EP. 56 - Motivation and Photography with Julian Mather

In Episode 56 of the Photo Country Podcast, host Rajiv interviews Julian Mather, an accomplished documentary filmmaker, motivational speaker, and former professional magician. Julian shares his remarkable journey from being a chronic truant to becoming a successful cameraman on ABC. He delves into his passion for photography, his stint as an army sniper, and his extensive travels documenting stories around the world. Julian discusses the transition from analog to digital media, and the importance of storytelling, building trust, and simplifying complex subjects like science for lay audiences. He also reflects on his career transition into motivational speaking and offers invaluable advice for aspiring filmmakers. Tune in to be inspired by Julian’s captivating stories and profound insights.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:51 Meet Julian Mather: From Truant to Filmmaker

02:11 Julian's Early Life and Photography Passion

03:30 Joining the Army and Becoming a Sniper

05:15 Transition to Filmmaking and ABC TV

06:32 Traveling the World as a Documentary Cameraman

08:50 The Shift from Analog to Digital Media

13:40 Documentary Filmmaking Techniques and Challenges

19:38 Simplifying Complex Scientific Concepts

21:30 Building Trust and Simplifying Performances

22:37 The Art of Storytelling

25:00 Transitioning Careers: From TV to Magic

27:03 The Turning Point: Embracing Change

31:02 Becoming a Motivational Speaker

37:24 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

40:34 Conclusion and Contact Information

Get in touch with Julian Mather on www.julianmather.com

Chasing Light and Adventure with Vivek Chugh : Ep. 55

In episode 55 of Photo Country, host Rajeev Nedumaran speaks with veteran photographer Vivek Chugh (VC) about the true essence of photography. They discuss why the vision behind the shot is more critical than the gear used, and explore Vivek's journey from Goa to the remote landscapes of Scotland. They delve into his opinions on photographic equipment, his foray into filmmaking, and his take on the solitary yet fulfilling nature of photography. Vivek shares insights on the significance of having a hobby and how his passion for photography complements his profession. Listeners are also treated to an engaging discussion about the subjective nature of art and the challenges of capturing perfect moments in travel photography. The episode rounds off with advice for aspiring photographers to practice persistently and not give up.

Vivek's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vivekdchugh/

00:00 Introduction to Photography Philosophy

00:32 Meet the Guest: Vivek Chugh

01:32 Photography Fundamentals and Simplification

04:44 Gear Talk: Cameras and Lenses

09:26 The Joy of Photography

15:36 Venturing into Filmmaking

18:38 Storytelling in Photography

22:26 The Emotional Impact of Photography

23:09 The Rajasthan Motorcycle Adventure

24:07 The Thrill of the Hunt in Photography

24:33 The Lifestyle of a Photographer

26:43 Balancing Hobby and Profession

27:25 Photography as a Creative Influence

28:39 Challenges of Group Photography Trips

30:47 Memorable Photography Experiences

37:47 Future Photography Projects

39:16 Advice for Aspiring Photographers

40:09 Closing Remarks and Thank You

Ep. 54: Capturing Africa’s Beauty with Kyle Goetsch: A Journey from Biochemistry to Landscape Photography

In this episode, Dr. Kyle Goetsch, a former biochemist turned landscape photographer, shares his inspiring career transition story. Kyle discusses his passion for landscape photography, especially around Cape Town, and his approach to capturing unique, natural scenes. He elaborates on the challenges of leaving a secure job for a dynamic career in photography, emphasizing the importance of planning and persistence. Kyle also touches on his workshops, his fascination with astrophotography, and his commitment to showcasing Southern Africa's beauty. This episode offers valuable insights for both aspiring and seasoned photographers.

00:00 Introduction and Early Morning Start

00:14 From Biochemist to Landscape Photographer

01:28 Transitioning to a Photography Career

02:16 Iconic Shots and Locations

03:51 Challenges and Unique Perspectives

05:10 The Thrill of Landscape Photography

14:37 Workshops and Teaching

23:41 Future Plans and Advice for Beginners

26:44 Conclusion and Contact Information

Kyle’s Instagram: kylegoetschphotography

Note on Magic Mind: the sponsor for this episode. Right now you have a limited time offer where you can get up to 48 percent off your first subscription or 20 percent off your one time purchase if you use the code RAJEEV20 and they ship internationally to 65 countries all across the world. Go to magicmind.co/photocountry to claim your discount.

