The Beginner Photography Podcast

• Honoring the Human Touch in a World of AI Photography with Shane Balkowitsch

  #581 Shane Balkowitsch is a dedicated wet plate collodion photographer whose passion for history, authenticity, and the human experience shapes both his artwork and his views on the future of photography. In this episode, Shane shares the journey that led him from having no experience with a camera to mastering one of photography’s oldest analog processes—a craft involving silver on glass that dates back to 1851. He highlights how the permanence and tangible nature of wet plate images, created through capturing real light and human presence, starkly contrast with the ephemeral, intangible nature of digital and AI-generated images.KEY TOPICS COVEREDDefining Photography in the Age of AI - Shane and Raymond dissect the core of what makes an image a "photograph," highlighting the necessity of light, a subject, and a photosensitive medium or sensor. They underscore the risk of confusing AI-based image generation—which lacks these elements—with authentic photography, causing potential chaos in art, media, and historical documentation.Ethics, Ownership, and Historical Accuracy - Shane raises significant ethical concerns about AI training on billions of images without permission, including his own work, and questions who owns the resulting visuals. He warns about the dangers this presents to historical accuracy, imagining future scenarios where AI-generated portraits of people who never existed could mislead researchers or the public, blurring the line between fact and fiction.Terminology, Transparency, and the Future of Art - Shane advocates for distinct labeling of AI-generated imagery—suggesting terms like "promptography"—to prevent confusion and uphold the integrity of photography. He stresses the need for transparency so viewers know whether an image is a genuine photograph or an AI creation, believing that honesty and accurate terminology are essential as technology continues to evolve.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSWet Plate Collodion Photography: An early analog photographic process invented in 1851, involving capturing images on glass plates coated with chemicals sensitive to light. Shane’s work in this medium exemplifies photography’s physical, archival, and intentional qualities.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSWhat makes an image a photograph, and why does this distinction matter when considering AI-generated content?Should AI-generated images be considered art? If so, who holds the authorship—the prompt user or the AI?How might the widespread adoption of AI imagery change the way we perceive, document, or trust history?RESOURCES:Visit Shane Balkowitsch's Website - https://nostalgicglasswetplatestudio.zenfolio.com/Follow Shane Balkowitsch on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/balkowitsch/Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

  --------  

  57:37

  --------

  57:37
• Photo Q&A: Why Do My Photos Look Different on My Camera vs. Lightroom?

  #580 In Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I tackle listener-submitted questions for our monthly Photo Q&A session. We cover a variety of challenges that many beginner photographers run into—from understanding the difference between RAW and JPEG files, managing noise in corporate event shots, to building a strong portfolio through strategic “model calls.” I’ll also share practical insights on why your photos might look different across devices or editing programs, when to use settings like aperture priority or manual mode, and how to set up and communicate a successful portfolio shoot. Plus, we’ll get into deeper topics like how to price your work as a new photographer and whether AI editing tools are changing the value of getting things right in-camera. KEY TOPICS COVEREDRAW vs. JPEG & Display Differences - Raymond explains why photos often appear different on camera screens or phones compared to Lightroom. He outlines the technical reasons, including how cameras display a JPEG preview even for RAW shots, and how monitor quality and calibration affect perceived color and contrast. He demystifies RAW editing and encourages beginners to experiment with JPEGs if extensive editing isn’t required.Shooting Busy Events & Managing Noise - Responding to a question on noisy corporate event shots, Hatfield stresses the relationship between noise, ISO, and light quality. He recommends using manual mode for full ISO control and explains the importance of understanding light “quality vs. quantity” rather than relying solely on semi-automatic modes like aperture priority.Model Calls & Portfolio Building - Practical guidance is given for running a “model call” to expand one’s portfolio. Raymond highlights where and how to recruit volunteer models (or clients), setting clear expectations, the value exchange, and strategies to ensure you’re showcasing desired styles or filling portfolio gaps.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSRAW (Image Format): An unprocessed file that retains all data captured, offering maximum flexibility for editing, though often appearing flat until processed.Model Call: A public invitation (often via social media) for volunteers to participate in portfolio shoots, typically in exchange for free or discounted images.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSConsidering your current portfolio, what “gaps” could you fill with targeted model calls?How does understanding RAW vs. JPEG workflows shape your approach to in-camera settings and post-processing?Reflect on your pricing strategy: What personal factors (time, opportunity cost) might you consider before setting rates?Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

  --------  

  47:41

  --------

  47:41
• Gaining Access and Experience in Concert Photography with Zenia Monteagudo

