Photo Chat with Matt

I tried the Meta Ray Ban smart glasses so you don’t have to. In this bonus episode I’m giving my honest thoughts after using them for a bit… and spoiler alert, I won’t be keeping them. I’m chatting about what I hoped they’d do, what actually happened, and why they just didn’t work for me. From a photographer’s point of view, they sounded great on paper, but in reality? Not so much. If you’re on th...

Photographers, we need to talk. If you’ve ever found yourself making content that sounds like “this is why I don’t give RAWs” or “photography is a real job actually” then you might be speaking to the wrong people. In this episode I’m chatting about the difference between educating your dream clients and arguing with strangers who were never going to book you anyway. I’ll share why rant-style conte...

Two years ago I hit rock bottom. I got screwed over by a job that left me in a lot of debt, my mental health took a massive hit, I'd totally abandoned my business and I went through a breakup after three years in a toxic relationship. It felt like everything was crumbling around me. But in the last 18 months, I built my business back from the ground up. I turned everything around and created a lif...

I started out as a videographer before moving into photography full time. Over the years, I have shot dozens of weddings as a videographer and worked on commercials, live TV, TV shows, documentaries, and more. Lately, I have seen more photographers trying to offer video alongside their photography, so in this episode, I am breaking down the key similarities and differences between the two. I am al...

One thing I hear at pretty much every wedding is, How are you so chilled out? Meanwhile, I see people on Facebook and Reddit constantly talking about stressful wedding situations. But honestly, for me, the wedding day is the easiest part of the whole process. In this episode, I am breaking down exactly why I stay so calm. My documentary style means I do not stress over little things, my prep befor...

Wedding hot takes are back, and this time, my Instagram followers have sent in their most controversial opinions about weddings in 2025. From whether speeches should be scrapped entirely to why we should never work more than 10 hour days, I am diving into all of it. Should photographers be required to store photos forever? Should planners stop acting like gatekeepers? And is it finally time to say...

Photographing your first wedding soon? In this episode, I’m sharing some of my best tips (including some ones you might not have heard before) that will help you feel prepared and confident on the big day! From practical hacks like setting the timeline as your lock screen and using Google Maps to scope out the venue, to game changing advice on communication, backup plans, and staying energized, th...

Lately, I’ve been seeing so many people online stressed about their Instagram likes, follower counts, and reel views. And honestly? It’s time to stop caring. In this episode, I’m breaking down why obsessing over numbers is a waste of time and energy—especially if you’re a photographer or creative business owner. I’ll dive into: - Why social media stats don’t define your success - The never-ending...

This week, I’m tackling a hot topic in the photography world: Should you ever post your second shooter’s photos? Legally, you might have the right to use their work if it’s in your contract, but does that make it ethically or morally right? It’s time to pause, rethink the “industry standards,” and examine if we’re treating second shooters fairly. In this episode, I’m sharing listener perspectives...

This week, it’s all about your hot takes! Listeners sent in their spiciest opinions, and I’m here to read them out and give my thoughts. From whether content creation is the coolest new niche (spoiler: I think it is!) to the age-old debate of creative eye vs. expensive gear, and even the controversy over photographers keeping shoot locations private—we’re covering it all. It’s a fun, chill episode...

In this festive episode, I’m sharing my plans for a Christmas photoshoot with a bit of a twist—using Vaseline on the lens to get an old-timey vibe! I also chat about staying consistent on TikTok, ignoring the haters, and focusing on what really matters. Plus, I talk about why I’m making changes now instead of waiting for the new year and also dive into some cozy Christmas randomness to get us all...

When I first started photography, there were so many things I wish someone had told me. Of course, we all grow through our own mistakes, and I wouldn’t trade the lessons I’ve learned for anything. But let’s be honest: some advice would’ve saved me time, money, and a lot of stress! In this episode, I’m sharing the top things I wish I knew when I started my photography journey. From knowing your wor...

In this episode of Photo Chat with Matt , Matt (@mattdoddphoto) dives into the fascinating connection between his early career in film and TV and the meticulous storage practices he applies to photography today. Inspired by his time working with Hollywood professionals on high-stakes productions, Matt shares his golden rules for file safety—ensuring you never lose a client’s precious photos. From...

