In this episode, we chat with Ken Landry (@varsityoverland), an emerging creator who has successfully turned his passion for overlanding into compelling content on social media and YouTube. Ken’s success challenges the common misconception that you need huge numbers to collaborate with brands, proving the power of authenticity and quality storytelling over production value. We discuss how photography and videography became secondary tools to document his primary adventures. We talk about self-identifying or self-labelling ourselves as "professionals", "YouTubers", "Directors", etc. because no one is coming to dub you or officially approve of these titles. We also talk about how waiting for the perfect moment or obsessing over getting things absolutely perfect on the first try holds us back.

Expect to learn:

- why you should just start and avoid trying to get everything right on the first try
- why repetitions and immersion will always be more efficient than theorizing
- why you don't need a huge following to collaborate with brands
- why your primary passions should help shape the creative journey
- why you should self claim your titles (i.e no one is coming to brand you a "pro")

All of Ken's Links: https://www.linktr.ee/varsityoverland/

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! They've extended their  Holiday Instant Savings event through January 26th, 2025. Explore the 25-78mm f/2.8 G2 lens with $200 off and deals on many more lenses for your Sony E-mount, Nikon Z, and FUJIFILM X-mount mirrorless cameras by clicking www.tamron-americas.com or by visiting your local Tamron authorized dealer.

Our Links:

Check out our 2025 TPM Alaskan Photography Retreat itinerary and secure 1 of 2 spots left: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/2025-tpm-annual-retreat-alaska

Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/

Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show

In this episode, we explore how creators can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world by learning to integrate new technology instead of resisting it. We examine the natural fear of change, breaking down why it happens and how to tackle it with an open, curious mindset. By "swimming with the whales," we uncover the value of observing successful creators—not to imitate, but to learn from their strategies and insights. We also challenge the idea of overly identifying with fixed labels or roles, emphasizing how letting go can lead to greater creative freedom. Finally, we discuss how to distinguish fleeting hype from innovations with true long-term impact, equipping you with the clarity to move forward with purpose and intention.

Expect to learn:

-How to integrate new technology rather than fight it
-the reasons why we are naturally averse to change
-why you should "swim with the whales" and observe what big creators are doing
-how to destroy your attachment to your identity
-how to tell when something is "overhyped" or has actual long term value

Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

You can use the code TPM2025 at checkout for 15% off!
https://www.whitewall.com/


Our Links:

Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/

Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show

In this episode, we build upon last week's discussion about concepts we'll have at the forefront of our brains as we move through life and photography in 2025, mainly focusing on how to live and create with more intention. We explore the power of essentialism, that is doing fewer things but doing them deeply and more intensely, and the challenges of showing up as your true self both online and in daily life. We dig into the irony of seeking authenticity in a world tied to social media and share strategies for those who don't seek external validation yet still feel called to share their work. We also talk about cutting out the "noise" in our lives with precision, accuracy, and without pause.

Expect to learn:

-How to ruthlessly and unapologetically cut out "noise" everywhere in your life
-why it's so difficult for everyone to be their true self and how to change this
-how to be more of an essentialist, focusing on less but more important things
-why we convince ourselves we're being "productive" when we're really just "busy"
-why if you're not saying "hell ya!" to doing something, it may be better to say "no".

Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

You can use the code TPM2025 at checkout for 15% off!
https://www.whitewall.com/


Our Links:

Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/

Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show

In this episode, we take a moment to reflect on 2024, exploring both our mindset principles and growth as photographers. We then shift our focus to the key areas we plan to actively improve in 2025.

Expect to learn:

- How to tell if you need less hustle and more downtime.
- how to "close loops" and why open loops should be priority
- the continued importance of being more than just a photographer
- why we want less jobs that pay more; how we plan to build that "roster"

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're having a Holiday Instant Savings event from right now until January 5th, 2025. Explore the 25-78mm f/2.8 G2 lens with $200 off and deals on many more lenses by clicking www.tamron-americas.com or by visiting your local Tamron authorized dealer.

Our Links:

Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/

Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show

Ian Jones (@iansjones), a frequent guest on the show, is a highly skilled photographer and content creator known for managing demanding workloads and transforming ideas into high-quality finished products with speed and precision. By day, he excels as a marketing director, serves as a Tamron Americas ambassador, and collaborates with diverse companies across industries to create exceptional content.

Expect to learn:

- what the "idea graveyard" is and why it's important for creators
- how to take an idea from concept to finished or published product
- why we feel guilt when ideas fall by the wayside
- why not everyone operates most efficiently at the same pace
- when a creative project is finished and when to stop tinkering with it

Ian's Website: https://www.isjdesigns.com/


Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're having a Holiday Instant Savings event from right now until January 5th, 2025. Explore the 25-78mm f/2.8 G2 lens with $200 off and deals on many more lenses by clicking www.tamron-americas.com or by visiting your local Tamron authorized dealer.

Our Links:

Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/

Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show

Mark Smith (@mark.smith.photography) is a renowned photographer and videographer celebrated for his mesmerizing wildlife photography and storytelling. With over 2.1 million Instagram followers and 1.8 million YouTube subscribers, he has captivated audiences worldwide through breathtaking footage and a unique ability to bring the wonders of the natural world to life.

In this episode, Mark opens up about facing loss and learning to move forward using videography and photography as solace. He shares how he makes time for interests beyond photography and videography and how that contributes to his overall success. He also talks about the importance of not forcing situations and simply going with the flow. Lastly, we hear about his go-to gear selections in certain scenarios.


