Building a Photography Career in the Music Industry | Ramon Piquero of R54 Photos

What does it REALLY take to make it as a photographer in the music and entertainment industry?In this episode of Jason Lanier Unfiltered, Jason sits down with renowned hip hop and rap photographer Ramon Piquero of R54 Photos to discuss the realities of building a career photographing some of the biggest names in music.

From networking and getting your work in front of the right people, to surviving the feast-or-famine nature of creative industries, this episode is packed with real-world advice for photographers, filmmakers, creatives, and entrepreneurs trying to carve out a lasting career.Jason and Ramon also dive into:• How to break into the music industry as a photographer

• Why networking and relationships matter more than ever
• Building a business without relying on social media
• The importance of mixing corporate and artistic clients for stable income
• Why humility and professionalism open more doors than ego ever will
• How persistence and consistency can change your entire career
• What separates photographers who survive from those who burn out

This is an honest conversation about creativity, business, survival, and staying grounded while chasing success in entertainment and the arts.Follow Ramon Piquero / R54 Photos and be sure to subscribe to Jason Lanier Unfiltered for more conversations with photographers, creatives, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals from around the world.

Exploring Egypt: A Journey Through the Photographer’s Ultimate Dream Trip

In November of 2025, I took one of the most unforgettable journeys of my life.  Finally visiting Egypt. From standing in the shadow of the Great Pyramids to photographing ancient temples under the stars, this adventure was so much more than a photography trip. It was a reminder of how small we are in the timeline of humanity, and how powerful it is to experience places that have stood for thousands of years.

The adventure started with being the Keynote Speaker at the Creo Expo in Alexandria and then moved to the Capital city of Cairo.

I’m sharing the highs, the chaos, the moments behind the camera, the lessons learned, and the stories most people never get to hear. Traveling and photographing Egypt challenged me creatively, physically, emotionally, and spiritually in ways I never expected.

If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling the world with your camera, stepping outside your comfort zone, or experiencing history in a way books can’t teach you… this episode is for you.Sometimes the greatest photographs come after the greatest adventures.

#Egypt #PhotographyPodcast #TravelPhotography #JasonLanier #AdventurePhotography #PyramidsOfGiza #PhotographerLife #BehindTheLens #CreativeJourney #TravelAdventure #StreetPhotography #AncientEgypt #PhotographyEducation #WorldTraveler #PodcastEpisode #PhotographyLife #ExploreTheWorld #VisualStorytelling #TravelStories #Photographers

How to REBUILD When You LOSE IT ALL | From HBO & The White House to Starting Over – Scott Proposki

What happens when you reach the top… and then lose everything? In this episode of Jason Lanier Unfiltered, I sit down with Scott Proposki to talk about something most photographers never hear about—the fall.

Scott has worked with giants like HBO, National Geographic, and even the The White House. The kind of résumé most people spend a lifetime chasing. And then… it all went away. This isn’t a highlight reel conversation.

This is about reality. About losing momentum, losing opportunities, and facing the brutal question: now what? We dive into what it actually takes to rebuild—not just your business, but your mindset. How do you start over when your identity was tied to your success?

How do you push forward when the industry moves on without you? And what separates the people who come back stronger from the ones who disappear? If you’ve ever struggled, doubted yourself, or felt like you’re starting from scratch again… this episode is for you. Because success isn’t about never falling. It’s about what you do when everything you built is gone.

To learn more about Scott Proposki and his work please visit:

https://scottproposki.com/

#JasonLanierUnfiltered #ScottProposki #PhotographyPodcast #StartOver #RebuildYourself #CreativeEntrepreneur #PhotographyLife #Resilience #FailForward #EntrepreneurMindset #PhotographerLife #CareerRecovery #AdaptOrDie #RealTalk #NoFluff

STOP STEALING PHOTOS! The Beef Between Photo Stealers and Lynzie Hazan-BonPhotage

Read what Photo Stealers has to say about BonPhotage and the Allegations HERE

What if the photographer you hired never actually took the photos you booked them for? In this episode, we break down the controversy surrounding Bonphotage—a story that has ignited serious conversations across the photography industry.

