In this episode, we look at the intricate balance between the technical aspects and emotional resonance in creative works. We discuss how an excessive focus on technical details can sometimes overshadow the emotional connection, which is essential for a meaningful audience experience.

We discuss how a preoccupation with technical perfection can lead to a disregard for the narrative and emotional truth of a piece. Furthermore, we also share experiences that explore how different people can have diverse preferences and perceptions when it comes to art and storytelling.

Concluding with a strong advocacy for authenticity, the episode emphasizes the importance of storytelling and emotional engagement in creative endeavors. This in-depth exploration provides valuable insights for artists, filmmakers, photographers, and creatives in general, emphasizing that while technical skills are crucial, you should always be in service of the narrative and emotional truth of the work. -Ai

Double Indemnity - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Double_Indemnity

Martin Scorsese on Comic Book Movies - https://bit.ly/47It05m

Rushmore - “Unlock it!” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6jYV4eZ1v0

The Gap by Ira Glass - https://vimeo.com/85040589

Alex’s 16mm Project - https://www.alexccarter.com/motion-picture/revlon-16mm-film

John Mayer Video - https://youtu.be/_eWrQzNJgC8?si=uTaSRUTJh5_Fg7lr

Scorsese & Casino - https://youtu.be/2BFHDK_u62M?t=1158

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Links To Everything:

Video Version of The Podcast: https://geni.us/StudioSessionsYT

Matt’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/MatthewOBrienYT

Matt’s 2nd Channel: https://geni.us/PhotoVideosYT

Alex’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/AlexCarterYT

Matt’s Instagram: https://geni.us/MatthewIG

Alex’s Instagram: https://geni.us/AlexIG

We examine the abundance of ideas sprouting from unexpected places. With insights gleaned from personal endeavors, we try to peel back the layers of the creative process, shining a light on the forces of ego, surrender, and the art of collaboration that propel our work forward.

Throughout this exploration, we emphasize the significance of capturing every thought, acknowledging that brilliance often lies within the most unassuming ideas.

As we round out our discussion, the dance between artistic integrity and commercial success takes center stage. We navigate the delicate balance between these two often-competing forces, sharing our personal approach to cataloging ideas and the transformative process of valuing passion over profitability.

The episode culminates with a grounding reminder of how, amidst our philosophical musings, real-life responsibilities beckon—unscripted interruptions that anchor us back to the present. So, join us as we weave through the intricate tapestry of creation, seeking to strike that harmonious chord between our dreams and the pragmatic world we navigate daily. - Ai

Show Notes:
The Century of the Self - https://bit.ly/48IPbcy
The Louisiana Channel - https://bit.ly/48IPm7I
The New Yorker - https://www.newyorker.com/
The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin - https://bit.ly/3uWDvEp
Moleskin -

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Links To Everything:

Video Version of The Podcast: https://geni.us/StudioSessionsYT

Matt’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/MatthewOBrienYT

Matt’s 2nd Channel: https://geni.us/PhotoVideosYT

Alex’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/AlexCarterYT

Matt’s Instagram: https://geni.us/MatthewIG

Alex’s Instagram: https://geni.us/AlexIG

We're not just here to share our journey, we're also on a mission. We aim to build a community of like-minded individuals, a space where authentic conversations spark creativity and inspiration. Our dialogues energize us, and we want to pass that energy onto you, our listeners. The podcast serves as a platform to document our thoughts and inspire others with them. So, let's navigate this exciting path of creating, sharing, and growing together.

In the realm of creativity, we're constantly stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing the ever-changing flux of ideas. From spontaneous trips that have led to unforgettable moments, to the thrill of unplanned adventures, we're constantly seeking inspiration from the world around us. We discuss the magic of surrendering to chaos, exploring new perspectives, and finding inspiration in the everyday. So, hop in for this thrilling ride as we navigate through chaos, find beauty in the unexpected, and cherish the extraordinary in the ordinary. Join us as we embark on this creative journey, filled with spontaneity, unexpected twists, and precious memories.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Links To Everything:

Video Version of The Podcast: https://geni.us/StudioSessionsYT

Matt’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/MatthewOBrienYT

Matt’s 2nd Channel: https://geni.us/PhotoVideosYT

Alex’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/AlexCarterYT

Matt’s Instagram: https://geni.us/MatthewIG

Alex’s Instagram: https://geni.us/AlexIG

Ever wonder what it truly means to embark on a creative journey? Do the fears and insecurities that often masquerade as a need for 'optimal conditions' sound familiar to you? This podcast episode is an open exploration into the labyrinth of creativity, where we unpack personal experiences of struggling to find the right time to launch our passion projects, and the psychological barriers that hold us back. We challenge the traditional linear ranking of artists, discuss how it stifles creativity, and share personal narratives about overcoming our fears and insecurities. 

