Discomfort is the Key to Growth

Taking photographs can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. But to really improve as a photographer, it's important to step out of your comfort zone and try new things.

This week we explore just that with the talented Christora Osters from Green Apple Photography . learn how education and leaning into that discomfort can help you grow as an artist and expand your creative horizons.

So if you're feeling stuck or stagnant in your photographic journey, it's time to take the plunge and push yourself into new and challenging avenues.

Doing so can open up a world of possibilities and help you take your photography to the next level.

Links

Christora’s Wedding Work - https://www.greenappleweddings.co

Christora’s Styled Shoots - https://greenapplestyledshoots.com

Christora’s instagram - https://www.instagram.com/greenapplephotoky/

Building a Social Platform for the AI Age

Building a Sustainable Photography Career in the Age of AI

Welcome to this week's captivating episode of Photographers Coffee Morning! Join us as we sit down with the renowned Tom Wright and the talented Michael Howard, known for his incredible work on Musea Lab and Musea Podcast. Together, they explore the essence of crafting a lasting career in photography amidst the transformative era of AI.

The Art of Building a Long-Lasting Career

Tom and Michael delve into the secrets of building a photography career that stands the test of time. Drawing from their own experiences, they share valuable insights for both aspiring and established professionals. From mastering essential skills to embracing creativity, this conversation is a goldmine for every photographer seeking success.

The Evolving Landscape: AI's Impact on Photography

As AI technology takes center stage, Tom and Michael discuss its profound influence on the photography industry. They shed light on the potential challenges and opportunities that AI presents for photographers. In this dynamic landscape, staying ahead of the curve and adapting to emerging trends becomes crucial.

The Revolution of Attribution and Remuneration

Michael Howard introduces his groundbreaking social app, a revolutionary platform that facilitates easy image attribution to their original creators. The app not only ensures proper credit for artists but also offers appropriate remuneration for their hard work. It's a game-changer that empowers photographers to receive fair compensation for their artistry.

Grab a Coffee and Join the Discussion

So, grab your favorite coffee and immerse yourself in this engaging conversation. Tom and Michael explore not only the technical aspects of photography but also the creative aspects of generative AI. Get ready for a thought-provoking dialogue on the joys of sharing and learning together as a community of passionate photographers.

Links

For More from Michael Howard

Michael's work has left a remarkable impact on the photography world. Explore his Foto App and Musea Lab to discover more of his innovative endeavors.

• Foto App: fotoapp.substack.com

• Musea Lab: musealab.com

Overcoming Technical Problems and Growing as a Photographer

The Challenges of Podcasting

The Hidden Challenge: Pod Fade

Podcasting may seem appealing on the surface, with its promise of engaging conversations and sharing knowledge with an audience. However, it's not as easy as it appears. The conversations I've had with incredible photographers and producers have been amazing, but there's a hidden challenge called "pod fade."

Pod fade is when a podcast gradually loses momentum and eventually fizzles out due to the amount of effort required to sustain it. Hosting a podcast requires time, money, and technical expertise. Unfortunately, many podcasters face distractions and financial constraints, making it difficult to maintain the momentum.

Technical Challenges in Photography

Technical challenges are not unique to podcasting; they are prevalent in all aspects of photography. As photographers, we begin our journey with a passion for artistry, but being a professional requires problem-solving skills and technical proficiency. Whether it's understanding ISO for low-light photography or collaborating with experts in different fields, problem-solving is an integral part of our growth.

Learning from Technical Issues

These technical issues can be valuable learning opportunities. Through my podcasting journey, I've gained insights into audio editing, remote recording, and other technical aspects. Many of these skills I wouldn't have explored without facing challenges. It's crucial to identify our strengths and seek assistance when needed.

Investing in Knowledge and Equipment

If you encounter technical problems or areas where you lack expertise, remember that you're not alone. Seeking help from professionals or investing in appropriate equipment can save you time, money, and ensure better outcomes for your clients. It's okay not to be an expert in every aspect of photography. Collaborating with others and continuously expanding our knowledge will help us provide a more comprehensive and professional service.

Adapting to Challenges

In my personal journey, I realized the need to adapt. In this episode, it's just you and me, as I focused on resolving technical issues and had to prioritize my time. Interestingly, the solo episodes I released on YouTube performed exceptionally well. Sharing the solutions to technical problems and experiences can benefit others and foster a supportive community.

Conclusion

Remember, as a professional photographer, understanding your equipment and continuously honing your skills is crucial. Lack of knowledge or inappropriate equipment can hinder your success. Don't hesitate to seek education, connect with experts, or reach out to me for guidance.

