
In this eye-opening episode of our podcast, host Frederick Van Johnson and co-host Alastair Jolly dive into CES 2024. They discuss why this year's event felt particularly underwhelming for the photography community. From the lack of groundbreaking camera tech to the minimal focus on photography-centric innovations, they dissect the reasons behind this disappointment and what it could mean for the future of photography tech.



Picks of the Week:Alastair: LEGO Polaroid One-Step Frederick: OWC Atlas FXRFrederick: Laptop Drive Sleeve to stick Atlas FXR to the back of a laptop

TWiP 831 – Focus Lost: Why CES 2024 Didn’t Click for Photographers

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In this thought-provoking episode I sit down with veteran podcaster Mike "Sharky" James to explore the complex relationship between artificial intelligence and the world of photography. From its potential to enhance creativity to the ethical implications of AI-generated images, Sharky shares his unique insights and witty observations. Tune in for a lively discussion about how photographers can navigate this rapidly evolving landscape and harness the power of AI while staying true to their craft.



Subscribe to Sharky's podcast here!



About Sharky...







Mike "Sharky" James is a seasoned photojournalist and the host of the popular Lens Shark Photography Podcast. With a career spanning over a decade, Sharky has worked for various newspapers and has vast experience in both still photography and video content creation.



In 2014, Sharky launched the Lens Shark Photography Podcast on Christmas night, which quickly gained traction in the photography community. Just eight months later, he rebranded the show as the "PetaPixel Photography Podcast" after partnering with the industry giant. In December 2022, Sharky decided to change the name back to the "Lens Shark Photography Podcast" to focus on his own brand and avoid confusion with PetaPixel's in-house content.







Known for his unique perspective, engaging delivery, and his ability to discuss photography news with refreshing honesty, Sharky has become a trusted voice in the industry. His podcast has been chosen as the first photography podcast on several major platforms, including Spotify, Pandora, iHeart, and Radio.com.



Drawing from his extensive experience as a photojournalist, Sharky provides his audience with valuable insights and lessons learned from shooting thousands of assignments in diverse lighting and weather conditions. His show aims to help photographers become more informed and well-rounded, offering a mix of practical advice, industry news, and thought-provoking discussions.











Support Sharky's efforts... use his affiliate links!



20% OFF these brands - code SHARKY20:Additional Sponsors (no discount):BenroUSA.comShimodaDesigns.comKupoGrip.comPhottixUS.comTenba.comSaramonicUSA.comJupioUS.comFujifilmRoberts CameraUsedPhotoProNanliteSekonicGravity BackdropsElinchromAccsoon

Exploring AI’s Focus on Photography


This week features a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Mobilizing for Monuments documentary. I sat down with Anton Lorimer and Alastair Jolly, the creative minds behind this incredible project, which showcases the collaboration between Flickr, The Conservation Alliance, and Rivian to highlight the beauty and importance of America's national monuments.



In our conversation, Anton and Alastair share fascinating stories about the logistics and challenges they faced while creating the documentary. From planning the route to managing the production crew, they offer a unique perspective on what it takes to bring a project like this to life.







We also dive into the experience of driving Rivian electric vehicles through areas with minimal supercharger infrastructure. As photographers, we often find ourselves in remote locations, and Anton and Alastair discuss the innovative solutions they employed to ensure they could complete their journey while minimizing their environmental impact.



Throughout the episode, you'll gain insights into the creative process behind the documentary and learn how photography can be a powerful tool for storytelling and raising awareness about important issues like conservation.



Whether you're interested in the technical aspects of filmmaking, the adventure of a road trip through America's stunning landscapes, or the role of photography in environmental advocacy, this episode has something for everyone.



The film debuts on April 18th, click below to watch!











About Anton Lorimer:



Anton Lorimer



“I’m incredibly thankful to have the ability to create something from scratch. Each of the films I create is unique. They reflect the people and subjects I chase and document worldwide. And although the environments and stories may vary, there is always a constant passion. Passion for what they do, who they are, or what they value. I try to capture that. 



My style incorporates a cinematic feel with a sense of movement, pace, and unique perspective. This approach enhances the story by creating a feeling, a mood, or an experience.”



About Alastair Jolly:



Alastair Jolly



“I have been in the photography industry for over 20 years. Although I specialized in social and commercial photography throughout my professional career, I have always managed to find time to capture imagery for my own enjoyment and creativity. I find my creativity pulls me in different directions frequently while photographing. 



