Photo Q&A: Why Do My Photos Look Different on My Camera vs. Lightroom?

#581 Shane Balkowitsch is a dedicated wet plate collodion photographer whose passion for history, authenticity, and the human experience shapes both his artwork and his views on the future of photography. In this episode, Shane shares the journey that led him from having no experience with a camera to mastering one of photography’s oldest analog processes—a craft involving silver on glass that dates back to 1851. He highlights how the permanence and tangible nature of wet plate images, created through capturing real light and human presence, starkly contrast with the ephemeral, intangible nature of digital and AI-generated images.KEY TOPICS COVEREDDefining Photography in the Age of AI - Shane and Raymond dissect the core of what makes an image a "photograph," highlighting the necessity of light, a subject, and a photosensitive medium or sensor. They underscore the risk of confusing AI-based image generation—which lacks these elements—with authentic photography, causing potential chaos in art, media, and historical documentation.Ethics, Ownership, and Historical Accuracy - Shane raises significant ethical concerns about AI training on billions of images without permission, including his own work, and questions who owns the resulting visuals. He warns about the dangers this presents to historical accuracy, imagining future scenarios where AI-generated portraits of people who never existed could mislead researchers or the public, blurring the line between fact and fiction.Terminology, Transparency, and the Future of Art - Shane advocates for distinct labeling of AI-generated imagery—suggesting terms like "promptography"—to prevent confusion and uphold the integrity of photography. He stresses the need for transparency so viewers know whether an image is a genuine photograph or an AI creation, believing that honesty and accurate terminology are essential as technology continues to evolve.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSWet Plate Collodion Photography: An early analog photographic process invented in 1851, involving capturing images on glass plates coated with chemicals sensitive to light. Shane’s work in this medium exemplifies photography’s physical, archival, and intentional qualities.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSWhat makes an image a photograph, and why does this distinction matter when considering AI-generated content?Should AI-generated images be considered art? If so, who holds the authorship—the prompt user or the AI?How might the widespread adoption of AI imagery change the way we perceive, document, or trust history?RESOURCES:Visit Shane Balkowitsch's Website - https://nostalgicglasswetplatestudio.zenfolio.com/Follow Shane Balkowitsch on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/balkowitsch/Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#580 In Today’s Episode of the podcast I chat with YOU as I tackle listener-submitted questions for our monthly Photo Q&A session. We cover a variety of challenges that many beginner photographers run into—from understanding the difference between RAW and JPEG files, managing noise in corporate event shots, to building a strong portfolio through strategic “model calls.” I’ll also share practical insights on why your photos might look different across devices or editing programs, when to use settings like aperture priority or manual mode, and how to set up and communicate a successful portfolio shoot. Plus, we’ll get into deeper topics like how to price your work as a new photographer and whether AI editing tools are changing the value of getting things right in-camera. KEY TOPICS COVEREDRAW vs. JPEG & Display Differences - Raymond explains why photos often appear different on camera screens or phones compared to Lightroom. He outlines the technical reasons, including how cameras display a JPEG preview even for RAW shots, and how monitor quality and calibration affect perceived color and contrast. He demystifies RAW editing and encourages beginners to experiment with JPEGs if extensive editing isn’t required.Shooting Busy Events & Managing Noise - Responding to a question on noisy corporate event shots, Hatfield stresses the relationship between noise, ISO, and light quality. He recommends using manual mode for full ISO control and explains the importance of understanding light “quality vs. quantity” rather than relying solely on semi-automatic modes like aperture priority.Model Calls & Portfolio Building - Practical guidance is given for running a “model call” to expand one’s portfolio. Raymond highlights where and how to recruit volunteer models (or clients), setting clear expectations, the value exchange, and strategies to ensure you’re showcasing desired styles or filling portfolio gaps.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSRAW (Image Format): An unprocessed file that retains all data captured, offering maximum flexibility for editing, though often appearing flat until processed.Model Call: A public invitation (often via social media) for volunteers to participate in portfolio shoots, typically in exchange for free or discounted images.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSConsidering your current portfolio, what “gaps” could you fill with targeted model calls?How does understanding RAW vs. JPEG workflows shape your approach to in-camera settings and post-processing?Reflect on your pricing strategy: What personal factors (time, opportunity cost) might you consider before setting rates?Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#579 Zenia Monteagudo is an experienced music and event photographer who has recently begun exploring family portraiture. Zenia shares her personalized journey into photography, starting from her early fascination with disposable and point-and-shoot cameras to a pivotal moment when she purchased a Sony camera on clearance at Target. This chance purchase set her on an unexpected path, leading to opportunities in music photography, including shooting concerts at iconic venues like Red Rocks.KEY TOPICS COVEREDStarting a Photography Journey & Building Confidence - Zenia’s chance transition from hobbyist to semi-professional highlights the role of curiosity and saying "yes" to new experiences, even without a portfolio. Building confidence can be a struggle, but validation from others—such as bands requesting to use her photos—provided the encouragement to pursue her passion professionally.Concert Photography: Skills, Challenges, and Opportunities - Zenia offers a frank look at shooting concerts, from initial “shot in the dark” gigs to handling pro gear, unpredictable lighting, and the high-energy atmosphere of music events. She emphasizes the need for adaptability, technical growth (moving from kit lenses and manual focus to more sophisticated equipment), and the thrill of capturing authentic moments.Transitioning Between Genres & The Power of Candid Photography - The episode contrasts concert photography with family portraiture and events, exploring Zenia’s process as she adapts to settings with different expectations, emotion levels, and technical requirements. Her candid approach, focused on real moments over posed photos, remains consistent.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSPhoto Pass: Special permission or credentials granted (often by a venue or band) allowing a photographer to access areas for professional photography, particularly in concert settings. It often requires a portfolio and/or assignment from a publication.Candid Photography: A style of photography where subjects are captured naturally, without posed arrangements or direct awareness of the camera. This approach centers on authenticity, emotion, and storytelling.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSWhat opportunities can arise from saying "yes" to experiences outside your comfort zone as a photographer?How does photographing candid moments at events or concerts build storytelling skills in photography?In what ways does the environment (concert, event, family session) influence the techniques and mindset you bring as a photographer?RESOURCES:Follow Zenia Monteagudo on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/zen_e_ah_/Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#578 In this episode of the podcast, I deliver a thoughtful exploration into the emotional and psychological aspects that underlie the pursuit of photography. I dissect the difference between being infatuated with photography—often characterized by a focus on gear, novelty, and aesthetics (“lust”)—and a mature, enduring engagement with the craft, marked by sustained commitment and personal growth (“love”). Throughout the episode, I draw parallels between our relationships with people and with photography, making the argument that both require effort, patience, and vulnerability for genuine fulfillment. KEY TOPICS COVEREDLust vs Love in Photography - Raymond defines “lust” as the excitement for gear, newness, and surface-level satisfaction (like shooting shallow depth-of-field because you can), and contrasts this with “love,” which involves accepting photography’s frustrations, dedicating time to growth, and valuing the process.Overcoming Frustration and the Importance of Perseverance - The episode examines how photographers often feel discouraged when their skills or tools do not match their ambitions. Raymond stresses that this stage is not a signal to quit, but rather an invitation to invest more time, effort, and patience—transitioning from surface-level excitement to genuine artistic fulfillment.Concrete Methods to Deepen Engagement - Raymond provides actionable steps: carrying your camera everywhere, printing photographs, expressing gratitude for your camera through written reflection, and reading the camera’s manual thoroughly. These measures are designed to foster understanding, comfort, and growth—the core elements of a true “love” for the craft.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSThink back—what first attracted you to photography? How have your motivations evolved?Can you identify moments when photography felt like a chore? What helped you push through?What is one way you can spend more “quality time” with your camera this week?RESOURCES:Check out the Canon Selphy Printer - Affordable home photo printer for bringing digital photos to life.Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#577 Shane Wilkie is a community member who has made impressive strides in sports, event, and commercial photography since his last appearance. The discussion centers around building confidence as a photographer, the evolution of photographic style, and how personal projects can drive both skill and personal growth. He discusses his experiences building a portfolio, including how trading photography for accommodations with Airbnb hosts opened doors to paid commercial work. Shane also delves into tackling nerves while photographing people, the differences between event and action sports photography, and how personal projects—particularly those connected to his personal history—help him process and express complex emotions.KEY TOPICS COVEREDBuilding Confidence and Portfolio Through Experience and Trade - Shane explains his strategy for gaining experience—offering his photography services to Airbnb hosts and local businesses in exchange for accommodations or meals. This approach allowed him to experiment with styles, build a diverse portfolio, and transition into paid commercial work, while ensuring creative freedom to try new techniques.Expressing Emotion and Storytelling in Photography - The conversation explores how to move beyond technically good images to ones that evoke emotion and tell stories. Shane shares insights on making images relatable, using techniques like an intervalometer for candid shots, and always aiming to capture genuine moments that let viewers envision themselves in the scene.Personal Projects and Growth as a Photographer - Shane discusses the impact of tackling personal photo projects, especially those rooted in personal history and emotion. He details his process in planning, sequencing, and critiquing a long-term project about growing up, adoption, and finding outlets like skateboarding and photography to process emotions. This segment highlights the therapeutic and artistic significance of personal work outside client assignments.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSPortfolio-Building Trade: Exchanging photography services for goods or experiences (e.g., a night’s stay at an Airbnb) instead of cash. This strategy empowers photographers to build their portfolio with less pressure, experiment, and network with future paying clients.Intervalometer: A device or camera feature that enables timed, repeated exposures. In Shane’s workflow, using an intervalometer lets him capture authentic, non-posed moments during self-portraits or lifestyle shoots, contributing to a natural, polished final image.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can trading photography services be a valuable step for beginners looking to grow both skill and portfolio?What techniques or approaches can help photographers build confidence—especially when photographing strangers or in crowded settings?RESOURCES:Visit Shane Wilkie's Website - https://www.shanewilkie.com/Follow Shane Wilkie on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/shanewilkie/Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#576 Taylor Isselhard is a full-time wedding photographer and the host of the Wedding Lens Lounge podcast. As a professional who successfully transitioned from part-time to full-time photography, Taylor offers an in-depth perspective on the critical steps required for building a sustainable photography business.A significant theme in his career is the disciplined approach to business growth. Relying on his background in business, Taylor underscores the importance of thorough preparation before leaving stable employment. This includes maintaining a clear understanding of financial needs, forecasting bookings, setting aside an emergency fund, and only making the leap once the business demonstrates consistent demand and stability.KEY TOPICS COVEREDTransitioning to Full-Time Photography - Taylor describes how he built up his business gradually, shooting weddings part-time for six years and only going full-time once he reached a threshold of consistent bookings and had established key systems and savings.The Power of Client Experience and Networking - Taylor attributes much of his rapid growth to the positive client experience he provided and the word-of-mouth referrals it generated. He emphasizes the importance of networking with vendors, tagging them on social media, and intentionally nurturing relationships in the wedding industry to gain referrals and increase visibility.Systems, Workflow, and Work-Life Balance - Taylor discusses the practical systems he implemented for client management (like HoneyBook CRM), planning his work week, and balancing business with family life. He outlines his method for blocking off time, using spreadsheets for goal setting, and the importance of beginning with the end in mind—setting long-term goals and breaking them down into actionable steps.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSCRM (Customer Relationship Management): A software tool (like HoneyBook) used to manage client interactions, contracts, invoices, and communications in an organized, professional manner—critical for scaling and streamlining a photography business.Begin with the End in Mind: A strategic planning principle (from “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”) involving setting clear, long-term business goals and then mapping out the milestones and actions needed to achieve them.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSWhat fears or obstacles do you face in considering a transition to full-time photography, and how could Taylor’s experience inform your approach?How can building client relationships and networking with vendors be integrated into your workflow?What current systems (or lack thereof) are holding you back from scaling your business and achieving balance?RESOURCES:Visit Taylor Isselhard's Website - https://tpiphotography.com/Follow Taylor Isselhard on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tpi_photography/Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#575 Sandra Coan is a seasoned film photographer from Seattle with two decades of experience in newborn, family, and classic portraiture. Sandra shares her inspiring journey—how she turned a creative passion into a thriving business, the challenges of building a successful brand, and the importance of letting your authentic style shine. As you listen, you’ll learn how to define what makes your photography truly unique, why focusing on what brings you joy can fuel both your growth and client satisfaction, and concrete steps for aligning your artistic voice with your business. Take Sandra’s wisdom and start building a brand that’s unmistakably yours.KEY TOPICS COVEREDThe True Nature of Branding - Sandra explains that branding is not just visual identity (logos, colors, fonts), but the entirety of how your work, personality, voice, and client experience come together. Strong branding makes your photos instantly recognizable and helps build trust and authority with clients.Finding Your Unique Voice & Overcoming Comparison - The episode explores the challenges of staying true to your vision in a crowded industry and the pitfalls of copying trends. Sandra urges listeners to focus on what brings joy, to avoid unhealthy comparison, and to bravely lean into their unique point of view as artists.Business Growth through Authenticity and Consistency - Real-world examples illustrate how Sandra’s success grew once she committed to her personal passion—classic portraiture—and learned core business and marketing principles. A strong, consistent brand not only builds trust but also justifies higher prices and client loyalty.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSBranding: More than just a logo or color scheme; it’s the complete representation of your business, including your style, voice, client experience, and consistent execution (episode context: stands out in a crowded markeComparison Trap: The tendency to measure your own success or worth against others, which often undermines creativity and confidence.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSWhat is your unique artistic perspective, and how do you communicate it in your portfolio and messaging?If branding is more than visuals, what are small changes you could make today to present a more authentic brand experience?When have you found yourself comparing your work to others, and what strategies could help redirect that energy?RESOURCES:Visit Sandra Coan's Website - https://www.sandracoan.com/Follow Sandra Coan on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sandracoan/Sandra Coan’s Educational Platform - https://www.sandracoaneducation.com/Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#574 In this episode of the podcast, I got brutally honest about an uncomfortable truth many photographers—myself included—often avoid: believing new gear will instantly make us better photographers. I dove into why so many of us, at some point, fixate on the idea that lack of equipment stands between us and the images we want to create. Drawing from my own experiences—like nearly convincing myself to buy a $7,500 Fujifilm GFX100 medium format camera after I left wedding photography—I shared how easy it is to fall into the "gear will fix it" trap, when what I really needed was to spend more time shooting.I challenged listeners (and myself) to rekindle excitement by using the equipment we already own. Whether that’s taking a “camera date” or giving ourselves quirky creative assignments, the goal is to reconnect with the fun and freedom of shooting—without the pressure of perfection or the itch for an upgrade.KEY TOPICS COVEREDThe Gear Myth and Creative Ruts - Raymond explains how photographers often blame their uninspiring work on having outdated or entry-level gear. He shares his own experience almost buying an expensive Fujifilm GFX100, only to realize his creative rut was due to not shooting, not his equipment.What Really Makes a Great Photo? - Instead of megapixels and advanced specs, Raymond outlines the four essential elements of great photography: moment, light, composition, and exposure. He likens the camera to a toaster—it’s the photographer’s decisions that determine the quality of the image.Practical Steps for Rekindling Creativity - To break out of gear-focused thinking, Raymond suggests simple exercises like going on a “camera date” with the least-used gear or imposing creative constraints. He also stresses the value of learning manual mode and studying light and composition.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTS• Gear Acquisition Syndrome (GAS): The compulsion to buy new cameras or lenses as a solution to creative blocks or skill limitations; often a distraction from the real means of improvement.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSThink back to your favorite photo you’ve taken—what role did your gear actually play in the outcome?Have you ever felt creatively stagnant and blamed your equipment? What actions could you take instead?What are some ways you can challenge yourself to see new possibilities with the gear you already own?Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#573 Jim Sinicki is a longtime and active member of the podcast’s Facebook group. The episode explores Jim’s personal photography journey, beginning with what initially inspired him and carrying through his transition from enthusiast to business owner and creative community contributor. Listeners will gain insights into how Jim found inspiration by witnessing another photographer’s vibrant depiction of Milwaukee—a perspective that reignited his love for his hometown and drove him to create meaningful images. KEY TOPICS COVEREDInspiration & Starting Out - Jim shares how discovering Martin Moore’s photography changed his view of Milwaukee and motivated him to pick up a camera. He discusses the emotional and nostalgic appeal of recreating positive memories from his childhood, which underpinned his drive to document his city and, later, his family.Learning, Community, and Overcoming Failure - The importance of the Beginner Photography Podcast’s Facebook community is highlighted as Jim explains how accessible, judgment-free support enabled his progress. This section underscores the value of asking questions, sharing failures, and persistent practice. Jim describes the moment when technical concepts finally “clicked” for him, thanks to an episode on the exposure triangle, and the encouragement to seek help when needed.Building a Photography Business & Personal Connection - Jim reflects on transitioning from hobbyist to business owner (Charlie James Photo), emphasizing the value of genuine client relationships and documenting real-life moments. He speaks about focusing on family and senior photography, the challenges of balancing professional and family life, and the power of word-of-mouth marketing in local communities.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSHistogram: A graphical representation of the tonal values in an image, which helps photographers assess exposure and make accurate adjustments. Understanding the histogram allowed Jim to improve his images, especially with his camera upgrade.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow does being part of a supportive community influence a photographer’s growth and confidence?What are some healthy ways to process and learn from creative failures?Why is vulnerability important for building relationships both with clients and fellow photographers?How can documenting everyday moments shape memories and family history?RESOURCES:Visit Jim Sinicki's Website - https://www.charliejamesphoto.com/Follow Jim Sinicki on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/charlie_james_photo/Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!

#572 In this episode of the podcast, I talk about what it really means to capture summer memories as a beginner photographer. As a parent with two kids on summer break, I know how chaotic this season can get—plans change, weather interrupts, and sometimes my camera is nowhere near when moments unfold. That’s why this episode is all about embracing progress over perfection and being present with your camera, no matter if it’s a phone or a “real” camera. I share personal stories, like the time I snapped a treasured summer photo with just my phone because my camera was inside, to prove that it’s the feeling and memory that matters, not how technically perfect the shot is.KEY TOPICS COVEREDMaking Everyday Summer Moments Photogenic - Raymond urges listeners not to wait for "perfect" planned events, but to photograph daily summer experiences. He explains that some of the best, most meaningful images come from spontaneous occasions—like family time around a backyard firepit or a child enjoying a popsicle—using whatever camera is on hand. The focus is on presence and being ready to document the essence of summer.Developing Practical Habits for Photography: - The episode encourages the habit of always having a camera nearby, whether that’s a phone or a compact camera, and provides tips to reduce friction—keeping batteries charged, storing cameras in convenient locations, and using simple accessories. This approach helps cultivate an instinct for capturing unplanned moments and builds a portfolio over time.Understanding and Utilizing Summer Light: - Raymond highlights the unique, dynamic qualities of summer light—golden hour, harsh midday sun, and artificial light at fairs or night events. He suggests photographic exercises to observe and shoot how light changes throughout the day, offering practical examples and ways to train the eye for compelling compositions in any lighting scenario.IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS & CONCEPTSGolden Hour: The short window of time right after sunrise or before sunset when the light is soft, warm, and flattering. It’s popular with photographers because of the golden glow and long shadows.Friction-free Shooting: The practice of minimizing obstacles to carrying and using your camera, such as by keeping it handy, ensuring batteries are charged, and having a plan for spontaneous shooting. This makes photography a natural part of daily life rather than a chore.DISCUSSION & REFLECTION QUESTIONSHow can you make photography a more integrated part of your everyday life this summer?Think about a meaningful summer memory—how could you capture it without worrying about technical perfection?In what ways does your relationship to light change throughout the day, and how can you use that to create more dynamic photos?Sign up for your free CloudSpot Account today at www.DeliverPhotos.comConnect with Raymond! Join the free Beginner Photography Podcast Community at https://beginnerphotopod.com/group Get your Photo Questions Answered on the show - https://beginnerphotopod.com/qa Grab your free camera setting cheatsheet - https://perfectcamerasettings.com/ Thanks for listening & keep shooting!