In conclusion, embrace the challenges that come with technical problems. View them as opportunities for growth and learning. Together, we can overcome these obstacles and continue to thrive as photographers.

I hope you find this blog post informative and helpful for overcoming technical challenges in photography. Keep pushing your boundaries and embracing the learning process. Remember, every obstacle you overcome brings you one step closer to becoming a better photographer.

Craft over Gear: Unleashing Your Artistry in Commercial Photography with Tom Barnes

Hey photographers!

Let's talk about the true essence of commercial photography—craftsmanship. It's time to shift our focus away from the gear frenzy and rediscover the true essence of our art.

While shooting on film may have its allure, we know the challenges that come with it—finding reliable labs and dealing with hefty costs. So, let's break it down. The real magic of commercial photography lies in your ability to capture moments, evoke emotions, and tell compelling stories through your images.

Instead of obsessing over the latest equipment, it's time to master the essentials. Composition, lighting, and post-processing are the building blocks of your craft. By honing these skills, you'll develop a unique style and push the boundaries of what's possible. Remember, it's your artistry that truly matters.

It's time to let go of gear envy and let your craft speak for itself. The gear is just a tool; it's your creativity and vision that will make your visuals resonate with your audience. So, keep refining your skills, experimenting with new techniques, and telling captivating stories through your lens.

Join us on this journey of unleashing your artistry in commercial photography. Together, let's celebrate the power of craftsmanship and create images that leave a lasting impact. Happy shooting, fellow artists!

Guest Links
www.tombarnes.com

Stop Letting Reviews Hold You Back: Insights from Celebrity Photographer Tom Barnes

Hi, everyone! I'm Tom Wright, and this week's edition of the Photographers Coffee Morning Podcast features a fascinating interview with the renowned celebrity photographer and podcaster, Tom Barnes.

In this episode, Tom shares his thoughts on photography and equipment, offering some sage advice for photographers who want to focus on their passion without getting bogged down in unnecessary gear. Find out what works best for you as a photographer and develop your own unique shooting style.

We'll also be discussing the pros and cons of different camera systems and lenses. While there's no one-size-fits-all solution, Barnes recommends finding a system that is reliable and suitable for your individual needs as a photographer.

Finally, Barnes will be plugging his own commercial photography podcast, Exposed Negative, which covers a broad range of photography-related topics. It's definitely worth checking out if you're a photography enthusiast!

Overall, this conversation is packed with valuable insights for photographers looking to improve their craft and select the right gear for their needs. So make sure to tune in and join us for the discussion!

Links

www.tombarnes.com

Instagram.com/tombarnesdotcom

www.exposednegative.com

How Nathan and Zoe Found Success as Fine Art Wedding Photographers

Nathan and Zoe are a husband and wife team who own Nathan and Zoe Photography, a fine art wedding photography business based in the United States. In a recent interview on Photographers Coffee Morning, they shared how they got started in the industry and how they have managed to achieve such incredible success in a relatively short amount of time.

Starting the Business

Nathan and Zoe both graduated from college, but Nathan was initially pursuing a career in aerospace engineering. However, after their son was born, they realized that they wanted to spend more time together as a family and decided to start a photography business.

Zoe had started photography as a hobby while they were dating, and after their son was born, they started doing it together as a hobby. They quickly realized that they loved it and wanted to make it into a full-time business. They posted a few Facebook ads saying that they offered wedding photography and quickly booked six weddings in two weeks.

Their first wedding was only a few days after they booked it, and they didn't even own a flash at the time. They quickly bought two speed lights and practiced with them in Nathan's mom's driveway until they felt confident enough to shoot the wedding. They bounced the flash off the white tent at the reception, and the results turned out great. This was just the beginning of their journey.

Building the Business

Nathan and Zoe continued to book more weddings and gradually increased their prices. They now charge around $6,000 for a wedding collection, and their clients typically spend about that much. They only book about 15-16 weddings a year, but they manage to double their income every year. They have been able to do this by focusing on weddings and by attracting clients who value their work and are willing to pay for it.

They have also been able to build a strong network of wedding vendors who refer them to their clients. They attend wedding shows and other events to build relationships with new vendors and stay in touch with existing ones.

Finding Success

Nathan and Zoe have found success as fine art wedding photographers because they are passionate about what they do and because they prioritize their family and their work-life balance. They love spending time together and want to help other couples build strong relationships too.

