Photo Chat with Matt

What does it really means to go above and beyond for your wedding clients? What is the bare minimum? From keeping online galleries accessible for years to sending same day sneak peeks, I share my approach to making sure the memories couples trust me with are treated with care and respect. I also dive into the little things that make a big difference: fast replies, remembering names, sending holida...

I dive into the heart of wedding photography and why storytelling always beats perfection. I talk about how I build a personal brand that attracts the right couples, what documentary style really means, and how I focus on capturing genuine moments instead of forcing them. I also chat about holiday traditions, why they look so different from family to family, and how I try to keep work in check dur...

In this episode, I dig into one of my favorite topics: failure . Not in a gloomy way, but in the way that actually helps you grow. I talk about why messing up is the secret ingredient to leveling up, and why the photographers you admire have racked up more losses than you’d ever guess. I open with the quote that kicked this whole episode off: “The master has failed more times than the beginner has...

In this relaxed Thanksgiving special, I’m settling in with a warm and reflective look back at the year. Grab your slice of pumpkin pie and cozy in for an honest episode where I talk about gratitude, growth and the moments that have shaped my 2025. I share what I’m truly thankful for in my photography life, from the trust my couples place in me to the milestones I’ve reached in my career. I talk ab...

I dive into the whole Black Friday conversation and what it really means for wedding photographers. I chat about why cutting your prices can quietly chip away at your brand and attract the wrong clients, and why holding your value is one of the strongest things you can do. Instead of slashing your packages, I talk through better ways to join the seasonal buzz, like offering small discounts on prin...

I’m talking about all the stuff photographers really don’t need. From pointless UV filters to endless gadgets, presets, and trendy upgrades, I’m breaking down the biggest money-wasters and myths in photography. I chat about why UV filters do more harm than good, why chasing gear won’t make you a better photographer, why you don't need the Canon R6iii and how to focus on actually improving your...

This week, I’m diving into all things film photography, from how to start shooting film to how you can use the off season to experiment and level up your craft. I chat about what makes film so special, the look and emotion you just can’t replicate digitally, and how slowing down to shoot film can make you a better photographer overall. I’ll share practical tips for beginners, what gear to start wi...

I’m talking all about the slow season and why it doesn’t have to be stressful. I’m sharing how I use these quieter months to recharge, get creative, and actually improve my business without panicking about bookings. From updating your portfolio, website, and client guides, to experimenting with new techniques or styled shoots, there’s so much you can do while things are a bit quieter. I’ll also ch...

In this episode I’m talking about something we don’t really chat about enough as photographers: actually looking after yourself. Being a full time photographer is amazing, but it’s also demanding, and if you don’t take care of your body and mind, it can really catch up with you. I share my own experiences and what’s worked for me when it comes to staying healthy, both physically and mentally. We’r...

I’m diving into the topic of ghosting, and since it’s Halloween season, it feels like the perfect time to talk about it. I’ve seen so many photographers stressing over clients who disappear after inquiring, and honestly, it’s just not worth your energy. In this episode, I share my honest thoughts on why you shouldn’t care if people ghost you, and why chasing replies only makes you look desperate,...

I’m sharing my honest thoughts on why real world experience beats a university degree every single time. I talk about my own journey of dropping out of uni, starting my business from scratch, and learning everything through doing. I’ll chat about why traditional education doesn’t always prepare you for the creative world, and why believing in yourself and just taking the leap is the best thing you...

This week I’m chatting about photography, but more importantly the stuff that makes a huge difference in how you treat your clients. From shooting a big London conference to working with the Minnesota Vikings, I’ve seen how the little touches and good customer service really stand out. I’ll share some stories, a few tips, and hopefully give you some ideas to level up the way you run your business.

In this episode, I dive into the dangers of comparing ourselves to other photographers. It's something we all do, often without realizing it, and it can stifle our creativity. I'll share personal stories and insights on why embracing our unique journey is crucial. Plus, I'll touch on the importance of focusing on our own growth rather than getting caught up in the highlight reels of ot...

