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In an industry often driven by trends, shot lists, and repeatable formulas, wedding photographer John Dolan has built a career by doing the opposite: showing up with an open mind, a few film cameras, and a deep respect for what actually unfolds on a wedding day. In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, John and I dig into what it really means to be "true" to a couple's experience. Rather than manufacturing moments or chasing perfection, John approaches weddings as a blank slate, allowing the day to reveal itself organically. That philosophy carries through every aspect of his work, from how he interacts with couples to his continued commitment to shooting film in an overwhelmingly digital world. If you're a wedding photographer feeling burned out by formulas, overwhelmed by the pressure to perform for social media, or simply curious about a more honest, grounded approach to storytelling, this episode offers a refreshing reminder: you don't need to invent meaning - sometimes your job is just to notice it. Episode Promos This episode includes promos for the following: Siteground Web Hosting - https://siteground.com/go.nerdy Stylecloud Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/ Luminar NEO Image Editing Software - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/luminar Aftershoot AI Culling, Editing, and Retouching - https://aftershoot.com/?ref=nerdyphoto Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe to the podcast and tell your friends (and enemies!) Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/nerdy-photographer If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest John Dolan is a long time photographer. You can learn more about his book, The Perfect Imperfect on his website - https://www.johndolan.com/book-shop/p/the-perfect-imperfect-book-2nd-edition About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com    If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

The photography industry isn't "dying." But it is changing, and it is doing so QUICKLY. In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, we talk with industry icon, Joe McNally, and take an honest look at the seismic shifts happening in photography right now: technology, AI, oversaturation, social media economics, shifting client expectations, and what it actually takes to get started today. The industry isn't collapsing. It's restructuring. Episode Promos Adorama - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/adorama/ Stylecloud Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/ On1 Photo Editing Software - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/on1/ Siteground Web Hosting - https://siteground.com/go/nerdy Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe to the podcast! Tell your friends about the podcast Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest Joe McNally is an internationally acclaimed, award-winning photographer whose prolific career includes assignments in nearly 70 countries. McNally is often described as: Authentic, articulate, an exceptional technical photographer whose varied skill set means he is called upon often for the "unusual" or "challenging" job. But no job is too big or too small for McNally because he loves photographing anything or anyone interesting in front of his lens. Joe McNally is also known world-wide for his unmatched visual creativeness and extraordinary imagination. He is calm under pressure and excels in the field whether it is a portrait of a celebrity or corporate CEO to an unwieldy fashion shoot with a crew of 60. Joe McNally's credit list includes FIVE covers of the National Geographic, (amongst an overall 15 coverages for the magazine), SEVEN Covers of Life Magazine and FOUR successful Olympic coverages. McNally has also climbed the Empire State Building 4x and the Burj Khalifa tower 2x. A proud Nikon Ambassador, he is the rare photographer to make the bridge between photojournalism and commercial photography and has the distinct ability to come away with a photograph no matter the twist or turns he might encounter on assignment. You can find Joe on Instagram @joemcnallyphoto or check out his new community for photographers https://betterpictureswithjoe.com (use promo code 26POD to save!) About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com    If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

Is photography a form of magic? In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer, we explore how art transforms the unseen into something tangible. From photographing witch-centric and paranormal businesses to using intuition, ritual, and atmosphere in the creative process, this conversation dives deep into the mystical side of photography. If you believe art is more than just technique, this episode is for you. Why This Conversation Matters At a time when photography is often reduced to trends, algorithms, and performance metrics, this episode is a reminder that art still has the power to be mysterious, personal, and transformative. Photography doesn't just show us what is. At its best, it invites us to consider what might be. Episode Promos This episode contains promos for: On1 Photo Raw - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/on1/ Siteground Web Hosting - https://aftershoot.com/?ref=nerdyphoto StyleCloud WP Website Themes - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/ Adorama - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/adorama Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe and tell your friends - sharing is caring! Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest A lifelong photographer, Justine J. Kenahan started her photography journey as a teen and focused her studies in college on art and communication. While balancing a career in advertising, she created Piquant Photo as a freelance business in order to fulfill her dream of being a professional artist. She is motivated by capturing the authenticity of her subjects and telling visual stories of truth, magic, passion, and personal power. Her work often explores the intersections of fashion and identity, as well as women-centric motifs and metaphysical themes. Justine has taught workshops, worked with brands and influencers, and has been featured in various publications and galleries locally and nationally. Outside of photography, Justine shares her life with her husband, young daughter, and beloved dog. She enjoys boating, food, and catching up on TV shows. You can learn more about Justine and view her work at https://piquantphoto.com & https://inhermagic.com About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com    If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

