The Beginner Photography Podcast
by Raymond Hatfield
The Beginner Photography Podcast is a free weekly podcast hosted by professional photographer Raymond Hatfield who interviews world class photographers of all genres who share what they wish they knew when they got started so you can grow your creative photography skills faster! The podcast is brought to you by CloudSpot.io, the client gallery system that is always #EmpoweringPhotographers
Episodes
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Time To Say Goodbye.
View All The Photos From Todays Photo Walk - https://beginnerphotopod.com/finalphotowalk #596 In today’s episode, Raymond Hatfield shares why letting go of the Beginner Photography Podcast is the decision that could recharge your creativity and rekindle your passion for shooting. If you’re…
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Recipe for Perfect Photos: Mastering Manual Mode Made
#595 In today’s episode of the podcast I share a simple, recipe-inspired approach to mastering manual camera settings. You’ll understand ISO, aperture, and shutter speed from a fresh, food-themed perspective, so you can finally create photos with confidence, not confusion. Ultimate Photography...
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Light Made Simple: 4 Secrets to Instantly Improve Your Photos
#594 In this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, we explore the fundamental role that light plays in photography. Enroll in the Ultimate Photography Education Bundle Today - https://beginnerphotopod.com/bundle The learning objectives are clear: listeners should be able to identify and...
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Photo Q&A: How to Avoid Wasting Money on Camera Gear
#593 In this month’s Q&A episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, we answer questions that span both technical and philosophical aspects of photography. The conversation centers around real-world challenges for beginners – such as gear selection, repair decisions, getting comfortable with...
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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...
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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…
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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....
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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...
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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...
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What Baseball Taught Me About Photography
#587 In this episode of the podcast, I dig into what baseball has taught me about becoming a better photographer. At first glance, these two worlds might seem unrelated, but I quickly realized that the secret to growth in both comes down to the quiet, persistent practice—those thousands of unseen...
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Photo Q&A: How To Juggle a Day Job and Photography with Automation
#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…
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How to Pack Light and Shoot Smart for Travel Photography with Mark Hemmings
#585 Mark Hemmings is an internationally recognized travel photographer and educator. Mark shares his inspiring journey, beginning with his early days in Canada when he first discovered photography while traveling in Japan. He walks listeners through the evolution of his career—from working in…
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You Don’t Have to Fix Your Photos. They’re Not Broken.
#584 In this episode of the podcast, I explore the idea that your photos are not broken just because they aren’t technically perfect or heavily edited. I share my own experiences as a photographer, reflecting on how the rise of digital editing and AI has made many of us feel like every photo…
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Inside the Creative Process of Making Photo Series with Dina Goldstein
#583 Dina Goldstein is an acclaimed photographer and visual artist known for her provocative, narrative-driven imagery and a career spanning over 30 years. Dina shares her unconventional journey into photography—from her early fascination with how she saw the world, to a pivotal trip in her 20s...
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Comparison is Killing Your Photography
#582 In this episode of the podcast, I take a deep dive into how comparison can seriously derail your progress and enjoyment as a photographer. Inspired by my own experiences learning new skills—like learning to juggle and nurturing my lawn—I share how easy it is to fall into the trap of…
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Honoring the Human Touch in a World of AI Photography with Shane Balkowitsch
#581 Shane Balkowitsch is a dedicated wet plate collodion photographer whose passion for history, authenticity, and the human experience shapes both his artwork and his views on the future of photography. In this episode, Shane shares the journey that led him from having no experience with a…
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Photo Q&A: Why Do My Photos Look Different on My Camera vs. Lightroom?
#580 In Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I tackle listener-submitted questions for our monthly Photo Q&A session. We cover a variety of challenges that many beginner photographers run into—from understanding the difference between RAW and JPEG files, managing noise in corporate...
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Gaining Access and Experience in Concert Photography with Zenia Monteagudo
#579 Zenia Monteagudo is an experienced music and event photographer who has recently begun exploring family portraiture. Zenia shares her personalized journey into photography, starting from her early fascination with disposable and point-and-shoot cameras to a pivotal moment when she purchased…
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Do You Have Gear Lust Or Photo Love
#578 In this episode of the podcast, I deliver a thoughtful exploration into the emotional and psychological aspects that underlie the pursuit of photography. I dissect the difference between being infatuated with photography—often characterized by a focus on gear, novelty, and aesthetics...
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From Trading Airbnb Stays to Shooting Pro Sports with Shane Wilkie
#577 Shane Wilkie is a community member who has made impressive strides in sports, event, and commercial photography since his last appearance. The discussion centers around building confidence as a photographer, the evolution of photographic style, and how personal projects can drive both skill...
