Pick up any book on business in your local bookstore, and it will almost certainly talk about processes. Yawn.  But what if we thought about processes as good habits? The things you do every day that you don't need to think about. As a business, you need good processes: doing the right things, at the right time in the right way is the foundation of any successful studio. And besides, it gives you more time to do the things you love! Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

Pick up any book on business in your local bookstore, and it will almost certainly talk about processes. Yawn.  But what if we thought about processes as good habits? The things you do every day that you don't need to think about. As a business, you need good processes: doing the right things, at the right time in the right way is the foundation of any successful studio. And besides, it gives you more time to do the things you love! Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP137 Habit Hackers: Supercharging Your Studio with Good Habits

Peter Aldington OBE, world-renowned architect and garden designer, with his wife Margaret - whose energy and partnership have been as fundamental to his success as any other creative's, though she professes to not being a designer of any kind. I have wanted to record this interview for a long time. Peter is a world-renowned architect, having achieved no less than 9 (yes, you're reading that correctly, 9) listed buildings in his lifetime. Each of the nine houses he designed while working as an architect, along with the garden that he created in the eighties, is listed (aka protected) by English Heritage.   Some record.  He's also a charming guy. We have based our photography business in the original studio where he began his architectural practice, Aldington, Craig and Collinge, a building we have completely fallen in love with in the past 11 years. As you can imagine, I wanted to record an interview with him; in particular, I wanted to ask him about creativity and how he turned his influences into something tangible. Sometimes, however, the more exciting topics creep in as you talk, which was the case during this interview. Sitting with Peter and his wife Margaret, it quickly became apparent that the more important questions were about relationships: relationships with colleagues, clients and, of course (and you'll hear this throughout the interview), the relationship between Peter and Margaret and their family. It's funny how you can plan all you like, but ultimately, life (and creativity) have a way of taking you on unexpected journeys. But for me, well, I think it is a lovely interview with an architect who has made an immeasurable contribution to architecture and garden design. Usually, I would ask Peter and Margaret for their book choice, but I have chosen two that feature Peter's work for this episode. The first is A Garden and Three Houses: The Story of Architect Peter Aldington's Garden and Three Village Houses by Jane Brown. The second is Houses: Created by Peter Aldington, a beautiful book choc full of stunning line drawings (and if you know anything about me, you'll know just how much I adore exceptional illustrations!) Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

Peter Aldington OBE, world-renowned architect and garden designer, with his wife Margaret - whose energy and partnership have been as fundamental to his success as any other creative's, though she professes to not being a designer of any kind. I have wanted to record this interview for a long time. Peter is a world-renowned architect, having achieved no less than 9 (yes, you're reading that correctly, 9) listed buildings in his lifetime. Each of the nine houses he designed while working as an architect, along with the garden that he created in the eighties, is listed (aka protected) by English Heritage.   Some record.  He's also a charming guy. We have based our photography business in the original studio where he began his architectural practice, Aldington, Craig and Collinge, a building we have completely fallen in love with in the past 11 years. As you can imagine, I wanted to record an interview with him; in particular, I wanted to ask him about creativity and how he turned his influences into something tangible. Sometimes, however, the more exciting topics creep in as you talk, which was the case during this interview. Sitting with Peter and his wife Margaret, it quickly became apparent that the more important questions were about relationships: relationships with colleagues, clients and, of course (and you'll hear this throughout the interview), the relationship between Peter and Margaret and their family. It's funny how you can plan all you like, but ultimately, life (and creativity) have a way of taking you on unexpected journeys. But for me, well, I think it is a lovely interview with an architect who has made an immeasurable contribution to architecture and garden design. Usually, I would ask Peter and Margaret for their book choice, but I have chosen two that feature Peter's work for this episode. The first is <a href="https://amzn.eu/d/3uDYIlj" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A Garden and Three Houses: The Story of Architect Peter Aldington's Garden and Three Village Houses</a> by Jane Brown. The second is <a href="https://amzn.eu/d/5Zy52zG" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Houses: Created by Peter Aldington</a>, a beautiful book choc full of stunning line drawings (and if you know anything about me, you'll know just how much I adore exceptional illustrations!) Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP136 Interview With Margaret And Peter Aldington OBE | On Creativity And Relationships

Well, this weekend has two big events: Mother's Day and the Societies Of Photographers Annual Convention In London.   Sadly I wasn't able to make the Convention this year - though I was there in spirit!  That didn't stop me entering the print competition though.  I didn't come away with any gongs this year and that always stings just a little.  Somehow, I have to convert the feeling of missing out on a fantastic convention with photographers who I love to spend time with (FOMO anyone?) and also not getting the scores I would have loved for my entries. It's all part of the puzzle when it comes to entering photographic competitions. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

Well, this weekend has two big events: Mother's Day and the Societies Of Photographers Annual Convention In London.   Sadly I wasn't able to make the Convention this year - though I was there in spirit!  That didn't stop me entering the print competition though.  I didn't come away with any gongs this year and that always stings just a little.  Somehow, I have to convert the feeling of missing out on a fantastic convention with photographers who I love to spend time with (FOMO anyone?) and also not getting the scores I would have loved for my entries. It's all part of the puzzle when it comes to entering photographic competitions. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP135 Winning (Or Not) And Finding Positives - Whatever The Outcome

Photographers are supremely visual, right?  Of course.  But have you ever wondered about the power of words?  Two words, in particular, can have a bigger impact than any image ever can (and I am speaking as someone whose entire life is living and breathing pictures).  The words? "Thank You".  These two words, when given or received, can bring a huge amount of joy.  Trust me. In the podcast, I mention the dates of our upcoming workshops: 6th March, Mastering Essential Studio Lighting 20th March, Mastering Available Light 3rd April, Mastering Headshot Photography 17th April, Mastering Your Creative Workflow From Shutter To Print 15th May, Mastering Advanced Studio Lighting 5th June, Mastering Available Light On Location In Oxford  These can all be found on our website. Every workshop is limited to six delegates so we can fine-tune the content for the attendees.  They're an absolute blast! If you're a portrait photographer, whether a pro or looking to break into the industry, these workshops are perfect for you.  We also provide a delicious lunch!  Never underestimate the need for good food! haha. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

Photographers are supremely visual, right?  Of course.  But have you ever wondered about the power of words?  Two words, in particular, can have a bigger impact than any image ever can (and I am speaking as someone whose entire life is living and breathing pictures).  The words? "Thank You".  These two words, when given or received, can bring a huge amount of joy.  Trust me. In the podcast, I mention the dates of our upcoming workshops: <ul><li>6th March, Mastering Essential Studio Lighting</li> <li>20th March, Mastering Available Light</li> <li>3rd April, Mastering Headshot Photography</li> <li>17th April, Mastering Your Creative Workflow From Shutter To Print</li> <li>15th May, Mastering Advanced Studio Lighting</li> <li>5th June, Mastering Available Light On Location In Oxford</li> </ul> These can all be found on <a href="https://www.paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk/photography-workshops-and-training/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">our website.</a> Every workshop is limited to six delegates so we can fine-tune the content for the attendees.  They're an absolute blast! If you're a portrait photographer, whether a pro or looking to break into the industry, these workshops are perfect for you.  We also provide a delicious lunch!  Never underestimate the need for good food! haha. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP134 The Power Of Thank You!