What does it really mean to be a neurodivergent freelancer in photography? In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer, we talk openly about ADHD, autism, burnout, structure, creativity, and building a freelance career that works with your brain - not against it. If traditional advice has never worked for you, this conversation might finally make sense. What We Talk About in This Episode This interview covers the real-world realities of neurodivergent freelancing, including: Managing energy, attention, and overwhelm Creating structure without rigidity Navigating client communication and expectations Redefining success outside traditional productivity models Letting go of comparison and "shoulds" Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, this conversation encourages photographers to design careers that reflect how they actually function. Redefining Professionalism Being professional doesn't mean masking. It doesn't mean burning yourself out to meet arbitrary standards. And it doesn't mean copying how others work. For neurodivergent photographers, sustainability often comes from self-awareness, boundaries, and permission to work differently. This episode is a reminder that there is no single way to be a "real" photographer - or a successful freelancer. Episode Promos This episode contains promos for: On1 Photo Raw - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/on1/ Siteground Web Hosting - https://siteground.com/go/nerdy StyleCloud WP Website Themes - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/ Adorama - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/adorama Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe to the podcast! Tell your friends about the podcast Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest Aly Hansen is a wedding photographer who specializes in film photography and a true documentary approach. You can view Aly's work on her website - https://alyhansenphoto.com - or on Instagram https://instagram.com/alyhansenweddings About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com    If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact      

The photography world is louder than ever - but are we actually listening? In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer, we explore why thoughtful conversation matters, how hot takes hurt creativity, and what the future of meaningful dialogue in photography should look like. If you care about photography as an art form, not just content, this conversation is essential. Slow down the noise Think deeper about images Elevate the conversation Thoughtful Conversations Shape Better Work Meaningful dialogue allows photographers to: Develop stronger visual literacy Understand historical and cultural context Learn from disagreement without hostility Create work rooted in intention rather than reaction This episode encourages photographers to move beyond surface-level debates and embrace conversations that are informed, empathetic, and expansive. Looking Toward the Future As the industry evolves—through technology, AI, and changing cultural landscapes—the way photographers communicate will matter more than ever. The future of photography isn't just technical. It's philosophical. If we want better images, better communities, and better careers, we need better conversations. Episode Promos This episode includes promos for the following: Adorama Stylecloud Website Templates On1 Photo Editing Software BackBlaze Cloud Data Backup Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe to the podcast! Tell your friends about the podcast Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://caseyfatchettphotography.pic-time.com/art Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest  Ibarionex Perello is a photographer, writer and educator. He is also the host/producer of The Candid Frame photography podcast. He has over 40 years in the photographic industry including time as a magazine editor, and author. He currently works as a special projects photographer for the Huntington Library in Southern California. You can listen to Ibarionex on his podcast – thecandidframe.com – or on Instagram – @ibarionex About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com    If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact    

Lighting Black skin isn't complicated - but it is often taught wrong. In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer, we break down how to photograph darker skin tones beautifully, accurately, and intentionally. From highlights and contrast to common lighting mistakes photographers make, this is a must-listen conversation for anyone serious about portrait photography. Learn better lighting Create stronger images Photograph people more honestly For decades, photography education, film stock, and digital camera technology have been built around a narrow definition of "correct" exposure - one that often fails Black and darker-skinned subjects. The result? Images that lack depth, nuance, and respect for the full spectrum of skin tones. In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer, we dive deep into the art, science, and responsibility of lighting Black-skinned subjects properly. This is not about shortcuts or presets - it's about understanding light, skin, and intention. Episode Promos This episode includes promos for the following: Adorama Stylecloud Website Templates On1 Photo Editing Software BackBlaze Cloud Data Backup Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe to the podcast! Tell your friends about the podcast Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://caseyfatchettphotography.pic-time.com/art Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest  Leighton DaCosta, or "LD" as many know him by, is a Wedding and Fine Art Portrait Photographer based in Southern California, at the moment. He started his photography business more than 15 years ago while serving in the Navy. Due to the military requirements, he learned to make his studio "interstate mobile" as he has operated for extended periods in Virginia, Florida, Utah, Georgia, South Carolina, and California. He's conducted photo assignments in exotic and remote places such as Dubai, Jamaica, and Aruba; as well as several years flying over Afghanistan. When not creating content of his own, Leighton diligently works at educating photographers and others in the industry in not only content creation but also in business practices geared for the creative. You can check out Leighton's website at LeightonD.com, and follow along with him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com    If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact      

