Dial & Aperture – Details, episodes & analysis

Welcome to Dial & Aperture!

In this inaugural episode, hosts Nacho and Morgan discuss the Focus Point of how they got into photography and who/what inspires them today. They first share some Field Notes on Morgan's recent trip to the Dubai Watch Week watch fair, and Nacho's press trip to Miami to photograph and cover the launch of the new Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean. They wrap up with some Snapshots; recommendations on gear, content, and anything else they've been enjoying recently. You can find this episode's in the show notes below.

Show Notes/Snapshots:

• Scott Yu-Jan: Making 20 Upgrades for my Desk Setup - Dream Setups #2
• Godox X3Pro flash trigger
• Roman Fox
• Peak Design Camera Cube V2 X-Small

In this episode of Dial & Aperture, Nacho shares a field report on his recent experience at the Big Wave Challenge in Nazaré, Portugal, discussing the challenges and excitement of capturing such an event. Morgan also talks about  his recent experiments with outdoor flash use and blending it in with natural light. The conversation delves into photography techniques, the impact of AI on workflows, and the importance of practice and experimentation in photography. Both hosts formally introduce themselves, sharing their personal stories, insights into their work, and their passion for watches, which culminates in a discussion about their backgrounds and their roles in the watch and photography industries.

Show Notes/Snapshots:

• Nacho's Nazaré photo report
• Morgan and Nacho with David Backham
• WristTrack App
• Wake Up Dead Man
• DJI Mic Mini + Mobile Receiver

In this particularly watch-focued episode of Dial an Aperture, hosts Nacho and Morgan give a field report on  their holiday experiences, including weather reflections and personal updates. They share unique Christmas traditions, gift highlights, and their current wrist checks. The conversation shifts to the focus point of their most photographed and worn watches of 2025, exploring photography challenges and future aspirations in watch collecting. They also share snapshots, featuring gadgets and apps that enhance their daily lives and some with the potential to do so in the future.

Show Notes/Snapshots:

• Porsche 911 Turbo advent calendar
• Wuben G5 EDC flashlight
• Tomtoc organizer pouches
• AYN Thor handheld gaming console
• Yazio app
  

In this episode of Dial an Aperture, hosts Morgan and Nacho give a field report on their start to 2026, including recent and upcoming travel, current photography work, and some extreme winter weather and volcanic activity. The focus point today is on the guys’ camera bags and their content. If you're curious about the essential gear Nacho and Morgan use, look no further. The conversation highlights the significance of having the right equipment, offers tips for traveling with it, and shares some fun stories. Finally, snapshots include a key ingredient in Nacho’s self-made camera straps, as well as some great video content to check out.

Show Notes/Snapshots:

Morgan's bag/gear:

• Gomatic McKinnon Camera Backpack 25L
• Gomatic McKinnon Small Cube
• Canon EOS R5
• Canon RF24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM
• Canon RF100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM
• Canon RF35mm F1.8 Macro IS STM
• Helix Burkard CP Kit
• Godox AD400Pro II Flash
• Godox V1 Flash
• Godox Transmitter X3 TTL
• 80cm pop-up reflector/difuser
• Peak Design Leash camera strap
• Peak Design Capture camera clip

Nacho's bag/gear:

• Manfrotto Advanced2 Travel Backpack M
• Fujifilm X-T4
• Fujinon XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR
• Fujinon XF 30mm f/2.8 R LM WR Macro
• Viltrox 23mm f/1.4 XF V2
• DJI Mic Mini
• Nitecore SCL10 Smart Camera Light & Powerbank
• 80cm pop-up reflector/difuser

• Nite Ize MicroLink Carabiner
• @CarswithLuke - YouTube
• Josh Ricketts - @joshrickettsphoto

In this week's episode of Dial an Aperture, hosts Nacho and Morgan discuss their experiences with photography, travel, and the challenges of shooting at the Watches and Wonders fair. They share insights on packing for travel, dealing with flight cancellations, and the importance of having the right gear for photography. The conversation also touches on their current watches, photography techniques, and post-processing workflows, culminating in their snapshots of the week, where they recommend TV shows and some handy cold-weather gear for photographers.

Show Notes/Snapshots:

• IT: Welcome to Derry
• Sealskinz Thornham Merino Fingerless Gloves
• Decathlon Caperlan Thermal Fishing (and photography) Gloves 500
• Nacho's photography IG: @nachocondephoto

In this episode of "Dial an Aperture," hosts Morgan and Nacho dive into their recent experiences in the world of photography, particularly focusing on product photography tips and tricks. Morgan tunes in from Brittany, France, and shares his hectic week visiting independent watchmakers in Switzerland and France, where he took over 7,000 pictures, while Nacho recounts his one-day trip to Geneva to photograph Hublot's novelties ahead of LVMH watch week. The conversation flows into practical advice for aspiring photographers, emphasizing the importance of preparation, such as thoroughly cleaning products before shooting, managing lighting effectively, and the significance of composition. They also discuss the benefits of using a macro lens, the right aperture, and the necessity of having a shot list to ensure all essential angles are captured during a shoot.

Here's a summary of the tips discussed in the episode:

"Clean the product before shooting it to save time in post-processing."

• "Lighting is key; take the time to set it up right before shooting."
• "Use a macro lens for close-up shots to capture details effectively."
• "Have a shot list to ensure you capture all necessary angles."
• "Experiment with different apertures to find the best focus for your shots."
• "Composition matters; take the time to get it right before shooting."
• "Don't be afraid to break the rules of composition; have fun with your photography."
• "Review your shots to ensure everything is in focus before moving on."
• "Use black gloves to avoid fingerprints on your products while shooting."

Show Notes/Snapshots:

• James Lowe - @James_Kelptown on Instagram
• Folding tote bag
• Bluetooth adapter for in-flight use

In this episode, Nacho and Morgan discuss their journeys from pursuing photography as a passion to making it their profession. They share personal experiences, the challenges of working with brands, and the importance of networking and persistence. The conversation also touches on finding balance between work and personal life, the significance of quality in photography, and the learning process of honing their craft. They conclude with snapshots to keep you both stylish and curious to learn more about photography, along with a book recommendation.

Show Notes/Snapshots:

• Aurora Borealis photos
• Peak Design Leash camera strap
• Decathlon "fishing" gloves

• Asphalte clothing
• PhotographyExplained on YouTube
• A Choice of Weapons by Gordon Parks

In this episode of Dial an Aperture, hosts Morgan and Nacho discuss topics including the weather, outdoor activities, and their love of following a run with a quick dip in the ocean. The discussion then focuses on walkabout photography gear. They highlight some of their go-to kit, both over the years and currently. They share insights on what makes gear suitable for this casual photography style, as well as settings and potential options for those looking to get into it. The show wraps up with some recommendations, including the work of watch-loving photographer James Popsys on YouTube, and Morgan’s personal experience with a previous week’s snapshot.

Show Notes/Snapshots:

• Leica Q2
• Fujifilm X-T4
• Fuji 16-55mm f/2.8
• Viltrox 23mm f/1.4
• Olympus Pen E-PL8
• Panasonic G 14mm f/2.5
• Leica Q3 43
• Ricoh GRIV
• Fujifilm X100VI

• James Popsys on YouTube
• Airfly 2 Bluetooth adapter

In this episode of Dial and Aperture, Nacho and Morgan welcome special guest photographer Zach Pina to discuss his journey into photography, the evolution of his skills, and the intersection of photography and watches. Zach shares insights on transitioning from hobbyist to professional, the importance of capturing a subject's essence, and the challenges of shooting in various environments. The conversation also touches on the technical aspects of photography, including various lighting techniques and the importance of storytelling in visual media. In this chat, they delve into various aspects of photography, including the use of flash, the importance of visual storytelling, and challenges faced during location shoots. They discuss the dynamics of working with talent/product, memorable campaign experiences, and the transition from freelance work to running an agency. The conversation wraps up with a few snapshots, including a couple of videos and a podcast recommendation.

Show Notes/Snapshots:

• Zach on IG (well worth a follow)
• Zach's Omega AT Worldtimer
• Morgan's Grand Seiko Shunbun SBGA443
• Nacho's Omega Seamaster 2254
• Peter Blake Omega ads (with various watches)
• RJ’s comments on the Peter Blake
• "Where the Eagle Soars" by Zach on Hodinkee
• THE PIP
• Another BTW of a Hamilton campaign with Zach
• "In the Sands at the Dakar Rally" by Zach on Hodinkee

• Thrasher My War: Chris Joslin
• BTS Hamilton Khaki Field Expedition campaign
• Acquired Podcast

In this episode of Dial & Aperture, Morgan and Nacho talk about recent watch events, the benefits of renting gear, and Nacho’s recent purchase of a flash. They also explore various aspects of photography, focusing on the importance of printing images and the many considerations involved. The conversation also touches on creating photo books and the joy of sharing prints with friends, committing to gifting each other a print of a favorite picture from the other’s catalog. Additionally, they share recommendations for some good music and a photography resource.

Show Notes/Snapshots:

• Frits van Eldik
• @nachocondephoto - IG
• @mr.saignes22 - IG
• The Watch Annual

• Lost In The Wonder - Cory Wong
• Simon D’Entremont - YouTube
• Simon D'Entremont - IG