There's a raw, unfiltered discussion about the motivations behind creating art, how pure intentions can often get muddled, and how external factors like financial security can influence the drive to create. We take personal anecdotes from our own lives, and even draw examples from the life of Kurt Cobain, to discuss the concept of compulsion in art, asking ourselves: Can financial security hinder an artist's drive to create? We share insights on how art can be therapeutic, the importance of detachment from the outcome, and the transformative potential of meaningful projects. 

We round off this episode by sharing tips and strategies to push through discomfort and take the first step of your creative journey. Hear us talk about overcoming doubts, embracing compulsion, and letting go of preconceived expectations. We share stories of inspiration, the power of productive conversations, and the importance of starting small and letting ideas flow freely. This is not just about creating art; it's a journey of self-discovery, growth, and finding your unique voice in a world that often seeks to mold us into something we're not. So come along, let's explore, let's create, and let's conquer our fears together.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Show Notes:

The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin - https://sites.prh.com/thecreativeact

Henry Miller book - title coming soon

Townes Van Zandt - https://townesvanzandt.com/

Kurt Cobain Books - https://bit.ly/41i1mdD

Jean-Michel Basquiat - https://www.basquiat.com/

Stutz - https://www.netflix.com/title/81387962

Teo Crawford Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWf395XFeGA

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Links To Everything:

Video Version of The Podcast: https://geni.us/StudioSessionsYT

Matt’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/MatthewOBrienYT

Matt’s 2nd Channel: https://geni.us/PhotoVideosYT

Alex’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/AlexCarterYT

Matt’s Instagram: https://geni.us/MatthewIG

Alex’s Instagram: https://geni.us/AlexIG

The digital revolution has forged a new era, and we're all in the thick of it. But have you ever considered the profound impact this shift from analog to digital has had on our perceptions of legitimacy and the way we document our lives? We explore this intriguing question, reflecting on experiences from our own lives, from handwriting in fourth-grade journals to modern Mac operating systems. We also express our nostalgia for the analog days of Starlog magazine and disposable cameras.

As photographers, we deeply understand the challenges and joys of film photography. We dive into the difficulties of finding a reliable local lab for processing and debate the impact of technology on the art. We also investigate how the digital world has altered our approach to creating content and our experience of the world. Join us as we dissect the delicate balance between documenting for content and experiencing the world as it is.

Finally, we delve into the increasing desire for analog experiences in the digital age, comparing various cameras and exploring technologies like the digital bolex. We also reflect on the power of reconnecting with nature and the importance of digital detox. We discuss the impact of our phone addiction and how our sense of self can become inflated in the digital world. Join us on this enlightening journey as we explore the intricacies of the digital world and its impact on our lives. 

Remember, this is more than a conversation about cameras and technology—it's about how we perceive and interact with the world around us. So, tune in and let's explore the digital world together. - Ai

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Links To Everything:

Video Version of The Podcast: https://geni.us/StudioSessionsYT

Matt’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/MatthewOBrienYT

Matt’s 2nd Channel: https://geni.us/PhotoVideosYT

Alex’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/AlexCarterYT

Matt’s Instagram: https://geni.us/MatthewIG

Alex’s Instagram: https://geni.us/AlexIG

Ever wondered how the evolution of photography and new media has shaped the way we view and appreciate art? Stimulate your curiosity as we traverse the fascinating journey of showcasing art- from classic galleries to the digital realm. We unwrap the potential of YouTube as a platform for artists to exhibit their work, the challenges of marrying different media forms, and the art of turning a chaotic home into a creative masterpiece. We also touch upon the importance of being content with your work, whether it gets released or not.

Struggling to juggle work and your creative passions? You're not alone. We share our personal experiences and insights about managing professional commitments and large creative projects like documentaries. Drawing inspiration from Steven Pressfield's 'The War of Art', we discuss the resistance to initiating big projects and the constant pressure of achieving. As we peel back the layers, we realize that the real joy lies in relishing the process rather than solely focusing on the end result.

