Camera Shake Photography Podcast

How do you keep finding original photographs in a place you know by heart? In episode 333 of the Camera Shake Podcast, Rachael Talibart joins Kersten Luts to explore seascape photography, imagination and the value of returning to familiar subjects.

Rachael shares how her Sirens series grew from storm waves into a cast of mythological characters, why she keeps photographs she cannot yet see a use for, and how she missed the laughing face in Loki for six months. We discuss leaving room for the viewer’s imagination, acknowledging influences, printing your work and recognising when a project ha...

He Shot Film That Expired in 1946 | Nick LoPresti

What happens when you try to make photographs on film that expired in 1946? In episode 332 of the Camera Shake Podcast, Nick LoPresti joins Kersten Luts for a conversation about curiosity, useful failure and making film photography fun again.

Nick explains why he experiments with old film, what he learns from testing and developing it, and how a familiar scene can become a new puzzle. We discuss shooting directly on photographic paper, developing at home and finding a scanning setup that suits the way you work.

...

How do individual street photographs become a project? In episode 331 of the Camera Shake Podcast, street photographer and educator Valérie Jardin joins Kersten Luts to explore the choices that turn a folder of images into a meaningful body of work.

Valérie explains how she recognises recurring themes, chooses photographs with instinct and sequences images into a book. Through projects about hands, local trades and centenarians, she shares how an idea can evolve when you meet the people at its heart.

We discuss working with a consistent focal length, finding projects close to...

Great photographs can open doors, but what keeps clients coming back? In episode 330 of the Camera Shake Podcast, commercial photographer and educator Joel Grimes joins Kersten Luts to explore photography business, reinvention, and building a career that lasts.

Drawing on decades of advertising and portrait photography, Joel explains why marketing matters, how personal projects can attract better clients, and why a successful style may need a different approach. We discuss finding your niche, developing a signature look, understanding art directors, and creating financial breathing room to experiment without desperation.

Joel also shares his thoughts on...

Peter Coulson returns to Camera Shake for a candid conversation about what makes portrait photography feel alive. He explains why directing a person goes beyond arranging a pose, and how movement, attention and the right words can help you capture genuine expression.

In episode 329, we explore reading facial cues, working with experienced models and everyday clients, and recognising the moment worth photographing. Peter shares why he avoids telling people to hold, how he uses video to encourage natural movement, and when showing someone a strong image can build their confidence.

We also discuss one...

What can you learn by stepping in front of your own camera? In Camera Shake episode 328, Kersten Luts talks with Mark Rodriguez about self-portrait photography, creative confidence and building images that tell a story.

Mark shares how he develops conceptual photography ideas through word prompts and mind mapping, then brings them to life with lighting, costumes, handmade props and Photoshop compositing. We explore why matching perspective, shadows and light direction matters, how he combines different frames, and when starting again is the best creative decision.

There’s practical photography advice on remote triggers, interval shooting, te...

How do you make wildlife photographs that feel like your own? In How to Make Your Wildlife Photos Stand Out | Steve Gettle, wildlife photographer Steve Gettle joins Kersten Luts on the Camera Shake Podcast to explore personal style, stronger images, and the realities of a creative career.

Drawing on 40 years of nature photography, Steve shares practical wildlife photography tips on anticipating animal behaviour, choosing backgrounds, working with light, and getting more right in camera. Discover why local subjects can offer exceptional opportunities, how switching between bird photography and macro photography can refresh your creativity, and why constructive...

What Portrait Photographers Should Never Retouch asks a question: when does improving an image become changing the person?

In this episode of The Camera Shake Photography Podcast, Kersten speaks with Lithuanian portrait photographer and RetouchLab founder Skaistė Gulbinaitė about natural portrait retouching, client confidence and creating photographs that still feel authentic.

Skaistė explains why many people dislike photographs of themselves, how phone cameras and beauty filters can distort self-image, and why trust begins long before Photoshop. She shares practical photography advice for directing nervous clients, maintaining flow during a portrait session and using posing, lighting and...

