Shutter Nonsense: A Nature Photography Podcast

In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey are joined by landscape photographer Jon Norris to talk about Joshua Tree National Park, a place that has become one of Jon’s favorite subjects and creative escapes. Jon shares what keeps pulling him back to Joshua Tree after hundreds of visits, from the strange character of the trees to the glowing rock formations, hidden corners, old mine workings, and the need to explore beyond the obvious roadside views. The conversation also gets into how learning more about a place, its geology, history, plants, wildlife, and people, can shape the way we photograph it. They also talk about the challenges of leading photography workshops in national parks, including recent CUA restrictions in Joshua Tree that led Jon to step back from offering workshops there. From there, the conversation turns toward stewardship, responsible park use, volunteering, and the role photographers can play in helping people better understand and care for public lands. And because this is Shutter Nonsense, the episode eventually wanders into social media, Substack, websites, and the ongoing question of where photographers should be sharing their work. Join the conversation over on Patreon. Free members and paid supporters can jump into the post-episode discussion, and we’d love to hear your thoughts on Joshua Tree, national park stewardship, workshops, social media, or anything else this episode brings up. 👉 https://www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights: Jon Norris shares how Joshua Tree became his photographic “happy place” Why Joshua Tree rewards exploration more than checklist photography Jeffrey looks back on rock climbing in Joshua Tree before photographing it How geology, history, and ecology can add depth to landscape photography The recent CUA and workshop restrictions affecting photography workshops in Joshua Tree Why responsible workshop leaders can act as stewards for public lands Jon’s volunteer work with Joshua Tree National Park Association and the Desert Institute Leaving Instagram, finding community on Substack, and keeping your website as home base Related Links: Jon Norris’ website: https://jonnorrisphoto.com/ Jon’s Substack: https://jonnorrisphoto.substack.com/ Jon’s interview with Grant Swinbourne: https://www.podbean.com/ep/pb-fnmvs-1a19edd Michael Frye’s Yosemite photography guide book: https://amzn.to/4dRQ87L Alabama Hills: https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/california/alabama-hills-national-scenic-area Joshua Tree National Park Association: https://joshuatree.org/ Desert Institute: https://joshuatree.org/desert-institute/ Nature First Principles: https://naturefirst.org/en/principles/ National Park Foundation: https://www.nationalparks.org/ Michael’s Featured Frames series: https://www.patreon.com/collection/500898 Landscape Photographers Worldwide: https://discord.gg/kCVTCFFA NPN (Nature Photographers Network): https://www.naturephotographers.network/

