The MOOD Podcast

In this episode of Moments of Mood, I talk about something that many people ask me about: how to get better portraits! And you guessed it, it's not about what gear you use or what lighting you have. This all helps, of course, but really the true magic comes from how you garner connection and trust. Please listen, and I'll explain how. _______________________________________ Message me, l...

"Nothing will come from doing nothing." Cam Stables is a filmmaker and photographer whose journey spans theatre, television, and visual storytelling with a cinematic flair. From early iMovie edits to directing for major brands like Mercedes-Benz and Canon, Cam’s work is rooted in authenticity, emotional impact, and a love for travel. He joins me to unpack the highs and lows of a creative...

“When Was the Last Time a Photo Meant Something to You?” What if photography wasn’t just about what you see — but about what you feel ? In this episode of Moments of Mood - each episode now released every other week in between guest episodes - I share a deeply personal story that reshaped the way I saw photography forever.  What this short episode covers: The difference between photos that look go...

“What are you passionate about outside of photography?” Two years after appearing as the first-ever guest on The MOOD Podcast, cultural photographer Cam Vaughne returns for a full-circle conversation that’s both deeply personal and universally relevant. Known for his culturally sensitive storytelling and ability to capture the essence of life in Bali and beyond, Cam has undergone significant trans...

Is photography education today more about selling than actually teaching?  Are we losing the art of problem-solving in the pursuit of easy answers? Joe Edelman, an award-winning photographer, educator, and mentor, has spent over six decades shaping the industry. From his early days as a newspaper photojournalist to pioneering creative fashion and portrait photography, Joe’s passion lies in helping...

Richard Corman has spent over four decades photographing some of the most iconic figures in history, from Madonna and Nelson Mandela to Philip Seymour Hoffman and Muhammad Ali. Trained under the legendary Richard Avedon, his portraits are known for their raw emotion, authenticity, and storytelling depth. In this episode, we learn about Richard's extraordinary journey, exploring how he connect...

"Life leaves marks etched within us" - how do we turn those marks into purpose?  Indi Casa is a filmmaker and photographer whose work bridges the gap between visual storytelling and commercial videography. His upcoming documentary, Indyquay , is an unfiltered exploration of his personal journey—retracing his past, seeking his roots, and capturing the raw essence of human connection. Thro...

When you witness war up close, do you still believe in humanity? Natalie Keyssar is a Brooklyn-based documentary photographer whose work delves into the personal impact of political turmoil, conflict, and migration. With a background in painting and illustration, her perspective has led her to cover some of the most pressing global issues, from Venezuela to Ukraine. Her award-winning photography h...

What does it take to capture the most important images of the biggest day of peoples lives? Gigi de Manio is an acclaimed wedding photographer renowned for her ability to capture raw, emotional, and timeless moments. With a background in psychology, she brings a deep understanding of human connection to her work, ensuring every image tells a meaningful story. The discussion highlights the emotiona...

“We need to completely change the way we think. Science can give us the data, but what is the solution to greed?” Jorik Dozy , visionary filmmaker and co-founder of Studio Birthplace, speaks passionately about using film as a catalyst for change. Through his work, Jorik amplifies eco-conscious narratives, tackling urgent environmental and social issues with visually striking and emotionally powerf...

What does it truly mean to belong, and how do our stories shape the connections we make? Benjamin Rasmussen is an acclaimed photographer whose work explores themes of identity, belonging, and societal narratives. With roots in the Faroe Islands, the Philippines, and the United States, Benjamin’s multicultural upbringing profoundly influences his storytelling. As well as his work being featured in...

"Photography is an art form that requires intention, creation, and a willingness to make photos, not just take photos." Doron Gild is a photographer whose work blurs the boundaries between fine art and commercial photography. Known for his ability to create visually striking and emotionally resonant portraits, Doron’s images tell layered stories that reflect the individuality of his subj...

