“When Was the Last Time a Photo Meant Something to You?”

What if photography wasn’t just about what you see — but about what you feel?

In this episode of Moments of Mood - each episode now released every other week in between guest episodes - I share a deeply personal story that reshaped the way I saw photography forever. 

What this short episode covers:

• The difference between photos that look good and photos that mean something, and whether that's even important
• A life-changing moment with a young girl in Uganda
• Why the context around the frame matters as much as the frame itself
• How to shoot with deeper intention and connection
• A powerful challenge to rekindle your photographic voice

Take the challenge:

In the next 48 hours, take one photo that matters to you — and reflect on why. That’s how we shift from taking pictures to creating something that truly lasts.

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 Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

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

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

“What are you passionate about outside of photography?”

Two years after appearing as the first-ever guest on The MOOD Podcast, cultural photographer Cam Vaughne returns for a full-circle conversation that’s both deeply personal and universally relevant. Known for his culturally sensitive storytelling and ability to capture the essence of life in Bali and beyond, Cam has undergone significant transformation—both creatively and personally—since his first appearance. Cam opens up about how trauma, community, and a return to simplicity reshaped his photography. What follows is an honest, raw, and inspiring conversation about using your lens to document change—both in the world and in yourself.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How personal hardship can reconnect you with your creative roots
• Why returning to shooting “just for fun” can reignite your passion
• The impact of over-tourism and construction on local culture 
• The power of community and storytelling in healing and rediscovery
• Finding your unique voice by following what interests you outside of photography
• Why it’s okay to step away from social media—and how to grow without it
• Letting go of perfection: why raw moments trump curated shots
• The importance of staying true to your art and ignoring the noise

Find Cam Vaughne's work on his channels:
Instagram: @camvaughne

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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 Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

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yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

Is photography education today more about selling than actually teaching? 

Are we losing the art of problem-solving in the pursuit of easy answers?

Joe Edelman, an award-winning photographer, educator, and mentor, has spent over six decades shaping the industry. From his early days as a newspaper photojournalist to pioneering creative fashion and portrait photography, Joe’s passion lies in helping photographers master not just the technical, but the artistic and emotional depths of photography.

What we discussed:

• The biggest lie in photography education today
• Why photographers should focus on the why before the how
• How social media has fueled a “banger mentality” that kills creativity
• The real difference between amateur and professional photographers
• Why AI and technology won’t replace great photographers—but bad ones
• The truth about photography rules (and why most should be ignored)
• How to develop a photography career in today’s saturated market
• Why “Don’t be afraid to suck” is the best advice for any photographer
• The role of mentorship and why great photographers don’t always make great teachers
• What Joe would do if he were starting his career today

Find Joe Edelman's work on his channels:
Website: www.joeedelman.com
Instagram: @joeedelman
You Tube: @theJoeEdelman

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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 Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

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

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

Richard Corman has spent over four decades photographing some of the most iconic figures in history, from Madonna and Nelson Mandela to Philip Seymour Hoffman and Muhammad Ali. Trained under the legendary Richard Avedon, his portraits are known for their raw emotion, authenticity, and storytelling depth. In this episode, we learn about Richard's extraordinary journey, exploring how he connects with his subjects and captures moments that stand the test of time.

What we discussed:

• The importance of curiosity and human connection in portrait photography.
• Richard’s early career and how photography ‘found’ him.
• Lessons from apprenticing with Richard Avedon.
• The evolution of photography from analog to digital and its impact on creativity
• Behind-the-scenes stories of photographing Madonna, Basquiat, Muhammad Ali, and more.
• The difference between ‘good’ and ‘great’ photography.
• The experience of capturing Nelson Mandela in his prison cell.
• Transitioning from commerical photography to the fine art world. 
• Why mentorship and apprenticeship are crucial in today’s photography industry.
• Advice for aspiring photographers on developing a unique style and career longevity.
• His ongoing documentary project on transgender individuals in the military. 

Find Richard Cormon's work on his channels:
Website: www.richardcorman.com
Instagram: @richardcorman

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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 Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
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yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

"Life leaves marks etched within us" - how do we turn those marks into purpose? 

Indi Casa is a filmmaker and photographer whose work bridges the gap between visual storytelling and commercial videography. His upcoming documentary, Indyquay, is an unfiltered exploration of his personal journey—retracing his past, seeking his roots, and capturing the raw essence of human connection. Through stunning cinematography and immersive storytelling, Indy documents his search for family, identity, and meaning.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Indi's transition from commercial filmmaking to a documentary storytelling.
• Challenges in documentary filming. 
• Navigating the ethical responsibilities of filmmaking.
• The challenges of telling deeply personal stories in extreme environments.
• Insights into editing and structure of a documentary 
• How to approach storytelling in commercial work versus documentaries.
• Thoughts on the importance of sharing one’s story.

Find Indi Casa's work on his channels:
Website: www.indi-casa.com
Instagram: @indi_casa
You Tube: @indicasa9502

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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 Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
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yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

When you witness war up close, do you still believe in humanity?

Natalie Keyssar is a Brooklyn-based documentary photographer whose work delves into the personal impact of political turmoil, conflict, and migration.