So it's 2023 already!  What happened to 2022?  This episode says a big thank you for 2022 and kicks off the year ahead with some thoughts on how to deal with so much negativity in the years and the media.  We're hitting it all with positivity, energy, creativity and laughter!  Well, you wouldn't expect anything different from us would you? We also say thanks to some incredible brands who have put a little faith in us and asked us to be ambassadors: Graphistudio (they create the best photographic albums on the planet!) https://www.graphistudio.com/en/  Pixellu (we use their brilliant Smart Albums application to do the heavy lifting for all of our album designs). If you fancy a discount, use the following link and discount code: https://www.pixellu.com/?fpr=masteringportraitphotography Code: MPP@2022 Panasonic Eneloop Batteries (not as sexy maybe as let's say, a camera but massively important!) These guys have very kindly helped with a little funding for the podcast - useful given that we entirely fund it, write it and produce it ourselves.  A little help like this goes a long way - just like the life of their AA batteries (sorry, couldn't resist!) https://amzn.eu/d/gbinUuT  Finally, we mention a package that is proving priceless for us in our colour correction - Imagen AI.  Machine Learning (aka. Artificial Intelligence) is certainly going to be a huge part of all of our lives in the future - some of it for good and some of it otherwise - and one or two applications have already emerged that are stunningly elegant in the way they support our business: this is one.  Since we added this to our workflow, it has not only saved us hour upon hour but has also improved the consistency of our colours and grading. Ai isn't all bad!  If you fancy getting 1500 free credits, use this link:https://www.imagen-ai.com/start?ref=paulwilkinson   We also want to thank all of our clients - both as subjects and as delegates to our workshops - we could not be happier and more grateful that you're part of our lives! THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU and here's to a fabulous year ahead! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

So it's 2023 already!  What happened to 2022?  This episode says a big thank you for 2022 and kicks off the year ahead with some thoughts on how to deal with so much negativity in the years and the media.  We're hitting it all with positivity, energy, creativity and laughter!  Well, you wouldn't expect anything different from us would you? We also say thanks to some incredible brands who have put a little faith in us and asked us to be ambassadors: Graphistudio (they create the best photographic albums on the planet!) <a href="https://www.graphistudio.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.graphistudio.com/en/</a> Pixellu (we use their brilliant Smart Albums application to do the heavy lifting for all of our album designs). If you fancy a discount, use the following link and discount code: <a href="https://www.pixellu.com/?fpr=masteringportraitphotography" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.pixellu.com/?fpr=masteringportraitphotography</a> Code: MPP@2022 Panasonic Eneloop Batteries (not as sexy maybe as let's say, a camera but massively important!) These guys have very kindly helped with a little funding for the podcast - useful given that we entirely fund it, write it and produce it ourselves.  A little help like this goes a long way - just like the life of their AA batteries (sorry, couldn't resist!) <a href="https://amzn.eu/d/gbinUuT" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://amzn.eu/d/gbinUuT</a> Finally, we mention a package that is proving priceless for us in our colour correction - Imagen AI.  Machine Learning (aka. Artificial Intelligence) is certainly going to be a huge part of all of our lives in the future - some of it for good and some of it otherwise - and one or two applications have already emerged that are stunningly elegant in the way they support our business: this is one.  Since we added this to our workflow, it has not only saved us hour upon hour but has also improved the consistency of our colours and grading. Ai isn't all bad!  If you fancy getting 1500 free credits, use this link: <a href="https://url.emailprotection.link/?bOBlK03OFRZ1-lvC8KC_pszMeAdQ5K33zufvotpW11L-lPG95TeK_eNLUjTafBmju5GZQhK0-kM9uA0yQc85N6CstjyirGC6SDylNkFF1R8oZgUeQtGv9wqB3FVqzarWi" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.imagen-ai.com/start?ref=paulwilkinson</a> We also want to thank all of our clients - both as subjects and as delegates to our workshops - we could not be happier and more grateful that you're part of our lives! THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU and here's to a fabulous year ahead! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP133 Dealing With The Year Ahead With Joy And Positivity!

We are a lucky business.  OK, I know you make your own luck to a greater or lesser degree, but we really are a lucky business.  Every day I work with people I love - from our team in the studio to our clients across the UK and further afield.   As we run into the festive holidays, our studio has been full of laughter (and the smell of gingerbread, thanks to our Christmas candles!) as clients come to pick up their last-minute gifts as well as albums and frames they ordered during the year.  The shelves have creaked under the weight of the boxes; each bowed with our distinctive ribbons and tags.  Today, with just a few days to Christmas, the shelves look empty, with just a few items left to be picked up. Every client through the door has brought joy and festive cheer and taken away photographs it has been a joy to create. Like I said, we are a lucky business. And so it is that I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked with my guest for this interview for the past decade.  Michele Jennings was, up until a couple of months ago, the CEO of Hearing Dogs For Deaf People - an incredible charity that provides assistance dogs for deaf adults and children.  I have worked with the organisation for the past 11 years and so it has been my pleasure to spend time with Michele and her team, creating images for the brand. This is a lovely interview and we cover all sorts of things from positivity to passion, from vision to values. As ever, I asked Michele to nominate a book and she recommended Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman and it's available on Amazon here https://www.amazon.co.uk/Four-Thousand-Weeks-Time-How/dp/1847924018 Definitely worth a read! If you're curious, Hearing Dogs For Deaf People can be found here: https://www.hearingdogs.org.uk/  Anyway, I hope you enjoy the interview! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

We are a lucky business.  OK, I know you make your own luck to a greater or lesser degree, but we really are a lucky business.  Every day I work with people I love - from our team in the studio to our clients across the UK and further afield.   As we run into the festive holidays, our studio has been full of laughter (and the smell of gingerbread, thanks to our Christmas candles!) as clients come to pick up their last-minute gifts as well as albums and frames they ordered during the year.  The shelves have creaked under the weight of the boxes; each bowed with our distinctive ribbons and tags.  Today, with just a few days to Christmas, the shelves look empty, with just a few items left to be picked up. Every client through the door has brought joy and festive cheer and taken away photographs it has been a joy to create. Like I said, we are a lucky business. And so it is that I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked with my guest for this interview for the past decade.  Michele Jennings was, up until a couple of months ago, the CEO of Hearing Dogs For Deaf People - an incredible charity that provides assistance dogs for deaf adults and children.  I have worked with the organisation for the past 11 years and so it has been my pleasure to spend time with Michele and her team, creating images for the brand. This is a lovely interview and we cover all sorts of things from positivity to passion, from vision to values. As ever, I asked Michele to nominate a book and she recommended Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman and it's available on Amazon here <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Four-Thousand-Weeks-Time-How/dp/1847924018" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.co.uk/Four-Thousand-Weeks-Time-How/dp/1847924018</a> Definitely worth a read! If you're curious, Hearing Dogs For Deaf People can be found here: <a href="https://www.hearingdogs.org.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.hearingdogs.org.uk/</a> Anyway, I hope you enjoy the interview! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP132 Interview With Michele Jennings, Former CEO Hearing Dogs UK

