The PhotoTellers--Photography Podcast

 

Rob Hull

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you or someone you love is new to Photography, and wants to take great photographs, today's conversation on The PhotoTellers is for you! Photographer and Author Rob Hull has written the book on the subject. Rob joins the show today to talk about his own history in Photography--from his first experience in the 8th grade, to a career at IBM & publishing, then to teaching Photography at a local college. How did all of those elements combine to create this book? That's what you'll learn.

You'll also hear about his relationship with the illustrious Tony Corbell. They're doing some pretty exciting work together, traveling the world to train Photographers in all ilks of the craft. Be certain that you CLICK HERE to see where they'll be, and also sign up for the weekly educational blog.

If you've missed my previous conversations with Tony, here's a link to one of them:

http://firesidenetwork.com/this-photographer-discovered-a-secret-hidden-within-the-original-american-flag/

Is Rob's book written for the seasoned pro? Is it appropriate for your/your friends' skill level? The following excerpt from the conversation explains:

BILL: Who should read this book?

ROB: This book is really targeted for the beginner, or if you know somebody who may have been photographing for a little while. It's certainly not for the pro-market. It covers all of the camera controls up to [excluding] Manual. We talk about Manual, but we don't get into a lot of the metering techniques and all that for Manual photography.

So if you want to understand all of the automated settings in your camera, it helps people understand what happens when they change a different setting. That could be in like Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, things like that. But then a lot of our cameras that also have specialty modes like Sport Mode . . . Beach Mode, and stuff like that. What this book does a very good job of doing is helping you understand exactly what your camera is doing, and how does it determine the exposures for those different settings? Because the more somebody understands what's happening when they set those controls, the more they're going to know what the cameras strengths and weaknesses are.

A camera can't do everything, but people need to understand and be able to figure out: "When is the camera to be able to handle this well, and when do I have to take over and do something else?"

David Stiff, today's guest on The PhotoTellers, spent much of his career working for Southwest Airlines. While there, David enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with Co-Founder & former CEO Herb Kelleher. David's opinion of his former boss?

"Herb Kelleher is the most incredible human being that I have ever met in my life."

Why such an esteemed opinion? What fundamental lesson did David learn from Herb?

"Herb instilled in all of us the desire to love, care and respect others; and that we are here to serve others."

If you spend much time with David, you'll find him filled with wonder, and filled with great stories! Among the tales of his time at Southwest is David's story of astronaut Robert "Hoot" Gibson--and the photo of Hoot taken from the Mir space station by a Russian cosmonaut.  Then there's the emotional story of the "bus kid," and how his life changed from the kindness of a Dallas, TX, newsman.

You'll also hear why David insists on creating work that's just plain fun--even when he's not being paid. And he gives his strong opinion about competition & professionalism among Photographers.

Special thanks to The Texas School of Professional Photography for this episode! You'll hear David's reaction after his first year in attendance. Click the logo below to see what the fuss is all about.

 

 

What happens, Photographer, when you arrive on location, you have extremely limited time, and the setting is wrong? Russ Talks episode #8 finds Russ Harrington again in Stillwater, Oklahoma, with photographer Heather Beadles.

Russ & Heather Beadles

Heather recently asked Russ to spend a day in her studio, shooting her clients, with her equipment. Their adventure led Russ to an Olympic-Champion, now wrestling coach, at Oklahoma State University. The day allowed Heather--and now us--the chance to see how Russ responds to traditional portrait photography "rules."

You'll also hear a behind-the-scenes conversation about Russ' vision when he walks into a new studio.

• How does he see it differently?
• What 2 tips does he offer for using the backgrounds you already own?
• You have large light-modifiers that aren't sculpting as well as they should. Russ' solution?
• Russ Harrington's advice to portrait photographers that he hasn't met yet.
• Why is flash recycle time so critical to Russ?See more of the work that Heather is doing on her WEBSITE, on INSTAGRAM, or on FACEBOOK.And be sure to follow Russ by clicking the logo:

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Finally, here is a brief excerpt from my conversation with Heather and Russ. As I ask Heather about her continuing quest for education, I then ask . . .

