The Perceptive Photographer

In episode 464 of the Perceptive Photographer podcast, we delve into an intriguing discussion on the importance of artists looking back at their own completed work. Contrasting the view of individuals who refrain from revisiting their past creations, I try to show that reviewing one’s work is crucial for evaluation and self-reflection. I also talk about the value of self-critique in the crea...

Dive into episode 436 of The Perceptive Photographer to explore the intertwining of camaraderie, standards, and idealism in photography. In this episode, I reflect on an owl photo adventure, revealing insights into how photographers can enhance their craft through communal experiences, precise goals, and a contagiously optimistic outlook. Key Topics Community matters in photography Setting expecta...

This week, we dive into five bad habits that you may have that are blocking your photographic process. Hopefully, in the podcast, you can see how to challenge your approach, shake off stubbornness, improve your listening skills, and inspire action behind the lens. Tune in to sharpen your creative focus! Key Topics Holding onto things out of stubbornness The fallacy of needing to be right The criti...

Dive into the ideas of what makes a good photograph in this episode of the Perceptive Photographer podcast. In episode 461 we try to unlock what defines quality in a image and how our assessment of the subjective nature of good changes and evolves over time From engaging our emotions to shifting at our thinking, we talk about how to discover the key elements that make a photograph truly stand out....

As we start 2024 on the perceptive photographer, we dive into the nuances of photography in the digital age, challenging myths and embracing goals for 2024. Tune in for an insightful mix of critical thinking, resolutions, and the power of forgiveness in the creative journey. Key Topics The importance of reviewing assumptions in photography using film photography as more contemplative as an example...

The latest episode of The Perspective Photographer, number 459, dives into some thought-provoking perspectives on photography from some great quotes by other photographers. In these quotes, we see our need to connect to our work and subjects in a meaningful way to produce the best work possible. As we visit the quotes below we can start to see how images have the power to reveal secrets, capture h...

Ever thought being a dismal failure could be your best move? Dive into our exploration of failure as a stepping stone in photography and creativity on this episode of The Perceptive Photographer. Let’s wrap up 2023 by finding beauty in blunders and gaining growth through goof-ups. “Amazing things happen when we fail, and yet most of us work really hard not to be a failure or to appear as we...

This episode of the Perceptive Photographer podcast is all about listener questions. Starting with the common mistakes made by photographers while critiquing their work. We then look at strategies to tackle procrastination. We try to examine how many photos you need to take to get a good one. I reveal one of my most annoying work habits and how it impacts my photography. Finally, we talk about dea...

In this week’s podcast episode, we explore the use of 11 dynamic questions that are specifically designed to spark meaningful conversations about photography. Using these questions, you can easily discuss your work with your audience and, in turn, help them develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for your art. This can help create a stronger connection between you and your viewers, r...

This week’s perceptive photographer podcast dives into the dynamic interplay between time and creativity. This episode peels back the layers of how a non-linear approach to time can reshape our photographic journey and push the boundaries of our artistic process! “And yet we have memories and we have anticipation of the future, and we have all sorts of things that sort of shift our not...

In this perceptive photographer podcast this week we focus on how coming up with three key goals can make a difference in your work. From setting strategies for goal setting, exploring the impact of language in photography, connecting with your subject, and looking at history, social sharing, or business aspects of photography, getting the right goal can be a wonderful stepping stone to a deeper c...

In this episode of the Perceptive Photographer, we dive into the impacts of influences on our work. From life’s twists to jazz beats and social justice, explore the diverse elements that shape our sense of seeing. “Our influences come from a broader spectrum than just the other photographers.” Key Points Influences extend beyond photography Emotional life experiences as creative...

This week’s podcast explores the distinction between knowledge and wisdom in photography, emphasizing the importance of experience and trusting yourself. My goal is to encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, trust your existing skills, and take action to explore your creativity to have more uniqueness in your work. “Trust that you already know enough, trust that you already hav...

In this episode 451 of the Perceptive Photographer this week, I discuss the significance of commitment and personal growth in photography. By focusing on our unique perspectives and experiences to create meaningful images, I believe we end up capturing the essence of who we are in our photographs. I also talk about the need for continuous evolution and reinvention rather than staying stagnant. Key...

As a photographer, I believe it’s essential to step out of our comfort zones to improve the quality of our images. In this episode, I discuss the significance of exploring new techniques, embracing uncertainty, and actively engaging with the creative process. I also stress the importance of taking the time to sit with our feelings, identifying any issues that may be hindering us, and using a...

In the podcast this week, we take a look at ten thought-provoking questions that delve into the motivations, emotions, and personal approaches of photographers. It emphasizes the importance of paying attention and taking progressive steps forward in the creative journey. My goal this week is to help prompt you to reflect on the most amazing images and things you have witnessed through the lens and...

In a recent conversation with a friend, they mentioned they were moving on from a job. They had been there since the early days in the company and now found that too much had changed, and they felt as if they were having to be something they weren’t. Rather than focusing on doing what they love, it was all smart goals, stretch goals, meetings and delays. The whole reason they got into it was...

In the podcast this week, we take a look at how using metaphors and developing multiple metaphors in your photography can help you find a more exciting and consistent voice in your work. One of the questions I get asked frequently is what sort of equipment do I use to record my podcast. I have used a variety of equipment in the years that I have been recording, but here is the current list of equi...

I like to eat junk food. There are so many good cakes, pies, cookies, ice cream, funnel cakes and more. I also know that too much junk food isn’t good for me and causes all sorts of issues. I know what to do to eat healthy, but I only sometimes do it. I also have learned that dieting to fix an issue is a short-term fix and that the term diet isn’t something you do. It is what you actua...

We often hear that gear doesn’t (or does) matter. Those on the doesn’t matter side will discuss how great images are made independently of the gear used. However, in this week’s podcast, we take a look at how the gear you use impacts the type and style of work you do. We also look at how much of the reason we might buy gear that has no effect on our work. This leads us to the que...

This week is episode number 444 of the podcast. In honor of the episode number, we are looking at three lists of four great ways to improve, have fun and make more photographs. One of the questions I get asked frequently is what sort of equipment do I use to record my podcast. I have used a variety of equipment in the years that I have been recording, but here is the current list of equipment that...

Over the past few weeks, I have had a couple of questions sent to me in email that I thought were interesting topics for the podcast. While each question is unique, they sort of get to a central question when looking at our photography and deciding on images to keep or pass over. This week’s podcast dives into the questions of What makes a good photograph and how you choose between two simil...

In this week’s podcast, I talk about the importance of kindness and how that can make a difference in someone’s life even when you might not be aware. Nothing about photographs this week, but something bigger than all of that clicking and f/stops. One of the questions I get asked frequently is what sort of equipment do I use to record my podcast. I have used a variety of equipment in t...

In this week’s podcast, we talk about the importance of framing and the impacts framing has on compositions in photographs. I also make a personal plea for you to stop clicking on gear-related clickbait. One of the questions I get asked frequently is what sort of equipment do I use to record my podcast. I have used a variety of equipment in the years that I have been recording, but here is t...

I often hear photographers make things needlessly complicated, as if complexity is something to strive for. In this week’s podcast, we explore the idea of keeping things simple. The simpler, the better. Whether it’s discussing photographs, setting up Photoshop, or sharing prints, simplicity brings us happiness, productivity, and motivation. One of the questions I get asked frequently i...