Their approach is simple: they focus on weddings, build relationships with vendors, and deliver high-quality work that their clients love. They don't try to be all things to all people, and they don't compromise on their values or their vision.

Their story is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and following your passion. Nathan and Zoe took a chance on their photography business, and it has paid off in spades. They have built a successful business that has allowed them to spend more time together as a family and to do work that they love.

If you are thinking about starting a photography business or are looking to take your existing business to the next level, Nathan and Zoe's story is an inspiration. They have shown that with hard work and determination, it is possible to build a thriving business that aligns with your personal and professional goals.

Do You really Need the Fujifilm X100V?

Carry a better Camera

Thoughts on the Fujifilm X100V

Are you curious about the Fujifilm X100V and its capabilities for personal photography?

In this week’s podcast episode, "Do You Need the Fujifilm X100V?", I explore the camera's features and compare them to other popular models from Sony and Leica. As a professional photographer, I was blown away by Fujifilm's renowned color reproduction technology, and I believe it sets the X100V apart from the competition.

But does its convenience and compact size come at the cost of image quality?

You'll have to watch the video or listen in to find out!

Join me on this journey to discover if the Fujifilm X100V is a valuable addition to your photography gear.

Video Summary

As a photographer, I've had a long and winding journey with cameras. In this post, I want to share my experience with the Fujifilm X100V and why I stopped using it.

Falling in Love with Fujifilm

I started with the Fujifilm X-T3, which I loved for its lenses, colors, and shooting experience. However, the autofocus just didn't cut it for me, so I took a break and tried out a fling with Canon.

But then, I found myself drawn back to Fujifilm, specifically the X100V. At first, I was hesitant to commit due to the 35mm lens, but after taking the plunge, I found it to be an incredible camera for personal use. It was portable, fun, and had beautiful colors. I was head over heels.

Moving On

But alas, all good things must come to an end. I eventually switched to the Fujifilm X-H2s, which I found to have better colors and a more professional body, making it suitable for work. It was a tough breakup, but I knew it was time to move on.

The Search for Perfection

I then embarked on a journey to find the perfect camera. I tried out different options, from the Sony RX1 to the Leica Q and Q2, but none of them were quite right. Each camera had its flaws and limitations, just like any relationship.

Just when I thought all hope was lost, I found a new love interest - the GFX 50s with a manual lens. It was different, unique, and produced outstanding files and colors. It was love at first sight.

The Perfect Camera Doesn't Exist

But in the end, I realized that the perfect camera doesn't exist. Each camera has its flaws and limitations, and it's all about finding the right fit for you and your needs. The X100V is still an amazing camera that captures the appeal of film and the convenience of a portable camera. It just wasn't the right fit for my professional needs.

Keep Exploring

So, I encourage fellow photographers to stay curious and try out different cameras to find what works best for their style. And who knows, you might just find the perfect camera for you. As for me, I'm still on the hunt for my next great love - but for now, I'm happy to have had the experience with the X100V and all its quirks and charms.

As photographers, it's all about finding the right tool for the job and staying open to new experiences and possibilities. So, keep exploring, keep shooting, and don't be afraid to fall in love with a new camera.

Does Medium Format Suck?

Medium Format vs APS-C

Fujifilm X-H2S vs GFX 50S Review

If you are wondering how medium format compares to APS-C, this video is for you.

I put the Fujifilm GFX 50S and the Fujifilm X-H2S to the test in various situations and see how they differ in image quality, autofocus, dynamic range, low light, and video features.

The GFX 50S has a larger sensor and higher resolution than the X-H2S, but is it worth the extra cost and size?

Watch the listen to this episode and watch the video to find out which camera gives you more control over your photography!

If you are wondering how medium format compares to APS-C, this video is for you.

Video Transcript

Welcome to Photographer's Coffee Morning. today we're doing incident a little bit different, so normally I'd have a guest here or somebody interviewing me or somebody interviewing another person or a Roundtable discussion. But today we've got none of that. We had some technical difficulties and our normal guest that would've appeared this week. We had some like connection problems and things didn't work out. So we've rearranged that interview for another time in the month. but for this week, I wanted to spend a little bit of time talking to you guys about. Something that's been touched on the podcast quite a lot, and that is medium format.

So for those of you that are listening in and not looking on YouTube, there are gonna be segments of this video that are gonna be more expanded on YouTube because. Basically, if you're gonna be talking about image quality, it's a lot easier to see the difference than it is to just imagine it in your brain.

While I'm talking, we've got my screen in front of me. We're gonna be talking together about medium format and about why I have decided that this is something that's important for my work. Medium format has been something that's been around. Thought a very long time before the advent of digital cameras, most photographers would maintain two kits.

