In The MOOD Podcast, Matt Jacob, renowned cultural portrait photographer, dives deep into the world of photography and the visual arts, with guests from all aro...
Why I QUIT Photography - and Came Back STRONGER! - Cam Vaughne, EO86
“What are you passionate about outside of photography?”Two years after appearing as the first-ever guest on The MOOD Podcast, cultural photographer Cam Vaughne returns for a full-circle conversation that’s both deeply personal and universally relevant. Known for his culturally sensitive storytelling and ability to capture the essence of life in Bali and beyond, Cam has undergone significant transformation—both creatively and personally—since his first appearance. Cam opens up about how trauma, community, and a return to simplicity reshaped his photography. What follows is an honest, raw, and inspiring conversation about using your lens to document change—both in the world and in yourself.In this episode, we discuss:How personal hardship can reconnect you with your creative rootsWhy returning to shooting “just for fun” can reignite your passionThe impact of over-tourism and construction on local culture The power of community and storytelling in healing and rediscoveryFinding your unique voice by following what interests you outside of photographyWhy it’s okay to step away from social media—and how to grow without itLetting go of perfection: why raw moments trump curated shotsThe importance of staying true to your art and ignoring the noiseFind Cam Vaughne's work on his channels:Instagram: @camvaughne__________________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
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1:05:11
The Biggest Lie in Photography Education: Joe Edelman, EO85
Is photography education today more about selling than actually teaching? Are we losing the art of problem-solving in the pursuit of easy answers?Joe Edelman, an award-winning photographer, educator, and mentor, has spent over six decades shaping the industry. From his early days as a newspaper photojournalist to pioneering creative fashion and portrait photography, Joe’s passion lies in helping photographers master not just the technical, but the artistic and emotional depths of photography.What we discussed:The biggest lie in photography education todayWhy photographers should focus on the why before the howHow social media has fueled a “banger mentality” that kills creativityThe real difference between amateur and professional photographersWhy AI and technology won’t replace great photographers—but bad onesThe truth about photography rules (and why most should be ignored)How to develop a photography career in today’s saturated marketWhy “Don’t be afraid to suck” is the best advice for any photographerThe role of mentorship and why great photographers don’t always make great teachersWhat Joe would do if he were starting his career todayFind Joe Edelman's work on his channels:Website: www.joeedelman.comInstagram: @joeedelmanYou Tube: @theJoeEdelman_________________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
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1:32:05
From Avedon’s Shadow to Four Decades of Immortal Frames - Richard Corman, EO84
Richard Corman has spent over four decades photographing some of the most iconic figures in history, from Madonna and Nelson Mandela to Philip Seymour Hoffman and Muhammad Ali. Trained under the legendary Richard Avedon, his portraits are known for their raw emotion, authenticity, and storytelling depth. In this episode, we learn about Richard's extraordinary journey, exploring how he connects with his subjects and captures moments that stand the test of time.What we discussed:The importance of curiosity and human connection in portrait photography.Richard’s early career and how photography ‘found’ him.Lessons from apprenticing with Richard Avedon.The evolution of photography from analog to digital and its impact on creativityBehind-the-scenes stories of photographing Madonna, Basquiat, Muhammad Ali, and more.The difference between ‘good’ and ‘great’ photography.The experience of capturing Nelson Mandela in his prison cell.Transitioning from commerical photography to the fine art world. Why mentorship and apprenticeship are crucial in today’s photography industry.Advice for aspiring photographers on developing a unique style and career longevity.His ongoing documentary project on transgender individuals in the military. Find Richard Cormon's work on his channels:Website: www.richardcorman.comInstagram: @richardcorman_____________________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
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1:21:38
Can Filmmaking Change Lives? Exploring Indi Casa's Moving Journey, EO83
"Life leaves marks etched within us" - how do we turn those marks into purpose? Indi Casa is a filmmaker and photographer whose work bridges the gap between visual storytelling and commercial videography. His upcoming documentary, Indyquay, is an unfiltered exploration of his personal journey—retracing his past, seeking his roots, and capturing the raw essence of human connection. Through stunning cinematography and immersive storytelling, Indy documents his search for family, identity, and meaning.In this episode, we discuss:Indi's transition from commercial filmmaking to a documentary storytelling.Challenges in documentary filming. Navigating the ethical responsibilities of filmmaking.The challenges of telling deeply personal stories in extreme environments.Insights into editing and structure of a documentary How to approach storytelling in commercial work versus documentaries.Thoughts on the importance of sharing one’s story.Find Indi Casa's work on his channels:Website: www.indi-casa.comInstagram: @indi_casaYou Tube: @indicasa9502_____________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
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1:12:15
The Dark Truth of Documenting Humanity: Natalie Keyssar, EO82
When you witness war up close, do you still believe in humanity?Natalie Keyssar is a Brooklyn-based documentary photographer whose work delves into the personal impact of political turmoil, conflict, and migration.With a background in painting and illustration, her perspective has led her to cover some of the most pressing global issues, from Venezuela to Ukraine. Her award-winning photography has been published in The New York Times Magazine, National Geographic, and TIME. The conversation focuses on the ethical responsibilities of photographers, the nuances of storytelling, and the balance between aesthetics and ethics. In this conversation:Examination of empathy as a core principle in photography. Importance of ethical responsibilities in photojournalism.Why photojournalists aren't neutral observers and the importance of accountability.How mainstream media and capitalism shape what stories get told.Insight into her unique approach to capturing human experiences. The balance between aesthetics and ethics in storytelling.Her latest project with the UFC and the intersection of sport, politics, and masculinity.The transition from photography to filmmaking.Find Natalie Keyssar's work on her channels:Website: www.nataliekeyssar.comInstagram: @nataliekeyssar____________________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co
In The MOOD Podcast, Matt Jacob, renowned cultural portrait photographer, dives deep into the world of photography and the visual arts, with guests from all around the creative industry, across all parts of the globe, sharing inspiring stories and experiences that will leave you wanting more. With years of experience and a passion for storytelling, Matt has become a master of capturing lesser-told human stories through his photography, and teams up with other special artists from around the world to showcase insights, experiences and opinions within the diverse and sometimes controversial photography world. You can watch these podcasts on his Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay.You can also follow Matt's work on his Instagram @mattyj_ay and his website: https://mattjacobphotography.com.
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