Want to build a long, healthy, and profitable photography career? Wedding photography legend Ryan Brenizer reveals exactly how he's stayed at the top for years. In this episode, we dive into: How to scale your photography business without burning out Staying physically healthy in a demanding, gear-heavy profession Adapting to trends while maintaining your personal style The mindset shifts required for long-term creative success How to stay relevant in a constantly changing industry Whether you're a new photographer or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with practical advice for building a career that actually lasts. Listen and learn how to future-proof your photography business. Episode Promos This episode contains promos for: StyleCloud WordPress Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/ On1 Photo Raw - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/on1/ Backblaze Cloud Data Backup - https://www.backblaze.com/cloud-backup/personal#afc32p Aftershoot AI Culling, Editing, and Retouching Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe to the podcast! Tell your friends about the podcast Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest Ryan Brenizer is a New York–area wedding photographer known for turning real moments into cinematic images. He's photographed 900+ weddings and four U.S. presidents, been blessed by a pope, and once got stared down by Muhammad Ali. A depth-of-field panorama approach widely known as the Brenizer Method bears his name. Nearly two decades in, he still builds every frame on the same principles: honesty first, story over spectacle, and technique in service of people. You can see Ryan's work at his website - https://thebrenizers.com - or on Instagram https://instagram.com/thebrenizers About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com    If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact  

The American Southwest monsoon season is one of the most dramatic weather events on Earth, and landscape photographer Jake Case is right in the heart of it. In this episode, we dive into storm chasing, lightning photography, and what it takes to safely capture explosive desert weather. What you can expect: Insider tips on photographing monsoon storms How Jake got involved with storm chasing What you must know before embarking on storm chasing Gear, safety, apps, and the art of reading the sky Wild stories from the desert during peak monsoon season If you've ever wanted to capture lightning, chase storms, or experience the Southwest in its most dramatic form, this episode is packed with inspiration and real-world advice. Tune in and learn how to photograph monsoon magic, without getting yourself fried by lightning Episode Promos This episode contains promos for: On1 Photo Raw - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/on1/ Aftershoot AI Culling, Editing, and Retouching - https://aftershoot.com/?ref=nerdyphoto Backblaze Cloud Data Backup - https://www.backblaze.com/cloud-backup/personal#afc32p Elementor Website Builder - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/elementor/ Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe to the podcast! Leave a review and tell your friends - spread the word! Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://thenerdyphoto.dashery.com Just give us some money - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest Jake Case is a photographer and writer based in Arizona, specializing in nature, landscape, storm, and architectural photography. Through his work, he explores the intersections of human history and the natural world, with a focus on storytelling and capturing the beauty of both the built and natural environments. He's the co-author of the book "Arizona: A Photographic Journey" and also shares his experiences on his blog, Mountain Tripper. You can find Jake on his website – https://mountaintripper.com – or on Instagram – https://instagram.com/jakecasephoto About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 25 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's work at https://caseyfphoto.com   If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact      

It's been a record-breaking year for The Nerdy Photographer Podcast! In this special episode, I take a moment to reflect on the incredible growth we've experienced—and to thank all of you who made it possible. This year brought some huge milestones: Featured on five different photography podcasts Quoted in more than a dozen articles across the industry Podcast downloads up over 75% from last year, our biggest year yet - not including record number of streams on YouTube YouTube subscribers up 50% and growing fast A stronger, more active community of photographers than ever before across all social media platforms I'm beyond grateful for every listener, guest, and supporter who's helped the show (and me personally) grow this year. Your enthusiasm, feedback, and participation keep this community thriving. Tune in now for a heartfelt look back at how far we've come - and what's next for The Nerdy Photographer Podcast as we continue growing, learning, and sharing together. Join the Community There are lots of ways to join in the Nerdy Photographer community and help us grow. Here are a few of the simplest and most effective ways: Subscribe to the podcast. Tell your friends about the podcast. Leave reviews. Follow (and interact!) on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe on YouTube -  https://youtube.com/CaseyFatchett About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com    If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact    