What's the emotional cost of documenting humanity's darkest moments? Dr. Lauren Walsh is a professor, author, and thought-leader in the realms of photojournalism and visual storytelling, and in this episode she reveals the profound responsibilities photojournalists carry in documenting conflict and crises while addressing the ethical dilemmas they face. We also talk about mental health c...

What's the secret to finding humanity in the most unexpected places? Rick Smolan is a world-renowned photographer and CEO of Against All Odds Productions. Creator of the groundbreaking Day in the Life series, his illustrious career in photography showcases the transformative power of storytelling through imagery. Rick has spent decades pushing boundaries with his work, which has spanned conti...

What does it mean to preserve a culture through photography in a world that is constantly changing? Sebastián Belaustegui, widely known as 'Suki', is a cultural photographer whose work spans over 3 decades, documenting the stories, traditions, and rituals of indigenous communities across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Through his portraits and projects like Guardians of Time , Suki has...

“My goal is nothing less than to change the way you see.” This powerful declaration from Art Wolfe, a world-renowned photographer, perfectly encapsulates his life’s mission of reshaping perspectives through the lens of photography. Known for his breathtaking images of nature, wildlife, and diverse cultures, he has published over 100 books, hosted the Emmy-nominated TV series Travels to the Edge ,...

Photography isn't just about capturing moments; it's about capturing mindsets, struggles, and victories. As we celebrate reaching 50,000 subscribers, I reflect on why I started this podcast in the first place, and what I hope to bring you in the future. We are just beginning, and hope that you can continue to join me for what's to come! Your feedback is my guide though, as we explor...

What keeps a creative person going despite setbacks? Dario Viegas is a photographer and filmmaker who is celebrated for his minimalist style and keen eye for composition, as well as his ability to connect art with storytelling. From a challenging upbringing in Portugal to then living in various places around the world, Dario discovered his passion for photography through a life-altering journey wh...

Are boundaries important in photography, and does the 'perfect shot' exist? Ian Plant is a renowned landscape and wildlife photographer who left a career in law to dedicate himself fully to photography. Founder of an acclaimed educational platform, Photo Masters, and author of an incredibly popular and instructional book, Ian is celebrated for his unique style and ability to inspire phot...

Can failing at something you love lead you towards finding your true passion?  Vanessa Joy is a celebrated wedding photographer, Canon Explorer of Light and global photography educator. Known for her 'timeless' approach and ability to resonate and connect with clients, Vanessa has built a long standing career that blends photography, education, and entrepreneurship. With over 20 years of...

Can understanding your struggles lead to better art? Sean Tucker is a UK-based photographer, filmmaker, and author renowned for his philosophical approach to photography and creativity. With a journey spanning from pastoral work to professional photography, Sean has cultivated a unique perspective on art, fulfillment, and the pursuit of meaning. His acclaimed YouTube channel inspires audiences wor...

What does it mean to truly connect with your subject? For Mary Vance, a renowned Seattle-based photographer specializing in capturing high school senior portraits, it’s all about authenticity, natural settings, and meaningful connections. Starting her journey with teenagers while still a teen herself, Mary has over 20 years of experience capturing the stories of young people with a unique approach...

Is it possible to leave everything behind and build a life that revolves around creativity and adventure? Lilia Siemens and Kai Schiffers, also known as 'Lilia and Kai', are a talented photography and filmmaking couple who embarked on an incredible journey in 2019. Leaving their corporate lives in Germany, they bought their first camera and set off on a global adventure with no set retur...

Is art coupled with our own struggles, and our own stories? In this episode, American photographer Josiah Gordon shares his journey from a childhood inspired by National Geographic to a career focused on the connections between people, nature and himself. He discusses the creative process behind his work while examining the balance between local communities and the environment in remote destinatio...

What if the path to personal growth could align with creative success? Ebrahim Turner, a young entrepreneur from UK, shares his story of moving from seeking outside approval to finding real fulfilment within. He opens up about how his time in Bali helped him reconnect with his creativity, blending personal freedom with his work as an artist and entrepreneur. Ebrahim talks about how mindfulness and...