It’s the start of 2026, and Aaron is following Seth's episode with a solo episode of his own reflecting on the win, challenges, and takeaways of 2025 for him.

Expect to hear Aaron dive into the art of slowing down, the importance of listening to your body, and how a year of "settling in" brought clarity and peace. He shares insights on balancing creativity with consistency, the joy of fostering meaningful relationships, and why happiness truly comes from within. Plus, Aaron opens up about the challenges of running injuries, the lessons learned from back surgery, and how rekindling his love for music became a full-circle moment. This episode is packed with honesty, humor, and a whole lot of life lessons.

Expect to Learn:

• How embracing stillness and being present can lead to deeper self-awareness and fulfillment
• The importance of recognizing and addressing physical red flags before they escalate into bigger issues
• Why true happiness isn’t outsourced to external validation
• Insights on maintaining steady work, fostering client relationships, and finding joy in creative endeavors
• How fostering close relationships and spending time with loved ones can be the most rewarding investment of time

Sponsors:

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/

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

It’s the start of 2026, and I’m (Seth) kicking things off with a solo episode reflecting on the highs, lows, and lessons of 2025.

Expect to learn how I balanced the artistic mind with the business mind, why stepping away from social media made me a more fulfilled creator, the surprising productivity of stillness and boredom, and how I found deeper meaning in my video work. I’ll also share lessons from running injuries, the joy of teaching my niece and nephew about nature, and why my dog learning to swim became an unexpected highlight of 2025 along with much, much more....

Expect to Learn:

• Why you should set three challenging goals each year that have a 50% chance of failure
• How to identify and finish incomplete tasks or projects to reduce mental clutter
• Why eliminating social media can improve your creative output
• How dedicating 20-30 minutes to complete stillness will help you come up with solutions to problems
• How to apply the "3-2-1 system" to structure your day for ultimate productivity and eliminate the non-essential

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

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 efforts
• The importance of educating clients about what they’re missing from or overpaying to social/marketing agencies
• How to create mock-up ads or showcase relevant portfolio work that demonstrates your capabilities
• How being a local creator can give you an edge over large marketing agencies
• How 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

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 time
• how to approach creative teamwork with professionalism and authenticity
• Why taking time to look back on your progress helps you stay motivated
• How to navigate setbacks and use them as opportunities for growth

Sponsors:

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

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 issues
• How to set boundaries and step back from commitments when prioritizing yourself and recovery
• How to mentally navigate setbacks and reframe challenges as opportunities
• Why having a strong support system is crucial during tough times and how to lean on them without guilt

Sponsors:

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

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 subjects
• How to anticipate key moments at events
• How to balance multiple roles as a photographer
• Lessons from elite athletes on sacrifice and perseverance
• Why behind-the-scenes moments can create more compelling stories than traditional action photography

Bram'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

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 day
• How deliberately setting a time limit before starting a project can keep you focused and even make unpleasant tasks more manageable
• How intentionally stepping away from a project can help you catch mistakes and spark newer and better ideas
• How pushing too hard for too long during a creative session can lead to lower-quality ideas
• Why consistency often beats intensity in creative work

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 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

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 expect
• How to stay true to your creative values
• Why reaching a new level in your craft often feels normal or underwhelming
• How 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