A couple of weeks ago, we judged the British Institute Of Professional Photographers (BIPP) 2022 national print competition. I have always loved being a judge and now, in my role as Chair Of Qualifications And Awards for the BIPP, I couldn't be happier!  I get to see so many incredible images and sit with so many incredible photographers.  It's one of the best gigs imaginable. In the first half of the episode, I step through the rigour of judging, how it is done, and how we ensure it is fair. In the second half of the episode,  I go through some of the notes I made while the judges assessed and commented on each of the entries. If you are curious about image competitions or fancy entering one - not just the BIPP competition - some of the things we spotted might be of use to you! Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

A couple of weeks ago, we judged the British Institute Of Professional Photographers (BIPP) 2022 national print competition. I have always loved being a judge and now, in my role as Chair Of Qualifications And Awards for the BIPP, I couldn't be happier!  I get to see so many incredible images and sit with so many incredible photographers.  It's one of the best gigs imaginable. In the first half of the episode, I step through the rigour of judging, how it is done, and how we ensure it is fair. In the second half of the episode,  I go through some of the notes I made while the judges assessed and commented on each of the entries. If you are curious about image competitions or fancy entering one - not just the BIPP competition - some of the things we spotted might be of use to you! Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP131 National Print Competition | Notes From The Judging

I recorded this podcast at 7am while sat in the studio, waiting for a new TV to be delivered.  Luckily it actually arrived when they said it would!  The TV is for our Client Reveal Room as we want our customers to have the best possible experience when they come back to see their pictures. But exactly how do you figure out where to spend your limited budget?  On things that benefit your client, that's where! In this episode, I mention a couple of different things.  Firstly, a reminder of the colour correction tool I love: Imagen AI If you use this link: https://www.imagen-ai.com/start?ref=paulwilkinson the lovely guys at Imagen AI will give you 1500 free (yes 1500 FREE) file corrections.  I get some as well, so feel free to use the link, and we BOTH get a freebie! We have just announced a brand new workshop: Mastering The Essentials Of Studio Lighting.. This workshop is very anyone who is venturing into studio lighting and wants to get to grips with creating stunning images with simple techniques and easily available kit.  We'll go through everything you need to know, from setting up the camera to getting the best out of your space.  Details can be found at https://www.paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk/store/workshops/mastering-essential-studio-lighting-21st-november-2022/ As always with our workshops, the number of attendees is strictly limited to 6 (or half a dozen if you prefer it in words) so everyone gets plenty of time to try things out and ask questions. At the mentioned workshop, we'll be serving a delicious lunch care of the guys at What's Cooking.  Admittedly this link is a little geo-restrictive (I doubt it's much use to listeners more than a few miles away!), but the lunch was sooooo good at the last workshop that I felt we just had to give a quick link! Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

I recorded this podcast at 7am while sat in the studio, waiting for a new TV to be delivered.  Luckily it actually arrived when they said it would!  The TV is for our Client Reveal Room as we want our customers to have the best possible experience when they come back to see their pictures. But exactly how do you figure out where to spend your limited budget?  On things that benefit your client, that's where! In this episode, I mention a couple of different things.  Firstly, a reminder of the colour correction tool I love: <a href="https://www.imagen-ai.com/join-refferal?ref=paulwilkinson" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Imagen AI</a> If you use this link: <a href="https://www.imagen-ai.com/join-refferal?ref=paulwilkinson" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.imagen-ai.com/start?ref=paulwilkinson</a> the lovely guys at Imagen AI will give you 1500 free (yes 1500 FREE) file corrections.  I get some as well, so feel free to use the link, and we BOTH get a freebie! We have just announced a brand new workshop: Mastering The Essentials Of Studio Lighting.. This workshop is very anyone who is venturing into studio lighting and wants to get to grips with creating stunning images with simple techniques and easily available kit.  We'll go through everything you need to know, from setting up the camera to getting the best out of your space.  Details can be found at <a href="https://www.paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk/store/workshops/mastering-essential-studio-lighting-21st-november-2022/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk/store/workshops/mastering-essential-studio-lighting-21st-november-2022/</a> As always with our workshops, the number of attendees is strictly limited to 6 (or half a dozen if you prefer it in words) so everyone gets plenty of time to try things out and ask questions. At the mentioned workshop, we'll be serving a delicious lunch care of the guys at <a href="https://www.whatscookingthame.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">What's Cooking</a>.  Admittedly this link is a little geo-restrictive (I doubt it's much use to listeners more than a few miles away!), but the lunch was sooooo good at the last workshop that I felt we just had to give a quick link! Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP130 Invest In Things That Benefit Your Client

At the end of a long week, the exhaustion can creep up on you.  Fatigue is not an unusual feeling for a professional photographer.  But finding your source of energy, whether it's your work, your clients, your colleagues or just some time out with family, is crucial. For me?  Well, for me it's always been about people in one form or another! The details of the Photo Hubs Oxford workshop mentioned in this episode can be found at: https://photohubs.co.uk/product/oxford-light/ This is a hands-on, three-hour workshop for no more than ten people and is all about the thing that I love doing most: finding and using available light for fantastic portraits! Would love to see you there! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

At the end of a long week, the exhaustion can creep up on you.  Fatigue is not an unusual feeling for a professional photographer.  But finding your source of energy, whether it's your work, your clients, your colleagues or just some time out with family, is crucial. For me?  Well, for me it's always been about people in one form or another! The details of the Photo Hubs Oxford workshop mentioned in this episode can be found at: <a href="https://photohubs.co.uk/product/oxford-light/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://photohubs.co.uk/product/oxford-light/</a> This is a hands-on, three-hour workshop for no more than ten people and is all about the thing that I love doing most: finding and using available light for fantastic portraits! Would love to see you there! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP129 - What Is Your Inner Energy Source?

I have honestly grown to love the sales process - from pitch to payment, it is something I never thought I'd get my head around but have surprised myself. One key aspect is understanding that a 'no' may not be all it seems.  In this episode, Sarah and I have stood out in the weather at Thame Food Festival, pitching to prospective clients.  Not everyone says 'yes' but learning that there are grades of success when it comes to selling, helps me not worry about those who've said 'no'. During this episode, I mention a piece of software we're now using to expedite our colour correction.  It's called ImagenAI and it uses machine learning to learn how YOU like YOUR colours, and then applies them.  It's very fast, it's very cool, it's incredibly accurate and it's cost-effective.  And, no, I am not in any way being paid to say that - it's just that this podcast was always meant to be helpful to other photographers and this is one of those moments when software is part of that value.   It can be found at https://www.imagen-ai.com/ Enjoy this episode! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

I have honestly grown to love the sales process - from pitch to payment, it is something I never thought I'd get my head around but have surprised myself. One key aspect is understanding that a 'no' may not be all it seems.  In this episode, Sarah and I have stood out in the weather at Thame Food Festival, pitching to prospective clients.  Not everyone says 'yes' but learning that there are grades of success when it comes to selling, helps me not worry about those who've said 'no'. During this episode, I mention a piece of software we're now using to expedite our colour correction.  It's called ImagenAI and it uses machine learning to learn how YOU like YOUR colours, and then applies them.  It's very fast, it's very cool, it's incredibly accurate and it's cost-effective.  And, no, I am not in any way being paid to say that - it's just that this podcast was always meant to be helpful to other photographers and this is one of those moments when software is part of that value.   It can be found at <a href="https://www.imagen-ai.com/join-refferal?ref_id=104055175" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.imagen-ai.com/</a> Enjoy this episode! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry. You can also read a full transcript of this episode. PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP128 Stay Positive: That ’No’ Might Just Be A ’Yes’ For A Later Date

Tales, techniques, tricks and tantrums from one of the UK’s top portrait photographers. Never just about photography but always about things that excite - or annoy - me as a full-time professional photographer, from histograms to history, from apertures to apathy, or motivation to megapixels. Essentially, anything and everything about the art, creativity and business of portrait photography. With some off-the-wall interviews thrown in for good measure!

