Explore every episode of the podcast Shutter Nonsense: A Nature Photography Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 001 Welcome to Shutter Nonsense! Gear, Workshops & Banter | 01 Jun 2025 | 00:45:44 | |
In the first episode of 'Shutter Nonsense,' nature photographers Michael Rung and Jeffrey Tadlock kick off their new casual and light-hearted photography podcast. Recording live from the Smoky Mountains National Park, they discuss their experiences co-leading a workshop, the challenges and strategies for dealing with weather conditions, and their personal backgrounds in photography. They also delve into equipment choices, notably tripods and heads, and share some useful tips for setting up compositions. The conversation touches on the intricacies of managing photography workshops and the importance of community feedback. The episode sets the tone for future bi-weekly releases, promising candid discussions, guest appearances, and interactive listener engagement. Highlights include:
Links to Visit: Website: https://www.shutternonsense.com/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ShutterNonsensePodcast Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Michael's Website: MichaelRungPhotography.com Jeffrey's Website: JeffreyTadlock.com | |||
| 002 Essential Gear & Safety Tips for Nature Photography | 10 Jun 2025 | 01:18:33 | |
Photography Essentials and Emergency Preparedness In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, hosts Michael Rung and Jeffrey Tadlock discuss the importance of carrying essential photography gear and being prepared for emergencies while out in nature. They cover a wide range of topics, including which lenses are crucial to carry, the benefits of using magnetic filters, and the value of L-brackets for efficient composition. The hosts emphasize the significance of having items like microfiber cloths, spare batteries, memory cards, and Allen wrenches. Emergency preparedness is a key focus, with discussions on the necessity of first aid kits, walkie-talkies, headlamps, and Garmin satellite trackers. They also touch upon the utility of iPhone’s satellite messaging feature, despite its limitations. The episode is informative for both novice and experienced nature photographers, offering practical tips to ensure a successful and safe photography outing. Highlights include:
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| 005 Beauty Beyond the Grand Scenes in Nature Photography | 15 Jul 2025 | 00:58:08 | |
In the fifth episode of Shutter Nonsense, hosts Michael and Jeffrey delve into the evolution of nature photographers over time, discussing the shift from capturing grand vistas to focusing on smaller, more intimate scenes. They debate the reasons behind this evolution, emphasizing the importance of photographing personal passions rather than chasing trends. Throughout the episode, they share personal experiences, discuss their approach to photographing nature scenes, and provide tips for developing an eye for smaller scenes. They also touch upon the impact of social media on 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:
Relevant Show Notes Links Michael’s related blog post: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/post/grand-scenes-vs-small-scenes
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 004 Photographic Authenticity in the Age of AI | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:52:14 | |
In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, hosts Michael and Jeffrey delve into the intricate relationship between authenticity, photography, and the rapidly evolving world of AI and digital art. They discuss issues surrounding honesty, integrity, and the impact of AI on the creative process and nature photography. The episode explores the challenges of defining authenticity in an increasingly artificial world and examines both the benefits and ethical considerations of AI tools. Michael and Jeffrey also share personal updates on their photography projects and plans for future trips. The episode includes discussions on the environmental impact of AI, the ethical considerations of AI in photography, and the importance of maintaining human connections in the art world. Don't forget to join the conversation on their Patreon page, whether you're a free follower or a paid member. Highlights include:
Also, 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 Related Links:
Links to Visit:
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| 003 Getting to Know Your Hosts | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:52:02 | |
Join hosts Michael Rung and Jeffrey Tadlock as they dive into their personal photography journeys in this episode of Shutter Nonsense. They discuss everything from their first cameras to their biggest 'aha' moments, early influences, and how they balance life with their passion for photography. This episode also features a lightning-fast Q&A round covering first cameras, early influences, balancing life and photography, and more. Michael and Jeffrey continue to discuss topics such as creative blocks, gear failures, and defining success in photography. Highlights include:
Engage with the post-episode conversation on their Patreon group, open to all members. Links to Visit: Website: https://www.shutternonsense.com/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ShutterNonsensePodcast Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Michael's Website: MichaelRungPhotography.com Jeffrey's Website: JeffreyTadlock.com | |||
| 006 Everything Needed to Get Started with Car Camping | 29 Jul 2025 | 01:18:07 | |
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:
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
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| 007 Sarah Marino and Producing Ebooks for Your Photography | 12 Aug 2025 | 01:07:19 | |
In this inaugural guest episode, Michael and Jeffrey are joined by acclaimed nature photographer and educator Sarah Marino. They delve into the rising trend of photography eBooks, discussing personal and business experiences, the value of image sequencing, and the nuances of creating engaging content. Sarah shares insights from her journey, the importance of storytelling in photography, and offers valuable tips for anyone considering creating their own eBooks. The conversation also addresses finding a balance between business needs and creative fulfillment, making this a must-watch episode for both aspiring and seasoned photographers. 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:
Relevant Show Notes Links Sarah Marino’s Website: https://smallscenes.com/ Sarah and Ron’s Free Ebooks: https://smallscenes.com/free-portfolio-ebooks Michael's Free Ebooks: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/free-ebooks Jeffrey's West Virginia Ebook: https://jeffreytadlock.com/ebook-portfolio Affinity Publisher 2 Software: https://affinity.serif.com/en-us/publisher/ Adobe InDesign Software: https://www.adobe.com/products/indesign.html
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 008 Matt Payne and the Ins and Outs of Photo Competitions | 26 Aug 2025 | 01:25:48 | |
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:
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 | |||
| 009 The Art of Printing: Enhancing Your Photography Experience | 09 Sep 2025 | 01:09:27 | |
In episode 9 of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey delve into photo printing, discussing the basics of getting started, the pros and cons of home printing versus using a professional lab, and how to choose the right paper for your prints. We also cover important considerations when editing for prints and share tips based on our personal experiences to help you make the best printing choices for your work. We also explore the topic of how holding a physical print can change your approach to photography and editing. 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:
Relevant Links: Michael’s blog post on printing: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/post/printmaking-trials-tribulations Producing Better Prints tutorial w/Sean Bagshaw and Zack Schnepf: https://www.outdoorexposurephoto.com/video-tutorials/producing-better-prints/ Photo Lab - New Mexico Fine Art (NMFA): https://nmfa.io/ Photo Lab - Bay Photo: https://bayphoto.com/
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com
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| 013 Does Camera Gear Even Matter for Nature Photography? | 04 Nov 2025 | 01:10:40 | |
In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, hosts Michael and Jeffrey dive into the ever evolving debate of whether camera gear still matters in 2025 for nature photography. They discuss brand loyalty, the real-world benefits of upgrading, and how new technology impacts photography. They also highlight the common traps photographers fall into when upgrading their gear and offer advice on evaluating genuine needs versus fear of missing out, also known as FOMO. Additionally, the episode features detailed discussions on professional vs. hobbyist needs, the impact of mirrorless systems, and the future of camera technology. 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:
Related Links:
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 012 Must-Have Apps for Nature Photographers | 21 Oct 2025 | 01:09:44 | |
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:
Related Links
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 011 Preparing for Photography Workshops With Barbara Livieri | 07 Oct 2025 | 01:19:02 | |
Photographer Barbara Livieri joins hosts Michael and Jeffrey in this episode of Shutter Nonsense for an in-depth discussion of photography workshops and preparation tips. The trio talks about how to prepare for nature photography workshops, the good and bad experiences they've encountered, and why mindset is crucial for getting the most out of these immersive learning experiences. They also delve into the importance of building community and connections during workshops, and share tips on navigating the physical and mental demands of intensive photography workshops. Whether you're thinking about joining your first workshop or looking to enhance your future experiences, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. 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:
Related Links
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| 010 Murray Livingston on Photo Editing and Why Midtones Are Bull | 23 Sep 2025 | 01:27:12 | |
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:
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 | |||
| 014 Nature Photography in Difficult Conditions | 18 Nov 2025 | 01:00:07 | |
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:
Relevant Show Notes Links
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 016 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Nature Photography | 16 Dec 2025 | 01:01:21 | |
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:
Relevant Show Notes Links
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 015 Alex Noriega and Mastering the Art of Curation | 02 Dec 2025 | 01:10:03 | |
In this episode, renowned nature photographer Alex Noriega joins the hosts Michael and Jeffrey. The trio delve into the critical importance of curating your nature photography to elevate it from good to memorable. The conversation covers a variety of topics, including the selection and refinement of images, social media’s impact on curation, balancing personal satisfaction with audience engagement, and the influence technology may have on future curation. Alex shares his insights and experiences, offering listeners a new perspective on curating their work. Whether a hobbyist, a seasoned pro, or somewhere in between, this episode highlights the significance of a well-curated portfolio and how thoughtful curation can improve one’s photographic journey 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:
Relevant Show Notes Links
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 017 Photo Prints and Making Money | 30 Dec 2025 | 01:23:19 | |
In Episode 17 of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey dive deep into the business side of selling photographic prints. From pricing and production choices to fulfillment and customer service, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to make print sales work sustainably. They discuss how to think about pricing beyond just cost, the pros and cons of printing your own work versus using a professional lab, and how different sales channels like online stores and art fairs shape your strategy. The episode also explores presentation, shipping, refunds, replacements, and the ongoing debate around limited edition prints. If you are a photographer who sells prints or is thinking about adding print sales to your business, this episode is packed with real-world insights and practical considerations. 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: • Pricing photographic prints realistically • Self-printing vs third-party labs • Selling online vs art fairs • Presentation and display choices • Shipping and fulfillment workflows • Customer service, refunds, and replacements • Limited edition prints and whether they make sense
Related Links: Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 018 Staying Local For Your Nature Photography | 13 Jan 2026 | 00:59:06 | |
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:
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.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 019 Growth Through Photography Trips | 27 Jan 2026 | 01:12:19 | |
In Episode 19 of Shutter Nonsense, hosts Michael and Jeffrey dig into how photography trips shape us far beyond the images we bring home. Travel can spark creativity and excitement, but it also introduces uncertainty, pressure, and the challenge of balancing expectations with reality. We talk about what happens when you photograph unfamiliar places, how travel can help reconnect you with your original motivation for picking up a camera, and why growth often comes from being uncomfortable. Along the way, we share personal travel stories, discuss planning versus spontaneity, explore solo versus group travel dynamics, and reflect on how revisiting familiar locations compares to chasing something new. This episode is less about destinations and more about intention, awareness, and the long-term impact photography trips can have on your creative life. Whether you travel often or only occasionally, this conversation is about making those trips more meaningful. 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:
Relevant Links: Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com
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| 021 Ben Horne & How Perceptions of Our Work Change Over Time | 24 Feb 2026 | 01:26:49 | |
In this most recent episode of Shutter Nonsense, hosts Michael and Jeffrey sit down with special guest, landscape photographer Ben Horne, for a thoughtful conversation about how the way we see our own photographs changes over time. What starts as excitement or disappointment in the moment often shifts months or years later, sometimes in ways we never expect. Ben shares stories from a recent trip to Zion, walks through his film and large-format workflow, and reflects on what it’s like to revisit older work with fresh eyes. Together, they talk openly about creative doubt, the tension between technical perfection and emotional impact, and why some images only reveal their value long after they were made. This episode is an honest discussion about growth, patience, and learning to trust the photographic 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. www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsense Highlights
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| 020 Photography as a Hobby or a Business? | 10 Feb 2026 | 01:31:17 | |
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
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 | |||
| 022 Planning and Scouting Nature Photography Trips | 10 Mar 2026 | 01:06:02 | |
