Tired of seeing photographers bash others online just to gain clout? In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, we tackle the trend of newer photographers criticizing more experienced pros, and explore how to spend your energy more productively.

We cover:

• Why rage-baiting backfires – the short-term attention versus long-term impact.

• Learning from experience – how respecting seasoned photographers can accelerate your growth.

• Building your voice authentically – growing your presence without negativity.

• The value of collaboration – how mentorship and community foster success.

• Investing in yourself – using time and energy on projects, skills, and learning instead of online drama.

If you've ever felt caught up in comparison or online conflict, this episode provides practical advice for focusing on your craft, building meaningful connections, and contributing positively to the photography community.

Listen now to learn how to rise above the noise and grow as a photographer with purpose.

This episode contains promos for:

• Nerdy Photographer Let's Be Real Unposed Photography Prompts
• StyleCloud WordPress Website Templates
• Siteground Web Hosting
• Backblaze Cloud Data Backup

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com
• If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

Brandi Potter is a destination wedding photographer with a love for darkness and emotion. She likes her dogs and the winter time.

You can find her work on her website – brandi-potter.com – or on Instagram @bran.potter

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's work at https://caseyfphoto.com

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

As AI and automation transform photography, one question keeps coming up: how do we keep the humanity in our images? In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, I talk with photographer and tech innovator Sam Hurd about finding balance between embracing technology and preserving the emotional, human side of photography.

We explore:

• Art vs. automation – using tech to amplify creativity, not replace it.

• AI with intention – treating AI tools as collaborators, not shortcuts.

• The emotional core – why empathy, connection, and storytelling still matter most.

• The beauty of imperfection – how flaws and unpredictability make photos feel real.

• Future-proofing creativity – staying adaptable without losing your artistic voice.

If you've ever wondered where photography ends and technology begins - or worried that AI might dull your creative edge - this episode is a must-listen.

Tune in now to hear Sam Hurd's insights on how photographers can stay authentic, creative, and human in a rapidly evolving digital world.

This episode contains promos for:

• Nerdy Photographer Let's Be Real Unposed Photography Prompts - https://nerdyphotographer.com/lets-be-real/
• StyleCloud WordPress Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/
• Siteground Web Hosting - https://siteground.com/go/nerdy
• Backblaze Cloud Data Backup - https://www.backblaze.com/cloud-backup/personal#afc32p

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com
• If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

Starting as a political news and celebrity portrait photographer in DC, Sam was instantly drawn to wedding photography as a space to promote more inventive ideas. Sam's focus is on photographic techniques that are deceptively simple but have the potential to transform difficult or uninspiring shooting environments into one-of-a-kind opportunities for every photo made.

You can learn more about Sam and view his work on his Patreon – patreon.com/samhurd – or on Instagram @iamthesam

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

Every year, as the holidays approach, photographers are bombarded with ads promising that the next lens, light, or gadget will finally take their work to the next level. The deals are tempting, the pressure is real—and it's easy to believe that "better gear" equals "better photographer."

In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, we dive into how to survive the holiday marketing frenzy and refocus your energy on growth that actually matters. Instead of chasing discounts, this conversation is about investing in yourself: your creativity, your craft, and your purpose.

We explore how to tune out the noise, resist the constant call to consume, and make intentional choices about where to expand in your photography journey - whether that means learning new skills, starting a personal project, or refining your artistic vision.

Here's what you'll take away from this episode:

• Recognizing the Hype – How the photo industry's marketing cycle is designed to create FOMO and how to step back from it.

• Purposeful Expansion – Ways to grow as a photographer without spending a dime—through experimentation, education, and community.

• Mindful Purchasing – How to evaluate what you actually need versus what marketers tell you you're missing.

• Refocusing on Creativity – Why the best investments often come from time, attention, and curiosity—not gear.

• Building a Sustainable Mindset – Approaching your photography career with balance and long-term purpose instead of impulse-driven consumption.

This episode is a reminder that no sale can buy skill, vision, or passion. True growth comes from practice, purpose, and presence - not your credit card balance.

Tune in now to hear how you can thrive during the holiday marketing season and make meaningful, lasting investments in your photography journey.