Finally, we tread the complex waters of self-fulfillment and success. We look at the constant urge to achieve, the trap of 'retail therapy', and the strain of tying self-worth to creative success. We shed light on our personal experiences and explore the importance of finding purpose beyond material success. Embracing the present, controlling what we can, and finding solace in creative outlets like photography- all while separating our ego from our art- are key to our well-being. So, join us on this introspective journey as we delve into the nuances of art, creativity, and self-fulfillment. - Ai

Show Notes:
Joel Meyerowitz - https://www.joelmeyerowitz.com
La Jetée (1963) - https://www.criterion.com/films/329-l...
Ken Burns - https://www.pbs.org/kenburns/
Matt was wrong about the Ricoh camera he owns. It's the Ricoh GR Digital II -

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Links To Everything:

Video Version of The Podcast: https://geni.us/StudioSessionsYT

Matt’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/MatthewOBrienYT

Matt’s 2nd Channel: https://geni.us/PhotoVideosYT

Alex’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/AlexCarterYT

Matt’s Instagram: https://geni.us/MatthewIG

Alex’s Instagram: https://geni.us/AlexIG

Are you stuck in the cycle of scaling your creative work, but feel like you're compromising on quality? Fear not, we've all been there. This episode is a vibrant exploration of the paradox of wanting to grow without losing the essence of our work. We discuss the allure of 'plasticifying' our endeavors – making them more appealing to the masses – and how we can safeguard our creative integrity. Ever felt trapped in the realm of complexity? It's an alluring place, but sometimes, simplicity delivers elegance and authenticity. We discuss how overcomplicating our lives with material possessions can distract us from what truly matters. Using the example of a movie remake simplified for a mass audience, we delve into the potential drawbacks of plasticity in our creative processes. We’ll also address the challenge of balancing artistic vision with commercial goals, a common quandary for creators. We round up the conversation with a dive into live streaming and its value, especially when compared to traditional newsletters. The spontaneity and real-time connection that come with live streaming can catalyze a unique bond with the audience. Lastly, we discuss the joy of handcrafting unique experiences, embracing minimalism, and reducing complexities. Join us for this enlightening conversation and learn how simplifying your life can sometimes lead to more success. - Ai 

Alex referenced a movie called "THE FOLLOWING" during our conversation, and he meant to say "THE VANISHING" - link below. 

Show Notes:

The Graduate: https://www.criterion.com/films/28578-the-graduate

Travels with Charley in Search of America by John Steinbeck: https://www.theatlantic.com/past/docs/unbound/classrev/charley.htm

The Vanishing (1993): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Vanishing_(1993_film)

The Vanishing (1988): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Vanishing_(1988_film) 

Coca-Cola Buys Topo Chico: https://bit.ly/45UR0B6

Fake Plastic Trees by Radiohead: https://youtu.be/n5h0qHwNrHk?si=0vXqkBPG_VRKxQ2U

Van Neistat GoPro Video: https://youtu.be/tPv83XxkrWo?si=VddLvDGgzCsBtw8i

Willem Verbeek Canada Road Trip Video: https://youtu.be/I6ESg2Fdtn4?si=oULCDAZ3YPf3HHQ-

Seinfeld Episode with John Cheever’s Letters: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyT3jlANQ_Q

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Links To Everything:

Video Version of The Podcast: https://geni.us/StudioSessionsYT

Matt’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/MatthewOBrienYT

Matt’s 2nd Channel: https://geni.us/PhotoVideosYT

Alex’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/AlexCarterYT

Matt’s Instagram: https://geni.us/MatthewIG

Alex’s Instagram: https://geni.us/AlexIG

Have you ever wondered how a title can curate your perception of a photograph? Well, buckle up! We're about to take you on a rollercoaster ride through the fascinating world of creative work titling. We exchange views on the process of naming work, the impact of specific words, and how titling can be a bridge between your current skill level and where you aspire to be. If you've ever grappled with the challenge of giving a name to your creative output, our musings on this topic might just shed some light. 

In the second act of our conversation, we move into the deep waters of art interpretation. We explore the notion of stepping back as artists and allowing viewers to find their own meaning, rather than spoon-feeding them a pre-determined explanation. Drawing from personal anecdotes of museum and gallery visits, we put forth the idea that an artist's interpretation can sometimes overshadow and limit the viewers' experience. 

