Crafting Award-Winning Portraits with THERESE ASPLUND - Episode 287

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, portrait photographer Therese Asplund joins me to talk about the creative process behind her award-winning portrait photography. We explore how she builds trust with her subjects, shapes emotion through lighting, and develops concepts that result in powerful, memorable images. Whether you’re an amateur photographer, a seasoned pro, or someone building a photography business, Therese’s approach offers practical insights you can apply immediately.We also dive into the importance of intention in portraiture, how to refine your signature style, and what it really takes to create portraits that stand out—both artistically and in competitions. If you’re interested in fine art photography, studio lighting, posing, or the craft of visual storytelling, this conversation is full of inspiration.🎧 Watch more episodes of The Camera Shake Podcast for behind-the-lens stories and real-world advice on photography, videography, and the creative industry.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay ahead in your photographic journey.New episodes every Thursday.#photography #portraitphotography #ThereseAsplund #CameraShakePodcast******************************************************************SUPPORT THE PODCAST: www.buymeacoffee.com/camerashake******************************************************************JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com******************************************************************Check out our sponsor: www.platypod.com******************************************************************THIS WEEK’S LINKS:Therese Asplund on the web:https://thereseasplund.comTherese Asplund on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067331455299Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photographerthereseasplund/JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com======================================CAMERA SHAKE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE:https://www.youtube.com/camerashakeFULL EPISODE 287 ‘Crafting Award-Winning Portraits with THERESE ASPLUND’ IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON: YouTube -https://youtu.be/abzZS3EqF9QApple Podcasts - https://apple.co/2Y2LmfmSpotify - https://spoti.fi/304sm2G FOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, we sit down with internationally renowned photographer and educator Serge Ramelli to explore how he creates bold, cinematic cityscapes that feel straight out of a movie scene. Serge breaks down why patience and persistence matter more than gear, how returning to the same location dozens of times unlocks extraordinary light, and what photographers should focus on to elevate their city work.We also dive into the evolving world of AI, colour grading, composition, and urban storytelling, giving photographers at every level practical insights they can immediately apply. Whether you're starting your photography journey, building a portfolio, or running a creative business, this conversation is packed with ideas that will help sharpen your craft.If you're into cityscape photography, videography, editing, lighting, or the photography business, you won’t want to miss this one.Hit subscribe to join the Shake Squad and explore more interviews with the world’s most inspiring photographers and filmmakers.🎧 Watch more episodes of The Camera Shake Podcast for behind-the-lens stories and real-world advice on photography, videography, and the creative industry.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay ahead in your photographic journey.New episodes every Thursday.#photography #cityscapephotography #sergeramelli #CameraShakePodcast******************************************************************SUPPORT THE PODCAST: www.buymeacoffee.com/camerashake******************************************************************JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com******************************************************************Check out our sponsor: www.platypod.com******************************************************************THIS WEEK’S LINKS:Serge Ramelli on the web:https://sergeramelliphotos.com/https://www.photo-serge.com/Serge Ramelli on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GDHPhotographyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/photoserge/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SergeRamelliPhotographyJOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com======================================CAMERA SHAKE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE:https://www.youtube.com/camerashakeFULL EPISODE 286 ‘How to Shoot Cinematic Cityscapes with SERGE RAMELLI’ IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON: YouTube - https://youtu.be/8BRZcXVh-L8Apple Podcasts - https://apple.co/2Y2LmfmSpotify - https://spoti.fi/304sm2G FOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/

