#363 Michael Collins is a member of the Beginner Photography Podcast Community and today shares his photography journey from picking up a camera to capturing amazing wildlife and birds in flight!

THE BIG IDEAS

• Start Before You’re Ready: Don’t wait for mastery to begin—dive in, learn as you go, and let early mistakes fuel your progress.
• Embrace Community Support: Surrounding yourself with an encouraging group accelerates learning and makes photography more fulfilling.
• Stay Curious and Experiment: Trying different modes, settings, and approaches leads to breakthroughs and deeper camera understanding.
• Celebrate Process Over Perfection: Every image, even imperfect ones, brings valuable experience. Share your growth, not just your best shots.

Resources:

• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Group!
• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#362 In today's episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, Casey Fatchett shares tips on how to be a bad wedding photographer. He talks about some of his own photography mistakes, such as his flash going out mid-wedding and his camera dying the day before a wedding he was scheduled to shoot. He also offers advice on what photographers can do to ruin a couple's wedding day.

Casey Fatchett hosts The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, an informative, entertaining, and irreverent look at the photo industry. Casey brings his more than twenty years of professional photography experience, primarily as a wedding photographer, to every episode.

Casey is lactose intolerant, loves talking about himself in the third person, and can be found making his wife laugh or hiking with his dog when not creating images for his clients.

THE BIG IDEAS

• Preparation Over Perfection: True professionalism means always having backup gear and being ready for surprises. Being prepared matters more than flawless images.
• Collaboration Over Ego: Your artistic vision is important, but collaborating and listening to clients’ preferences ensures you deliver photos they value.
• Adaptability Fuels Growth: When things inevitably go wrong—like equipment failure or missed moments—adapt, improvise, and learn to turn challenges into growth.
• Resilience Is Key: Mistakes will happen, but your ability to own them, recover, and improve builds trust and credibility for your future work.

Resources:

• Listen to the Nerdy Photographer Podcast
• New York Wedding Photographer Casey Fatchett’s website
• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community
• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today
• Free Lightroom Presets!

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#361 Anna Harvingston is an Erie PA based documentary family photographer. Anna gets into her journey beginning with basics of photography like camera settings, taking portraits of her children, and how she experienced the difficult challenge of learning photography. She also talks about getting picked as one of the eight photographers chosen for Hulu's new photography competition show, Exposure.

THE BIG IDEAS

• Trust Your Instincts: Following your gut can help you capture images that are meaningful and authentic—even under pressure or when conditions aren’t perfect.
• Embrace Imperfection and Progress: Photography is a journey with ups and downs. Each “flawed” photo is a step forward in your creative growth.
• Moments Matter More Than Settings: Don’t miss special memories by fixating on perfect settings. Make sure you document real life, even if it’s with your phone.
• Stay Intentional, Not Overwhelmed: Focus on what draws you to a scene. Keep your intent clear so each shot has a purpose, not just technical perfection.

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#360 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, we continue the ten-part Photography Manifesto series by tackling the third rule:
Moment matters most in photography, not camera settings.
I encourage you to focus on capturing life's moments and define a moment as subject matter, timing, and composition. I also share the 3 step process to capturing better moments. I provides examples of moments and emphasizes that photography should capture life as it happens.

THE BIG IDEAS

• Moment Over Mechanics: The essence of a great photograph is the moment it captures, not the technical settings behind it.
• Photography Is Personal: The best shots have meaning for you or your subject—not just for viewers online.
• Visualization Drives Results: Pre-visualizing what you want to capture helps you notice and anticipate exceptional moments.
• Patience Pays Off: Being willing to observe and wait often results in the most compelling, story-rich images.

Resources:

• Listen to the full Photography Manifesto Episode, BPP 334
• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community
• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today
• Free Lightroom Presets!

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#359 In Today's Episode of the podcast I chat with...

Headshot Photographer Gary Huges, who shares actionable strategies for maintaining profitability in your photography business, from client acquisition to managing job costs. You will discover how to align your business practices with your passion for photography, ensuring a sustainable and fulfilling career path.

What You'll Learn:

1. Profitability Focus
2. : Learn why taking unprofitable jobs harms your business and how maintaining a profitable portfolio is crucial.
3. Client Acquisition
4. : Gain insights into effective marketing and client acquisition strategies that align with your budget requirements.
5. Mindset Shift
6. : Understand the importance of thinking like a businessperson and prioritizing sustainable business practices over artistic sentiments.
7. Networking Opportunities
8. : Discover the benefits of engaging with local business communities, like the Chamber of Commerce, to generate new leads.

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#358 On this episode of The Beginner Photography Podcast, the importance of ethical decision-making in photography is explored. Host Raymond Hatfield and guest Savannah Dodd delve into the personal and contextual factors that contribute to ethical decision making, and the impact of sharing a photograph. They discuss the lack of clear-cut ethical guidelines and provide tips for cultivating ethical decision-making skills. Savannah shares her personal experience navigating ethical challenges working with a charity in Uganda and gives advice on photographing ethical subjects. The episode concludes with a challenge for listeners to create their own photographer's statement of ethics.

Savannah Dodd is a passionate photographer who believes in the immense power of photography for good. With her camera, she strives to shape how others see the world in a responsible and conscious way. Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to be more mindful of their power and use it to create a better world.

