Beyond the Wild

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Episode 34 Feb 07, 2025

Show notes

Once again, our listeners, who are also outstanding photographers in their own right, have provided some incredible questions for Ron, Jason and Mark. Wide-ranging topics, from improving the odds of wolf and counters to computer gear and culling images from your portfolio, test the crew and draw out new wisdom from these seasoned wildlife aficionados.

Takeaways

Overshooting can be beneficial due to the unpredictability of wildlife.
Memory storage is cheap, allowing photographers to keep more images.
Editing techniques evolve, allowing for better results from older images.
Past success is a powerful tool for advertising workshops.
Engaging with clients is essential for successful workshops.
Networking and word-of-mouth are key for workshop success.
Understanding animal behavior enhances photography opportunities.
Technology advancements improve the quality of wildlife photography.

Sound Bites

"You have to know when to leave."
"Memory is cheap, so overshoot!"
"You need to work the scene."

Chapters

06:59 Wildlife Encounters: Stories from the Field
13:57 Giveaway Announcement and Opportunities
17:05 Listener Questions: Wildlife Photography Insights
31:02 Technical Gear and Photography Equipment
42:41 Choosing the Right Equipment for Photography
44:00 Transitioning from PC to Mac for Photographers
48:13 The Art of Editing and Color Calibration
51:27 Capturing Wildlife: Tips and Experiences
01:00:10 Marketing Photography Workshops Effectively
01:09:21 Culling and Managing Your Photography Portfolio

This Episode’s Questions and Mentions

1. If you could relive one of your first wildlife encounters now, what would it be?
@KMaxPhotography_

2. How do you know when to leave one area and head to the next with wildlife
@ThroughAPilotsLens

3. What's your home computer gear, especially monitors?
@Photography.rks (Bob Stiens)

4. Have any of the crew had any cool wolf encounters or tips for photographing them?
@JoshShandera

5. What is the best way or ways that you all have found success in advertising your photography workshops?
@JonathanGillinghamPhotography

6. How do you guys cull shots for critters you already have a great catalog of content for?
@MtMiller.Montana

Thanks for the hat, Mike!
@FairFxMike (Michael Fahey)

Thanks for listening to the Beyond the Wild Podcast. Remember 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.

Episode 33 Jan 30, 2025

Show notes

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

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.

Episode 32 Jan 23, 2025

Show notes

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

Episode 31 Jan 16, 2025

Show notes

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

Sergius Hannan’s Beluga Underwater Footage

https://youtube.com/clip/Ugkxl0oE3X-x8JOOYHgkoJ-jhTP0ABY6b8dJ?si=oYGxylTuTb5uwnah

Episode 30 Jan 07, 2025

Show notes

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

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

Episode 29 Dec 31, 2024

Show notes

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 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 and Canon USA.

Episode 28 Dec 19, 2024

Show notes

Meet Mary Jacquel, a multifaceted photographer making her mark, capturing the wild beauty of Alaska’s Southern panhandle. In discussion with Mary, the hosts dive deep into Mary’s photography, cinematography and drone work, discussing the balance between external and internal perspectives and the importance of intentionality in capturing moments. Mary’s humpback and orca content has garnered millions of views on Instagram, and her unique location has allowed her to follow nesting bald eagles throughout the seasons. Recently, she has taken a step back to experience the nostalgia and limitations of film photography, and the conversation looks back at the evolution of the craft. Mary reflects on the storytelling aspect of photography, the community it fosters, and the unique experiences that come with wildlife photography, particularly in Alaska. The dialogue emphasizes the joy and challenges of content creation, the value of patience, and the personal connections formed through shared passions.

Takeaways

Patience is a valuable trait in the photography process.

The joy of capturing a moment remains, regardless of the medium.

Photography fosters community and connection among enthusiasts.

Understanding the subject's behavior is crucial for wildlife photography.

The experience of photography is as important as the final image.

Balancing external views with personal storytelling enhances engagement.

Storytelling in photography adds depth to the viewer's experience.

The transition from film to digital has changed the photography landscape.

Intentionality in photography leads to more meaningful images.

Chapters

03:10 Mary Jackal's Journey to Alaska

06:59 The Allure of the Inside Passage

11:02 Favorite Outdoor Experiences and Drone Photography

16:57 Challenges of Drone Photography on the Water

21:00 Capturing Marine Wildlife: Techniques and Tips

30:01 The Art of Capturing Moments

32:31 The Shift to Video Content

34:07 Navigating Social Media Dynamics

36:36 The Value of Authenticity in Content Creation

38:04 Experiencing Alaska Through a Lens

40:06 Personal Relationships with Social Media

41:09 Exploring YouTube as a Platform

44:11 The Balance of Storytelling in Photography

46:57 Humanizing the Photography Experience

56:43 The Journey to Photography Passion

58:33 The Journey into Photography

01:02:29 The Shift from Digital to Film

01:08:00 Intentionality in Photography

01:13:01 The Evolution of Photography Equipment

01:18:59 Reflections on the Art of Photography

LINKS

@MarysMark
Instagram

Thanks for listening to another episode of Beyond the Wild Podcast. To see more of our show and to watch the hosts, as well as the photos and videos that they discuss, tune into their Beyond the Wild Podcast YouTube channel.

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.

Episode 27 Dec 12, 2024

Show notes

This episode is overdue, but due to technical difficulties, the Beyond the Wild crew was unable to reach a consensus on the performance of Canon's new R5 Mark II camera bodies. Ron Hayes and Jason Loftus discuss their initial experiences with the latest cameras, and their observations landed at opposite ends of the spectrum. After Canon Professional Services determined that Ron's R5 MKII body had a motherboard issue, Ron could finally experience the latest Canon tech with new internals installed. The crew discussed the Mark II autofocus system, colour performance, and overall improvements compared to the original R5. They share personal anecdotes about their photography experiences, the challenges they faced with the camera, and the support they received from Canon Professional Services and Pictureline. The discussion highlights the significance of customer service in the photography equipment industry and the importance of reliable gear for wildlife photography. The hosts discuss various aspects of photography, including the challenges and wonders of camera technology, battery life, colour quality, and the evolution of photography tools. They share personal experiences in the field, emphasizing the importance of reliable equipment and the excitement surrounding new camera models. The conversation also touches on the growth of their podcast and the joy of connecting with their audience and fellow photographers.

Takeaways

The Canon R5 Mark II has significant improvements over the original R5.
Autofocus performance is a standout feature of the R5 Mark II.
Customer service from Pictureline and Canon Professional Services is crucial.
The pre-record feature is beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Color performance has improved, but some users may need to adjust saturation in post-processing.
The camera's new sensor offers richer colors and better performance.
The R5 Mark II's autofocus system is reliable for wildlife photography.
User experiences can vary significantly based on equipment and settings.
Firmware updates can resolve initial issues with camera performance.
Investing in reputable retailers ensures better customer support. Camera technology can sometimes fail unexpectedly.
Battery life improvements are noticeable in newer models.
Color quality is a significant factor in photography.
The evolution of camera technology is rapid and exciting.
Field experiences can be unpredictable and challenging.
Trust in your equipment is crucial for photographers.
Feedback on new camera models is essential for the community.
Podcast growth reflects the support of the photography community.
Meeting listeners in the field enhances the podcast experience.
It's important to enjoy the journey and not sweat the small stuff.

Sound Bites

"It's good to be back."

"This has been overdue."

"I was not having the same experience."

"It's a good testimonial though."

"Everybody was loving the camera."

"It's a completely new system."

"It was focusing on birds in flight."

"It's worth it, you know."

"Battery life seems to be just fine."

"It's always a joy to meet people."

Chapters

01:00 Introduction and Camera Release Discussion
07:04 Experiences with the Canon R5 Mark II
13:09 Autofocus System and Performance Improvements
18:58 Color and Sensor Enhancements
30:42 Camera Technology Challenges
31:30 Battery Life Insights
33:06 Color Quality Comparisons
34:24 The Evolution of Photography Technology
37:40 Field Experiences and Challenges
40:16 Trust and Reliability in Equipment
41:20 Feedback on New Camera Models
44:07 Podcast Growth and Community Engagement
52:31 Memorable Encounters in the Field

LINKS

Links Canon USA R5 Mark II Pag e
https://bit.ly/3DdC0pq

SNL Close Encounter S kit
https://bit.ly/3OT9TON

Thanks to SNL for creating the ideal scenario to describe our experiences with the all-new Canon R5 Mark II.

Episode 26 Nov 28, 2024

Show notes

In this engaging podcast episode, Ron Hayes, Jason Loftus, Mark Raycrof and guest Amy Harris share their experiences from a recent trip to Brazil's Pantanal. They discuss the challenges and joys of wildlife photography, the beauty of jaguars, and the importance of managing expectations while traveling. The conversation also touches on travel tips, culinary experiences, and the camaraderie formed during their adventures. In this engaging conversation, Ron and Amy delve into their experiences and photographic adventures in the Pantanal. They discuss the impressive features of the extensive native wildlife, share valuable photography techniques, and emphasize the importance of sun protection while out in the field. The conversation also touches on the use of technology in photography, particularly the benefits of pre-recording, and reflects on the overall experience of the trip, highlighting the learning and growth that comes from such adventures.

Takeaways

We saw as many jaguars as we did in a short timeframe and had high-quality wildlife encounters every time we went out.
The heat was a significant challenge during the trip.
Best wildlife encounter was with a jaguar and her cub.
The Pantanal is the world's largest tropical wetland.
I was glad I tried piranha soup, but it wasn't my favorite.
Cayman can grow up to ten feet long and weigh over a hundred pounds.
Photography requires careful attention to depth of field and focus.
Sun protection is crucial when photographing wildlife in hot climates.
The Pantanal offers diverse wildlife and beautiful accommodations.
Pre-recording features in cameras can help capture fleeting moments.
Experiencing new environments enriches personal growth and learning.
Taking a break from the pressure of capturing the perfect shot can enhance enjoyment.
Sharing experiences with friends builds camaraderie and enhances the adventure.
Local cuisine in the Pantanal is fresh and diverse, enhancing the travel experience.
Traveling with the right gear and knowledge can significantly improve the experience.

Sound Bites

"This is going to be the most comfortable podcast"
"It's good to be back together"
"I had wonderful friends accompany me"
"I tried really hard not to set expectations"
"We are lucky to have seen as many as we did"
"The Pantanal is the world's largest tropical wetland"
"We had them every time we went out"
"I was glad I tried it"
"Their teeth are much more impressive than an alligator."
"You have to have a deeper depth of field than you think."
"You want to blur out everything behind it."
"Take lots of memory cards. Tons."
"You can see how she did wonderfully on this trip."
"This was a trip for me to experience something new."
"Take your eye out of the camera, just soak it in."

Links

Amy Harris (adventure.amy)

Episode 25 Nov 21, 2024

Show notes

In this Beyond the Wild podcast episode, host Ron Hayes, Jason Loftus, and Mark Raycroft sit down with naturalist extraordinaire Russ DeFusco while shooting together in Colorado. Russ shares his remarkable life journey, professional achievements, and passion for wildlife photography and education. Russ’s childhood fascination with nature evolved into a passion for wildlife photography and art, leading him to become an ornithologist and wildlife biologist, where he built a storied career in military and civil aviation bird strike prevention. His work included developing predictive models to mitigate bird-aircraft collisions, saving lives and resources. Russ emphasizes connecting with nature, inspiring curiosity, and educating others. He believes understanding wildlife behavior enhances both conservation efforts and photography. His motto: “If you can name it, you own it,” highlights the value of knowledge in fostering environmental stewardship.

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.

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