This Week in Photo (TWiP)

This Week in Photo
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This Week in Photo (TWiP)

This Week in Photo is one of the longest running photography-centric podcasts in the industry. Hosted by Frederick Van Johnson, the show is a weekly round-table discussion of the major happenings in the world of photography. You’ll also find deep one-on-one interviews with the industry’s hottest photographers and companies. The show is irreverent, educational and occasionally hilarious!

  1. Matthew Jordan Smith: The Power of Personal Projects, Persistence, and Print

    2D AGO

    Matthew Jordan Smith: The Power of Personal Projects, Persistence, and Print

    On this week’s episode of TWiP, I’m thrilled to welcome my longtime friend Matthew Jordan Smith — iconic celebrity photographer and the creative mind behind Aretha Cool. We dig deep into the magic of personal projects, how AI is reshaping the value of authenticity, and why printing your work might just be the ultimate creative flex in today’s digital chaos. Major Takeaways * Personal projects often lead to life-changing opportunities — but they must come from the heart. * Authentic photography is becoming more precious in the age of AI and endless digital manipulation. * Print isn’t dead — it’s a secret weapon for standing out in a sea of screens. * Building community and sharing your work regularly is critical for growth. * Success comes from doing the work you love, not chasing trends or likes. About Matthew Jordan Smith Matthew Jordan Smith is a celebrated photographer based in Tokyo, with a career that spans Tokyo, New York City, and Los Angeles. His lens has captured some of the world's most iconic faces — Oprah Winfrey, Angelina Jolie, Angela Bassett, Samuel L. Jackson, Zendaya, and many more. Brands like Shiseido, Revlon, Pantene, Coca-Cola, Intel, and HBO have entrusted him to bring their visual stories to life. Beyond his commercial success, Matthew pours his heart into personal projects, publishing powerful books like Sepia Dreams, Lost & Found, and Future American President. His latest work, Aretha Cool — an intimate tribute to Aretha Franklin — is earning acclaim worldwide. Recognized with honors such as the Vision Award and the George Eastman Power of Image Award, Matthew is also a proud Nikon Ambassador and is represented by LVA Represents in New York. Connect with Us Want more inspiring conversations like this? Subscribe to the podcast and join the TWiP community at thisweekinphoto.com! Connect with Matthew: * Check out the book: https://arethacool.com/ * Check out the work: https://www.matthewjordansmith.com/ a href="https://thisweekinphoto.

    46 min
  2. Beyond the Frame: Genesis Falls on Film Photography, Authenticity and Representation

    MAR 4

    Beyond the Frame: Genesis Falls on Film Photography, Authenticity and Representation

    In the latest episode, I sat down with Genesis "Geno" Falls, a Chicago-based film photographer whose work cuts through the digital noise with striking black-and-white film portraiture that captures raw human moments. We discuss her feelings about winning the 2023 Flickr x Black Women Photographers Grant, and why people should enter this years grant competition.Catch them on Instagram at @geno_tatted. A Technical Journey Rooted in Tradition Genesis's approach to photography is refreshingly intentional in our spray-and-pray digital era. Her journey began at age seven, shooting with her grandfather's instant camera—a brief but formative experience that would eventually lead her to formal training in Cinematography at Flashpoint Chicago. "What's fascinating about Genesis's workflow is her technical commitment to film," I noted during our conversation. "She's not just choosing film for aesthetics—she's embracing the constraints and proximity requirements of vintage gear to foster genuine connections with subjects." Over the past 2-3 years, Genesis has specialized in black-and-white portraiture that demands physical closeness to subjects. This technical limitation becomes a feature, not a bug, in her process—creating an intimacy that digital zoom simply can't replicate. The Award-Winning Moment In 2023, Genesis received the $2,500 Flickr x Black Women Photographers grant for "Children at Play"—a photograph captured at Chicago's Millennium Park that freezes a moment of pure joy as children interact with water features, light streaming through the spray. "What struck me about this image," Genesis explained, "was capturing an unplanned moment that still required technical precision to execute properly." The result speaks to her philosophy that authenticity and technical skill aren't mutually exclusive. Her work has been featured at the Evanston Art Center and Chicago ArtSpace, building a portfolio that challenges viewers to look beyond surface impressions. From Grant Recipient to Judge The timing of our conversation couldn't be better, as Genesis now serves as a judge for the third BWP x Flickr Grant alongside myself, BWP founder Polly Irungu, Flickr's MacKenzie Joslin, and SmugMug's Alastair Jolly. The grant offers: * $5,000 cash toward photography practice * Two-year Flickr Pro membership * One-year SmugMug Pro membership Sign up now! Applications close April 14, 2025, and must align with the theme "The Spaces We Occupy." Documenting Underrepresented Artists Genesis's current project, "Through My Lens—An Artist's Story," documents BIPOC artists across various disciplines, creating a visual archive of creators who often remain invisible in mainstream coverage. This work embodies the Gordon Parks philosophy she lives by: "It is the heart, not the eye, that should determine the content of the photograph." The Technical Meets the Human What makes Genesis's approach particularly compelling is how she balances technical proficiency with human connection. In an age where gear obsession often overshadows purpose,

