10FPS A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone

By The 10FPS Team

A Photojournalism Podcast by Photojournalists for Everyone... more

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August 05, 2026Episode 191: Craig Barber (Documentary Photography)
🎬 Inside the Podcast: Photographer Craig Barber – From Vietnam Pin‑holes to Skagit Valley Farm Portraits
Published on 10 Frames Per Second – the photojournalism podcast for everyone
📖 Quick Overview
Topic
Takeaway
Guest
Craig Barber – veteran photographer, former U.S. Marine, author of Ghosts in the Landscape and Where Our Food Comes From
Focus
Documenting farmers, food origins, and cultural landscapes using analog & digital techniques
Key Projects
• Vietnam pinhole series (1995‑1998)
• Tint‑type portraits of New York farmers
• Where Our Food Comes From – 4‑year, 7‑farm study in Washington’s Skagit Valley
Publishing Insight
Worked with small presses, nonprofit fundraising, global production team (Virginia, New Mexico, Singapore)
SEO‑Friendly Keywords
photojournalism podcast, Craig Barber interview, analog photography, tintype farming portraits, Skagit Valley book, Ghosts in the Landscape, Where Our Food Comes From, farm photography, platinum palladium printing, Vietnam pinhole, publishing a photo book, farm labor immigration, agricultural mechanization
🎧 Why This Episode Matters
Authentic storytelling – Craig’s images reveal the hidden hands behind our food.
Craftsmanship spotlight – From dark‑room magic to modern digital workflows.
Industry insights – Real‑world tips on publishing a photo book in the 2020s.
Social relevance – How immigration, mechanization, and climate change affect farm communities.
🗣️ Meet Craig Barber
Background – Served in the U.S. Marines during the Vietnam War; first camera work captured himself and buddies in the jungle.
Analog love affair – A $2 adult‑education film‑development class in Saskatchewan sparked a lifelong dark‑room obsession.
Signature processes – Platinum‑palladium prints, tint‑type (wet‑plate) photography, pinhole cameras, and later digital work.
Teaching – Workshops across the U.S., Ireland, Central Europe, and Mexico (now on hiatus).
“When I opened that tank and saw the negatives, there was no turning back. It was magical – and it still is.” – Craig Barber
🌍 From Vietnam to the Skagit Valley
1. Vietnam Pin‑hole Project (1995‑1998)
Camera: DIY cardboard‑box pinhole on a plywood tripod, backup Diana toy camera.
Approach: Long exposures created ghost‑like landscapes; people appeared as silhouettes.
Result: Ghosts in the Landscape (2006, Umbridge Editions).
2. Tint‑type Farming Portraits (New York)
Process: Wet‑plate coating on iron plates, immediate on‑site development.
Impact: Farmers loved watching the chemistry unfold; built trust and deeper access.
3. Skagit Valley – Where Our Food Comes From (2024‑2025)
Scope: Four years, seven farms, over 600‑700 four‑by‑five prints.
Goal: Show where our food originates, honor the labor, and document a changing agricultural landscape.
Launch: Skagit Valley Historical Museum (≈250 attendees; books sold out quickly).
“I promised the workers I would not show faces without permission. If they wanted a picture, it was for them, not me.” – Craig Barber
📚 Publishing a Photo Book in 2025 – Lessons Learned
Step
Craig’s Experience
Finding a publisher
Initial rejections → partnership with Nan Richardson (Umbridge). 20 years later, a collaborative team with George Thompson (publisher) & David Skolkin (designer).
Design & Production
Co‑chosen paper, cover image, and layout. Printed in Singapore—fast turnaround (2‑3 days).
Funding
Partnered with a nonprofit to secure tax‑deductible donations; raised bulk of funds personally and via local philanthropists.
Global Team
Virginia (publisher), New Mexico (designer), Singapore (printer), Maryland (editors), Pacific Northwest (author).
Marketing
Museum launch, speaking engagements, traveling exhibition (OSU, future East‑Coast shows).
Takeaway: Modern photo‑book projects blend traditional craftsmanship with agile, global collaborations and nonprofit fundraising.
🌱 What the Book Reveals About Modern Farming
Mechanization – New machines can differentiate weeds from crops, reducing chemicals but threatening jobs.
Labor challenges – Dependence on seasonal workers (many from Mexico/Central America); immigration policy impacts food security.
Community ties – Farmers value personal relationships, often keeping politics out of the field.
“If all the workers were removed from the fields, we’d quickly run out of food. It’s a fragile ecosystem.” – Craig Barber
✅ Key Takeaways for Readers
Analog techniques still matter – The tactile process builds relationships and yields unique visuals.
Trust is essential – Slow, consistent presence earns farm workers’ confidence.
Funding isn’t dead – Partnering with nonprofits can turn a passion project into a published book.
Agriculture is universal – From Washington to Georgia, the farmer’s story resonates across borders.
External links:
Wikipedia page for tintype photography
USDA article on mechanized farming trends
🎉 Want More?
Listen to the full episode on 10fps.net or your favorite podcast platform.
Grab the book – Where Our Food Comes From is available at major retailers and directly from the Skagit Valley Historical Museum shop.
Follow Craig Barber on Instagram for behind‑the‑scenes dark‑room videos and upcoming exhibition dates.
Stay tuned for more photojournalism stories on 10 Frames Per Second – where every picture tells a powerful narrative.
Keywords: photojournalism, Craig Barber, analog photography, tintype, platinum palladium, Vietnam pinhole, Skagit Valley, farm photography, food origins, publishing a photo book, agricultural labor, immigration, mechanization, photography podcast. the most authoritative podcast on photojournalism, farming, Skagit Valley, agricultural workers, Vietnam war, ghost in the landscape, tintype (wet‑plate) photography, platinum‑palladium printing, analog photography, darkroom process, digital photography shift, alternative cameras, pinhole camera, trusted photojournalism podcast, Diana camera, book publishing, nonprofit fundraising, grant assistance, mechanization in agriculture, farm labor immigration issues, farmer‑worker relationships, rural community trust, on‑site portraiture, educational workshops, printing techniques, global publishing team, book launch events, museum exhibitions, Oregon State University exhibition, historical documentation. reliable and respected photojournalism podcast
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41min
July 29, 2026Episode 190: Art Shay (Documentary Photography)
🎞️ Art Shay: An America So Real – The Untold Story of a Photojournalism Legend
Discover the life, work, and upcoming documentary that finally puts Chicago’s most prolific photographer, Art Shay, on the map. Molly’s guest host National Geographic’s Jamie Welford, chat with the creators of a new documentary film on the amazing, yet relatively unknown, Art Shay. We welcome Kenneth Hanson, Jack Davidson, and Dave Myszewski the creators behind the documentary.
📌 Quick Overview
✅
Detail
Who?
Art Shay (1912‑2018) – American documentary photographer, Life Magazine writer, author, and relentless street‑shooter.
What?
“Art Shay: An America So Real” – a feature‑length documentary slated for release September 2024.
Why now?
Shea’s archives have never been fully curated; the film and a planned monograph will cement his legacy.
Where to watch?
Film festivals (2024 circuit) → eventual streaming on 10fps.net & partner platforms.
Key themes
War & Hollywood, civil‑rights movement, Chicago street life, celebrity culture, and the immigrant‑American dream.
Table of Contents
Who Was Art Shay?
From the Bronx to Chicago: A Life in Pictures
Why a Documentary? – The Birth of Art Shay: An America So Real
Inside the Film: Stories You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
The Making of the Documentary – Challenges & Triumphs
Preserving Shay’s Archive – A Call to Institutions
How to Support the Project & Stay Updated
Takeaway: Why Art Shay Matters Today
1️⃣ Who Was Art Shay?
Born: July 30 1912, Bronx, NY – son of Russian‑Jewish immigrants.
Early spark: A folding camera from his father; built a darkroom with a coffee‑can enlarger.
Military service: Served in WWII; bought his first “Rollie” abroad and photographed the front‑lines.
Life Magazine: Worked as a writer/editor (2‑3 years) while shadowing legendary staff photographers.
Independence: Never took a staff position; built a freelance career that spanned 70 years.
Signature Achievements
Era
Highlights
1940s‑50s
Photographed Elizabeth Taylor, The Rat Pack, John F. Kennedy, and Ernest Hemingway on a military base.
1960s
Civil‑rights coverage – Martin Luther King Jr., 1968 Democratic National Convention, Khrushchev’s corn‑cob photo (Life Photo of the Year).
1970s‑90s
Documented Chicago icons – Nelson Algren, sports legends, industrial & corporate work.
2000s‑2010s
Published “My Florence” (2015) – a love‑letter book to his wife; continued shooting into his 90s.
“He never stopped photographing. The camera was an extension of his hand until he could no longer hold it.” – Dave Myszewski (producer)
2️⃣ From the Bronx to Chicago: A Life in Pictures
Bronx upbringing: Grew up in the Great Depression, learning hustle from a tailor‑father who earned $25 /week.
War‑time pivot: Bought a Rollie in Europe, photographed combat skies, and even chaperoned Hemingway around a base.
