The MOOD Podcast

What if photography could capture not just a moment, but the very essence of the soul? 

Troy Freyee is an innovative fashion photographer known for his raw and emotive style. In this new episode, he shares his journey from managing a fashion store to becoming a prominent photographer, diving deep into how he connects with his subjects to capture authentic emotions. 

We discuss the fine line between creativity and burnout and how his background influences his empowering portrayal of women in his work. Troy’s philosophy on photography as an exploration of the soul shines through as he opens up about the challenges of staying grounded while working in such an high-demand field.

What we talk about:

• Merging spontaneity with intentional artistry
• Balancing commercial and personal photography projects
• The impact of mental health in the creative industry
• Tips for introverted photographers to connect with subjects
• Navigating the evolution of fashion photography

Find Troy’s work here:
Website: https://freyeephotography.com/
Instagram: @freyeephoto
________________________________________________________________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.

YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay

Learn with me
https://mattjacobphotography.com/learn

My Online Community
https://academy.mattjacobphotography.com/offers/yvVLzeWu

My Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ay

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

How can photography sustain cultures while leaving a lasting creative impact?

Kevin Mirc is a French-Madagascan photographer known for capturing breathtaking images from some of the world’s most stunning destinations. With a background that combines a love for adventure and storytelling, Kevin’s work reflects his deep connection to nature and culture and his commitment to responsible travel.

In this episode, Kevin shares his creative process, talks about balancing commercial work with personal projects and offers advice to aspiring photographers on how to break into the industry while staying true to your vision. He also discusses the evolution of his style and his views on the future of photography in a world where AI is playing an increasingly significant role.

What you'll learn from it:

• Kevin’s journey to become a professional travel photographer
• The challenges of capturing images around the world
• How social media and AI are impacting the photography industry
• The role photographers play in conservation and sustainability

Find Kevin’s work here:
Website: https://wanderskyy.com/
Instagram: @wanderskyy 
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.

YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay

Learn with me
https://mattjacobphotography.com/learn

My Online Community
https://academy.mattjacobphotography.com/offers/yvVLzeWu

My Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ay

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

In this week's episode, renowned portrait photographer Matthew Jordan Smith reveals his secrets for connecting deeply with his portrait subjects. He discusses his meticulous research and personal interactions that bring out their true selves, offering a behind-the-scenes look at his unique workflow.

Drawing inspiration from mentors like Gordon Parks, Matthew also shares how personal projects and stepping out of comfort zones have revitalised his creativity, providing both inspiration and guidance for navigating the modern photography landscape.

What we talk about:

• How the digital age has reshaped the photography industry
• Why authenticity matters when building your own brand
• The importance of developing a unique personal style
• How to balance creative vision in a social media era

Find Matthew's work here:
Website: https://matthewjordansmith.com/
Instagram: @matthewjordansmith
______________________________________________________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.

YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay

Learn with me
https://mattjacobphotography.com/learn

My Online Community
https://academy.mattjacobphotography.com/offers/yvVLzeWu

My Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ay

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

In this week's episode, Julie Valentina, a young Videographer and Creative Director, shares her remarkable journey through the filmmaking industry. Julie discusses how her experiences as a female filmmaker have shaped her unique perspective and the challenges she has overcome.

We also talk about her transition from modelling to filmmaking, the role of Colder Creative’s contests in her career and the importance of integrating mental wellness practices into her demanding routine.

What we cover:

• Julie's journey in a male-dominated industry
• Julie’s evolution from working with big clients to starting her own agency
• The importance of building your own community
• How to stay true to oneself amid social media pressure
• The role of self development and well-being in the creative industry.

Find Julie's work here:
Instagram: @julievalentina
______________________________________________________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.

YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay

Learn with me
https://mattjacobphotography.com/learn

My Online Community
https://academy.mattjacobphotography.com/offers/yvVLzeWu

My Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ay

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

In this new episode of Moments of Mood, we're taking a break from guest interviews to dive into another rant, by me. Yep, this time it's the incessant topic of the narrow focus we have around photography equipment...

Creativity beats gear, hands down, all the time. No exceptions. Born from a plethora of comments, messages and questions over years posting images, the most common questions I have received is "what camera/lens did you use" or "what settings did you use for this photo"?. I want to put forward why I'm a bit bored of this being the most popular question and why it is perceived so important for beginners in photography. I was that person, so I'm not judging any individual, more the system and societal constructs we (and the big manufacturers) have created around the sector. It detracts from so much potential beauty and creativity. 

