990) How 'One Battle After Another' Shot the Car Chase Scene Like a Gritty '70s Film - YouTube Jeff's Snapshot The Uncool by Cameron Crowe Kirk's Snapshot One Battle After Another Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
App Masters - App Marketing & App Store Optimization with Steve P. Young
Most AI photo apps try to do everything, and end up blending in.In this video, Steve P. Young breaks down how Photo Revive AI scaled to over $500K/month by doing the opposite: niching down first, then expanding later.Instead of launching as “another AI image generator,” this app positioned itself around photo restoration and revival and used smart ASO, onboarding, and paywall strategies to win in a brutally competitive market.You'll learn:✅ Why niching down beats competing in red-hot AI categories✅ How Photo Revive AI generates ~$500K/month (verified across multiple tools)✅ The exact onboarding and paywall flow driving conversions✅ How credit-based pricing controls AI costs and boosts revenue✅ Why distribution matters more than features or UISteve walks through:• Real revenue estimates from Sensor Tower, AppFigures, and AppMagic• The full user journey from install → upgrade• Paywall tactics most founders overlook• How to start a niche, win early traction, and expand laterIf you're building:
Now we know what Apple is doing with Pixelmator Pro after its acquisition of Pixelmator: it's part of the new Apple Creator Studio bundle. Also, we celebrate the latest black and white camera to hit the market, the Ricoh GR IV Monochrome, and ponder large-format photographer Sally Mann's discovery of digital photography. Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website, Jeff's photos, Jeff on Instagram, Jeff on Glass, Jeff on Mastodon, Jeff on Bluesky Kirk McElhearn: website, Kirk's photos, Kirk on Instagram, Kirk on Glass, Kirk on Mastodon, Kirk on Bluesky Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! The Ink Drinker, Seattle Episode 60: Machine Learning with Andrius Gailiunas and Pixelmator Pro Ricoh GR IV Monochrome PetaPixel Video Sally Mann, Digital Camera World Episode 141: You Say You Want a Resolution Jeff's Snapshot Reflections: On Cinematography, Roger Deakins Kirk's Snapshot None Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
Is your phone not accurately capturing the world around you? An article in the Guardian questions whether image processing in smartphones is making photos that aren't genuine. Also, Leica released a firmware update that radically changes the entire interface, leading to a discussion of how important the UI in our cameras is when making photos. Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website (https://jeffcarlson.com), Jeff's photos (https://jeffcarlson.com/portfolio/), Jeff on Instagram (http://instagram.com/jeffcarlson), Jeff on Glass (https://glass.photo/jeff-carlson), Jeff on Mastodon (https://twit.social/@jeffcarlson), Jeff on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/jeffcarlson.bsky.social) Kirk McElhearn: website (https://www.kirkville.com), Kirk's photos (https://photos.kirkville.com), Kirk on Instagram (https://instagram.com/mcelhearn), Kirk on Glass (https://glass.photo/mcelhearn), Kirk on Mastodon (https://journa.host/@mcelhearn), Kirk on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/kirkville.com) Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co (https://www.photoactive.co/home/episode-201-whats-real)) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) Now that phones alter our photos without us knowing, how do we know what's real? (https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/dec/23/smartphones-photos-filters-pictures-software) Episode 114: Bryan Jones on Why Color Doesn't Exist (https://www.photoactive.co/home/episode-114-jones-color) Leica Q3 firmware update (https://leica-camera.com/en-GB/photography/q?cpid=c018e3e0aee64121a88a95ad52b645b1#firmware) Leica's engraved fonts (https://arun.is/blog/leica-font/) Leica TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@leica_camera_official/video/7587076089801952544) Actions Ring - On Screen Overlay (https://www.logitech.com/en-us/software/logi-options-plus/actions-ring.html) 3M Precise Mouse Pad (https://amzn.to/4jhTDW6) Kirk's Snapshot Logitech MX Master 4 (https://amzn.to/499oK1f) Jeff's Snapshot Moment Tripod Mount for MagSafe (https://www.shopmoment.com/products/moment-pro-tripod-mount-for-magsafe) Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site (https://photoactive.co) to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/photoactivecast/) to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
Two Hundred episodes! To celebrate roughly seven and a half years of the PhotoActive podcast, Kirk and Jeff picked some favorite photos from the digital cameras they've owned. Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website (https://jeffcarlson.com), Jeff's photos (https://jeffcarlson.com/portfolio/), Jeff on Instagram (http://instagram.com/jeffcarlson), Jeff on Glass (https://glass.photo/jeff-carlson), Jeff on Mastodon (https://twit.social/@jeffcarlson), Jeff on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/jeffcarlson.bsky.social) Kirk McElhearn: website (https://www.kirkville.com), Kirk's photos (https://photos.kirkville.com), Kirk on Instagram (https://instagram.com/mcelhearn), Kirk on Glass (https://glass.photo/mcelhearn), Kirk on Mastodon (https://journa.host/@mcelhearn), Kirk on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/kirkville.com) Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co (https://www.photoactive.co/home/episode-200-all-cameras)) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) Episode 35: Martin Parr Shot My Portrait (https://www.photoactive.co/home/episode-35-parr) Martin Parr on collecting photobooks, shooting tennis, and the challenges of modern street photography (https://www.popphoto.com/how-to/martin-parr-interview-collecting-photobooks/), Popular Photography Remote Scottish Postboxes (https://martinparrfoundation.org/product/remote-scottish-postboxes/), Martin Parr Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site (https://photoactive.co) to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/photoactivecast/) to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