Had a chance this week to go and enjoy some incredible sketches and watercolours at the Ashmolean in Oxford.  The artists?  The Pre Raphaelite Brotherhood - one of my favourite groups of artists.  Somewhat uncharacteristically, we also developed some Ilford XP2 film (our daughter wants a film camera) and I've been testing a few old boxes we've had laying around for the past 20 years or more. The results, if I was being charitable, weren't a disaster.  But they weren't great either. And that's in stark contrast to the camera I am using daily: the Nikon Z9.   This camera is so utterly good that it is literally changing everything I have believed in since I first picked up a DSLR.  Have a listen and see if you agree with me (or not!) Would love to hear your thoughts. Also, a quick reminder, if you're listening to the BEFORE 20th September 2022, Sarah and I will be presenting on the Graphistudio stand at the Photography Show at 1pm - grandstanding as usual - and you can also catch us on the BIPP stand, doing business and portfolio reviews. See you there! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

Had a chance this week to go and enjoy some incredible sketches and watercolours at the Ashmolean in Oxford.  The artists?  The Pre Raphaelite Brotherhood - one of my favourite groups of artists.  Somewhat uncharacteristically, we also developed some Ilford XP2 film (our daughter wants a film camera) and I've been testing a few old boxes we've had laying around for the past 20 years or more. The results, if I was being charitable, weren't a disaster.  But they weren't great either. And that's in stark contrast to the camera I am using daily: the Nikon Z9.   This camera is so utterly good that it is literally changing everything I have believed in since I first picked up a DSLR.  Have a listen and see if you agree with me (or not!) Would love to hear your thoughts. Also, a quick reminder, if you're listening to the BEFORE 20th September 2022, Sarah and I will be presenting on the Graphistudio stand at the Photography Show at 1pm - grandstanding as usual - and you can also catch us on the BIPP stand, doing business and portfolio reviews. See you there! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP127 - Things Change

After a little bit of a break from recording over the summer, this episode is a quick update and reflects on the experiences we had while visiting the beautiful Tuscany area of Italy.  As with so much in business, it's the experience that completely won us over (though the product was delicious too!) Huge shout to the Buglioni Winery (and, in particular, to Lorenzo, who could not have made us feel more special! We'll be back!) We have also been announced as ambassadors for three different top-flight companies (so these links are going to become familiar territory!) Graphistudio The best photographic albums in the world! Pixellu Smart Albums If you design albums, this is a lifesaver! Panasonic Eneloop Our whole studio has these rechargeable batteries powering it!  It is an honour to be associated with all of these products as we already use them all (because they're the best!) Wouldn't have it any other way for our clients! If you're reading this before Tuesday 20th September, 2022, Sarah and I will be talking on the Graphistudio stand at 1pm - we're going to be talking about five key things while creating a very special personal project with Graphistudio.  The lessons were personal they apply to any photographer wishing to make the most of their client opportunities.  Come say hello! Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

After a little bit of a break from recording over the summer, this episode is a quick update and reflects on the experiences we had while visiting the beautiful Tuscany area of Italy.  As with so much in business, it's the experience that completely won us over (though the product was delicious too!) Huge shout to the <a href="https://buglioni.it/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Buglioni Winery</a> (and, in particular, to Lorenzo, who could not have made us feel more special! We'll be back!) We have also been announced as ambassadors for three different top-flight companies (so these links are going to become familiar territory!) <ul><li><a href="https://www.graphistudio.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Graphistudio </a>The best photographic albums in the world!</li> <li><a href="https://www.pixellu.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pixellu Smart Albums</a> If you design albums, this is a lifesaver!</li> <li><a href="https://www.panasonic.com/global/energy/products/eneloop/en.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Panasonic Eneloop</a> Our whole studio has these rechargeable batteries powering it!</li> </ul> It is an honour to be associated with all of these products as we already use them all (because they're the best!) Wouldn't have it any other way for our clients! If you're reading this before Tuesday 20th September, 2022, Sarah and I will be talking on the Graphistudio stand at 1pm - we're going to be talking about five key things while creating a very special personal project with Graphistudio.  The lessons were personal they apply to any photographer wishing to make the most of their client opportunities.  Come say hello! Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

Podcast 0126 - How A Winery Won Us Over (and Lessons We Can Learn)

In this week's episode, I am talking about how we set up the sale in the shoot - not in the salesroom; the salesroom is where we close the deal.  I love this process, and it works, too: happy clients, great images and consistent (and high-value) sales.  Perfect.   Also, this episode is kindly sponsored by Pioneer Eneloop Batteries.  Once again, I am extolling the virtues of replacing all those single-use batteries with eco-friendly, long-life rechargeables.  I did the same thing last year and enjoyed using the batteries (and charger) so much that I went out and bought a complete set of them.  The Zoom recorder I used for this episode has Eneloop Pro batteries in it.  Love them.   You can get them on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3utOdzg    Also, I get carried away and end up chatting about the new headphones I bought - brilliant things!  Was always jealous of Sarah's AirPods Pro that I bought for her (https://amzn.to/3upRhMH), so as I headed off to work in Ibiza a few weeks ago, I bought some Sony equivalents. Life-changing.  Seriously. Life-changing.  Podcasts, Spotify, and even watching Netflix while I'm retouching, I love these things.     Again, these are available on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3AxhjRT    Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

In this week's episode, I am talking about how we set up the sale in the shoot - not in the salesroom; the salesroom is where we close the deal.  I love this process, and it works, too: happy clients, great images and consistent (and high-value) sales.  Perfect. Also, this episode is kindly sponsored by Pioneer Eneloop Batteries.  Once again, I am extolling the virtues of replacing all those single-use batteries with eco-friendly, long-life rechargeables.  I did the same thing last year and enjoyed using the batteries (and charger) so much that I went out and bought a complete set of them.  The Zoom recorder I used for this episode has Eneloop Pro batteries in it.  Love them. You can get them on Amazon at <a href="https://amzn.to/3utOdzg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3utOdzg</a> Also, I get carried away and end up chatting about the new headphones I bought - brilliant things!  Was always jealous of Sarah's AirPods Pro that I bought for her (<a href="https://amzn.to/3upRhMH" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3upRhMH</a>), so as I headed off to work in Ibiza a few weeks ago, I bought some Sony equivalents. Life-changing.  Seriously. Life-changing.  Podcasts, Spotify, and even watching Netflix while I'm retouching, I love these things.   Again, these are available on Amazon at <a href="https://amzn.to/3AxhjRT" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3AxhjRT</a> Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP125 You Set Up The Sale In The Shoot (Not The Saleroom)