There would be one small format kit for fast action and lower resolution, and there would be medium format, which was there to capture things like portraits, higher resolution images, and essentially anything that required smoother tonal gradation. When we transitioned to digital, producing a chip large enough to be equivalent to medium format was nearly impossible.

The very earliest digital cameras were either a small, super35 or APS-C sensor, or a larger full frame sensor that which is the same size as 35mm. However, if you were used to working as a film photographer before this, both of those sensor sizes might have seemed small. A lot of professionals prioritized medium format as their primary capture method, and they'd be using formats like 645, 6:7, and 6:6.

All of these formats had significantly more resolution. 35mm, like even 645, was nearly double the capture size. Of the 35mm frame, and as a result film, which kind of derives its resolution from the amount of grain in there. So a really fine grain film would have a high resolution, if you like.

Really fine grains, the grains make up the detail, which means you get more resolution. A larger piece of that film means that you're capturing more information in the same frame. So back in the day, if you wanted high resolution, you had to make a choice. Do you want to use a larger negative and use it more film and get more resolution, or do you want to use a smaller negative and save money, save size those time and work on smaller systems that would've been more nimble and easier to use with fewer technical constraints?

Fast forward to digital. The vast majority of photographers are shooting on what we would consider to be a full frame camera. This is the same as a 35mm negative on film, which is considered to be a smaller format for me. I stop shooting film for professional work. Probably around about six or seven years ago.

And the reason I did that is I was struggling to get the quality that I wanted from film. And as a result, we transition to digital cameras. We start getting the results that we want from these digital formats, and we try and learn to make our colors look the way that we like. And now I really do feel like I'm in a place where when I produce my work, I know what I'm gonna be getting.

I love the colors that we produce, but there is still something that I feel is missing. There's a human element that's lost when we used these modern cameras with auto focus and a million megapixels, and I kind of wanted to make a shift to something a little bit more traditional. So right now I'm shooting a good portion of my work on this camera.

This is a Fujifilm, GFX 50s, and the lens on it is a Voigtlander, 58mm 1.4. This combination is. Frankly, exactly what I want. The camera's 50 megapixels, and this is the first medium format camera that Fuji produced. And as a result, it's actually pretty affordable now. It's been a number of years since this was released, and I think I paid around about a thousand pounds for this camera body. And honestly, I couldn't be happier.

Now when you compare it to Fuji's current medium format offerings, this camera has terrible auto focus. It is not particularly good at video, and it's very heavy. It's very big, and compared to more modern options, the viewfinder does not feel quite as high quality. But frankly for what I want this camera for, which is manual focus, a more organic feel, none of those things particularly matter to me.

Now, with all that said, I wanna show you some examples of images that were taken on this camera, and really I want to do that because I want you to understand what I'm seeing in it. So if we turn to the computer now, we'll take a look together at some of the images that were taken with this camera. Now this project is something I've been working on for a little while, with a local artist called Dave Partington.

And the idea is I'm trying to show people's craft. I'm gonna go into their spaces and show them making things that matter, really putting the heart and soul into the things that they produce. And in Dave's case, he's a potter. So what I want you to look at is the kind of quality of these images. All of these were manual focused.

This lens is the equivalent of a 43mm f1. So everything that you're seeing I focused by hand. And if you look through, you realize after a while that although most of these are in focus at some stage, none of them are critically. And this is something I actually wanted. I don't want an image to be a hundred percent exactly how reality was.

I want there to be some kind of play in the image. So when I'm looking through these photographs, what I'm aiming for is the mood that we had when we were taking the images. If you look at the potter's wheel here, for example, you can see there's some motion blur going on to kinda really accentuate the movement of this wheel.

You can see that his hands here aren't really sharp cuz the focal point was on an area where of a loud motion blur in to obscure some of those details. As we go through these images, you should see a very characterful image. You should see something that really highlights the mood from the scene and not so much the reality of what was going on in front of.

In many cases there isn't a solid point of focus, but I've kept the image largely because I feel like it still captures the mood of the overall shoot. It would be easy to look at an image like this, for example, and think this is a failure. We haven't really got anything in focus. if we look at the potter's wheel, there is nothing here that's critically sharp.

The background blur is distracting. You can see there are these hard lines in the background blur, but to me there is something incredible. About the way this image looks.

In my head. When I saw this scene, this is the way it felt to me. And for the first time in a long time, I'm starting to get images that feel the way that I felt when I was taking the photograph.

