Advertise on podcast: The Photographer Mindset

Last week, we explored Aaron’s Instagram detox and evaluated some hot takes from photographers on Threads. This week, we’re back for round two! We dive even deeper into the Threads community, breaking down more opinion posts from photographers and creatives. From debates about building a photography style to whether wedding photographers need to "love" their craft, we’re here to evaluate, elaborate, and share our own perspectives. Expect to Learn: Whether you need to "love" a genre of photography to succeed in itHow to Build and Evolve a Photography StyleWhy finding your community isn’t just about waiting for them to come to you, but about actively participatingWhy black-and-white photography isn’t just for people who "can’t handle color"Why opportunities don’t just fall into your lapSponsors: Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want the highest-quality prints: https://www.whitewall.com/ Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

What happens when a photographer quits Instagram? In this episode, we explore Aaron’s decision to step away from social media and how it’s opened up space for creativity and focus. Then, we dive into hot takes from photographers on Threads, evaluating opinions on everything from personal branding to follower counts. This conversation is about redefining productivity, finding meaning, and navigating the ever-changing world of photography. Expect to Learn: Why deactivating Instagram will free up mental spaceThe importance of intentionally creating space for deep focusWhy focusing on your craft matters more than chasing social media follower numbersWhy you don’t need to travel to exotic locations to take great photosWhy redefining productivity to include rest, reflection, and intentional downtime leads to better creative output Sponsors: Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want the highest-quality prints: https://www.whitewall.com/ Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

Will Jones is a UK-born carpenter, writer, and author of Cabin, a book that chronicles his journey of building a handcrafted retreat in the Canadian wilderness. What can a carpenter and writer teach photographers and videographers about creativity? In a world of constant distractions, Will’s story highlights the power of deep focus, resourcefulness, and embracing simplicity to create meaningful work. Whether you’re crafting a cabin or capturing a moment, how do you push past the noise and make something truly your own as an artist? Expect to Learn: How stripping things down to their essentials can lead to more meaningful creationsHow to shift from a mindset of needing more gear to making the most of what you already haveHow stepping away from distractions and immersing yourself in solitude can unlock your best creative workhow to maintain your artistic integrity while being open to feedbackWhy you should go beyond “good enough” and infuse your work with heart and individualityBuy Will's book "Cabin" here: https://www.amazon.com/Cabin Sponsors: Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want the highest-quality prints: https://www.whitewall.com/ Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

Lily Henry (@lilyhenrycolor) is a professional colorist with a background in photography and a career that spans working on projects for Marvel Studios, Bauer commercials, and even animated hits like Into the Spider-Verse. What does it take to bring a director’s vision to life through color? How do you balance technical precision with artistic creativity? And what’s the secret to making skin tones, lighting, and mood feel just right on any screen? In a world where every screen is different, how do you ensure your work looks stunning everywhere, from a calibrated studio monitor to an iPhone on public transit? Expect to Learn: How to let your footage and raw photographs guide your editing choicesHow to maintain consistency across a portfolio of images or set of scenesHow to spot inconsistencies and approach your work with a fresh perspectiveWhy you should always aim to be "second best" in your creative or professional circleHow to reduce eye strain and improve your color perception. Sponsors: Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Start the New Year with up to $300 off select lenses during their Winter Savings event, now through February 8, 2026. Save on lenses for Sony E-mount, Nikon Z-mount, and FUJIFILM X-mount mirrorless cameras.  Explore here at www.tamron-americas.com Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

Brooke Littlebear (@brookelittlebear) is an incredible wildlife photographer, bear guide, homesteader, and adventurer with a life as unconventional as her career. From living in a camper on her remote property, complete with baby dolls in trees and elk skulls, to guiding bear expeditions in Alaska, Brooke’s journey is a mix of grit, humor, and wild inspiration. So how does a fiercely independent spirit turn a love for bears, photography, and the outdoors into a fruitful and lucrative life unlike any other? Expect to Learn: How embracing the mindset of "the more you know, the less you know" reignites passion in photographyHow meticulous planning and moments of pure luck both play a role in capturing iconic imagesHow to reframe your mindset in a way that eliminates self-doubt How to stay true to what you love while building a sustainable careerBrooke's Website: https://littlebearwildlife.com/ Brooke's Guiding Business Website: https://www.thinkwildexp.com/ Sponsors: Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Kick off the New Year with up to $300 off select lenses during their Winter Savings event, now through February 8, 2026. Upgrade your gear with exceptional lenses for Sony E-mount, Nikon Z-mount, and FUJIFILM X-mount mirrorless cameras. Explore here at www.tamron-americas.com Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