I am as happy photographing long-exposure sea and cityscapes as I am in the middle of a vast landscape or, indeed, on a Photowalk around a city. Now with my roles at SmugMug & Flickr, I am very fortunate to travel frequently, work with the best photographers in the world, and always find time for just me and my camera.”



Check out SmugMug films:http://www.smugmug.com/films





Capturing Conservation: Inside the Mobilizing for Monuments Road Trip


In this encore replay, my friend, Jeffrey Totaro, an architectural photographer, joined the show to share his journey and the lessons learned in crafting a robust storage and backup system for his work. Jeffrey's insight is particularly valuable because he navigated through the complexities of digital storage, ensuring his valuable work and client projects are secured against potential data loss.



Throughout our conversation, Jeffrey highlighted his transition from traditional storage methods, like burning DVDs and using external hard drives, to adopting a sophisticated network-attached storage (NAS) solution. His experience underscores not just the evolution of digital storage over the years but also the importance of having a reliable system that can grow with one's needs. 



We discussed his early days of dealing with limited storage options, the eventual shift to Drobo systems, and finally, his current setup using Synology units. This journey is a testament to the need for adaptability and foresight in managing digital assets.



Key points from our discussion include:




* The challenges of managing and storing digital files have evolved significantly, from burning DVDs to sophisticated NAS systems.



* Jeffrey transitioned through various storage solutions, including Drobos, before settling on a Synology NAS system, illustrating the importance of a scalable and reliable storage setup.



* The setup involves multiple Synology units, including an off-site backup solution, highlighting the critical need for redundancy in data storage.



* Network-attached storage (NAS) offers greater flexibility and access compared to direct-attached storage (DAS), a crucial consideration for creative professionals managing large volumes of digital assets.



* Jeffrey's approach to data storage emphasizes the significance of a well-thought-out backup strategy, incorporating both on-site and off-site backups to safeguard against data loss.



* The discussion also touched on the practical aspects of implementing such a system, including the use of 10 gigabit Ethernet for faster data transfer and the integration of UPS systems for data protection during power outages.




This conversation not only sheds light on the technical aspects of digital storage but also underscores the importance of being proactive and meticulous in protecting our digital creations. As creative professionals, the value of our work often resides in these digital files, making their security and accessibility paramount. Jeffrey's experience and insights serve as a valuable guide for anyone navigating the complex landscape of digital storage and backup solutions.



Links mentioned in the presentation:



Synology (filtered for BTRFS & Snapshots)SpaceRex Website:SpaceRex YouTube:<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://eshop.macsales.com/item/OWC/TB3EX4M2/?utm_source=google&utm;_medium=shoppingengine&utm;_campaign=googlebase&utm;_term=&utm;_campaign=PMax:+External+drives+(smart+shopping)+US&utm;_source=google&utm;_medium=cpc&hsa;_acc=9360794409&hsa;_cam=17553315506&hsa;_grp=&hsa;_ad=&hsa;_src=x&hsa;_tgt=&hsa;_kw=&hsa;_mt=&hsa;_net=adwords&hsa;_ver=3&gclid;=CjwKCAjwq-WgBhBMEiwAzKSH6L2BRMzGvzxe8-bwBIQHMhNm1uOt1Xct7tLXkGi_UFOpCAJciYYl3hoCZ6IQAv...

Optimizing Digital Storage Strategies for Creatives — with Architectural Photographer Jeffrey Totaro


Today I'm thrilled to present an encore presentation of one of the most captivating discussions from the "This Week in Photo" podcast. Dive into the ethereal world of light painting with our distinguished guests, Kim Henry and Eric Paré, who have mastered the art of using light as their brush and the night sky as their canvas.



A Journey into Light Painting



Light painting isn't just a photographic technique; it's a form of art that allows photographers to weave light into the fabric of their images, creating something truly magical. In this episode, Kim and Eric take us behind the lens to share their journey, challenges, and the sheer joy of creating with light.



What You'll Discover:




The Foundations: Even if you're new to light painting, our guests break down the essentials you need to get started.



Creative Techniques: From basic strokes to complex compositions, discover the techniques that make each piece unique.



The Gear Guide: Find out what tools you need to begin your light painting adventure.



Stories Behind the Shots: Every image tells a story. Hear about the inspirations and experiences behind some of Kim and Eric's most memorable photographs.




