Photo-Op - Pod.casts

Plugins for Photographers

January 18, 2021 15:00 - 37 minutes - 34.6 MB

Want to know how to get better results in less time? This episode is all about plugins, presets, and filters that make your life easier. Topaz Labs: https://topazlabs.com/ Luminar: https://skylum.com/luminar Nik Software (Official): https://nikcollection.dxo.com/ Old Nik Software (Google no longer offers it, but it is still available at the following link. We at Photo-Op do not vouch for this link, but it is free.): https://www.techspot.com/downloads/6809-google-nik-collection.html Imag...

Is Adobe worth it? (Yes)

January 11, 2021 15:00 - 36 minutes - 34 MB

Is Adobe worth it? (Spoiler: yes.) But let's look at some alternatives anyway. Maybe it's too expensive. Maybe you're not a fan. Maybe you don't want to pay monthly subscription fees. Here are some software alternatives to Photoshop, Illustrator, Lightroom, and Premiere. Do you want to help keep the mics on? Consider becoming a patron on Patreon using the the Tip Jar. https://www.patreon.com/NOMcreative Software recommended in this episode: Affinity: https://affinity.serif.com/en-us/ Cor...

New camera, now what?

January 04, 2021 15:00 - 30 minutes - 28.3 MB

You got a new camera. Cool. Now what? Whether this is your first camera or your fifth, we talk about the first things you should do when you get a new member of your camera family, and how you can make the best use of it. Overcoming photographer's block: https://shows.acast.com/photo-op/episodes/018-overcoming-photographers-block Exposure Triangle: https://youtu.be/Zf-JKpY2cok 18:50 to skip to Tips for Advanced Shooters Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show hel...

Hindsight's 2020

December 15, 2020 06:29 - 24 minutes - 22.2 MB

We look back on the bizarre year that has been 2020, sharing both most popular and personal favorite episodes, cool projects, and exciting plans for 2021! Thanks again to all of our listeners for joining us this year. Top mistakes photographers make: https://shows.acast.com/photo-op/03-top-mistakes-new-photographers-make Things you probably don't have but should: https://shows.acast.com/photo-op/05-things-you-dont-have How to build a photgoraphy website: https://shows.acast.com/photo-o...

Remote Shooting

December 07, 2020 15:00 - 36 minutes - 33.9 MB

In the penultimate episode of 2020, we discuss the unfortunate reality that is remote shooting. But is it truly just taking a selfie with an art director, or are creativity and good results possible? Walk with us through setup, the day of the shoot, and celebrating your output after delivery. Thanks also to Joshua for our listener question this week! How to shoot high-res remote portraits https://timdunk.com/how-to-shoot-portraits-through-facetime Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlant...

Holiday Gift Guide 2020

November 29, 2020 13:00 - 50 minutes - 46.3 MB

Time to get shopping! Take a look at our gift recommendations, and if you need someone to get you a gift, send them this episode! We break down all of the best deals, gear, and accessories for photographers this holiday season. 0:00 Intro 3:35 Stocking Stuffers 10:25 Computer Accessories 28:54 Camera Accessories 35:35 Cameras Trigger Accessories https://www.miops.com/ 5 in 1 Reflectors by Neewer Gaff Tape, 1" and 2" Electrical Tape Hack Good/comfortable keyboard and mouse LG MX M...

Bonus Q&A: Grey Cameras, Untrustworthy Lenses, and Pandemic Studios

November 25, 2020 15:00 - 12 minutes - 11.5 MB

Bonus episode! We tackle listener questions yet again, this time discussing grey market cameras, lenses you can't trust, finding studio space during a pandemic, and DIY v-flats. Thanks again for sending in your questions, and as always send us more to [email protected]! Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Don't buy this Camera Gear

November 23, 2020 15:00 - 34 minutes - 31.3 MB

As we enter the holiday season, you probably have your eye on a lot of photo gear, either for yourself or as gifts for photographers in your life. In this episode we break down all the gear that isn't worth your hard-earned cash. Catch the next episode for all the things you should buy instead in our Holiday Gift Guide! Memory Card Testing Software: https://h2testw.en.lo4d.com/windows Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. Se...

Weird Cameras

November 16, 2020 15:00 - 18 minutes - 17.4 MB

Two new weird cameras are hitting the market, so let's talk about them! Cameras mentioned: Canon PowerShot ZOOM: https://www.usa.canon.com/internet/portal/us/home/products/details/binoculars/monocular/powershot-zoom-compact-telephoto-monocular/ Zeiss ZX1: https://www.zeiss.com/consumer-products/us/photography/zx1.html Lytro: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lytro Light L16: https://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/light-l16/light-l16A.HTM DxO One: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DxO_ONE ...

