Advertise on podcast: This Week in Photo (TWiP)

This week it's an illuminating conversation with photographer and compositing artist Joel Robison. Renowned for his imaginative works, Joel takes us on a journey through his photographic process and the underlying motivations that fuel his creativity. We delve into the intriguing intersection of art and technology and explore the evolving landscape of photography and compositing, particularly in light of Generative AI's burgeoning influence. About Joel Robison Joel is a Canadian creative conceptual photographer currently based in the UK. Hiswork is a blend of whimsy and surrealism mixed into honest storytelling, often usingself-portraits that allow the viewer to follow the creative narrative in his images with him as themain character. He has spent the last decade developing his creative style and his work hasbeen featured in publications and galleries worldwide. He is a strong supporter of community,especially within the creative world, and teaches workshops and classes that focus ondeveloping the creative identity and exploring the creative narrative inside us all. Instagram - @joelrobisonFacebook - facebook.com/joelrobisonphotographyFlickr - https://www.flickr.com/photos/joel_rPatreon - www.patreon.com/joelrobisonWebsite - www.joelrobison.com

This week, Jake Hicks and Alastair Jolly join me, Frederick Van Johnson, to contemplate how generative AI may have the potential to revolutionize—or perhaps even dismantle—the traditional stock photography industry. Don't miss this engaging conversation where technology meets art. About Jake Hicks ©Jake Hicks Jake Hicks is an acclaimed photographer known for his distinctive approach to color and lighting in photography, which sets him apart in the industry. Specializing in portrait and fashion photography, Jake has carved a niche for himself by creating visually stunning images that combine vibrant colors with intricate lighting techniques. His work is characterized by its creativity, use of color gels, and the ability to transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary visual experiences. Beyond his work behind the camera, Jake Hicks is also recognized for his educational contributions to the photography community. He conducts workshops and writes extensively, sharing his knowledge and skills with both aspiring and established photographers. He demystifies complex lighting setups and color theory through his tutorials and articles, making them accessible to a broader audience. Jake Hicks Photography is not just about capturing images; it's about creating art that inspires and educates. Whether through his captivating photographic work or his commitment to teaching, Jake continues to influence and shape the landscape of contemporary photography. http://www.jakehicksphotography.com About Alastair Jolly ©Alastiar Jolly Alastair Jolly is a seasoned professional in the photography industry with over 20 years of experience. His career has primarily focused on social and commercial photography, yet he has consistently dedicated time to pursue personal projects fueled by his passion for creativity and imagery. AMJ Visuals is the platform where he showcases this personal work, revealing a diverse range of subjects that capture his creative impulses. Jolly's artistic journey is characterized by his versatility and willingness to explore various photographic directions. He exhibits equal enthusiasm for capturing the serene beauty of long-exposure sea and cityscapes, the grandeur of vast landscapes, and the vibrant scenes encountered during city Photowalks. In his current roles at SmugMug & Flickr, Jolly enjoys the unique privilege of traveling extensively and collaborating with some of the world's most talented photographers. Despite his busy schedule, he remains committed to finding moments for personal reflection and creativity, always ensuring that there is time for him and his camera to explore the world together. http://amj.smugmug.com Jake Hicks' Gallery (no AI) a href="https://thisweekinphoto.

Get ready for a TWiP encore presentation that stands the test of time! Originally aired in 2016, this episode features host Doug Kaye joining forces with Gordon Laing from CameraLabs.com to dive deep into the world of micro-four-thirds (MFT) lenses. This episode is a comprehensive guide to the top MFT lenses of 2016, covering everything from kit zooms and fisheyes to wide-angle, standard, telephoto, macro, and even extreme telephoto options. Wondering whether to stick with the kit lens or upgrade when purchasing your next MFT camera? Are you curious about the benefits of prime lenses? Looking for advice on the best lens to add to your collection? Doug and Gordon have got you covered with expert insights and recommendations. For a more detailed exploration of each lens featured in the roundup, be sure to check out CameraLabs.com (http://cameralabs.com).

