Dalton Johnson (@storiesbydalton) is a photographer, adventurer, and journalist who has collaborated with renowned brands such as Patagonia, Big Agnes, and Rivian.

In this episode, Dalton shares his own experiences in an effort to help photographers understand how they can leverage free work as a tool for growth, the importance of persistence in marketing their craft, and the cyclical process of building a thriving creative career. He breaks down actionable strategies for repeatedly turning passion projects into paid opportunities and shares insights into crafting effective pitches, balancing art with personal fulfillment, and creating work that connects deeply with both clients and audiences.

Expect to Learn:

• Why free work is a powerful tool to build a portfolio and create ROI
• The never ending cyclical process of having an idea, creating a body of work, and marketing it
• Why engaging with multiple companies daily, will lead to meaningful client relationships
• Practical methods to market creative projects
• Helpful tips on creating effective pitches

Dalton's links:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@storiesbydalton
Website: https://dalton-johnson.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daltonjohnsonmedia/

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! Explore the 18-300mm all-in-one zoom lens for Fujifilm and Sony APS-C Mirrorless cameras and soon for Nikon Z and Canon RF mounted cameras. Right now, enjoy $100 off on this lens! You can visit www.tamron-americas.com or your local Tamron authorized dealer.

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

Eric Bennett (@bennettfilm) is a nature photographer, artist, and storyteller who brings an intentional and deeply personal approach to his craft.

How does a photographer transform the ordinary into the extraordinary? What is the role of creativity in connecting more deeply with the world around us? Eric shares his philosophy on capturing meaningful images, the importance of slowing down and observing, and his thoughts on staying true to one’s artistic vision amidst external pressures. We also explore the balance between art and personal fulfillment, and why Eric never lets trends dictate his work.

Expect to Learn:

• How to train your eye to notice the extraordinary in the ordinary
• How releasing expectations can lead to more fulfilling experiences
• About myths like the “golden hour"
• How to avoid overcomplicating your art
• How to stay true to your creative vision

Eric's links:

Tutorial Videos: https://www.bennettfilm.com/Tutorials
Workshops: https://www.bennettfilm.com/WORKSHOPS
Brews n' Views Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@BrewsNViews

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! Explore the 18-300mm all-in-one zoom lens for Sony APS-C Mirrorless cameras and soon for Nikon Z and Canon RF mounted cameras. Right now, enjoy $100 off on this lens! You can visit www.tamron-americas.com or your local Tamron authorized dealer.

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

Justin Haugen (@photowarlock) is a commercial photographer, creative professional, and a father navigating the challenges of balancing career and family life.

What does it take to pivot from a flourishing wedding photography career to the dynamic world of commercial photography? How do you stay creatively fulfilled while facing the realities of parenthood and life’s unexpected changes? Justin’s story is one of evolution, resilience, and hitting refresh when life demands it.

Expect to Learn:

• How to transition as a professional from one photography genre to another
• How building better systems can transform your work-life balance
• The value of trusting a team and delegating to boost productivity
• Why community and connection are essential for a fulfilling creative career
• Why limited time can make you a more effective and focused professional

Justin's links:

Website - https://justinhaugen.com/about/
Facebook - http://facebook.com/justinphotos
HIgh ISO Podcast - https://spotify.com/pod/profile/highiso/

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! Explore the 18-300mm all-in-one zoom lens for Sony APS-C Mirrorless cameras and soon for Nikon Z and Canon RF mounted cameras. Right now, enjoy $100 off on this lens! You can visit www.tamron-americas.com or your local Tamron authorized dealer.

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

How can free gigs pave the way for a thriving creative career? We dissect the art of turning unpaid work into meaningful opportunities in this episode. From playing the long game and smartly building your portfolio to balancing effort in free projects and leveraging relationships, we break down how to make every opportunity count. This conversation is meant to be your guide to strategically navigating free work and setting yourself up for paid success. Learn how to give just enough, impress with intentionality, and solidify your creative path!

Expect to Learn:

• How to balance effort and deliverables in free projects
• Why showcasing relevant, high-quality work in your target niche is essential
• How to tap into your personal network to build a portfolio
• How to frame your work in terms of return on investment
• Actionable strategies for transitioning from unpaid gigs to paid work

Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

You can 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

How do you elevate your creative work when revisiting familiar places or projects? This episode explores how revisiting locations or concepts with fresh eyes can help refine your process and strengthen your portfolio. Aaron and Seth break down the value of intentional shooting, learning from past experiences, and finding balance between capturing the moment and simply enjoying it. From improving your approach to preparation to crafting those impactful “A+” results, this conversation is packed with insights to inspire growth in any creative field.

Expect to Learn:

• How returning to familiar places refines creativity and improves results
• Tips for prioritizing tasks under tight deadlines
• How to leverage connections for new projects
• How to structure planning to capture better shots
• Why focusing on quality over quantity will enhance your portfolio

Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

You can 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 we're joined by photographer and filmmaker Chris Burkard (@chrisburkard) as he shares his insights on storytelling, creative exploration, and balancing ambition with family life. Chris dives into the leap from dreaming to achieving, finding joy in the creative process, and building a meaningful legacy through connection with nature. He opens up about cultivating curiosity, overcoming impostor syndrome, and redefining success beyond metrics, while highlighting the importance of bold creative freedom and lasting impact.

Expect to Learn:

• How to turn "what if" moments into actionable plans and executed vision
• Why chasing joy, not perfection, makes you create your best work
• How to balance roles as a creative professional and devoted parent
• Why the most accessible and frequently gear trumps the latest technology
  
  

Chris's Website: https://www.chrisburkard.com/
Watch "The Forgotten Coast" Film: https://tv.apple.com/movie/the-forgotten-coast

Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

You can 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

Part two is here, and we’re bringing more reflections and lessons learned from our photography journeys. This time, we’re talking about the power of focusing on fewer, impactful goals, finding balance in your social media habits, and navigating the endless tug-of-war with perfectionism. With honest stories, practical advice, and relatable insights, this episode is packed with ideas to help you sharpen your focus and build a creative career on solid ground.

Expect to Learn:

• Why trying to do everything at once can dilute your efforts and hinder success
• How to let go of the need to overcomplicate or overdeliver
• How to recognize when you’re spreading yourself too thin
• How to build a foundation in the correct order to grow efficiently as a photographer

Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

You can 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

Everyone makes mistakes, but in this episode, we’re owning them and sharing the valuable lessons they brought us. From pouring too much energy into social media to regretfully underpricing creative work, skipping contracts, and being enticed by the exposure promises of predatory photography sharing platforms, we're breaking down what we got wrong in our photography journeys. We reflect on these missteps with personal stories, honest insights, and practical advice to help you avoid similar pitfalls. Whether you're navigating pricing, client agreements, or the balance between social media and creativity, this episode delivers key takeaways to propel your growth as a photographer or creative.

Expect to Learn:

• How to not let time spent on socials overshadow honing your craft
• How to avoid pricing yourself too low and feeling regretful
• Why you should always use clear contracts that outline everything
• How to avoid predatory apps and situations that promise exposure
• How to align your energy with your long term photography goals

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! Explore the 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 lens with $200 USD & $300 CAD off and deals on many more lenses during their for your Sony E-mount, Nikon Z, and FUJIFILM X-mount mirrorless cameras by clicking www.tamron-americas.com or by visiting your local Tamron authorized dealer. The Spring Savings event is on now until April 20th, 2025.

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

Support the show

Support the show