Well, I'm back in the shed for this episode - love the acoustics in here.  Also, the peace and quiet as no-one disturbs me. This week's episode is inspired by an email we received from Bob and Sylvia (two of our lovely listeners) who described how they dragged out their wedding album and what they felt when going through it after fifty years of marriage. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

Well, I'm back in the shed for this episode - love the acoustics in here.  Also, the peace and quiet as no-one disturbs me. This week's episode is inspired by an email we received from Bob and Sylvia (two of our lovely listeners) who described how they dragged out their wedding album and what they felt when going through it after fifty years of marriage. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP124 Our Job Is To Make Memories

Ross Grieve

 This episode was recorded in a bar - possibly my favourite but, in contrast to our studio garden - not the quietest place to record audio.  But it makes me happy.  It was at this year’s incredible Societies of Photographers Convention in London where I spent the week judging and, well, generally feeling liberated from the previous two years of lockdown! The interview is with one of the nicest guys in the industry - Ross Grieve - who is a street and portrait photographer as well as a videographer and Panasonic Ambassador.  He is also the host of the Talking Shot podcast - details of which he gives in the interview. As always, I asked my interviewee to nominate a book that would make us smile and what a choice it is! The. Far Side, by Gary Larson is one of those books you just can't put down and can't help but feel better for reading.  Well, it is choc-full of funny cartoons after all! Of course, being in a bar, we had bought ourselves a pint or two and we commence with the obligatory cheers… During this episode, I also mention the workshops we've introduced here at our studio.  Details of these can be found here on our website. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

This episode was recorded in a bar - possibly my favourite but, in contrast to our studio garden - not the quietest place to record audio.  But it makes me happy.  It was at this year’s incredible Societies of Photographers Convention in London where I spent the week judging and, well, generally feeling liberated from the previous two years of lockdown! The interview is with one of the nicest guys in the industry - Ross Grieve - who is a street and portrait photographer as well as a videographer and Panasonic Ambassador.  He is also the host of the <a href="http://www.talkingshot.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Talking Shot podcas</a>t - details of which he gives in the interview. As always, I asked my interviewee to nominate a book that would make us smile and what a choice it is! The. <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1449460046/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_KT6H40HPSWXPERAB1C31" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Far Side, by Gary Larson</a> is one of those books you just can't put down and can't help but feel better for reading.  Well, it is choc-full of funny cartoons after all! Of course, being in a bar, we had bought ourselves a pint or two and we commence with the obligatory cheers… During this episode, I also mention the workshops we've introduced here at our studio.  Details of these can be found <a href="https://www.paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk/photography-workshops-and-training/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here on our website</a>. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP123 Interview With Street Photographer Ross Grieve

It's late and I'm driving back from a beautiful spring wedding, shot in uncharacteristic April sunshine.  I am, to put it mildly, hot and tired.  in spite of this, I thought it would be an idea to record a quick podcast on my way home, so here it is - various musings on finding freedom in the studio and the joy of using the Z9  as a wedding photographer. Oh, and I got to photograph some fireworks which is always a lot of fun! During this episode, I mention the workshops we've introduced here at our studio.  Details of these can be found here on our website. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

It's late and I'm driving back from a beautiful spring wedding, shot in uncharacteristic April sunshine.  I am, to put it mildly, hot and tired.  in spite of this, I thought it would be an idea to record a quick podcast on my way home, so here it is - various musings on finding freedom in the studio and the joy of using the Z9  as a wedding photographer. Oh, and I got to photograph some fireworks which is always a lot of fun! During this episode, I mention the workshops we've introduced here at our studio.  Details of these can be found <a href="https://www.paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk/photography-workshops-and-training/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here on our website</a>. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP122 Fireworks and Finding Freedom In The Studio

I think I may have mentioned this before, but I LOVE creating portraits.  The past couple of days have been all about headshots - part corporate, part creative branding.  Either way, these are just portraits. And that is something that I cannot stress enough: if you're a portrait photographer, creating cool, engaging headshots is no different to creating fine-art portraits - and you get to meet some incredibly interesting people along the way.   When you're designing your photography business, it is worth remembering that there is more than one way to generate revenue if you have a talent for capturing portraits! During this episode, I mention the workshops we've introduced here at our studio.  Details of these can be found here on our website. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

I think I may have mentioned this before, but I LOVE creating portraits.  The past couple of days have been all about headshots - part corporate, part creative branding.  Either way, these are just portraits. And that is something that I cannot stress enough: if you're a portrait photographer, creating cool, engaging headshots is no different to creating fine-art portraits - and you get to meet some incredibly interesting people along the way.   When you're designing your photography business, it is worth remembering that there is more than one way to generate revenue if you have a talent for capturing portraits! During this episode, I mention the workshops we've introduced here at our studio.  Details of these can be found <a href="https://www.paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk/photography-workshops-and-training/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here on our website</a>. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP121 Portraits Are Portraits, Even If They’re Corporate

So it's been a month since recording the last podcast.  A busy month. A very busy month.  But during that time I did manage to get some time out with Sarah and our trusty spaniel, Rufus, and go for a walking holiday in South Wales.   Wales is my home country so it is always a real joy to be back - there is something about the country, its ruggedness and its friendliness in equal measure: a week of walking, enjoying the sights and laughing.  Glorious. During the week, I had a chance to experience customer service in all its glory (and otherwise) and I took the opportunity of paying attention to see if there is anything we could learn.   During this podcast, I mention some  workshops we've introduced here at our studio.  Details of these can be found here on our website. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

So it's been a month since recording the last podcast.  A busy month. A very busy month.  But during that time I did manage to get some time out with Sarah and our trusty spaniel, Rufus, and go for a walking holiday in South Wales.   Wales is my home country so it is always a real joy to be back - there is something about the country, its ruggedness and its friendliness in equal measure: a week of walking, enjoying the sights and laughing.  Glorious. During the week, I had a chance to experience customer service in all its glory (and otherwise) and I took the opportunity of paying attention to see if there is anything we could learn.   During this podcast, I mention some  workshops we've introduced here at our studio.  Details of these can be found <a href="https://www.paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk/photography-workshops-and-training/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here on our website</a>. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP120 Service Is King, No Matter The Market

If there is one skill I have, it's recognising an opportunity when it bops me on the nose.  Today was one of those moments.  Helen May actually came to the studio to update her headshots but the minute we sat and talked about her work on diversity and inclusion, I knew she would be perfect to have on the podcast.  Luckily both of our diaries had some time after her session and so we sat, chatted and laughed about her life, her work, her new book and how photographers (like me) can learn and improve our approach both as company owners and as people who interact with people on a daily (or hourly!) basis. Helen's new book Everyone Included is available on Amazon: Diversity and inclusion (D&amp;I) isn’t just an HR exercise – it can make a real difference to your team performance too.  By making everyone in your team feel like they belong, you’ll be able to boost motivation and productivity. Everyone Included helps you make inclusion, belonging and wellbeing central to your team. By helping everyone feel that they belong, your team will foster genuine inclusion and be ready to adapt and evolve in the future.  With a step-by-step plan to design and implement a diversity and inclusion plan that brings results:  Where are you now? – Understand your team profile now by conducting a belonging Audit to identify how inclusive your team is.  What do I do next? – Design a D&amp;I plan, including a business case to win support, and identify key metrics to measure its effectiveness  How do I keep going? – Ensure your programme continually improves and remains relevant by creating measurements and feedback loops Everyone Included is your comprehensive, step-by-step guide to creating a diversity and inclusion strategy that delivers results for your team. As always, I asked my interviewee for a book recommendation for our little library and she recommended The Art Of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli - and can be found here on Amazon. It was a very funny, very informative hour or so and well worth a listen.  Of course, I would say that but have a listen and see what you think!   And if you're thinking that Helen and I hit it off immediately?  Well, you'd be absolutely right! Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk. 