It's 2024, and Flickr is hitting the big two-oh! That's twenty years of capturing moments, unparalleled community, and innovation that's kept us clicking, viewing, and sharing. Flickr has been a constant in this whirlwind of change—a digital home for photographers worldwide, from the casual shutterbug to the seasoned pro. A Birthday Bash: Flickr's 20th in Style As they roll out the red carpet for Flickr's 20th, it's not just about looking back; it's about charging forward—cameras (or phones) in hand. Photowalks are making a grand return — with a signature event on San Francisco’s The Embarcadero, led by yours truly, and hopefully, some friends of TWiP will make an appearance, including PhotowalkTV's Jefferson Graham. And across the pond, on Saturday, February 10th, Smugmug's Alastair Jolly will lead a London-based Photowalk! What: Flickr's 20th Birthday Embarcadero Photowalk! Who: Guided by Frederick Van JohnsonWhen: February 24th, 10:30 AM - 12 PM PST---START: 10:30 AM PT - Red's Java House, Pier 30, The Embarcadero, San FranciscoEND: 12:00 PM PT - Pier 23 Cafe, 23 The Embarcadero, San Francisco >> Come as you are; no RSVP are necessary! Red's Java House, The Embarcadero S, San Francisco Share your Pink and Blue Shots! This anniversary is more than just a milestone; it's a canvas for our collective creativity. The "Capturing the Flickr Colors" photo contest is your chance to shine, showcasing the iconic Flickr pink and blue in ways only you can imagine. Share your favorite blue and hot pink photos for a chance to win a birthday prize package. These moments of creativity remind us why we fell in love with photography in the first place. The day Flickr turns 20—its Explore page will be awash in a sea of pink and blue, a tribute to the images and moments that bind us. Also, be sure to join more than 14,000 photographers in the vibrant TWiP group on Flickr! We'd love to see your shots and discuss them. Looking Ahead As we toast to twenty years of Flickr, we also set our sights on the horizon. What's next for this platform that's become a cornerstone of our photographic lives? Rest assured, the journey is far from over. With the unwavering support of communities like TWiP, Flickr is poised to redefine the boundaries of photography, storytelling, and community engagement. So, here's to Flickr, to TWiP, and to you—our global community of photographers. We've created a legacy of imagery, innovation, and inspiration. And together, we'll continue to capture the world in all its unfathomable beauty. Cheers to twenty years, and here's to many more adventures behind the lens.

Join Rob Grimm, a food and beverage photography visionary, as he shares his adventure into blending traditional techniques with groundbreaking LCD background projection technology inspired by 'The Mandalorian.' With a bold and graphic style honed through working with top international brands, Rob takes us on a journey beyond the lens, where the magic of cinema meets the precision of commercial photography. Portfolio Review: https://youtu.be/xRWurESdv7A About Rob Grimm Rob Grimm is a commercial director, photographer, and educational instructor. He works mainly in food and beverage photography, specializing in glass and liquids. His bold and graphic style has been employed by a client list of international brands as long as your left arm, including the likes of Jack Daniel’s, Bacardi, Woodford Reserve, Brown Forman, Kraft, and Panera, to name a few. Rob Grimm With experience running full-service studios in both Chicago and St. Louis, Rob has a unique perspective on the business of commercial photography. In 2014, he co-founded PRO EDU, an educational company that produces tutorials for every photography genre. At PRO EDU, Rob delivered international training through online video courses and led a community of elite photographers around the world as they shared their trade secrets with future generations of visual artists. At the start of 2020, Rob left the company to get back behind the camera, executing images for his clients where he is happiest. When Rob’s not shooting in his studio, you will likely find him rowing on the lake, building furniture in his workshop, cooking in the kitchen, working in the yard, or running about town with his wife and two daughters. He also has five cats. Yes, that’s a lot of cats. https://www.rggphoto.comhttps://www.instagram.com/rggphoto

Join Jefferson Graham and Frederick Van Johnson as they discuss their individual experiences with Meta's new Ray-ban smartglasses. These smart specs come equipped with surprising audio and video capabilities. Five microphones ensure crystal-clear audio capture, making them ideal for vloggers and content creators. The vertical video feature, while initially controversial, aligns with the growing trend of vertical content consumption on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Watch the video and find out if this new tech makes the cut! Check out the Meta Ray-Ban Smartglasses here.Connect with Jefferson Graham on Photowalkstv.comJoin the TWiP community at http://join.thisweekinphoto.com

In this eye-opening episode of our podcast, host Frederick Van Johnson and co-host Alastair Jolly dive into CES 2024. They discuss why this year's event felt particularly underwhelming for the photography community. From the lack of groundbreaking camera tech to the minimal focus on photography-centric innovations, they dissect the reasons behind this disappointment and what it could mean for the future of photography tech. Picks of the Week:Alastair: LEGO Polaroid One-Step Frederick: OWC Atlas FXRFrederick: Laptop Drive Sleeve to stick Atlas FXR to the back of a laptop

This week, we're taking a special journey back in time to one of our most enlightening episodes from 2018. In this encore presentation, we're rejoining the incredible world of macro photography with none other than Don Komarechka, a master of the unseen and the overlooked wonders of the natural world. Based in Barrie, Ontario, Don has carved a unique niche in photography, revealing the intricate beauty of subjects as small as snowflakes and as vast as the night sky. His work is not just about capturing images; it's about storytelling and exploring the universe in ways our eyes can't perceive on their own. So, sit back, relax, and let's re-explore the microscopic with Don Komarechka. https://www.donkom.ca About Don Komarechka Don Komarechka is a renowned macro and nature photographer hailing from Barrie, Ontario, Canada. His photographic journey is a testament to the unseen beauty of the natural world, capturing everything from the ethereal glow of auroras to the intricate details of pollen and insects. Don's work is a celebration of the universe's hidden wonders, offering a glimpse into what lies beyond the reach of our unaided vision. With a passion for exploring and understanding the world, Don has gained notoriety for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to unravel nature's mysteries through his lens. His first mass-produced book, "Sky Crystals," intricately examines the complexities of snowflakes, revealing a world of beauty and symmetry that often goes unnoticed. Don's contributions to the realm of photography extend far beyond his stunning images. He is an educator and mentor, teaching workshops in nature, macro photography, photographic editing, and creative compositions. His philosophy that photography allows us to share our unique view of the world without words is deeply embedded in his teaching approach. His work has not only captivated audiences but has also garnered the attention of prestigious organizations. The Royal Canadian Mint featured one of his snowflake images on a limited-edition silver coin, and his imagery has been integral to documentaries by the BBC and Discovery Channel, showcasing his expertise in macro photography and focus stacking techniques. Untrained in science but driven by scientific curiosity, Don continually pushes the boundaries of modern camera technology and the physical limitations of light itself. His goal is to produce visually stunning images that encourage viewers to re-evaluate and appreciate the world around them in new ways. "Don Komarechka: pushing the limits of light and perception, one photograph at a time.

