Shutter Nonsense: A Nature Photography Podcast

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:
Red River Paper (affiliate link)
NMFA
Shiny Prints (affiliate link)
Matt Payne's print lab reviews
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.comLearn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

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

In this episode, 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:
Welcoming Alex Noriega
Diving into Curation
Emotional Attachment in Photography
The Curation Struggle
Building Excitement Through Tighter Curation
Standing Out in a Saturated Market
Social Media and Mediocre Work
Curation for the Hobbyist and Professional 
The Role of AI in Photography
Relevant Show Notes Links
Alex’s Newsletter Signup: https://www.alexnoriega.com/subscribe
Alex’s Website: https://www.alexnoriega.com/
Chrissy Donadi’s Lightroom Organization Course: https://chrissydonadi.com/lets-get-organized-course
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.comLearn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

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

In 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:
Photography Gear and Brand Loyalty
The Upgrade Mentality
Pixel Peeping and Megapixels
Field Performance vs. Lab Results
Professional versus Hobbyist
Future Technology
Related Links:
Michael's Gear List: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/my-gear
Jeffrey's Gear List: https://jeffreytadlock.com/my-gear 
Learn more about Michael's photography: www.michaelrung.com
Learn more about Jeffrey's photography: www.jeffreytadlock.com

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

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:
Introducing special guest Barbara Livieri
The Good and the Bad of Workshop Experiences
Researching and Choosing the Right Workshop
Mental and Physical Preparation for Workshops
The Gift of Feedback
Community and Photography Workshops
Final Thoughts and Practical Tips
Related Links
Jeffrey’s workshops page: https://jeffreytadlock.com/workshops 
Michael’s workshops page: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/landscape-photography-workshops 
Michael’s Workshop Selection Checklist: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/post/how-to-choose-the-right-nature-photography-workshop 
Out of Chicago workshops: https://www.outofchicago.com/ 

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

In 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:
The world of printing
Print labs and quality control
Pros and cons of outsourcing printing
Choosing the right print medium
Paper types
Tips for first-time printers
Joys and challenges of printing
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

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