Does the amount of time you spend editing photos make you want to rip your hair out? Editing is a huge pain point for elopement photographers. Whether you're drowning in galleries or struggling to create a consistent style, it's keeping you from the thing you want most, which is more freedom, more creativity, and a business that feels sustainable. In this episode, I have my own editor, Christopher Wurzbach of LUXEDIT, to talk about ways to make the editing process easier. He shares the importance of defining and sticking to one consistent editing style, how to cut your edits down to one minute per photo, and the ways AI can actually help when editing. He also gives some tools, shortcuts, and systems that help photographers escape the editing cave. If you're ready for editing to feel lighter, faster, and far less overwhelming, hit play now and learn how to take back your time and get back to the part of elopement photography that you love. Connect with Chris: LUXEDIT Website:www.luxeditlab.com/ LUXEDIT IG:instagram.com/luxeditlab/ Get help defining your editing style: www.editwithchristopher.com Power Keys, editing tool: Website: getpowerkeys.com IG: @powerkeysapp Apply now for the Dream Destination Workshop The 2026 lineup for the Dream Destination Workshop: Alaska: July 12-17, 2026 Iceland: August 2-7, 2026 Switzerland: August 10-15, 2026 Connect with Megan:
Join the Imagen Community on Facebook to continue the discussions between episodes.Feeling swamped by the demands of running a photography business or two? Discover how effective workflows and clear boundaries can unlock productivity, creativity, and precious family time. This episode shows working photographers how to balance multiple projects without burning out.Scott sits down with Toronto-based wedding photographers and educators Gary & Kim Evans. Together, they break down the secrets behind running multiple photography businesses, including traditional weddings, pop-up weddings, headshots, Santa sessions, and international photographer retreats all while keeping work-life balance in check.Gary & Kim share how they've developed systems to keep their businesses running smoothly, tips for choosing the right tools, and the importance of saying “no” to non-essential projects. Whether you're shooting weddings or running portrait sessions, this episode will help you streamline and get more done in less time.“Our workflows have been so efficient that we've been able to open another brand. It's finding the right tools for each niche, so you don't have to think about it again—it just becomes part of the normal.”ResourcesThe Retreat17hatsCloudSpotConvertKitSmartAlbumsWhy You Should ListenDiscover actionable workflows for photographers handling multiple brands or services.Learn real-world tips for dividing business roles and reducing friction (especially for couples).Get advice on choosing the best software to boost efficiency and profits.Find out how pop-up weddings can open surprising revenue streams.Feel inspired by simple strategies to protect your family time without sacrificing business growth.Listen now and take the first step toward a more organized, productive, and fulfilling photography business!Ready to organize your photography business, reclaim your calendar? Subscribe and listen to Workflows on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app!(00:00) - 74 (01:26) - Managing Multiple Businesses and Niches (03:43) - Exploring Pop-Up Weddings and Seasonal Sessions (09:52) - International Retreats and New Ventures (21:59) - Client Experience: Traditional vs. Popup Weddings (22:57) - Marketing Popup Weddings: Stress-Free and Unique (29:36) - Balancing Creativity and Workflow (36:11) - Advice for Photographers: Time Management and Embracing Technology
We get views into two very different types of photography in this episode. Jeff travels to Nevada for the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix where the cars' speed is a challenge to photograph... but not as difficult as the rules set by the Formula 1 organization. Then we look at the fascinating dye-transfer process and how this dying art is being used to print William Eggleston's prints. Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website (https://jeffcarlson.com), Jeff's photos (https://jeffcarlson.com/portfolio/), Jeff on Instagram (http://instagram.com/jeffcarlson), Jeff on Glass (https://glass.photo/jeff-carlson), Jeff on Mastodon (https://twit.social/@jeffcarlson), Jeff on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/jeffcarlson.bsky.social) Kirk McElhearn: website (https://www.kirkville.com), Kirk's photos (https://photos.kirkville.com), Kirk on Instagram (https://instagram.com/mcelhearn), Kirk on Glass (https://glass.photo/mcelhearn), Kirk on Mastodon (https://journa.host/@mcelhearn), Kirk on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/kirkville.com) Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co (https://www.photoactive.co/home/episode-199-vroom)) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) The Insane Logistics of Formula 1 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Cvu1iPpzos) Clive Mason (https://www.instagram.com/clivemasonphoto/), Getty Formula 1 Photographer William Eggleston's Guide (https://amzn.to/4pscdg0) William Eggleston: The Last Dyes (book) (https://amzn.to/4ptf1JJ) William Eggleston: The Last Dyes (exhibit info) (https://www.davidzwirner.com/exhibitions/2024/william-eggleston-the-last-dyes) Dye destruction print (https://www.tate.org.uk/art/art-terms/d/dye-destruction-print) The Last Cibachrome (https://elysee.ch/en/2025/01/the-last-cibachrome/) Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site (https://photoactive.co) to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/photoactivecast/) to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
