January 22, 2024

353: Steve Gettle - Voice Vision and Style in Wildlife Photography

1 hour 11 minutes

In this conversation, Matt Payne interviews Steve Gettle, a nature photographer, about his photography journey and the challenges of monetizing photography. They discuss the process of finding a unique photographic voice and the balance between emulation and inspiration. They also explore the impact of social media on the photography industry and the changing landscape of making a living as a nature photographer. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the future of workshops and photo tours. The conversation covers topics such as the demographic shift and its impact on the landscape of photography, changing learning methods, the value of workshops and photo tours, the importance of critiques, the decline of camera clubs, traveling as a wildlife photographer, creating a nature photography paradise, and the debate around digital manipulation of nature photography.

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Links

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Here is who Steve Recommended for the Podcast

Tom Mangelsen.

Marsel Van Oosten.

Takeaways

Finding a unique photographic voice takes time and requires putting in the hours to develop skills and a portfolio.

Emulation of other photographers' work can be a valuable learning tool, but it's important to find one's own style and put a unique spin on images.

Social media can be a double-edged sword, providing validation and exposure but also creating a gap between public perception and experienced photographers' opinions.

Monetizing photography in today's digital age requires a diverse set of skills, including marketing, business acumen, and teaching abilities.

Workshops and photo tours continue to be popular, but the market is becoming more competitive as more photographers enter the industry. The demographic shift, particularly the aging population, will impact the landscape of photography and who is able and willing to participate in trips and workshops.

The way people learn photography has changed, with a shift towards online tutorials and self-teaching through platforms like YouTube.

Camera clubs, once a valuable source of education and critique, are declining in popularity, and the younger generation is less likely to participate in them.

Traveling as a wildlife photographer requires careful planning and consideration of logistics, including gear transportation.

Creating a nature photography paradise in one's backyard can provide opportunities for portfolio-worthy images and a deeper connection with nature.

The debate around digital manipulation of nature photography centers on the importance of honesty and transparency in representing the natural world.

Critiques and feedback are essential for growth and improvement in photography, but the way they are delivered should be constructive and respectful.

The public's perception of photography is often based on the perceived honesty of the medium, and photographers should strive to maintain that trust.

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By Matt Payne

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