In this episode of the Camera Shake Podcast, I sit down with Emma Finch and Graham Currey, the creative team behind Session Days — one of the UK’s most exciting and influential photography event companies.Session Days is known for its cinematic locations, character-driven storytelling, and fast-paced shooting experience. It’s where photographers of all levels can create competition-ready images, learn new lighting techniques, and leave with a portfolio that truly stands out.In this conversation, Emma and Graham break down:• how they design their shoots to give photographers extraordinary results fast• what makes a portrait “portfolio ready”• how character, location, lighting and direction come together at Session Days• tips for improving your posing, storytelling and visual style• the secret sauce behind creating award-winning portraits• the unexpected challenges of running large-scale creative eventsWhether you’re a working professional, an enthusiast looking to level up, or someone wanting to add more creative energy to your photography, this episode offers real, actionable insight.Want to improve your portrait portfolio?This is where you start.👉 SUBSCRIBE for more interviews with top creators, photographers and educators.🎧 Watch more episodes of The Camera Shake Podcast for behind-the-lens stories and real-world advice on photography, videography, and the creative industry.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay ahead in your photographic journey.New episodes every Thursday.#photography #portraitphotography  #EmmaFinch #CameraShakePodcast******************************************************************SUPPORT THE PODCAST: www.buymeacoffee.com/camerashake******************************************************************JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com******************************************************************Check out our sponsor: www.platypod.com******************************************************************THIS WEEK’S LINKS:Emma Finch & Session Days on the web:https://sessiondays.co.ukhttps://www.emmafinchphotography.co.ukEmma Finch & Session Days on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhotographySessionDays/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photographysessiondaysJOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com======================================CAMERA SHAKE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE:https://www.youtube.com/camerashakeFULL EPISODE 285 ‘How to Build a Killer Portrait Portfolio in One Day – With Session Days’ IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON: YouTube - https://youtu.be/VeTehJ27XAEApple Podcasts - https://apple.co/2Y2LmfmSpotify - https://spoti.fi/304sm2G FOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/

In this episode of the Camera Shake Podcast, Kersten chats with Carl van den Boom, CEO and co-founder of Vallerret Photography Gloves, to uncover how a cold-weather frustration turned into one of the most trusted brands in outdoor photography. Carl shares the early days of sketching and prototyping, the design challenges behind making gloves specifically for photographers, and the process of growing a niche product into a global business.This conversation blends photography, creativity, and entrepreneurship—perfect for anyone looking to build a photography business, refine their craft, or simply get inspired by a founder who carved out his own lane in the industry. From business lessons to creative focus, Carl gives a refreshingly honest look at what it takes to turn an idea into a company photographers rely on.🎧 Watch more episodes of The Camera Shake Podcast for behind-the-lens stories and real-world advice on photography, videography, and the creative industry.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay ahead in your photographic journey.New episodes every Thursday.#photography #Vallerret  #CameraShakePodcast******************************************************************SUPPORT THE PODCAST: www.buymeacoffee.com/camerashake******************************************************************JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com******************************************************************Check out our sponsor: www.platypod.com******************************************************************THIS WEEK’S LINKS:Vallerret on the web:https://photographygloves.comVallerret  on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vallerret?checkpoint_src=anyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vallerret/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTjtV4m2oAEWhWvLyE53dgwJOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com======================================CAMERA SHAKE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE:https://www.youtube.com/camerashakeFULL EPISODE 284 ‘How Vallerret Became the Go-To Glove Brand for Photographers with Carl van den Boom’ IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON: YouTube - https://youtu.be/eD5JcgGrccAApple Podcasts - https://apple.co/2Y2LmfmSpotify - https://spoti.fi/304sm2G FOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/

In this episode of The Camera Shake Podcast, we dive inside the art of portrait photography with renowned photographer Gary Hill. This conversation breaks down how to approach lighting, posing, and working with real people in a way that feels natural, confident, and authentic.Gary shares his process for shaping light to suit different face types, adapting setups on the fly, and building a connection that helps clients relax in front of the camera. We explore everything from portrait fundamentals to creative experimentation, along with the practical realities of working in a studio and running a photography business.Whether you're an amateur photographer, a working portrait professional, or someone building a photography business, you'll find plenty of insights you can apply on your very next shoot—from refining your lighting ratios to directing your subjects with clarity and ease.If you enjoy conversations that make you think differently about your craft, hit subscribe and check out more episodes featuring leading photographers, educators, and creatives from around the world.🎧 Watch more episodes of The Camera Shake Podcast for behind-the-lens stories and real-world advice on photography, videography, and the creative industry.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay ahead in your photographic journey.New episodes every Thursday.#photography #portraitphotography  #GaryHill #CameraShakePodcast******************************************************************SUPPORT THE PODCAST: www.buymeacoffee.com/camerashake******************************************************************JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com******************************************************************Check out our sponsor: www.platypod.com******************************************************************THIS WEEK’S LINKS:Gary Hill on the web:https://www.artoftheportrait.co.ukGary Hill on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GDHPhotographyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GDHPhotoInstagram: @artoftheportraitJOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com======================================CAMERA SHAKE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE:https://www.youtube.com/camerashakeFULL EPISODE 283 ‘Inside the Art of Portrait Photography with GARY HILL’ IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON: YouTube - https://youtu.be/grsfMv_2RksApple Podcasts - https://apple.co/2Y2LmfmSpotify - https://spoti.fi/304sm2G======================================FOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/ FOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/