If you ARE in the market for some useful tools for your photography business and want to take advantage of the deals available this time of year, check out our compiled list of the ultimate Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals for photographers - https://nerdyphotographer.com/news/black-friday-deals-photographers/

Thinking about pivoting your photography business? Rebranding can feel risky, but it may be the key to unlocking new opportunities. In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, I sit down with photographer Justin Haugen, who successfully transitioned from being a wedding photographer to building a thriving commercial photography brand.

We discuss:

• Knowing when to pivot – signs your current niche isn't serving your long-term goals.

• Rebranding strategies – reshaping your portfolio, website, and marketing to reach new clients.

• Leveraging past experience – how skills from one genre can build credibility in another.

• Communicating the shift – managing how clients and peers view your rebrand.

• Opportunities ahead – the doors that open when you align your work with your vision.

If you've ever wondered how to move beyond your current niche—or feared losing momentum by making a change—this episode will give you a roadmap for rebranding your photography business with confidence.

Tune in now to hear Justin Haugen's story and practical advice for photographers ready to reinvent their careers.

This episode contains promos for:

• BackBlaze Cloud Data Backup Services - https://www.backblaze.com/cloud-backup/personal#afc32p
• Style Cloud Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/
• Siteground Website Hosting - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/pic-time/
• Narrative AI Culling, Editing, and Publishing - https://narrative.so/select?affiliate=casey2746

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe if you enjoyed the episode!
• Tell other photographers about the podcast
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com
• If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

Justin is a Photographer hailing from Tucson, Arizona by way of Seoul, Korea. Having first picked up a camera in 2004, Justin has experienced several photography careers, but now finds himself in corporate and commercial spaces as he raises his young children with his wife. Justin is a Tamron USA ambassador and sometimes educator.

You can see more of Justin's work at his website - https://JustinHaugen.com - or on Instagram https://instagram.com/photowarlock

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his corporate, event, and portraiture work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

Tired of feeling like you have to follow every social media trend to get noticed? Authenticity wins. In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, we talk with California photographer Linda Alida about how photographers can build a genuine presence, both online and in person, without compromising their voice or values.

We dive into:

• Authenticity online – how to share real work and personality instead of copying trends.

• Meaningful connections in person – building trust with clients, collaborators, and peers.

• Balancing visibility and integrity – growing your reach while staying true to your vision.

• Consistency over virality – why long-term presence matters more than chasing fleeting trends.

• Defining your voice – tips for creating a recognizable, authentic style.

If you've ever felt pressured to post what's popular rather than what's real, this episode gives you practical tools for standing out in a trend-driven industry while staying true to yourself.

Listen now to learn how authenticity - online and off - can help you build a lasting presence in photography.

This episode contains promos for:

• Let's Be Real Unposed Photography Prompts - https://nerdyphotographer.com/lets-be-real
• Style Cloud Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/
• Siteground Website Hosting - https://siteground.com/go/nerdy
• Nerdy Photographer Contract Templates - https://nerdyphotographer.com/product-tag/contract/

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Join our mailing list - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://caseyfatchettphotography.pic-time.com/art
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/nerdy-photographer
• If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

Linda Alida is a California-based photographer with a knack for making magic out of messes—whether that's a chaotic wedding timeline or a dandelion growing through concrete. She blends emotional honesty with a wild sense of humor, capturing real moments that feel like memories you forgot you had. Known for saying the quiet parts out loud (sometimes too loud), Linda has built a fast-growing audience on Threads by being as unfiltered in her words as she is intentional in her art. Weddings, portraits, macro, landscapes—whatever the subject, she shows up with heart, a camera, and probably a weird face.

You can see more of Linda's work on her website - https://lindaalida.com - or on Instagram https://instagram.com/linda_alida_

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

What happens when a photographer starts to lose his vision - but not in the way he thinks? In this chilling Halloween episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, I share an original horror story that blends photography, obsession, and the terrifying cost of creative ambition.

Expect:

• A haunting tale of artistic obsession and self-destruction

• A photographer who discovers the true meaning of "losing vision"

• Psychological tension, eerie twists, and plenty of atmosphere

• A dark reflection on the fears that haunt every artist

Perfect for fans of eerie storytelling, this episode explores how passion can turn into something much more sinister when we lose sight - literally and figuratively - of what really matters.

