The Photographer Mindset

Seth Macey & Aaron Mannes

The Photographer Mindset is a podcast specifically created for photographers, and those who believe their purpose is to create, inspire and develop into their full potential. The photographer mindset podcast was initiated to help creative individuals understand that their success depends on more than just skill and dedication. In this podcast we learn to develop a winning mindset based on attitude and out of the box thinking strategies so that we can grow our clients, brand recognition & confidence. We want to work smarter towards our goals, not harder.

  1. Ian Jones - How Independent Creators Can Win Over Clients from Big Agencies

    6D AGO

    Ian Jones - How Independent Creators Can Win Over Clients from Big Agencies

    Ian Jones (@iansjones) is a Pittsburgh-based commercial photographer and creative strategist known for crafting bold, story-driven visuals for brands and businesses, with a focus on content that connects, performs, and stands out. Expect to Learn:  How to tactfully ask potential clients about their current marketing effortsThe importance of educating clients about what they’re missing from or overpaying to social/marketing agenciesHow to create mock-up ads or showcase relevant portfolio work that demonstrates your capabilitiesHow being a local creator can give you an edge over large marketing agenciesHow explaining your process can help win over clients who may feel jaded by previous experiences.Ian's Website: https://www.isjdesigns.com/ Sponsors: Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want the highest-quality prints! Use the code TPM2025 at checkout for 15% off: https://www.whitewall.com/ Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

    56 min
  2. Lessons in Resilience, Collaboration, and Pricing Your Value

    2025-12-22

    Lessons in Resilience, Collaboration, and Pricing Your Value

    In this episode, Seth and Aaron catch up on life’s recent challenges and wins. Aaron shares his journey through back surgery recovery, while Seth reflects on creative growth and pricing strategies. They also dive into a unique collaboration where Aaron’s 10-year-old son lent his voice to a video project for Seth, showcasing the power of collaboration and authenticity. Expect to Learn: How small, consistent efforts lead to meaningful progress over timehow to approach creative teamwork with professionalism and authenticityWhy taking time to look back on your progress helps you stay motivatedHow to navigate setbacks and use them as opportunities for growthSponsors: Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want the highest-quality prints! https://www.whitewall.com/ Thanks also to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today’s episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner’s photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. Deadline to submit is December 31st 2025!  Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpm Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

    55 min
  3. Aaron's Emergency Back Surgery Has Become the Ultimate Reset Button

    2025-12-15

    Aaron's Emergency Back Surgery Has Become the Ultimate Reset Button

    What happens when your body forces you to stop? Aaron shares the story of his sudden back injury, the decision to undergo emergency surgery, and the mindset needed to face recovery. From ignoring warning signs to embracing a full reset, we explore the balance between pushing through and knowing when to pull back. What does it take to rebuild stronger, and how can setbacks become opportunities for growth? Expect to Learn: How to differentiate between pushing through discomfort and addressing underlying issuesHow to set boundaries and step back from commitments when prioritizing yourself and recoveryHow to mentally navigate setbacks and reframe challenges as opportunitiesWhy having a strong support system is crucial during tough times and how to lean on them without guiltSponsors: Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints! Order by December 16th 2025 to receive your print(s) before Christmas! : https://www.whitewall.com/ Thanks also to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today’s episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner’s photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. Deadline to submit is December 31st 2025!  Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpm Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

    53 min
  4. Bram Berkien - Photographing the Human Side of the Tour de France

    2025-12-08

    Bram Berkien - Photographing the Human Side of the Tour de France

    Bram Berkien (@bramberkien) is a Dutch photographer celebrated for his ability to capture the human side of elite sports. As the official photographer for Visma-Lease a Bike (formerly Jumbo-Visma), Bram has spent the last seven years documenting the world’s top cyclists, including their highs, lows, and everything in between at the Tour de France. In this episode, Bram shares what it’s like to work behind the scenes with some of the most dedicated athletes on the planet. From the trust it takes to photograph intimate moments on the team bus to the creative challenges of balancing action shots, sponsor content, and personal storytelling, Bram reveals the art of capturing authenticity in high-pressure environments. We also explore his journey from stacking suitcases at an airport to photographing cycling’s biggest stage, the lessons he’s learned from elite athletes, and why the human side of sport is where the real magic happens. Expect to Learn: How to build trust with high-profile subjectsHow to anticipate key moments at eventsHow to balance multiple roles as a photographerLessons from elite athletes on sacrifice and perseverance Why behind-the-scenes moments can create more compelling stories than traditional action photographyBram's Website: https://bramberkien.com/ Sponsors: Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Check out their brand-new 25-200mm F/2.8 all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount, perfect for travel and everyday shooting. Learn more at www.tamron-americas.com Thanks to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today’s episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner’s photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpm Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

    1h 1m
  5. Why Consistency Beats Intensity for Creative Output & Performance

    2025-12-01

    Why Consistency Beats Intensity for Creative Output & Performance

    In this episode we explore the power of deliberately stopping while you’re still in the creative zone. We discuss how walking away at the right moment while editing or working on a project can preserve momentum, protect your energy, and lead to better results. With personal stories, practical strategies, and even a pizza analogy, this conversation is packed with insights to help you stay fresh and inspired in your creative process. Expect to Learn: Why ending your creative session while you’re still energized can make it easier to dive back in the next dayHow deliberately setting a time limit before starting a project can keep you focused and even make unpleasant tasks more manageableHow intentionally stepping away from a project can help you catch mistakes and spark newer and better ideasHow pushing too hard for too long during a creative session can lead to lower-quality ideas Why consistency often beats intensity in creative workSponsors: Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Check out their brand-new 25-200mm F/2.8 all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount, perfect for travel and everyday shooting. Learn more at www.tamron-americas.com. Thanks also to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today’s episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner’s photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. The deadline to submit is December 31st 2025! Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpm Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

    40 min
  6. Why Success Doesn’t Feel Like Success

    2025-11-24

    Why Success Doesn’t Feel Like Success

    Why does success often feel like a moving target? In this episode, we explore the highs and lows of the creative journey, from embarrassing shoot stories and drone disasters to the mindset shifts that keep us as photographers inspired. Expect honest reflections on the pressures of social media, the pursuit of passion over perfection, and why the creative process never truly gets easier. Expect to Learn: Why reaching milestones doesn’t always bring the satisfaction you expectHow to stay true to your creative valuesWhy reaching a new level in your craft often feels normal or underwhelmingHow to protect your love for photography by setting boundaries Sponsors: Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Their Holiday Instant Savings are here! Save up to $300 on select lenses for Sony, Nikon, and FUJIFILM mirrorless cameras now through January 11th, 2026. Explore here at www.tamron-americas.com  Thanks also to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today’s episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner’s photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. The deadline to submit is December 31st 2025! Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpm Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

    1h 13m
  7. Dalton Johnson - How to Land More Photography Clients Without Feeling "Salesy"

    2025-11-17

    Dalton Johnson - How to Land More Photography Clients Without Feeling "Salesy"

    In this episode, we dive into the art of landing photography clients with guest Dalton Johnson (@storiesbydalton), a full-time commercial and editorial photographer known for his outdoor and adventure work. Dalton shares his insights on balancing inbound and outbound strategies, building genuine relationships, and creating systems that attract work. Whether you're a full-time photographer or balancing a side hustle, this conversation is packed with actionable tips to help you connect with clients, stay top of mind, and create a sustainable career. Expect to Learn:  The difference between pitching clients directly and building systems that attract them to youWhy fostering long-term connections with potential clients can lead to consistent workHow to use social media effectively without getting caught in the "posting for the algorithm" trapHow to use your portfolio to showcase your capabilities to potential clientsHow to maintain subtle, meaningful outreach that keeps you on a client’s radar without being pushyDalton's Website: https://dalton-johnson.com/ Dalton's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@storiesbydalton Sponsors: Thanks to Tamron for sponsoring this episode! Their Holiday Instant Savings are here! Save up to $300 on select lenses for Sony, Nikon, and FUJIFILM mirrorless cameras now through January 11th, 2026. Explore here at www.tamron-americas.com  Thanks to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today’s episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner’s photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass.  Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpm Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

    1h 16m
  8. We Tackle Rapid Fire Photography Questions

    2025-11-10

    We Tackle Rapid Fire Photography Questions

    In this lively episode, we tackle rapid-fire photography questions, sharing our takes on overrated trends, chaotic behind-the-scenes photography moments, some of our favorite photos, and more. From photographing 3D-printed hearts to talking about our favourite wildlife poses, we dive into the quirks of photography while keeping it fun and relatable. Plus, Aaron introduces his new pup, Sedona, and Seth dishes on breaking the "rules" of the craft. Enjoy! Expect to Learn: Our takes on overdone photography trends we love to hateAbout some of our chaotic and wild behind-the-scenes photography storiesHow and why to break the "rules" of photographySome of our favorite subject poses and editing workflow quirksSome stories behind some of our most memorable photosSponsors: Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints! BLACK FRIDAY site wide sale of 15% OFF from November 3rd until December 1st 2025: https://www.whitewall.com/ Thanks also to the National Park Foundation for sponsoring today’s episode. Enter the Share the Experience photo contest for a chance to win $10,000 and prizes from Celestron, Historic Hotels of America, and YETI. The grand prize winner’s photo could be featured on the America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. Deadline to submit is December 31st 2025!  Submit your best shots now at sharetheexperience.org/tpm Our Links: Join our subreddit where you can share stories and ask questions: https://www.reddit.com/r/photographermindset/ Subscribe to TPM's Youtube page and watch full length episodes: https://www.youtube.com/thephotographermindset/ Make a donation via PayPal for any amount you feel is equal to the value you receive from our podcast episodes! Donations help with the fees related to hosting the show: https://paypal.me/podcasttpm?country.x=CA&locale.x=en_US Thanks for listening! Go get shooting, go get editing, and stay focused. @sethmacey @mantis_photography @thephotographermindset Support the show

    45 min
5
out of 5
32 Ratings

About

The Photographer Mindset is a podcast specifically created for photographers, and those who believe their purpose is to create, inspire and develop into their full potential. The photographer mindset podcast was initiated to help creative individuals understand that their success depends on more than just skill and dedication. In this podcast we learn to develop a winning mindset based on attitude and out of the box thinking strategies so that we can grow our clients, brand recognition & confidence. We want to work smarter towards our goals, not harder.

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