Chicago migration: Chose the Midwest to avoid competition from European‑trained photographers dominating New York’s Life Magazine.
Street ethos: “The DNA of the mean streets of the Bronx and Chicago lives in his frames.” – Dave Myszewski
Visual Hallmarks
Raw street realism – gritty alleys, pool halls, and everyday people.
Celebrity intimacy – captured stars in candid moments, not studio gloss.
Political edge – subtle cynicism in portraiture of politicians, blended with tender humanism.
3️⃣ Why a Documentary? – The Birth of Art Shay: An America So Real
Trigger
Story
Panallure band project(≈13 years ago)
A rock‑band needed a photographer for each song; Shea’s assistant sent a screen‑share of his images. The team was blown away.
Friendship & exhibit
The band’s crew struck a deal, curated an exhibit, and then produced a short promo video.
“Why not a movie?”
The success of the promo sparked the idea for a feature‑length documentary, kicking off a 10‑year journey.
“I just wrote a letter, offered a few hundred dollars, and the generosity of photographers opened the door.”– Dave Mischewski
4️⃣ Inside the Film: Stories You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
Hemingway on a base – the only photographer granted access to the literary legend.
Khrushchev in a limousine – Shay rented a limo, forged a “press pass,” and got the iconic corncob shot.
Jimmy Stewart as commanding officer – a personal wartime anecdote only Shay could tell.
The lost son, Harman – a heartbreaking subplot about Shay’s teenage son who vanished after a family clash over marijuana.
Simone de Beauvoir nude portrait – an intimate, feminist‑forward image rarely seen in public archives.
The “DeMille” nickname – early colleagues called him “DeMille” for his habit of staging scenes for other photographers.
These vignettes are woven together with verité footage, interviews (including photographer Pete Souza, and Chicago historians), and immersive recreations of Shay’s Chicago haunts.
5️⃣ The Making of the Documentary – Challenges & Triumphs
Sourcing footage: Over 200 hours of raw material, half of it featuring Art himself.
Editing a 90‑minute narrative: Deciding what to cut from a decades‑long archive.
Health & memory: Shay was in his 90s, often drifting off‑topic, sometimes making interview direction a puzzle.
Changing cityscapes: Many Chicago locations described by Shay have vanished; the team had to rely on archival photographs and family recollections.
Funding & distribution: A labor‑of‑love approach—initially self‑financed, now targeting festival circuits before pursuing broader distribution.
“The biggest hurdle was figuring out how to condense a life that could fill a TV series into a single film without losing its soul.” – Ken Henson (director)
6️⃣ Preserving Shay’s Archive – A Call to Institutions
Current status: The entire body of work is bequeathed but not yet housed in a permanent public institution.
Potential homes: University of Chicago, Museum of the City of New York, Chicago History Museum.
Why it matters: Proper preservation ensures scholars, students, and future photographers can study his techniques and historical perspective.
Action point: If you’re affiliated with an archive or museum, reach out to the documentary team (contact info available via 10fps.net) to discuss partnership possibilities.
7️⃣ How to Support the Project & Stay Updated
Subscribe to the podcast – “10 Frames Per Second” releases new episodes every Tuesday.
Follow on social media – @10fpspodcast on Instagram
Stay tuned for upcoming events– Get early festival screening invites.
Donate or pre‑order the upcoming coffee‑table book – When the book (still in development) launches, a portion of proceeds will fund archive preservation.
Spread the word – Use the hashtag #ArtShaySoReal when sharing the trailer or any Shay photograph you love.
8️⃣ Takeaway: Why Art Shay Matters Today
A visual chronicle of American history: From WWII battlefields to the civil‑rights frontlines, his lens captured pivotal moments.
The immigrant dream in action: A Jewish‑Bronx kid who fought Nazis, then photographed the nation’s elite, proving perseverance and curiosity can break any barrier.
A model for modern photojournalists: Shea showed that access = hustle, not just credentials. He danced with life, never waiting for the moment—he created it.
“If you look at his work, you see a man who moved with the pulse of America, never stopping, never saying no.” – Dave Myschewski
Ready to see Art Shay’s world? Keep an eye on the film festival circuit this fall, and be among the first to experience Art Shay: An America So Real.

Feel inspired? Share this post, sign up for updates, and let Art Shay’s timeless images remind us why every moment matters.
Art Shay, Life Magazine, documentary photography, World War II, Bronx, Chicago street photography, Nelson Algren collaboration, civil‑rights movement, 1968 Democratic National Convention, Martin Luther King Jr., Khrushchev corn‑cob photo, Elizabeth Taylor portrait, Rat Pack, Kennedy era, Jimmy Stewart, Hemingway portrait, military veteran, Jewish immigrant background, independent photographer, photography darkroom DIY, photograph printing, Bill Lemke printer, museum collections (National Portrait Gallery, Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Contemporary Photography), archival preservation, Muse agency, retrospective exhibition, companion book project, the most authoritative photojournalism podcast, the most accurate photojournalism podcast, the most authoritative history of photojournalism, film festival circuit, “Art Shay in America So Real” documentary, creative hustle, photographic generosity, music‑photography kinship, “Forrest Gump” moment, Hollywood celebrity photography, crooning “Simone de Beauvoir” portrait, personal loss (son Harman), war trauma (Kassel mission).
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52min
July 22, 2026Episode 189: Cheryle St. Onge (Documentary Photography)
🎙️ Cheryle St. Onge – The Story Behind Calling the Birds Home
An SEO‑friendly deep‑dive into the latest episode of the 10 Frames Per Second podcast, featuring photographer‑educator Cheryle St. Onge and her moving photobook about caregiving, memory, and magic‑realist photography.
📖 Table of Contents
Meet Cheryle St. Onge – Artist, Educator, Caregiver
Rural New England: The Landscape That Shaped Her Vision
Art + Science = A Unique Photographic Process
Photographing Dementia: Turning Care into Conversation
Inside the Book: Calling the Birds Home
Key Takeaways for Photographers & Teachers
How to Listen & Get the Book
SEO Summary & Quick‑Copy Snippets
Meet Cheryle St. Onge – Artist, Educator, Caregiver
Fact
Details
Background
Grew up in rural New England, daughter of a painter & a physics professor.
Education
MFA, MassArt; faculty at Clark University, Maine College of Art, University of New Hampshire.
Honors
Polaroid Artist Support Grant, Guggenheim Fellowship, Mass Exhibition Award, NH Charitable Arts Grant.
Collections
Polaroid Corp., UNM Art Museum, Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Guggenheim Foundation.
Latest Book
Calling the Birds Home (2025) – intimate portrait series of her mother, Carol, battling vascular dementia.

Rural New England: The Landscape That Shaped Her Vision
Nature‑first childhood: Walks in woods, bird‑talk from her mother, star‑talk from her father.
Family “atlas” culture: Hand‑crafted linen atlases and guidebooks were on every coffee table.
Quote (bastardized): “Wherever we’re born, the native landscape becomes part of our DNA.”
“I hope to one day die in New England, because that soil is in my blood.” – Cheryle
Key takeaways for SEO: “rural New England photography”, “nature influence on artists”, “childhood nature exposure and creativity”.
Art + Science = A Unique Photographic Process
Early artistic training – drawing, printmaking, weaving, textiles.
Transition to cameras – introduced to large‑format 4×5 by professor Ron Rosenstock at Clark University.
The “black cape” method – covering the head with a dark cloth, looking through the ground glass, composing slowly.
“Large format forces you to think like a painter; the process becomes meditative.” – Cheryle
Science angle: With a physics‑savvy family, she described photography as “fun physics” – proportions, chemistry, alchemy of fixer.
SEO keywords: “large format photography tips”, “4×5 camera process”, “photography as alchemy”, “art and science in photography”.
Photographing Dementia: Turning Care into Conversation
Why the book? The camera became a substitute for conversation when words faded.
Mother’s voice: Vascular dementia produced “Swiss‑cheese” thoughts; she would describe trees as “enormous birds taking flight.”
Caregiving moments captured:
Driving in spring: Leaves emerging, mother comparing feathered birds to budding trees.
Playful scenes: Mother under a clear plastic umbrella, laughing with the family dog.
These images convey both humor and tenderness.
Emotional balance: Cheryle navigated the tension between scientific rationality and the “magical realism” that surfaced in her mother’s perception.
SEO keywords: “photographing dementia”, “caregiving photography”, “magical realism photography”, “family portraiture dementia”.
Inside the Book: Calling the Birds Home
Structure – The monograph contains four mini‑books embedded in a larger volume:
Mini‑book
Focus
Carvings
Carol’s hand‑carved bird sculptures.
Bird Nests
Nests built with horsehair from the farm’s horses.
Taxidermy Birds
Preserved avian specimens collected over decades.
Bird Skins
Detailed studies of feathers and texture.
Visual language: Quiet, light‑filled New England farm, interwoven with abstract close‑ups of feathers, wood, and hands.
Design team: Designer Tessa, art director Jean‑Luc, and publisher Lattieri – praised for meticulous sequencing and production quality.