    42 min
  3. Adventure & Automotive Photography with Devan Ence

    JAN 31

    Adventure & Automotive Photography with Devan Ence

    We photographers often talk about finding our niche, but what happens when your creative passion refuses to stay in one lane? In this week's episode, I sat down with Devan Ence, and I've got to tell you – this conversation challenged some common assumptions about specialization in photography. The Journey from Water to Wheels What struck me most about Devan's story was how organically his journey evolved from casual point-and-shoot fishing photos to professional documentary work. During our chat, he shared how watching serious photographers with their DSLRs on the river sparked something deeper. Instead of just capturing the catch, he developed an eye for the complete story – from dawn coffee with friends to the final release of a fish back into the river. Embracing Risk for the Shot Here's what I love about Devan's approach to gear: he's refreshingly real about it. While many of us (myself included) get precious about our equipment, his philosophy is beautifully simple: "If I'm not willing to risk it, then why even have it out there?" Sure, he's lost a few camera bodies to the water, but the shots he gets – often with his camera hovering just an inch above the surface – are worth every heart-stopping moment. Two Worlds, One Vision What fascinates me is how Devan seamlessly bridges two seemingly opposite worlds. When he's not documenting river conservation with Idaho's Henrys Fork Foundation, he's deep in the automotive world as editor for both F-Series Builders Guide and Tread Magazine. His current project, a "slam Bronco" (a 1978 Ford Bronco modified to lay frame on the ground), shows just how far creative vision can stretch across different passions. The Technical Dance During our conversation, Devan broke down how he adapts his technique between environments. While his fishing work often calls for shallow depth of field and intimate close-ups, his automotive photography requires a different approach. He's mastered the art of creating similar aesthetic effects with vehicles by manipulating distance rather than just aperture – a clever workaround that proves technical skills can translate across genres. Breaking Free from Labels If there's one thing I took away from this conversation, it's that we need to stop putting photographers in boxes. Devan's work proves that you don't have to choose between being a nature photographer or an automotive photographer. With upcoming projects spanning from the SEMA show to steelhead fishing in Oregon, he's a living example of how diverse photographic pursuits can feed into each other, creating richer, more nuanced work. About Devan Based in Idaho Falls, Devan Ence specializes in outdoor and product photography, with a particular talent for documenting everyday adventures through his lens. His work stands out for its seamless integration of products – from boots to fly rods – into authentic outdoor narratives, helping brands tell their stories through compelling visual content. When he's not behind the camera, you'll find him knee-deep in a river with a fly rod, tinkering with classic American steel (particularly 73-79 Ford trucks), or crafting the perfect cup of coffee. A dedicated family man, he balances his professional pursuits with raising his 7-year-old son alongside his wife in Idaho's adventure-rich landscape. Connect with Devan: * Instagram (Outdoor/Fishing): @ENCEMEDIA * Instagram (Automotive): @DEVANENCE