BILL: What did you want? Why did you do it? You've got a good thing going--it's not that you're a novice at this. What did you hope to gain from bringing Russ to spend the day with you at your studio?

HEATHER: After studying with so many different Master Photographers: Greg Daniel, William Branson, Tim Kelly, Elizabeth Homan, Tim Walden, Ken Whitmire . . . I've studied with so many amazing Master Photographers and you learn their way of lighting. You learn the PPA rules of lighting and posing . . . . I know the rules, I'm a Certified Professional Photographer. When you learn from so many different people that have amazing photography--you have to translate that back to your studio. I just needed someone to come and help me work with [my gear] in my space and Russ did that. He challenged me to get out of the box and to even MOVE the box--literally move the soft boxes to a different spot and choose a different soft box just to help me get out of the groove of I have what I have been taught. He basically broke all the rules.

RUSS: My goal is to get 12 or 13 differently lit scenario locations of an artist. The 700 or so album covers I've shot, I've became known for: When we leave this shoot, the merchandising people are gonna be happy, the designers are gonna be happy, the A&R people, the promotions people--everyone's gonna have these different images that they can promote the artist for a year or 18 months. I just became known for "I'm gonna break rules . . . ." I did a Tim McGraw record with two fluorescent lights from a K-Mart, and we put them on an old bus in Pennsylvania. And that was the album cover. Lit with two $10 shop lights.

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He is RALPH ROMAGUERA. After learning Photography in the Navy, now 47 years in business, after visiting numerous countries, after a year of Presidency of the PPA, after decades of learning from icons (and a few decades of teaching others) . . . Ralph has seen more than a few trends in the Photography. What trends does he love? What trend is a love/hate relationship?

When Ralph's career is over, and we look back on his influence, what legacy does he want to leave? HINT: It's only 5 words.

Today's episode of The PhotoTellers again features Ralph. If you heard his previous conversation here, you'll recognize the distinct Louisiana accent. You'll also remember the distinctly laid-back, insightful glimpse into the industry.

"If you learn something new everyday, think how smart you'll be at 100." -Momma Romaguera

You'll also hear Ralph discuss the niche that has made him a comfortable income. It's a niche that he's proud to serve, and he's noticed other Photographers recently catching on to an old trend. The clip below is an excerpt that I especially enjoyed.

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BILL: You mention you're school photographer--when you say that I see your chest puff out a little bit--you say that with real pride. There are some who I would assume look down their nose and think: "School photography: that's not 'highbrow,' 'that's not important.'" How do you respond to that? Have you experienced that kind of attitude among other Photographers?

RALPH: Yes! And it's really kind of funny, speaking of changes. There was a day where people would snub their nose, you know. But I've photographed Presidents, I've photographed personalities--but I also like to eat. And I like nice things."

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Before our conversation ends, Ralph talks about his involvement with Operation Smile. Had you been there in person, you'd have seen his eyes mist over as he talked about the love he and his beautiful bride, Cindy, have poured into Operation Smile via PPA Charities. If I told you that "240 dollars could LITERALLY save the life of a child," you'd think me exaggerating. But it's true!

If you'd like to see some of the work that Ralph Romaguera is creating, find it by CLICKING HERE.

And you twice hear Ralph mention the iconic Frank Cricchio. He's oft-been called "the Master's Master." I'm honored to say that Frank was a guest on the show last year! FIND IT HERE.

Episode #8 of Russ Talks finds Mr. Russ Harrington talking about Keith Urban, Nicole Kidman, Amy Grant, Oklahoma, and coaching the sports Photographer. Russ has been busy! If you've seen Keith Urban's Ripcord album, or Amy Grant's new Tennessee Christmas Album, you've seen two of his recent clients. As of the recording date, Russ was in negotiation to photograph the incomparable Nicole Kidman! Did they connect? Did Russ land the job?