Listen now to "Creative Vision" and experience a spine-tingling story that will make every photographer question what it truly means to see.

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com
• If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. Except during SPOOOOOOKY SEASON when he also wants to scare you...in an entertaining way. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

Want to take better photos? The secret isn't just planning every detail or just winging it. Great photography comes from balancing structure with spontaneity. In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, I talk with photographer Jonathan Pitts-Wiley about how building a framework for your work while staying open to unexpected moments can transform your images and your creative process.

We dive into:

• The power of structure – why routines, systems, and preparation keep you growing.
• The importance of flexibility – how to capture magic when plans change.
• Training adaptability – staying creative when conditions aren't perfect.
• Finding the balance – using both structure and spontaneity to fuel creativity.

If you've ever felt torn between rigid planning and going with the flow, this conversation will help you find the sweet spot. Learn how to stay intentional and adaptable, so you're always ready when the perfect moment unfolds.

Tune in now and discover how flexibility and structure work hand-in-hand to make you a better photographer.

This episode contains promos for:

• StyleCloud WordPress Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/
• Siteground Web Hosting - https://siteground.com/go/nerdy
• Backblaze Cloud Data Backup - https://www.backblaze.com/cloud-backup/personal#afc32p
• Nerdy Photographer Contract Templates - https://nerdyphotographer.com/product-tag/contracts/

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Join our mailing list - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://caseyfatchettphotography.pic-time.com/art
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/nerdy-photographer
• If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

A Rhode Island native and 2007 Yale graduate, Jonathan Pitts-Wiley is a portrait photographer whose work seeks to reflect humanity at the intersection of strength and vulnerability. In 2020, he co-founded The Vanta Guild, an RI-based Black photographers collective. In 2021, he collaborated with renowned documentary photographer Mary Beth Meehan to produce Witness, an exhibit on the life and times of his late grandmother, Annye Raye Pitts. In 2022, one of his works was selected for Providence's "Who We Are Now" public art banner project. In 2023, Jonathan's first solo show, All the Worlds, opened at Providence's World's Fair Gallery. In 2024, he was named an Elected Artist Member with visual arts organization Art League RI and in the spring of 2025, he was invited to participate in NetWorks RI's Growing the NetWorks exhibition at Providence's WaterFire Arts Center.

You can learn more about Jonathan and view his work on his website - jpittswiley.com - or on Instagram https://instagram.com/JPITTSWILEY

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's work at https://caseyfphoto.com

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

Want to get better at photography faster? Stop waiting for inspiration and start training like an athlete. In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, I sit down with street photographer Ryan Faer, who uses his background in professional baseball as an athletic trainer to show how discipline, repetition, and practice can transform the way you shoot.

We explore how applying an athlete's mindset to photography can help you sharpen your skills, stay consistent, and see improvement over time. Here's what you'll learn in this episode:

• Why "reps" matter – putting in the shots makes you quicker to recognize and capture moments.

• How to schedule practice time – building a routine instead of waiting for free time.

• Designing photo "drills" – focusing on specific skills like light, framing, or using one lens.

• Reviewing your own footage – analyzing your images to identify strengths and weaknesses.

• The power of consistency – why steady effort beats perfection every time.

If you've ever felt stuck in your photography or wondered how to push yourself forward, this episode will give you a practical framework to grow - one rep at a time.

Listen now and discover how a training system designed for athletes can help you become a stronger photographer.

This episode contains promos for the following:

• BackBlaze Cloud Data Backup Services - https://www.backblaze.com/cloud-backup/personal#afc32p
• Style Cloud Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/
• Siteground Website Hosting - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/pic-time/
• Narrative AI Culling, Editing, and Publishing - https://narrative.so/select?affiliate=casey2746

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Tell your friends about the podcast - you can even tell your enemies!
• Join the mailing list - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://caseyfatchettphotography.pic-time.com/art
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com
• If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

Ryan is currently in his 9th season with the Cleveland Guardians Major League Baseball organization, serving as a Senior Sports Science Analyst.

As for photography, a life with depression and anxiety has ultimately led Ryan to pick up a camera. And through the lens, he strives to let others see the world in a similar light as to how he has seen it on his own journey.

