In this episode we're joined by photographer and filmmaker Chris Burkard (@chrisburkard) as he shares his insights on storytelling, creative exploration, and balancing ambition with family life. Chris dives into the leap from dreaming to achieving, finding joy in the creative process, and building a meaningful legacy through connection with nature. He opens up about cultivating curiosity, overcoming impostor syndrome, and redefining success beyond metrics, while highlighting the importance of bold creative freedom and lasting impact.

Expect to Learn:

• How to turn "what if" moments into actionable plans and executed vision
• Why chasing joy, not perfection, makes you create your best work
• How to balance roles as a creative professional and devoted parent
• Why the most accessible and frequently gear trumps the latest technology
  
  

Chris's Website: https://www.chrisburkard.com/
Watch "The Forgotten Coast" Film: https://tv.apple.com/movie/the-forgotten-coast

Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

You can 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

Part two is here, and we’re bringing more reflections and lessons learned from our photography journeys. This time, we’re talking about the power of focusing on fewer, impactful goals, finding balance in your social media habits, and navigating the endless tug-of-war with perfectionism. With honest stories, practical advice, and relatable insights, this episode is packed with ideas to help you sharpen your focus and build a creative career on solid ground.

Expect to Learn:

• Why trying to do everything at once can dilute your efforts and hinder success
• How to let go of the need to overcomplicate or overdeliver
• How to recognize when you’re spreading yourself too thin
• How to build a foundation in the correct order to grow efficiently as a photographer

Sponsor:

Thanks to WhiteWall for being our lead sponsor this episode! They're the top choice for photographers who want high-quality prints, with a variety of material options, and who want their work delivered fast in 9 days or less!

You can 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

Everyone makes mistakes, but in this episode, we’re owning them and sharing the valuable lessons they brought us. From pouring too much energy into social media to regretfully underpricing creative work, skipping contracts, and being enticed by the exposure promises of predatory photography sharing platforms, we're breaking down what we got wrong in our photography journeys. We reflect on these missteps with personal stories, honest insights, and practical advice to help you avoid similar pitfalls. Whether you're navigating pricing, client agreements, or the balance between social media and creativity, this episode delivers key takeaways to propel your growth as a photographer or creative.

Expect to Learn:

• How to not let time spent on socials overshadow honing your craft
• How to avoid pricing yourself too low and feeling regretful
• Why you should always use clear contracts that outline everything
• How to avoid predatory apps and situations that promise exposure
• How to align your energy with your long term photography goals

Sponsor:

Thanks to Tamron for being our lead sponsor this episode! Explore the 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 lens with $200 USD & $300 CAD off and deals on many more lenses during their for your Sony E-mount, Nikon Z, and FUJIFILM X-mount mirrorless cameras by clicking www.tamron-americas.com or by visiting your local Tamron authorized dealer. The Spring Savings event is on now until April 20th, 2025.

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

Support the show

Support the show