Focused Professional

Antonio Bernardino Coelho - Abstract, Buildings, Commercial & more

In episode 26 we chat with award-winning photographer Antonio Bernardino Coelho from Portugal. Antonio has gathered numerous accolades from international photography competitions, including the prestigious Sony Awards and the Society of Photographers. In this interview he shares how he takes inspiration from everything - big or small.
Antonio juggles family life, working as an engineer and his various hobbies and interests including his passion for photography yet still manages to produce high quality images that wow judges. He is both artist and scientist, observer and storyteller with a variety of influences that have fuelled his ever-evolving style. Most known for still life and architectural images, it all began with a trip to Cuba and a fascination with its culture.
His attitude is to give things a go - just try! So we find a diverse portfolio that showcases many genres, all done to a high level. His art draws on his personality and his values, delivering clear, uncluttered messages to the viewer. From fungi in the local countryside to architecture in the city and home to his tabletop creations, Antonio brings his take on the world around him.
We invite you to listen to hear the stories behind popular series such as "State of Mind", how a bucket of staples led to a conceptual cityscape and his big dreams of travelling if he gets the chance. Join us for this exclusive rare interview.
All images © Antonio Bernardino Coelho - used here with permission
Discover more of Antonio's work on Instagram
 

Top Dog Pet Tog - Jessica McGovern

Welcome to episode 25 of the Focused Professional Podcast. In this episode, Joe chats with Jessica McGovern, a renowned pet photographer and Fellow of both the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP) and the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers (SWPP). As well as the challenges of running multiple businesses, Jessica & her husband have taken on a huge renovation project in Scotland. We find out how that is going and the benefits she is reaping for her mental health.
Jessica loves animals and is able to form a rapid and strong rapport with dogs that allows her to create stunning images that have won her numerous awards and photographer of the year titles. She also loves to learn and devours new knowledge from practical hands-on land management to textbooks on psychology. Her energy and enthusiasm extends to her online mentoring groups in That Tog Spot, where she helps other photographers to develop their skills and businesses, and her students have gone on to become award-winners in their own right.
Our in-depth discussion leads us through how to get the most out of our strengths and considers the balance between building a business that works for ourselves as well as our target market. Jessica also speaks about some of the challenges as well as the advantages of her autistic mind, inviting us all to consider what "unfair advantages" we might bring into our businesses as well as the difficulties we can face. 
Jessica reveals how her training as a competition judge has affected the way she views her own images. Everything she does is analysed and a strategy is formed to help her reach her goals. Listen in for valuable insights into overcoming limitations, finding fulfilment and the ever-present complexities of communication between different minds. 
To see more of Jessica's work please visit her website. For details of her teaching and mentoring go to That Tog Spot. You can also follow on Instagram and find her videos on YouTube.
All images © Jessica McGovern - used here with permission
Find out more about strengths and how to discover and use them on Joe's strengths coach page.

Cracking Headshots with Hannah Couzens

In Episode 24 Joe is joined by portrait and headshot specialist Hannah Couzens. A Sony camera ambassador, Profoto educator, and award-winning business owner known for her live stage demonstrations, Hannah is a leading light in the photography world. Listen as she shares her passion for teaching and offers insights into achieving powerful portraits. For her, sharing knowledge and experience is vital for the ongoing health of our industry.
Hannah is a natural whether working one to one or speaking on stage in front of hundreds of people. Her friendly, straightforward manner help her to connect with everyone from photography beginners to seasoned celebrities coming for a headshot. She is keen for people to learn in depth, not just copying shots but being able to have real control to create their own masterpieces.
Balancing professional life with personal commitments is a challenge for any professional and Hannah shares how becoming a parent has reshaped her approach to work and business. She discusses the stress and pressures of being self-employed in the photography industry, offering insights into how she copes and manages her busy schedule. Whether it is in response to new technology, our evolving industry or changes in her own life, Hannah adapts and keeps moving forward, leading the way for others.
There are many skills needed to be a consistently high quality portrait photographer. As well as the technical side, Hannah emphasises the importance of empathy, connecting with the subject and helping people to feel at ease. She adapts her approach to suit the situation, whether that is for a confident executive, busy celebrity or fearful individual struggling with being in front of the camera. This episode is packed full of important lessons for aspiring photographers and professionals alike. Hannah provides practical tips on building a successful photography business, connecting with clients, and staying true to your style. Whether you're an experienced photographer or just starting out, listen in to learn and be inspired.
Visit Hannah Couzens' website
Keep up with her regular news on Instagram
All images © Hannah Couzens - used here with permission

