The Photographer Mindset

Rating More Hot Takes from Photographers on Threads

03 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Last week, we explored Aaron’s Instagram detox and evaluated some hot takes from photographers on Threads. This week, we’re back for round two! We...

Quitting Instagram + Evaluating Hot Takes from Photographers on Threads

23 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

What happens when a photographer quits Instagram? In this episode, we explore Aaron’s decision to step away from social media and how it’s opened ...

Will Jones - Insights on Focus, Simplicity and Creative Vision

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Will Jones is a UK-born carpenter, writer, and author of Cabin, a book that chronicles his journey of building a handcrafted retreat in the Canadian w...

Lily Henry - A Professional Colorist’s Guide to Better Visual Storytelling

08 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Lily Henry (@lilyhenrycolor) is a professional colorist with a background in photography and a career that spans working on projects for Marvel Studio...

Brooke Littlebear - How to Thrive Without Having All the Answers

02 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Brooke Littlebear (@brookelittlebear) is an incredible wildlife photographer, bear guide, homesteader, and adventurer with a life as unconventional as...

Why Boredom Unlocks Creativity and Improves Our Output

26 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Is boredom the secret to creativity? Can slowing down actually make you more productive? And how do you find balance in a world that demands constant ...

Dave Sandford - Adapting to the Evolving World of Photography

19 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Dave Sandford (@davesandford) is a renowned wildlife photographer and polar bear guide.What happens when a celebrated photographer steps out from behi...

Aaron's 2025 Year in Review: The Wins, Challenges, and Takeaways

12 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

It’s the start of 2026, and Aaron is following Seth's episode with a solo episode of his own reflecting on the win, challenges, and takeaways o...

Seth's 2025 Year in Review: The Highs, Lows, and Lessons

05 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

It’s the start of 2026, and I’m (Seth) kicking things off with a solo episode reflecting on the highs, lows, and lessons of 2025.Expect to learn h...

Ian Jones - How Independent Creators Can Win Over Clients from Big Agencies

29 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ian Jones (@iansjones) is a Pittsburgh-based commercial photographer and creative strategist known for crafting bold, story-driven visuals for brands ...

Lessons in Resilience, Collaboration, and Pricing Your Value

22 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Seth and Aaron catch up on life’s recent challenges and wins. Aaron shares his journey through back surgery recovery, while Seth re...

Aaron's Emergency Back Surgery Has Become the Ultimate Reset Button

15 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What happens when your body forces you to stop? Aaron shares the story of his sudden back injury, the decision to undergo emergency surgery, and the m...

Bram Berkien - Photographing the Human Side of the Tour de France

08 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Bram Berkien (@bramberkien) is a Dutch photographer celebrated for his ability to capture the human side of elite sports. As the official photographer...

Why Consistency Beats Intensity for Creative Output & Performance

01 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we explore the power of deliberately stopping while you’re still in the creative zone. We discuss how walking away at the right mome...

Why Success Doesn’t Feel Like Success

24 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Why does success often feel like a moving target? In this episode, we explore the highs and lows of the creative journey, from embarrassing shoot stor...

Dalton Johnson - How to Land More Photography Clients Without Feeling "Salesy"

17 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dive into the art of landing photography clients with guest Dalton Johnson (@storiesbydalton), a full-time commercial and editoria...

We Tackle Rapid Fire Photography Questions

10 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this lively episode, we tackle rapid-fire photography questions, sharing our takes on overrated trends, chaotic behind-the-scenes photography momen...

Some Honest Truths About the Creator's Journey

03 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ever feel the pressure to keep pushing in your creative journey? In this reflective and candid episode, we dive into the highs and lows of photography...

We Honestly Critique Each Other's Photos...

27 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Think your photos are untouchable? Think again. In this episode, we’re diving headfirst into critiquing each other’s work—no filters, no mercy. ...

How to Be a Terrible Photographer - (Artist Edition)

20 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ready to become the worst photographer ever, artistically speaking? We've got your back. In this spicy and sarcastic follow-up to our business ed...