In this episode we explore the power of deliberately stopping while you're still in the creative zone. We discuss how walking away at the right moment while editing or working on a project can preserve momentum, protect your energy, and lead to better results. With personal stories, practical strategies, and even a pizza analogy, this conversation is packed with insights to help you stay fresh and inspired in your creative process.Expect to Learn:Why ending your creative session while you're still energized can make it easier to dive back in the next dayHow deliberately setting a time limit before starting a project can keep you focused and even make unpleasant tasks more manageableHow intentionally stepping away from a project can help you catch mistakes and spark newer and better ideasHow pushing too hard for too long during a creative session can lead to lower-quality ideas Why consistency often beats intensity in creative workSponsors:Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Check out their brand-new 25-200mm F/2.8 all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount, perfect for travel and everyday shooting. Learn more at www.tamron-americas.com.Thanks also to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today's episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner's photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. The deadline to submit is December 31st 2025!Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpmOur Links:Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions:https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_USThanks for listening!Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.@sethmacey@mantis_photography@thephotographermindsetSupport the show
Join the Imagen Community on Facebook to continue the discussions between episodes.Get ready for an honest look at the art and reality of running a photography business from someone who's been thriving in the industry for nearly two decades.Sandra Åberg is an internationally acclaimed fashion, wedding, and travel photographer whose dreamy, light-filled imagery has been featured in Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Brides, and Martha Stewart. Combining her background in fashion with a passion for storytelling, she creates elegant, emotive photographs that celebrate love, beauty, and authenticity. Through her studio, Atelier Åberg, and her mentoring work, Sandra inspires others to embrace creativity and vulnerability, capturing life's most meaningful moments with artful intention.Sandra reveals her annual business planning ritual using paper and pen, opens up about why she's scaling back on weddings she personally photographs, and talks real about the anxiety tied to endless editing. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, Sandra's refreshing approach to workflow, creativity, and self-care will change how you look at the day-to-day of photography.“It's being really present. Like for me, that's what it is. Mainly it's like being super present with the people that I'm with and really 100 giving myself to the session, if that makes sense.” - Sandra ÅbergResourcesAtelier Åberg WeddingsWay Up NorthSandra's AI ProfileEpisode 12 with Mike MorbyWhy You Should ListenHear a real-world photographer's workflow, from session prep to business management.Learn how AI photo editing is transforming the post-production process.Find tips for setting boundaries and goals in your photography business.Get honest advice about anxiety, outsourcing, and balancing creativity with business.Gain inspiration to design your own ideal photography life, not just survive the busy season.Ready to level up your photography workflow, save time on editing, and discover what truly works for creative business owners? Subscribe to the Workflows podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app.(00:00) - 73 (03:38) - The Art of Being Present (09:19) - Balancing Business and Creativity (18:17) - Leveraging AI in Photography (20:32) - Streamlining Post-Production Workflow (22:48) - Overcoming Technical Challenges (27:34) - Balancing Work and Personal Life
We've got several things to discuss in this episode, from little-known settings in the iPhone Camera app, to shooting panoramas, to the Leica M EV1 and to Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein. Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website (https://jeffcarlson.com), Jeff's photos (https://jeffcarlson.com/portfolio/), Jeff on Instagram (http://instagram.com/jeffcarlson), Jeff on Glass (https://glass.photo/jeff-carlson), Jeff on Mastodon (https://twit.social/@jeffcarlson), Jeff on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/jeffcarlson.bsky.social) Kirk McElhearn: website (https://www.kirkville.com), Kirk's photos (https://photos.kirkville.com), Kirk on Instagram (https://instagram.com/mcelhearn), Kirk on Glass (https://glass.photo/mcelhearn), Kirk on Mastodon (https://journa.host/@mcelhearn), Kirk on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/kirkville.com) Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co (https://www.photoactive.co/home/episode-198-animal)) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) Leica M EV1 (https://leica-camera.com/en-US/photography/cameras/m/m-ev1-black) Leica M EV1 PetaPixel Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExvNUZfsUh0) Snapshots: Kirk & Jeff: Frankenstein (https://www.netflix.com/title/81507921) Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site (https://photoactive.co) to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/photoactivecast/) to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