In this episode of Photo Chat with Matt, I’m catching you up on my trip to the US. From Cannon Beach to Seattle, I’ve got some stories to share and a few thoughts on how travel always gives me a fresh spark for photography and life in general. I’ll chat about stepping out of your comfort zone, why I kinda fell in love with American life, and the idea of moving there. Plus, since booking season is...

In this episode, I dive into the controversial topic of discounts and giveaways in the photography industry. I passionately argue against these practices, emphasizing how they can devalue a brand and attract the wrong clientele. Through personal stories and analogies, I share my insights on maintaining confidence in pricing and the importance of valuing one's work. Tune in to hear why I believ...

In this episode of Photo Chat with Matt, I share five transformative tips that have elevated my photography game. From mastering composition and understanding light to the importance of backgrounds and learning flash, I dive deep into practical advice that can make a real difference. Plus, I'll talk about my recent travels and the unexpected Facebook group drama that sparked some insightful reflec...

In this episode I’m talking about how to stay calm and keep your head straight during busy season. I’ll share how I manage my time, set boundaries and still make space for actual life when work is at its peak. No overcomplicating things, just a chat about what’s worked for me and how you can get through the chaos without burning yourself out. Grab a brew and let’s talk about keeping it together wh...

In this episode, we’re diving into Lightroom and chatting about why you really don’t need to rely on presets. I’m breaking down what presets actually are, how you can build your own, and why learning how the tools work will take you so much further than copying someone else’s edit. We’ll talk tone curves, calibration, and all the good stuff that helps you find your own look. If you’ve ever felt lo...

You're an adult running a business. It’s time to act like it. In this episode of Photo Chat with Matt, I dive into the pitfalls that many photographers face, from venting about being ghosted to hosting ineffective giveaways. Discover the habits that might be holding you back and learn how to present your business with the professionalism it deserves. If you're ready to attract more clients, be tak...

Let’s talk about what actually makes a photo good . Do you really need every single shot to be sharp as anything? Or is there something even more powerful in those blurry hugs, the slightly missed focus, the real messy moments? In this episode I’m just chatting through some thoughts on how wedding photography’s changed, what people used to think was ‘professional’, and why for me, it’s always goin...

Whether you're shooting your first wedding or you're deep into double digits, these are the 5 things I think every wedding photographer needs to hear going into 2025. From client experience to how you actually show up on the day, this one’s packed with practical stuff and a few hard truths. Grab a brew and let’s get into it. Follow me on Instagram: @mattdoddphoto

Thinking of switching from Canon to Sony just because a YouTuber told you to? Let’s talk about it. In this episode I’m sharing my honest take on why gear is just a tool, why I don’t care what camera brand you use, and how switching for the wrong reasons can actually hold you back. I’ve used Canon and Sony — R5ii, R6, A1, A7iv — and I’ll tell you this: they all do great things. So let’s stop obsess...

In this episode I share my approach to wedding photography and why I do things differently by never posing couples in a staged way. I explain why my more 'documentary' style makes the images more authentic and how focusing on the real moments helps couples truly enjoy their wedding day. If you want to ditch the stiff poses and capture genuine connections this episode is for you. Follow alo...

In this episode I’m talking about the excuses we all make. The ones that stop us showing up, building our business or doing the thing we say we want to do. You’ll probably hear one and think yep… I’ve said that this week. I’ve been there too. Whether it’s telling yourself you’re not ready, you don’t have time, or you need everything to be perfect first… I’m breaking down some of the biggest ones I...

When you're starting out, it's so easy to fall into the same traps that tons of photographers do. In this episode, I’m breaking down some of the most common mistakes I see beginners making and sharing a bit of tough love to help you get ahead faster. Here’s what I cover: - Why watermarking your images is doing more harm than good. - The danger of obsessing over presets instead of learning...