Focused Professional

• Therese Asplund - Lighting the Path to Perfection

  Welcome to episode 28 of the Focused Professional Podcast. In this interview, Joe chats with Elinchrom Global Ambassador and Nikon Creator Therese Asplund. The acclaimed Swedish photographer has won many international titles and awards and is a Master Qualified European Photographer. Her prints consistently score highly in competitions, wowing the judges, and she has even managed an incredible perfect 100 at the prestigious Societies of Photographers print competition. In this exclusive interview, Therese shares her passion for lighting and the art of mastering shadows to sculpt beautiful portraits. Her creativity finds inspiration in the hardware store, swimming pool and wherever else she may go, using her imagination to re-purpose a potential prop or location. She might not easily settle into one approach or genre, but nevertheless, her eclectic approach still results in images that are recognisably her handiwork. Therese loves a challenge and isn't one for sitting back and taking things easy. She adapts her business to enable her to continue to be profitable despite economic downturns making it hard to raise prices, embracing new technology where it can help her as an artist and professional. At the same time, her motivation and enjoyment for her art remains the same as when it started - the joy of bringing happiness to others happy with her images. All images © Therese Asplund - used here with permission See Therese's website for more of her work and follow her on Instagram to keep up with the latest images and behind the scenes footage.

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• Seeking Authenticity with Sissela Johansson

  Join us in Episode 27 for a deep and personal conversation with Danish photographer, tutor, and model Sissela Johansson. Now based in Sweden, Sissela lived in America for a number of years and has experience of running a business in different contexts and with different aims. After initially following the advice of established photographers on how to "succeed," she took her own path that felt more authentic to herself. She is now reinventing herself again in an even more profound way, redefining success and prioritising what is truly meaningful for her. Sissela is exploring what authenticity looks like for her, following her heart and developing a lifestyle that is sustainable in many more ways. Treating others with care and humanity is at the heart of her photography ethos. Whether she is creating portrait images or intimate boudoir, Sissela seeks to really understand and present the true nature of her clients. And this is something she is passionate about sharing with her students too. Yes, lighting, posing, props and location play a role. But, for Sissela the person in front of the lens is first and foremost a human being to be respected and valued. Sharing her experiences as a model, she also pleads with photographers to engage with people even in busy convention booths. Portrait images are co-creations and this works best if we really work with models instead of treating them impersonally as objects to photograph.  This frank and open conversation offers alternative perspectives on working in the photography industry. Sissela Johansson offers her take on what her career has brought her and encourages you to think about what you really want before getting caught up in the hype or following the crowds. All images © Sissela Johansson - used here with permission Visit Sissela's website for examples of her work and teaching. Keep up with her also on Instagram    

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• Antonio Bernardino Coelho - Abstract, Buildings, Commercial & more

  In episode 26 we chat with award-winning photographer Antonio Bernardino Coelho from Portugal. Antonio has gathered numerous accolades from international photography competitions, including the prestigious Sony Awards and the Society of Photographers. In this interview he shares how he takes inspiration from everything - big or small. Antonio juggles family life, working as an engineer and his various hobbies and interests including his passion for photography yet still manages to produce high quality images that wow judges. He is both artist and scientist, observer and storyteller with a variety of influences that have fuelled his ever-evolving style. Most known for still life and architectural images, it all began with a trip to Cuba and a fascination with its culture. His attitude is to give things a go - just try! So we find a diverse portfolio that showcases many genres, all done to a high level. His art draws on his personality and his values, delivering clear, uncluttered messages to the viewer. From fungi in the local countryside to architecture in the city and home to his tabletop creations, Antonio brings his take on the world around him. We invite you to listen to hear the stories behind popular series such as "State of Mind", how a bucket of staples led to a conceptual cityscape and his big dreams of travelling if he gets the chance. Join us for this exclusive rare interview. All images © Antonio Bernardino Coelho - used here with permission Discover more of Antonio's work on Instagram  

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• Top Dog Pet Tog - Jessica McGovern

  Welcome to episode 25 of the Focused Professional Podcast. In this episode, Joe chats with Jessica McGovern, a renowned pet photographer and Fellow of both the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP) and the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers (SWPP). As well as the challenges of running multiple businesses, Jessica & her husband have taken on a huge renovation project in Scotland. We find out how that is going and the benefits she is reaping for her mental health. Jessica loves animals and is able to form a rapid and strong rapport with dogs that allows her to create stunning images that have won her numerous awards and photographer of the year titles. She also loves to learn and devours new knowledge from practical hands-on land management to textbooks on psychology. Her energy and enthusiasm extends to her online mentoring groups in That Tog Spot, where she helps other photographers to develop their skills and businesses, and her students have gone on to become award-winners in their own right. Our in-depth discussion leads us through how to get the most out of our strengths and considers the balance between building a business that works for ourselves as well as our target market. Jessica also speaks about some of the challenges as well as the advantages of her autistic mind, inviting us all to consider what "unfair advantages" we might bring into our businesses as well as the difficulties we can face.  Jessica reveals how her training as a competition judge has affected the way she views her own images. Everything she does is analysed and a strategy is formed to help her reach her goals. Listen in for valuable insights into overcoming limitations, finding fulfilment and the ever-present complexities of communication between different minds.  To see more of Jessica's work please visit her website. For details of her teaching and mentoring go to That Tog Spot. You can also follow on Instagram and find her videos on YouTube. All images © Jessica McGovern - used here with permission Find out more about strengths and how to discover and use them on Joe's strengths coach page.

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• Cracking Headshots with Hannah Couzens

  In Episode 24 Joe is joined by portrait and headshot specialist Hannah Couzens. A Sony camera ambassador, Profoto educator, and award-winning business owner known for her live stage demonstrations, Hannah is a leading light in the photography world. Listen as she shares her passion for teaching and offers insights into achieving powerful portraits. For her, sharing knowledge and experience is vital for the ongoing health of our industry. Hannah is a natural whether working one to one or speaking on stage in front of hundreds of people. Her friendly, straightforward manner help her to connect with everyone from photography beginners to seasoned celebrities coming for a headshot. She is keen for people to learn in depth, not just copying shots but being able to have real control to create their own masterpieces. Balancing professional life with personal commitments is a challenge for any professional and Hannah shares how becoming a parent has reshaped her approach to work and business. She discusses the stress and pressures of being self-employed in the photography industry, offering insights into how she copes and manages her busy schedule. Whether it is in response to new technology, our evolving industry or changes in her own life, Hannah adapts and keeps moving forward, leading the way for others. There are many skills needed to be a consistently high quality portrait photographer. As well as the technical side, Hannah emphasises the importance of empathy, connecting with the subject and helping people to feel at ease. She adapts her approach to suit the situation, whether that is for a confident executive, busy celebrity or fearful individual struggling with being in front of the camera. This episode is packed full of important lessons for aspiring photographers and professionals alike. Hannah provides practical tips on building a successful photography business, connecting with clients, and staying true to your style. Whether you're an experienced photographer or just starting out, listen in to learn and be inspired. Visit Hannah Couzens' website Keep up with her regular news on Instagram All images © Hannah Couzens - used here with permission

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