What began as a single Reddit post quickly turned into a deep investigation by Photo Stealers, uncovering allegations of photo theft, AI-generated wedding imagery, and portfolios that may not reflect real work. We’re diving into:

• Claims of copyrighted images being used without permission

• AI-generated or heavily altered wedding photos

• The risks of trusting portfolios at face value

• How this impacts photographers, clients, and the future of the industry

This isn’t just about one company—it’s about a rapidly changing landscape where technology is blurring the line between real and fake. If you’re a photographer, this affects your credibility.
If you’re a client, this affects who you trust. And if you care about creative integrity… this conversation matters.

#Bonphotage #StopStealingPhotos #PhotographyEthics #AIPhotography #CreativeIntegrity #PhotoIndustry #CopyrightMatters #AIvsReality #PhotographyTruth #ExposeTheFake #WeddingPhotography #PhotographyBusiness #ContentAuthenticity #PhotographersLife

Adapt or Become Extinct: Reinventing When Your Industry Fades Away- Interview w/ Paul Gero

What do you do when the industry you built your career in starts to disappear? In this episode, I sit down with Paul Gero to break down what it really takes to pivot, adapt, and survive as a professional photographer in a rapidly changing world.

Paul’s journey began in the high-pressure world of photojournalism at the Chicago Tribune and continued through agencies like Sygma and publications including Arizona Republic, Time, People, and Sports Illustrated, industries that once defined success for photographers, but have since dramatically shifted or declined.

Instead of fading with them, Paul reinvented himself. We dive into how he transitioned into wedding photography, built a new business model, authored books like Digital Wedding Photography and Mastering Digital Wedding Photography, and expanded into education and purpose-driven work like The Kids of Orange County, supporting Children's Hospital of Orange County.

This episode isn’t just a career retrospective, it’s a blueprint. We talk about recognizing industry decline, leveraging transferable skills, building new revenue streams, and staying relevant when everything around you changes. Whether you’re a photographer facing uncertainty or a creative looking to evolve, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what’s possible.

You can follow Paul and his career journey by visiting: https://paulfgero.com/

#PhotographyBusiness #AdaptOrDie #CreativeEntrepreneur #PhotographyCareer #WeddingPhotography #Photojournalism #ReinventYourself #PhotographyEducation #VisualStorytelling #PhotographerLife #CreativeSuccess #BusinessOfPhotography

From the Wild to a Postage Stamp: Interview with the Wildlife Photography Legend Tom Murphy

What does it take to dedicate your life to photographing the wild, and do it with purpose, integrity, and impact? In this episode, I sit down with legendary wildlife photographer Tom Murphy, a Montana-based Yellowstone photographer whose work has not only captured the soul of the natural world, but has now earned the incredible honor of being featured on a United States postage stamp.

Tom shares his wild storeis of documenting Girzzly Bears, Bison, Gorillas, and more in his career that has spanned more than 40 years as a professional wildlife photographer.  He was also the first photographer ever to be licensed to teach photography workshops in the National Park system.

We dive deep into Tom’s journey—from how he first picked up a camera to building a lifelong career photographing wildlife across the globe. Along the way, we explore the ethics of wildlife photography, what it truly means to respect the animals and environments we photograph, and how to go beyond simply documenting animals to actually revealing who they are through behavior and storytelling.

Tom also shares the real truth about making money as a wildlife photographer, how to create lasting value in your work, and what it takes to sustain a career in one of the most challenging genres of photography. We also get personal—talking about lessons learned over decades, what he might do differently if he started over, and the advice he would give photographers chasing a similar path today. This is an inspiring, honest, and deeply insightful conversation about art, responsibility, and the wild places that shape us.

#WildlifePhotography #PhotographyPodcast #TomMurphy #NaturePhotography #WildlifePhotographer #PhotoEducation #PhotographyBusiness #PhotographyCareer #ConservationPhotography #AnimalBehavior #StorytellingThroughPhotography #OutdoorPhotography #TravelPhotography #PhotographyLife #CreativeEntrepreneur #PhotographyTips #PhotographyInspiration #LearnPhotography #ProPhotographer #VisualStorytelling #BehindTheLens #NatureLovers #WildlifeLovers #PhotographyInterview

From Weekend Warriors to wedding pros- 1 on 1 mentoring session

What does it really take to go from shooting weddings on the weekends… to building a full-time photography career?

In this episode, Jason Lanier and his assistant Krystal sit down with emerging photography duo Rebecca and Holly for a real, unfiltered mentorship session. Rebecca and Holly have spent years learning, assisting, and growing—but now they’re ready to take their small wedding business to the next level.

This episode dives deep into the exact challenges photographers face when trying to transition from a side hustle into a sustainable, full-time career. Together, they break down:

• How to network effectively in the wedding industry and build relationships that lead to bookings

• What to consider when adding video services to your photography business (and the challenges that come with it)

• How to market yourself properly through your website, email outreach, and personal branding

• The mindset shift required to stop being a “weekend warrior” and start thinking like a full-time professional

They also reflect on shared experiences from past shoots—including their unforgettable time at Six Flags New Orleans in 2024.

These moments highlight how powerful real-world experience, community, and mentorship can be in shaping your journey as a photographer. If you’re ready to stop playing small and start building a photography business that can support your life—this episode is for you.

#photographypodcast #weddingphotographer #photographybusiness #fulltimephotographer #photographymarketing #weddingphotographybusiness #creativeentrepreneur #photographylife #photographymentor #learnphotography #photographyeducation #behindthelens #photographytips #growyourbusiness #sidehustletofulltime #entrepreneurmindset #weddingindustry #networkingforphotographers #contentcreatorlife #videographytips #brandbuilding #smallbusinessgrowth #photographersofinstagram #shootandshare #creativebusiness #photographycommunity #buildyourbrand #fromhobbytocareer #photographyjourney #levelupyourlife

When things go Wrong Part 2: Mother Nature

Mother Nature has a way of taking over and laying to waste your best laid plans....

The team showed up.
The models were ready.
Hair, makeup, and creatives all delivered.

And then the environment took over. In this episode, Jason and his assistant Krystal take you deep into the Florida Everglades, where unpredictable weather, intense heat, unstable terrain, and the raw power of nature became the biggest obstacles of the shoot. This wasn’t about unreliable people — this was about adapting when everything around you refuses to cooperate. They break down what it really takes to create in extreme conditions, including:

• Working through heat, humidity, and rapidly changing weather

• Navigating difficult terrain and unpredictable environments

• Adjusting lighting techniques when conditions aren’t ideal

• Keeping your team safe while still pushing for great results

• Turning uncontrollable الظروف into creative opportunities

This episode is a raw, honest look at what happens when preparation meets reality — and how the best photographers don’t fight the environment… they learn to work with it.

👉 If you missed Part 1, go back and listen to the Las Vegas episode where the challenge was people. This time, it’s nature.

🎧 Follow the podcast for more real-world insights.
📺 Subscribe on YouTube for full behind-the-scenes footage from the Everglades shoots.
📅 Join an upcoming workshop and experience these challenges firsthand. Because in photography… something will always go wrong. It’s how you respond that defines your work.

When Things Go Wrong on a Photo Shoot (Part 1): The Human Element in Las Vegas

You can scout the perfect location. You can plan every shot. You can build the dream team. …but what happens when the people you’re counting on don’t show up, show up late, or don’t deliver?

In Part 1 of this 2-part series, Jason and his assistant Krystal break down the real challenges of producing large-scale photo shoots when the human element becomes the biggest obstacle.

Drawing from their intense 4-day Las Vegas experience, they share what it’s like dealing with unreliable talent, shifting dynamics on set, and the pressure of keeping everything moving when things start falling apart. This episode dives deep into:

• Managing no-shows, lateness, and communication breakdowns

• Keeping your shoot alive when key people fail you

• Leadership under pressure and making fast decisions

• How to adapt creatively when your original vision isn’t possible

• Why your core team matters more than anything

This isn’t theory — this is real-world, behind-the-scenes insight from photographers who’ve lived it. If you’re planning workshops, styled shoots, or large productions… this episode might save your next shoot. 👉 Be sure to FOLLOW the podcast so you don’t miss Part 2, where everything goes right with the people… but the environment turns against us in the Florida Everglades.

For more information about Jason Lanier Unfiltered Podcast please visit:

www.jasonlanier.com/podcast

📺 Subscribe on YouTube for full behind-the-scenes footage.
📅 Check out upcoming workshops and come experience it for yourself.

#jasonlanier #jasonlanierphotography #travelpodcast #lasvegas #learnphotography #photogaphypodcast #PhotographyPodcast #HumanElement #PhotoShootProblems #BehindTheScenesPhotography #PhotographyLife #CreativeEntrepreneur #PhotographyBusiness #ShootProduction #WorkingWithModels #PhotographyEducation #RealWorldPhotography #ContentCreators #LeadershipInPhotography #PhotographyTips #CreativeDirection #PhotographersOfInstagram #SetLife #ProductionLife #StoryBehindTheShot #LearnPhotography

From Attendee to Speaker: How to succeed at Photography Expos & Conventions

Are you attending photography expos… or are you ready to start speaking at them? 🎤📸

In this episode of the podcast, Jason and his assistant Krystal break down their recent experiences at major photography conventions — sharing real-world insight on what it takes to stand out, build meaningful brand relationships, and deliver presentations that truly impact photographers.

If you’ve ever wondered how speakers land expo stages or how you can take your photography career to the next level through live events… this episode is for you. 🚀

🎧 Listen now and start turning convention attendance into career momentum.

In this episode, Jason and his assistant Krystal share behind-the-scenes stories and lessons from their recent travels speaking, networking, and creating at major photography events. They discuss the mindset needed to transition from attendee to presenter, how to build a personal brand that attracts speaking opportunities, and the importance of delivering value to everyone involved — from sponsors and event organizers to the photographers sitting in the audience.

You’ll learn practical strategies for:
✨ Getting invited to speak at expos and conventions
✨ Building relationships with brands in an authentic and professional way
✨ Designing presentations that educate, inspire, and create lasting impact
✨ Making the most of networking opportunities on and off the expo floor
✨ Standing out in a crowded industry through consistency and purpose

Whether you’re new to conventions or ready to step onto the stage yourself, this conversation will help you navigate the expo world with confidence and clarity.

#PhotographyPodcast #PhotographyEducation #PhotographyConvention #PhotographyExpo #WPPI #AVCExpo #PhotographySpeaker #PublicSpeakingTips #PhotographyBusiness #CreativeEntrepreneur #PhotographerLife #ProPhotographer #PhotographyCareer #BuildYourBrand #PersonalBranding #PhotographyCommunity #NetworkingForPhotographers #PhotographyWorkshop #LearnPhotography #PhotographyMentor #SpeakerLife #ConferenceSpeaker #ContentCreatorLife #CreativeBusiness #LevelUpYourCareer #InspireCreateEducate #PhotographyIndustry #PodcastLife #EntrepreneurMindset #JasonLanierUnfiltered

Why I Stopped Using Rotolight/Trying Out Godox for the First Time | New Orleans Power Plant Shoot (Video/Podcast Companion)

For the first time in over a decade, I stepped onto a shoot using LED lights that weren’t Rotolight. And in this episode of Jason Lanier Unfiltered, we talk about exactly why.

This podcast is a deep dive companion to the video dropping tomorrow where I photograph the amazing Krystal in front of the abandoned power plant and French Quarter in New Orleans using Godox LED lighting in both daytime and nighttime conditions. The shoot pushed the lights through a full range of real-world scenarios—harsh daylight, dramatic dusk, and low-light night shooting.

In this conversation, Krystal and I pull back the curtain on everything that led to this change after so many years. I explain why I stopped using Rotolight, what drew me toward the Godox ecosystem, and my first impressions using these LEDs on a real-world shoot where lighting had to perform in challenging environments.

We also discuss the creative process behind the shoot—working with ambient light, shaping light with LEDs, posing and storytelling, and what it’s like photographing in front of one of the most dramatic industrial backdrops in New Orleans.

If you’re curious about LED lighting for photography, how it compares to flash, or you just want to hear the honest story behind a big gear change after many years—this episode is for you.

And if you want to learn even more, come see me live this weekend in Miami! I’ll be speaking at the AVC Expo on:
📅 Friday, March 13
📅 Saturday, March 14

www.avcstore.com

Come say hello, learn about lighting, and let’s create together

#JasonLanier #JasonLanierUnfiltered #GodoxLED #LEDLighting #PhotographyPodcast #OffCameraLighting #GodoxLighting #PhotographyEducation #BehindTheScenes #NewOrleansPhotography #IndustrialPhotography #CreativeLighting #AVCExpo #MiamiPhotography #PhotographersLife #ModelPhotography #KrystalKadaver

Dancing in the Rain: Behind the Scenes in Muir Woods for a Fashion Photo Shoot

In this episode, photographer Jason Lanier and his Model Assistant/Muse pull back the curtain on an unforgettable rain-soaked shoot in the legendary Muir Woods National Park. What happens when the skies open up in one of the most iconic redwood forests in the world? Instead of packing up, you lean in. Jason breaks down how he used the Godox AD300 as his off-camera flash to cut through the mist and sculpt dramatic light in a dim, rain-drenched environment. Together, they discuss the real behind-the-scenes moments—the adjustments, the laughter, the challenges, and the magic that happens when preparation meets opportunity. Inside this episode:

• 🌧️ How to confidently handle a photoshoot in the rain

• ⚡ Using off-camera flash to create depth and separation in low-light forest conditions

• 🎭 Posing and storytelling techniques in challenging outdoor environments

• 🎒 Protecting your camera gear and lighting equipment during wet shoots

• 🌟 Turning unpredictable conditions into creative advantage

• 💡 Mindset shifts that help you succeed as a creative when things don’t go as planned

This isn’t just about photography—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and making the most of every opportunity that crosses your path. If you’ve ever wondered whether to cancel or create when conditions get tough… this episode is your answer.

Wildlife Photogaphy- Face to Face with a Grizzly and her Cubs Lessons from Haines, Alaska

In this episode of Jason Lanier Unfiltered, I sit down with my good friend Scott Porter to recap our unforgettable trip to Haines, Alaska. We went there to photograph grizzly bears hunting for salmon along the Chilkoot River, and the experience delivered more than we ever imagined.

From discussing the gear that got us the shots, to safety tips for navigating bear country, to the dynamics of working alongside the public and other photographers in high-stakes situations, this conversation is packed with real-world lessons for photographers and adventurers alike. The trip culminated in a heart-pounding moment when I came face to face with a Mama Grizzly searching for her cubs after a long day of fishing. It was raw, real, and unforgettable. If you’ve ever dreamed of photographing wildlife or want to know what it’s really like to be just a few feet away from one of nature’s most powerful animals, you won’t want to miss this one. 🎧 Show Notes:

• Why Haines, Alaska is a premier spot for grizzly bear photography

• The gear we relied on (and what we wished we had brought)

• Staying safe and respectful in bear country

• How to navigate the challenges of photographing alongside crowds and other photographers

• Storytelling through wildlife photography: capturing the environment and the emotion

• The unforgettable moment Jason came face to face with a Mama Grizzly

• Lessons we’ll carry forward for future wildlife encounters

Sex with the Angry Marmalade Woman- tales from skagway, alaska

In this episode, I sit down with my buddy and fellow photographer Scott, and we hit record on a no-holds-barred talk that feels like you're right there with us on the road in Skagway, Alaska.

We share stories as to what it's like to work in this crazy and remote place… to navigating the unpredictable world of photography, dealing with celebrity clients including one unforgettable encounter with Bill Cosby.

This episode dives into the highs, lows, and hilarious in-betweens of life behind the lens. We kick things off with a story you’ll never forget… let’s just say it involves a one-night stand, a jar of marmalade, and a very angry woman. Yep, it's that kind of show.

So sit back, relax, and get ready for some unfiltered fun—and maybe even pick up a few gems that’ll help you become a better photographer along the way. Let’s go.
Chapter Markers and Show Notes:

• 2:00: What it's like to live in Skagway

• 7:00- Sex with the Angry Marmalade Woman

• 17:00- Skagway is a place where people come to escape

• 29:00- Bill Cosby

• 35:00 Going to Cuba together on a workshop

• 37:30- Street Photography in Cuba

• 39:00- what it's like to visit and eat in Cuba

• 40::00- Photographing the tobacco farm workers in Cuba

• 41:00- Horses getting washed in ponds 

• 42:15- You'll never regret spending money on memories

• 43:30- Selling prints in the stores of Skagway

• 46:35- How to Get Yourself Out There

• 48:45- How to Create Repeat Business

• 50:30- Going to the Police Station in Cuba

• 56:00- Trying to Get it Right in the Camera

• 57:00- Pairing Great Talent with the Right Gear

• 58:30- How Cellphones are Threatening Traditional Cameras

• 60:30- Using the horizon in your outdoor portraiture

• 64:00-: How Your Mouth is your Greatest Weapon

• 69:00- Handling Rejection as a Creative and Business Owner

• 70:00-Thinking of Photography as a Luxury Item

• 72:00- How A.I. is impacting the photography world

• 76:00- How Your Vision is Something A.I. Can't Replicate

• 77:00- Finding the Clients that Love Your Work

• 78:00- How Distribution is Key to Success

• 79:00- Growing as a Photographer

• 82:00- Starting at the Bottom to Grow Your Brand

• 82:30- The Importance of Self Awareness and Getting Corrected

• 84:30- Understanding Why You're Getting No's

• 85:00- Customizing What Your Client Wants

• 86:00- The Importance of Asking Questions

• 87:00- Identifying the Can't Miss Shots

• 89:45- Why You Need to Invest in Your Photography Education

• 91:00- The Consequences of Not Asking Questions

• 92:00- You Get What you Pay For

• 94:30- How To Grow Your Business by What You've Learned

• 95:00- Turnaround Times as a Photographer

• 96:00- Being Selective with the Work you Book

• 97:15- Paying Models Etiquette

• 98:30- Time Management as a Photographer

• 99:30- Pre Shoot Etiquette with a Model

• 99:50- Having a Purpose to Your Shoots

• Summary- Changing the Pace in Alaska

Sony Rx1Riii- The Gear Trap: Photography's Costly Delusion

When Is Enough Truly Enough? The Gear Madness Continues with the Sony Rx1Riii- New Podcast Episode Just DROPPED!

You can also use the QR code to go directly to the episode in. Apple Podcasts.

At what point do we draw the line? $5,100 for a fixed-lens point-and-shoot? The Sony RX1R III might look slick, but it's yet another example of the gear arms race spiraling into absurdity.

Yes—gear can help. But it doesn’t make the photographer. The obsession with the next big thing is costing people real opportunities to grow with what they already have.

This isn’t about bashing brands—it’s about calling out the illusion that you need the newest, most expensive toy to create powerful, lasting work. You don’t.

Let’s talk about it:
🔸 When is enough… enough?
🔸 What gear do you actually need to create your best work?
🔸 Is the RX1R III a serious tool—or just a $5,000 flex?

Drop your thoughts below. Let’s have a real convo about priorities, purpose, and getting back to creating.

In this episode/post, we dive into the escalating gear obsession in the photography world. Using the Sony RX1R III's eyebrow-raising $5,100 price tag as a jumping-off point, we ask the big question: When is enough gear truly enough?

From camera flex culture to the pressure of keeping up with the "latest and greatest," this is a call to reevaluate what really matters. Spoiler alert: It’s not always what’s in your camera bag.

Don't forget to rate, review and subscribe!

#EnoughIsEnough #SonyRX1RIII #GearDoesntMakeThePhotographer #PhotographyTruth #PhotographerTalk #RealTalkPhotography #CameraObsession #PhotographyLife #CreateWithWhatYouHave #OverpricedGear #PhotographerMindset #UnfilteredPhotography #JasonLanierUnfiltered #GearMadness #DoMoreWithLess #jasonlanier #jasonlanierphotography #photographerpodcast #photogarphypodcast #photographygear

Ask Me ANYTHING! AI, DJI Drones Go Missing, Losing Weight, Gear Recommendations

You asked. I answered.
This episode is a wild ride—nothing off limits and no BS. From the impact of AI on photography, to my take on the best drones and camera gear right now… all the way to my personal weight loss journey and everything in between. If you sent in a question, there’s a good chance I answered it here.

🎧 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts
📺 Watch the full video version on my YouTube channel

👉 www.jasonlanier.com/podcast

Let’s get real—photography, tech, health, hustle. All of it.

Tag a friend who needs to hear this one.

📄 Podcast Description:

In this special AMA (Ask Me Anything) episode of the Jason Lanier Photography Unfiltered Podcast, I answer a flood of questions straight from you—my audience. We go deep into:

• 📸 How AI is changing the photography game

• 🚁 My current favorite DJI drones

• 🎒 Must-have gear and camera setups

• 🧠 Mental discipline and my personal weight loss journey

• 🎤 Plus some real talk on career, creativity, and staying relevant in today’s world

If you love gear talk, honest advice, and hearing the behind-the-scenes truth of this industry, this one’s for you.

Watch the video version on YouTube, or listen wherever you get your podcasts. No filters, no fluff—just real answers.

#JasonLanierPodcast #PhotographyPodcast #AskMeAnything #DJIDrones #CameraGear #AIinPhotography #WeightLossJourney #RealTalkPhotography #YouTubePodcast #ApplePodcasts #SpotifyPodcasts #BehindTheLens #UnfilteredCreative #PhotoGearTalk #PhotographerLife #ContentCreatorTips

🎯 Relevant Tags:

Jason Lanier Photography Podcast Ask Me Anything AMA Photography DJI Drones 2025 Best Photography Gear AI and Photography Camera Gear Talk Photography Q&A Photography Advice Weight Loss Journey Photographer Health Creative Life Unfiltered Photography Podcast Sony Camera Tips DJI Drone Tips Content Creator Tips Behind the Lens Photography Inspiration YouTube Photography Podcast for Photographers Apple Podcasts Photography Spotify Photography Podcast Photography Business Real Talk Photography

Abandoned Beauty: A Model’s Story of Shooting at Six Flags New Orleans with Jason Lanier

The "Jason Lanier Unfiltered" podcast is where real talk meets raw creativity, offering unfiltered conversations about photography, life, and the wild journey in between. Host Jason Lanier invites people he works with to share their experiences, making for enlightening and fun discussions. In this particular episode, Jason speaks with model Krystal Kadaver, who has been modeling since she was 18 and has been a frequent collaborator on Jason's project at Six Flags New Orleans.

The conversation delves into Krystal's experiences modeling at the abandoned Six Flags park, from seeing its transformation from a Jurassic Park like abanbdoned location to it's current half demolished state.

They talk about navigating the challenging environment, including "MRSA water," mosquitoes, and alligators. They discuss the importance of communication between photographers and models, the significance of a photographer having a clear vision, and the role of models as muses who should bring their own creativity and adaptability to a shoot. Krystal shares advice for new models, emphasizing research, bringing a friend (a "Jen" who can help, and being prepared to get dirty.

They also touch on the challenges and rewards of being a creative and balancing it with personal life, highlighting the need for a supportive partner who understands the passion for creation.... The podcast emphasizes the unique and adventurous nature of shoots with Jason Lanier, where "it's an experience, not just a photo shoot.

Chapter Markers
00: Intro
35: Introduce Guest Star Krystal
5:30: What did you think about shooting at Six Flags prior to doing the shoot?
6:35: What was it like shooting with me from an expectation vs. reality standpoint?
7:45: The Importance of Communicating as a model and a photographer BEFORE the shoot
12:07: Struggling to find creative outfits and looks as a photographer
14:15: What makes it a no go for Jason with models and communication
15:36: The Synergy of Creation
16:05: What it means to be a Muse
18:18- How to Not Cheat Yourself out of Great Shots
20:29: Working with Jason compared to working with other photographers
21:30- The Importance of Giving Directions to a Model
22:45- How Male Photographers Should Appropriately Compliment a Female Model
26:40: How Female Photographers Communicate Differently Than Male Photographers
27:25: Learning a Model's Boundaries as a Photographer
29:39: Favorite Shoots we did at Six Flags New Orleans
32:36: What Advice would you give to models that haven't shot with Jason before?
34:35: Setting Off Chinese Dynamite
35:57: What Advice would you give to newer models?
36:13: Bringing a friend or escort to a shoot
41:00: Shooting with Multiple Models on one set
45:21: Having a personal life as a creative
47:39: Feeling the most alive as a creative
51:35: The Importance of Being Who you are as a creative when you're in a relationship
53:58: What a Great Photo Shoot should feel like
55:40: The Importance of Staying Positive on a Shoot
59:00: Wrap up and Future Projects

Working with Models- How to Find, Shoot and Create Amazing Work- Feat. Sophia Baser

Learn how to find, set up shoots, and work with models in this episode that features an interview that Jason does with Sophia Baser, a New Orleans based model that he has worked with for many years.

Jason and Sophia discuss some of the pitfalls to avoid as well as some great tips to add to your arsenal when you are looking to start working more with models for your photography work.

They share stories on experiences they've encountered while working with each other and other creatives in the industry. Lots of great information in here for those who might struggle with this or don't even know where to get started.

You can follow Sophia on Insagram @baser.sophia and follow Jason @jasonlanierphotography

To see all of the Jason Lanier Unfiltered episodes please visit www.jasonlanier.com/podcast

Don't forget to share, download and subscribe to the podcast!

Starting a Photography Career-a Conversation with my 3 Adult Sons

Jason brings on his 3 adult sons who are at the very beginning stages of their photography careers to discuss some of the key steps of starting your career as a photographer. They discuss some of the anxiety, fears, hopes, goals and dreams of what it will take to become a successul creative and content creator.

It's a hard business to make a full time living and Jason is sharing his secrets to success not only with his sons, but also with all of YOU!

This podcast was recorded during the middle of a roadtrip that Jason has taken with his sons to help train them not only in the technical and creative aspects of photography, but also to show them what the REAL photographer's life is like apart from the glitz and glamour that we see on social media and TV.

Don't forget to share the episode with others out there and thanks in advance for any reviews you can provide for the podcast!

Ask Me Anything- How to NOT Burn Out, Handling Picky Clients, and Global Shutters

Ask ME ANYTHING! This podcast features Jason speaking with a group of photographers online at the conclusion of one of his livestream sessions where he opens the forum for them to ask him anything related to the world of photography. The answers are raw, true and there's a lot of fun thrown in there as well.

Topics include:

*How To NOT burn out
*When to shoot for yourself vs. for a client
*How to Handle Picky Clients
*How to Control and Direct a Shoot
*How to Choose the Right Gear for the Right Job
*Global Shutters vs. High Speed Sync
*LED's vs. Strobes

And MORE!

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