I feel like this is an underrated element when we're all producing our work. We can decide what's important to us, we can choose what we're gonna prioritize. You can prioritize sharpness and making something that's clinically perfect and basically has everything in focus and shows exactly the scene as it was when you took it or you can do something that captures the emotion, the mood of the scene.

Now I want you to note this is a medium format camera, but if you look at it, there are some issues with the actual image. if you see the top left here, there's a lot of noise. And you might be asking why isn't the point of having a large negative, like a better quality and medium format comes with its own trade offs?

And the Fuji film gfx is one of the most flexible medium format centers out there, but it still has limits. This entire scene was lit by a one-by-one window, tiny window, and no internal lights. So this image was taken at ISO 6,400, and then it was pushed in post production by a roundabout, three stops.

the other thing is because the lens on this camera was designed for a smaller format, and it just happens to cover the larger sensor. What you're seeing in the very extreme corners is the vignette correction. So you can see it's really colorful on the top left and it fades down to being a more neutral color tone where that vignette ends. Looking at this in 5k on this monitor in front of me, this is obnoxious and I don't really like it, so I probably would not deliver a print this image, but there's still something about the image quality, the actual non-technical elements that I really like.

So as we move on to the next photograph, I want you to bear in mind those limitations. I want you to bear in mind the situation we were in. very low light, very considered, very slow. This is pretty much the worst possible situation. I could put this camera in, but I really want you to get a feel for how these images look, for how this lens renders and for the kind of feeling that you get when you're looking at these photographs.

The way that medium format kind of evokes mood is something that's pretty unique as far as I'm concerned, and it's not something I've been able to find in any 35mm camera before moving over to Fuji. The Canon 50mm 1.2 was a cornerstone of my style, and even that lens didn't capture this kind of, Involved characterful emotive feel that we're getting from this combination of this very specific, very special lens and that really large medium format sensor.

These might not be to everybody's taste, and to be frank, I'm not expect them to be, but this work is, this is what I wanted to produce for as long as I can remember. I wanted to make something that shows. These artists in their environment, and you might have noticed the change here. This is my Fujifilm, X-H2s.

This is one of the only shots that I took on that camera was as I was leaving, but I wanted to get some images of Dave in his studio with a wider angle, and I don't currently have a wide angle option for the gfx. But look at this image, it's still beautiful. And you can see at the top left here this window was the only thing that had lit Any scene that we've looked at so far, and you can see how tight a space we're working in, you can see the reality of the situation that we're in, and then we're back to the gfx.

And you can see how it has a personality and a character.

It's a tool that feels very much like. It has something to say, it has something to add, and it makes you look at your scene in a different way. And frankly, that can be a good and a bad thing if you don't want to have to fight with your camera. If you don't want to be in a situation where you need to select focus and make compromises and know the limitations of your camera, this is probably not for you.

There are definitely options out there that feel like absolute workhorses that will demand nothing of you if you're not sure what to look at. If you're looking for something that does. You can absolutely check out options like, I don't know, the Canon R5, which I had previous to this, which is basically the most reliable camera I've ever seen.

But it doesn't produce colors quite like this. Skin tones aren't quite as nice as we see here, and frankly, I want the fight.

I've been a photographer for 12 years and I'm getting to the stage now. If you give me a perfect tool, I'll give you a perfect result, and that isn't interesting to me. So when I'm choosing to make work for myself, these are the tools that I'm selecting, the ones where I can make mistakes. Interesting mistakes! And I want this for you too.

So this is the gfx. This is what it looks like in a vacuum. This is the look that I want out of this camera. But what I wanted to do as well was take a few moments to talk about the differences between this. And what most people would consider to be a small format sensor.

So the images we're about to look at on screen, and I'm about to describe for you are from the Fujifilm, X-H2s, which is a very modern stacked sensor, but small sensor. It's an APS-C and the gfx, which is a medium format camera, medium format digital with a very fast lens on it and a vintage design at that.

So we're gonna have a look at the first two images. Side by side.

This is Joe, my business coach. If you watched last week's episode, you might recognize her. we met up recently to do some contracts, set up as in I was trying to write some contracts for a project I'm working on. So we were in like a coworking space, and this is her having a cup of coffee made by the potter we just looked at actually, which is awesome. This is, Dave Parkinson's work, and they're beautiful drinking vessels with a real character.

but yeah, so the, these are the two images and if you look at them side by side right now, The first thing I want you to notice is how similar the colors are. the blue in her shirt is consistent across both images.