Don't back Kickstarters (Mostly)

November 09, 2020 15:00 - 35 minutes - 33 MB

Kickstarter campaigns can be contentious, scammy, money grabs. But they can also be wonderful ways for creators to share their art and ideas with the world. We talk about the do's and don'ts for Kickstarter, including red flags to watch out for. This episode is great for anyone browsing campaigns to find cool new stuff or support local artists, as well as anyone thinking about launching their own campaign. Episode mentioned: https://shows.acast.com/photo-op/episodes/019-how-to-not-be-a-gwc ...

Art in (Ka)poor taste

November 02, 2020 15:00 - 24 minutes - 22.2 MB

Behold the legend of Stuart Semple vs Anish Kapoor. Kick back for story time about the most amazing (and petty) fight in modern art history. Stuart Semple: http://stuartsemple.com Buy his art supplies: https://www.culturehustleusa.com Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Does sensor size matter?

October 26, 2020 14:00 - 24 minutes - 22.7 MB

How much does sensor size matter? We talk about all different sensor sizes, including micro 4/3, APS-C, and full frame, and talk about the differences between them. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unsplash photo used in 'Crass' UK ad

October 19, 2020 13:00 - 30 minutes - 28.3 MB

In our first news-reaction episode, we discuss an event that happened with a photographer having their photos used without their permission for a 'crass' advertisement. But was it really used without permission? We talk everything you need to know about stock photography. Original Article: https://petapixel.com/2020/10/16/photographer-devastated-after-her-unsplash-photo-was-used-in-crass-uk-ad-campaign Unsplash License: https://unsplash.com/license Zack Arias talks Unsplash: https://www.y...

Planning out a New Studio

October 12, 2020 14:00 - 32 minutes - 29.7 MB

Ben is working on setting up a new studio, so we chat about the design layout and the decisions you need to make when you're making a new space. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When should a Photo be BW

October 05, 2020 14:00 - 18 minutes - 16.8 MB

Should any photos ever be black and white? What makes it better than color? We talk about the clichés and pitfalls of creating black and white photos. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Separating Art from the Artist

September 28, 2020 14:15 - 28 minutes - 26 MB

The artist you like said/did something bad! What now? Is it okay to continue enjoying their art, or will their work be forever tainted and something you can no longer support? IWe share our experiences in separating the art from the artist. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tips for Landscape Photography

September 21, 2020 15:51 - 34 minutes - 32.1 MB

Ben is back from a big trip to Yellowstone National Park, so we chat about gear, composition tips, and philosophies to get the best landscape shots. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why we Love and Hate technology

September 14, 2020 14:00 - 20 minutes - 19.3 MB

Do you love technology? It can objectively do amazing things, but it also fails when you most need it. This week, we have a short discussion on why we love and hate technology, and what you can do about it. Leave a comment with your story of tech failure! -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBtR6jk9JnQ Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our Favorite Camera Gear

September 07, 2020 14:00 - 29 minutes - 27.3 MB

This week we discuss some of our favorite stuff! All the best camera gear and accessories. No sponsors, just our personal recommendations. Related Episodes: Things you probably don't have (but should) What Lens should I buy? Gear we mention: Blind Spot NP-F Battery Charger https://www.amazon.com/Power-Junkie-NP-F-Blind-Spot/dp/B07NF14XW4 Color Checker https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1464532-REG/x_rite_msccpp_b_colorchecker_passport_photo_2.html Color Checker Holder https://w...

How to NOT be a G.W.C.

August 31, 2020 14:00 - 37 minutes - 34.7 MB

G.W.C,, or "Guy with Camera". We talk about creeps, and how you can avoid being one. Special thanks to all the listeners that submitted sound clips for this episode. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Location Scouting (from a Hobbit Hole!)

August 17, 2020 14:15 - 5 minutes - 4.87 MB

Here are some tips for location scouting! Ben is on location at a hobbit hole, and will be returning with new content on Aug 31st. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes (although not for this episode) https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Overcoming Photographers Block

August 10, 2020 14:00 - 41 minutes - 38.3 MB

Why do you get creatively stuck as a photographer and what can you do about it? Tips and challenges to get over the slump. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Lens should I buy?

August 03, 2020 14:00 - 47 minutes - 43.5 MB

"What lens should I buy?" is kind of like asking "what car should I buy?" Do you need something eco-friendly for grocery trips or hauling a trailer through rough terrain? We break down 10 genres of photography and give our recommendations for the best lens you should buy. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Imposter Syndrome

July 27, 2020 14:00 - 54 minutes - 49.9 MB

If you think you aren't good enough and people are going to call you out on it, you might suffer from Imposter Syndrome. We go over the research of Dr. Valerie Young on the five different types of Imposter Syndrome, and share our own stories about when it has affected us, and tips for helping get through it. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When can you charge money?

July 20, 2020 21:33 - 29 minutes - 27.2 MB

When are you good enough to charge money in photography? If you're a hobbyist, you might not feel comfortable charging, or you might be wondering if you've "made it". We break down when and what you should be charging when you're starting out. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why is photography expensive?