We wrap up our conversation by delving into the challenge of crafting a title that resonates with truth while not limiting the visual metaphors it conveys. We stress the importance of clear and effective storytelling, even playing a fun exercise of titling our own podcast episode. So, if you're an artist, a creator, or simply an art enthusiast, this episode is packed with insightful discussions on the art and power of titling. Tune in and join our spirited exchange of thoughts! - ai

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Show Notes:

Sunny Sixteen Podcast: https://bit.ly/46rFG0y

William Eggleston - The Democratic Forest: https://bit.ly/3rMNdYE

William Eggleston’s Guide: https://bit.ly/3LUHXZS
Joel Meyerowitz - Cape Light: https://www.joelmeyerowitz.com/cape-light

Joel Meyerowitz - Aftermath: https://www.joelmeyerowitz.com/aftermath

Matthew’s “Lone Surfer” photo: https://bit.ly/408stYl

Jackson Street Booksellers (used book store in Omaha): https://bit.ly/3PR10p3

Alex’s Photo Project “The Gates of the Garden”: https://www.alexccarter.com/photography/gotg

Paper Moon: https://bit.ly/45udyZs

Gregory Crewdson: http://www.gregorycrewdsonmovie.com/

Walt Whitman’s Poetry: https://whitmanarchive.org/

Alone Together by Aristotle Roufanis: https://aristotle.photography/

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep by Philip K. Dick: https://bit.ly/3

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Links To Everything:

Video Version of The Podcast: https://geni.us/StudioSessionsYT

Matt’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/MatthewOBrienYT

Matt’s 2nd Channel: https://geni.us/PhotoVideosYT

Alex’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/AlexCarterYT

Matt’s Instagram: https://geni.us/MatthewIG

Alex’s Instagram: https://geni.us/AlexIG

Ever feel torn between creating the perfect masterpiece and the urgency to release your work into the world? Allow us to guide you through this dilemma. In our deep conversation, we grapple with this delicate balance, stress the significance of understanding our own motivations, and address the pressure to 'level up' in life that intensifies as we age.

As creators, we often walk a tightrope between the necessity to earn and the desire to create meaningful work that resonates with our audience. We share our thoughts on the importance of community among creators and the correct mindset. We also spare a moment to reflect on the reality of our daily lives and the crucial need to make wise decisions with our time and resources.

Lastly, we delve into the realm of letting go – the power of being present, surrendering to the flow of ideas, and the concept of 'controlling the stack'. Listen to our unique discussion about exploring 'controlling the stack' in work and finances, the potential value of conversational podcasting, and knowing when to stop refining and finally release your work. Join us for this journey of self-discovery, wisdom, and creativity. -Ai
If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Show Notes:

It's a Wonderful Life - https://bit.ly/3PFHThF
Matt's FilmConvert Video -    • Comparing 16mm Film 🎥 to Video 📹 | Is... 
The Toymaker -    • Short Documentary | THE TOYMAKER | Ba... 
General Dodge - https://vimeo.com/622537380?share=copy
Oppenheimer Medium Format Black & White Film -    • Oppenheimer: Shot On Kodak Film 
Mr. Destiny - https://bit.ly/3PNfuGK
Mr. Beast's Interview with Colin & Samir -

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Links To Everything:

Video Version of The Podcast: https://geni.us/StudioSessionsYT

Matt’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/MatthewOBrienYT

Matt’s 2nd Channel: https://geni.us/PhotoVideosYT

Alex’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/AlexCarterYT

Matt’s Instagram: https://geni.us/MatthewIG

Alex’s Instagram: https://geni.us/AlexIG

Are you navigating the crossroads of art and commerce? Today's episode promises a compelling exploration of this fascinating landscape. We're peeling back the layers of VidSummit, an annual content creator YouTube conference, and taking a critical look at the allure of vanity metrics in the creative process. Is it possible to make content that genuinely resonates, or are we just chasing views and subscribers?

We're also looking at the societal pressures we all face. We're discussing how self-awareness can be our compass, helping us to steer clear of these external pressures. And, because we're all human, we'll discuss the potential for failure, even when we're putting everything we have into our work.

As we wind down our conversations, we're delving into the delicate balance of art and commerce. We'll examine the psychology of fame and how it can impact artists. We'll discover the power of long-form conversations and how they can unearth new ideas. And, importantly, we'll explore the challenges of maintaining core values, holding ourselves accountable, and making successful commitments. - Ai

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider liking, commenting and subscribing. Thanks for listening/watching, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Show Notes:
VidSummit - https://www.vidsummit.com
Killing Them Softly - https://bit.ly/3PLldxZ
The Wolf of Wall Street - https://bit.ly/3PwyuJs
Patagonia - https://www.patagonia.com
The Founder -

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider giving us a rating and/or a review. We read and appreciate all of them. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you in the next episode.

Links To Everything:

Video Version of The Podcast: https://geni.us/StudioSessionsYT

Matt’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/MatthewOBrienYT

Matt’s 2nd Channel: https://geni.us/PhotoVideosYT

Alex’s YouTube Channel: https://geni.us/AlexCarterYT

Matt’s Instagram: https://geni.us/MatthewIG

Alex’s Instagram: https://geni.us/AlexIG