Driven by the belief that gear is the key to mastering photography, many photographers today forget that the real magic does not come from expensive equipment, but from the artist's vision, creativity and ability to capture stories. My rant also draws on insights from iconic photographers like Henri Cartier-Bresson or Annie Leibovitz, which are great examples of how understanding light, composition and 'moment' will always beat the technical features of a new camera.

Am I wrong to be fed up with this topic now?

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.

YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay

Learn with me
https://mattjacobphotography.com/learn

My Online Community
https://academy.mattjacobphotography.com/offers/yvVLzeWu

My Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ay

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

Diana Darling is an acclaimed writer and author who has spent over 40 years living in Bali. Her work is deeply influenced by Balinese culture and mythology, blending Eastern and Western perspectives in her art and writing.

During our conversation, Diana shared the inspiration behind her novel 'The Painted Alphabet', where Balinese mythology intertwines with contemporary storytelling, providing unique perspectives on spirituality and death influenced by her experiences in both Western and Asian cultures.

Some other things we discuss were: rituals that surround death in other cultures, the meaning of life and death, how storytelling can transform opinions and inspirations, tips for how to get into writing and navigate the world of publishing and media.

______________________________________________________________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.

YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay

Learn with me
https://mattjacobphotography.com/learn

My Online Community
https://academy.mattjacobphotography.com/offers/yvVLzeWu

My Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ay

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

What if a single moment could redefine your entire career?

In this episode, British-born photographer Phil Penman, known for his compelling street photography in New York, shares how his observational experience and resilience during 9/11 shifted his focus from celebrity photography to more photojournalism-type work, leading him to capture profound and impactful images on the New York's streets.

Known for documenting the raw and unfiltered essence of urban life, Phil's work reflects a deep understanding of the human condition in the beauty of metropolitan environments.

What we discussed:

• How 9-11 transformed Phil's career
• The importance of self-critique and high standards
• Balancing spontaneous and planned shots
• Overcoming creative ruts and leveraging social media
• Finding your own style and being true to one's self.

Find more of Phil's work on his website and Instagram:
Website: www.philpenman.com
Instagram: @philpenman
______________________________________________________________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.

YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay

Learn with me
https://mattjacobphotography.com/learn

My Online Community
https://academy.mattjacobphotography.com/offers/yvVLzeWu

My Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ay

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

Govinda Rumi is a Bali-based photographer, known for his unique approach and ability in capturing authentic and unseen moments.

In this episode, Govinda discusses his photography breakthroughs and shares insights on how to see the unseen and think about the moments no-one else thinks about. He also talks about maintaining a distinctive voice in a crowded digital space and the importance of intention in creating authentic images.

What we discuss:

• Govinda's philosophy of finding beauty in imperfection
• How to transform a picture into a work of art
• Key principles of lighting and composition
• Preserving artistic integrity in the era of social media trends
• Balancing technical skills with marketing strategies

Find Govinda's work here:
Website: https://govindarumi.com
Youtube: @govindarumi
Instagram: @govindarumi
________________________________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.

YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay

Learn with me
https://mattjacobphotography.com/learn

My Online Community
https://academy.mattjacobphotography.com/offers/yvVLzeWu

My Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ay

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

Why would a successful and famous model become a successful and famous photographer?

Peter Hurley is an American photographer who made a remarkable transition from professional sailing and fashion modelling to headshot photography, having photographed some of the most recognised people and images around the world.

What you'll hear about:

• Peter's journey from model to photographer.
• The challenges and successes of working with high-profile clients.
• The importance of personal branding and building strong client relationships.
• How to overcome imposter syndrome.
• Insights on mentoring aspiring photographers.

Peter has gained significant recognition for his ability to capture the essence of his subjects. His unique approach influenced many photographers in the realm of portraiture and allowed him to become an exclusive personality in the industry.

During our conversation, Peter opens up about his early days in photography and the memorable experiences that defined his career, sharing poignant anecdotes about boosting clients' confidence and the significant role of trust in capturing genuine expressions.

Find Peter's work here:
Website: https://peterhurley.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@peter_hurley
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peter_hurley/
________________________________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.

YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay

Learn with me
https://mattjacobphotography.com/learn

My Online Community
https://academy.mattjacobphotography.com/offers/yvVLzeWu

My Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ay

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

• The power of self-reflection in personal and professional growth.
• The liberating potential of YouTube as a platform for personal expression.
• Key insights into pursuing your passions and succeeding in the world of content creation.
• How to create art that stands the test of time.

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.

YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay

Learn with me
https://mattjacobphotography.com/learn

My Online Community
https://academy.mattjacobphotography.com/offers/yvVLzeWu

My Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ay

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co