Photographer Andy McSweeney joins me on The Camera Shake Podcast to talk about his latest book Reflections of Flow — a visual and philosophical journey through light, water, and glass. In this inspiring conversation, Andy shares how reflections can become powerful storytelling tools, helping photographers see the world differently and find their own creative rhythm.We explore his process for capturing moments in the streets of Bruges, the patience behind waiting for the right light, and how to turn a personal project into a professional body of work. Andy also opens up about publishing Reflections, offering practical advice for photographers considering their first photo-book.If you’re passionate about photography, creativity, or the business of turning your art into something tangible, this episode is for you.🎧 Watch more episodes of The Camera Shake Podcast for behind-the-lens stories and real-world advice on photography, videography, and the creative industry.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay ahead in your photographic journey.New episodes every Thursday.#photography #Streetphotography #AndyMcSweeney #CameraShakePodcast******************************************************************SUPPORT THE PODCAST: www.buymeacoffee.com/camerashake******************************************************************JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com******************************************************************Check out our sponsor: www.platypod.com******************************************************************THIS WEEK’S LINKS:Andy’s book ‘Reflections of Flow’ is available here:https://shorturl.at/EzTgsAndy McSweeney on the web:https://www.phototourbrugge.comAndy McSweeney on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhotoTourBruggeJOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com======================================CAMERA SHAKE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE:https://www.youtube.com/camerashakeFULL EPISODE 282 ‘Unlocking Creative Vision Through Reflections with ANDY McSWEENEY’ IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON: YouTube - https://youtu.be/Iq0ZiXO1QtoApple Podcasts - https://apple.co/2Y2LmfmSpotify - https://spoti.fi/304sm2G FOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/

What does it mean to see like a street photographer? In this inspiring conversation, host Kersten Luts talks with renowned street photographer Nina Welch-Kling about how vision, intuition, and curiosity shape compelling street images. From her exhibitions in Germany to her walks through New York, Nina reveals how observation, patience, and emotional awareness help her find beauty in the everyday.Whether you’re an amateur photographer learning composition, a professional refining your creative process, or someone exploring the business of photography, you’ll gain valuable insight into connecting with your environment and subjects.🎧 Watch more episodes of The Camera Shake Podcast for behind-the-lens stories and real-world advice on photography, videography, and the creative industry.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to stay ahead in your photographic journey.New episodes every Thursday.#photography #Streetphotography #NinaWelch-Kling #CameraShakePodcast******************************************************************SUPPORT THE PODCAST: www.buymeacoffee.com/camerashake******************************************************************JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com******************************************************************Check out our sponsor: www.platypod.com******************************************************************THIS WEEK’S LINKS:Nina’s book ‘Duologues’ available here:https://amzn.to/3VEQdAchttps://www.ninaklingphotography.com/Nina Welch-Kling on the web:https://www.ninaklingphotography.com/Nina Welch-Kling on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ninakling/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nina.w.klingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanie-simon-media/JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com======================================CAMERA SHAKE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE:https://www.youtube.com/camerashakeFULL EPISODE 281 ‘How to See Like a Street Photographer with NINA WELCH-KLING’ IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON: YouTube - https://youtu.be/CEO0ieyy5k0Apple Podcasts - https://apple.co/2Y2LmfmSpotify - https://spoti.fi/304sm2G======================================FOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/ FOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/

