Beyond the Wild

Our hosts, Ron Hayes, Jason Loftus, and Mark Raycroft, butt heads in a lively game of Photo Feud, debating unpopular opinions in wildlife photography.  Through a point-counterpoint format, each host must support a designated “for” or “against” position and delve into the pros and cons of each topic, providing insights into the evolving landscape of photography. Exploring the implications of affordable zoom lenses, the debate over the best camera to have on hand, the surge of new photography businesses following the holiday season, conservation photography and the modes of transportation used, as well as the ongoing discussion of whether shooting in RAW is necessary in the age of advanced camera technology. The conversation is lighthearted yet insightful, encouraging listeners to think critically about their photography practices and the tools they use.  Takeaways Affordable zoom lenses have changed wildlife photography dynamics. Smartphones have become essential tools for capturing moments. New photographers need to build portfolios before starting businesses. Photography requires more than just owning a good camera. The quality of a photograph is influenced by the photographer's skill. Editing plays a crucial role in the final image. The photography industry is becoming increasingly competitive. A strong portfolio requires thousands of good images. Cameras are evolving tools that require skill to use effectively. RAW files offer more editing flexibility than JPEGs. The camera's AI can make decisions that reduce the need for RAW. It's important to enjoy the process of photography. Lighthearted debates can lead to deeper insights. Sound Bites "This might be the most unpopular episode we've ever done." "Reasonably priced zooms are the worst thing to wildlife photography." "There are now 2,000 new photography businesses." "You have to train your eye for composition." "Cameras are tools, and like all tools, they evolve." "The tools have improved significantly." "It's a win-win-win when you ride your bike." "Riding a bike is silent compared to other forms." "For most uses, RAW is totally unnecessary." "The camera is making great decisions, perfect decisions." "You can’t rework a JPEG as far as RAW." "It's nice to stop and think some of these things through." "Get out in the field with your best camera." Chapters 00:00 Unpopular Opinions in Wildlife Photography 14:57 The Impact of Affordable Zoom Lenses 29:59 The Best Camera: The One You Have 44:54 The Rise of New Photography Businesses 34:55 The Importance of a Strong Portfolio 36:20 Tools of the Trade: Cameras as Instruments 38:21 Environmental Photography: Modes of Transportation Debate 51:11 The RAW vs JPEG Discussion 57:44 Lighthearted Conversations and Future Topics Special thanks to Andrew Hearne for the idea for this podcast. @AWHearne [https://www.instagram.com/awhearne/] Thanks for listening to the Beyond the Wild Podcast. Make sure to subscribe to be notified of upcoming episodes for your listening and viewing enjoyment! Beyond the Wild Podcast is sponsored by Pictureline.com and Canon USA.

In this flashback episode, Ron, Jason and Mark look back on the past calendar year of photo trips and share the good, the bad and the childish humor that makes the BTW who they are. The conversation is filled with laughs, insights into the challenges of nature, and the pure joy and rejuvenation that come from going beyond the wild. Thanks for a great 2024, everyone. Your support is greatly appreciated. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Lighthearted Banter 05:30 Reflections on the Year in Wildlife Photography 17:10 Highlights and Memorable Experiences 28:35 Challenges Faced in 2024 32:40 Looking Ahead to 2025 35:02 Adventures in the Antarctic 36:02 Survival Stories and Literature 37:14 Celebrating Book Success 40:07 The Importance of Direct Support for Authors 40:53 Humorous Moments in the Field 46:58 The Joy of Wildlife Photography 54:53 The Stance: A Fun Field Tradition 01:00:57 The Power of Laughter and Friendship Thanks for listening to the Beyond the Wild Podcast. Make sure to subscribe to be notified of upcoming episodes for your listening and viewing enjoyment! Beyond the Wild Podcast is sponsored by Pictureline.com and Canon USA.

Summary In this episode, Ron Hayes and Mark Raycroft reflect on their separate but memorable trips to Churchill, Manitoba, in search of iconic arctic wildlife. Ron’s September trip focused on the Autumn colors, and he discusses his experiences with Aurora photography, beluga whales, and polar bears. He shares insights on the beauty of autumn colors, cultural engagement with the local community, and the planning of future trips to this unique destination. The conversation highlights the unpredictability of wildlife encounters and the joy of capturing stunning images in nature. Mark Raycroft shares his contrasting experiences from his first snowy November trip to Churchill and his unique wildlife photography opportunities, particularly with a wide range of polar bear behavior. He discusses the journey to Churchill, travel tips, gear selection, and the emotional connections formed during wildlife encounters. The conversation highlights the thrill of capturing moments with sparring boars and the importance of community and fun in photography adventures. Takeaways The trips to Churchill are both memorable and educational. Aurora photography requires the right equipment and techniques. Beluga whale interactions can vary year to year. The beauty of autumn colors enhances the wildlife experience. Cultural insights from local communities enrich the trip. Wildlife encounters are unpredictable but rewarding. Planning future trips can help manage expectations. Photography in RAW format yields better results. Engaging with local artists and their work is inspiring. The camaraderie among travelers enhances the experience. The journey to Churchill offers stunning aerial views. Choosing the right gear is crucial for wildlife photography. Packing efficiently can enhance your travel experience. Wildlife encounters create emotional connections. Sparring bears provide unique photography opportunities. Community and fun are essential in photography trips. Planning ahead can lead to better experiences. Understanding animal behavior enhances photography. Capturing moments in nature is a rewarding experience. Editing photos multiple times can yield different results. Sound Bites "We hit a home run with the Aurora." "I shot the Aurora in RAW." "There were a ton of whales this year." "The colors really hadn't popped." "We had a good tour." "We saw several bears every day." "It was a great collection of people." "I zero regrets about the trip." "It was a different experience walking around." "We can share some information." "What an interesting view from the plane." "Know when you're planning these trips." "I was so aware of the baggage for the carry-on." "You can never hear a ptarmigan pee." "I am in bliss. I don't need anything more." "It helps us to bring this together." Chapters 00:00 Memorable Trips to Churchill 02:05 Aurora Photography Techniques 10:00 Beluga Whales and Polar Bear Encounters 18:14 The Beauty of Autumn Colors 26:13 Cultural Insights and Community Engagement 34:48 Planning Future Trips to Churchill 39:01 Journey to Churchill: Aerial Perspectives 42:54 Travel Tips: Packing and Equipment Management 45:56 Choosing the Right Gear for Wildlife Photography 49:21 Capturing Unique Wildlife Moments: Ptarmigan and Arctic Hare 52:46 The Thrill of Polar Bear Encounters 56:38 Sparring Bears: A Photographer's Dream 01:01:55 The Emotional Connection with Wildlife 01:06:48 Experiencing the North: The Life of Polar Bears 01:10:10 Planning Future Adventures: Upcoming Trips and Opportunities 01:12:59 The Importance of Community and Fun in Photography Links Jason Gibody’s Instagram Page jgwildphoto [https://www.instagram.com/jgwildphoto/?hl=en#] Sergius Hannan’s Beluga Underwater Footage https://youtube.com/clip/Ugkxl0oE3X-x8JOOYHgkoJ-jhTP0ABY6b8dJ?si=oYGxylTuTb5uwnah Thanks for listening to the Beyond the Wild Podcast. Make sure to subscribe to be notified of upcoming episodes for your listening and viewing enjoyment! Beyond the Wild Podcast is sponsored by Pictureline.com [http://Pictureline.com] and Canon USA.