Eric on getting noticed:




https://youtu.be/d9mEw479on8?si=vZfpFyiTvbK7oR3y









©Eric Paré and Kim Henry



©Eric Paré and Kim Henry



©Eric Paré and Kim Henry



©Eric Paré and Kim Henry



©Eric Paré and Kim Henry



©Eric Paré and Kim Henry



©Eric Paré and Kim Henry



©Eric Paré and Kim Henry



©Eric Paré and Kim Henry



©Eric Paré and Kim Henry



©Eric Paré and Kim Henry



©Eric Paré and Kim Henry








Whether you're looking to explore a new photography genre or wanting to add some new techniques to your skillset, this episode is a beacon of knowledge and inspiration. Light painting offers endless creative possibilities, and who better to guide you through it than two of the most innovative photographers in the field?



We invite you to watch the interview, be inspired, and perhaps start your own journey into the fascinating world of light painting. Remember, the only limit is your imagination!



About



Eric Paré and Kim Henry meld their love for performance art, photography, travel, and the mesmerizing art of light painting into a singular, vibrant lifestyle. Armed with their innovative light-painting tubes, they traverse breathtaking landscapes worldwide, crafting extraordinary images where light painting meets natural beauty. They generously share insights into their creative process, offering tips and techniques every step of the way.



When not adventuring abroad, this dynamic duo can be found in their Montreal studio, where dance and movement are captured in stunning detail using a sophisticated 360° system equipped with 176 cameras. This blend of studio precision and the spontaneity of outdoor shoots fuels their artistic evolution, allowing them to explore the full spectrum of their craft. Their distinctive work has caught the eye of major media outlets like CNN, MTV, BBC, and TEDx, and they've collaborated on high-profile campaigns for brands including Audi, Apple, Adobe, HP, ESPN, Intel, Canon, and Microsoft.



Recent ventures have seen Eric, Kim, and their team at major events such as Coachel...

Encore: Unlocking the Mysteries of Light Painting with Kim Henry & Eric Paré


In this special episode, we dive deep into the heart of the evolution of Flickr with Ben MacAskill, the COO of SmugMug and Flickr (and TWiP!) 



After leading a celebratory photowalk group down The Embarcadero in San Francisco, Frederick sat down with Ben to discuss the pivotal moments, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped the platform and an entire generation of photographers and visual storytellers. From its early days to its acquisition by SmugMug, Ben shares insider stories, personal insights, and a glimpse into the future of this iconic digital space. 



Listen to the full interview and join us in celebrating two decades of Flickr!! 



About Ben MacAskill







Ben MacAskill is a prominent figure in the digital photography world, serving as the President and COO of SmugMug, Flickr, and This Week in Photo (TWiP). With a career spanning over two decades, he has dedicated his professional life to enhancing online experiences for photography enthusiasts. Under his leadership, SmugMug, a family-run company founded in 2002 by his family members Don and Chris MacAskill, has grown into a leading image hosting and sharing service. It offers a platform for users to upload photos and videos, sell digital and print media, and provide specialized services for professional photographers. 



Notably, SmugMug acquired Flickr in 2018, a move to revitalize the iconic photo-sharing service. Ben has played a crucial role in this transition, ensuring the preservation and growth of Flickr's extensive photo collections for future generations. His efforts have also extended to establishing The Flickr Foundation, an initiative focused on safeguarding photography's cultural and historical value for posterity.




* Flickr: http://www.flickr.com



* Join the TWiP Flickr Group: https://www.flickr.com/groups/twip




Key discussion points:




* Flickr's Core Mission and Vision: Emphasizing the platform's dedication to elevating the artistry and memories of photographers, Ben outlines Flickr's commitment to serving as a nurturing space for photography enthusiasts. Timestamp: 00:06:30



* Strategic Acquisition and Growth: Ben reflects on SmugMug's acquisition of Flickr, shedding light on the aligned values and aspirations to preserve Flickr's legacy while steering it toward sustainable innovation. 00:10:45



* Overcoming Technical Challenges: The conversation dives into the monumental effort of migrating Flickr's vast data to AWS, highlighting the technical hurdles and strategic triumphs that ensured Flickr's operational resilience. 00:15:20



* Community Engagement and UI Enhancements: Ben discusses Flickr's focus on fostering community engagement and the ongoing efforts to enhance the user interface, balancing new feature integration with maintaining the platform's core user experience. 00:20:55



* Embracing Artificial Intelligence: Offering insights into the role of AI in photography, Ben presents a thoughtful perspective on AI's creative potential and ethical considerations within Flickr's ecosystem. 00:25:40










TWiP 831 – Focus Lost: Why CES 2024 Didn’t Click for Photographers

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