Tired of seeing photographers bash others online just to gain clout? In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, we tackle the trend of newer photographers criticizing more experienced pros, and explore how to spend your energy more productively. We cover: Why rage-baiting backfires – the short-term attention versus long-term impact. Learning from experience – how respecting seasoned photographers can accelerate your growth. Building your voice authentically – growing your presence without negativity. The value of collaboration – how mentorship and community foster success. Investing in yourself – using time and energy on projects, skills, and learning instead of online drama. If you've ever felt caught up in comparison or online conflict, this episode provides practical advice for focusing on your craft, building meaningful connections, and contributing positively to the photography community. Listen now to learn how to rise above the noise and grow as a photographer with purpose. Episode Promos This episode contains promos for: Nerdy Photographer Let's Be Real Unposed Photography Prompts StyleCloud WordPress Website Templates Siteground Web Hosting Backblaze Cloud Data Backup Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe to the podcast! Tell your friends about the podcast Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest Brandi Potter is a destination wedding photographer with a love for darkness and emotion. She likes her dogs and the winter time. You can find her work on her website – brandi-potter.com – or on Instagram @bran.potter About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's work at https://caseyfphoto.com   If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact      

As AI and automation transform photography, one question keeps coming up: how do we keep the humanity in our images? In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, I talk with photographer and tech innovator Sam Hurd about finding balance between embracing technology and preserving the emotional, human side of photography. We explore: Art vs. automation – using tech to amplify creativity, not replace it. AI with intention – treating AI tools as collaborators, not shortcuts. The emotional core – why empathy, connection, and storytelling still matter most. The beauty of imperfection – how flaws and unpredictability make photos feel real. Future-proofing creativity – staying adaptable without losing your artistic voice. If you've ever wondered where photography ends and technology begins - or worried that AI might dull your creative edge - this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now to hear Sam Hurd's insights on how photographers can stay authentic, creative, and human in a rapidly evolving digital world. Episode Promos This episode contains promos for: Nerdy Photographer Let's Be Real Unposed Photography Prompts - https://nerdyphotographer.com/lets-be-real/ StyleCloud WordPress Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/ Siteground Web Hosting - https://siteground.com/go/nerdy Backblaze Cloud Data Backup - https://www.backblaze.com/cloud-backup/personal#afc32p Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe to the podcast! Tell your friends about the podcast Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest Starting as a political news and celebrity portrait photographer in DC, Sam was instantly drawn to wedding photography as a space to promote more inventive ideas. Sam's focus is on photographic techniques that are deceptively simple but have the potential to transform difficult or uninspiring shooting environments into one-of-a-kind opportunities for every photo made. You can learn more about Sam and view his work on his Patreon – patreon.com/samhurd – or on Instagram @iamthesam About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com    If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact

Every year, as the holidays approach, photographers are bombarded with ads promising that the next lens, light, or gadget will finally take their work to the next level. The deals are tempting, the pressure is real—and it's easy to believe that "better gear" equals "better photographer." In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, we dive into how to survive the holiday marketing frenzy and refocus your energy on growth that actually matters. Instead of chasing discounts, this conversation is about investing in yourself: your creativity, your craft, and your purpose. We explore how to tune out the noise, resist the constant call to consume, and make intentional choices about where to expand in your photography journey - whether that means learning new skills, starting a personal project, or refining your artistic vision. Here's what you'll take away from this episode: Recognizing the Hype – How the photo industry's marketing cycle is designed to create FOMO and how to step back from it. Purposeful Expansion – Ways to grow as a photographer without spending a dime—through experimentation, education, and community. Mindful Purchasing – How to evaluate what you actually need versus what marketers tell you you're missing. Refocusing on Creativity – Why the best investments often come from time, attention, and curiosity—not gear. Building a Sustainable Mindset – Approaching your photography career with balance and long-term purpose instead of impulse-driven consumption. This episode is a reminder that no sale can buy skill, vision, or passion. True growth comes from practice, purpose, and presence - not your credit card balance. Tune in now to hear how you can thrive during the holiday marketing season and make meaningful, lasting investments in your photography journey. If you ARE in the market for some useful tools for your photography business and want to take advantage of the deals available this time of year, check out our compiled list of the ultimate Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals for photographers - https://nerdyphotographer.com/news/black-friday-deals-photographers/