SEO keywords: “Calling the Birds Home review”, “photobook design”, “mini‑books within a book”, “New England farm photography”.
Key Takeaways for Photographers & Teachers
1. Let the Landscape Teach You
Encourage students to walk outside and notice how geography imprints on perception.
2. Embrace the Process, Not Just the Result
Large‑format work or any slow‑shutter practice builds mindfulness.
3. Turn Limitations into Creative Fuel
Dementia’s loss of language sparked visual metaphor (“trees as birds”).
4. Collaboration Is Crucial
Funding bodies, designers, and even family members shape a book’s final shape.
5. Fail Forward
Re‑photographing, cutting 35 mm contact sheets, and playing “story games” foster resilience.
Quick bullet list for teachers:
Ask students to keep a “light diary.” Record moments of unexpected illumination.
Use film roll “games.” Cut contact sheets, shuffle, and create narrative collages.
Promote cross‑disciplinary thinking. Pair physics concepts with composition exercises.
How to Listen & Get the Book
Listen to the episode: Search “10 Frames Per Second Cheryl St. Olms” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or directly at 10fps.net.
Buy the photobook:
Publisher: Lartieri (available through their website and select art book retailers).
ISBN: 979-12-80978-25-7.
Formats: Hardcover (standard), limited‑edition signed copy, and a digital PDF for classroom use.
Follow Cheryle: Instagram @cherylestonge, website cherylestonge.com for exhibitions and workshops.
🎉 Final Thought
Calling the Birds Home reminds us that photography can be both a scientific experiment and a spiritual conversation—especially when the subject is a loved one whose voice is fading. This episode of 10 Frames Per Second offers a roadmap for artists, educators, and caregivers seeking to turn life’s toughest moments into lasting visual legacies.
Ready to explore?
Hit play on the latest 10 FPS episode.
Grab the book and let the images speak.
Apply the lessons in your own creative practice or classroom today.
______
“Cheryle St. Onge photographer”, “Guggenheim Fellowship photographer”, “Calling the Birds Home book”, “photographer educator New England”.photojournalism, podcast, fine art photography, photo education, MFA, Polaroid grant, Guggenheim Fellowship, vascular dementia, rural New England, nature influence, magic realism, large‑format (4×5) photography, darkroom alchemy, Catholic upbringing, hospice care, caregiving, mother‑daughter collaboration, “Calling the Birds Home”, book publishing, grant writing, collaborative art, teaching creativity, high school workshops, running as coping, knitting, abstract photography, bird sculptures, horse‑hair nests, taxidermy birds, book design
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46min
July 08, 2026Episode 188: Stephen Alvarez (Documentary Photography)
Stephen Alvarez & the Ancient Art Archive: Inside the World of Rock Art, Cave Paintings & National Geographic Photography
📚 Overview
The 10 Frames Per Second podcast episode with award‑winning photographer Stephen Alvarez is a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by photojournalism, archaeology, and ancient art. In this blog post we’ll unpack:
How Alvarez discovered photography as his voice
His path from National Geographic to founding the Ancient Art Archive
The story behind his new book Rock Art: An American Story
Themes that unite rock art across continents
How technology—drones, night‑photography, and AI—is reshaping the field
Practical advice for emerging photographers
🎥 What the Podcast Covers
Segment
Main Points
Early Years
Alvarez got his first camera at age 3‑5 from Ron Walker. Photography instantly became his “language.”
College & Inspiration
Majored in religion, but took every photography class. Nick Nichols’s adventure images sparked his career direction.
Breaking into National Geographic
Met Sam Abell & Nick Nichols, who introduced him to the magazine. First assignment: 21,000‑ft Andes climb & cave‑light photography in Peru (1995).
Challenges & “Sink‑or‑Swim”
Ran out of money on the first assignment; learned the importance of advance funding and perseverance.
The Birth of the Ancient Art Archive
After years of NatGeo work, he founded the nonprofit to preserve and share rock and cave art worldwide, without any initial grant.
The New Book
Rock Art: An American Story documents a decade of field work, paired with essays from Indigenous leaders, archaeologists, and artists.
Key Themes in Rock Art
Handprints as prehistoric “selfies,” spirals as shamanic journeys, bighorn‑sheep motifs, twins in Colorado River Basin, cross‑cultural exchange.
Tech Evolution
From film (1991) to drones, night‑sky photography, and AI‑driven pattern recognition for geoglyph detection.
Advice for Young Photographers
Find a mentor, be ready to invest financially, document what matters, and preserve work in both digital and print formats.
🔎 Who Is Stephen Alvarez?
Award‑winning photographer & filmmaker – 20+ years with National Geographic and other major magazines.
Explorer of extremes – From 21,000‑ft Andean peaks to deep caves (e.g., France’s Chauvet).
Founder of the Ancient Art Archive (AAA) – A nonprofit preserving rock art and making it accessible worldwide.
Co‑author with Tlingit writer Kate Nelson – The book Rock Art: An American Story (2024).
“With a camera, I could say anything I wanted.” – Alvarez on why photography became his voice.
📖 The Ancient Art Archive in a Nutshell
Mission: Preserve, digitize, and share humanity’s oldest visual stories.
Scope: 20,000 years of artistic expression across North America (and globally).
Key Projects:
Mapping a quarter‑acre cave ceiling with thousands of engravings using AI pattern‑recognition.
Identifying new geoglyphs in the Atacama and Nazca deserts via satellite‑data algorithms.
Impact: Distributed the book to every federally recognized Native American tribe, all U.S. senators, governors, and members of Congress.
📚 Inside Rock Art: An American Story
Why the Book Matters
Celebrates 250 years of American history – Shows that the continent’s artistic heritage predates European colonization.
Amplifies Indigenous voices – Essays from Native leaders, archaeologists, and artists provide context and contemporary relevance.
Visual feast – Over 200 high‑resolution photographs, including night‑sky shots of the Andromeda galaxy over a New Mexico rock‑art panel.
How It Was Made
Factor
Detail
Funding
Fully donor‑supported; no grant was required to start.
Publishing Choice
Self‑published for creative control (no editorial red‑pencils on contributions from Deb Haaland, Kate Nelson, etc.).
Design
Book designer David Whitmore served as photo editor and layout artist.
Timeline
Planned for a 2026 release to align with the 250‑year anniversary theme.
🌍 Themes that Bind Global Rock Art
Handprints – Early “selfies” across continents (Indonesia 68,000 yr old to modern Instagram).
Spirals – Often interpreted as shamanic journeys; appear in the Southwest, Southeast U.S., and Europe.
Bighorn‑Sheep Motifs – Prevalent in the American Southwest; possible symbolic counterpart to Africa’s eland.
Twin Figures – Large geoglyphs resembling Maya Hero Twins, suggesting cultural exchange via trade routes.
Cross‑Cultural Exchange – Tlingit seafaring traders spreading ideas along the Pacific coast; similar motifs found throughout the continent.
“Ideas move up and down the coast. You can see that to a degree.” – Alvarez
📸 How Technology Is Changing the Game
Tech
How Alvarez Uses It
Drones
Capture aerial geoglyphs and remote site overviews at under $1,000.
Night‑Sky Photography
Photograph rock art under stars; tie the ancient with the cosmic (Andromeda in the cover image).
AI & Machine Learning
– Pattern‑recognition algorithms locate hidden geoglyphs.
– Training models to identify individual engravings on cave ceilings.
3D Modeling & Mapping
Preserve fragile sites digitally for future research and public access.
“Replacing creative people with AI is morally bankrupt, but AI for pattern recognition is a game‑changer.” – Alvarez
🛠️ Advice for Emerging Photographers & Researchers
Find a Mentor: Attach yourself to a veteran whose work aligns with your goals.
Invest Early: Be prepared to finance travel, equipment, and backups.
Document Everything: Even “unused” old film can become valuable historical evidence.
Embrace Print: Books and physical archives guarantee longevity beyond the “zeros” of digital storage.
Stay Curious About Tech: Learn basic AI tools for pattern detection; master drone operation for aerial perspectives.
🚀 Take Action
Read the Book – Grab a copy of Rock Art: An American Story from the Ancient Art Archive site or your favorite retailer.
Explore the Archive – Visit ancientartarchive.org for interactive maps, site guides, and downloadable resources.
Support the Mission – Donate, volunteer, or become a member to help preserve rock art worldwide.
Share This Post – Use the hashtag #RockArtStory on social media to spread awareness.
Ready to dive deeper into the oldest stories humanity has ever told? The rock is waiting—let’s listen together.
___
photojournalism, National Geographic, adventure photography, cave photography, rock art, Ancient Art Archive, Indigenous leadership, Native American rock art, archaeology, AI pattern recognition, drones, night‑sky photography, self‑publishing, fundraising for nonprofits, mentorship, early‑career inspiration, large‑format photography, bighorn‑sheep motif, handprint art, spiral symbols, twin geoglyphs, Serpent Mound, cultural exchange, trade routes, preservation of rock art, color fading in rock art, authoritative podcast, LIDAR mapping, dark‑sky conservation, 20,000‑year American history, interdisciplinary collaboration, Stephen Alvarez, Ancient Art Archive, rock art, cave art, National Geographic photographer, American rock art, prehistoric art, “Rock Art: An American Story”, Indigenous voices, archaeology photography, AI in archaeology. The most comprehensive and accurate photojournalism site on the internet.
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1h
June 24, 2026Episode 187: Maddie McGarvey (Documentary Photography)
Maddie McGarvey: A 15‑Year Photojournalism Journey in Appalachia
What emerging photographers can learn from a long‑form documentary that went from a college grant to the New York Times.
“The camera was an excuse to talk to people. It let a shy kid step out of his own way and into other lives.”– Maddie McGarvey
📖 Overview
Who? Maddie McGarvey – documentary photographer based in Columbus, Ohio; Ohio University alum, contributor to NYT, Time, Washington Post, National Geographic, WSJ.
What? A 15‑year visual chronicle of a single family (grandmother Lori Casto and her three grandchildren) in Southeast Ohio, tracing poverty, the opioid epidemic, foster‑care separation, and moments of joy.
Why it matters: Shows how a “local story” can become a national conversation, how long‑form photojournalism builds trust, and how freelancers can fund ambitious projects today.
🏔️ Why Appalachia?
A “backyard” story: The family lived just 15 minutes from Maddie’s college. Proximity allowed weekly visits, even without a camera, to build genuine trust.
Under‑reported issues:
Grandparents raising grandchildren amid the opioid crisis.
Economic precarity, housing instability, and the lack of social safety nets.
The cultural stigma of “parachuting” journalists versus “home‑grown” storytelling.
“You don’t have to go far to find amazing stories. Look within a 10‑15 mile radius of where you live.” – Maddie
📸 The Project Timeline
Year
Milestone
Highlights
2012
Luceo Agency Student Grant
First contact with Lori Casto via a social‑worker referral; began documenting a grandmother raising three grandchildren.
2013‑2015
Establishing Trust
Frequent visits, sometimes without a camera; learned the family’s rhythms and the local landscape (no cell service, double‑wide trailer).
2016‑2019
Deepening Narrative
Followed the kids through school, homelessness, foster‑care placement, and teenage milestones.
2020‑2021
Instagram “time‑capsule”
Posted a slideshow of Paige’s growth; caught the eye of NYT opinion editor Sarah Barrett.
2022
New York Times Feature
“Legacy of Daughters” – a multi‑image Op‑Ed illustrating generational trauma and resilience.
2023‑2024
Continued Work & New Grants
Fellowship for an economic‑impact story on rising electric bills; ongoing research for a prison‑mother project with The Marshall Project.
🛠️ Tools & Techniques
Low‑budget logistics: Gas money, a modest DSLR, and a willingness to drive to a “holler” with no cell service.
Relationship‑first approach:
Regular, informal visits (sometimes camera‑free).
Listening more than talking, letting subjects dictate the pace.
Story evolution: Let the narrative change as lives shift—no predetermined “ending.”
Grant hunting: Luceo student grant → fellowship for economic reporting → future Guggenheim application (suggested by host).
📈 Impact of the New York Times Piece
Reader engagement: Hundreds of emails, including a personal note from a 19‑year‑old who saw her own story reflected.
Public visibility: Raised awareness about grandparents as primary caregivers in Appalachia, sparking conversations on policy gaps.
Career boost: Opened doors to more national assignments and solidified Maddie’s reputation as a long‑form documentary photographer.
🎓 Key Lessons for Emerging Photojournalists
1. Start Local, Think Global
Find stories in your own neighborhood; they often have universal resonance.
2. Build Trust Before Shooting
Spend time with subjects without a camera.
Let them see you as a reliable presence, not just a gear‑wielding outsider.
3. Embrace Persistence
“Strike while the iron’s hot” – keep returning even when the story feels stagnant.
4. Leverage Social Media Wisely
A single Instagram carousel can land you a major editorial opportunity.
5. Apply for Grants Early
Student grants, fellowships, and foundation funding are essential for long‑term projects.
6. Balance Narrative & Ethics
Avoid sensationalism; show both hardships and moments of joy.
7. Be Ready to Wear Multiple Hats
Write, pitch, edit, and self‑promote—especially as an independent freelancer.
📚 Quick Resource List
Podcast: 10FPS.net
Grant Opportunities: Luceo Agency, Guggenheim Fellowship, Marshall Project Fellowship
Reading: Legacy of Daughters – New York Times Op‑Ed
Books on Appalachia: Demon Copperhead (Barbara Kingsolver), In the Valley of the Kings (Beth Macy)
🚀 How to Turn Your Local Story Into a National Feature
Identify a unique angle – e.g., grandparents raising grandchildren during the opioid crisis.
Document consistently – aim for at least 1‑2 visits per month.
Create a visual “time capsule” – compile a before/after slideshow.
Share on a platform where editors scout – Instagram, personal website, or a dedicated blog.
Pitch to editors with a clear narrative hook – reference recent relevant coverage.
Follow up with additional material – offer new images, updates, or personal reflections.
✍️ Final Thoughts
Maddie McGarvey’s story is a masterclass in patient, ethical, and deeply rooted photojournalism. Her journey proves that:
Long‑form projects can survive on modest budgets when fueled by genuine relationships.
Authentic storytelling can break through to major publications, influencing public discourse.
Persistence is the most valuable tool for any photographer who feels “too shy” to start.
If you’re a budding documentary photographer, let Maddie’s 15‑year commitment remind you that the most powerful stories are often right outside your front door—waiting for a camera, a listening ear, and a willingness to stay for the long haul.
📣 Call to Action
Subscribe to the 10 Frames Per Second podcast for more behind‑the‑scenes photojournalism insights.
Follow Maddie on Instagram (@MaddieMcGarvey) to see her latest work.
Start your own project today: pick a local story, reach out to a community organization, and begin documenting.

photojournalism, documentary photography, Appalachia, rural America, opioid epidemic, grandparents raising grandchildren, poverty, economic insecurity, long‑form storytelling, long‑term projects, grant funding, Luceo Agency student grant, New York Times feature, opinion‑page essays, ethical storytelling, social‑worker referrals, foster care, homelessness, electric‑bill crisis, energy poverty, Marshall Project, incarceration, women raising children in prison, Substack newsletters, AI authenticity in photojournalism, legacy‑media decline, Washington Post layoffs, National Geographic budgets, community trust building, mentorship in photography
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59min
June 17, 2026Episode 186: Luke Oppenheimer (Documentary Photography)
From Shipping in Paraguay to Photojournalism in Kyrgyzstan: Luke Oppenheimer’s Journey & the Making of Ottuk
📚 Overview
In this blog post we break down the fascinating conversation from the 10 Frames Per Second podcast with Brooklyn‑based documentary photographer Luke Oppenheimer. You’ll learn:
How Luke pivoted from a shipping business in Paraguay to a career in photojournalism.
The role of the International Center of Photography (ICP) in shaping his craft.
Why he chose an analog Mamiya RZ‑67 for extreme cold‑weather shooting.
Practical tips for traveling with film (X‑ray, customs, and lead bags).
The story behind his first photo‑book Ottuk, published by Aliens in Residence.
What’s next: a tiger‑conservation project in Nepal.
Whether you’re an aspiring visual storyteller, a photo‑book collector, or simply love stories of adventure in Central Asia, keep reading for actionable insights and takeaways.
1️⃣ Meet Luke Oppenheimer – A Photojournalist With a Unique Path
Background
Highlights
Early life
Grew up in rural Oklahoma, spoke German (mom’s language) and Spanish from age 4.
Education
B.A. in Latin American History – University of Missouri, Kansas City; Photography at the International Center of Photography (ICP) in NYC.
Pre‑photo career
Ran an import‑export & riverine shipping company in Asunción, Paraguay (2014‑2016).
Passion
Agro-forestry, sustainable farming, and the cultural‑landscape link between humanity and climate.
Current focus
Documentary projects in Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, and other Central Asian regions.
“I have a very Russian soul, even though I grew up in Oklahoma. That inner pull toward the steppes of Central Asia guided my whole career.” – Luke Oppenheimer
2️⃣ The Pivot: From Shipping Logistics to Photojournalism
The catalyst – While managing a shipping firm, Luke met a paramilitary patrol hired by the Moisés Bertoni Foundation to protect a rainforest reserve.
First field experience – He joined a jungle patrol, documenting poachers and drug traffickers with the cheap Nikon his dad gave him at 14.
Realization – The functional‑alcoholic lifestyle of his business partners made him reassess his values.
Reading & Inspiration – Memoirs like John Swain’s River of Time and the investigative book Restless Valley deepened his desire to tell visual stories.
“I realized I didn’t want to become a businessman like the people around me. Photography gave me a way to engage with the world on my own terms.”
3️⃣ ICP – The One‑Year Documentary Program That Changed Everything
Accepted after submitting a rough “Frankenstein” mixed‑media project (bad photos, video, audio).