Step into the vibrant world of fashion and portrait photography with award-winning photographer Lenworth Johnson in this inspiring episode of The Camera Shake Podcast. Known for his stunning beauty and fashion imagery, Lenworth shares his creative journey from graphic design to becoming one of today’s most sought-after storytellers behind the lens.In this conversation, we dive into the art of storytelling through photography — exploring how emotion, light, and human connection bring images to life. Lenworth discusses the importance of diversity and representation in modern fashion, his approach to directing models, and what it takes to stand out in a competitive industry.Whether you’re a professional photographer, a student of visual arts, or simply passionate about creativity, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and practical advice from one of the best in the business.🎧 Subscribe to The Camera Shake Podcast for more interviews with leading photographers and creatives worldwide.New episodes every Thursday.#photography #LenworthJohnson #CameraShakePodcast******************************************************************SUPPORT THE PODCAST: www.buymeacoffee.com/camerashake******************************************************************JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com******************************************************************Check out our sponsor: www.platypod.com******************************************************************THIS WEEK’S LINKS:Lenworth Johnson on the web:https://lenworthjohnson.comLenworth Johnson on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lenworth.johnsonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lenworth.johnson/JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com FOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/

Is the camera store dead in 2025? Not if you ask Stewart Leigh-Firbank from Camera Centre UK. In this episode, we explore how a family-run camera business is thriving in the age of online shopping by focusing on community, education, and authentic connection.Stewart shares how events like the Wales & West Photography Show help build lasting relationships with customers, why the film photography comeback is bringing younger shooters back through the doors, and how honest, creator-driven YouTube content drives real engagement and trust. We also dig into DSLR vs mirrorless, the value of hands-on experiences, and what the future of photography retail looks like when done right.If you’re passionate about photography, videography, or the photography business, this episode gives you real-world lessons on content marketing, customer experience, and retail evolution in today’s creative economy.👉 Subscribe for more weekly episodes covering Photoshop, photography, creative business, and the future of imaging.New episodes every Thursday.#photography #CameraCentre #CameraShakePodcast******************************************************************SUPPORT THE PODCAST: www.buymeacoffee.com/camerashake******************************************************************JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com******************************************************************Check out our sponsor: www.platypod.com******************************************************************THIS WEEK’S LINKS:Camera Centre UK on the web:https://www.cameracentreuk.comCamera Centre UK on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cameracentreuk/X: https://x.com/CameraCentreUKInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cameracentreuk/JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com======================================CAMERA SHAKE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE:https://www.youtube.com/camerashakeFULL EPISODE 279 ‘How a Family Camera Store Proves Photography Retail Isn’t Dead with STEWART LEIGH-FIRBANK’ IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON: YouTube - https://youtu.be/MtqVJ_n4cNQApple Podcasts - https://apple.co/2Y2LmfmSpotify - https://spoti.fi/304sm2G FOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/

We hit the show floor at the Click Live Lite Expo in Milton Keynes to bring you genuine conversations with the people shaping photography today. Join host Kersten Luts as he chats with Scott Johnson, Ivan Duran, Mathew Browne, Emma Finch & Graham Currey from Session Days, Marcus Swales from Holdan, and Ian Martindale from Light Blue.In this special episode, we dive into the business of photography — from studio management and CRM workflows to marketing strategies, gear insights, and finding the balance between creativity and profitability. Whether you’re a portrait, wedding, or commercial photographer, you’ll find practical takeaways and inspiration from these creators and industry experts. Featured Guests & Links:Click Live Expohttps://clickliveexpo.co.uk🔹 Scott Johnson – www.theedgephotography.co.uk🔹 Ivan Duran – www.ivanduranphotography.com🔹 Mathew Browne – www.skylum.com, www.photohound.co🔹 Emma Finch & Graham Currey – www.sessiondays.co.uk🔹 Marcus Swales – www.holdan.co.uk🔹 Ian Martindale – www.lightbluesoftware.com🎧 Listen on all platforms or watch the full video here.☕ Support the show: BuyMeACoffee.com/camerashake📬 Sign up for updates: www.camerashakepodcast.comNew episodes every Thursday.#photography #CameraShakePodcast******************************************************************SUPPORT THE PODCAST: www.buymeacoffee.com/camerashake******************************************************************JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com******************************************************************Check out our sponsor: www.platypod.com******************************************************************JOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY for the latest news and some behind the scenes insights:  www.camerashakepodcast.com======================================CAMERA SHAKE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE:https://www.youtube.com/camerashakeFULL EPISODE 278 ‘Live from Click Live Lite – Real Talk with Creators & Brands!’ IS ALSO AVAILABLE ON:YouTube - https://youtu.be/LPPTUa3UmxgApple Podcasts - https://apple.co/2Y2LmfmSpotify - https://spoti.fi/304sm2G FOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/