You can view Ryan's work on his website - https://ryanfaerphoto.com - or on Instagram https://instagram.com/ryan_faer

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

In this episode of the Nerdy Photographer Podcast, we're taking to the skies—literally. I sat down with award-winning photographer and author Chase Guttman, whose groundbreaking book on drone photography helped launch an entire generation of aerial image-makers. As one of the earliest voices in the drone photography space, Chase brings insight, experience, and a healthy dose of sky-high inspiration.

We talk about what it means to compose an image when your camera is 400 feet off the ground, how to think three-dimensionally when navigating space and light, and the gear that every aspiring drone photographer should consider. Whether you're just getting started or looking to take your drone work to the next level (pun definitely intended), this conversation is packed with valuable tips and tools.

Chase also shares his thoughts on the creative freedom drones offer photographers, the importance of storytelling from above, and how to stay legally safe and respectful while flying. Spoiler: it's not just about dodging birds and watching your battery life—although those are important too.

So if you've ever looked up at the sky and wondered what your photography might look like from that vantage point, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn from one of the pioneers of drone imagery and find out how you can bring new perspective—literally and creatively—to your work.

This episode contains promos for:

• Luminar Neo Photo Editing Software - https://skylum.evyy.net/c/1337833/1318151/3255
• Elementor Website Builder - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/elementor/
• Pic-Time Photo Galleries - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/pic-time/
• Narrative AI Culling, Editing, and Publishing - https://narrative.so/select?affiliate=casey2746

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, GoodPods, or Podchaser!
• Tell your friends about the podcast
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com
• If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

Chase Guttman is a three-time recipient and first American to win Young Travel Photographer of the Year, a prestigious international competition judged by museum curators and magazine editors, he was named a World's Top Travel Photographer by Condé Nast Traveler, a Rising Star by Instagram and won the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Storytelling and Exploration—a lifetime achievement level honor. His book, The Handbook of Drone Photography, was one of the first written on the topic and received critical acclaim from publications such as The Telegraph, Business Insider, The Daily Mail and the New York Post, among others. He also won an Emmy Award for his aerial cinematography in a documentary that he shot for PBS.

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's photography work at https://caseyfphoto.com

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

Ever wish you could get paid to get a behind-the-scenes look at the photography industry? That's exactly what being a photography assistant offers. In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, I interview photographer Andrew Tomasino and we dive deep into the role of photographic assistants and all the invaluable knowledge that comes with lugging gear, holding reflectors, and quietly absorbing everything on set like a human sponge.

Whether you're helping a wedding photographer keep the timeline on track or assisting a commercial shooter on a big product campaign, the assistant gig is full of golden opportunities. We're talking lighting techniques, gear handling, client interaction, posing cues, on-the-fly problem-solving, and how to not look panicked when a light stand goes rogue.

We also cover how assisting gives you a front-row seat to the business side of photography - from managing client expectations to understanding workflow, pricing, and delivering consistent results. It's like being paid to attend photography grad school (but with more bags to carry and better snacks).

If you're new to photography or looking to grow your career in a hands-on, immersive way, this episode is your roadmap. We've got tips on how to land assistant jobs, what makes a great assistant (spoiler: it's not just being strong), and how to turn those experiences into a launching pad for your own work.

And there's a whole lot of non-assiting related advice and other information we cover as well. Don't miss it!

Listen in and learn how you can build skills, expand your network, and gain real-world experience - all while cashing a paycheck.

This episode contains promos for:

• Elementor Website Builder - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/elementor/
• On1 Photo Raw Photo Editing Suite - https:/https:/nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/on1/
• Aftershoot AI Culling and Editing - https://aftershoot.com/?ref=nerdyphoto
• Nerdy Photographer Resources for Photographers - https://nerdyphotographer.com/resources/

Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that:

• Subscribe to the podcast!
• Leave a review - they are super important to spreading the word about the show.
• Tell your friends about the podcast - even tell your enemies!
• Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com
• Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto
• Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto
• Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social
• Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto
• Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com
• Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett
• If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/

Tomasino is a photographer and director focusing on portraits and fashion photography. You can view his work on his website - andrewtomasino.com - or on Instagram @t.omasino

The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's photography work at https://caseyfphoto.com

If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact