Making, Not Just Taking, Pictures

Making, Not Just Taking, Pictures

Author: Steve Brazill October 11, 2018 Duration: 38:36

Rick Sammon is an award winning photographer, and one of the members of the elite Canon Explorer of Light program. A tireless, prolific and inspirational image-maker, Rick, called by many “The Godfather of Photography,” is one of the most active photographers on the planet – dividing his time between creating images, leading photo workshops and seminars, and making personal appearances. His enthusiasm for digital imaging is contagious. He is a man on a mission – a mission to make digital photography fun, creative, exciting and rewarding for others. He even does private coaching. Yeah, private coaching from Rick Sammon. That would be awesome. And if you are looking for great video training, Rick has almost 20 classes on KelbyOne, not to mention a wonderfully personal interview he did with Kalebra Kelby.

I am always impressed how “Creative People” seem to be creative in many areas. Rick has authored more photography books than anyone I know, with his latest, “The Route 66 Photo Road Trip: How to Eat, Stay, Play, and Shoot Like a Pro”, puts the number around 40.

In the last year, Rick has teamed up with fellow KelbyOne instructor Larry Becker, for the Picturing Success podcast. I am honored to say that I was the guest on episode 7, but don’t let that stop you, every show has guests giving valuable and inspirational information on achieving success.

I asked Rick once how he describes his photography, and he answered “evolving,” He hesitates to categorize his work. He does it all, and enjoys the freedom of not specializing.

With nearly 40 years of experience, this self-taught photographer has many accomplishments – and as Rick suggests, “When you are through changing, you are through.”

I am so happy that Rick was able to join me for a third time to discuss some of his travel portraiture on this, my 50th episode, of Behind the Shot.

Connect with Rick

Personal: ricksammon.com
Instagram: @ricksammonphotography
Facebook: @RickSammonPhotography
Twitter: @ricksammon

Rick’s Workshops, Seminars, and Coaching

ricksammon.com

The Picturing Success Podcast, with Larry Becker

Picturing Success Podcast

Rick’s Books on Amazon

Amazon

Rick’s Classes on KelbyOne

KelbyOne


Steve Brazill hosts Behind the Shot-Video, a series that goes far beyond gear lists and camera settings. Each conversation is a deep exploration of the creative and technical journey behind compelling images. You’ll hear working photographers unpack the entire process-from the initial spark of an idea and the challenges of the location to the critical decisions made in post-production. This podcast sits at the unique intersection of art and practical technology, offering tangible lessons for anyone looking to improve their visual storytelling. Rather than abstract theory, these discussions provide a real-world look at problem-solving under pressure and the artistic choices that define a signature style. Tune in for honest, detailed breakdowns that reveal how memorable shots are truly built, layer by layer. It’s an essential resource for visual artists seeking both inspiration and actionable knowledge, all grounded in the lived experience of accomplished creators.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 200

Behind the Shot - Video
Podcast Episodes
Adventure Photography [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:54
Alex Buisse is an adventure photographer based out of Alberta, Canada, but it would seem that Chamonix, France has his heart – at least photographically. Alex is a climber, but around the same time he fell in love with t…
Posing Tips [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:33
At WPPI this year I ran into Vanessa Joy, my first time meeting her in person. We chatted about the classes and workshops she was doing at the conference, and the friend I was with suggested that I get her on the show ag…
In Public: Street Photography [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:34
George Schaub is a photographer’s photographer, and that may be the best compliment I can give anyone. George has a been a professional photographer since 1966, when he was the House photographer for promotion, brochures…
Overpower Daylight [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:20
Rick Sammon has said that he specializes in not specializing, and I am seeing that approach to photography more often. Today’s guest is Will Cadena, and his portfolio include Weddings, Bar / Bat Mitzvahs, Corporate Event…
College Wrestling Photography [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:51
A few days ago Jeremy Lanthorn (@Snackem on Twitter) sent me a guest suggestion: @stevebrazill check out @LeviVentura_ and this shot of @GableSteveson at the NCAA wrestling tournament. Would make a great BTS episode. I g…
Nikon Auto-Focus Explained [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:25:52
NOTE: This is not an official Nikon USA show. This is a podcast first and foremost, and Nikon was kind enough to allow my guest, Mark Cruz, to come speak about the Nikon AF system options. This is not intended to be a te…
Choosing Black & White [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:38
I don’t think Dr. Larry Tiefenbrunn, or Dr. T as he’s known to many, ever sleeps. Larry is a practicing pediatrician, and active photographer, and he’s the founder and CEO of Platypod. I first met Larry through Rick Samm…
Photographic Gesture [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:44
I get guest suggestions on a very regular basis, and most of the time I actually do follow through on them. Unfortunately, I often don’t get any response. Periodically however I not only get a reply, but we end up with a…
Photographing History [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:55
These last few years of the pandemic have been an interesting time. While I would definitely hope to not do it again any time soon, there are a few things that have come out of the pandemic that have been amazing. One of…
Canon Auto-Focus Explained [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 0:00
NOTE: This is not an official Canon USA show. This is a podcast first and foremost, and Canon was kind enough to allow my guest, Rudy Winston, to come speak about the Canon AF system options. This is not intended to be a…