In this episode of the Perceptive Photographer podcast, I kick off 2025 diving into the topic of photography critique. After a quick update and thanks to everyone for their support as I dealt with my medical issues, I wanted to dig into how photographers can approach feedback. Instead of just answering questions about their work, I suggest flipping those questions to gain deeper insights. This filp will allow you to emphasize the importance of considering the background and context in images to enhance storytelling.

Gear used in the podcast

Rode Boom Arm
Rode PSM Shockmount
Rode Podcast Mic
Focusrite Scarlet 2i2
Adobe Audition (part of creative cloud subscription)
Macbook Pro
OWC Thunderbolt 3 dock
Headphones

Happy New Year everyone. In this episode, I share a bit about my recent experiences with health issues that have affected my energy and productivity, which have also led to a brief hiatus from work. So thanks to everyone for reaching out and much gratitude for your support As we approach 2025, I cheated and recorded a podcast when I am supposed to be off work, and I wanted to share five wishes for my audience: fostering a deeper connection to their work, focusing on the positive aspects of their photography, accepting praise, managing their inner critic, and setting and completing personal projects. Overall, the episode aims to act as a motivator for you to reflect on their work and personal growth as you enter the new year.

Gear used in the podcast

Rode Boom Arm
Rode PSM Shockmount
Rode Podcast Mic
Focusrite Scarlet 2i2
Adobe Audition (part of creative cloud subscription)
Macbook Pro
OWC Thunderbolt 3 dock
Headphones

In this episode of the Perceptive Photographer podcast, we are going to dig a little deeper into the visual language of photography. Before we jump into our topic, I did want to let you know if the energy is a little off it is due to some recent struggles with medication and anxiety, which are hopefully getting resolved.

As we jump into our topic, there is a connection between how understanding visual elements—similar to nouns, verbs, and adjectives in language—can enhance our photographic work. Over the course of the episode I hope you get more interested in reading and analyzing your images through this framework. From it you might be surprised how much better you can articulate intentions and emotions in the image. I also hope you have a wonderful and joyful holiday season.

Gear used in the podcast

Rode Boom Arm
Rode PSM Shockmount
Rode Podcast Mic
Focusrite Scarlet 2i2
Adobe Audition (part of creative cloud subscription)
Macbook Pro
OWC Thunderbolt 3 dock
Headphones

In this episode of the Perceptive Photographer Podcast, I dig into the topic of distractions in photography, focusing on not just the technology of AI generative tools that remove unwanted elements from images, but how we think about distractions in our work. These new tools have impressive capabilities and their potential impact on a photographer’s approach to composition can’t be easily dismissed. Yet, the philosophical and ethical considerations of manipulating photographs always seems to boil back up to the surface. So in this episode, I digress into how we think about a distraction when we notice a distraction and the importance of being present during the photographic process.

Gear used in the podcast

Rode Boom Arm
Rode PSM Shockmount
Rode Podcast Mic
Focusrite Scarlet 2i2
Adobe Audition (part of creative cloud subscription)
Macbook Pro
OWC Thunderbolt 3 dock
Headphones

In this episode of the Perceptive Photographer podcast, I tackle two listener questions. First, I dive into the role of language in photography, discussing how articulating thoughts about my work can deepen personal connection and understanding. While some argue that photos should speak for themselves, I believe language can enhance this visual storytelling. Then, I respond to Christine, a long-time listener, about adaptability in photography, sharing my experiences with dysgraphia and dyslexia. I emphasize embracing personal challenges and adapting creatively, turning potential obstacles into strengths in one’s photographic journey.

Gear used in the podcast

Rode Boom Arm
Rode PSM Shockmount
Rode Podcast Mic
Focusrite Scarlet 2i2
Adobe Audition (part of creative cloud subscription)
Macbook Pro
OWC Thunderbolt 3 dock
Headphones

Hey there, fellow photography enthusiasts! Welcome to another episode of “The Perceptive Photographer”. We’re diving into episode 508, which coincides with the hustle and bustle of Cyber Monday. While the world around us is caught up in the frenzy of consumerism, I want to offer you something else to focus your attention on over spending some cash on something you don’t need.

I have five exercises for you to try out to keep your creativity going this season.

Exercise 1: Finding Interest in the Mundane

Let’s kick things off with a quote from the legendary photographer Jay Maisel: “If you want to take more interesting photographs, be a more interesting person.” This exercise is all about transforming the mundane into something interesting.

How to Approach It:
Identify a Boring Subject: Choose something you typically find uninteresting—a person, place, or object, and make it interesting .Focus on what you see not on what it is.

Exercise 2: Exploring Texture

Next up, let’s delve into the world of texture. This exercise is all about making texture the star of your photograph.

How to Approach It:
Choose a Textured Subject and capture the Duality: Think about what the texture reveals and what it conceals.