World Wedding Photography Legend Sanjay Jogia

Welcome to episode 23 of the Focused Professional Podcast. Join us for a deep conversation between host Joe Lenton and one of the world's elite wedding photographers, Sanjay Jogia from Eye Jogia Photography. Sanjay has been recognised as one of the top six wedding photographers in the world. He is a Master Photographer with The Society of Wedding & Portrait Photographers and an ambassador for many brands including Canon, Calibrite and Tether Tools. Find out what this involves - the perks, the responsibilities and the opportunities for helping to develop the camera equipment of the future. If you are a Canon photographer you might discover that he is responsible for some of your favourite camera features!
This episode goes from super-geeky technicalities to the philosophical and emotional basis of Sanjay's work. From dealing with stress and the pressure of being at the top of the industry to ongoing personal growth, Sanjay shares deeply and openly from his personal journey.
Personal tragedies can be formative for artists and both Joe and Sanjay are no exception to this. Listen to how they have harnessed trauma for their ongoing growth and forge ahead, refusing to give up. 
Drop in on this fascinating discussion with Sanjay for valuable lessons, inspiration and deep reflection. If you are interested in capturing powerful emotions through your lens and you want to be an authentic artist then this episode is for you.
All images © Sanjay Jogia - used here with permission

Streets Ahead with Ross Grieve

In this episode Joe chats with Ross Grieve FSWPP. Ross is an ambassador for several brands including Lumix, Hobolite and Calibrite. He has an impressive track record in competitions, including 3 wins of the Welsh Portrait Photographer of the Year. From his early days back in New Zealand to his current home in Wales, Ross has had a passion for photography in various forms. From bungee jumping to weddings, portraits to food, he has worked professionally in a variety of contexts. 
Prints are very important to Ross and he encourages listeners to get their work printed to appreciate how special physical images can be for both the creator and customers. Can he convince you of their power too? 
One genre that he is particularly well known for in international competitions and among art collectors is street photography. He takes us through some telling experiences that have shaped his approach and how he views the ethics of this sometimes contentious art form. Ross shares some simple but effective tips for staying on the right side of people, choosing which gear to use when out and about and how to go about making money from street photography.
All images ©Ross Grieve - reproduced here with permission
Take a look at Ross Grieve's website www.rossgrieve.com
Follow Ross on Instagram

Photography on the Wild Side - Frankie Adamson

We kick off Season 3 of the Focused Professional Podcast with wildlife and pet photographer Frankie Adamson. She recently won both the wildlife photographer of the year and the overall photographer of the year titles with the Society of Photographers. Her dramatic image "Kiss of Death" stunned the judges and is continuing to wow audiences around the world (see below). 
Former teacher Frankie has a lifelong passion for animals. Whether photographing people's dogs in a city centre or lions on the plains in Africa, she uses her understanding of animal behaviour to help her craft her award-winning images. Having recently moved back to the UK from Hong Kong, she is using her success and ongoing personal projects to establish herself as a go-to expert in her area. Drawing on the support of the photography community, Frankie is building her business and finding new challenges to keep herself growing. 
Whether you're an aspiring photographer, a wildlife enthusiast or a professional photographer keen to learn from others' experiences, this episode will give you insight into Frankie Adamson's career and approach to her photography. Experience her passion for the natural world and her joy at creating lasting works of art for dedicated pet owners.
Images ©Frankie Adamson - used with permission
See more of her work and keep up with the latest news on her websites and Instagram accounts:
http://www.thewildlifeside.com/ - Instagram @the.wildlife.side
https://www.photographybyfrankie.com/ - Instagram @photography.byfrankie 
 

An Expat Artist in Asia - Peter Rooney

Our guest for episode 20 is Peter Rooney, a renowned creative portrait photographer originally from the UK, currently living in Thailand. He joins us to discuss his creative journey and his varied experiences as a British expat living and working overseas. Peter has won numerous accolades for his work, including a Fellowship with the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP) and winning the MPA  (Master Photographers Association) International Photographer of the Year in both 2018 and 2019. He has also represented his country on more than one occasion for the World Photographic Cup.
In this episode, Peter takes us through his journey from the UK to Brunei, Malaysia, Bahrain, and finally Thailand. He shares his experiences of living and working in different cultures, highlighting the challenges and unique aspects of each location. From the strict regulations in Brunei to the vibrant and multicultural scene in Malaysia, Peter explains how these environments impacted his photography.
Peter takes us through his creative process, from finding inspiration in unlikely places to his approach to lighting and retouching. He describes how he improvised models and materials to create composites during lockdown and talks us through a unique approach to a family portrait that became a hit among his fellow expats. 
Finding clients for his work is quite a different process compared to many UK-based businesses. His frequent change of location has meant rebuilding his client base from scratch several times. Nevertheless, he has found ways of connecting with people through a creative, fun angle on portraiture, helping clients overcome the usual nerves or self-conscious feelings when sitting for a photographer.
 