What does it take to survive — and succeed — as a professional photographer for more than four decades?

In this episode of The Camera Shake Photography Podcast, Kersten sits down with award-winning portrait photographer and educator Kirk Voclain to explore the lessons he's learned during 45+ years behind the camera.

Kirk shares how he photographed his first paid wedding at just 15, what shooting film taught him about patience and composition, and why photographers who refuse to adapt risk getting left behind when the industry changes.

We talk about portrait photography, connecting with clients, photography pricing, sell...

How do you become a photographer when you cannot picture images in your mind?

In “The Photographer Who Can’t Picture His Own Photos,” Kersten Luts speaks with fine-art travel photographer Nico Trinkhaus about aphantasia, visual memory and the stories behind his remarkable cityscape photography.

Nico explains why photographs act as an external memory, how early experiments with HDR photography shaped his style, and how a lightning strike over Berlin’s Alexanderplatz transformed his photography career. He also shares the story of Europe Rising, a long-term travel photography project created in response to Brexit and photogra...

Step inside Origin Studios with award-winning photographer Ian Boichat for a candid conversation about dog photography, creative studio work and building a sustainable photography business.

Ian reveals how he developed his distinctive painterly and colourful pet portraits, why patience matters more than speed, and how he reads canine behaviour to capture genuine character. We explore practical studio photography techniques, from preparing the lighting before a dog enters the set to photographing black fur, energetic puppies and multiple dogs together.

This episode also goes beyond camera gear. Ian explains why the client experience is part of...

AI changed photography. Are photographers still needed—or does the human behind the camera matter more than ever?

In this episode of Camera Shake, Kersten Luts welcomes back director, photographer and digital imaging specialist Micah Burke to take an honest look at the state of AI in photography. Four years after their first conversation, generative AI has moved from novelty to production tool, reshaping photo editing, retouching, compositing, graphic design and AI video.

Micah shares workflows using Adobe Photoshop, Firefly, Stable Diffusion and generative video, while revealing where AI saves time—and where it creates extr...

Are better cameras making photography worse? In this episode of the Camera Shake Photography Podcast, Kersten Luts sits down with technology broadcaster, consumer champion and Photography & Video Show Podcast host David McClelland to explore how modern camera technology is reshaping photography and videography.

From smartphones and computational photography to mirrorless cameras, compact point-and-shoots and hybrid photo-video workflows, David examines whether increasingly powerful tools are helping photographers become more creative—or simply making technically polished images easier to produce. The conversation also looks at why smartphones have transformed image-making, why camera manufacturers still struggle with connectivity, how so...

After 25 years of Photoshop, which skills still matter—and which are being replaced by artificial intelligence?

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, Kersten Luts sits down with PhotoshopCAFE founder Colin Smith for a wide-ranging conversation about Photoshop, photography, generative AI and the future of visual creativity. Colin explains why AI is an incredibly useful assistant, but still cannot replace taste, observation, judgement or a clear creative vision.

They explore how Photoshop has evolved from its earliest days, why layers transformed digital image editing, and how automated masking, Generative Fill and AI retouching are ch...

Jerry Ghionis: How to Pose Anyone is a practical, thought-provoking conversation about creating portrait photography that feels natural, flattering and genuinely meaningful.

World-renowned portrait and wedding photographer Jerry Ghionis joins Kersten Luts to explain why great posing begins long before a client steps in front of the camera. Jerry explores how trust, empathy and clear direction help nervous clients relax, and why photographers should build a pose carefully before using emotion to make it feel real.

You’ll learn Jerry’s five-step approach—light, location, pose, technique and emotion—along with actionable posing tips for faces, h...

In this episode of Camera Shake, Kersten Luts sits down with internationally renowned photographer, author and educator Vincent Versace for a deep conversation about why photography is not about taking pictures — it is about learning to see.