How to Be a Terrible Photographer - (Business Edition)

13 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ever wonder how to be the worst photographer ever? We’ve got you covered! In this sarcastic and spicy episode, we break down all the ways to fail mi...

Kyle Dudgeon - A Therapy Session for Creators

06 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Kyle Dudgeon (@kdudgeonphoto) is an award-winning filmmaker and nature photographer based in the breathtaking landscapes of Bozeman, Montana. Kyle’s...

Bad Habits We've Ditched as Photographers (Pt. 2)

29 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Bad habits, be gone! In this episode, we dive into more habits we’ve worked to break as photographers, from overspending on gear and shooting vertic...

Bad Habits We've Ditched as Photographers (Pt. 1)

22 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Breaking bad habits can transform your photography. In this episode, we share some of the habits we’ve ditched, from overshooting and winging it to ...

How to Balance Creating for Art and Business as a Photographer

15 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Are you a content creator, a photographer, or both? In this episode, we tackle a listener's question about balancing artistic passion with creati...

Fall 2025 Photography Tips for Capturing More Than Just Colors

08 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the beauty and challenges of fall photography, diving into creative approaches to capture the season beyond the typical &q...

How to Become a Brand Ambassador as a Photographer

01 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This episode dives into the world of brand ambassadorships, exploring how to build authentic relationships with companies, represent yourself effectiv...

How Our Photographer Buddy "Nuch" Built an Ultimate Dream Career in 6 Years

25 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Mike Nuchereno (@nuch10), affectionately known as "Nuch," is a talented wildlife photographer turned digital archivist for the renowned band...

Lizzie Daly - Thinking Big and Being Bold in a Creative Career

18 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Lizzie Daly (@lizziedalywild) is a passionate wildlife host, scientist, filmmaker, and photographer dedicated to exploring and sharing the wonders of ...

Matt Patterson, IP Attorney - How to Protect Your Photos from Theft and Misuse

11 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Matt Patterson is an intellectual property attorney and photographer. As an attorney, Matt specializes in patents and trademarks, but he also has an e...

How Far Should Creators Go for Clients?

04 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dive into the challenges of balancing creativity and client demands. Are you just the photographer or videographer, or are you als...

Tsunamis, a Marine Toilet Disaster, and Maximum Security Prison: Tales from Our 2025 Alaska Photography Retreat

28 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we talk about the adventures of our 2025 Alaska Photography Retreat! From dodging tsunamis and navigating quicksand-like tidal flats t...

"Have To" "Should Do" or "Want To"... The Mindset Shift Every Creator Needs

21 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dive into the balance between passion and practicality in creative pursuits. We share personal stories about the pressures of turn...

Ian Jones - The Creative's Plateau and How to Break It (Pt.2)

13 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ian Jones (@iansjones), is a creative powerhouse from Pittsburgh known for his authentic and impactful photo and video content. With a passion for pus...

Ian Jones - Sobriety, 4K Level Mental Clarity, and Creating Stupid Amounts of Good Content (Pt.1)

07 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ian Jones (@iansjones), is a creative powerhouse from Pittsburgh known for his authentic and impactful photo and video content. With a passion for pus...

Lianna Nixon - Using Storytelling to Connect & Be Relatable

30 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Lianna Nixon (@liannanixon) is a polar guide, climate science educator, and storyteller who uses her camera to connect people with the Arctic's f...

Building Confidence in Your Photography with Reps & Risk

24 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore how taking creative risks and embracing repetition can transform your photography journey. From shifting focus to storytel...

Corey Lynn Tucker - Turning Nature Into the Ultimate Wedding Photography Venue

16 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Corey Lynn Tucker (@elopewithcorey) is a destination elopement photographer, guide, and storyteller who helps couples create wildly personal, stress-f...

Ian Plant - How to Find Balance Between Art, Business, & The Creative Process

09 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ian Plant (@ianplantphoto) is a renowned nature, landscape, and wildlife photographer with decades of experience who left his career in law to follow ...

Dalton Johnson - Are Photographers Viewing “Free Work” the Wrong Way?