In this episode of Beyond the Wild, Ron Hayes, Mark Raycroft, and Jason Loftus sit down with the co-founders of the Photographer’s Mindset Podcast to discuss their journeys into photography, particularly wildlife photography. Both Seth Macey and Aaron Manis explore the importance of motivation, mindset, and community in pursuing their passion. The conversation highlights the significance of patience, observation, and the learning process in capturing stunning images. The guests share personal anecdotes about their experiences and the challenges they face, emphasizing the value of small successes and the role of authenticity in their work. Ron Hayes and his guests explore the multifaceted world of wildlife photography, emphasizing the importance of mindset, presence, and the joy of unexpected moments in nature. They discuss the thrill of capturing images, the significance of perseverance, and the learning journey that comes with each outing. The dialogue highlights the unpredictability of wildlife photography, the necessity of letting go of expectations, and the value of enjoying the process rather than fixating on outcomes. Through personal anecdotes and shared experiences, they illustrate how photography can be a rewarding and enriching pursuit, akin to the game of golf, where the focus should be on the experience rather than the score. Takeaways It's okay not to be motivated all the time. Wildlife photography offers solitude and a deeper understanding of nature. Community and collaboration can enhance creativity and motivation. Patience and observation are key in wildlife photography. Small successes should be celebrated, regardless of the subject. Learning from others can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Focus on honing skills in your local environment. Mindset plays a crucial role in navigating challenges in photography. Authenticity in guests can lead to relatable and inspiring conversations. Photography is a journey of continuous learning and growth. A day in the field is a success, regardless of outcomes. Failure is often a misperception in photography. Delayed gratification enhances the joy of wildlife photography. Every outing offers something valuable, even if not a photo. Mindset is crucial for enjoying the photography experience. Learning something new each day is essential for growth. Enjoying the journey is as important as the results. Being present in the moment enriches the experience. The unpredictability of wildlife adds excitement to photography. Enjoy the process and let go of the pressure.  Sound Bites "I feel privileged in a sense." "Watching animals is just genuinely interesting." "You can make some really nice pictures." "You gotta stop chasing, man." "You have to adjust to the curve balls that come." "Focus on what's in your backyard." "A day in the field is a success." "Failure isn't the right descriptor." "Delayed gratification is addicting." "Always leave with something." "None of these outings are failures." "You can learn something new every day." "Enjoy the journey, enjoy the learning curve." "Photography is about being present." "Enjoy the process, don't pressure yourself." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back 02:51 The Journey into Photography 05:59 Wildlife Photography: Passion and Learning 09:14 Motivation and Mindset in Photography 12:07 The Role of Community and Collaboration 15:00 Finding Inspiration and Staying Engaged 17:57 The Importance of Patience and Observation 21:03 Navigating Challenges in Photography 24:10 Guest Selection and Authenticity 26:57 Celebrating Small Successes 30:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 38:11 Embracing Nature's Joys 41:21 The Thrill of Unexpected Moments 43:16 Mindset and Presence in Photography 46:39 Letting Go of Expectations 49:08 The Law of Averages in Photography 51:55 Setting Goals and Learning 54:48 The Journey of Improvement 56:15 Intentional Photography Practices 01:00:17 The Unpredictability of Wildlife Photography 01:02:44 Finding Fun in the Process 01:04:38 Golf and Photography: A Life Analogy Links: Guest’s Podcast https://thephotographermindset.com [https://thephotographermindset.com] Seth Macey @sethmacey https://www.instagram.com/sethmacey https://www.sethmaceyphotography.com Aaron Manis @mantis_photography https://www.instagram.com/mantis_photography https://www.amantisphotography.com Thanks for listening to the Beyond the Wild Podcast. Make sure to subscribe to be notified of upcoming episodes for your listening and viewing enjoyment! Beyond the Wild Podcast is sponsored by Pictureline.com [http://Pictureline.com] and Canon USA.

Time flies when you're having fun. We've had a great first season and met some amazingly talented photographers along the way. Before our second-season journey begins, let's take a quick look at some highlights from season one. Special thanks to our foundational sponsors, pictureline.com [http://pictureline.com] and Canon USA. Doing what you do and your continued support is greatly appreciated. We are pumped for 2025! Wishing all our listeners a happy and prosperous New Year. Thanks for listening to the Beyond the Wild Podcast. Make sure to subscribe to be notified of upcoming episodes for your listening and viewing enjoyment! Beyond the Wild Podcast is sponsored by Pictureline.com [http://Pictureline.com] and Canon USA.