Vincent shares his thoughts on artificial intelligence, digital photography, natural light, lens choice, black and white, infrared photography, mirrorless cameras, Nikon glass and the creative discipline behind making images that actually mean something. From shooting more without losing intention, to using technology as a tool rather than a crutch, this interview explores what photographers can do to create work that fe...

What Kodachrome Taught Us About Photography is a conversation with photographer, writer, educator and former B&H Photography Podcast host Allan Weitz about his new book Kodachrome: How Two Guys Named Leo Changed Photography.

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, Allan joins Kersten to explore why Kodachrome became one of the most loved colour films in photography history. They discuss the unlikely story of the two young musicians behind its invention, the discipline required to shoot transparency film, the difference between Kodachrome and Ektachrome, and why photographers had to understand light long before histograms, autofocus...

What makes a portrait feel memorable when the location is ordinary, the light is difficult and your subject would rather be somewhere else? In this episode of The Camera Shake Photography Podcast, Kersten Luts speaks with acclaimed photojournalist, portrait photographer and educator Rick Friedman about creating honest, compelling portraits in the real world.

Rick shares practical portrait photography advice drawn from decades photographing presidents, artists, scientists and public figures. You’ll learn how preparation and research help subjects relax; how to find story in an environment; when to use available light, flash, reflectors and small portable lighting ki...

Has smartphone photography reached the point where dedicated cameras are becoming obsolete? Or is there still something special about picking up a mirrorless camera and creating photographs the traditional way?

In Episode 315 of The Camera Shake Podcast, I sit down with photographer, journalist and Photowalks TV creator Jefferson Graham to discuss one of the biggest questions facing photographers today.

We explore the rise of smartphone photography, computational photography, artificial intelligence, travel photography and how technology continues to reshape the photography industry. Jefferson shares decades of experience covering cameras and consumer technology, explaining why today's photographers...

Iceland is one of the most photographed countries in the world—but what's it really like behind the camera?

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, I sit down with landscape photographer Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove, who left Belgium to build an extraordinary photography career in Iceland. From photographing active volcanic eruptions and dramatic waterfalls to leading photography workshops across Iceland, Greenland and Antarctica, Jeroen shares what it's really like to photograph one of Earth's most spectacular landscapes.

We discuss landscape photography, drone photography, storytelling, photographing volcanoes safely, finding original compositions in po...

What does the future of photography actually look like? Will AI replace photographers? Are cameras becoming less important? And what skills will photographers need to succeed over the next decade?

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, Kersten Luts sits down with internationally renowned photographer, entrepreneur, educator, and ShutterFest founder Sal Cincotta for a fascinating discussion about the future of photography, photography business, personal branding, artificial intelligence, marketing, pricing, and creative entrepreneurship.

Drawing on nearly 20 years of experience building a successful photography business, Sal shares why so many photographers struggle to make money, the...

Join Kersten Luts on The Camera Shake Podcast as he sits down with photojournalist, writer, and filmmaker Ian Poh Jin Tze for a fascinating discussion about authenticity in modern photography.

In a world dominated by Instagram, AI-generated imagery, social media algorithms, and increasingly sophisticated editing tools, what does it mean for a photograph to be real? Drawing from years of international travel and documentary work, Ian shares his perspective on photojournalism, visual storytelling, image ethics, and the challenges facing photographers today.

We discuss the differences between photojournalism and social media photography, the rise of content...

What separates a technically good portrait from an image that genuinely connects with people?

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, Kersten Luts sits down with commercial photographer, educator, and author Jeff Rojas to explore the art and psychology behind powerful portrait photography. From lighting and posing to confidence, body language, and emotional connection, Jeff shares practical insights that every photographer can apply to their work.

The conversation dives into photographing men and women differently, directing non-models, building trust with clients, and creating portraits that feel authentic rather than forced. Jeff also discusses...

CreativeLive helped shape modern photography education—and now it’s back.