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
Related Links:
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 023 Minimalism and Maximalism in Nature Photography | 24 Mar 2026 | 00:53:57 | |
In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, we dig into minimalism vs maximalism in landscape photography and talk through what those ideas actually mean in practice. We start by catching up on the usual behind-the-scenes chaos: preparing for the long drive from Ohio to Death Valley for an upcoming workshop, building landing pages for holiday promotions, launching a new iPhone photo app, and squeezing in a last-minute presentation for Angel McNeese’s 2025 landscape photography summit. From there, we get into the main topic and explore the difference between minimalist and maximalist photography, why “small scenes” are not automatically minimalist, and how the places you shoot can heavily influence the way you see and compose images. We also talk about reducing visual confusion, managing visual weight, why minimalist images are often harder to pull off than they look, and how editing can either strengthen or completely undo a simple composition. We also get into the role social media plays in what photographers choose to share, and how that can shape perceptions of style more than we might realize. 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:
Related Links: Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 024 Does Hit Rate Matter in Nature Photography? | 07 Apr 2026 | 00:54:20 | |
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
Related Links:
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 025 Cole Thompson & John Barclay On Color vs. Monochrome | 21 Apr 2026 | 01:00:43 | |
In Episode 25 of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey are joined by Cole Thompson and John Barclay to talk about color versus monochrome photography, and how to know when each one makes sense. The conversation goes way beyond editing choices and gets into vision, intention, creativity, and why black and white can be either a distraction-free tool or a deeply personal way of seeing. Along the way, they talk about learning to see in black and white, how personal vision shapes the work we make, the difference between photographing for likes versus photographing for meaning, and why this choice often goes much deeper than simple aesthetics. There’s plenty of humor in this one too, which is probably exactly what you’d expect when these four get together. 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:
Related Links:
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com
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| 026 Growth Through Constraints in Nature Photography | 05 May 2026 | 01:02:59 | |
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
Related Links:
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 027 Working a Scene vs. Moving On in Nature Photography | 19 May 2026 | 01:00:13 | |
In this episode of Shutter Nonsense, Michael and Jeffrey talk about one of the trickier decisions in landscape and nature photography - knowing when to keep working a scene and when it is time to move on. Sometimes staying longer helps you find stronger compositions, better light, and quieter details you would have missed at first glance. But sometimes you are not really working the scene anymore, you are just standing there pressing the shutter over and over because you feel like you should be doing something. We talk through the difference between patience and getting stuck, the temptation to keep photographing the same frame, how a second camera body can help you keep exploring, and the FOMO that comes with wondering if the best light is about to happen right after you leave. We also share a few stories from Death Valley, Lost Dutchman, Colorado, the Grand Canyon, and other photography outings where the decision to stay or move on shaped the images we came home with. 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 Highlights:
Related Links: Jeffrey’s Trail Ready Guide: https://jeffreytadlock.com/ebook-store/p/trail-ready-ebook Lost Dutchman State Park: https://azstateparks.com/lost-dutchman PhotoPack Pro App: https://www.photopackpro.com Johnny Carson: https://www.youtube.com/user/johnnycarson Foqos App: https://www.foqos.app/ Matt Payne: https://www.mattpaynephotography.com/ Richard Bernabe: https://beyondthelens.fm/ Cameron in Ferris Bueller: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XC1fGYWLCE Michael’s Wildfire Blog Post: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/post/the-power-of-regret Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||
| 028 Brenda Tharp on Being Popular vs Being Yourself | 02 Jun 2026 | 01:06:53 | |
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:
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/500898 Northern California Council of Camera Clubs: https://n4c.org/ Richard Martin: https://www.richardmartinphoto.com/ Michael’s PhotoPack Pro App: https://www.photopackpro.com Michael’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=OXYndNL4Mu8 Freeman Patterson: https://www.freemanpatterson.com/ Ansel Adams quote: https://photographylife.com/two-people-in-every-photo-ansel-adams Jay Maisel: https://www.jaymaisel.com/
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com | |||