Thinking about pivoting your photography business? Rebranding can feel risky, but it may be the key to unlocking new opportunities. In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, I sit down with photographer Justin Haugen, who successfully transitioned from being a wedding photographer to building a thriving commercial photography brand. We discuss: Knowing when to pivot – signs your current niche isn't serving your long-term goals. Rebranding strategies – reshaping your portfolio, website, and marketing to reach new clients. Leveraging past experience – how skills from one genre can build credibility in another. Communicating the shift – managing how clients and peers view your rebrand. Opportunities ahead – the doors that open when you align your work with your vision. If you've ever wondered how to move beyond your current niche—or feared losing momentum by making a change—this episode will give you a roadmap for rebranding your photography business with confidence. Tune in now to hear Justin Haugen's story and practical advice for photographers ready to reinvent their careers. Episode Promos This episode contains promos for: BackBlaze Cloud Data Backup Services - https://www.backblaze.com/cloud-backup/personal#afc32p Style Cloud Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/ Siteground Website Hosting - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/pic-time/ Narrative AI Culling, Editing, and Publishing - https://narrative.so/select?affiliate=casey2746 Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe if you enjoyed the episode! Tell other photographers about the podcast Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest Justin is a Photographer hailing from Tucson, Arizona by way of Seoul, Korea. Having first picked up a camera in 2004, Justin has experienced several photography careers, but now finds himself in corporate and commercial spaces as he raises his young children with his wife. Justin is a Tamron USA ambassador and sometimes educator. You can see more of Justin's work at his website - https://JustinHaugen.com - or on Instagram https://instagram.com/photowarlock About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his corporate, event, and portraiture work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com    If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact      

Tired of feeling like you have to follow every social media trend to get noticed? Authenticity wins. In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, we talk with California photographer Linda Alida about how photographers can build a genuine presence, both online and in person, without compromising their voice or values. We dive into: Authenticity online – how to share real work and personality instead of copying trends. Meaningful connections in person – building trust with clients, collaborators, and peers. Balancing visibility and integrity – growing your reach while staying true to your vision. Consistency over virality – why long-term presence matters more than chasing fleeting trends. Defining your voice – tips for creating a recognizable, authentic style. If you've ever felt pressured to post what's popular rather than what's real, this episode gives you practical tools for standing out in a trend-driven industry while staying true to yourself. Listen now to learn how authenticity - online and off - can help you build a lasting presence in photography. Episode Promos This episode contains promos for: Let's Be Real Unposed Photography Prompts - https://nerdyphotographer.com/lets-be-real Style Cloud Website Templates - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/ Siteground Website Hosting - https://siteground.com/go/nerdy Nerdy Photographer Contract Templates - https://nerdyphotographer.com/product-tag/contract/ Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe to the podcast! Tell your friends about the podcast Join our mailing list - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://caseyfatchettphotography.pic-time.com/art Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://www.teepublic.com/stores/nerdy-photographer If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest Linda Alida is a California-based photographer with a knack for making magic out of messes—whether that's a chaotic wedding timeline or a dandelion growing through concrete. She blends emotional honesty with a wild sense of humor, capturing real moments that feel like memories you forgot you had. Known for saying the quiet parts out loud (sometimes too loud), Linda has built a fast-growing audience on Threads by being as unfiltered in her words as she is intentional in her art. Weddings, portraits, macro, landscapes—whatever the subject, she shows up with heart, a camera, and probably a weird face. You can see more of Linda's work on her website - https://lindaalida.com - or on Instagram https://instagram.com/linda_alida_ About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com    If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact      

What happens when a photographer starts to lose his vision - but not in the way he thinks? In this chilling Halloween episode of The Nerdy Photographer Podcast, I share an original horror story that blends photography, obsession, and the terrifying cost of creative ambition. Expect: A haunting tale of artistic obsession and self-destruction A photographer who discovers the true meaning of "losing vision" Psychological tension, eerie twists, and plenty of atmosphere A dark reflection on the fears that haunt every artist Perfect for fans of eerie storytelling, this episode explores how passion can turn into something much more sinister when we lose sight - literally and figuratively - of what really matters. Listen now to "Creative Vision" and experience a spine-tingling story that will make every photographer question what it truly means to see. Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe to the podcast! Tell your friends about the podcast Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/   About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. Except during SPOOOOOOKY SEASON when he also wants to scare you...in an entertaining way. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com    If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact