The MOOD Podcast

What's the secret to finding humanity in the most unexpected places?Rick Smolan is a world-renowned photographer and CEO of Against All Odds Productions. Creator of the groundbreaking Day in the Life series, his illustrious career in photography showcases the transformative power of storytelling through imagery.Rick has spent decades pushing boundaries with his work, which has spanned continents, best-seller lists, and media outlets, focusing on raising awareness about critical global issues, from the human face of big data to social justice movements.Highlights of our conversation:Discussing the Day in the Life series and its impact.Navigating the ethical dilemmas in photojournalism.Exploring the intersection of technology and storytelling.The evolving role of photography and the challenges photographers face today.Why personal storytelling and authenticity remain key to standing out as a creative.The secrets to pitching projects to CEOs and securing support from major corporations.Navigating the rise of AI, misinformation, and the enduring value of authentic photography.Find Rick's work on his channels:Website: www.againstallodds.comInstagram: @ricksmolanThreads: @ricksmolan_________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co

What does it mean to preserve a culture through photography in a world that is constantly changing? Sebastián Belaustegui, widely known as 'Suki', is a cultural photographer whose work spans over 3 decades, documenting the stories, traditions, and rituals of indigenous communities across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Through his portraits and projects like Guardians of Time, Suki has preserved cultural heritage while fostering empathy and understanding. His personal journey through profound mental health challenges has further shaped his life and work, inspiring resilience and authenticity in his art.Highlights of my conversation with him:Experiences with severe mental health struggles, including anxiety, depression, and recoveries from it.The ethics of documenting indigenous communities and how to approach subjects with respect.How to use photography to elevate the voices of underrepresented cultures and educate others.The balance between raising awareness of indigenous populations and protecting them from overexposure.Why the experience of creating a photograph is often more meaningful than the final image.Teaching mindfulness, respect, and ethics in photography.Building relationships with subjects before taking photographs.Advice for photographers on slowing down, observing, and embracing the process over competition.Find Suki's work on his channels:Website: www.sebastian-suki-belaustegui.comInstagram: @photosookyThank you to Luminar Neo for sponsoring this episode - get 25% discount on all their products here using the code MOODPODCAST25.__________________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co

“My goal is nothing less than to change the way you see.” This powerful declaration from Art Wolfe, a world-renowned photographer, perfectly encapsulates his life’s mission of reshaping perspectives through the lens of photography.Known for his breathtaking images of nature, wildlife, and diverse cultures, he has published over 100 books, hosted the Emmy-nominated TV series Travels to the Edge, and led numerous photography workshops across the globe. Art’s work is deeply rooted in conservation, blending his artistic vision with a commitment to preserving the planet.Our conversation covered:Art Wolfe’s artistic journey, from painting to photography.How abstract expressionism influences his photography workshops.Insights into his Emmy-nominated series Travels to the Edge and its impact on his career.Challenges of navigating cultural sensitivities when leading workshops and tours.The importance of finding beauty in unexpected places and developing a unique creative voice.Why constant reinvention is crucial for growth as an artist.The role of photography in global conservation efforts.Lessons learned from decades of exploration, including hilarious mistakes like photographing without film.Find Art Wolfe's work on his channels:Website: www.artwolfe.comInstagram: @artwolfeYou Tube: @artaolfephotoThank you to Luminar Neo for sponsoring this episode - get 25% discount on all their products here using the code MOODPODCAST25.__________________________________________________Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co

Photography isn't just about capturing moments; it's about capturing mindsets, struggles, and victories. As we celebrate reaching 50,000 subscribers, I reflect on why I started this podcast in the first place, and what I hope to bring you in the future. We are just beginning, and hope that you can continue to join me for what's to come!Your feedback is my guide though, as we explore options for sustaining this creative journey, so please, don't be afraid to let me know what you think. Without you, none of this would be possible.So, thank you.Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work. YouTube:www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ayLearn with mehttps://mattjacobphotography.com/learnMy Newsletterhttps://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletterWebsite:www.mattjacobphotography.comSocials:IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ayyoreh.www.yoreh.co