Join the Imagen Community on Facebook to continue the discussions between episodes.Joshua Dwain Frith shares his journey from classic photography challenges to embracing tech solutions like AI-powered editing and workflow automation. Get the inside scoop on teaching new photographers, crafting efficient post-production pipelines, and making space for creative projects, even when life gets busy. Joshua's honest look at the ups and downs of the craft will inspire you to find joy behind the camera and make your workflow work for you.Joshua Dwain Frith is an award-winning photographer, Director, and Content Producer based in Brooklyn, NY. Specializing in wedding, editorial, portrait, and commercial photography. Based in Brooklyn, NY, Joshua enjoys documenting life, relationships, and special moments for his clients. He believes that a camera is a tool that is used to capture authentic stories and evoke long-lasting memories and emotions."I don't want people to be distracted by how the edit looks. Editing should be the thing of. You think about secondary, right? Like people, especially non photographers, they should look at the image and feel the image and then talk. And then you say, man is beautiful, and then try to figure out why it's beautiful." - Joshua Dwain FrithResourcesTrue by Joshua DwainJoshua's WorkshopsJoshua's DUMBO StudioEarring EnvyWhy You Should ListenGet actionable photography workflow improvements from a seasoned professional.Learn practical tips for automating tasks, from culling to website updates.Find relatable stories about balancing creativity with business responsibilities.Be inspired to start (or restart) personal projects that grow your photography skills.Hear how AI and tech can actually simplify, not complicate, your daily photo work.Don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at how other photographers handle the real-world challenges of creative life and business. Packed with useful tips, humor, and honest insight.(00:00) - 72 (01:30) - Behind the Camera: Challenges and Joys (04:26) - Exploring New Skills and AI Integration (10:51) - AI in Post-Production and Workflow Automation (17:24) - Evolution of Editing Style (21:04) - Struggles with Creative Shoots (23:35) - Balancing Commercial and Personal Work (28:05) - Collaborative Efforts in Photography
Join the Imagen Community on Facebook to continue the discussions between episodes.Ready for a creative jumpstart in your photography workflow? Discover why portrait photographer Meg Loeks swears by analog planning, how she carves out time for creative exploration, and the secrets behind her unique painterly images. Plus, why sometimes less is actually more.Meg Loeks is a portrait photographer based in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Inspired by motherhood, rural life, and memory, her work embraces the beauty and imperfection of domesticity, using color and nostalgia to balance tradition with individuality. A teacher and international workshop leader, she also serves as an ambassador for Imagen, Sigma, Profoto, and Lightroom, and volunteers with The Gold Hope Project, offering portraits to families facing pediatric cancer.Meg shares how her process evolved from lifestyle to intentional portraiture, reveals the surprising benefits of using a physical planner, and discusses the power of well-crafted routines. She opens up about batching, culling, editing, and how “creative play dates” keep her inspired and her photography fresh, even in the busiest seasons. Whether you're struggling to organize shoots, searching for your signature color palette, or longing for a better editing workflow, this conversation is packed with honest tips and relatable solutions.“There's something to be said about physically writing things out… It's also super satisfying to cross things off once you've accomplished something.” - Meg LoeksResourcesGolden Coil PlannersAdobe StockRadiolabMeg Loeks on Instagram @meg_nloWhy You Should ListenGet practical advice to simplify photography business organization and scheduling.Find new inspiration for client work and personal projects with creative “play day” ideas.Learn clear techniques for developing and communicating your signature style.Hear how Meg blends family life with a thriving photography business.Discover the real-life workflow tweaks that can help you save time and boost creativity, no matter your specialty.Tune in to boost your photography workflow with hands-on strategies and fresh inspiration from Meg Loeks!(00:00) - 71 (02:20) - The Importance of a Physical Planner (09:08) - Workflow and Time Management (15:48) - Creative Play and Experimentation (20:03) - Pre-Shoot Preparation Tips (21:35) - Improving Workflow Efficiency (23:11) - Composite Photography Techniques (29:14) - Embracing Color in Photography