Her hair. It's got the same tonality in both images. The background, the blues, the blacks, the oranges, the golds. They're all very similar. If I was being picky, I'd say the image on the left has slightly less vibrance in the skin. This is a little bit less warm and a little bit less yellow with slightly more magenta on the left hand side, and the right hand image is slightly more pleasing to me.

I want you to take a second to guess, like which one of these do you think is the gfx and which one do you think. Is the X-H2s? the answer is the right hand image is the gfx. The left is the X-H2s, and for me, I like both of these images pretty much equally. If you gave me either, I'd be happy, but I enjoyed making the image on the right more.

It was more of a challenge.

So now what we're gonna do is look at another pair of images. We're gonna take a look at these two. Now this is super boring, but it's for a purpose, so bear with me. It's a really boring subject matter. We have a cordoned off section of this space, where in this is the Mackie Mayor in Manchester.

If you haven't been, you should go. The food's incredible. So when we're looking at these two photographs, you can clearly see the image on the right has significantly Less in focus. There is a sliver of this like rope that's been used cordoned off that area, and you can see towards the edges how the frame gets fuzzy and blurry and of more character as your head out towards the edges.

But again, in terms of color, there isn't a great dealer difference between this, these two cameras, there's a little bit more. On the image on the right, and there's slightly more magenta on the image on the left. But overall, these two images match together really well. And when we look at our next example, which is going back to Joe again in the same space, we see a similar story.

Colors look incredibly similar. The blues in this guy's jacket in the background, the orange of this pillar in the background, the skylight, all of these colors and tones match. And for me, this is massively important because if I'm gonna work on a project that requires that I work quickly, it means I can use a smaller format, Fujifilm sensor.

Whereas if I need to work on a project that allows me a little bit more control and I can be a bit more selective, I can make the image of the gfx know that those two bodies of work are gonna match together well.

So again, the left hand. Is the X-H2s. The right hand image is the gfx, and I just want you to have a look at these two and just see the difference in depth.

Even those, these two images have very different framing. You can tell that both images have a similar amount in focus, and this is the real strength of medium format. You can take a wider shot and be more selective about where you put your focus. But again, in terms of color, there's very little difference between these two cameras, and for me, that's ideal.

I want a situation where I could choose to use either, depending on what the job demands, what I want to get out of the situation, and that's it!

This is Paul Williams from Ginger Beard Weddings, and these two frames haven't been cropped yet. This should be pretty clear, which is which. You've got the 4:3 sensor of the GFX and the right, and you've got the 2:3 sensor of the X-H2s on the left.

And again, I can't see much of a difference in terms of tones. If you look at the kind of slatey blue color in the window frame here. That's consistent between both cameras. Look at Paul's shirt. You can again see the same kind of color tones being introduced in the highlights on his shirt.

The snakes reproduced with the same colors and that burnt orange, like renders exactly the same on both images. And if you look at other areas like skin tones, they're both incredibly similar. you could argue maybe there is slightly more magenta in the frame on the left, but overall, I don't think you'd see any difference between these two frames.

If you were delivering these to a client and this continues again and again looking at the frames in the front, the GFX does have something to it. You can tell this lens renders in a different, and slightly more interesting way than the lens on the left. The lens that Fuji's produced here is doing a good job of kind of looking similar, but it doesn't quite have the same level of character.

If you look at the areas in the front here with these picture frames, the kinda light reflections on the right hand side, it adds visual interest. Whereas on the left, it's just out of focus. And I think ultimately this is what I love about the gfx, it's just giving me a more balanced image, something that's got a little bit more interesting character when you want it.

But if I need something simple and I need a literal representation of the scene, the X-H2s is gonna provide that and still maintain a color consistency with the gfx. What does this mean for you? Basically, if you want to produce a consistent body of work and you want consistent color, the X-H2s is an incredible match for the gfx for a starter.

I am using the X-H2s to be a companion to the gfx. The images look similar enough between the two cameras that they would cut together well. Inside of a body of work, but I still have the option to choose something that challenges me a little bit more, more while I'm shooting.

So in cases where I can't dedicate the entire project to doing something that's a little bit more characterful and artistic, I still have a way of delivering something repeatable, consistent, and near perfect for my clients.

As you get further into your career, you're gonna find photography to be easier and easier, and what I want you to do is to challenge yourself technically, creatively, set yourself some constraints.

In my case, that was choosing a manual focus lens on a medium format camera with very restricted focus and trying to force myself to produce imagery that still felt authentic to me and characterful for you that might look different.