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Lessons for Surviving Your First Year of Full-Time Photography with Taylor Isselhard
#576 Taylor Isselhard is a full-time wedding photographer and the host of the Wedding Lens Lounge podcast. As a professional who successfully transitioned from part-time to full-time photography, Taylor offers an in-depth perspective on the critical steps required for building a sustainable...
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What Makes a Strong Photography Brand with Sandra Coan
#575 Sandra Coan is a seasoned film photographer from Seattle with two decades of experience in newborn, family, and classic portraiture. Sandra shares her inspiring journey—how she turned a creative passion into a thriving business, the challenges of building a successful brand, and the…
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Photographers Hate to Admit This… But It’s True
#574 In this episode of the podcast, I got brutally honest about an uncomfortable truth many photographers—myself included—often avoid: believing new gear will instantly make us better photographers. I dove into why so many of us, at some point, fixate on the idea that lack of equipment stands...
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How Community Support Fuels Photographic Success with Jim Sinicki
#573 Jim Sinicki is a longtime and active member of the podcast’s Facebook group. The episode explores Jim’s personal photography journey, beginning with what initially inspired him and carrying through his transition from enthusiast to business owner and creative community contributor. Listeners...
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Your Most Photographed Summer Ever
#572 In this episode of the podcast, I talk about what it really means to capture summer memories as a beginner photographer. As a parent with two kids on summer break, I know how chaotic this season can get—plans change, weather interrupts, and sometimes my camera is nowhere near when moments...
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Building Confidence in Street Photography with Valerie Jardin
#571 Valerie Jardin is a renowned street photographer, educator, and host of the Hit the Streets podcast, celebrated for her candid approach to capturing everyday moments. She recounts how her early influences growing up in France and her father's passion for wildlife photography shaped her...
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Photo Q&A: Is It Too Late to Break Into Wedding Photography at 38?
#570 In Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I tackle a wide range of listener questions covering every stage of the photography journey. I respond directly to your real-world concerns, offering practical advice and personal insights on topics like preparing for photography trips,...
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Unlocking Emotional Depth Through Photography with Sean Kim
#569 Sean Kim is a passionate photographer whose journey explores the ways photography can help process emotions and discover meaning in life. Originally from South Korea and now living in the U.S., Sean transitioned from running a family business to finding profound purpose and self-expression...
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From Creative Burnout to Capturing the Joy of Work with Brian Doben
#568 Brian Doben is a celebrated commercial photographer whose journey into the craft was driven by pure instinct and a love for observing life—what he calls the “greatest romance” of his life aside from his marriage. Key themes throughout the episode include Brian’s unexpected entry into...
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How Thoughtful Details Win Photography Clients for Life with Allie Siarto
#567 Allie Siarto is a wedding and lifestyle photographer based in East Lansing, Michigan, and host of the Photo Field Notes podcast. The episode is a deep dive into the importance of creating a world-class experience for portrait clients, a factor Allie emphasizes as crucial for building client...
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The Mirror and the Megaphone: How Photography Reveals Who You Truly Are
#566 In this episode of the podcast, I explore how photography can be a powerful tool for self-discovery—not just a way to create beautiful images or chase technical perfection. I share my belief that the most meaningful photos aren’t always the ones that earn the most likes or comments. Instead,...
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Capturing the Action at the Indy 500 with Chris Owens
#565 Chris Owens is the Director of Photo Operations for IndyCar, and in this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, he shares what it’s really like to photograph the iconic Indianapolis 500. From his first experiences with disposable cameras as a child to leading a team of photographers at...
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The Moment Isn't Everything in Photography
#564 In this episode of the podcast, I dive deep into the idea that while capturing the right moment in photography matters most, it’s not everything. I share my own experiences as a photographer, especially those early days when I felt overwhelmed by all the camera settings—aperture, shutter...
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Growing as a Beginner through Photo Challenges with Kimberly Irish
#563 Kimberly Irish is a community member and moderator of the Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook group. Kim, based in Wisconsin, shares her journey from picking up a camera out of necessity to document her family’s life, to becoming a sought-after photographer who now primarily shoots…
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Photo Q&A: How Do You Keep Kids Smiling and Still During a Photo Shoot?
#562 In Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I dive into your most pressing photo questions. I take listener-submitted questions and share advice, stories, and practical strategies based on my own experiences as a photographer. Whether you’re wrestling with when to put a signature or...
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How to Practice Photography and Community Accelerated Growth with John Kenny
#561 John Kenny is a dedicated photographer based in rural England who shares his journey from picking up a camera for a family trip to building a portrait and headshot business. The conversation highlights John’s transition from landscape to portrait and headshot photography, underlining the...