What started with a couple of new settings related to the iPhone Camera app quickly devolves into a discussion of Apple's Liquid Glass effect in iOS 26, changes and consistency in the Camera app's interface, and whether all of this is too confusing for most people taking photos with their iPhones. Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website (https://jeffcarlson.com), Jeff's photos (https://jeffcarlson.com/portfolio/), Jeff on Instagram (http://instagram.com/jeffcarlson), Jeff on Glass (https://glass.photo/jeff-carlson), Jeff on Mastodon (https://twit.social/@jeffcarlson), Jeff on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/jeffcarlson.bsky.social) Kirk McElhearn: website (https://www.kirkville.com), Kirk's photos (https://photos.kirkville.com), Kirk on Instagram (https://instagram.com/mcelhearn), Kirk on Glass (https://glass.photo/mcelhearn), Kirk on Mastodon (https://journa.host/@mcelhearn), Kirk on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/kirkville.com) Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co (https://www.photoactive.co/home/episode-197-iphone-misc)) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) Acorn 8 (https://flyingmeat.com/acorn/) Use iPhone camera tools to set up your shot – Apple Support (https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/iph3dc593597/ios) Review: iTunes 11 adds cool features, but can be jarring to longtime users | Macworld (https://www.macworld.com/article/219864/review-itunes-11-adds-cool-features-but-can-be-jarring-to-longtime-users.html) Take Control of iPhone Photography (https://takecontrolbooks.com/iphone-photography) iPhone 17 Pro vs. Pixel 10 Pro XL: I Pitted Smartphone Royalty Against Each Other - CNET (https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/iphone-17-pro-vs-pixel-10-pro-xl-i-pitted-smartphone-royalty-against-each-other/) RICOH GR IV Monochrome High-end Compact Digital Camera Development News - Ricoh (https://us.ricoh-imaging.com/ricoh-gr-iv-monochrome-high-end-compact-digital-camera-development-news/) Snapshots: Kirk: Cory Doctorow: Enshittification (https://amzn.to/4hpnuek) Jeff: Napster View (https://www.napster.ai/) Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site (https://photoactive.co) to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/photoactivecast/) to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
Google DeepMind's new image model Nano Banana took the internet by storm.In this episode, we sit down with Principal Scientist Oliver Wang and Group Product Manager Nicole Brichtova to discuss how Nano Banana was created, why it's so viral, and the future of image and video editing. Resources: Follow Oliver on X: https://x.com/oliver_wang2Follow Nicole on X: https://x.com/nbrichtovaFollow Guido on X: https://x.com/appenzFollow Yoko on X: https://x.com/stuffyokodraws Stay Updated: If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Follow a16z on X: https://x.com/a16zSubscribe to a16z on Substack: https://a16z.substack.com/Follow a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zListen to the a16z Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bC65RDvs3oxnLyqqvkUYXListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Podcast on SpotifyListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple PodcastsFollow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Think your photos are untouchable? Think again. In this episode, we're diving headfirst into critiquing each other's work—no filters, no mercy. From egrets with questionable neck textures to waterfalls that just needed a better sky, we're breaking down the good, the meh, and the downright confusing. Along the way, we'll share stories of the emotional rollercoaster of editing, and why some photos that take zero effort still get all the love. Oh, and did we mention Richard Pond? Yeah, you'll never unsee it. Head to YouTube to see the images referenced in the episode. Expect to Learn:How personal attachment to a photo can influence your perception of its qualityWhy photos that are effortless still often resonate with audiencesPractical editing advice, like knowing when to stop tweaking before you overdo itHow to analyze photos with a critical eyeHow the context behind a photo can add depth, even if the shot isn't perfect.Sponsors:Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Check out the 18-300mm compact, all-in-one zoom lens for creators. Get sharp shots from wide landscapes to close-ups with a 16.6x zoom, fast VXD autofocus, and a 5.9" minimum focusing distance. Available for Sony E, FUJIFILM X, and now Nikon Z, and Canon RF mounts. Save for a limited time on select mounts! Explore here at www.tamron-americas.com Thanks to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today's episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner's photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpmOur Links:Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions:https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_USThanks for listening!Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.@sethmacey@mantis_photography@thephotographermindsetSupport the show
Ready to become the worst photographer ever, artistically speaking? We've got your back. In this spicy and sarcastic follow-up to our business edition, we're diving into all the ways you can fail spectacularly from a creative standpoint. We're talking about staying in your lane, shooting without a plan, and the vital importance of copying others without adding your own flair. Of course, we're actually here to help you do the exact opposite and sharpen your artistic skills.Expect to Learn:Why you should never try new things like video or drone work if you're already good at photosWhy shooting on rapid-fire with zero intent is the fastest way to better imagesHow to perfectly replicate other artists' work without the burden of developing your own unique styleThat the more effort you put into getting a shot, the better the photo is, and how angry you should get when no one else understands that.Why you should constantly compare your work to the top 0.1% of photographers online and quit when you don't measure up.Sponsors:Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Check out the 18-300mm compact, all-in-one zoom lens for creators. Get sharp shots from wide landscapes to close-ups with a 16.6x zoom, fast VXD autofocus, and a 5.9" minimum focusing distance. Available for Sony E, FUJIFILM X, and now Nikon Z, and Canon RF mounts. Save for a limited time on select mounts! Explore here at www.tamron-americas.com Thanks to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today's episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner's photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpmOur Links:Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions:https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_USThanks for listening!Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.@sethmacey@mantis_photography@thephotographermindsetSupport the show