  #579 Zenia Monteagudo is an experienced music and event photographer who has recently begun exploring family portraiture. Zenia shares her personalized journey into photography, starting from her early fascination with disposable and point-and-shoot cameras to a pivotal moment when she purchased a Sony camera on clearance at Target. This chance purchase set her on an unexpected path, leading to opportunities in music photography, including shooting concerts at iconic venues like Red Rocks.KEY TOPICS COVEREDStarting a Photography Journey & Building Confidence - Zenia’s chance transition from hobbyist to semi-professional highlights the role of curiosity and saying "yes" to new experiences, even without a portfolio. Building confidence can be a struggle, but validation from others—such as bands requesting to use her photos—provided the encouragement to pursue her passion professionally.Concert Photography: Skills, Challenges, and Opportunities - Zenia offers a frank look at shooting concerts, from initial “shot in the dark” gigs to handling pro gear, unpredictable lighting, and the high-energy atmosphere of music events. She emphasizes the need for adaptability, technical growth (moving from kit lenses and manual focus to more sophisticated equipment), and the thrill of capturing authentic moments.Transitioning Between Genres & The Power of Candid Photography - The episode contrasts concert photography with family portraiture and events, exploring Zenia’s process as she adapts to settings with different expectations, emotion levels, and technical requirements. Her candid approach, focused on real moments over posed photos, remains consistent.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSPhoto Pass: Special permission or credentials granted (often by a venue or band) allowing a photographer to access areas for professional photography, particularly in concert settings. It often requires a portfolio and/or assignment from a publication.Candid Photography: A style of photography where subjects are captured naturally, without posed arrangements or direct awareness of the camera. This approach centers on authenticity, emotion, and storytelling.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSWhat opportunities can arise from saying "yes" to experiences outside your comfort zone as a photographer?How does photographing candid moments at events or concerts build storytelling skills in photography?In what ways does the environment (concert, event, family session) influence the techniques and mindset you bring as a photographer?RESOURCES:Follow Zenia Monteagudo on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/zen_e_ah_/Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

  --------  

  45:23

  --------

  45:23
• Do You Have Gear Lust Or Photo Love

  #578 In this episode of the podcast, I deliver a thoughtful exploration into the emotional and psychological aspects that underlie the pursuit of photography. I dissect the difference between being infatuated with photography—often characterized by a focus on gear, novelty, and aesthetics (“lust”)—and a mature, enduring engagement with the craft, marked by sustained commitment and personal growth (“love”). Throughout the episode, I draw parallels between our relationships with people and with photography, making the argument that both require effort, patience, and vulnerability for genuine fulfillment. KEY TOPICS COVEREDLust vs Love in Photography - Raymond defines “lust” as the excitement for gear, newness, and surface-level satisfaction (like shooting shallow depth-of-field because you can), and contrasts this with “love,” which involves accepting photography’s frustrations, dedicating time to growth, and valuing the process.Overcoming Frustration and the Importance of Perseverance - The episode examines how photographers often feel discouraged when their skills or tools do not match their ambitions. Raymond stresses that this stage is not a signal to quit, but rather an invitation to invest more time, effort, and patience—transitioning from surface-level excitement to genuine artistic fulfillment.Concrete Methods to Deepen Engagement - Raymond provides actionable steps: carrying your camera everywhere, printing photographs, expressing gratitude for your camera through written reflection, and reading the camera’s manual thoroughly. These measures are designed to foster understanding, comfort, and growth—the core elements of a true “love” for the craft.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSThink back—what first attracted you to photography? How have your motivations evolved?Can you identify moments when photography felt like a chore? What helped you push through?What is one way you can spend more “quality time” with your camera this week?RESOURCES:Check out the Canon Selphy Printer - Affordable home photo printer for bringing digital photos to life.Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

  --------  

  38:18

  --------

  38:18
• From Trading Airbnb Stays to Shooting Pro Sports with Shane Wilkie

  #577 Shane Wilkie is a community member who has made impressive strides in sports, event, and commercial photography since his last appearance. The discussion centers around building confidence as a photographer, the evolution of photographic style, and how personal projects can drive both skill and personal growth. He discusses his experiences building a portfolio, including how trading photography for accommodations with Airbnb hosts opened doors to paid commercial work. Shane also delves into tackling nerves while photographing people, the differences between event and action sports photography, and how personal projects—particularly those connected to his personal history—help him process and express complex emotions.KEY TOPICS COVEREDBuilding Confidence and Portfolio Through Experience and Trade - Shane explains his strategy for gaining experience—offering his photography services to Airbnb hosts and local businesses in exchange for accommodations or meals. This approach allowed him to experiment with styles, build a diverse portfolio, and transition into paid commercial work, while ensuring creative freedom to try new techniques.Expressing Emotion and Storytelling in Photography - The conversation explores how to move beyond technically good images to ones that evoke emotion and tell stories. Shane shares insights on making images relatable, using techniques like an intervalometer for candid shots, and always aiming to capture genuine moments that let viewers envision themselves in the scene.Personal Projects and Growth as a Photographer - Shane discusses the impact of tackling personal photo projects, especially those rooted in personal history and emotion. He details his process in planning, sequencing, and critiquing a long-term project about growing up, adoption, and finding outlets like skateboarding and photography to process emotions. This segment highlights the therapeutic and artistic significance of personal work outside client assignments.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSPortfolio-Building Trade: Exchanging photography services for goods or experiences (e.g., a night’s stay at an Airbnb) instead of cash. This strategy empowers photographers to build their portfolio with less pressure, experiment, and network with future paying clients.Intervalometer: A device or camera feature that enables timed, repeated exposures. In Shane’s workflow, using an intervalometer lets him capture authentic, non-posed moments during self-portraits or lifestyle shoots, contributing to a natural, polished final image.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can trading photography services be a valuable step for beginners looking to grow both skill and portfolio?What techniques or approaches can help photographers build confidence—especially when photographing strangers or in crowded settings?RESOURCES:Visit Shane Wilkie's Website - https://www.shanewilkie.com/Follow Shane Wilkie on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/shanewilkie/Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

  --------  

  49:48

  --------

  49:48

More Arts podcasts

Trending Arts podcasts

About The Beginner Photography Podcast