Maybe it's something as simple as choosing to shoot your automatic lenses at F8. You've got everything in focus to work on layering, or it could be a case of changing a color palette so that you produce something that's more akin to what you want to see. But in the end, what I really want for everybody listening today and everybody watching is for you to do something that makes photography more enjoyable for you, to help you to slow down, enjoy the process, and think carefully about what matters to you as an artist.

Thanks for listening, and I'll see you again next week.

Neurodiversity in creative business - Interview with Tom W

Hey there! I’m Jo McCarthy. As a creative mentor, I’ve worked with Tom for a few years, and I thought it was about time his community got to know more about the man behind the lens and this podcast.

A supportive guide

A highlight for me interviewing Tom was the way he expresses, in passionate terms, the drive he feels toward equity and education for all in the photography industry. 

We also discuss how his neurodiversity affects his approach to business, how Workflow came about through experience, and the need to improve his systems and processes. Oh, and there’s a bit of Kafka thrown in for good measure, too.

Listen, rate, and review the podcast. We’d love to hear your thoughts. 

Links
Jo McCarthy www.firain.com

To read more about Workflow by Tom W and to book a free consultation, click on the homepage.

Inside the World of Film-Inspired Presets: An Exclusive Interview with Goodlight Presets Founders

Join us for an exclusive interview with the founders of Goodlight Presets, a company that creates incredible Lightroom Profiles for photographers inspired by film.

In this interview, we'll dive deep into the world of film-inspired presets and learn about the inspiration behind Goodlight Presets. Whether you're a professional photographer, wedding photographer, or film and digital photographer, this interview is a must-watch for anyone interested in the art of photography.

We'll discuss the creative process behind their presets, how they got started in the industry, and their vision for the future of photography. So grab your camera and join us for this exciting conversation with the founders of Goodlight Presets!

Links

Goodlight Presets - https://goodlightpresets.com

Austin’s Photography - https://www.trenholmphoto.com

Cody’s Photography - https://hunterryanphoto.com

Photographers Mentioned

Eric McVey - https://www.erichmcvey.com

Simbarashe Cha - https://simbarashe.com

Companies Mentioned

Imagen AI - https://imagen-ai.com

Impossible Things - https://things.co

Narrative Select - https://narrative.so

Choosing Cameras for Character Interview with Dennis Roy Coronel

In this exclusive interview with Dennis Roy Coronel, a highly successful luxury wedding photographer, we explore the art and science of capturing the perfect wedding day memories.

With over a decade of experience in the industry, Coronel has not only learned how to develop a creative voice as a photographer but also the importance of choosing cameras for their character, not just performance.

He shares invaluable insights into how the right equipment can make your results more meaningful, and how to choose cameras that not only perform well but also add to the artistic and emotional impact of your work.

Join us as we delve into the secrets of his success and gain valuable knowledge that can help elevate your photography game.

Create an authentic AESTHETIC with Benj Story

How do you create a unique and consistent style for your photography and build a profitable business?

In this episode of Photographers Coffee Morning, host Tom Wright chats with Benj Story, a film photographer and Instagram influencer who has had his work recognised by both Kodak Alaris and Leica Camera.

Benj shares his tips and insights on how to build an authentic aesthetic for your personal work, how to collaborate with brands, and how this affects the profitability of your business.

Whether a beginner or a seasoned photography pro, you’ll find valuable advice and inspiration from this conversation. Tune in and enjoy!

Interview with Emma Alexander of Wisern

Tom W interviews Emma Alexander of Wisern and Mother Bran. A commercial producer who teaches photographers how to negotiate better rates, develop as a professional and succeed in the commercial space.

Check out her commercial production work at Mother Bran and her incredible education services at Wisern

Emma discusses the challenges that photographers face in the industry, particularly in regards to gatekeeping and the difficulties in gaining access to high-paying commercial work. She emphasizes the importance of building relationships with clients and being confident in negotiating rates.

Perfect for photographers looking to break into the commercial space and negotiate better rates for their work.

Round Table: Development and Gatekeeping

Hey there, it's Tom Wright, and in this episode of Photographers Coffee Morning, I had the pleasure of moderating a panel discussion with a fantastic group of photographers. We talked about two topics that are near and dear to my heart: accelerated learning and development, and healthy competition in the photography industry.

Joining me on the panel were:

• Adam Johnson, a top wedding photographer and former head of the largest photography education establishment in the UK

• Richard Rothmore, a skilled commercial property and editorial photographer based in London

• Nathan and Zoe Photography, a talented husband and wife team based in the USA

• Jack Corthine Photography, a wedding photographer/videographer with a strong sense of visual identity.