Has camera technology plateaued? We're seeing technical advancements in image processing and autofocus, but what about the core parts like sensors? Also, we spend three hours talking about the Apple Watch Ultra 3 (not actually 3 hours). Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website (https://jeffcarlson.com), Jeff's photos (https://jeffcarlson.com/portfolio/), Jeff on Instagram (http://instagram.com/jeffcarlson), Jeff on Glass (https://glass.photo/jeff-carlson), Jeff on Mastodon (https://twit.social/@jeffcarlson), Jeff on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/jeffcarlson.bsky.social) Kirk McElhearn: website (https://www.kirkville.com), Kirk's photos (https://photos.kirkville.com), Kirk on Instagram (https://instagram.com/mcelhearn), Kirk on Glass (https://glass.photo/mcelhearn), Kirk on Mastodon (https://journa.host/@mcelhearn), Kirk on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/kirkville.com) Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co (https://www.photoactive.co/home/episode-196-plateau)) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) Snapshots: Kirk: Mission: Impossible: The Final Reckoning (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9603208/) Jeff: Freewell iPhone Pro Filmmaker Basic Kit (https://freewellgear.com/collections/smart-phone/products/iphone-pro-filmmaker-basic) Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site (https://photoactive.co) to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/photoactivecast/) to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
Join the Imagen Community on Facebook to continue the discussions between episodes.Ready to rethink your photography workflow? Whether you're passionate about crafting conceptual images or streamlining your edits, this episode of Workflows offers a fresh look at how photographers manage their files, from camera to cloud.Aaron Nace is the founder of PHLEARN - an online education platform for photographers and digital artists. Through his love of teaching, he has reached millions of people via YouTube , where you can catch weekly free videos teaching photography, retouching, compositing and more.Aaron shares his personal approach to photography, compares shooting in RAW versus JPEG, and reveals why he swears by cloud storage for his entire creative process. Discover the pros, the pitfalls, and the best practices you can implement right away to gain more time for what you love: making photos.“You capture as much information as possible as the camera can possibly capture, and then you can decide later what to do with that information.” - Aaron NaceResourcesDropboxGoogle DriveProton DriveWhy You Should ListenLearn how industry pros streamline and safeguard their photography files.Decide whether RAW or JPEG fits best into your workflow, backed by real-world experience.Get actionable strategies for storage and organization that will reduce clutter and stress.Discover how to collaborate seamlessly with remote editors or team members.Gain insight on embracing a minimalist approach for more freedom and less distraction.Subscribe to Workflows and never miss an episode packed with tips for editing, organizing, and delivering exceptional imagery with less hassle.(00:00) - Aaron Nace (01:42) - RAW vs JPEG Debate (05:55) - Black and White Photography Insights (10:44) - AI in Photo Editing (12:33) - Cloud Storage for Photographers (20:13) - Managing Local and Cloud Storage with Dropbox (20:55) - Organizing Files for Efficient Storage (22:33) - Challenges with Lightroom Catalogs (25:06) - A Minimalist Approach to Digital Storage (29:09) - Choosing the Right Cloud Storage Solution
Fifty percent of the PhotoActive podcast got a new iPhone 17 Pro, which means one of us has been testing the new cameras and can report back with first impressions. Who could it be? However, fifty percent of the podcast also got hands-on time with the other new phones, the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air. Listen to find out who got what, who's seen what, and what we think after the first weeks with Apple's new cameras... we mean phones. Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website (https://jeffcarlson.com), Jeff's photos (https://jeffcarlson.com/portfolio/), Jeff on Instagram (http://instagram.com/jeffcarlson), Jeff on Glass (https://glass.photo/jeff-carlson), Jeff on Mastodon (https://twit.social/@jeffcarlson), Jeff on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/jeffcarlson.bsky.social) Kirk McElhearn: website (https://www.kirkville.com), Kirk's photos (https://photos.kirkville.com), Kirk on Instagram (https://instagram.com/mcelhearn), Kirk on Glass (https://glass.photo/mcelhearn), Kirk on Mastodon (https://journa.host/@mcelhearn), Kirk on Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/kirkville.com) Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co (https://www.photoactive.co/home/episode-195-iphone-17)) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site (https://photoactive.co) to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you've already subscribed, you're automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts (https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/photoactive/id1391697658?mt=2) or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/photoactivecast/) to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.