Expect to learn:

- to work hard at photography/videography while making space for other things
- how to navigate incredibly difficult times and find solace in your creative pursuits
- how to efficiently segment your time based on your own unique traits
- why forcing situations to happen is often less effective than "going with the flow"
- Mark's favorite gear for certain shooting scenarios


Marks' YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/marksmithphotography
Mark's Photography Workshops: https://photoworkshopsandtours.com/
Mark's Video Editing Master Class: https://mark-smith-photography.learnworlds.com/course/wildlife-video-editing-master-class


Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints with a variety of material options delivered worldwide fast in 9 days or less!

Follow WhiteWall on Instagram to stay in the loop about the giveaway they're doing with Mark: @whitewall_lab

You can use the code TPMINDSET15 at checkout for 15% off! Valid until 12/31/24 https://www.whitewall.com/

Our Links:

Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/

Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show

In this episode, we unpack the crucial lesson we wish we’d learned earlier in our photography careers, charging not only for our time but also for the rights to use the assets we create. Too often, photographers hand over images or videos, unknowingly leaving clients free to profit while missing out on fair compensation. We dig into the art of licensing, attempting to simply explain how fees vary based on factors like company size, asset usage, and licensing duration, and why it’s essential to clarify that you retain ownership of your work. We also tackle strategies for educating clients, making it clear there’s a difference between paying for your time and paying for the right to use your assets commercially. Lastly, we weigh the benefits of separating time and licensing into clear line items versus presenting clients with a single bundled fee.

Expect to learn:

- why you'll never go back to the old way of just billing only for your time
- how to develop a tailored and adaptive approach to pricing licensing fees
- that licensing sounds more complicated than it really is and that you're capable
- how to get your clients to understand why they pay for your time and licensing
- the proper duration to license your photos  (1 year, 3 years, forever, etc.)

Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session

Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

You can use the code TPMINDSET15 at checkout for 15% off! Valid until 12/31/24
https://www.whitewall.com/

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/


Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show

Bret Blakely (@bretblakely), our very first guest on the genesis episode of this podcast, returns to share his inspiring journey back to photography after a long hiatus. Driven by renewed passion, Bret talks about overcoming guilt for stepping away, rediscovering joy in his craft, and how his communication skills elevate his photography. Bret is also the co-founder of "Oncore Golf", a successful golf ball manufacturing company. He talks a lot about how his business experience has translated into the photography world. He reflects on shifting from seeking audience validation to creating for personal fulfillment, fostering a healthier relationship with his art. We also discuss exposure therapy, conquering insecurities, and the power of “the obstacle is the way.”

Expect to learn:

- how to reignite passion and the psychological process involved in this
- how to manage feelings of guilt when stepping away from a beloved thing
- the importance of being a genuine and engaged communicator
- how to focus on personal satisfaction with your own creative work
- how to tackle insecurities and fears head on with exposure therapy

Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session

Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

You can use the code TPMINDSET15 at checkout for 15% off! Valid until 12/31/24
https://www.whitewall.com/

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/


Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show

This episode dives into the story of a listener who’s feeling uninspired by wedding photography, despite its financial success. We explore how creative challenges and mild stress can reignite that lost spark, along with the unique fulfillment of seeing your work printed and displayed, rather than just scrolled past online.

We also discuss our personal experiences with galleries—how to choose photos to print, price them, and the rewarding feeling of witnessing people connect with your art. Additionally, we reflect on separating the joy of creating from audience reactions and how keeping some forms of photography as hobbies, rather than monetizing them, can preserve their magic.

Expect to learn:

-how to introduce challenges or mild stress on purpose to reignite passion
-how printing your work elicits a deeper connection with a real-world audience
-how to decide which photos to print, and how to price them
-to detach emotionally from your feelings creating a photo and how viewers perceive it
-why you don't need to monetize genres of photography that you enjoy


Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're having a Holiday Instant Savings event from right now until January 5th, 2025. Explore the 25-78mm f/2.8 G2 lens with $200 off and deals on many more lenses by clicking www.tamron-americas.com or by visiting your local Tamron authorized dealer.

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/


Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show

In this episode, we focus on empowering introverted photographers to enhance their communication skills, transforming their interactions from hesitant whispers to confident exchanges. We dive into redefining "fake it till you make it," encouraging people to recognize that "faking" something unfamiliar isn't faking at all. It's a paradox because at that moment you're actually doing the thing regardless of skill level. Learn how to avoid self-labeling to break free from limiting beliefs and how to wield the power of asking questions to control and steer conversations. Embrace discomfort by creating joy within challenges, turning them into opportunities for growth. Lastly, discover the artful application of "yes" or "no" questions versus open-ended ones to deepen understanding and foster richer dialogues.

Expect to learn:

- a new way to look at the concept "fake it till you make it"
- how to avoid labelling yourself so you don't create limiting beliefs
- why the person asking questions is the one in control of the conversation
- how to welcome discomforting scenarios by creating joy in them
- when to ask "yes" or "no" questions vs. open-ended questions


Book a one time virtual 30 minute 1-on-1 session with Aaron or Seth entirely for FREE by using the code "FREETRIAL" at checkout: https://thephotographermindset.com/products/60-minute-virtual-1-on-1-session


Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

From November 11th 2024 - December 2nd 2024 get:

10% Off all orders above $100
15% Off all orders above $250
20% Off all orders above $500

https://www.whitewall.com/

Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/


Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show:
https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US


Thanks for listening!
Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused.

@sethmacey
@mantis_photography
@thephotographermindset

Support the show