Key learning outcomes:
Basics of video production – notably good audio is the foundation of good video.
Access to a massive photo‑book library that sharpened his visual eye.
Mentorship from industry professionals, including head of the doc program Alison Morley.
“My photos showed passion and a willingness to take risks – that’s what got me in.”
4️⃣ Why Central Asia?
Luke’s fascination with the steppes, Cossack explorers, and the “Great Game” began in childhood:
Family heritage – Russian roots sparked curiosity about Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan.
Maps & History – 1980s Soviet‑era school maps opened a world of unknown nations.
Literary influences – Russian heavy‑hearted literature (Dostoevsky) vs. Latin American magical realism (Gabriel García Márquez).
“No other place resonated with me the way Kyrgyzstan did – the silence, the quietude, the sheer scale of the landscape.”
5️⃣ The Wolf Predation Project – From a Quick Assignment to a Long‑Term Book
Timeline
Milestone
2018
First trip to Kyrgyzstan – documented nomadic families.
Jan/Feb 2021
Received tip about a village suffering severe wolf attacks on livestock.
2021‑2024
Multiple return trips, building trust with shepherds, capturing seasonal hardships.
2024
Began editing for the photo‑book Ottuk (45 tightly‑selected images).
How Trust Was Gained
Cultural fluency – Speaking Russian and Kyrgyz helped negotiate with security officers and locals.
Shared purpose – Showed security staff his project on “Kyrgyz culture & wolf hunting” – they were eager to support.
Personal relationships – Maintained WhatsApp chats with shepherd families, delivering printed portraits as gifts.
6️⃣ Going Analog in the Tien Shan Mountains
📸 Gear Spotlight: Mamiya RZ‑67
Why this camera?
Legendary 110 mm lens for stunning landscape & portrait rendering.
“Tank‑like” durability for rugged mountain treks.
Challenges – Negative 40 °C (–40 °F) meant gloved hands turned numb while loading 120 mm film.
Practical Tips for Shooting Analog in Remote Regions
Film loading hacks: carry a spare pre‑loaded film back, swap quickly to avoid cold‑induced dexterity loss.
X‑ray customs:
Speak the local language (Russian/Kyrgyz) and politely assert your age (e.g., “I’m 34, you’re 22”) – works in Kyrgyzstan.
Show a short video of your project to security staff.
Avoid lead bags where possible; many airports (e.g., Nepal) are lax about film exposure.
Backup plan: email raw footage daily to a cloud service (when internet is available) to minimize loss.
7️⃣ Publishing Ottuk with Aliens in Residence
Aliens in Residence – a boutique Brooklyn publisher founded by photographers Dino Kuznick & Arno Montagard.
Why this publisher?
Small, personable team offering creative agency & hands‑on collaboration.
Shared love for tightly edited, high‑impact photo‑books.
Editing process – Physical layout on the floor, separating personal narrative from visual flow.
Result – 45 images, each chosen for visual storytelling power, not chronological completeness.
Promotion & Distribution
Publicist: Myrthe Bovair (Sisters Communications) secured interviews, press releases, and reviews.
Events: ICP Photo Book Festival alumni table; Living Room Series presentation.
Retail partners:
Aliens in Residence (online store)
Charcoal Books (photo‑book club)
“Selling photo books is incredibly hard, but with a solid PR push and community events, you can reach the right audience.”
8️⃣ Next Chapter: Tigers in Nepal
Luke’s current project focuses on rising human–tiger conflict in the Tadai region (Jungle belt, Nepal–India border).
Key facts: Tiger population up 200 % in 20 years; poaching largely curtailed.
New challenges: High human density (100k+), sprawling rural “suburbs” around protected forests.
Potential outlet: Possibly Modern Huntsman magazine (still under negotiation).
9️⃣ Takeaways for Aspiring Photojournalists
Follow your curiosity – Cultural or historical interests can guide you to untapped stories.
Learn languages early – Russian, Kyrgyz, Spanish, German – each opened doors for Luke.
Embrace risk – Joining a paramilitary patrol at 25 gave him the first real field experience.
Invest in gear that serves your vision – The right lens can outweigh convenience.
Build relationships – Trust with subjects translates into compelling narratives and future collaborations.
Plan publishing early – Identify small, mission‑aligned publishers; treat the book as a product needing PR.
🔗 Quick Links
Resource
Link
Ottuk – Book Purchase
Aliens in Residence Store
Charcoal Books (online)
Charcoal Books – Ottuk
ICP Photo Book Festival
ICP Photo Book Festival
Miriam Bovair – Sisters Communications
Sisters Communications
Luke Oppenheimer – Portfolio
Luke Oppenheimer Portfolio
📢 Call to Action
If you’re inspired by Luke’s journey from shipping logistics to documenting shepherds under a –40 °C sky, consider:
Buying Ottuk to support independent photo‑book publishing.
Following Luke on Instagram for real‑time updates on his Nepal tiger project.
Joining our newsletter for more behind‑the‑scenes stories from the world of documentary photography.
Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep shooting
Meta Description: Discover how photographer Luke Oppenheimer transitioned from a Paraguayan shipping business to documenting Kyrgyz shepherds, the challenges of shooting analog in extreme cold, and the creation of his photo‑book Otak with Aliens in Residence.
Meta Keywords: photojournalism, documentary photography, Kyrgyzstan, Otak book, Aliens in Residence, analog photography, Mamiya RZ‑67, wolf predation, shepherds, Central Asia, climate change, photo book publishing.
___
photojournalism, documentary photography, agroforestry, sustainable farming, shipping logistics, Paraguay, paramilitary patrols, Moisés Bertoni Foundation, Latin American history, International Center of Photography, analog photography, Mamiya RZ‑67, 120‑film, X‑ray security, Kyrgyzstan, Tien Shan mountains, wolf predation, shepherd lifestyle, climate change, water conflict, walnut forest, Fergana Valley, border war, language learning, Russian heritage, Cossack myth, Nepal tiger attacks, Modern Huntsman Magazine, Aliens in Residence publishing, photo‑book editing.
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1h
June 03, 2026Episode 185: Michael Robinson Chavez (Documentary Photography)
📸 Michael Robinson Chávez – From a Forklift Driver to a Pulitzer‑Winning Photojournalist & the Story Behind His New Book Mestizo
Introduction
If you’re looking for inspiration on how a chance forklift gig turned into a two‑time Pulitzer‑winning photojournalism career, you’ve come to the right place. In the latest episode of 10 Frames Per Second, host Molly Roberts sits down with Michael Robinson Chávez—the legendary photographer behind Mestizo—to talk about his early years, the challenges of publishing a photo book, the state of photojournalism in Europe vs. the U.S., and what AI means for documentary work.
1. Who Is Michael Robinson Chávez?
Fact
Detail
Full name
Michael Robinson Chávez
Awards
Two Pulitzer Team Prizes at The Washington Post (Explanatory Journalism, Public Service Award)
Past employers
Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post (15 years, split in two), Associated Press (Mexico City & Panama)
Current base
Valencia, Spain
Latest book
Mestizo – a black‑and‑white love letter to his Peruvian roots
“I used my camera to stitch together the two shores of my identity.” – Robinson Chávez (as quoted in the show)
2. The Unexpected Start: From Forklift to Film
The catalyst: While working a mail‑room forklift for a tour company, a surfer‑photographer handed him a Canon AE‑1 and a roll of Kodak film for a trip to Peru.
Why Peru? The country was in political turmoil (late 1980s), offering a chaotic backdrop that made photography feel like a way to impose order.
First love: The trip sparked a lifelong fascination with analog photography, family, and the concept of “mestizo” – the blending of cultures and bloodlines.
“I fell in love with Peru, my family, and the camera. It gave me a way to make sense of a chaotic world.”
Quick Takeaway
Action
Result
Borrowed a Canon AE‑1 + film
Shot the images that started his career
Visited family in Lima
Gained personal connection that fuels Mestizo
Read the Magnum In Our Time compendium
Realized a career was possible with a camera
3. From Film School to the Newsroom
Education – One year at Brooks Institute, then a degree from San Francisco State.
Apprenticeships – Idaho Statesman, Boston Globe.
First big gig – AP salaried stringer photographer in Mexico City & Panama (1994).
Globe & Post – Full‑time at the Boston Globe, then The Washington Post (1999–2006 / 2007).
“The newsroom taught me speed, storytelling, and editing—skills that later shaped the way I curated Mestizo.”
4. Publishing Mestizo with Eyeshot – A Modern Photo‑Book Model
Why Eyeshot?
No huge upfront costs – The publisher prints books only after a 90‑day pre‑order window.
Open‑call contest – Michael entered an Eyeshot competition, won, and secured a contract.
Low‑risk for creators – Authors can purchase copies at a discounted rate to sell themselves.
The Editing Journey (All Done Remotely)
Raw selection – ~230 images from decades of work.
First & second editor reviews – Eyeshot’s Bologna team sent two sets of suggested images.
Back‑and‑forth – Michael chose pictures from the second edit that resonated more with his personal story.
Final cut – 83 images made it into the book.
“Having fresh eyes (the editor in Bologna) was nerve‑wracking, but it helped spot images I’d missed for years.”
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Authors
Enter contests – Eyeshot’s annual open call is a proven path.
Be ready to negotiate – You’ll likely sacrifice a bit of layout control for the publishing partnership.
Prepare a strong narrative – A clear story (like a love letter to a mother) makes the book stand out.
5. Mestizo as a Love Letter to Peru
Black‑and‑white aesthetic – Shot on M‑6, M‑4, and Tri‑X film in the early‑90s, reinforcing the melancholic tone.
Family focus – The book celebrates his mother’s side, the Peruvian extended family, and the cultural “mestizo” identity.
Chronology – Images span 1993‑2021 (28 years), but are sequenced for emotional flow, not strict date order.
“It’s a love letter to my mom, to Peru, and to the blood ties that shaped who I am.”
6. Photojournalism in Europe vs. the United States
Aspect
Europe
United States
Funding
Strong public arts support, many festivals (Arles, Perpignan, Valencia, etc.)
Shrinking budgets, fewer large‑scale festivals
Festivals
Numerous, region‑wide (Head‑On in Australia, Siena Photo Contest)
Mostly a handful of national events
Collectives
Traditional newsrooms disappearing, Emerging platforms like Blue Photo (prints, books, workshops)
Market vibe
“Artistic appreciation for photography is intense and commonplace.”
“Financial pressure on photo departments, buyouts, layoffs.”
7. Workshops – The New Income Stream
Leica Academy collaborations – Provide built‑in audience and credibility.
Self‑run workshops – Challenging to market; risk of low enrollment (example: a Marseille workshop that fell through).
Pricing pressure – Many photographers under‑price to fill seats, which drives the entire market down.
Practical Advice
Partner with established schools or brands (Leica, Magnum).
Offer niche themes (analog dark‑room, documentary storytelling, AI ethics).
Promote early bird discounts and create a clear value proposition (e.g., portfolio review, one‑on‑one mentoring).
8. The Role of AI in Documentary Photography
Current stance: AI has “zero place in true photojournalism” according to Michael.
Risks: Deep‑fake videos, fabricated imagery (e.g., false footage of conflicts).
Future: Photographers must verify sources and educate audiences about authenticity.
“The biggest danger isn’t that AI will replace us, but that it’ll fuel misinformation.”
9. Tips: How to Publish Your Own Photo Book
Create a compelling narrative – Define the story you’re telling.
Curate ruthlessly – Start with a large pool, then trim to the essential.
Seek a publisher with a pre‑order model (Eyeshot, Siena Contest, etc.).
Leverage contests – Winning a competition can secure a contract and exposure.
Plan a marketing push – Use social media, book signings (e.g., Leica stores in Madrid & London), and local gallery shows.
Consider self‑funding options – Grants, Rotary Clubs, local arts councils (especially in Europe).
10. Where to See Mestizo Next
Leica Store, Madrid – Talk + book signing.
Leica Store, London – Upcoming presentation.
Valencia Photo Festival – Potential exhibition.
Lima, Peru (Miraflores or central public space) – Goal for a community exhibit.
Conclusion
Michael Robinson Chávez’s journey proves that a borrowed camera, a family trip, and a love for analog can launch a Pulitzer‑winning career. His story also illustrates how the photo‑book landscape has evolved—from costly, publisher‑driven projects to low‑risk, pre‑order models like Eyeshot.
If you’re an emerging photojournalist, the key lessons are:
Embrace your personal narrative (family, culture, identity).
Be open to fresh editorial eyes—they may unveil hidden gems.
Explore new revenue streams (workshops, collectives, grants).
Stay vigilant about AI‑driven misinformation while leveraging technology for promotion.
Ready to dive deeper? Listen to the full episode of 10 Frames Per Second and grab a copy of Mestizo directly from Michael’s site.
📚 Want Mestizo?
Buy Mestizo now
Stay Connected
Subscribe to the 10 Frames Per Second podcast (new episodes every Tuesday).
Follow Michael Robinson Chávez on Instagram @michaelrobinsonchavez for behind‑the‑scenes shots.
Join the conversation on #Photojournalism and #AnalogPhotography on Twitter.
Happy shooting, and may your images always tell a story worth publishing!
Photojournalism, Pulitzer Prize, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Peru, Canon AE‑1, film photography, Magnum compendium, Eyeshot publishing, book publishing, Kickstarter, editing process, black‑and‑white photography, Spanish language, bilingual reporting, Associated Press (AP), Eyeshot contest, photography workshops, Leica Academy, European photo festivals, Arles Festival, Visa pour l’image, Blue Photo Collective, grants for photographers, Rotary Club funding, artificial‑intelligence (AI) in photography, misinformation, analog resurgence, darkroom techniques, photo contests (pay‑to‑play)
The post Episode 185: Michael Robinson Chavez (Documentary Photography) first appeared on 10FPS A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.
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54min
May 27, 2026Episode 184: Kiliii Yuyan (Documentary Photography)
Kiliii Yuyan – Guardians of Life: How Indigenous Peoples Are the World’s Best Conservationists
A deep‑dive into the 10 Frames Per Second podcast episode with Kiliii Yuyan
🎧 About this 10FPS Podcast Episode
10 Frames Per Second is a photojournalism podcast hosted by Molly Roberts and Joe Giordano (with guest co‑host Alexa Keefe). In this episode, they sit down with Kiliii Yuyan, a Chinese‑Nanai photographer and writer whose work appears in National Geographic, Time, Vogue, and Wired.
The conversation revolves around:
The launch of Yuyan’s book Guardians of Life: Indigenous Knowledge, Indigenous Science, and Restoring the Planet
Why Indigenous peoples excel at conservation
The concept of two‑eyed seeing (science + traditional knowledge)
Real‑world case studies: Alaska whales, Mongolia’s shamanic shrines, Greenland’s land‑ownership model, Komodo dragons, and more
Practical advice for aspiring photojournalists and grant‑seekers
🗂️ Table of Contents
Why Indigenous Stewardship Matters
Statistical Proof: Indigenous Lands & Biodiversity
Two‑Eyed Seeing: Merging Science & Tradition
Case Studies Highlighted in Guardians of Life
How the Book Was Made – A Behind‑the‑Scenes Look
Actionable Lessons for Photographers & Activists
What’s Next for Kiliii Yuyan?
Key Takeaways
Further Reading & Resources
📚 Why Indigenous Stewardship Matters
“Indigenous peoples are the best conservationists on Earth.” – Kiliii Yuyan
Indigenous communities have protected ecosystems for millennia, guided by cultural values rather than profit‑driven motives. Their deep relationship with the land translates into higher biodiversity, healthier wildlife populations, and resilient ecosystems.
Core Reasons
Cultural Identity: Land is a relative, not a commodity.
Long‑Term Perspective: Decisions consider generations ahead.
Local Knowledge: Generational ecological observations are embedded in daily life.
📊 Statistical Proof: Indigenous Lands & Biodiversity
Statistic
Source (as mentioned in the podcast)
Why It Matters
40 % of Earth’s remaining natural lands are Indigenous territories
Scientific papers cited by Kiliii Yuyan
Shows scale of stewardship
80 % of world’s species live in Indigenous territories
Research from Mexico extrapolated globally
Highlights biodiversity hotspots
Indigenous lands have equal or higher biodiversity than protected parks
Mid‑2010s study
Demonstrates effectiveness without formal protection
Indigenous territories protect 40% of Earth’s land and 80% of species
👀 Two‑Eyed Seeing – Science + Tradition
Two‑eyed seeing = using science as one eye and Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) as the other. This dual perspective creates depth perception in environmental management.
“You gain depth perception, not just two pictures.” – Kiliii Yuyan
Benefits
More accurate wildlife counts (e.g., Inupiat whale census increased from 800 to 8,000)
Integrated climate‑adaptation strategies
Co‑created policies that respect cultural rights
🌍 Indigenous Case Studies Highlighted by Kiliii Yuyan in Guardians of Life
Below are the most compelling stories shared during the podcast:
1. Inupiat Whale Management – Alaska
Problem: 1970s International Whaling Commission claimed only 800 whales existed.
Solution: Inupiat proved counts were off by 10×, secured legal right to manage whales.
Result: Whale population tripled since 2011 while still supporting subsistence hunting.
2. Mongolia’s Shamanic Shrines
Every hilltop & stream has a shrine, integrating spiritual practice with land stewardship.
3. Greenland’s Land‑Ownership Model
No private land ownership → collective use, preventing exploitative mining or exclusive tourism.
4. Komodo Dragons – Indonesia
Indigenous people revere the predators, building limestone pyramids over graves to protect bodies from dragons.
5. Fire Management – Australia & North America
Indigenous fire regimes create mosaic habitats, increasing biodiversity and reducing catastrophic wildfires.