THE BIG IDEAS

• Consider Intentions: Before taking a photograph, ask yourself why you want to capture the image and what message you want to convey.
• Question Assumptions: Challenge stereotypes and avoid using individuals as props in your photographs.
• Awareness and Responsibility: Understand the power of photography and the impact your images can have on others.
• Ethical Decision-Making: Recognize that ethical choices in photography are highly personal and context-dependent.

Resources:

• Create your own Statement of Ethics
• Check out the Photo Ethics Center and listen to the podcast!
• Savannah’s Photography Website
• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community
• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today
• Free Lightroom Presets!

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#357 You have photo questions, I want to answer them for you here on the show.

Whenever you have a question about photography, day or night, 24 hours a day 7 days a week, head to https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa , and send me your questions.

After shooting for more than a decade and interviewing 300+ world class photographers, its time to share some of that practical information with you!

THE BIG IDEAS

• Quality Over Speed Wins: Focusing on craftsmanship and genuine client connection ensures your work will stand apart, even in a world of instant digital creation.
• Safe Communities Fuel Growth: Seeking out or contributing to positive, supportive photography groups helps foster learning, creativity, and confidence without fear of harsh judgment.
• Adaptability Encourages Longevity: Being open to change—be it new technology or legal best practices—keeps your creativity and career resilient in an evolving industry.
• Clarity Builds Trust: Clear communication, especially around expectations and contracts, protects both you and your clients, leading to better outcomes and relationships.

Todays Photography Questions:

• Will AI replace the role of a photographer
• Do I need photo contracts before shooting?
• Do I need photo contracts when shooting street photography?
• Whats better, Photoshop or Lightroom?
• Can you make it as a photographer without learning Photoshop?
• What the best camera under $2000 to photograph wildlife
• What is the best lens for wildlife photography?
• What Im shooting now that Im not focused on Weddings

Resources:

• Ask your photography questions to get answered on the show!
• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community
• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today
• Free Lightroom Presets!

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

This podcast follows Harry Skeggs, a fine art wildlife photographer, to discuss the impact and importance of photography in preserving the world. He motivates listeners to take a tool in their hands to influence the world and bring awareness to issues near and far. He shares his story of not knowing the value of photography until he was forced to have time for himself due to an accident, and ended up winning runner-up in a Nat Geo Photography of the Year competition.

The Big Ideas with Timestamps

• 00:03:09 Learn art to take better photos.
• 00:11:43 Animals are family members.
• 00:13:39 Follow your passion.
• 00:22:52 Tell a story before taking photos.
• 00:27:00 Protect animals we love.
• 00:30:06 Wildlife conservation is essential.
• 00:39:03 Make mistakes to improve photography.
• 00:43:15 Be the change you want.

Resources:

• Fine Art Wildlife Photographer Harry Skegg’s website
• Follow Harry on Instagram
• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community
• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today
• Free Lightroom Presets!

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#355 On this episode, I interview photographer and educator Heather Lahtinen about how to tackle the feelings of overwhelm that come with learning photography. Heather explains how she became an unintentional wedding photographer and eventually made the transition to going full-time.

THE BIG IDEAS

• Overwhelm Is a Choice: Feeling overwhelmed is normal, but it’s often a self-imposed barrier. Flip the narrative—view challenges as exciting adventures, not obstacles.
• Progress Over Perfection: You don’t have to be the best from the start. Commit to improving just a little each week and focus on your journey, not comparison.
• Action Beats Fear: Waiting until you’re “ready” and free of doubt will only hold you back. Growth comes from shooting, learning, and saying yes before you’re comfortable.
• Your Value Goes Beyond Gear: Clients value the connection and experience you offer, not just technical perfection. Confidence and authenticity resonate more than perfect images.

Resources:

• The Flourish Academy
• The Flourish Academy on Instagram
• Flourish Academy Episode 73: How to deal with imposter syndrome
• Heathers Free Pricing guide for photographers
• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community
• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today
• Free Lightroom Presets!

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

On this episode of the Beginner Photography Podcast, host Raymond Hatfield interviews Anja Poehlmann, a documentary family life photographer. They discuss how shooting every day can affect both creativity and personality. Anja also shares how digital cameras have made shooting easier since she moved to Hawaii for a 6-month internship. She created a website as a way to document her life in her new home and was inspired to start shooting photography as a career.

The Big Ideas with Timestamps

• 00:01:04 Embrace all forms of creativity.
• 00:10:10 Light is key to photography.
• 00:16:08 Authentic family photography is key.
• 00:17:13 Capture real family moments.
• 00:26:00 Tell meaningful stories through photos.
• 00:30:11 Capture meaningful moments.
• 00:35:05 Just get started!
• 00:43:36 Embrace imperfection and experiment.
• 00:48:27 Interact with strangers confidently.
• 00:54:45 Make art, not money.

Resources:

• Brighton Family Photographer Anja Poehlmann’s website 
• Follow Anja on Instagram
• Join The Beginner Photography Podcast Facebook Community
• Sign up for your free CloudSpot account to deliver beautiful images galleries today
• Free Lightroom Presets!

Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.com

Connect with Raymond!

• Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group
• Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa
• Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/

Thanks for listening & keep shooting!