Ep. 53 - Capturing Life's Moments with Joshua Shelton: A Journey in Photography

In this episode of Photo Country, host Rajeev welcomes acclaimed photographer Joshua Shelton to discuss his multifaceted career in still photography and television production. Joshua shares his passion for photography, especially family and children's portraits, and talks about the creative process behind his Hello Stranger series. The conversation also delves into his extensive travel experiences, his work in reality TV, and the challenges of balancing artistic pursuits and business. Joshua emphasizes the importance of personal connections in photography and offers advice to aspiring photographers. The episode also features a discussion about the benefits of MagicMind's mental performance drink.

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Fatherhood

00:18 Meet Joshua Shelton: A Journey in Photography

00:48 Sponsor Break: Magic Mind

02:00 Starting the Conversation with Joshua

02:18 Joshua's Podcast Experiences

02:45 The Hello Stranger Series

07:00 Joshua's Photography Beginnings

09:00 Balancing Family and Work

10:09 Television Work and Reality TV

13:46 Astro Portraits and Techniques

17:52 Challenges and Styles in Photography

28:19 Future Plans and Advice for Aspiring Photographers

31:43 Conclusion: Reflecting on the Journey

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and captivating photography insights. Don't forget to check out Magic Mind using the code RAJEEV20 at magicmind.com/photocountry for your special discount!

Happy photographing!

Joshua’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shelton_pictures/

Creative Storytelling with Purpose: Bryce Groves on Activism and Art Direction

In Episode 52 of the Photo Country podcast, Rajeev welcomes Bryce Groves, a purpose-driven creative and experienced art director with two decades in advertising. Bryce shares his journey of aligning his career with his passion for activism and environmental causes. The episode explores Bryce's work with Greenpeace, the Green Party, and his approach to combining creativity with science communication. Rajeev also discusses Bryce's event photography, nature photography, and unique storytelling projects. Additionally, the episode features a segment on Magic Mind, a mental performance drink that sponsors this episode.

00:00 Introduction to Storytelling and Creativity

00:17 Welcome to Photo Country Podcast

00:22 Introducing Bryce Groves

00:42 Magic Mind Sponsorship

01:58 Bryce's Journey and Activism

03:52 Bryce's Creative Beginnings

04:43 Photography and Art Direction

06:45 Green Party and Environmental Advocacy

07:41 Challenges in Green Storytelling

23:30 Event Photography and Personal Projects

28:34 Future Plans and Closing Thoughts

32:08 Outro and Contact Information

You can explore Bryce's work and connect with him through the following links:

* Bryce’s Main Website: bvg.nz

* Event Photography: bvg.photography.squarespace.com

* Dendrophile Prints: dendrophileprints.squarespace.com

Don’t forget to try out Magic Mind, the sponsor of this podcast. You have a limited offer you can use now, that gets you up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one-time purchases with code RAJEEV20 at checkout you can claim it at: https://www.magicmind.com/photocountry

Capturing Wildlife and Landscapes with Paul Kettel: Insights and Inspirations

In this episode of Photo Country, host Rajeev converses with Paul Kettel, an accomplished wildlife and landscape photographer from Auckland, New Zealand. This engaging discussion covers Paul's journey into photography, his techniques for capturing wildlife, especially birds, and the balancing act between passion and profession. Paul shares his approach to achieving powerful compositions and the challenges of photographing elusive bird behaviors. The episode also touches on Paul's insights into staying creatively inspired and his passion for nature and mindfulness. Tune in for invaluable tips and stories that showcase the art and joy of nature photography. Follow Paul Kettle on Instagram - @paulkettle

P.S: Don’t forget to check out this episode’s sponsors - magicmind.co ~ Use RAJEEV20 to get a discount or use magicmind.co/photocountry