📖 How the Book Was Made – Behind the Scenes
2‑year fieldwork → ≈ 450 days on the ground
7‑8 years of idea incubation: research, grant proposals, and a $20k pandemic fellowship for six months of dedicated prep work
Community collaborators (often called fixers but preferred “primary collaborators”) in every country – they facilitated introductions, logistics, and cultural trust
Grant writing demanded deep “marination” of ideas – Yuyan emphasizes letting concepts simmer before pitching
“Give your ideas time to marinate in the juices of experience.” – Kiliii Yuyan
Takeaway for creators: Patience and genuine community partnership outweigh rapid production.
📸 Actionable Lessons for Photographers & Activists
Focus on Story, Not Gear: Yuyan rarely discusses camera specs; he lets subjects drive the narrative.
Build Trust First: Spend months in community life before shooting.
Collaborate, Not Exploit: Co‑author captions with locals; let them approve text.
Leverage Grants Early: Use fellowships to fund research before you need equipment.
Use Two‑Eyed Seeing: Pair field observations with scientific data for richer storytelling.
Bullet‑point Quick Checklist
☐ Identify a community advocate (a “hub person”)
☐ Secure a small fellowship for research only
☐ Conduct a two‑hour listening session with locals before any photoshoot
☐ Draft captions in partnership with community members
☐ Submit a grant with a clear “why this matters” narrative
🚀 What’s Next for Kiliii Yuyan?
Living with Predators (National Geographic Society grant) – a multi‑year project exploring how Indigenous groups coexist with apex predators such as Komodo dragons and Greenland sharks.
Continued storytelling through TEDx talks, photo essays, and future book chapters extending Guardians of Life.
🔑 Key Takeaways
Indigenous territories protect a disproportionate share of Earth’s biodiversity.
Two‑eyed seeing is a powerful framework for merging science with cultural wisdom.
Community‑first approaches produce authentic, impactful photojournalism.
Long‑term grant planning and “marinating” ideas are essential for large‑scale projects.
Supporting Indigenous sovereignty offers the highest “bang for your buck” in conservation funding.
📚 Further Reading & Resources
Resource
Link
Why Read
Guardians of Life (book)
Exclusive Signed with Print
Deep dive into Indigenous stewardship
Two‑Eyed Seeing Primer
Two-Eyed Seeing TED Talk
Intro to the concept
National Geographic Indigenous Futures Issue
https://www.nationalgeographic.com
Context for editorial challenges
Indigenous Land & Biodiversity Study (Mexico)
Nature reviews statistics
Original source of 80 % statistic
AiPAD Conference – Ansel Adams AI Print Debate
https://www.aipad.com
Insight on modern tech & ethics
📣 Call to Action
If you’re a photographer, writer, or conservation advocate, let Indigenous knowledge guide your next project. Subscribe to the 10 Frames Per Second podcast for more inspiring stories, and check out thumbnails of Guardians of Life from the link here.
Photojournalism, Indigenous stewardship, Conservation, Traditional ecological knowledge, Two‑eyed seeing, Whaling management, Inupiat, National Geographic, Guardians of Life (book), Indigenous sovereignty, Land ownership concepts, Kayak building, Commercial photography, Documentary photography, Ansel Adams controversy, AI colorization, Pandemic fellowship, Grant writing, Indigenous Futures magazine issue, Wildlife management, Fire stewardship, Komodo dragons, Greenland sharks, Māori river rights, Mongolian shamanism, Secularism vs. spirituality, Indigenous territories biodiversity, Cultural compulsion, Collaboration with scientists, Indigenous knowledge preservation, Indigenous conservation case studies.
The post Episode 184: Kiliii Yuyan (Documentary Photography) first appeared on 10FPS A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.
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1h 7min
May 19, 2026Episode 70: Roger May (Documentary Photography)
ARCHIVE EPISODE: This is an archive episode with hosts Joe Giordano and Elena Volkova originally released in 2020.
📸 Seeing Appalachia Through a New Lens: An Inside Look at Roger May’s “Looking at Appalachia” Project
Table of Contents
Who Is Roger May?
Why Appalachia Needs a Fresh Narrative
The “Looking at Appalachia” Project – How It Works
Key Takeaways for Photojournalists & Writers
What’s Next for Roger May & the Project?
Quick FAQ
Take Action – Explore the Collection & Get Involved
Who Is Roger May?
Appalachian‑American photographer based in Charleston, West Virginia.
Born on the Kentucky‑West Virginia border, in the heart of “Hatfield‑McCoy country.”
Work appears in The New York Times, The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, National Geographic and many more.
A single parent who balances a day‑job with his passion for photography, letting him stay intentional about every shot he takes.
“Photography is primarily a tool for listening.” – Roger May (from the podcast)
Why Appalachia Needs a Fresh Narrative
The Problem: One‑Dimensional Media Coverage
Coal‑centric storytelling: National outlets often reduce the region to “coal towns,” “poverty,” or “Trump country.”
Historical lenses: Over‑reliance on legacy images from the 1960s FSA/War‑on‑Poverty era that focus on run‑down homes, broken‑down cars, and “barefoot children.”
Missing the good: Positive developments (e.g., local environmental lobbying, cultural resilience) are rarely highlighted.
Roger’s Perspective
Media laziness and a lack of nuance lead to monolithic narratives.
He believes the region is more than poverty—it’s a place of deep connection to land, culture, and community.
The goal: Showcase the everyday beauty and complexity of Appalachian life, not just its hardships.
The “Looking at Appalachia” Project – How It Works
Step
What Happens
Why It Matters
1️⃣ Call for Submissions
Open Instagram post (Feb 2014) invites anyone to photograph Appalachia in the current calendar year. No restrictions on equipment, experience, or style.
Democratizes the visual narrative; captures diverse voices beyond traditional (mostly white‑male) photographers.
2️⃣ Crowd‑Sourced Collection
Over 3,000 submissions in Year 1; 297 selected for the first archive. Subsequent years maintain an open‑call model.
Builds a living archive that reflects how Appalachia looks today.
3️⃣ Editorial Review
A rotating editorial team (photographers & documentarians) votes on each image.
Ensures quality while keeping the community‑driven spirit.
4️⃣ Online Gallery
Photos sorted by state and county (420 Appalachian counties across 13 states). Click‑through button reveals photographer credit, location, and a link to their personal site.
Makes the collection discoverable and transparent.
5️⃣ Call‑and‑Response
Writers (poets, essayists, journalists) pair with selected images to produce text‑photo dialogues.
Highlights the synergy of image and word, encouraging deeper storytelling.
6️⃣ Exhibitions & Books
Print exhibit scheduled at Piedmont College (GA) & The Juliet Museum (WV); plans for a comprehensive photo book.
Transforms digital content into tangible cultural artifacts.
Quick Stats (as of 2019)
600+ photographs in the archive.
Under‑represented states: Maryland (only 3 counties), New York, Mississippi, Northern Alabama.
Emerging talent highlighted: Matty McGarvey (Ohio), George Etheridge (NY/WNC), Maddie [Last Name] (MD).
Key Takeaways for Photojournalists & Writers
Context Over Clickbait – Editors are increasingly looking for photographers who bring deep knowledge of a place rather than a quick “poverty shot.”
Build Trust, Not Just Access – Long‑term relationships (e.g., returning to the same community) earn deeper, more authentic images.
Embrace Community‑Driven Projects – Crowdsourcing can surface stories you’d otherwise miss and position you as a connector in the media ecosystem.
Balance Media Requests with Personal Vision – Roger keeps a separate day‑job, letting his creative side stay purpose‑driven rather than assignment‑driven.
Use Photography as Listening – A photo is a conversation starter; aim to capture humanity, not just scenery.
What’s Next for Roger May & the Project?
2019 submissions are being finalized and will soon appear on the website.
Print exhibit slated for later this year at:
Piedmont College (North Georgia)
Juliet Museum at the Clay Center (Charleston, WV)
Potential photo book: 50–60 curated images, paired with essays, maps, and community stories.
Technical evolution: Roger is learning to use a 4×5 large‑format camera (film) to slow down his process and capture more intentional images.
“I love books. I love photo books. I’m excited about the possibility of seeing Looking at Appalachia as a printed book someday.” – Roger May
Quick FAQ
Question
Answer
Can anyone submit a photo?
Yes—anyone who takes a picture in the current calendar year within the Appalachian Regional Commission’s 420‑county map can submit.
How are photos credited?
Hover over the small information button on each image to see photographer name, date, location, and a link to their website.
Where can I view the collection?
Visit lookingatappalachia.com → Photographs tab. Images are organized by state → county → contributor.
Is there a fee to submit?
No. Submission is free; the project relies on community volunteers for curation.
How can I support the project?
Share the website, submit your own images, write a response piece, or contact Roger about hosting an exhibit.
Take Action – Explore the Collection & Get Involved
Visit the site – Dive into the visual archive and discover hidden Appalachian stories.
Submit your own work – If you’re in one of the 420 counties, send a photo that reflects your own view of the region.
Write a response – Pair a favorite image with a short poem, essay, or personal anecdote.
Spread the word – Share the project on social media using the hashtag #LookingAtAppalachia.
Attend an exhibit – Keep an eye out for upcoming shows at local universities, museums, or community centers.