If there is one skill I have, it's recognising an opportunity when it bops me on the nose.  Today was one of those moments.  Helen May actually came to the studio to update her headshots but the minute we sat and talked about her work on diversity and inclusion, I knew she would be perfect to have on the podcast.  Luckily both of our diaries had some time after her session and so we sat, chatted and laughed about her life, her work, her new book and how photographers (like me) can learn and improve our approach both as company owners and as people who interact with people on a daily (or hourly!) basis. Helen's new book Everyone Included is <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Everyone-Included-belonging-diversity-inclusion/dp/1292342609" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">available on Amazon</a>: Diversity and inclusion (D&amp;I) isn’t just an HR exercise – it can make a real difference to your team performance too. By making everyone in your team feel like they belong, you’ll be able to boost motivation and productivity. Everyone Included helps you make inclusion, belonging and wellbeing central to your team. By helping everyone feel that they belong, your team will foster genuine inclusion and be ready to adapt and evolve in the future. With a step-by-step plan to design and implement a diversity and inclusion plan that brings results: <ol><li>Where are you now? – Understand your team profile now by conducting a belonging Audit to identify how inclusive your team is. </li> <li>What do I do next? – Design a D&amp;I plan, including a business case to win support, and identify key metrics to measure its effectiveness </li> <li>How do I keep going? – Ensure your programme continually improves and remains relevant by creating measurements and feedback loops Everyone Included is your comprehensive, step-by-step guide to creating a diversity and inclusion strategy that delivers results for your team.</li> </ol>As always, I asked my interviewee for a book recommendation for our little library and she recommended The Art Of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli - and can be found <a href="https://read.amazon.co.uk/kp/embed?asin=B00AJP267G&amp;preview=newtab&amp;linkCode=kpe&amp;ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_RVYG38CWK3X53WTXFJ93" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here on Amazon</a>. It was a very funny, very informative hour or so and well worth a listen.  Of course, I would say that but have a listen and see what you think!   And if you're thinking that Helen and I hit it off immediately?  Well, you'd be absolutely right! Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, for more articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.

EP119 Everyone Included: Interview With Author Helen May

It's 2022 and I have to say it's starting off in a very positive mood!  Admittedly New Year didn't go quite to plan, thanks to Covid and family injury, but other than that all good. And besides, my Nikon Z9 has arrived and I am now having a ball with what can only be described as the best camera I've ever had the pleasure to use.  More on that in this and future podcasts! We had a wonderful email today from a client saying how happy she was with everything we'd done - a truly lovely email to receive!  But here's the thing: during this particular job, a mistake had crept in.  They sometimes do; we are a team of humans!  But how we dealt with it, how we managed it, how we reacted to that client and made sure we did everything possible to apologise and fix it, well that made all the difference. And we have an email to prove it! Running a business is never going to be easy but dealing with mistakes has to be at the very heart of what you do.   Just remember: Admit It, Own It, Fix It. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography, where there are articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk.  If you'd like to use one of the other players out there, why not try Vurbl?  

It's 2022 and I have to say it's starting off in a very positive mood!  Admittedly New Year didn't go quite to plan, thanks to Covid and family injury, but other than that all good. And besides, my Nikon Z9 has arrived and I am now having a ball with what can only be described as the best camera I've ever had the pleasure to use.  More on that in this and future podcasts! We had a wonderful email today from a client saying how happy she was with everything we'd done - a truly lovely email to receive!  But here's the thing: during this particular job, a mistake had crept in.  They sometimes do; we are a team of humans!  But how we dealt with it, how we managed it, how we reacted to that client and made sure we did everything possible to apologise and fix it, well that made all the difference. And we have an email to prove it! Running a business is never going to be easy but dealing with mistakes has to be at the very heart of what you do.   Just remember: Admit It, Own It, Fix It. Enjoy! Cheers P. If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a>, where there are articles and videos about this beautiful industry.  PLEASE also subscribe and leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics, you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>.  If you'd like to use one of the other players out there, why not try <a href="https://vurbl.com/station/3N68oOfyssF/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vurbl</a>?

EP118 Admit It, Own It, Fix It

Thank you.love the bits about your favorite books and photographers.

Wonderful Podcast

I listened to several episodes today and am so happy I found this. Episode 37 really resonated with me. I have noticed a trend in how photos are critiqued in a rather rude manner at times, that totally discourages a photographer. I quit watching and subscribing a popular U.S. based  one who seemed to mock and make fun of people. That is not helpful to anyone. Great podcast. I loved the points you made. Thank you!

Love this podcast.

The Mastering Portrait Photography Podcast

So you know what it's like: you're in the middle of a busy week, the weather is crappy, you're tired and you have a shoot to do... Not exactly conducive to creativity.  And yet, and yet...  your job is to weave your magic - from the experience to the images, your clients rely on you, nay your business relies on you to kick into gear and perform to the absolute limit of your ability. Even if you'd rather be sitting with a cup of tea (or a glass of wine!) And that is always the case. No matter what, it is crucial that you turn up and you're present.  100%.  Each. And. Every. Time. Your clients deserve it. Enjoy! If you do enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on iTunes, PodBean and Spotify. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk 

So you know what it's like: you're in the middle of a busy week, the weather is crappy, you're tired and you have a shoot to do... Not exactly conducive to creativity.  And yet, and yet...  your job is to weave your magic - from the experience to the images, your clients rely on you, nay your business relies on you to kick into gear and perform to the absolute limit of your ability. Even if you'd rather be sitting with a cup of tea (or a glass of wine!) And that is always the case. No matter what, it is crucial that you turn up and you're present.  100%.  Each. And. Every. Time. Your clients deserve it. Enjoy! If you do enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a> where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/mastering-portrait-photography-podcast/id1356552539?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://masteringportraitphotography.podbean.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PodBean</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1aDS2SPZo0DC9Vg15Yc4JI?si=APyhD4GHSBKsn81Cfab9dg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spotify</a>. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>

Ep.64 The Importance Of Being Present

It's just me this episode, wittering away about the week that's been and something that was raised during a recent presentation to a camera club: that photography judges can be pretty rude.  And I don't think it's right or proper that this is the case: judges should be polite, constructive, inspiring, entertaining and, most of all, supportive. During this episode, I also mention the announcement of The 2 Fellows Workshop - details for the 2020 workshop in Graphistudio's Castello Ceconi can be found at www.the2fellows.co.uk. We'd love to see you there! If you did enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on iTunes, PodBean and Spotify. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk 