In this relaxed and festive episode of Photo Chat with Matt , Matt (@mattdoddphoto) gets into the Thanksgiving spirit by sharing what he’s grateful for this year. From the growth of the podcast to connecting with listeners like you, it’s a heartfelt reflection on the little and big things that make life special. Matt also shares stories of his British take on Thanksgiving traditions, including cel...

Black Friday is just around the corner, sparking a buzz of excitement (and questions) across the photography community. Should wedding photographers jump on the Black Friday bandwagon? Is running a sale the right move for your brand, and if so, how do you craft the perfect promotion? In this episode, Matt dives deep into the strategies, challenges, and creative possibilities that Black Friday brin...

In this episode, Matt dives into why social media isn’t all about instant results and how taking time to reflect can be a game-changer. He also tackles the big question: What time should you really show up for a dinner reservation? (Your answers are in the mix!) Plus, Matt chats about whether wedding albums and physical media are making a comeback and shares his thoughts on LSU bringing a live tig...

Happy Halloween! 🎃 In this spooky special, Matt is joined by fellow photographer Becky Goligy to read and react to your photography horror stories ! From gear disasters to terrifying client situations, they dive into some of the creepiest, funniest, and most shocking tales from the photography world. Get ready for a mix of laughs, spooky surprises, and a few lessons learned from some truly horrif...

IIn this episode, Matt dives into how he faced one of his biggest wedding photography fears on purpose —and why challenging your long-held photography habits might just make you a better creative. Whether you're a wedding photographer, portrait pro, or hobbyist, this episode will inspire you to break out of your comfort zone and try something new behind the lens. Matt also shares a hilarious story...

This week, Matt picks up where last week’s episode left off, diving into the little things that really grind his gears as a photographer. From awkward client requests to those moments that test your patience, this episode is an honest and relatable look at the challenges of life behind the lens. But that’s not all—Matt shares more of your submissions, answers your burning questions, and somehow co...

What really grinds your gears as a photographer? This week, Matt dives into the submissions you sent in, sharing your funniest, most relatable, and downright frustrating pet peeves from life behind the lens. From unappreciative clients to unpredictable weather, we’re talking about all the little things that make photographers say, “Why me?!” Matt also adds his own spin, sharing a few personal stor...

Photo Chat with Matt is BACK after the summer break, and we’re kicking things off with an exciting guest! This week, Matt is joined by the talented Ingrid Johnson (@imagerybyingrid) for an inspiring conversation about all things CINEMATIC PHOTOGRAPHY. Together, they dive into what makes cinematic shots so compelling, how to elevate your personal brand as a photographer, and share their thoughts on...

This week on Photo Chat with Matt, we’re diving deep into life lessons—because being a great photographer isn’t just about nailing the technical skills. Matt (@mattdoddphoto) shares why personal growth and self-improvement are just as important as sharpening your craft, both behind the lens and beyond. We’re also reading your amazing “life lessons” submissions and talking about the return of Pumpk...

This week, Matt (@mattdoddphoto) is joined by the brilliant Elee Smith (@eleesmithphoto) to talk all things marketing, sales, and advertising for photographers! With her incredible background in marketing, Elee shares game-changing insights and actionable advice that photographers and creatives can use to boost their business. From building a solid brand to reaching your ideal clients, this episod...

This week, Matt (@mattdoddphoto) is joined by Kansas City photographer and model Rue (@ruesdisposable) for a fascinating conversation about what it’s like to be on both sides of the camera. From capturing the perfect shot to striking the perfect pose, Rue brings a unique perspective to the world of photography and modeling. They also dive into some hot takes about the photo and modeling world, sha...

This week, Matt is joined by California wedding photographer and bride-to-be Elizabeth Aydlette (@elizabethaydlettephoto) for a fun and insightful chat about all things wedding photography ! Elizabeth shares her unique perspective on planning her own wedding as a wedding photographer, offering tips and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t want to miss. They dive into the challenges and joys of capt...