In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey are joined by nature photographer Brenda Tharp for a thoughtful conversation about finding your own creative voice in landscape and nature photography. Brenda shares her perspective on the pressure to photograph popular locations, follow trends, chase social media approval, and balance personal expression with the realities of building a photography business. The conversation moves from iconic landscapes and intimate scenes to print sales, creative confidence, and the ongoing challenge of staying true to what actually excites you behind the camera. Brenda also shares stories from her own career, life on the road, photographing beyond the obvious view, and why the most meaningful work often comes from slowing down, looking deeper, and trusting what resonates with you. In this episode, we talk about: Why iconic landscape locations can still be worth photographing The pressure photographers feel from social media trends Finding your own creative voice instead of chasing likes Balancing personal passion with the business side of photography Why intimate landscapes and grand views both have value The challenge of sharing work that feels personal How photographers can avoid creative burnout Why staying true to your own vision is a lifelong process Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. 👉 https://www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Related Links: Brenda’s website: https://www.brendatharp.com/Brenda’s Substack: https://brendatharp.substack.com/ Pacific Northwest Art School: https://pacificnorthwestartschool.org/product-category/400-photography/Michael’s free Featured Frames series on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/collection/500898Northern California Council of Camera Clubs: https://n4c.org/Richard Martin: https://www.richardmartinphoto.com/Michael’s PhotoPack Pro App: https://www.photopackpro.comMichael’s Print Box Set: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/limited-edition-print-folios Ben Horne: https://www.benhorne.com/ Ernst Hass: https://ernst-haas.com/Sammy Davis Jr, I’ve Gotta Be Me: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXYndNL4Mu8Freeman Patterson: https://www.freemanpatterson.com/Ansel Adams quote: https://photographylife.com/two-people-in-every-photo-ansel-adamsJay Maisel: https://www.jaymaisel.com/ Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.comLearn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey dig into the idea of growth through limitation in nature photography. What happens when you intentionally narrow your options instead of keeping every possibility open? They talk about one-lens outings, local shooting, black and white challenges, slowing down in the field, and how removing certain choices can actually help you see more clearly. The conversation also gets into the difference between a constraint that helps you grow and one that just leaves you frustrated. If you have ever felt stuck, burned out, or too dependent on your usual habits in the field, this one may give you a few ideas to shake things up. Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Episode Highlights How a one-lens outing can help you learn to truly see in a new focal length Why local photography can become a powerful tool for growth instead of feeling limiting The difference between a helpful challenge and a frustrating restriction Thoughts on trying black and white only for 30 days as a way to train your eye How reducing gear and decisions can help break creative ruts and burnout Why slowing down in the field can improve both composition and intention Michael’s story of avoiding sunrise and sunset photography to force a different way of seeing How to choose challenges that push your photography without ruining the experience Related Links: Moterra Vans: https://alnk.to/1N5B0k5 Thomas Heaton: https://www.youtube.com/@ThomasHeatonPhoto Gavin Hardcastle (Fototripper): https://www.youtube.com/fototripper Alan Ross: https://www.alanrossphotography.com/ Ephemeral / Permanence: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/product-page/ephemeral-permanence Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey talk about nature photography hit rate, keeper rate, and whether taking fewer photos actually means you are becoming a better landscape photographer. They dig into the difference between intentional landscape photography and the old spray and pray approach, how culling photos after a trip can shape your view of success, and why a low hit rate is not always a bad thing. If you have ever wondered how many photos you should come home with, how many should be keepers, or whether your process in the field is actually helping you grow, this one is for you. This episode also gets into creative experimentation, slowing down in the field, using your phone to test compositions, revisiting old files, and why comparing your photography process to someone else usually is not very helpful. Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights What photography hit rate really means Whether a higher keeper rate actually matters The difference between intentional shooting and spray and pray Why experimentation can lower your hit rate for good reasons How Michael and Jeffrey think about culling after a trip Why revisiting old images can change what counts as a keeper Why your photography process has to work for you Related Links: Michael’s Lightroom Classic Start-to-Finish Walkthrough: https://www.patreon.com/posts/145865590 Linda Nickell’s Happiness Hour: https://www.youtube.com/@LindaNickellHappinessHour Gavin Hardcastle (Fototripper): https://www.youtube.com/fototripper Lost Dutchman State Park: https://azstateparks.com/lost-dutchman Michael’s Lightroom Compare Photos Demo: https://www.patreon.com/posts/125609814 Landscape Photographers Worldwide: https://discord.gg/GxE7HWc9 PhotoPack Pro: https://www.photopackpro.com Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.comLearn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

In Episode 22 of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey dig into one of the least glamorous but most important parts of landscape photography: planning and scouting. From pre-trip research to in-field decision-making, this episode is all about finding the balance between being prepared and staying creatively flexible. The conversation pulls from real experiences photographing in Utah, Colorado, and the Great Smoky Mountains, and explores how planning changes depending on whether you are visiting a new location or returning to a familiar one. Along the way, they talk about using weather as a creative tool, managing expectations, avoiding preconceived shots, and why scouting does not stop once you arrive. If you have ever overplanned a trip, underplanned a trip, or shown up with great intentions only to be humbled by conditions, this one is for you. Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights Why planning matters, but rigid plans can hold your photography back How pre-trip research differs for new locations versus familiar places Using weather, seasons, and conditions to guide creative decisions Managing expectations and setting realistic goals for a trip The role of scouting before and during a photography outing Avoiding preconceived images and staying open to what the landscape gives you Balancing preparation with spontaneity to stay creatively engaged Related Links: Michael’s Amazon guidebook list: https://www.amazon.com/shop/michaelrungphotography/list/2EDPL69ILQ1K7?ref_=aipsflist Cole Thompson's article on photo celibacy: https://colethompsonphotography.com/2018/03/22/photographic-celibacy-thoughts-ten-years-later/ Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.comLearn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

Is photography better kept as a passion, or does turning it into a business change the relationship entirely? In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey dig into the real-world tradeoffs between photography as a hobby and photography as a source of income. The discussion explores what monetization actually looks like for landscape photographers, why prints and education tend to be the most common paths, and how financial pressure can quietly influence creativity, subject choice, and long-term enjoyment of the craft. The episode also looks beyond gear and images to the less visible side of the business: financial readiness, safety nets, diversification of income, and the mental and emotional weight of being “always on.” Whether photography is something you love on the weekends or something you are trying to build into a career, this episode offers an honest framework for thinking through the decision with intention. Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights Hobby vs business: what it really means to monetize photography Common income paths for landscape photographers, including prints and education Why portraits and events often become the first step into paid photography The reality of saturation and competition in nature photography The hidden workload behind monetization and being constantly “on” Financial readiness beyond gear: savings, insurance, and unexpected expenses Why timing matters when considering full-time photography How monetization can influence creativity and subject choice Balancing personal passion with work that is more marketable When paid photography starts to pull energy away from what you love How teaching and selling work can deepen connection with an audience The importance of diversified income streams for long-term stability Relevant Links: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/post/struggling Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, hosts Michael and Jeffrey explore the often-overlooked power of local photography and why shooting close to home can make you a stronger, more fulfilled nature photographer. Traveling for your nature photography is inspiring and iconic, but local landscapes offer something just as valuable: repetition, familiarity, and the chance to truly learn a place. We talk about how photographing nearby locations can sharpen your skills, deepen your connection to the land, and help you stay creatively energized without constantly chasing new destinations. We also dig into the realities of balancing local and travel photography, how to work through location fatigue, and why your audience often connects just as much with meaningful local work as they do with bucket-list locations. This episode is part practical advice, part creative mindset, and part honest reflection on what keeps photography enjoyable long-term. Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights Include: Why local photography is one of the best ways to improve technical skills How familiarity with a place leads to stronger compositions and better timing The mental and creative benefits of shooting close to home Scouting and building fitness without always bringing a camera Planning vs spontaneity when working locally How to avoid burnout and location fatigue Balancing local projects with travel photography Audience reactions to iconic travel shots vs meaningful local images Relevant Links: Michael’s App: https://www.photopackpro.com 2026 Workshops: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/landscape-photography-workshops Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.comLearn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey take a candid look at imposter syndrome in photography. How it shows up, why it’s so common, and what you can actually do about it. From selling prints and filling workshops to navigating slow seasons and shifting economic realities, they unpack the pressures photographers face at every stage of their creative and business journeys. Michael and Jeffrey share personal stories, talk through the ongoing challenge of balancing healthy humility with unproductive self-doubt, and offer practical ways to manage imposter syndrome when it starts creeping in. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re “good enough,” second-guessed your portfolio, or questioned whether your work matters, then this episode is for you. And honestly? You’re far from alone. Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights Include: Exploring imposter syndrome and why it affects photographers at every level Personal updates on current projects, art fairs, and calendar printing Behind-the-scenes challenges of scheduling and running workshops Honest stories about self-doubt, validation, and the creative struggle How economic shifts impact photography businesses and marketing Finding the balance between humility and harmful self-criticism Lessons learned from teaching, mentoring, and supporting other photographers Final thoughts on building community and navigating imposter syndrome together Relevant Show Notes Links Landscape Photographers Worldwide Discord: https://discord.gg/kU8GXH6R Nature Photographer’s Network: https://www.naturephotographers.network/ Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.comLearn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, join Michael and Jeffrey as they delve into the challenges and opportunities that arise when photographing in difficult weather conditions. From harsh midday light, heavy overcast skies, rain, snow, wind, and other less-than-ideal situations, nature photographers can face it all. They discuss their personal experiences and strategies for adapting to unforeseen difficulties, and turning infield challenges into creative opportunities all while ensuring safety and comfort. This episode also covers approaches to post-processing for different types of weather, practical usage of weather apps, and the importance of situational flexibility in nature photography. Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights Include: Adapting to Tough Conditions Mindset and Flexibility Preparation and Gear for Bad Weather Editing Photos Based on Weather Conditions Midday Nature Photography Infrared Filters for Bright Sunny Days Embracing Harsh Light Dull and Overcast Conditions Weather Apps for Planning Relevant Show Notes Links Michael’s fall photos from Utah: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/shop?Locations=Utah&Seasons=Autumn Michael’s high-key processing video: https://youtu.be/7uY2JS7fcLg Jeffrey’s Five Tips for Photographing in Cold Weather Video: https://youtu.be/E97lV4Q0mCY Jeffrey’s Cold Weather Clothing Video: https://youtu.be/0TSN2Hc5Af8 Weather App - Windy - https://www.windy.com/ Weather App - Carrot - https://www.meetcarrot.com/weather/ Weather Site - https://www.weather.gov/ Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.comLearn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

In Episode 12 of Shutter Nonsense, the hosts Michael and Jeffrey discuss their favorite apps for nature photographers to help with everything from pre-trip planning to campsite discovery and field navigation. Michael and Jeffrey provide insights on essential apps such as OnX Offroad, Google Earth, Gaia GPS, Windy, and more. They also share personal experiences and tips for maximizing the use of these apps to streamline photography trips. Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights Include: Pre-trip planning applications Using Google Earth for Scouting OnX and GaiaGPS Photo Pills and Other Planning Tools Garmin Devices for Safety Batteries and Power Management Camping and Public Land Access Apps Weather Apps First Aid and Wilderness Tools Packing Lists and Trip Planning Hidden Gems Related Links onX Off-Road: https://rstr.co/onxmaps/9982 (MR’s affiliate link) onX Backcountry: https://www.onxmaps.com/backcountry/app Gaia GPS: https://www.gaiagps.com/ Photopills: https://www.photopills.com/ SunQuest: https://sunquest.app/ AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/ PeakFinder: https://www.peakfinder.com/mobile/ PeakVisor: https://peakvisor.com/ Garmin Explorer: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/614327/ iOverlander: https://ioverlander.com/ Campendium: https://www.campendium.com/ The Dyrt: https://thedyrt.com/ National Park Service: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/digital/nps-apps.htm Love’s Truck Stop: https://www.loves.com/my-love-rewards/loves-connect-app Windy: https://windy.app/ Weather Underground: https://www.wunderground.com/download Carrot Weather: https://www.meetcarrot.com/weather/ Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/mobile-apps Seek by iNaturalist: https://www.inaturalist.org/pages/seek_app Merlin Bird ID: https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/download/ Anker phone vent mount: https://amzn.to/3V2qPpg (MR’s affiliate link) Josh Cripps’ solar eclipse video: https://www.photopills.com/videos/annular-solar-eclipse-photography-masterclass-joshua-cripps Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