    34 min
  4. The Surprising State of Photography: Flickr’s 2024 Year in Review

    JAN 17

    The Surprising State of Photography: Flickr’s 2024 Year in Review

    In this episode of TWiP, I sit down with my good friend and commercial photographer Rob Grimm to explore Flickr's fascinating 2024 Year in Review. Rob Grimm @rggphoto We unpack some surprising insights about the photography world, including Canon's continued dominance in the professional camera space and the unexpected staying power of the iPhone 13. Rob and I dive into the statistics that caught us both off guard – from the mysterious September 30th upload spike to the impressive 30% surge in street photography. We also discuss the revival of community-driven photography challenges and what these trends might mean for photographers in 2025. Whether you're a gear enthusiast, a street photographer, or simply curious about how the world of photography is evolving, this conversation offers valuable insights into how photographers worldwide captured their world in 2024. Below are a few findings from the report. Head over to the Flickr blog for more! Most Popular Cameras * Canon dominated traditional cameras, securing 6 of top 10 spots * iPhone 13 was the most-used camera overall on Flickr * Surprisingly, 900 users still actively used the iPhone 3G * A total of 7,000 different image capture devices were used Photography Trends * Street photography saw a 30% increase in popularity * Color-themed tags (especially red and green) were among top 5 used tags * "Friendly Challenges" became the most active discussion group * "World Photography Day 2024" was the fastest-growing group Notable Dates * September 30th: Highest number of photo uploads * January 1st: Most photos taken * May 11th: Special surge in photos due to rare Aurora Borealis visibility (as far south as New Mexico) Popular Locations * Times Square * Metropolitan Museum of Art * Empire State Building * Vatican City (2,300 unique users uploaded photos) * Mammoth Cave National Park (most photographed U.S. National Park) Community Activity * Art and cultural institutions drew major photographer interest * The British Museum was among top photographed locations * Active engagement in challenge-based photography groups * Strong focus on community feedback and learning Conclusion The 2024 Flickr Year in Review shows us that great photography transcends equipment choices, from professional Canon cameras to legacy iPhones.

    46 min
  5. “I Was a Storyteller,” with Troy Miller

    JAN 3

    “I Was a Storyteller,” with Troy Miller

    In this deeply personal conversation, veteran photographer Troy Miller opens up about his journey through 30 years in professional photography and his recent exploration of AI music creation. Troy shares the story behind his powerful song "I Was a Storyteller," which captures the complex emotions of watching your industry transform around you. We dive deep into Troy's experience with Suno AI for music creation, discussing how artificial intelligence is becoming another creative tool, much like the transition from film to digital photography. Troy explains how he combined his own lyrics with AI technology to express feelings that many creative professionals might find familiar in today's rapidly changing landscape. The conversation expands beyond just photography and music, touching on the future of creative industries, the impact of technological change, and how professionals can adapt while maintaining their artistic integrity. Troy shares invaluable insights from his decades of experience, offering a unique perspective on everything from wedding photography to embracing new forms of creativity. Whether you're a photographer, creative professional, or simply interested in how AI is reshaping artistic expression, this interview provides an honest look at the challenges and opportunities facing creative industries today. Connect with Troy: Website: https://imageryconcepts.comArt Portfolio: https://spicyjello.com Community: https://f64live.comSuno: https://suno.com/@spicyjello Listen to the song: https://youtu.be/s4qI8Ez9cao I Was a Storyteller by Troy Miller I held the world in my hands, framed in light and perfect plans.Each moment was a story to weave.Now it's a dream I can retrieve.The lens of my soul used to shine, now it's clouded lost time.Just on the dreams I used to know Fading faster than I can let go.I was a story teller, a painter of a light.I was a dreamer chase the night I was a creatorA builder, a name.Now I'm just echoes of a flickering flame.Each frame was a moment life preserved Now I wonder was it all deserved?With thrills gone, the passions dry I scroll through my past and wonder why. Was it the pressure, the grind the race?Or did I just lose the spark the chase. The tools I held now feel so strange, A reminder of what I can't exchange.I was a storyteller a keeper of dreams I was alike those vibrant scenes I was a creator, a purpose, a voice.Now I'm just someone without a choice.Cannot find the fire again?Do I even know where to begin?Or is it okay to let it rest, and say goodbye to what was — my best?I was a storyteller I captured the Sun, now I'm the one who feels overrun. Maybe I'll rise or maybe I'll stay, but I'll always remember who I was...yesterday.

    58 min
  6. They Called Us Liars! AI Pioneer Speaks!

    11/19/2024

    They Called Us Liars! AI Pioneer Speaks!

    The AI revolution isn't slowing down, folks. As someone who's been in photography for decades, I've seen many technological shifts, but none quite as rapid or transformative as what we're experiencing now. Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Eric Yang, CEO of Topaz Labs, a company that's been quietly revolutionizing image enhancement through artificial intelligence. Here's the thing about AI in photography - it's not just about making bad photos good anymore. It's about expanding what's possible with the images we already have. As Eric and I discussed, we're at a fascinating intersection where traditional photography meets cutting-edge AI technology. One of the most interesting revelations from our conversation was how Topaz Labs approached AI implementation. Back in 2018, when they released Gigapixel AI, they faced significant skepticism. "People would call us liars," Eric shared, chuckling. "They would just not believe that you could do this." Fast forward to today, and AI-enhanced images are becoming the norm rather than the exception. What struck me most during our conversation was Eric's perspective on the future of photography. While many fear AI might replace traditional photography, he sees it as an enhancement rather than a replacement. "The level of image and video enhancement that you'll be able to get in the next year or so is going to be dramatically better than what you can get right now," he predicted. The most exciting part? Topaz Labs is working on bringing diffusion models - the same technology powering many generative AI tools - to video enhancement. This could be a game-changer for videographers and content creators who want to maximize the quality of their footage. About Eric Eric Yang co-founded Topaz Labs with his father Albert, initially naming the company after an item in the video game Diablo 2. Starting with Photoshop plugins, the company pivoted to AI-powered image enhancement in 2018. Under Eric's leadership, Topaz Labs has processed over 1 billion images and served more than 1 million paid customers.  Before focusing fully on Topaz, Eric worked at Snapdocs (valued at over $1B) and founded PhotoWhoa, a photography deals site. He's now leading Topaz Labs through its next phase of innovation in AI-powered image and video enhancement. Website: https://www.topazlabs.comFollow Eric: https://www.instagram.com/yangez About Topaz Labs Topaz Labs develops advanced AI tools designed to support photographers, videographers, and digital artists in achieving their creative goals. Their suite of applications, including Photo AI, Video AI, and Gigapixel AI, simplifies complex processes such as detail enhancement and upscaling while maintaining clarity and quality. By focusing on innovative solutions, Topaz Labs aims to provide users with reliable tools to streamline workflows and improve visual results. Photo AI: Take your photos to the next level with intelligent AI enhancements that refine details, eliminate noise, and add sharpness with a single click. Perfect for photographers who want incredible results without spending hours editing.

  7. 1% for the Planet, and Flickr Join Forces for the Environment

    10/29/2024

    1% for the Planet, and Flickr Join Forces for the Environment

    In today’s world, businesses are increasingly expected to do more than just turn a profit—they’re being called to make a positive impact on the environment and society. In a recent interview with Frederick Van Johnson, Kate Williams, the CEO of 1% for the Planet, shed light on how her organization has been a catalyst for businesses worldwide to take on this responsibility. The organization, co-founded by Patagonia’s Yvon Chouinard and Blue Ribbon Flies’ Craig Matthews, has grown into a global movement where companies commit 1% of their revenues to environmental causes. During the conversation, Kate explained that 1% for the Planet isn't just about writing checks. The core of their mission is to create a structured way for businesses to integrate giving into their DNA. Each year, companies donate 1% of their revenues (not profits, as revenues are a truer reflection of business success) directly to vetted environmental partners. It’s a model built on transparency, impact, and empowerment. A prime example of this collaborative effort is 1% for the Planet’s partnership with Flickr. Kate revealed how this relationship blossomed from a shared event, where Flickr was already contributing to environmental work. From there, Flickr quickly embraced the 1% model and has become a business member and key player, even sponsoring an online auction to raise funds for 1% for the Planet’s continued work. This auction features products and services donated by member businesses, with all proceeds going towards strengthening the organization’s ability to support more environmental partners globally. Kate also discussed the diversity of industries and companies involved in the movement, with members ranging from startups to billion-dollar enterprises across 64 different sectors. What unites them is a shared belief that investing in the planet is both the right thing to do and good for business. “Ultimately, any economy that we have for the long term can only survive and thrive on a planet that is thriving,” Kate said. This commitment is not just lip service—Kate and her team ensure that every company’s donation is certified annually, creating accountability and building trust among their members and the public. As 1% for the Planet grows, so does its impact. Kate shared the organization’s ambitious goal to hit $1 billion in lifetime certified giving and beyond, aiming to accelerate their influence with each passing year. For businesses like Flickr, this partnership is about more than just dollars—it’s a way to align their brand with meaningful environmental action, engage their communities, and play a role in creating a sustainable future. Kate’s message to businesses was clear: “Now is the time. Whether your 1% is large or small, it contributes to a larger collective that is creating real, measurable impact.” Through movements like 1% for the Planet, businesses are learning that being environmentally responsible is not only beneficial for the world but also for the health and longevity of their brand. By telling their stories and sharing their commitment, companies like Flickr are proving that it’s possible to be both success...

    45 min
  8. Photoshop, and Moving Beyond AI – with Dave Cross

    10/04/2024

    Photoshop, and Moving Beyond AI – with Dave Cross

    In the ever-evolving world of digital imaging, it's easy to get caught up in the latest features and AI-powered tools. However, as I discovered in a recent conversation with Photoshop Hall of Famer Dave Cross, the key to true Photoshop mastery lies in a rock-solid understanding of the fundamentals. Dave Cross, with over 34 years of experience teaching Adobe software, brings a unique perspective to the table. As an Adobe Certified Instructor, Certified Technical Trainer, and three-time Adobe MAX Master Instructor, Dave has witnessed firsthand the evolution of Photoshop from its early days to its current AI-enhanced incarnation. Dave continues to lead Photoshop education via his wildly popular Photoshop Virtual Summit, we discuss the how's and why's of this virtual conference, and the benefits of time-shifted distance learning. About Dave Cross https://youtu.be/pBs-P3gmXZk The Power of Foundational Knowledge "The fundamentals of Photoshop are like the grammar of a language," Dave explained. "You can use translation tools, but to truly communicate, you need to understand the underlying structure." This analogy perfectly encapsulates why mastering the basics remains crucial, even as Photoshop introduces more automated features. Dave emphasized that a strong foundation in areas like layers, masks, and selections not only enhances creativity but also problem-solving skills. "When you understand how Photoshop 'thinks,'" he noted, "you can approach any task with confidence, whether you're using the latest AI tool or a technique that's been around for decades." Balancing Automation and Manual Control One of the most interesting parts of our discussion centered on the balance between embracing new technologies and maintaining manual skills. Dave shared an anecdote from his teaching experience: "I once had a student who relied heavily on AI-powered selection tools. When faced with a complex image where the AI struggled, they were at a loss. But another student, who had mastered manual selection techniques, quickly solved the problem." This story illustrates a crucial point: while AI and automation can be incredibly useful, they're most powerful when complementing a solid skill set, not replacing it. The Evolving Landscape of Photoshop Education As someone who has taught at prestigious events like Photoshop World, Adobe MAX, and Imaging USA, Dave has a unique perspective on how Photoshop education has changed. He noted that while online resources have made learning more accessible, they've also created a challenge: "There's so much information out there, it can be overwhelming. The key is to focus on building a strong foundation first, then expanding from there." This philosophy is reflected in Dave's approach to the Photoshop Virtual Summits he's been running since 2020. These events offer free classes from world-class instructors, emphasizing both fundamental skills and cutting-edge techniques. Looking to the Future As our conversation drew to a close, I asked Dave about the future of Photoshop and digital imaging. His response was both exciting and grounding: "The tools will continue to evolve, and that's fantastic. But the principles of good design, effective editing, and creative problem-solving – those are timeless.

    1h 11m
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About

This Week in Photo is one of the longest running photography-centric podcasts in the industry. Hosted by Frederick Van Johnson, the show is a weekly round-table discussion of the major happenings in the world of photography. You’ll also find deep one-on-one interviews with the industry’s hottest photographers and companies. The show is irreverent, educational and occasionally hilarious!

Information

  • Creator
    This Week in Photo
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2025
  • Episodes
    95
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ©2019 This Week in Photo
  • Show Website
    This Week in Photo (TWiP)

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