Images © Peter Rooney (Used here with permission)
 
Discover more of Peter's work on his website at peterrooneyphotography.com or follow him on Instagram at peterrooneyart. His impressive portfolio showcases a range of creative images that reflect his unique style and vision.
 
Sponsored by The Society of Photographers

Perfecting Pet Photography with Belinda Richards

In episode 19 we focus on pet photography with one of the world's top exponents of the genre. Australian photographer Belinda Richards has won many awards and titles for her work, including being The Society of Photographers overall photographer of the year in 2022. Belinda has worked with animals for many years and in different industries. Her time running a mobile dog grooming business and working for the local council in animal management have helped her to gain a deep insight into animal behaviour. She combines this extensive experience with her understanding of fine art and great camera skills to run an internationally renowned pet photography studio. 
All of this would have seemed unlikely in her childhood given her initial fear of dogs. But, she overcame it and developed a lifelong passion for them, eventually naming her studio after one of her former pets. Her background in animal welfare has equipped her with unique skills that she brings into her photography sessions, ensuring that animals feel comfortable and relaxed.
Belinda's academic journey took her from the technical aspects of photography to aesthetics and fine art, all of which are evident in her work today. She is also interested in business and understands the importance of good marketing. Whether it is her competition images or finding new ways to reach new clients, Belinda is relentlessly creative. She builds in both the more profitable aspects of her work and time to create in order to keep both herself and her business healthy.
The combination of hard work, talent and a creative use of her unique skills and experience have made Belinda Richards one of the most respected pet photographers in the world. All of this comes from a place of passion - doing the work not just for money but for the love of it. 
 
Images ©Belinda Richards (used here with permission)
To keep up with Belinda's work and her latest projects, you can visit her business website at frogdogstudios.com.au or her personal creative website at belindarichards.com. You can also follow her on social media platforms under the handles @BelindaRichardsArtist or @FrogDogStudios.
 
Sponsored by The Society of Photographers

Storytelling That Changes Lives - Sean Gallagher on Photojournalism

In Episode 18, Joe interviews Sean Gallagher, an independent photographer and filmmaker based in China. A fellow of the Royal Geographic Society with a passion for environmental issues, Sean is a multi-award-winning photojournalist whose work has appeared in National Geographic and on CNN. 
After studying zoology, Sean stumbled upon photography by discovering an old family camera. His growing passion led him to teach himself how to develop his own prints and inspired him to seek out an internship at Magnum Photos. His time there fuelled his interest in photojournalism and gave him the opportunity to learn from some of the best in the field.
Sean tells us how he came to live in China, driven by a fascination sparked by his father's stories of the country. He shares the challenges and rewards of building a career telling stories through images. Discover how he builds key relationships with both local communities and potential buyers. This isn't just a job for Sean - we get a real sense of passion for the stories he tells and a deep belief in the difference photojournalism can make to international issues.
Joe and Sean delve into the ethics of photojournalism, the role of awards, and the impact of storytelling through visuals. Sean offers insights into the technical and emotional aspects of his work, emphasizing the importance of being in the moment and the power of photography to cast light on global issues such as the climate crisis.
Whether you're an aspiring photojournalist or simply interested in what goes into creating compelling storytelling images, Sean's story is educational and inspiring.
 
Images © Sean Gallagher (Used here with permission)
 
To see more of Sean's work, please visit his website: gallagher-photo.com. You can also follow him on Instagram. For photography tips check out his educational YouTube channel, where you can also find his podcast "The Camera Doesn't Matter," featuring interviews with other photojournalists.
 
Sponsored by The Society of Photographers
 

Wedding Photography Passion with Fiona Elizabeth

Fiona Elizabeth joins us to share her unexpected journey into wedding photography and the challenges she's faced along the way. Discover how Fiona balances the artistic and business aspects of her work and also helps others to do so through her Wedding Photographer Mentor programme. She is passionate about helping others to create successful wedding photography businesses, providing guidance and support drawn from her years of experience. 
Hear the stories behind her impactful personal projects, including a poignant photographic essay based on the struggles of those living in a refugee camp in Calais. Her time there clearly moved her deeply and left a lasting impact on her as an artist and as a person. She then takes us on the road to her Fellowship in fine art with her "Atrophy" project. Inspired by the housing crisis and the many houses left empty and falling into disrepair, Fiona created a series of images with models on location that was to become her successful Fellowship qualification panel. 
We also touch on the difficulties of imposter syndrome - even in the face of great success winning a category award in the Icon photography competition in Vegas and working as a judge at The Society of Photographers Convention. Fiona shares openly and honestly in this exclusive interview.  
Images © Fiona Elizabeth (used here with permission)
 
The Wedding Photography Mentor website
 
Fiona's Instagram
 
Sponsored by The Society of Photographers