Rediscovering Joy Through Photography: Sandra Cattaneo Adorno's Journey

In this 50th episode of Photo Country, host Rajeev interviews Brazilian street photographer Sandra Cattaneo Adorno, who discusses her late bloom into photography at sixty and celebrates her 10th anniversary in the field with a new book and an exhibition at the Venice Biennale. Sandra shares her unique experience with photography, emphasizing the joy and childlike wonder it brings her. She talks about her book's innovative accordion format, her fascination with gold hues in her images, and the positive responses her work has received. Sandra also delves into her passion for travel, the role of spontaneity in her photography, and the importance of staying curious and physically active. The episode concludes with Sandra encouraging aspiring photographers to embrace photography as a means to rediscover the world and maintain happiness and health.

Important Linkshttps://www.sandracattaneoadorno.com/

https://www.radiusbooks.org/all-books/p/sandra-cattaneo-adorno-ten-years

Magic Mind - Thank you for sponsoring this episodehttps://www.magicmind.com/photocountry

00:00 Discovering Joy Through Photography

00:38 Celebrating 50 Episodes with a Special Guest

01:40 A Deep Dive into Sandra's Unique Photobook

04:59 The Artistic Process and Inspiration Behind the Gold

06:56 Exhibition Success and Unintended Magic at the Venice Biennale

10:25 Transitioning to Photography: A Late Bloomer's Tale

12:31 The Thrill of Street Photography and Embracing New Experiences

16:27 Globetrotting for the Perfect Shot: A Photographer's Journey

18:57 Embracing Global Citizenship Through Travel

19:29 A Life of Adventure: From Boarding School to Global Travels

19:51 The Impact of Culture on Personal Growth and Photography

20:19 Finding Beauty in the World Through the Lens

22:39 The Journey to Publishing Four Photography Books

25:32 Embracing Photography as a New Craft at 60

30:43 The Evolution of a Photographer's Eye

31:45 Photography: A Joyful Pursuit Beyond Rules

33:26 Rediscovering Childhood Through Photography

34:31 Advice for Aspiring Photographers and the Importance of Staying Curious

36:36 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Sandra's Work

The Entrepreneurial Journey of Justin Castles and Lucky Straps

In episode 49 of Photo Country, host Rajeev interviews Justin Castles, the photographer and entrepreneur behind Lucky Straps, renowned for their comfortable, handmade camera straps. Justin shares his transition from photography to entrepreneurship, detailing the inception of Lucky Straps, its growth, and its unique selling points like personalization and international shipping. The episode explores challenges and strategies in product development, marketing, and expanding product lines. The conversation also dives into user-generated content, the importance of starting small in business, and the potential for collaboration. Additionally, Rajeev discusses his podcast journey, touching on the challenges of hosting a photography-focused podcast and the effectiveness of leveraging multiple mediums to enhance audience engagement.

00:00 Welcome to Photo Country: Meet Justin Castles

00:21 Discovering the Comfort of Lucky Straps

02:04 Sponsor Spotlight: Magic Mind's Boost for Creatives

03:10 Deep Dive into Justin's Journey: From Photography to Entrepreneurship

04:44 The Evolution of a Photography Career and Lucky Straps

05:00 Navigating the Challenges of a Dual Career and Business Growth

13:23 The Art of Personalization and Global Reach of Lucky Straps

16:24 Scaling Handmade Products and Marketing Strategies

19:32 Exploring User-Generated Content and Community Engagement

28:22 Justin's Passion for Action Photography and Wedding Photography Insights

33:38 Exploring New Product Lines: Gloves and Beyond

34:41 Collaboration and Expansion: A New Direction for Lucky Straps

36:15 The Moment Brand Evolution: A Case Study for Growth

40:01 Designing the Ideal Camera Bag: Challenges and Aspirations

44:06 Innovating Quick Release Straps: The Journey and Challenges

51:31 Navigating Online Sales and Brand Focus

54:49 Podcasting Passion: From Photography to Politics

You can check out the straps on www.luckystraps.com

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