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, I sit down with renowned photographer and educator Mark Wallace to talk about the return of CreativeLive, what happened behind the scenes, and what this comeback means for photographers, videographers, and creative entrepreneurs.

We explore how online photography education has changed, whether YouTube has replaced structured learning, and why paid photography education may still have an important role in 2026. We also dive into AI, information overload, community-building, and what photographers actually need to focus on if they...

What was it really like when photography went digital?

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, I sit down with legendary photographer, educator, Photoshop Hall of Fame inductee, and Canon Explorer of Light Eddie Tapp to explore one of the most fascinating transformations in photography history.

From darkrooms and film photography to Photoshop, digital workflow, colour management, printmaking, drones, and now AI, Eddie has lived through—and helped shape—some of the most pivotal moments in professional photography.

We talk about:

📸 how digital photography changed the industry

📸 the early...

What actually makes a wildlife photograph stand out? Is it the light, the emotion, the storytelling… or something else entirely? And perhaps the even bigger question — can wildlife photography actually become a sustainable career in today’s creative industry?

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, Kersten Luts sits down with award-winning wildlife and travel photographer Bella Falk to explore the art and business of wildlife photography. Bella shares insights into visual storytelling, emotional connection, documentary filmmaking, travel photography, conservation, and the realities of building a photography career in a competitive digital world.

From captur...

What does it really take to succeed as a photographer in 2026?

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, I’m joined by commercial photographer and brand strategist James Patrick to unpack a hard truth—being a great photographer is no longer enough to build a successful photography business.

We dive into the realities of modern photography, from marketing and personal branding to the impact of social media and information overload. James shares his perspective on imposter syndrome and why it might actually be a sign that you’re growing, not failing.

If you’ve...

In this episode, I take you behind the scenes at NAB Las Vegas to explore the latest innovations in photography, videography, and content creation.

From Nikon’s new cinema-focused cameras and upgraded lenses to cutting-edge 360 capture and immersive drone technology, I speak directly with exhibitors to uncover what’s new—and what actually matters for creators. We look at how brands are pushing into video, making it easier than ever for photographers to transition into filmmaking.

You’ll see everything from compact cinema cameras with RED colour science to 8K 360 drones and next-generation creator tools designed...

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, we explore one of the biggest questions in photography today—can images really make a difference in the real world?

I’m joined by wildlife photographer and conservationist Margot Raggett, founder of the Remembering Wildlife series, which has raised over £1.25 million for conservation projects around the globe. Margot shares how a single moment on safari changed the course of her career, and how she turned photography into a powerful tool for impact.

We dive into wildlife photography, storytelling, and the role photographers can play in conservation. This conve...

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, I sit down with photographer and Canon ambassador Clive Booth to explore how to create cinematic portraits using simple lighting setups.

If you’ve ever wondered how to achieve that film-style look without complicated gear, this conversation breaks it down into practical, real-world techniques you can start using immediately. We talk about lighting for portraits, shaping light for mood, and why understanding shadow is just as important as the light itself.

Clive shares his approach to minimal lighting—often using just one light—to create powerful, story-driven images...

If you’re a photographer wondering whether video editing is now part of the job, this episode is for you. In this conversation, Kersten Luts is joined by video editor Bayleigh Dilloway to break down why photographers need video skills in 2026, and how learning the basics of video editing can help grow a photography business.

We talk about social media marketing for photographers, creating reels, shorts and behind the scenes content, using video to attract clients, and why customer expectations are changing for portrait photographers, wedding photographers, commercial photographers and content creators. Bayleigh also walks through beginner vi...

What does it actually take to succeed as a portrait photographer today?

In this episode of the Camera Shake Podcast, I sit down with Nashville-based portrait photographer Jeff Carpenter to explore his journey from picking up a camera to building a full-time career in photography. We dive into what it really means to make it in a competitive creative industry — from finding your niche and working with clients, to developing a style and building a reputation that lasts.

Jeff shares his experience working with musicians, entrepreneurs, and professionals, and explains why lighting, client experience, and co...