Exercise 3: The 180-Degree Turn

For our third exercise, let’s explore the concept of “In the Round.” This exercise encourages you to be aware of your surroundings and discover new subjects by simply turning around.

How to Approach It:

Start by capturing your initial subject. Make a 180-Degree Turn: Turn around and photograph what’s behind you.

Exercise 4: Story Within a Story

Now, let’s dive into the compositional technique of “frame within a frame.” This exercise challenges you to create photographs that tell multiple stories simultaneously.

How to Approach It:
Ensure that the elements within the frame work together to convey more than one narrative. Layer Your Stories: Think about how different elements interact and contribute to the overall story.

Exercise 5: The Closing Click

Finally, let’s explore the “Closing Click” exercise. This exercise encourages you to rely on your other senses to determine the right moment to click the shutter.

How to Approach It:
Set Up Your Shot: Compose your image and get everything ready. Close Your Eyes: Once you’re ready, close your eyes and focus on your other senses.
Feel the Moment**: Tune into the sounds, the wind, the warmth of the sun, and click the shutter when it feels right.

I hope these exercises inspire you to have a week filled with meaningful moments behind the camera. Don’t forget to subscribe for future episodes, and happy shooting!

Until next time, keep seeing the world through your unique lens.

Gear used in the podcast

Rode Boom Arm
Rode PSM Shockmount
Rode Podcast Mic
Focusrite Scarlet 2i2
Adobe Audition (part of creative cloud subscription)
Macbook Pro
OWC Thunderbolt 3 dock
Headphones

In this episode of “The Perceptive Photographer,” I dive into the theme of balance in both life and photography. I kick things off with a quote from Ani DiFranco about striving for balance over perfection and dive into an expeirence many years ago in a yoga class, where I noticed how balance—or the lack of it—can reflect broader life. Over the past week I have been thinking about how those relate to photography, suggesting that our emotional and mental states influence our creative work. I encourage you to think about your own sense of balance and how it impacts your photography, aiming for more authentic and meaningful images.

Gear used in the podcast

Rode Boom Arm
Rode PSM Shockmount
Rode Podcast Mic
Focusrite Scarlet 2i2
Adobe Audition (part of creative cloud subscription)
Macbook Pro
OWC Thunderbolt 3 dock
Headphones

In this episode of the Perceptive Photographer podcast, I spend some time reflecting on the passing of the influential photographer Paul Caponigro. I really admired Paul and got to meet him several time and so I wanted to shared a few personal stories about Paul, including some lessons and anecdotes on his approach to photography. I also wanted to touch on the current tension and anxiety so many are feeling and talk about how photography can be a therapeutic outlet during tough times. I hope you are feeling a little off, or a lot, that you use your cameras to process those emotions and find solace, remembering that creating art can help navigate feelings of grief and uncertainty.

Gear used in the podcast

Rode Boom Arm
Rode PSM Shockmount
Rode Podcast Mic
Focusrite Scarlet 2i2
Adobe Audition (part of creative cloud subscription)
Macbook Pro
OWC Thunderbolt 3 dock
Headphones

In this episode of my podcast, the Perceptive Photographer, I dive into the concept of “layers” in photography, drawing inspiration from the movie “Shrek.” You know how Shrek says ogres have layers? Well, I believe photographs do too, with multiple layers of meaning. I chat about how elements like composition, emotions, and even political implications can add depth to an image. I encourage you to think about your own layers as photographers and how your personal experiences shape your work.

In an upcoming episode, I’ll share some photography book recommendations for holiday gifts.

Don’t forget that I got a bunch of upcoming workshops, including the Photoshop Virtual Summit and my own sessions on inspiration and printing.

Also, don’t forget to check out the upcoming workshops if you want to deepen your understanding and skills in your work.

Gear used in the podcast

Rode Boom Arm
Rode PSM Shockmount
Rode Podcast Mic
Focusrite Scarlet 2i2
Adobe Audition (part of creative cloud subscription)
Macbook Pro
OWC Thunderbolt 3 dock
Headphones

In this episode of the Perceptive Photographer Podcast, I dive into the importance of working the balance between simplicity and complexity in our photography. It all started with me finally starting to learn how we see complexity in a scene and how distilling them to their core improved my work. This simplification isn’t about minimalism but about focusing on the core elements. I

Don’t forget that I got a bunch of upcoming workshops, including the Photoshop Virtual Summit and my own sessions on inspiration and printing.

Also, don’t forget to check out the upcoming workshops if you want to deepen your understanding and skills in your work.

Gear used in the podcast

Rode Boom Arm
Rode PSM Shockmount
Rode Podcast Mic
Focusrite Scarlet 2i2
Adobe Audition (part of creative cloud subscription)
Macbook Pro
OWC Thunderbolt 3 dock
Headphones

In this episode of the Perceptive Photographer podcast, I dig into how we go about dealing with mistakes and unexpected outcomes in our creative process.