The Beginner Photography Podcast

#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 needs to be “fixed” to be worth keeping or sharing. I encourage you to let go of those expectations and to rediscover what made you pick up a ...

#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 that inspired her to take her first photography course. She discusses her drive for continual learning, willingness to make mistakes, and e...

#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 comparing yourself to others, especially in the age of social media. I remind listeners that success in photography, or any art, isn't reserv...

#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 camera to mastering one of photography’s oldest analog processes—a craft involving silver on glass that dates back to 1851. He highlights how ...

#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 event shots, to building a strong portfolio through strategic “model calls.” I’ll also share practical insights on why your photos migh...

#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 a Sony camera on clearance at Target. This chance purchase set her on an unexpected path, leading to opportunities in music photography, i...

#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 (“lust”)—and a mature, enduring engagement with the craft, marked by sustained commitment and personal growth (“love”). Throughout the episode, I...

#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 and personal growth. He discusses his experiences building a portfolio, including how trading photography for accommodations with Airbnb h...

#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 photography business.

A significant theme in his career is the disciplined approach to business growth. Relying on his background in business, T...

#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 importance of letting your authentic style shine. As you listen, you’ll learn how to define what makes your photography truly unique, why focusing...

#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 between us and the images we want to create. Drawing from my own experiences—like nearly convincing myself to buy a $7,500 Fujifilm GFX100 m...

#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 will gain insights into how Jim found inspiration by witnessing another photographer’s vibrant depiction of Milwaukee—a perspective that ...

#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 unfold. That’s why this episode is all about embracing progress over perfection and being present with your camera, no matter if it’s a phon...

#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 artistic vision, even before she picked up a camera in her twenties. Valerie’s evolution from shooting wildlife and family portraits to ru...

#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, finding and owning your unique editing style, breaking into specialized fields such as wedding or food photography, and building a sustainab...

#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 through photography. His story is a testament to how picking up a camera can become a deeply personal tool for processing emotions, spiritu...

#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 photography after realizing his first passion, professional cycling, wouldn’t pan out. He credits his success to a willingness to follow instinct...

#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 loyalty and generating referrals in the photography business. Through engaging stories and clear advice, Allie illustrates how exceptional...

#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, our true value as photographers comes from how honestly we depict our lives and the world around us. 

KEY TOPICS COVERED

1. Photography as...