Shutter Nonsense: A Nature Photography Podcast

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

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:
Surprise Guest - Sarah Marino
The Value of Free eBooks
Creating and Sequencing eBooks
Technical Aspects of eBook Creation
Time Investment
The Appeal of Zines and Physical Books
Engaging With Your Audience
Evaluating the Worth of eBooks and Zines
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

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:
Car Camping Lifestyle
Current Car Camping Setups
Essential Gear
Power Solutions
Hygiene Tips for Long Trips
Safety and Security
Awnings
Rooftop Tents vs. Sleeping in the Vehicle
Entertainment Options
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
 

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:
The Evolution of Nature Photographers
Social Media and Photography
Discussing Iconic Photography
Appreciating Small Scenes
The Joy of Local Exploration
Telling Stories Through Photography
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

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:
AI Tools in Photography
Ethics of AI-Generated Art
Authenticity in Photography
Impact of AI on Perception of Nature
Future of AI in Media and Society
Human Connection in the Age of AI
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:
Michael's blog post on AI: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/post/authenticity-in-photography
Links to Visit:
Website:  https://www.shutternonsense.com/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ShutterNonsensePodcast
Michael's Website: MichaelRungPhotography.com
Jeffrey's Website: JeffreyTadlock.com