Along with his hectic shooting schedule, Russ has also been traveling to teach and mentor other Photographers. Our conversation today recounts his trip to Stillwater, Oklahoma, where Russ spent a day with the  Athletics Photographer for Oklahoma State University--Mr. Bruce Waterfield. When you hear Bruce talk about his work at OSU, he sounds giddy!

• How did he land the job that he thinks is the greatest in the world?
• What surprises people about Bruce's job?
• How has the job of sports photographer dramatically changed?

Maybe you're wondering why Russ spent the day coaching Bruce. As Russ is speaking to groups of Photographers, he's also taking time for one-on-one mentoring days. Imagine the look of your photography if you and Russ Harrington spent the day working in your space, with your equipment, your clients. That's what Bruce did--and here are a few of the results:

Image Taken at Orange Power Studios, Wednesday, October 26, 2016. Bruce Waterfield/OSU Athletics Image Taken at Orange Power Studios, Wednesday, October 26, 2016. Bruce Waterfield/OSU Athletics

If you'd like to see your studio through Russ' eyes, consider a one-one-one day. Click the Russ Talks logo to learn more, see some of his work, and snag your free download about the Jason Aldean session.

Or maybe you want to spend a week with Russ. He'll be teaching again at The Texas School of Professional Photography, April 23-28, 2017, in Addison, TX. Discover more when you click the Texas School logo.

If you photograph children and/or High School Seniors, today's conversation with Kibbee Walton is critical for you! This is the interview at Texas School that left me itching to get home to photography my own children. Be certain to hang on until the very end! After we finished our conversation, I had to turn the microphone back on to capture some of our off-air banter. In my opinion, the last 2 minutes are the most profound. 

What can you expect from this episode of The PhotoTellers?

• Do you photograph High School Seniors, but can't seem to sell wall portraits?
• Do you know WHY this time for a portrait is one of the most critical?
• What is the most powerful question to ask the client BEFORE the session?
• In Kibbee's opinion, what are the 5 critical times to create a "library of portraits" for your children?
• Do you know HOW and WHY you should conduct a pre-session consultation?
• What is the subtle message that a family portrait conveys to the children in that home?

I hope you enjoy this conversation of business acumen--and personal inspiration--as much as I did.

Check out Kibbee's work--and a great "about us" video on HIS WEBSITE HERE. Or find him ON FACEBOOK. Or TWITTER.

Luke Edmonson invites you, Photographer, to study under a living Master: David Edmonson. Luke explains the exhilarating 3-year project that's allowing David to create his finest work ever! You are now hereby invited to join him.

Who is David Edmonson? In Luke's own words:

Over the next 365 days x 3 years = ART1095 project enables you to witness the creation of a modern masterpiece. While David Edmonson is not the first photographer to create homage pieces to past Master Artists, he is the most recent and arguably most relevant.

David Edmonson is known as a “Master Photographer to Master Photographers” and with good reason.

Photography has long been a part of our family’s legacy. It started as my father and grandfather working as professional photographers in our hometown of Dallas, TX. Today it’s the two of us.

My dad honed his skills and built his roots over the past 40+ years of commercial photography shooting magazines, books, CD covers, and annual reports. In the days of film, one of the crafts he perfected is in camera-artistry.

Before the days of digital and Photoshop, anything you wanted to create in a photograph was done through building sets, lighting the scene and a single frame of film.

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Today's episode of The PhotoTellers explains the "1,000 day project," now named the ART1095 Project. Learn about the phases of creating art: From imitating, emulating, then creating. Hear what's most exciting about David's current work. Understand why David spends meticulous time creating depth with precisely the right elements.

You may wonder, as I did, "Is my time studying with David practical for my own photographic development?" Hear Luke's insightful response, an answer that applies to any area of personal growth.

Learn more about working with David and Luke Edmonson by clicking the logo below.

Interesting in seeing the work they do with Brides, Grooms, and their families? CLICK HERE.