02 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Dalton Johnson (@storiesbydalton) is a photographer, adventurer, and journalist who has collaborated with renowned brands such as Patagonia, Big Agnes...

Eric Bennett - Photography is Not a Popularity Contest

26 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Eric Bennett (@bennettfilm) is a nature photographer, artist, and storyteller who brings an intentional and deeply personal approach to his craft.How ...

Justin Haugen - Reinventing Yourself as a Creative Professional

19 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Justin Haugen (@photowarlock) is a commercial photographer, creative professional, and a father navigating the challenges of balancing career and fami...

How to Turn Unpaid Work into Paid Work

12 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

How can free gigs pave the way for a thriving creative career? We dissect the art of turning unpaid work into meaningful opportunities in this episode...

How to Build an Amazing Portfolio by Revisiting Locations or Subjects

05 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

How do you elevate your creative work when revisiting familiar places or projects? This episode explores how revisiting locations or concepts with fre...

Chris Burkard - The Art of Storytelling and Living Boldly

28 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we're joined by photographer and filmmaker Chris Burkard (@chrisburkard) as he shares his insights on storytelling, creative expl...

4 Mistakes We've Made as Photographers Pt. 2

21 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Part two is here, and we’re bringing more reflections and lessons learned from our photography journeys. This time, we’re talking about the power ...

4 Mistakes We've Made as Photographers Pt. 1

14 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Everyone makes mistakes, but in this episode, we’re owning them and sharing the valuable lessons they brought us. From pouring too much energy into ...

Are Photographers Gatekeeping or Rightfully Guarding Their Hard-Earned Success?

07 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This episode dives into the controversial topic of gatekeeping in the photography community, unpacking both sides of the debate on sharing knowledge v...

4 More Things That Fuelled Our Photography Success (Pt. 2)

31 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This episode is part two of our two-part series, where we continue exploring the lessons that have defined our photography journeys. We dig into the a...

4 Things That Fuelled Our Photography Success (Pt. 1)

28 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, we reflect on our photography journeys, sharing pivotal strategies and mindset shifts that have shaped our growth. We explore th...

What Happens When We Don’t Talk About Photography?

24 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we challenged ourselves to create an entire episode without mentioning photography, not even once! What seemed simple at first turned...

Why Getting Competitive with Your Photography Will Help You Improve

17 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Are photography contests worth your time? Can submitting your work really change your creative trajectory or confidence? Seth and Aaron sit down with ...

Overcoming Meaninglessness & Nihilism as a Creator

10 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When faced with the question "If everything is meaningless, why bother?" how do we push forward as creatives and start or resume sharing our...

Topaz Labs CEO Eric Yang on the Future of Photo and Video Creation

03 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we chat with Eric Yang (@yangez) , CEO of Topaz Labs (@topazlabs), about the future of photo and video creation over the next 5 to 10...

Aaron & Seth’s Creative Journey from Beginning to Now

24 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Why do our creative journeys twist and turn in unexpected ways?This episode opens with a nostalgic throwback to one of the first times Aaron and Seth ...

Why Hard Work Doesn’t Always Pay Off

17 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Why does hard work sometimes fall short of delivering the results we expect? In this episode, we uncover the non-linear relationship between effort an...

Ryan Peters: Mastering Niche Content Creation with Social Media’s Viral "Pasta Guy"

10 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we chat with Ryan Peters (@ryanpeterspgh) a.k.a "Peter's Pasta", a Pittsburgh-based chef and pasta enthusiast whose vir...

Toronto Raptors Team Photographer Vaughn Ridley on Becoming a Professional Sports Photographer

03 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we chat with Vaughn Ridley (@vaughnridley), NBA team photographer for the Toronto Raptors and Getty Images photographer, about his jo...

Eric Paré & Kim Henry: Photography as a Performance, Light Painting, & Staying Playful

27 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we talk with Canadians Eric Paré (@ericparephoto) and Kim Henry (@kimhenry.dance), a creative duo known for blending art, movement, ...