July 13, 2020 14:00 - 38 minutes - 35.8 MB

In part one of this episode we break down all of the costs it takes to run a photography business, and show why exactly this thing is so expensive, besides the $40,000 of gear you own. In part two, we go over why telling that to your client is a terrible idea, and what you can tell them instead when they ask, "why is photography so expensive?" ASMP Calculator Walkthrough: https://photography.tutsplus.com/articles/is-your-photo-practice-ready-to-grow-find-your-cost-of-doing-business--cms-232...

Should you work for free?

July 06, 2020 14:00 - 33 minutes - 31.2 MB

"If you do this for me for free, then I'll send you more work in the future." Spoiler: they won't. In this episode, we go over the different kinds of working for free, which ones are beneficial, and which ones you should avoid at all costs. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should you go to school for photography?

June 29, 2020 14:00 - 36 minutes - 33.1 MB

Education is important, but does a photography degree give the returns that justify the cost? Is it worth it? Does anyone care? We go over the pros and cons of going to school for photography, and suggest some alternatives to help jump-start your career. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Best (and worst!) social media platforms

June 23, 2020 17:26 - 31 minutes - 29.2 MB

You're a photographer and you want to spread your brand and business on social media. It's a full time job to be on all of them, so which do you target for best results? We discuss all notable social media (and social media adjacent) platforms to help you focus your efforts and get leads. You MUST build your own website no matter what social media you're on and you can find out how to do so in episode two of Photo-Op. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show hello@p...

How to Collaborate with Others

June 15, 2020 18:06 - 31 minutes - 28.8 MB

What's the best way to network and collaborate with other online content creators? We talk about communication, your personal image, targeting strategies, audiences, "making it easy to say yes", and more in our response to this listener question. Check out Galactic Pinups: http://galacticpinups.com/ Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Avoiding G.A.S.

June 08, 2020 14:00 - 21 minutes - 20 MB

Do you suffer from G.A.S.? (Gear Acquisition Syndrome: otherwise known as always buying stuff you don't need.) We talk about running a business in the black and how to stop yourself from buy the new shiny thing so you can use that hard earned cash elsewhere. Watch the VEEP clip we mention: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paJqHPHLExo Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fad or Feature?

June 01, 2020 14:00 - 37 minutes - 34 MB

In this user submitted episode, we discuss a variety of techniques and effects and break down which ones are flash in the pan fads that should go away, and which are actual features and tools that you can use to make your photos better. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our First Q&A: Lightning Round

May 25, 2020 14:00 - 44 minutes - 41.2 MB

It's our very first Q&A! We answer your questions. Everything from shooting in low light, shooting vintage airplanes, to our thoughts on logos, watermarks, and some of our favorite plugins. If you have a question and want to be in a future episode, be sure to shoot us an email: [email protected] Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How many Megapixels do you need?

May 18, 2020 14:00 - 14 minutes - 13.8 MB

The megapixel race is strong. Modern cellphones have more pixels shoved into them than my first camera, or even my current one. How many pixels do you REALLY need? We go into everything you need to know about image size in this episode. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Things you probably don't have (but should)

May 11, 2020 14:00 - 27 minutes - 25.2 MB

What are things that you (probably) don't have, but definitely should? We cover it. We're putting an online clickbait-filled list-icle to shame, and giving you the best advice podcast money can buy. (#notsponsored) Links mentioned in this episode: What's in my camera bag? (Video) Small rain protector Large rain protector Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

RAW is Overrated?

May 04, 2020 14:00 - 20 minutes - 18.5 MB

The advice generally goes that you should only ever shoot in RAW. But are there times you should shoot JPG? What's the difference? This episode, we cover all of your questions about the difference in these image formats, and when you should use RAW vs JPG. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Top mistakes new Photographers make

April 27, 2020 14:00 - 41 minutes - 37.9 MB

When you're just starting out as a photographer, you're going to make mistakes. Like anything, there is a learning curve. But we can make that curve a lot shorter with these 15 tips and tricks, mistakes and pitfalls you should avoid. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to build a Photography website

April 20, 2020 17:08 - 43 minutes - 39.9 MB

If you're a photographer, you need a website. We cover hosting, portfolio design, what pages you should have, how to design a portfolio, and things you're probably doing wrong. If you already have a web host, feel free to skip to 6:46 Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you delete photos?

April 20, 2020 16:50 - 38 minutes - 35.7 MB

Do you delete photos? When and how do you decide? And if you keep stuff, how do you stay organized? We go over our thoughts, and tips and tricks for keeping your photos safe. Stuart's hard drive shucking video Ben's storage and backup video Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New? Start Here

April 20, 2020 15:48 - 9 minutes - 8.51 MB

What is this podcast about? Who are we to give opinions? Listen and find out! Ben and Stuart introduce themselves and the show in this "episode 0" of Photo-Op. Hosted by Ben Lucas and Stuart Marlantes https://photo-op.show [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.