In this episode, I take you onto the show floor to chat with photographers, educators, and industry experts about what’s really happening in photography and videography right now. From the latest camera gear and lighting techniques to creative trends and business insights, this is a snapshot of where the industry is heading in 2026.

One thing becomes clear very quickly—photography is evolving fast, but it’s also more accessible and more collaborative than ever before. With live demos, educational talks, and a strong presence of new and emerging photographers, the future of photography looks incredibly exciting.

I...

Branding photography is one of the fastest-growing niches in the photography industry — but why are businesses suddenly investing in large libraries of images instead of a single headshot?

In this episode of the Camera Shake Podcast, host Kersten Luts sits down with branding photographer and business strategist Miranda Kelton to explore the rise of personal branding photography and what it means for photographers today.

Miranda explains how modern businesses rely on visual storytelling across websites, social media, marketing campaigns, and advertising. A single portrait is no longer enough — companies now need dozens of images that comm...

Behind the scenes of filming a Kickstarter campaign on location in Ireland.

Join the Camera Shake Podcast as we explore photography, filmmaking, and the creative process behind a real product launch shoot.

Featuring wedding photographer Cathy Weatherston and filmmaker Bayleigh Dilloway.

In this special episode of the Camera Shake Podcast, we take you behind the scenes of filming a Kickstarter campaign while on location in Ireland.

Joining me are wedding photographer Cathy Weatherston and filmmaker/editor Bayleigh Dilloway, who were both part of the small creative team producing this product...

Why do some portrait photographs feel deeply human — while others, even with perfect lighting and sharp focus, feel empty?

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, I sit down with portrait photographer and educator Jonny Edward to explore the psychology behind powerful portrait photography. We go beyond camera settings, lighting techniques, and posing tips, and dive into authenticity, emotional connection, trust, and vulnerability in front of the lens.

Jonny shares how his early life shaped his approach to photography and how building genuine human connection transforms a portrait session. We discuss directing versus manipulating em...

Lighting is important — but it’s not what makes a portrait feel natural, confident, or authentic.

In this episode of the Camera Shake Podcast, NYC headshot photographer Pete Coco joins Kersten Luts to explore the psychology behind portrait photography. From directing natural expressions to building trust with clients, Pete explains why connection matters more than gear, camera settings, or studio lighting setups.

If you’re a portrait photographer, headshot photographer, or someone starting a photography business, this episode dives into practical strategies for working with real people in front of the lens. You’ll learn how to h...

New York City has been photographed millions of times — so how do you create something original in a place everyone thinks they’ve already seen?

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, NYC fine art photographer Michael Tischler shares his approach to city photography, long-term creative commitment, and developing a deep visual relationship with one location. We talk about slowing down, revisiting the same streets, responding to light and mood, and building a recognisable body of work instead of chasing trends.

Michael also discusses his transition from dentistry into professional photography and how discipline, pati...

What do you do when the light refuses to cooperate? In this episode of the Camera Shake Podcast, Kersten is joined by concert photographer Steve Brazil to explore how photographers can create powerful, emotional images in the most challenging low-light conditions.

Drawing on years of experience shooting live music, Steve shares how working in unpredictable and often terrible lighting environments sharpens creative instincts, forces faster decision-making, and shifts the focus from technical perfection to emotional impact. The conversation covers low light photography, anticipation, motion blur, embracing imperfection, and why bad lighting can actually make you a stronger...

In this episode of the Camera Shake Podcast, I’m joined by maternity and newborn photographer Ashley Lowder to break down what truly makes a successful newborn photography session—beyond just lighting and posing.

We explore how to create a calm, supportive client experience, build trust quickly with new parents, and guide maternity clients who may feel awkward or vulnerable in front of the camera. Ashley shares her real-world newborn workflow, safety-first approach, and how she keeps sessions flowing smoothly even when things don’t go to plan.

This conversation also dives into the photography busine...