Ken Landry: Why the Camera Comes Second to Your Passion

20 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we chat with Ken Landry (@varsityoverland), an emerging creator who has successfully turned his passion for overlanding into compelli...

How to "Futureproof" Yourself as a Creator and Become Indispensable

13 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore how creators can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world by learning to integrate new technology instead of resisting...

Becoming "Essentialist" Photographers in 2025

06 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we build upon last week's discussion about concepts we'll have at the forefront of our brains as we move through life and p...

Things We'll Be Doing as Creators to Level Up in 2025

30 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we take a moment to reflect on 2024, exploring both our mindset principles and growth as photographers. We then shift our focus to th...

Ian Jones - When and How to Execute and Abandon Certain Creative Ideas

23 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ian Jones (@iansjones), a frequent guest on the show, is a highly skilled photographer and content creator known for managing demanding workloads and ...

Mark Smith - Finding Balance and Resilience in Life as a Photographer & Videographer

16 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Mark Smith (@mark.smith.photography) is a renowned photographer and videographer celebrated for his mesmerizing wildlife photography and storytelling....

Super Simple Explanation of How to Charge for Both Your Time and for Licensing as a Photographer

09 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we unpack the crucial lesson we wish we’d learned earlier in our photography careers, charging not only for our time but also for t...

The Creative Cycle: How Taking an Extended Period of Time Away From Photography Can Make You Improve with Bret Blakely

02 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Bret Blakely (@bretblakely), our very first guest on the genesis episode of this podcast, returns to share his inspiring journey back to photography a...

How to Reignite the Creative Spark, Tips for Doing Galleries, & Detaching Emotionally from How Audiences Perceive Your Work

25 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This episode dives into the story of a listener who’s feeling uninspired by wedding photography, despite its financial success. We explore how creat...

Tips for Introverted Photographers to Improve Their Communication

18 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we focus on empowering introverted photographers to enhance their communication skills, transforming their interactions from hesitant...

How to be Fulfilled as a Photographer & Creator with Hannah Rheaume

11 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today we're joined by Hannah Rheaume (@hannahrheaume), a Seattle-based content creative and photographer with over seven years of experience, spe...

Is It Easier Than Ever to Stand Out Amongst the Competition in Photography? with Mike Nuchereno

04 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Mike Nuchereno (@nuch10), who expanded from a dedicated wildlife photographer into the lead pho...

Decentralizing Social Media and Making Yourself the Platform

28 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into the concept of decentralizing social media, advocating for a shift where the quality of content and genuine subscriptio...

Things in the Current Photography Era We Dislike

21 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we tackle modern photography's challenges, highlighting how social media often values lifestyle over true artistry, threatening ...

Why Are You Still a Photographer? & Are You a Skilled or Unskilled One?

14 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into the nuanced art of self-assessment in photography by the kinds of questions you ask, helping you gauge whether you&apos...

Should You or Should You Not Niche as a Photographer?

07 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dive into the debate over whether photographers should "niche down" or embrace a broader approach. We explore the potent...

How to Become a Dedicated Photographer with Wildlife Photographer Ron Hayes

30 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of wildlife photography with seasoned expert Ron Hayes (@ronhayes_wwi). Discover the blend of patie...

Client Hated My Photos... Now What?

23 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we delve into a real-life communication breakdown between Aaron and a photography client. We explore how to navigate reconciliation w...

A Conversation That Will Improve Your Mindset & Photography Practice Pt. 2

16 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this part 2 episode, we explore transformative concepts that have enriched our lives, business, and relationships. These insights have not only enh...

A Conversation That Will Improve Your Mindset & Photography Practice Pt. 1

09 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore transformative concepts that have enriched our lives, business, and relationships. These insights have not only enhanced o...

Upselling Content You've Already Shot, Why You Should Edit Right Away, & How to Be Firm with Your Prices with @dirtandglass

02 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we're joined by Chris Daniele and Pamela Daniele (@heypamcakes). Together they make up @dirtandglass and photograph and video som...

