Episode 60 Carl Studna: Revealing the Inner Light [PODCAST]

This favorites episode of the Crank It Up show features and amazing guest, world renowned photographer and spiritual counselor, Carl Studna. Carl’s photos have been featured in some of the most prominent and well known places in mass media. You’ve undoubtedly seen his images but likely didn’t know who took the shot. This conversation with David T.S. Wood is a gem, revealing Carl’s approach to photographing famous people, nature, and those who are camera shy, all for the sake of revealing the light that he believes is inside every part of creation. This conversation is intriguing and takes a few twists you wouldn’t expect, so be sure you set aside the time to listen.

How can a photographer get beyond the mask people erect to capture the real person inside?

If anyone could answer that question with a level of authority it’s Carl Studna. Carl’s images demonstrate that he is a master at getting the essence of a person to shine through so the camera lens can capture it. In this conversation David and Carl chat about the philosophy behind Carl’s photography, how he was drawn onto the path toward becoming a professional photographer in the first place, and how his journey has taught him a lot about people, compassion, inner strength, and the challenge of living life in a world that is sometimes very dark. You’ll want to hear this one!

Why are most people camera shy to some degree?

World famous photographer, Carl Studna, believes that most people are camera shy because they are afraid. Some fear what might lurk inside them, others fear what they know is there. The camera is a lens that has the ability to reach into the deepest recesses of a person and in an unguarded or calm moment, capture the reality of what is there. It’s that revelation that many people fear. But Carl believes that instead of darkness they will find light, if they are brave enough to let it shine. In this conversation he elaborates on this belief and a whole lot more.

How is photography of nature different than photographing people?

Interestingly enough, Carl Studna doesn’t believe the two are that far apart. When taking photos of people he works to get the subject comfortable, relaxed, even jovial at times. This enables them to relax and allow the inner light of their soul to shine through. In nature, the main issue is one of light as well. The lighting of the scene needs to be just right before Carl will click the button on his camera because he knows that the true essence of the scene won’t be visible unless the right shades and colors burst forth. Light is what makes the difference.

Even though there is light inside each of us, darkness comes on all of us.

What do we do then, when pain or desperation or depression crowd out the light. Photographer Carl Studna likens that time to being under the dark storm clouds. But if you could rise up, like an airplane breaking through the storm front, you’d be reminded that above the clouds the sun still shines. He believes it’s the same in your soul. Though you are under a heavy burden, the light of who you are is still there, very present and ready to serve you if you can find it and tap into it. Hear more of Carl’s thoughts on this subject and many more on this episode of Crank It Up.

Outline of this great episode

[1:48] David’s welcome and introduction of his guest, Carl Studna.

[2:27] Carl’s path and how it came about.

[6:22] What’s it like to meet one of your heroes?

[9:17] How Carl unlocks the facades people erect so he can get a great photo of the real person.

[14:37] Why do some photographs radiate genuineness and power and others do not?

[19:13] How is this accomplished with nature photos?

[22:08] Finding the light that is always there – in people and in nature.

[26:56] How can we apply these concepts in every moment of life?

[27:30] The origin for Carl’s book.