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Highlights from The Beginner Photography Podcast Workshop
#560 In this special “Workshop Episode” of the podcast, I, Raymond Hatfield, share my thoughts and experiences fresh off hosting our very first in-person workshop in Chicago. After nine years of connecting with listeners online, I finally brought together members of our community for a full day...
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5 Photo Assignments to Kickstart Your Creativity This Weekend
#558 In this episode of the podcast, I wanted to shake things up by sharing five practical photo assignments that can help you build your skills no matter where you are in your photography journey. My goal was to get you out of passive learning mode and encourage you to actually take…
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How Self-Education Turned an Amateur into a Pro Sports Photographer with Matt Austin
#557 Matt Austin is a dedicated sports photographer whose journey from a novice to a professional has been nothing short of inspiring. Matt’s life transformed dramatically as he went from using a basic camera to shooting high-profile sports events. Initially motivated by watching a Twitch stream…
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From Family Snapshots to Captivating Photography with Mario Martinez
#556 Mario Martinez is a dedicated photographer driven by the desire to capture genuine memories for his family. Mario shares his journey from an amateur photographer, motivated by a disappointing family photo experience, to a passionate pursuer of capturing genuine moments. The episode primarily...
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Embracing Precision and Collaboration in Dance Photography with Emily Brunner
#555 Emily Brunner is a performance dance photographer from Philadelphia. The discussion focuses on Emily's journey from capturing casual photos of her children to specializing in dance photography. Key themes include transitioning into a photography niche, understanding the technical and…
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Proven Marketing Strategies for New Photographers with Jeff Poole
#554 Jeff Poole is a professional photographer who transitioned from a career as a paramedic to running a highly successful photography business. Jeff recounts how photography became pivotal in his life following the birth of his first child and the supportive push from family that set him on a...
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Crafting Impactful Narratives Through Long-Term Projects with Dan Milnor
#553 Dan Milnor is a seasoned photographer with over 25 years of experience. His career began with an unexpected twist when a lost transcript led him to a community college with a renowned journalism program. Milnor narrates his early experiences as a photojournalist, detailing the...
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The 6 Photography Mindset Shifts Every Beginner Needs to Hear
#552 In this episode of the podcast, I share the core principles that shape both my personal photography journey and the mission of the podcast. Recognizing that photography can feel overwhelming for newcomers, I focus on shifting the mindset from technical skills to capturing meaningful moments....
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School Teacher by Day Aspiring Photographer by Night with Elizabeth DeVoe
#551 Elizabeth DeVoe is a first-grade teacher in Atlanta who recently embarked on her photography journey. The discussion navigates Elizabeth's early experiences and the unexpected spark that ignited her passion for photography. Elizabeth shares her beginnings with a Canon Rebel XS, a journey…
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Photo Q&A: How Do You Set the Right Price for Your Photo Prints?
#550 In Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I discuss important topics about photography that are essential for both beginners and experienced photographers. This episode's key themes revolve around the pricing of prints, motivation in photography, understanding lenses, managing...
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How to Start in Stock Photography with Rosemary Watson
#549 Rosemary Watson is a successful photographer who has carved out a unique niche in the world of stock photography. The discussion primarily centers around Rosemary's journey into stock photography and the practical steps she took to build a business that thrives on creativity and market…
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Reclaim Your Joy For Photography with Dave Mihaly
#548 Dave Mihaly is a passionate advocate of film photography who shares his journey of transforming personal loss into a therapeutic creative outlet. He recounts experiencing a turning point in 2000 following his mother's death, which highlighted for him the importance of photographing loved…
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Beginner to Pro in 2 years: How To Learn Photography Fast with Nick Church
#547 Nick Church is a UK-based wedding photographer who transitioned from a full-time career in the software industry to photography within 24 months. The central theme revolves around Nick's journey from picking up a camera for the first time in 2014 to becoming a professional photographer. Key...
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Are Photo Meetups The Key To Master Photography with Richard Brodowski
#546 Richard Brodowski is member of the Beginner Photography Podcast Community and innovative equestrian and portrait photographer who shares how he transitioned from taking photos at his daughter's barn to mastering equestrian portraits. He began his photography path in April 2021, initially...
About this show
The Beginner Photography Podcast is a free weekly podcast hosted by professional photographer Raymond Hatfield who interviews world class photographers of all genres who share what they wish they knew when they got started so you can grow your creative photography skills faster! The podcast is brought to you by CloudSpot.io, the client gallery system that is always #EmpoweringPhotographers
Hosted by
Raymond Hatfield