How to Optimize Packing, Planning, & Preparing for a Photography Trip

26 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Planning and preparing for a photography trip can seem mundane and not overly sophisticated. However in this episode we get into the intricacies of ho...

How to Run Successful Photography Workshops & Capturing an "Instagram Breaking" Photo with Liron Gertsman

19 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we're joined by Liron Gertsman (@liron_gertsman_photography), an award-winning nature photographer and conservation photojournali...

Continuing to Evolve and Grow as a Photographer with Mark Raycroft

12 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we're joined by Mark Raycroft (@markraycroftwildphoto), a seasoned wildlife photographer and biologist with over 25 years of expe...

Here's Why You're Nervous Handing in Photo and Video Deliverables

05 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss why you feel anxious or nervous when handing in deliverables to a client despite being competent and capable in your abilit...

How to Create "Thumb Stopping" Photography with Ricky Shoebio

29 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ricky Shoebio (@spacecampfresh) is a multi-talented individual serving as a creative director, photographer, and founder of The Big Kyds, a creative c...

The Importance of Being Relatable in Photography with Jessica Sanchez

22 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Audiences relate to photographers they can personally connect with. It's also difficult to envision yourself in a field or industry if you don&ap...

4 Pieces of Advice We Would Give New & Intermediate Photographers

15 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss 4 pieces of advice that we would give photographers starting out or of intermediate experience. These are exact things we w...

Filming Something Every Day for 365 Days with Matteo Farinacci

08 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we're joined by Matteo Farinacci (@filmedbymatteo), a videographer from the Bay Area in California. He has embarked on a project ...

An Example of How to Fairly Price a Photography Assignment

01 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we try a new format! We have made up an example scenario where a company has approached us to perform a commercial photography gig. We...

"Made with AI"... Photographers Debate Instagram's New Feature

24 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Instagram's newest feature "Made with AI" has the photography community divided. It's a feature that has likely bene instituted wi...

Avoiding the Social Media Game! Photography as a Means to Achieving Happiness with @lyndonswildphotos

17 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Lyndon Norman (@lyndonswildphotos) is a wildlife and nature photographer from Alberta, Canada. She has a genuine passion for ethical wildlife and natu...

How 1 Week of No Internet Improves Creativity and Enthusiasm for Photography

10 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we talk about the benefits of taking a forced break from the internet entirely and how that can positively impact your creativity, lov...

Relatable Photography Success Story

03 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode Aaron and I receive a detailed email from listener Aaron Haley (@aaron_michael_productions) about how he implemented many of the conce...

From No Experience to Booking Several Clients in Under 1 Year with Taryn McCabe

27 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we're joined by Taryn McCabe (@tmcc_photography). Taryn first joined us last year on our 2023 TPM Retreat with extremely little k...

I Posted a YouTube Short Every Day for 60 Days...

20 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

I (Seth) posted a YouTube Short every day for 60 days in a row. In this episode, we talk about:the differences between Instagram Reels & YouTube S...

Best Ways to Build & Improve Your Social Media Persona with Trav in the Bush

13 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Travis or "Trav" (@trav_in_the_bush), is a wildlife adventure guide from London, Ontario, Canada,  who has a passion for birdwatching and t...

Macro Photography & Learning How to Become a Committed Person with Cynthia Bandurek

06 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Cynthia Bandurek  (@cynthiabandurek_artphotography) is a photographer known for her expertise in macro photography, conservation projects, and scient...

Ways to Keep Photography and Socials FUN with Jason Loftus

29 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Jason Loftus, better known as "Untamed Images by JL" (@untamedimagesbyjl) is a passionate outdoor photographer who captures and shares outdo...

Funnelling People to Your Photography on Socials with Anwar Abdul-Qawi

22 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Anwar Abdul-Qawi (@_anwaraq), is a dedicated conservation educator with a background in Zoology and Biology known for his work at the Philadelphia Zoo...

How to Become Better at Making Videos with Ryan Wilkes

15 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we're joined by Ryan Wilkes (@ryanwilkes), a cinematographer and DoP from Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Ryan shares his adv...