This week, we ventured into this heartwarming realm, exploring how photography can be transformed into unique and personal gifts. This exploration is not just for professional photographers looking to offer something special to their clients but also for anyone who loves capturing life's moments and wants to share that joy with others. The Essence of Photography as a Gift Photography is an art form that freezes moments in time, encapsulating emotions and stories within a frame. These captured moments can become the most personal and cherished gifts. Unlike mass-produced items, a photograph you've taken carries a piece of your perspective, your emotions, and your story. It's a gift that says, "I was thinking of you, and here's a moment I feel you would cherish." For Professional Photographers: Beyond the Lens If you're a professional photographer, you already understand the joy of capturing significant moments for your clients. But think about the potential of extending that joy. Imagine presenting a beautifully framed print from a wedding shoot on the couple's first anniversary or a custom photo album to new parents chronicling the first year of their baby's life. These thoughtful gestures deepen the client-photographer relationship and often become treasured keepsakes that outlive the fleeting nature of digital photographs. For Photography Enthusiasts: Sharing Your World You don't have to be a professional to use photography as a medium for heartwarming gifts. If you love capturing the beauty around you, consider how those images can be shared as thoughtful gifts. A landscape shot from a memorable hike, a candid snapshot at a family reunion, or a perfect sunset at a favorite vacation spot can be more meaningful than any store-bought gift. It's about sharing a piece of your world and experiences with someone else in a tangible, lasting way. Notes written with ChatGPT 4

In this episode, Alastair and I dive into the nuanced world of Adobe Lightroom. We dissect the key differences between Lightroom Classic and Lightroom, formerly known as Lightroom Mobile. Delve into Adobe's possible strategic move towards phasing out Lightroom Classic in favor of its cloud-centric counterpart. We attempt to unravel the implications for photographers at all levels, from casual smartphone shooters to professional studio artists. We explore what this shift means for your workflow, data management, and the future of photo editing. http://www.adobe.com/lightroom

This week, I'm joined by Brian Matiash, a photo educator and marketing expert who has fully embraced Adobe Lightroom for his photographic endeavors. Brian discusses his transition, experiences, and the advanced techniques he utilizes in Lightroom. Don't miss his insights into photo editing and marketing strategies. Connect with Brian at: http://matiash.com A bit about Brian from his LinkedIn profile: "I’m an adaptive product marketer passionate about driving growth through tailored and multi-faceted marketing programs. With over 12 years of marketing experience (and over 20 years of professional experience), I thoroughly enjoy all aspects of marketing, from managing robust go-to-market campaigns to developing organic and paid content strategies to conducting comprehensive market research via user interviews and customer avatar creation. I’ve been very fortunate to build and lead several multinational marketing teams, and I am also as comfortable getting into the weeds with tactical tasks whenever needed. On a more personal note, I am an avid photo educator in my pastime, having spent over 15 years creating an extensive library of written and video content to help photo enthusiasts. My work has been published in numerous publications, and I've built several courses where students can improve their photography knowledge in a gamified environment." Brian Matiash

In this episode, Alastair Jolly and I sit down for an engaging interview with David Grover, a leading expert from Capture One. In this exclusive discussion, we dive deep into the latest features of Capture One software, including groundbreaking AI masking capabilities, unveiling their brand-new iPad app, and a revealing discussion about the software's renowned color precision in raw processing. Discover how Capture One continues to push the boundaries of image editing and color accuracy. Don't miss this insightful conversation that will provide valuable insights for photographers and image editors! DEMO https://youtu.be/dYgwGTya2Bg NOTICE! Capture One and SmugMug have joined forces to bring you an awesome holiday treat. Three months of Capture One Pro — absolutely free! Just head over to: http://www.thisweekinphoto.com/captureoneAND USE THE CODE "SMP3006A68" on checkout. Learn all about Capture One using their extensive and easy-to-consume tutorial library: https://support.captureone.com/hc/en-us/sections/8039132613405-Tutorials --- Check out our podcast at http://www.thisweekinphoto.com Join our community at http://join.thisweekinphoto.com