Join the Imagen Community on Facebook to continue the discussions between episodes.When you run a photography studio with your partner, it can be a balancing act between creative vision, business management, and just keeping your sanity. On this episode Scott sits down with Lori and Jeff Poole to unpack how they built multiple successful photography businesses under one roof (while still being married to each other).Jeff and Lori Poole, owners of IndigoSilver Studio in Wilmington, North Carolina, specialize in boutique boudoir portraiture and wedding photography. With over 15 years of experience, they also run Photo Insight, an educational platform for photographers. Through their coaching programs, they help fellow photographers adapt to industry changes and run successful, profitable studios.Lori and Jeff share how they divided responsibilities, streamlined their processes with automation, created a welcoming studio environment (with sets they built themselves), and keep workflows moving even with a preschooler at home. From their strategies for lead generation to same-day IPS sessions, you'll discover tactics you can actually use to grow your photography business, without burning out.“We really rely on automations to save us our time. Our studio is still, 15 years later, just the two of us.” – Lori PooleResourcesMy Photo InsightFundy DesignerSocial Templates Co (episode 34)Why You Should ListenGet real, practical advice on how to run multiple photography businesses from one space.Learn automation tips that keep you shooting, even with a packed schedule or a young family at home.Discover ways to keep your business organized and your brand consistent, even as you grow.Uncover the secret to same-day editing and album sales, no more endless back and forth!Pick up unique insights into handling privacy, social media, and the ever-changing demands of photography clients.Ready to upgrade your photography workflow? Tune in to Workflows now for an honest, actionable look behind the scenes of a thriving photography business. Don't just shoot, run your studio smarter!(00:00) - 69 (01:20) - Balancing Roles in the Photography Business (05:41) - Studio Space and Workflow Management (11:24) - Automation in Lead Generation (16:42) - Personal Touch in Automated Responses (25:30) - Client Engagement and Travel Considerations (28:02) - Navigating Local Beaches and Travel Tips (30:59) - Enhancing Client Experience with Automated Emails (31:57) - Day of the Session: Hair, Makeup, and Outfits (33:59) - Capturing the Perfect Shot: Client Comfort and Preferences (36:17) - Efficient Image Processing and Same-Day Turnaround (38:59) - Streamlining Album Design and Sales (43:14) - Challenges and Improvements in Social Media Marketing
#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: Bring back the joy by using straightforward gear or even your phone, focusing less on technical perfection and more on spontaneous moments.Choose a point-and-shoot camera or a simple camera app like Huji.Go out and snap photos just for the experience, not for perfection.Make Your Work Tangible: Printing your photos or giving them as gifts can reignite your excitement and create meaningful connections.Try printing a few favorite shots at a local store or with an instant photo printer.Hand a print to a friend or family member and see how it transforms your memories into something truly special.Try New Experiments and Share the Experience: Fun comes from creative play and community. Test different techniques—like double exposures, intentional camera movement, or using vintage lenses—and connect with others to share what you've discovered.Pick one creative technique to try this week, letting go of the end result.Join a photography group, online or local, to talk about your process and learn from fellow enthusiasts.Resources:Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundleSign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Go from Confused to Confident behind the camera with The Ultimate Photography Education Bundle - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://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 COVEREDThe Emotional Challenges of Photography - Both Trevor and Raymond discuss dealing with self-doubt, comparison, and imposter syndrome—even after receiving major awards and recognition. Trevor shares how these feelings never fully go away and draws analogies (like the crayon box and oak tree roots) to explain the importance of a wide range of emotions and building community.Building a Sustainable Photography Career - Trevor reveals his transition from a finance job to full-time photography, candidly discussing the behind-the-scenes hustling, family upheaval, and the critical role of vendor relationships—especially with wedding coordinators—in growing his business. He shares time-management lessons, including the importance of setting boundaries and not falling into the “hustle trap” at the expense of personal life.Leveraging Social Media & Embracing Your Style - The conversation covers using social media as a portfolio and tool for genuine networking instead of chasing validation. Trevor offers actionable tips: celebrate others' successes, avoid perfectionism, give yourself creative challenges, and don't shy away from showing your unique style (even if it feels “weird” or niche).IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSHustle Trap: The cycle of feeling pressured to work nonstop, often leading to burnout and imbalance between work and personal life; highlighted as an unhealthy myth within creative industries.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can self-doubt be reframed as a helpful motivator rather than an obstacle in your photography journey?In what ways can building communities with other creatives or vendors support your growth and resilience?How do you manage the balance between achieving technical perfection and delivering authentic moments in your work?What unique aspects of your personality or style could you lean into more, rather than hide on social media?RESOURCES:Visit Trevor Dayley's Website - https://www.trevordayley.com/Follow Trevor Dayley on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/trevordayleyFollow Magnet Mod on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/magnetmod/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!