In this milestone episode (Episode 10!!!) of Shutter Nonsense, we explore the evolution of post-processing techniques and style with our special guest, Murray Livingston. The discussion covers how our approaches to editing have changed over time, the merits of JPEG vs. RAW, black and white versus color photography, post-processing techniques, the importance of intentionality in editing, and more! Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights Include: JPEG vs. RAW Moving from Black and White to Color Photography Post-processing Techniques and Tools Global vs. Local Edits Iterative Editing Process Common Editing Mistakes Lightroom vs. Photoshop Editing for Emotion Cultural Influences on Editing Styles Relevant Links: Murray Livingston’s Website: https://www.murraylivingston.com/ Benjamin Maze’s Website: https://www.benmazefineart.com/ Ansel Adam's Moonrise, Hernandez: https://articles.anseladams.com/a-legend-in-light/ Michael Rung’s Tone Curve Video: https://youtu.be/-5PFtuiaamw?si=w5Yy9sm0MpQVoetH Michael Rung’s Lightroom Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL01LlWklGi3Hg-NmUcJqSvtzfDcVrF-8h&si=aSnYk0LyLz3dIpDH Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

In this episode, Michael and Jeffrey dive deep into the world of photo contests with special guest Matt Payne, host of the 'F-Stop, Collaborate and Listen' podcast and co-founder of the Natural Landscape Photography Awards (NLPA). The discussion covers the intricacies of entering photo contests, common pitfalls, and managing expectations. The trio also touches on the importance of preserving the realism in landscape photography, along with some behind-the-scenes insights into the judging process of the NLPA. Matt also shares exciting details about his upcoming photography book, 'The Colorado Way,' blending personal essays, stunning imagery, and insights from his 500-mile through hike in Colorado. Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights Include: Surprise Guest - Matt Payne Matt’s Latest Project: The Colorado Way Entering Photo Competitions NLPA and Its Origins NLPA Books and Their Value Common Oversights in Photography Considerations for Entering Competitions Ethics and Rules Diversity and Inclusion in Competitions Relevant Links: Natural Landscape Photography Awards: https://naturallandscapeawards.com/ Matt Payne’s Website: https://www.mattpaynephotography.com/ Should You Enter Photography Competitions: https://www.mattpaynephotography.com/gallery/should-you-enter-photography-competitions/ F-Stop Collaborate and Listen Podcast: https://www.mattpaynephotography.com/page/f-stop-collaborate-and-listen/ Matt’s Kickstarter for The Colorado Way: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mattpaynephoto/the-colorado-way-a-book-of-mountains-trails-and-growth Wayne Sugg’s Website: https://www.waynesuggsphotography.com/ International Landscape Photographer Awards Website: https://www.internationallandscapephotographer.com/ Deliberate Consumption of Photography Books (NLPA Book Mentioned): https://youtu.be/EGF8xpD_o04 Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

In this episode, Michael and Jeffrey discuss everything you need to know about car camping. They cover topics such as setting up your vehicle, safety tips, essential gear, and personal experiences. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned adventurers, this episode explores the intricacies of transforming your vehicle into a comfortable, efficient, and safe adventure home. Join the conversation, get practical tips, and explore the world of car camping! Join the Shutter Nonsense Patreon community to participate in post-episode conversations and share your own photography experiences! Available to free and paid members. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights include: Car Camping Lifestyle Current Car Camping Setups Essential Gear Power Solutions Hygiene Tips for Long Trips Safety and Security Awnings Rooftop Tents vs. Sleeping in the Vehicle Entertainment Options Relevant Show Notes Links Michael’s 4Runner gear list + sleeping platform guide: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/post/4runner-car-camping-build Michael’s 4Runner walkthrough: https://youtu.be/coE_3kpf29c Michael’s car camping Amazon store page: https://tinyurl.com/5adpx9zz Jeffrey’s 4Runner walkthrough: https://youtu.be/kOuH2T6u6B4 Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com