Is boredom the secret to creativity? Can slowing down actually make you more productive? And how do you find balance in a world that demands constant hustle? Aaron and Seth dive into the art of intention, the meditative beauty of photography, and why embracing stillness might be your ultimate creative edge. Expect to Learn: Why crafting a strong narrative is essential for elevating your work and standing out as a creatorHow slowing down and embracing intentionality can help creators struggling to manage multiple projectsHow to reconnect with your craft and find joy in the processHow focusing on one task at a time with clear purpose improves your creative outputWhy reducing reliance on social media and other hyper-stimulating activities will reset your brain and make creative work more fulfillingSponsors: Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Start the New Year with up to $300 off select lenses during their Winter Savings event, now through February 8, 2026. Save on lenses for Sony E-mount, Nikon Z-mount, and FUJIFILM X-mount mirrorless cameras.  Explore here at www.tamron-americas.com Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

Dave Sandford (@davesandford) is a renowned wildlife photographer and polar bear guide. What happens when a celebrated photographer steps out from behind the lens and into a new role? In this episode, Dave shares his journey through a 30-year career, from capturing stunning images of polar bears to navigating the evolving photography industry. We discuss imposter syndrome, the power of storytelling, and finding joy in guiding others to connect with nature. How do we adapt, stay inspired, and remain true to our creative passions? Expect to Learn: The importance of focusing on creating fewer, high-quality imagesHow to navigate shifts in the photography industry and make yourself more competitiveHow even seasoned professionals deal with self-doubt and push through itHow stepping into adjacent roles can open new doors in your creative careerHow to identify what makes your perspective or skills uniqueDave's Website: https://www.davesandfordphotos.com/ Sponsors: Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Kick off the New Year with up to $300 off select lenses during their Winter Savings event, now through February 8, 2026. Upgrade your gear with exceptional lenses for Sony E-mount, Nikon Z-mount, and FUJIFILM X-mount mirrorless cameras. Explore here at www.tamron-americas.com Thanks to WhiteWall for being our secondary sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want the highest-quality prints: https://www.whitewall.com/ Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

It’s the start of 2026, and Aaron is following Seth's episode with a solo episode of his own reflecting on the win, challenges, and takeaways of 2025 for him. Expect to hear Aaron dive into the art of slowing down, the importance of listening to your body, and how a year of "settling in" brought clarity and peace. He shares insights on balancing creativity with consistency, the joy of fostering meaningful relationships, and why happiness truly comes from within. Plus, Aaron opens up about the challenges of running injuries, the lessons learned from back surgery, and how rekindling his love for music became a full-circle moment. This episode is packed with honesty, humor, and a whole lot of life lessons. Expect to Learn: How embracing stillness and being present can lead to deeper self-awareness and fulfillmentThe importance of recognizing and addressing physical red flags before they escalate into bigger issuesWhy true happiness isn’t outsourced to external validationInsights on maintaining steady work, fostering client relationships, and finding joy in creative endeavorsHow fostering close relationships and spending time with loved ones can be the most rewarding investment of timeSponsors: Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want the highest-quality prints: https://www.whitewall.com/ Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

It’s the start of 2026, and I’m (Seth) kicking things off with a solo episode reflecting on the highs, lows, and lessons of 2025. Expect to learn how I balanced the artistic mind with the business mind, why stepping away from social media made me a more fulfilled creator, the surprising productivity of stillness and boredom, and how I found deeper meaning in my video work. I’ll also share lessons from running injuries, the joy of teaching my niece and nephew about nature, and why my dog learning to swim became an unexpected highlight of 2025 along with much, much more.... Expect to Learn: Why you should set three challenging goals each year that have a 50% chance of failureHow to identify and finish incomplete tasks or projects to reduce mental clutterWhy eliminating social media can improve your creative outputHow dedicating 20-30 minutes to complete stillness will help you come up with solutions to problemsHow to apply the "3-2-1 system" to structure your day for ultimate productivity and eliminate the non-essentialSponsors: Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want the highest-quality prints! https://www.whitewall.com/ Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

Ian Jones (@iansjones) is a Pittsburgh-based commercial photographer and creative strategist known for crafting bold, story-driven visuals for brands and businesses, with a focus on content that connects, performs, and stands out. Expect to Learn:  How to tactfully ask potential clients about their current marketing effortsThe importance of educating clients about what they’re missing from or overpaying to social/marketing agenciesHow to create mock-up ads or showcase relevant portfolio work that demonstrates your capabilitiesHow being a local creator can give you an edge over large marketing agenciesHow explaining your process can help win over clients who may feel jaded by previous experiences.Ian's Website: https://www.isjdesigns.com/ Sponsors: Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want the highest-quality prints! Use the code TPM2025 at checkout for 15% off: https://www.whitewall.com/ Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

