Shutter Nonsense: A Nature Photography Podcast
Welcome to Shutter Nonsense - a laid-back nature photography podcast with hosts Michael Rung and Jeffrey Tadlock. Every other week, we dive into the world of landscape and nature photography with casual conversations about what we’ve been up to, current happenings in the photography world, and tips to help you grow as a photographer. Whether you’re a weekend hiker with a camera or a seasoned shooter chasing perfect light, you’re in good company. It’s not utter nonsense... but it is Shutter Nonsense.
Welcome to Shutter Nonsense - a laid-back nature photography podcast with hosts Michael Rung and Jeffrey Tadlock. Every other week, we dive into the world of landscape and nature photography with casual conversations about what we’ve been up to, current happenings in the photography world, and tips to help you grow as a photographer. Whether you’re a weekend hiker with a camera or a seasoned shooter chasing perfect light, you’re in good company. It’s not utter nonsense... but it is Shutter Nonsense.
Episodes

Aug 12, 2025
Sarah Marino and Producing Photography Ebooks
Aug 12, 2025
Aug 12, 2025
1 hr 7 min
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
Aug 12, 2025
1 hr 7 min

Jul 29, 2025
Everything You Need to Start Car Camping
Jul 29, 2025
Jul 29, 2025
1 hr 18 min
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
Jul 29, 2025
1 hr 18 min

Jul 15, 2025
Finding Beauty Beyond Grand Landscapes
Jul 15, 2025
Jul 15, 2025
58 min
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
Jul 15, 2025
58 min

Jul 1, 2025
Authentic Photography in the Age of AI
Jul 1, 2025
Jul 1, 2025
52 min
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
Jul 1, 2025
52 min

Jun 17, 2025
Meet the Hosts of Shutter Nonsense
Jun 17, 2025
Jun 17, 2025
52 min
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:
Q&A Round
Memorable Photo Experiences
Gear Failures and Adapting
Giving Up Photography
Defining Success in Photography
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/@ShutterNonsensePodcastPatreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/ShutterNonsenseMichael's Website: MichaelRungPhotography.comJeffrey's Website: JeffreyTadlock.com
Jun 17, 2025
52 min

Jun 10, 2025
Jun 10, 2025
1 hr 18 min
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:
Recent Workshops and Experiences
Folio Collections and Print Quality
Listener Feedback and Episode Topics
Essential Camera Gear and Lenses
Weather Sealing and Maintenance Tips
Spare Batteries and Unexpected Mishaps
Tripods and Mounting Plates
Exploring Filter Options
Magnetic Filters: A Game Changer
Rain Protection for Gear
The Importance of Walkie-Talkies
First Aid Preparedness
Garmin Satellite Trackers
iPhone Satellite Connectivity
Related Links:
Michael’s gear page: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/my-gear
Michael’s photo gear Amazon store page: https://tinyurl.com/y5523as7
Michael’s Leofoto tripod review: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/post/leofoto-tripod-review-lm-324cl-x-version
Michael’s Leofoto geared head review: https://www.michaelrungphotography.com/post/the-perfect-tripod-head-setup
Jeffrey’s gear page: https://jeffreytadlock.com/my-gear
Jeffrey’s FLM Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPdd25Q98klnlXydgFeb-NvlG08zOLnNn
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
Jun 10, 2025
1 hr 18 min

Jun 1, 2025
Jun 1, 2025
45 min
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:
Meet the Hosts
Workshop Experiences in the Smoky Mountains
Importance of Quality Tripods
Podcast Goals and Direction
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
Jun 1, 2025
45 min






