Why does hard work sometimes fall short of delivering the results we expect? In this episode, we uncover the non-linear relationship between effort and success, challenging the idea that rewards are always proportional to the work we put in. Through self reflections, we discuss the frustration around fairness, the role of external validation, and the power of self-auditing to find your "fifth gear" without burning out. By asking tough questions about our motivations—why we create, what truly matters, and how to align effort with purpose—this conversation aims to inspire a more intentional, fulfilling approach to chasing your creative goals.

Expect to learn:

-Why success isn’t always proportional to effort
-How to spot diminishing returns in your work
-The importance of peeling back the layers of your "why"
-How external validation can derail your creative process and what to do instead
-Why fairness is an illusion and how accepting this can help you focus on you

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! Explore the 35-150mm f/2.0-2.8 G2 lens with $200 USD & $300 CAD 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

Support the show

In this episode we chat with Ryan Peters (@ryanpeterspgh) a.k.a "Peter's Pasta", a Pittsburgh-based chef and pasta enthusiast whose viral TikTok and Instagram videos have captivated millions. Ryan shares his inspiring story of transitioning from the demanding restaurant world to becoming a full-time content creator and pasta entrepreneur, all fuelled by a 64-day obsession with perfecting his craft. Discover how he blends creativity with tradition to make pasta fun and approachable and the bold steps he took to turn his passion into a thriving career. From working with major brands and professional sports teams to collaborating with internet sensations like Mr. Beast, Ryan reveals the lessons he's learned.

Expect to Learn:

- When to take a leap of faith and leave a stable job to pursue content creation
- The importance of consistency and storytelling to build a strong niche brand
- The challenges of balancing creativity with managing a growing business
- Insights into creating viral content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram
- Tips on recognizing opportunity and capitalizing on moments of momentum

Ryan's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/PetersPasta
Ryan's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@peterspasta
Ryan's Website: https://www.peterspastapgh.com/ryan
Ryan's Podcast: @kneadtoknow

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! Explore the 35-150mm f/2.0-2.8 G2 lens with $200 USD & $300 CAD 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

Support the show

Support the show

In this episode, we chat with Vaughn Ridley (@vaughnridley), NBA team photographer for the Toronto Raptors and Getty Images photographer, about his journey into sports photography and what it takes to capture the raw emotion and intensity of professional basketball. Vaughn shares his process for balancing instinct with preparation during fast-paced events. He reflects on memorable moments with the Raptors and operating in high-pressure environments. Vaughn also reveals how his ultra running pursuits have shaped his mental fortitude, offering invaluable insights for aspiring photographers and creatives in any field.

Expect to Learn:

- How to harness resilience when making significant career shifts
- Strategies for balancing creativity and consistency in high-pressure situations
- How building strong professional relationships opens doors to new opportunities
- How setbacks can lead to personal and professional growth
- Techniques for managing lighting and equipment in tough settings

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 talk with Canadians Eric Paré (@ericparephoto) and Kim Henry (@kimhenry.dance), a creative duo known for blending art, movement, and technology in mesmerizing ways. Their work redefines photography as a performance, combining Eric’s mastery of light painting and innovative bullet time techniques with Kim’s expertise in contemporary dance and intentional movement. Together, they create stunning visual stories that push the boundaries of what’s possible, inspiring artists of all kinds to experiment, play, and bring their unique visions to life.

Expect to learn:

- The value of experimenting even when a formula is already providing success
- Why we should move our bodies deliberately and develop interoception
- How light painting merges photography and performance
- Why staying playful is key to long-term creative success.
- Interesting details about the work they do in their 400 camera 360 degree studio

Eric's Links: ericpare.com/links
Kim’s Links: kimhenry.dance

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! Explore the 35-150mm f/2.0-2.8 G2 lens with $200 USD & $300 CAD 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

Support the show

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