Throughout our conversation, we delved into the benefits and potential pitfalls of accelerated learning and development for photographers. We shared our experiences and strategies for honing our skills while staying true to our artistic vision.

We also talked about the importance of healthy competition in the industry. We explored how it can drive innovation and excellence while fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among photographers. We offered practical advice on how to balance healthy competition with collaboration and community building, and how to navigate the competitive landscape of the industry with grace and professionalism.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out in photography, this episode of Photographers Coffee Morning is a great listen. So grab your favorite cup of your favourite coffee, sit back, and join us for a lively and informative discussion!

Interview with Oli and Steph Photography

Finding your Niche - How Education Accelerates Growth

In this episode of Photographers Coffee Morning, host Tom W sits down with Oli and Steph Photography, who have made a name for themselves as elopement photographers on the Isle of Skye. With a a heavy focus on accelrating their growth through education, they have skyrocketed to the top of their industry in just one year.

Listeners will learn about the challenges and rewards of photographing elopements, as Oli and Steph share their insights on capturing intimate moments between couples against the stunning backdrop of the Isle of Skye. They'll also discuss their unique approach to storytelling through photography, as well as the tools and techniques they use to capture breathtaking shots in a variety of lighting and weather conditions.

Beyond their technical expertise, Oli and Steph will also share their personal experiences and motivations as photographers. They'll talk about their passion for storytelling and how they strive to create meaningful, emotional connections with their clients through their work. Listeners will come away from this episode with a deeper understanding of the art of elopement photography, as well as an appreciation for the dedication and creativity required to succeed in this competitive field.

Check out their work on Instagram, on their website and their amazing Isle of Skye elopement guide.

Round table: Visual Identity & Imperfection

Join our panel of photo and video professionals for a relaxed and informal conversation about visual identity, imperfection and when and where we should embrace trends in our work.

I’m your Host Tom Wright - www.workflowbytomw.com
Our Panelists on this week’s podcast are -
Neil Thomas Douglas - neilthomasdouglas.com
Oli & Steph Photography - oliandsteph.com
Micah Nelson - humble-perspectives.com
Savannah Groves - agirlandherphone.com
Nathan Chapman - nathanandzoey.com

If you want to join the conversation get in touch with me via instagram or on my Website for a link to sign up!

Interview with Dennis Roy Coronel

In this week's episode of Photographer's Coffee Morning, we sit down with the talented Dennis Roy Coronel, a photographer on the rise and making a name for himself in the world of luxury photography.

As he continues to develop his signature style and hone his craft, he has been fortunate enough to work with some of the most discerning and demanding clients in the industry. In this exclusive interview, Dennis opens up about his journey to finding his voice as an artist, what it's like to work with high-end clients, and how he brings a unique vision to each project he undertakes. He shares insights and tips on how he approaches a shoot, how he handles creative challenges, and what he does to create stunning, one-of-a-kind images.

For anyone interested in photography, luxury branding, or the creative process, this video is a must-watch. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the industry's most exciting photographers, Dennis Roy Coronel.

So pour yourself a cup of coffee and join us for an enlightening conversation with this up-and-coming photographer.

Check his work out on instagram and on his website

Round Table: Instagram and Imperfection

Join our panel of photo and video professionals for a relaxed and informal conversation about Instagram and it’s role in 2023 and the role imperfection plays in making interesting photographs.

I’m your Host Tom Wright - @ByTomW
Our Panelists on this week’s podcast are -
Neil Thomas Douglas - neilthomasdouglas.com
Oli & Steph Photography - oliandsteph.com
Micah Nelson - humble-perspectives.com
Simon Hird - simonhird.com
Leah Thomason - leahthomasonphotography.com

If you want to join the conversation get in touch with me via instagram or on my Website for a link to sign up!

Pilot: Roundtable Discussion

Join our panel of photo and video professionals for a relaxed and informal conversation about Life after Lockdowns, the future of Videography and Photography and Instagram for Creative Business Owners.

I’m your Host Tom Wright - @ByTomW

Our Panelists on this week’s podcast are -
Leah Thomason - @leahthomasonphotography
Richard Rothmore - @R.S.Rothmore
Mark Forrer - @MarkForrer
Jack Corthine - @jackcorthinephotovideo
Oli & Steph Photography - @oliandsteph
Phil Salisbury - @philsalisbury_
Wes Simpson - @wessimpsonweddings

If you want to join the conversation get in touch with me via instagram or on my Website for a link to sign up!