It's just me this episode, wittering away about the week that's been and something that was raised during a recent presentation to a camera club: that photography judges can be pretty rude.  And I don't think it's right or proper that this is the case: judges should be polite, constructive, inspiring, entertaining and, most of all, supportive. During this episode, I also mention the announcement of The 2 Fellows Workshop - details for the 2020 workshop in Graphistudio's Castello Ceconi can be found at <a href="http://www.the2fellows.co.uk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.the2fellows.co.uk</a>. We'd love to see you there! If you did enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a> where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/mastering-portrait-photography-podcast/id1356552539?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://masteringportraitphotography.podbean.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PodBean</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1aDS2SPZo0DC9Vg15Yc4JI?si=APyhD4GHSBKsn81Cfab9dg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spotify</a>. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>

Ep.45 Photography Judges Should Not Be Rude

Well, it's just me in this podcast: me, a microphone, a couple of hours in the car and Friday night rush hour traffic. Clearly I had time to kill so in this recording I chat away about bits and pieces but mostly about figuring out clients and why you have to stay positive no matter what happens. I also take the opportunity to add a new book to the Photographer's Library: Hug Your Customers by Jack Mitchell.  I admit it's been a while since I read it (and I am NOT necessarily advocating ACTUALLY hugging your customers but this is a good book for some ideas about building your business!) If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on iTunes, PodBean and Spotify. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk 

Well, it's just me in this podcast: me, a microphone, a couple of hours in the car and Friday night rush hour traffic. Clearly I had time to kill so in this recording I chat away about bits and pieces but mostly about figuring out clients and why you have to stay positive no matter what happens. I also take the opportunity to add a new book to the Photographer's Library: <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hug-Your-Customers-Love-Results/dp/0141015225/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=hug+your+customers&amp;qid=1559945262&amp;s=books&amp;sr=1-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hug Your Customers by Jack Mitchell</a>.  I admit it's been a while since I read it (and I am NOT necessarily advocating ACTUALLY hugging your customers but this is a good book for some ideas about building your business!) If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a> where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/mastering-portrait-photography-podcast/id1356552539?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://masteringportraitphotography.podbean.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PodBean</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1aDS2SPZo0DC9Vg15Yc4JI?si=APyhD4GHSBKsn81Cfab9dg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spotify</a>. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>

Ep.51 Thinking About Clients

Melanie East

In this interview, I get to spend a very happy hour in the company of Melanie East, an extraordinary Newborn Photographer and Trainer: Melanie is known around the world for her passion and creativity for newborn photography and is the author of the book The Art Of Newborn Photography.  She is equally passionate about running a business which is key to the success of any social photographer! We get to talk about how (and why) she became a newborn photographer; her views on safety; running a business; the love of the sales process and her taste in soft furnishings (which, it has to be said, is flawless.) Her chosen book - which I initially struggle to spot under a huge pile of publications that permanently resides on her coffee table - is the Icons Of Photography by Peter Stepan which is a wonderfully worthy addition to our ever-expanding library.  And you can get 2nd-hand copies for less than a fiver!  Bargain. Enjoy! If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on iTunes, PodBean and Spotify. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk 

In this interview, I get to spend a very happy hour in the company of Melanie East, an extraordinary Newborn Photographer and Trainer: Melanie is known around the world for her passion and creativity for newborn photography and is the author of the book <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/178500218X/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_2QWsDb2GBRFJV" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Art Of Newborn Photography</a>.  She is equally passionate about running a business which is key to the success of any social photographer! We get to talk about how (and why) she became a newborn photographer; her views on safety; running a business; the love of the sales process and her taste in soft furnishings (which, it has to be said, is flawless.) Her chosen book - which I initially struggle to spot under a huge pile of publications that permanently resides on her coffee table - is the <a href="https://www.abebooks.co.uk/servlet/SearchResults?isbn=9783791333366&amp;cm_sp=mbc-_-ISBN-_-all" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Icons Of Photography by Peter Stepan</a> which is a wonderfully worthy addition to our ever-expanding library.  And you can get 2nd-hand copies for less than a fiver!  Bargain. Enjoy! If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a> where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/mastering-portrait-photography-podcast/id1356552539?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://masteringportraitphotography.podbean.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PodBean</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1aDS2SPZo0DC9Vg15Yc4JI?si=APyhD4GHSBKsn81Cfab9dg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spotify</a>. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>

Ep.58 Interview With Melanie East, Newborn Photographer

Richard Bradbury

A real pleasure to have interviewed Richard Bradbury FBIPP FMPA.  Richard is one of the world's great photographers and an all round nice guy and the interview is full of little gems about preparing for sales, customer service and authenticity. In fact, our chat in his west London studio is full of useful stuff for anyone interested in running a photography business. As is our way, I asked Richard to recommend a book or two for our ever-expanding library of interesting books. Richard recommended Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Süskind and The Work Of Hipgnosis : Walk Away Renee by Storm Thorgerson. Enjoy! If you do enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on iTunes, PodBean and Spotify. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk 

A real pleasure to have interviewed Richard Bradbury FBIPP FMPA.  Richard is one of the world's great photographers and an all round nice guy and the interview is full of little gems about preparing for sales, customer service and authenticity. In fact, our chat in his west London studio is full of useful stuff for anyone interested in running a photography business. As is our way, I asked Richard to recommend a book or two for our ever-expanding library of interesting books. Richard recommended <a href="https://amzn.to/2QrAPZ2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Süskind</a> and <a href="https://amzn.to/32Uh9zy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Work Of Hipgnosis : Walk Away Renee by Storm Thorgerson.</a> Enjoy! If you do enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a> where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/mastering-portrait-photography-podcast/id1356552539?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://masteringportraitphotography.podbean.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PodBean</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1aDS2SPZo0DC9Vg15Yc4JI?si=APyhD4GHSBKsn81Cfab9dg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spotify</a>. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>

Ep.63 Interview With Photographer Richard Bradbury FBIPP FMPA

In this episode, I ponder on WHY on earth I am taking the shot?  There has to be a reason, right?  Surely I am not just lying in the dirt for the fun of it! In this day and age it is all too easy to simply take the photograph because you can - not because it's a good image or there's a profound reason to take it.  These are my thoughts on some reasons why you should create that image - and some thoughts on not bothering if there's no good reason to. Enjoy! If you do enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on iTunes, PodBean and Spotify. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk 

In this episode, I ponder on WHY on earth I am taking the shot?  There has to be a reason, right?  Surely I am not just lying in the dirt for the fun of it! In this day and age it is all too easy to simply take the photograph because you can - not because it's a good image or there's a profound reason to take it.  These are my thoughts on some reasons why you should create that image - and some thoughts on not bothering if there's no good reason to. Enjoy! If you do enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a> where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/mastering-portrait-photography-podcast/id1356552539?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://masteringportraitphotography.podbean.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PodBean</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1aDS2SPZo0DC9Vg15Yc4JI?si=APyhD4GHSBKsn81Cfab9dg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spotify</a>. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>

Ep.62 Think About The WHY Not Just The WHAT!

Karen Massey

"You soon start to learn a lot more about business" In this interview, I get to talk to Karen Massey, wedding and portrait photographer.  Karen is a successful photographer and business owner, having started out owning a beauticians and then transferring her business skills to setting up a photography studio. She talks about how she has always worked, how she had to 'soften her accent' (not something you could be asked by an employer to do in this day and age!) and her plans for her new venture: RISE PFP, a group for professional female photographers. Plenty for everyone in this podcast from business insights to how she runs her weddings.  Oh, and she's really lovely too! Not only did Karen bring ideas for books for our little library, but she brought the actual books too! The first is A Coastal Reflection by Mary Shayler.  This can be found here on Blurb books The second is the Aston Martin Centenary Collection Programme 1913-2013. One for all you petrol heads out there! As I suspected in the podcast, this isn't one that you can buy (though a few copies do appear to be on eBay.) A real one off for our library!  Both worthy additions to our library! If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on iTunes, PodBean and Spotify. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk 

"You soon start to learn a lot more about business" In this interview, I get to talk to Karen Massey, wedding and portrait photographer.  Karen is a successful photographer and business owner, having started out owning a beauticians and then transferring her business skills to setting up a photography studio. She talks about how she has always worked, how she had to 'soften her accent' (not something you could be asked by an employer to do in this day and age!) and her plans for her new venture: <a href="https://www.rise-pfp.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">RISE PFP</a>, a group for professional female photographers. Plenty for everyone in this podcast from business insights to how she runs her weddings.  Oh, and she's really lovely too! Not only did Karen bring ideas for books for our little library, but she brought the actual books too! <ul><li>The first is A Coastal Reflection by Mary Shayler.  This can be found <a href="https://www.blurb.co.uk/b/1937617-a-coastal-reflection" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here on Blurb books</a></li> <li>The second is the Aston Martin Centenary Collection Programme 1913-2013. One for all you petrol heads out there! As I suspected in the podcast, this isn't one that you can buy (though a few copies do appear to be on eBay.) A real one off for our library!</li> </ul> Both worthy additions to our library! If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a> where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/mastering-portrait-photography-podcast/id1356552539?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://masteringportraitphotography.podbean.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PodBean</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1aDS2SPZo0DC9Vg15Yc4JI?si=APyhD4GHSBKsn81Cfab9dg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spotify</a>. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>

Ep.55 Interview With Karen Massey, Photographer

In this episode, I am talking about the all-too familiar feelings of a photography business: faith, fear and fatigue (and possibly one or two other 'F' words!) When you start you set out from some point of having nothing more than an idea - and a whole heap of faith! Insecurity, sure, ignorance, naivity, risk, maybe a little poverty - but, in the end, an utter belief that it’s the right thing to do.  You may not be right, of course, but that faith carries you into the new venture. Then it works. And the fatigue and the fear kick in. This podcast is just me chatting away about those feelings and reading out the email I sent to Sarah way back in 2006 that described how I hoped things might pan out and firmly setting the two of us as the team that would make it happen (even though both of us were in different careers at that point!) I mentioned a book by Anita Roddick in the email I sent to Sarah - I think she bought the bought the book for me as a Christmas present.  That book is 'Business Unusual' and can be found on Amazon for 1 pence (the postage is probably a tenner...) If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on iTunes, PodBean and Spotify. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk 

In this episode, I am talking about the all-too familiar feelings of a photography business: faith, fear and fatigue (and possibly one or two other 'F' words!) When you start you set out from some point of having nothing more than an idea - and a whole heap of faith! Insecurity, sure, ignorance, naivity, risk, maybe a little poverty - but, in the end, an utter belief that it’s the right thing to do.  You may not be right, of course, but that faith carries you into the new venture. Then it works. And the fatigue and the fear kick in. This podcast is just me chatting away about those feelings and reading out the email I sent to Sarah way back in 2006 that described how I hoped things might pan out and firmly setting the two of us as the team that would make it happen (even though both of us were in different careers at that point!) I mentioned a book by Anita Roddick in the email I sent to Sarah - I think she bought the bought the book for me as a Christmas present.  That book is <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0954395956/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">'Business Unusual'</a> and can be found on Amazon for 1 pence (the postage is probably a tenner...) If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a> where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/mastering-portrait-photography-podcast/id1356552539?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://masteringportraitphotography.podbean.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PodBean</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1aDS2SPZo0DC9Vg15Yc4JI?si=APyhD4GHSBKsn81Cfab9dg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spotify</a>. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>

Ep.56 Faith, Fear, Fatigue: The ‘F’ Words Of A Photography Business

In this podcast I get to chat with Terry Hope, the long standing editor of Professional Photo Magazine and its newbie publisher, having acquired the magazine just a few short weeks ago. Having trained as a photographer Terry went straight into journalism and has worked on titles as varied as Camera Weekly, Amateur Photographer and Professional Photographer. He was part of the team that launched Bright Publishing 13 years ago and was launch editor of Digital Photo Pro, which morphed into Professional Photo a few years back. As the new owner Terry is looking to shake up the title and to introduce lots of fresh ideas and online features, and to kick things off a new website at www.professionalphoto.online has just been launched. In this interview, he chats about his life, career, the industry (magazine and photography) and how he used to play bass in a punk band.  During the interview, as we always do, Terry added the book "Dogs" by Elliott Erwitt to our photographer's libary - you can buy your copy at Abe Books. Our library is growing fast (we order a copy of each of the books mentioned as I have always loved being surrounded by books!) If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to Mastering Portrait Photography where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on iTunes, PodBean and Spotify. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk 

In this podcast I get to chat with Terry Hope, the long standing editor of Professional Photo Magazine and its newbie publisher, having acquired the magazine just a few short weeks ago. Having trained as a photographer Terry went straight into journalism and has worked on titles as varied as Camera Weekly, Amateur Photographer and Professional Photographer. He was part of the team that launched Bright Publishing 13 years ago and was launch editor of Digital Photo Pro, which morphed into Professional Photo a few years back. As the new owner Terry is looking to shake up the title and to introduce lots of fresh ideas and online features, and to kick things off a new website at <a href="http://www.professionalphoto.online/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.professionalphoto.online</a> has just been launched. In this interview, he chats about his life, career, the industry (magazine and photography) and how he used to play bass in a punk band.  During the interview, as we always do, Terry added the book "Dogs" by Elliott Erwitt to our photographer's libary - you can buy your copy at <a href="https://www.abebooks.co.uk/servlet/SearchResults?isbn=0714838055&amp;cm_sp=mbc-_-ISBN-_-all" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Abe Books.</a> Our library is growing fast (we order a copy of each of the books mentioned as I have always loved being surrounded by books!) If you enjoy this podcast, please head over to <a href="https://www.masteringportraitphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mastering Portrait Photography</a> where there are articles and videos about this wonderful industry.  You can subscribe to this podcast on <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/mastering-portrait-photography-podcast/id1356552539?mt=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">iTunes</a>, <a href="https://masteringportraitphotography.podbean.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PodBean</a> and <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1aDS2SPZo0DC9Vg15Yc4JI?si=APyhD4GHSBKsn81Cfab9dg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spotify</a>. PLEASE also leave us a review - we'd love to hear what you think! If there are any topics you would like to hear, have questions we could answer or would simply like to come and be interviewed on the podcast, please contact me at <a href="mailto:paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk">paul@paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk</a>

Ep.50 Interview With Terry Hope, Editor, Professional Photo Magazine

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