In this episode, Seth and Aaron catch up on life’s recent challenges and wins. Aaron shares his journey through back surgery recovery, while Seth reflects on creative growth and pricing strategies. They also dive into a unique collaboration where Aaron’s 10-year-old son lent his voice to a video project for Seth, showcasing the power of collaboration and authenticity. Expect to Learn: How small, consistent efforts lead to meaningful progress over timehow to approach creative teamwork with professionalism and authenticityWhy taking time to look back on your progress helps you stay motivatedHow to navigate setbacks and use them as opportunities for growthSponsors: Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want the highest-quality prints! https://www.whitewall.com/ Thanks also to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today’s episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner’s photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. Deadline to submit is December 31st 2025!  Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpm Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

What happens when your body forces you to stop? Aaron shares the story of his sudden back injury, the decision to undergo emergency surgery, and the mindset needed to face recovery. From ignoring warning signs to embracing a full reset, we explore the balance between pushing through and knowing when to pull back. What does it take to rebuild stronger, and how can setbacks become opportunities for growth? Expect to Learn: How to differentiate between pushing through discomfort and addressing underlying issuesHow to set boundaries and step back from commitments when prioritizing yourself and recoveryHow to mentally navigate setbacks and reframe challenges as opportunitiesWhy having a strong support system is crucial during tough times and how to lean on them without guiltSponsors: Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints! Order by December 16th 2025 to receive your print(s) before Christmas! : https://www.whitewall.com/ Thanks also to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today’s episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner’s photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. Deadline to submit is December 31st 2025!  Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpm Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

Bram Berkien (@bramberkien) is a Dutch photographer celebrated for his ability to capture the human side of elite sports. As the official photographer for Visma-Lease a Bike (formerly Jumbo-Visma), Bram has spent the last seven years documenting the world’s top cyclists, including their highs, lows, and everything in between at the Tour de France. In this episode, Bram shares what it’s like to work behind the scenes with some of the most dedicated athletes on the planet. From the trust it takes to photograph intimate moments on the team bus to the creative challenges of balancing action shots, sponsor content, and personal storytelling, Bram reveals the art of capturing authenticity in high-pressure environments. We also explore his journey from stacking suitcases at an airport to photographing cycling’s biggest stage, the lessons he’s learned from elite athletes, and why the human side of sport is where the real magic happens. Expect to Learn: How to build trust with high-profile subjectsHow to anticipate key moments at eventsHow to balance multiple roles as a photographerLessons from elite athletes on sacrifice and perseverance Why behind-the-scenes moments can create more compelling stories than traditional action photographyBram's Website: https://bramberkien.com/ Sponsors: Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Check out their brand-new 25-200mm F/2.8 all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount, perfect for travel and everyday shooting. Learn more at www.tamron-americas.com Thanks to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today’s episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner’s photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpm Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

In this episode we explore the power of deliberately stopping while you’re still in the creative zone. We discuss how walking away at the right moment while editing or working on a project can preserve momentum, protect your energy, and lead to better results. With personal stories, practical strategies, and even a pizza analogy, this conversation is packed with insights to help you stay fresh and inspired in your creative process. Expect to Learn: Why ending your creative session while you’re still energized can make it easier to dive back in the next dayHow deliberately setting a time limit before starting a project can keep you focused and even make unpleasant tasks more manageableHow intentionally stepping away from a project can help you catch mistakes and spark newer and better ideasHow pushing too hard for too long during a creative session can lead to lower-quality ideas Why consistency often beats intensity in creative workSponsors: Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Check out their brand-new 25-200mm F/2.8 all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount, perfect for travel and everyday shooting. Learn more at www.tamron-americas.com. Thanks also to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today’s episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner’s photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. The deadline to submit is December 31st 2025! Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpm Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

Why does success often feel like a moving target? In this episode, we explore the highs and lows of the creative journey, from embarrassing shoot stories and drone disasters to the mindset shifts that keep us as photographers inspired. Expect honest reflections on the pressures of social media, the pursuit of passion over perfection, and why the creative process never truly gets easier. Expect to Learn: Why reaching milestones doesn’t always bring the satisfaction you expectHow to stay true to your creative valuesWhy reaching a new level in your craft often feels normal or underwhelmingHow to protect your love for photography by setting boundaries Sponsors: Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Their Holiday Instant Savings are here! Save up to $300 on select lenses for Sony, Nikon, and FUJIFILM mirrorless cameras now through January 11th, 2026. Explore here at www.tamron-americas.com  Thanks also to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today’s episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner’s photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. The deadline to submit is December 31st 2025! Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpm Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show