In The MOOD Podcast, Matt Jacob, renowned cultural portrait photographer, dives deep into the world of photography and the visual arts, with guests from all aro...
Is Identity an Illusion? A Conversation with Photographer Benjamin Rasmussen, EO79
What does it truly mean to belong, and how do our stories shape the connections we make?Benjamin Rasmussen is an acclaimed photographer whose work explores themes of identity, belonging, and societal narratives. With roots in the Faroe Islands, the Philippines, and the United States, Benjamin’s multicultural upbringing profoundly influences his storytelling. As well as his work being featured in publications such as The New Yorker, Time, and The Atlantic, Benjamin is also the author of the photo book 'The Good Citizen'. Highlights of our conversation:The connection between personal heritage and storytelling.Navigating the complexities of identity and belonging in photography.The balance between aesthetics and ethics.Challenging stereotypes and finding universal connections.The nuanced art of photographing power and privilege. The significance of compelling narratives in shaping perceptions.Insights into Benjamin's book, "The Good Citizen".Strategies for community engagement and distribution of photographic work.Find Benjamin Rasmussen's work on his channels:Website: www.benjaminrasmussenphoto.comInstagram: @benjaminrasReferenced book in the conversation:'The Good Citizen'https://benjaminrasmussenphoto.com/The-Good-Citizen____________________________________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
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1:42:31
Blurring the Boundaries: Doron Gild, EO78
"Photography is an art form that requires intention, creation, and a willingness to make photos, not just take photos."Doron Gild is a photographer whose work blurs the boundaries between fine art and commercial photography. Known for his ability to create visually striking and emotionally resonant portraits, Doron’s images tell layered stories that reflect the individuality of his subjects. From editorial portraiture to high-concept family shoots, his work embodies a unique mix of precision, creativity, and authenticity.Our conversation covered:Transitioning from 'taking” to “making' photographs. The psychology of portraiture.The concept of 'portraits within portraits'.Balancing artistic integrity with commercial demands.Candid experiences working with Bon Jovi and other celebrities. The meticulous process behind his shoots. Navigating the impact of AI. The importance of personal connections. Embracing challenges and perseverance. Find Doron Gild's work on her channels:Website: www.dorongild.comInstagram: @dorongildphotography_____________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
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Seeing the Unseen: Dr Lauren Walsh, EO77
What's the emotional cost of documenting humanity's darkest moments?Dr. Lauren Walsh is a professor, author, and thought-leader in the realms of photojournalism and visual storytelling, and in this episode she reveals the profound responsibilities photojournalists carry in documenting conflict and crises while addressing the ethical dilemmas they face. We also talk about mental health challenges among photographers and the important role images play in shaping public discourse and promoting healing. Key Topics Discussed:Dr. Walsh's background in literature and photojournalism.Photojournalism in today’s fast-changing media landscape.Ethical dilemmas in photographing conflict and human suffering.Mental health challenges in hostile environments.Technology, including AI, and the impact on visual storytelling.Photography's role in documenting justice, history, and reconciliation.Advice for aspiring photojournalists to navigate the challenges of the profession.The need for critical media literacy among audiences.Insights on the future of photojournalism and the necessity for responsible documentation.Find Dr Lauren Walsh's work on her channels:Website: www.laurenwalsh.comInstagram: @lwalsh242Referenced book in the conversation:'We Cry in Silence'https://www.smitasharma.com/book/book-we-cry-in-silence______________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
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Against all Odds: Rick Smolan, EO76
What's the secret to finding humanity in the most unexpected places?Rick Smolan is a world-renowned photographer and CEO of Against All Odds Productions. Creator of the groundbreaking Day in the Life series, his illustrious career in photography showcases the transformative power of storytelling through imagery.Rick has spent decades pushing boundaries with his work, which has spanned continents, best-seller lists, and media outlets, focusing on raising awareness about critical global issues, from the human face of big data to social justice movements.Highlights of our conversation:Discussing the Day in the Life series and its impact.Navigating the ethical dilemmas in photojournalism.Exploring the intersection of technology and storytelling.The evolving role of photography and the challenges photographers face today.Why personal storytelling and authenticity remain key to standing out as a creative.The secrets to pitching projects to CEOs and securing support from major corporations.Navigating the rise of AI, misinformation, and the enduring value of authentic photography.Find Rick's work on his channels:Website: www.againstallodds.comInstagram: @ricksmolanThreads: @ricksmolan_________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
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1:27:15
Capturing Cultures, Healing Minds: Sebastian Belaustegui, EO75
What does it mean to preserve a culture through photography in a world that is constantly changing? Sebastián Belaustegui, widely known as 'Suki', is a cultural photographer whose work spans over 3 decades, documenting the stories, traditions, and rituals of indigenous communities across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Through his portraits and projects like Guardians of Time, Suki has preserved cultural heritage while fostering empathy and understanding. His personal journey through profound mental health challenges has further shaped his life and work, inspiring resilience and authenticity in his art.Highlights of my conversation with him:Experiences with severe mental health struggles, including anxiety, depression, and recoveries from it.The ethics of documenting indigenous communities and how to approach subjects with respect.How to use photography to elevate the voices of underrepresented cultures and educate others.The balance between raising awareness of indigenous populations and protecting them from overexposure.Why the experience of creating a photograph is often more meaningful than the final image.Teaching mindfulness, respect, and ethics in photography.Building relationships with subjects before taking photographs.Advice for photographers on slowing down, observing, and embracing the process over competition.Find Suki's work on his channels:Website: www.sebastian-suki-belaustegui.comInstagram: @photosookyThank you to Luminar Neo for sponsoring this episode - get 25% discount on all their products here using the code MOODPODCAST25.__________________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
In The MOOD Podcast, Matt Jacob, renowned cultural portrait photographer, dives deep into the world of photography and the visual arts, with guests from all around the creative industry, across all parts of the globe, sharing inspiring stories and experiences that will leave you wanting more. With years of experience and a passion for storytelling, Matt has become a master of capturing lesser-told human stories through his photography, and teams up with other special artists from around the world to showcase insights, experiences and opinions within the diverse and sometimes controversial photography world. You can watch these podcasts on his Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay.You can also follow Matt's work on his Instagram @mattyj_ay and his website: https://mattjacobphotography.com.
Australia