#278: How to Take Great Photos: The Do’s, Don’ts & Tips – Bambi Cash & Blake Carver

[36:06] Ever wish you could retake that one photo—the one where someone blinked, the lighting was off, or the moment passed before you were ready? In this photo-themed episode, Toastmasters International’s visual media pros Bambi Cash and Blake Carver, the creative forces behind the stunning images and videos that define the organization’s brand share behind-the-scenes insights from global events and offer practical tips to help everyone—from club PR officers to smartphone selfie-takers—capture better, more intentional photos. Whether you're photographing a keynote speaker, a club meeting, or a group selfie, you’ll come away with helpful dos and don’ts, creative ideas, and a fresh perspective on storytelling through photography.You’ll get to know Bambi Cash, Toastmasters International’s graphic designer and lead event photographer, and Blake Carver, senior video production specialist and director of the organization’s 100th-anniversary documentary. Together, they bring decades of experience to the conversation and a shared passion for storytelling through visual media.They explain why taking a good photo isn’t just about expensive equipment—it’s about being intentional. You'll also learn key concepts help avoid backlighting disasters, and how to use everyday items (even hands!) to frame your shot creatively.You'll get expert advice on:Capturing movement in still images without cultural misstepsStaging great award shots without blocking the viewMastering group selfies using the “outside arm” trickAvoiding closed eyes with their surprising but genius “eyes shut, then open” methodUsing focus and exposure lock on smartphones for better lighting controlCreating impactful, emotion-filled photos that draw people inBambi and Blake also discuss the planning process behind convention photography, including how they craft a shot list in advance and always aim to shoot from the member’s perspective.Some of our discussion and more can be found in their article, How to Take Great Photos: The Do’s and Don’ts for Making Your Pictures the Best They Can Be, featured in the June 2025 issue of Toastmaster magazine. The article includes visual examples and real-world tips for Toastmasters looking to boost their club’s public image.About the GuestsBambi Cash is the graphic designer and lead photographer at Toastmasters International. She’s the creative mind behind many of the visual elements seen in Toastmaster magazine and at the International Convention. Bambi holds a degree from the University of Northern Colorado and has a background in wedding and portrait photography.Blake Carver is the senior video production specialist at Toastmasters International, responsible for directing, filming, and editing all of the organization’s video content. With a background in audio engineering and nearly two decades of experience, Blake recently produced and narrated Toastmasters’ official 100-year anniversary documentary.Together, they are a dynamic duo who collaborate on everything from presidential portraits to multimedia campaigns—and they’re passionate about helping you take better photos.Coming Soon: Bonus MaterialComing soon you'll be able to hear host Greg Gazin on the hot seat where Bambi and Blake give Greg feedback on a series of pictures Greg took just the previous day in Drumheller, Alberta Canada, a unique town situated in the heart of the Canadian Badlands and dinosaur capital of the world.