#589 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 COVEREDEvolving Creativity and Staying Motivated in Wedding Photography - Nick explains how shooting countless weddings can make the experience feel routine, but emphasizes the necessity of finding fresh creative approaches and engaging in personal projects for artistic fulfillment. Changing locations, experimenting with new techniques, and even switching camera systems (like using Fujifilm for personal work) can reignite passion and broaden skills.Seven Foundational Rules for Photographers - Nick outlines crucial “rules” every photographer should keep in mind. Topics include:Avoiding GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) by focusing on developing skills before investing in new equipment.Developing a critical eye, always evaluating what works in your images and areas for improvement.Not expecting post-processing to “rescue” fundamentally flawed shots.Transitioning from Hobby to Business - Nick advises beginners aspiring to start a business to focus on visible, authentic self-marketing, sharing their real passion, and building community presence. Technical prowess matters, but connecting with potential clients on a personal level is equally vital.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSGear Acquisition Syndrome (GAS): The compulsion to continually purchase new gear in hopes of improving photography, often without a concrete reason or understanding of how it will address one's actual needs. Nick stresses articulating specific problems with current gear before making a purchase.Shooting with Intention: The practice of planning or visualizing the purpose and effect of each frame—be it emotion, composition, or storytelling—instead of just “snapping” photos. This leads to more impactful and meaningful images.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can you maintain creative motivation when photographing the same event or venue repeatedly?What steps can you take to evaluate whether a new piece of gear is truly necessary for your photography?Reflect on a recent photo you took: What were you trying to communicate, and did your intention come through?RESOURCES:Visit Nick Church's Website - https://www.nickchurchcreativeacademy.com/Check out the Photographer Unleashed course! (From which the 7 Rules, comes from) - https://www.nickchurchcreativeacademy.com/photographer-unleashed-online-courseFollow Nick on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nickchurchcreativeacademy/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!
In this AI Basics episode, Jason sits down with Matt Rouif, Co-founder & CEO of Photoroom — the AI photo editing app with 300M+ downloads and 5B images processed annually.They break down:Why Photoroom built its own specialized AI modelsHow they grew from a scrappy startup to $50M+ in revenueLessons in product-led growth (from eBay sellers to DoorDash & Amazon)Red-teaming, brand safety, and building trust in AI imageryThe future of personalized ads, content, and designThis one is a masterclass for founders, operators, and builders.Timestamps:(0:00) Matt Rouif joins Jason to discuss AI Basics.(0:45) Meet Matt Rouif: Photoroom's $50M+ AI photo startup(3:15) Live demo: background removal + virtual try-on(7:40) From indie sellers to DoorDash & Amazon(12:20) The “Barbie Movie” API moment(17:05) Red-teaming AI: trust, safety & brand protection(22:10) Running a 100-person AI startup(26:30) The future of personalized ads (put you in the ad?)Explore Further:Google Cloud's Report: The Future of AIGet insights from 23 leading experts on how startups can leverage AI for real business impact.
#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 COVEREDStarting a Photography Side Hustle & Workflow Automation - Raymond shares his early struggles balancing a day job with building a portrait and wedding photography business. He highlights the time-saving power of using tools like CloudSpot Studio for automating bookings, contracts, invoicing, and client communication. Key takeaway: automation prevents lost opportunities and allows photographers with limited time to provide a seamless client experience.Editing Style Evolution & Managing Creative Ruts - Addressing questions about losing confidence in editing style, Raymond emphasizes that evolving tastes are normal and even healthy. He encourages experimenting with new edits and using past work to develop a style that feels authentic. Takeaway: feedback is useful, but personal satisfaction with your work is crucial for creative fulfillment.Equipment Choices for Travel, Studio, & Technical Mastery - Through specific gear-related questions, Raymond discusses how to weigh camera options for travel and studio documentation, advocating for a minimalist approach while tailoring choices to the context and desired output. He also offers a deep dive into understanding depth of field and autofocus, demystifying how they interact to produce sharp images. Takeaway: deliberate gear selection and technical competence empower photographers to adapt to any shooting situation.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSDepth of Field (DoF): The range within a photo that appears acceptably sharp, determined by a combination of aperture, focal length, and subject distance. Raymond explains how understanding DoF helps photographers achieve their desired focus in different scenarios, especially when combined with autofocus settings.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow might automating your business workflow free up time for more creative pursuits? What steps can you start implementing now?Have you recently felt dissatisfied with your editing style or creative output? What strategies could help you refresh your perspective?When preparing for a travel or studio shoot, how do you decide what gear is essential versus what might be excess baggage?In what ways has understanding (or misunderstanding) depth of field affected your photography?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!