Final Thought
Roger May’s “Looking at Appalachia” proves that when a community takes control of its own visual narrative, the result is richer, more humane, and far from the stereotypes that dominate mainstream coverage. Whether you’re a photographer, writer, educator, or simply curious about the region, the project offers a gateway to authentic, nuanced storytelling—one image at a time.
Ready to see Appalachia differently?
👉 Explore the collection now: https://seeingappalachia.org/
Keywords used: Roger May, Looking at Appalachia, Appalachian photography, Appalachian photojournalism, crowdsourced photography project, visual storytelling, Appalachia narrative, Appalachian representation, photo book, large‑format camera, community‑driven photography, media representation of Appalachia.
_________
Appalachia, photojournalism, poverty, coal mining, extractive industry, War on Poverty, FSA, WPA, crowdsourced photography, Looking at Appalachia project, media narrative, national publications, stereotypes, regional identity, community, environmental lobbying, West Virginia, Maryland, 4×5 camera, film photography, photo books, visual storytelling, dialect, accent, “Trump country”, American Dream, capitalism, representation, cultural heritage, rural‑urban divide
The post Episode 70: Roger May (Documentary Photography) first appeared on 10FPS A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.
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1h
April 29, 2026Episode 183: Melissa O’Shaughnessy (Street Photography)
Title:
🎙️ Street Photography Secrets from Melissa O’Shaughnessy

📚 Introduction – Why This Episode Matters
If you’re passionate about street photography, you’ve probably heard of icons like Joel Meyerowitz, Gary Winogrand, or Helen Levitt. In the latest episode of the 10 Frames Per Second podcast (released every Tuesday on 10fps.net), hosts Joe Giordano and Molly Roberts sit down with Melissa O’Shaughnessy, New York‑based street photographer and author of the acclaimed monograph Perfect Strangers.
In this blog post we’ll break down the most valuable take‑aways, packed with actionable tips for beginners, insights on gender dynamics, and her philosophies of optimism and Zen in street photography.
SEO Keywords to watch: street photography, Melissa O’Shaughnessy, Perfect Strangers, 10 Frames Per Second, New York street photographer, street photography tips, street photography book, photography podcast, Joel Meyerowitz, optimism in photography, Zen photography
🎧 Episode Overview (Quick Summary)
Segment
Time (approx.)
What’s Covered
Intro
0:00 – 1:30
Podcast intro, guest bio, book info
Backstory
1:30 – 5:00
Melissa’s late‑blooming journey into photography
Influences
5:00 – 7:30
Joel Meyerowitz, Harry Callahan, Gary Winogrand, etc.
Gender & Street Photography
7:30 – 10:30
Differences (or lack thereof) between men & women
Essential Qualities
10:30 – 13:00
Curiosity, energy, “numbers game”
Tips for Introverts
13:00 – 16:00
Overcoming fear, honesty, “no‑permission” shooting
Optimism & Zen
16:00 – 20:00
Why you need an optimistic mindset & staying present
Book‑Making Process
20:00 – 24:00
Themes, editing, number of images, layout
Post‑COVID Street Life
24:00 – 26:30
How New York changed after the pandemic
Archive & Legacy
26:30 – 30:00
Backup strategy, AI tagging, future plans
Typical Day
30:00 – 33:00
10‑12 mile walks, lighting considerations, social connections
Wrap‑Up
33:00 – End
Final thoughts, thank‑you
📸 Key Take‑aways for Aspiring Street Photographers
1. Start Late, Start Strong
Melissa began serious photography in her 50s after a finance career.
Lesson: Age isn’t a barrier; dedication and consistent practice matter most.
2. Find Your “Why” – The Optimism Factor
Optimism is essential because ≈ 999/1000 shots are “failures”.
Staying hopeful keeps you shooting despite high failure rates.
3. Embrace the “Zen” of the Street
Be present: “Now” is the only moment you have to capture.
Use a ritual (e.g., “press the shutter as soon as you step out”) to get into rhythm.
4. No Permission Needed (But Be Honest)
Melissa rarely asks for permission; she explains her intent when confronted.
A simple compliment and brief explanation diffuse tension.
5. Build a “Numbers Game” Habit
Walk 10‑12 miles a day, shoot consistently.
Treat each outing as a learning session—the more you shoot, the higher the chance of a great image.
6. Leverage Your Unique Perspective
As a mother, grandmother, and woman, Melissa focuses on family dynamics (mothers, daughters, children).
Use your personal life experiences to shape subject matter—don’t copy others.
7. Organize Your Archive Early
Back up triply (local, off‑site, basement).
Keywording is tedious; Melissa hopes AI will soon automate it.
8. Curate a Cohesive Book
Perfect Strangers contains ~ 90 images with recurring themes: wind, families, color, gestures.
Keep the book tight (avoid “washing‑machine” fatigue) – aim for 60‑80 strong images.
🛠️ Practical Tips for Introverted Photographers
Start at a Distance: Begin shooting from a comfortable distance, then gradually move closer.
Use “Honesty” as a Tool: If approached, say, “I’m a street photographer; I love the light on you.”
Do “No‑Permission” Exercises: Practice taking candid shots without asking—this builds confidence.
Remember the “Numbers Game”: Even a day with no usable images is a step forward.
👩‍🎤 Gender Dynamics in Street Photography
Melissa doesn’t want to be labeled simply a “woman street photographer”.
Physical presence matters: At 5’3”, she appears less threatening, allowing her to get close.
Community Support: She notes that male street photographers are generally welcoming, despite being more numerous.
SEO tip: Use phrases like “women street photographers”, “gender differences in street photography”, and “female street photographer perspective” to attract targeted traffic.
📚 The Making of Perfect Strangers
Step
What Melissa Did
Initial Culling
Collected ~700 photos, sorted into A/B/C piles
Theme Identification
Noted recurring motifs: mothers/daughters, wind, color
Editorial Guidance
Worked with editor Denise Wolfe to keep the book under 100 images
Design Choices
Mixed layouts: double spreads, single images, varied sizes
Final Count
91 images total (including intro)
Takeaway: Even without a pre‑planned theme, editorial collaboration can surface natural narratives.
🌆 Post‑COVID Street Life in New York
Crowd dynamics changed: Fewer commuters, more tourists, more athleisure.
Scaffolding is now a city staple: Offers new visual elements for composition.
Cell phones dominate body language: People hold phones against their chest; a fresh gesture to capture.
📂 Managing Your Photographic Archive
Triple Backup: Primary drive → off‑site cloud → physical backup in basement.
Keywording: Use descriptive tags (e.g., “shouldering‑through”, “hand‑to‑mouth”).
Future‑Proofing: Anticipate AI tools for automated tagging.
🗓️ A Typical Day in Melissa’s Shoes
Morning: Leave Union Square around 8:30 am.
Route: Walk south to Chinatown, then up to Lower Manhattan, loop back north.
Mileage: 10‑14 miles of walking, shooting throughout.
Lighting: Adjust schedule based on season (2 pm cutoff in winter, 7 pm in summer).
End of Day: Stops for lunch, optional return to apartment for a quick break.
📢 Call‑to‑Action (CTA)
Ready to start shooting like Melissa?
Subscribe to the 10 Frames Per Second podcast on 10fps.net for more street‑photography insights.
Grab a copy of Perfect Strangers (Aperture, 2020) for visual inspiration.
Join a local street‑photography walk or start a 10‑minute daily walk with your camera.
Share this post on social media—tag @10FramesPerSecond and @MelissaOShaughnessy if you’re inspired!
📚 Further Reading & Resources
Books: A History of Street Photography, Women Street Photographers, Reclaim the Street
Podcasts: 10 Frames Per Second (new episodes every Tuesday)
Online Communities: UP Photographers collective (25 international street photographers)
SEO Checklist (for you)
✅ Primary keyword (“Melissa O’Shaughnessy street photography”) appears in title, first paragraph, and H2.
✅ Secondary keywords (optimism in photography, Zen street photography, how to start street photography) are naturally integrated.
✅ Internal links (suggest linking to previous blog posts about Joel Meyerowitz or street photography basics).
✅ External links (point to Aperture’s page for Perfect Strangers and the 10fps.net podcast homepage).
✅ Alt‑text suggestions for images: “Melissa O’Shaughnessy capturing a mother‑daughter moment in New York City”
Happy shooting, and may your streets be ever full of unexpected moments!
____
street photography, Joel Meyerowitz, darkroom, film photography, black‑and‑white, New York City, “Perfect Strangers” book, Aperture publishing, UP Photographers collective, optimism, zen mindset, camera ergonomics, low shooting angle, gender perspective, mother‑daughter dynamics, “shouldering through” gesture, hand‑to‑mouth gesture, cell‑phone body language, pandemic impact, scaffolding architecture, Instagram influence, AI keywording, archive organization, backup strategy, street‑photography festivals, Instagram reels, travel photography, medium‑format vs 35mm, print size debate, large‑format exhibition prints.
The post Episode 183: Melissa O’Shaughnessy (Street Photography) first appeared on 10FPS A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.
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1h 1min

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