The Beginner Photography Podcast

• Better Photos Start With This One Thing: Fun

  #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!

  --------  

  43:44

  --------

  43:44
• The Value of Hands on Learning In Person with Cris Duncan

  #591 Cris Duncan is an experienced studio owner from Lubbock, Texas, well-known for his expertise in lighting and in-person photography education. The conversation dives into the transformative value of hands-on, in-person learning experiences for photographers at all stages, shining a spotlight on Cris’ role with the Texas School of Professional Photography—a weeklong, immersive event designed to provide deep dives into specific areas of photography, rather than the surface-level "popcorn" approach of larger conferences.KEY TOPICS COVEREDIn-Person Education vs. Online Learning - Cris highlights the unique advantages of in-person workshops (like Texas School) over online resources. While online tools are valuable for information, in-person learning provides real-time feedback, hands-on practice, and the chance to safely make and correct mistakes.Structure and Tracks at Texas School of Professional Photography - Texas School offers deep-dives in four main tracks—digital post-production, successful studio/business growth, lighting and camera skills, and specialty/technique. Students select a single class for the week, fostering mastery and focused learning.Building Community and Lifelong Learning - Success is fueled by connecting with others, sharing experiences, and forming lasting friendships. Community learning fosters motivation, accountability, and creative problem-solving. Cris describes students returning year after year, advancing in their journeys, and forming strong professional networks.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSConcierge Family Portrait Experience: A premium, tailored photography service that guides clients in everything from wardrobe choices to matching artwork with home décor, ensuring the final portrait complements the client’s personality and environment.Texas School of Professional Photography: A weeklong educational event near Dallas, Texas, offering immersive, instructor-led classes to help photographers build foundational and advanced skills in a collaborative, hands-on environment.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSIn what ways does hands-on, in-person instruction help you understand and retain new photography skills better than online learning?How might joining a creative community or peer group accelerate your own photography journey?What skills or business goals would you most want to “deep-dive” into if given a week-long immersive class?Reflect on a time you learned best by failing—and how feedback helped you improve.RESOURCES:Visit Texas School’s Website - https://texasschool.org/Follow Cris Duncan on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cjduncanSign 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!

  --------  

  44:57

  --------

  44:57
• Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Wedding Photography with Trevor Dayley

  #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! 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!

  --------  

  56:29

  --------

  56:29
• The 7 Rules Every Photographer Needs with Nick Church

  #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.instagraSign 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!

  --------  

  54:12

  --------

  54:12
• The $400 Repair That’s Worth More Than a New Camera

  #588 In this episode of the podcast, I share a personal, behind-the-scenes look at what’s been happening in my photographic life, focusing on one of the most common dilemmas photographers face: Should you repair a broken camera or upgrade to a newer model? After my Fujifilm X Pro 2 suddenly died while on a shoot, I walk listeners through the emotional and practical decision to spend $400 on repairs rather than buying a new camera. I talk candidly about why this choice isn’t just about saving money—it’s about honoring the sentimental attachment to a workhorse camera and making smart, needs-based decisions rather than getting distracted by shiny new gear.KEY TOPICS COVERED Repairing vs. Upgrading Your Camera - Raymond breaks down when it makes sense to repair a camera versus upgrading, suggesting repairs are usually worth it if they cost less than 30–40% of a new camera’s price, especially when the current camera still meets your needs. He also touches on the sentimental value attached to long-serving equipment.The Role and Impact of Upgrading Gear - He examines whether new features truly benefit your workflow or if upgrades are driven by boredom or “shiny object syndrome.” Real improvements, he argues, should address specific workflow issues or unlock new creative possibilities.Creative Inspiration and Intentional Projects - Raymond describes how long-term, theme-driven personal projects—like documenting the Indiana State Fair—offer structure and cultivate deeper creativity. He shares techniques for using constraints to generate focus and learning.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSRepair/Upgrade Threshold: The decision guiding whether to repair gear based on whether costs are less than 30–40% of replacement value, contextualized in terms of need, features, and sentimental value.Creative Constraints: Deliberately limiting yourself to a theme, technique, or subject to focus your creative energy, avoid overwhelm, and produce more meaningful work.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSWhat has influenced your past decisions to repair or upgrade camera gear? How did those choices affect your creativity and output?How can creative constraints or themed projects deepen your photography and help you grow as an artist?In your own workflow, are there features you genuinely need in new gear, or are you tempted by upgrades for other reasons?How does stepping away from work to seek inspiration impact your creative process?Sign 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!

  --------  

  40:56

  --------

  40:56

More Arts podcasts

Trending Arts podcasts

About The Beginner Photography Podcast

The Beginner Photography Podcast: Podcasts in Family