 

 

 

Carl Caylor

 

 

 

 

If a genie granted Carl Caylor one wish for the Photography Industry, what would he request? A Photographer since the 80's, and an instructor much of that time, Carl has walked through the seismic digital shift, and the accompanying business recycle. He's no stranger to change.

And he also happens to be a published author! Click the link below to find his book on Amazon.

In today's episode of The PhotoTellers, you'll hear how Carl's High School wrestling coach gently encouraged Carl to pursue photography: "Help the yearbook or run laps."  [I think it's safe to say that no kid has ever been cajoled from Photography into wrestling.]

Other tidbits of interest from our conversation:

• Why enter print competition?
• What's next for Carl as a Photographer?
• Once you've established a successful business, why bother pressing your own Photography boundaries?
• Consider a different mentality about advertising our work--it's about enjoying the product
• What surprises people about Carl's job as a Photographer?
• Why should someone attend TX School? What makes it different from other schools?

 

Check out some more of Carl's work at PhotoImagesByCarl.net

And if you're enjoying The PhotoTellers podcast, I need your help. Meander on over to iTunes and give a rating and review to the show. Please and thank you. Something that simple REALLY DOES help the show! Your involvement there tells the iTunes gods, "Hey--this is a relevant podcast! Share it with others!" And they do! Because of your involvement, only weeks after the launch, iTunes featured us in the New And Noteworthy section.

One other thing: What do you need from ME? What would you like to hear on the show? How can it improve? What does the show need MORE of? LESS of? What topics should we explore? Who have been your favorite guests? Leave your comments in the section below.

 

Are you striving for success in commercial photography? My friend Tom Mileshko is here to help. For any Photographer who wants to grow a business helping other businesses look their best, today's conversation on The PhotoTellers is intensely practical.

He's worked at the coldest Army base in the world, photographed weddings, and now Tom leads a group of photo and video experts. His clients range from the local business person to Chick-Fil-A.

What can you expect to hear from Tom?

• Do businesses still see the need for REAL commercial photography, or are they happy with the local hobbyist? How does Tom "compete" with a market flooded with self-proclaimed photographers?
• How does he generate clients? What activities & organizations generate leads, then paying clients?
• What remarkably simple practice does Tom use to stay "top of mind" when a company needs a Photographer?
• Tom and I role-play common sales objections.
• Tom explains his career pivot. Do you have a business or a hobby?
• How is Tom utilizing video in his work--and why?
• Tom's tips for success.
• How can you negotiate a fair price for your work . . . and use the "flinch principle" to your benefit?

Stay tuned through the end so that you can hear Tom's perspective on giving back, and when it's vital to the Photographer's OWN well-being. Here is the link that I promise to the Help-Portrait Worldwide project. Check it out, Photographer, and see if you might lend a hand.

And speaking of doing good, you may have heard my previous conversation with Ashley Jones of Love Not Lost. It was Tom that introduced me and Ashley at Imaging USA 2016. Here's the chat between Ashley and me.

If you'd like to see some of Tom's work, or connect with him via the Inter-webs, you can find him HERE.

And if you'd like to read one of my favorite business books, all about giving back, click the link below to grab a copy of The Go-Giver.

© BryCox.com, Bry Cox

Bry Cox, long-time friend of the show, joins us again discussing an oft-avoided subject in Photography: SALES.

How good are you at sales? More than an academic question, this is the subject that determines your lifestyle, your charitable giving, your family's future.

If you think that "sales" is a dirty word in the world of photography, I encourage you to give this episode a listen. If you have thoughts, disagreements, or questions for Bry, leave them in the comment section below.

See some of Bry's work on his CLIENT WEBSITE, or learn how he's serving other Photographers on his WORKSHOP WEBSITE. The workshop site will help you keep up with Bry's speaking schedule, and also provide resources if you can't catch him in person.

If you'd like to learn more from Bry or 45 of the other instructors at Texas School, the dates are April 23-28, 2017. Click the logo below . . . and be sure to send thanks for their sponsorship of the show!