The Human Connection: Camera Optional, Empathy Required - Moments of Mood, 2.1
In this week's episode of 'Moments of Mood', I discuss how great portrait photography is about connecting and collaborating with the person or people in front of you, not just mastering technical skills.I get a lot of questions on how to photograph people, and of course it's not that simple - we are complex beings, all coming from different places, different experiences and different perceptions of the world. To expect to be able to control that is a fallacy. But so is thinking that the equipment or technical aspect of the experience is the most important. Listen to this short monologue about why.___________________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
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How One Mindset Shift Changed Everything - Cam Stables, EO87
"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 career—and why just starting is often the most important step.What we discussed in this episode:The transition from live TV and theatre into visual storytellingHow travel fuels creativity and self-awarenessBuilding a brand that attracts the right kind of work for youWhy consistency on social media beats viralityDealing with burnout and staying grounded Balancing personal expression with commercial workHow to emotionally move people with photography and filmThe rising role of AI in the creative space—and how to stay humanAdvice for aspiring creators: gear, growth, and getting out thereFind Cam's work on his channels:Website: www.camstables.comInstagram: @cam_snapsYou Tube: @cam_snaps_______________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
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Rediscovering Meaning in a World of Images - Moments of Mood, 2.0
“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 good and photos that mean something, and whether that's even importantA life-changing moment with a young girl in UgandaWhy the context around the frame matters as much as the frame itselfHow to shoot with deeper intention and connectionA powerful challenge to rekindle your photographic voiceTake the challenge:In the next 48 hours, take one photo that matters to you — and reflect on why. That’s how we shift from taking pictures to creating something that truly lasts.Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
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Why I quit Photography and Came Back Stronger - Cam Vaughne, EO86
“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 transformation—both creatively and personally—since his first appearance. Cam opens up about how trauma, community, and a return to simplicity reshaped his photography. What follows is an honest, raw, and inspiring conversation about using your lens to document change—both in the world and in yourself.In this episode, we discuss:How personal hardship can reconnect you with your creative rootsWhy returning to shooting “just for fun” can reignite your passionThe impact of over-tourism and construction on local culture The power of community and storytelling in healing and rediscoveryFinding your unique voice by following what interests you outside of photographyWhy it’s okay to step away from social media—and how to grow without itLetting go of perfection: why raw moments trump curated shotsThe importance of staying true to your art and ignoring the noiseFind Cam's work on his IG channel:Instagram: @camvaughne__________________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
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1:05:11
The Biggest Lie in Photography Education: Joe Edelman, EO85
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 photographers master not just the technical, but the artistic and emotional depths of photography.What we discussed:The biggest lie in photography education todayWhy photographers should focus on the why before the howHow social media has fueled a “banger mentality” that kills creativityThe real difference between amateur and professional photographersWhy AI and technology won’t replace great photographers—but bad onesThe truth about photography rules (and why most should be ignored)How to develop a photography career in today’s saturated marketWhy “Don’t be afraid to suck” is the best advice for any photographerThe role of mentorship and why great photographers don’t always make great teachersWhat Joe would do if he were starting his career todayFind Joe's work on his channels:Website: www.joeedelman.comInstagram: @joeedelmanYou Tube: @theJoeEdelman_________________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
In The MOOD Podcast, Matt Jacob, renowned cultural portrait photographer, dives deep into the world of photography and the visual arts, with guests from all around the creative industry, across all parts of the globe, sharing inspiring stories and experiences that will leave you wanting more. With years of experience and a passion for storytelling, Matt has become a master of capturing lesser-told human stories through his photography, and teams up with other special artists from around the world to showcase insights, experiences and opinions within the diverse and sometimes controversial photography world. You can watch these podcasts on his Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay.You can also follow Matt's work on his Instagram @mattyj_ay and his website: https://mattjacobphotography.com.
Ireland