With a background in painting and illustration, her perspective has led her to cover some of the most pressing global issues, from Venezuela to Ukraine. Her award-winning photography has been published in The New York Times Magazine, National Geographic, and TIME.  The conversation focuses on the ethical responsibilities of photographers, the nuances of storytelling, and the balance between aesthetics and ethics. 

In this conversation:

• Examination of empathy as a core principle in photography.
•  Importance of ethical responsibilities in photojournalism.
• Why photojournalists aren't neutral observers and the importance of accountability.
• How mainstream media and capitalism shape what stories get told.
• Insight into her unique approach to capturing human experiences. 
• The balance between aesthetics and ethics in storytelling.
• Her latest project with the UFC and the intersection of sport, politics, and masculinity.
• The transition from photography to filmmaking.

Find Natalie Keyssar's work on her channels:
Website: www.nataliekeyssar.com
Instagram: @nataliekeyssar
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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 Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter

Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

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

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

What does it take to capture the most important images of the biggest day of peoples lives?

Gigi de Manio is an acclaimed wedding photographer renowned for her ability to capture raw, emotional, and timeless moments. With a background in psychology, she brings a deep understanding of human connection to her work, ensuring every image tells a meaningful story. The discussion highlights the emotional complexities of wedding photography, the significance of pre-production, and the empowering nature of community support among creatives. Over her 25-year career, Gigi has established herself in the luxury wedding market, working with high-profile clients and event planners worldwide. She is also the author of Silver: Moments into Memories, a retrospective of her career in wedding photography.

What we discussed:

• The journey from psychology to photography. 
• Emphasis on emotional connection with subjects. 
• Importance of pre-production and understanding clients. 
• Challenges in the age of social media. 
• Community support and networking among photographers. 
• Continuous learning and evolving as an artist. 
• Future aspirations and desire for meaningful storytelling.

Find Gigi de Manio's work on her channels:
Website: www.demaniophotography.com
Instagram: @gigidemanio
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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
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My Newsletter
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Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
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yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

“We need to completely change the way we think. Science can give us the data, but what is the solution to greed?”

Jorik Dozy, visionary filmmaker and co-founder of Studio Birthplace, speaks passionately about using film as a catalyst for change. Through his work, Jorik amplifies eco-conscious narratives, tackling urgent environmental and social issues with visually striking and emotionally powerful films. His projects have not only raised awareness but have directly influenced policy changes, proving that storytelling has the power to drive real-world impact. 

What we discussed:

• The role of filmmakers in environmental activism.
• How impactful storytelling can create policy change.
• Why people ignore climate issues.
• The emotional toll of documenting global crises.
• The responsibility of creatives in shaping public perception.
• The impact of consumerism, greenwashing, and misinformation.
• What individuals can do to create meaningful change.
  
  

Find Jorik Dozy's work on his channels:
Website: www.studiobirthplace.com
Instagram: @jorikdozy
You Tube: @studiobirthplace

______________________________________________________

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
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My Newsletter
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Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
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yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

What does it truly mean to belong, and how do our stories shape the connections we make?

Benjamin Rasmussen is an acclaimed photographer whose work explores themes of identity, belonging, and societal narratives. With roots in the Faroe Islands, the Philippines, and the United States, Benjamin’s multicultural upbringing profoundly influences his storytelling. As well as his work being featured in publications such as The New Yorker, Time, and The Atlantic, Benjamin is also the author of the photo book 'The Good Citizen'.

Highlights of our conversation:

• The connection between personal heritage and storytelling.
• Navigating the complexities of identity and belonging in photography.
• The balance between aesthetics and ethics.
• Challenging stereotypes and finding universal connections.
• The nuanced art of photographing power and privilege. 
• The significance of compelling narratives in shaping perceptions.
• Insights into Benjamin's book, "The Good Citizen".
• Strategies for community engagement and distribution of photographic work.

Find Benjamin Rasmussen's work on his channels:
Website: www.benjaminrasmussenphoto.com
Instagram: @benjaminras

Referenced book in the conversation:
'The Good Citizen'
https://benjaminrasmussenphoto.com/The-Good-Citizen
____________________________________________________________________

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
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My Newsletter
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Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

Socials:
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yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

"Photography is an art form that requires intention, creation, and a willingness to make photos, not just take photos."

Doron Gild is a photographer whose work blurs the boundaries between fine art and commercial photography. Known for his ability to create visually striking and emotionally resonant portraits, Doron’s images tell layered stories that reflect the individuality of his subjects. From editorial portraiture to high-concept family shoots, his work embodies a unique mix of precision, creativity, and authenticity.

Our conversation covered:

• Transitioning from 'taking” to “making' photographs. 
• The psychology of portraiture.
• The concept of 'portraits within portraits'.
• Balancing artistic integrity with commercial demands.
• Candid experiences working with Bon Jovi and other celebrities. 
• The meticulous process behind his shoots. 
• Navigating the impact of AI. 
• The importance of personal connections. 
• Embracing challenges and perseverance. 
  
  

Find Doron Gild's work on her channels:
Website: www.dorongild.com
Instagram: @dorongildphotography
_____________________________________

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
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My Newsletter
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Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com

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

yoreh.
www.yoreh.co