The MOOD Podcast

Matt Jacob

In The MOOD Podcast, Matt Jacob, renowned cultural portrait photographer, dives deep into the world of photography and the visual arts, with guests from all around the creative industry, across all parts of the globe, sharing inspiring stories and experiences that will leave you wanting more. With years of experience and a passion for storytelling, Matt has become a master of capturing lesser-told human stories through his photography, and teams up with other special artists from around the world to showcase insights, experiences and opinions within the diverse and sometimes controversial photography world.
You can watch these podcasts on his Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay.
You can also follow Matt's work on his Instagram @mattyj_ay and his website: https://mattjacobphotography.com.

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Top 10 The MOOD Podcast Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The MOOD Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The MOOD Podcast for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The MOOD Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Corporate Ladder to Purposeful Storytelling - Pie Aerts, E042

The MOOD Podcast

04/02/24 • 90 min

In this episode of The Mood Podcast, I talked with Pie Aerts about his transformation from a man who channeled his corporate acumen into talents for portraying human impact narratives, raising millions for conservation along the way and capturing riveting stories of the coexistence between humans and nature, through the lens of his camera.
We also discussed his expeditions, grounded in respect and educational engagement, offering a lens through which one can view the delicate balance between preserving cultural heritage and navigating the challenges of modern influences. Beyond the art of photography, we talked about how passion can fuel purposeful change, using social media as a powerful tool for fundraising and fostering a global community committed to conservation - an instrument for good....for once...?
Inspirational and enjoyable for me, this episode I hope will evoke the same in you.
Find Pie's incredible work across his socials:
instagram: @because.people.matter, @pie_aerts
website: pieaerts.com
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Thank you for listening and for being a part of this incredible community. You can also watch this episode on my YouTube channel (link below) where I also share insights, photography tips and behind-the-scenes content on my channel as well as my social media, so make sure to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Threads and TikTok or check out my website for my complete portfolio of work.
YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@mattyj_ay
Learn with me
https://mattjacobphotography.com/learn
My Newsletter
https://mattjacobphotography.com/newsletter
Website:
www.mattjacobphotography.com
Socials:
IG | X | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | @mattyj_ay
yoreh.
www.yoreh.co

Why Creativity Beats Gear: the Art of Intent in Photography - Moments Of Mood, 1.8

The MOOD Podcast

08/20/24 • 21 min

In this new episode of Moments of Mood, we're taking a break from guest interviews to dive into another rant, by me. Yep, this time it's the incessant topic of the narrow focus we have around photography equipment...
Creativity beats gear, hands down, all the time. No exceptions. Born from a plethora of comments, messages and questions over years posting images, the most common questions I have received is "what camera/lens did you use" or "what settings did you use for this photo"?. I want to put forward why I'm a bit bored of this being the most popular question and why it is perceived so important for beginners in photography. I was that person, so I'm not judging any individual, more the system and societal constructs we (and the big manufacturers) have created around the sector. It detracts from so much potential beauty and creativity.
Driven by the belief that gear is the key to mastering photography, many photographers today forget that the real magic does not come from expensive equipment, but from the artist's vision, creativity and ability to capture stories. My rant also draws on insights from iconic photographers like Henri Cartier-Bresson or Annie Leibovitz, which are great examples of how understanding light, composition and 'moment' will always beat the technical features of a new camera.
Am I wrong to be fed up with this topic now?

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Capturing Cultures, Healing Minds: Sebastian Belaustegui, EO75

The MOOD Podcast

12/31/24 • 103 min

What does it mean to preserve a culture through photography in a world that is constantly changing? Sebastián Belaustegui, widely known as 'Suki', is a cultural photographer whose work spans over 3 decades, documenting the stories, traditions, and rituals of indigenous communities across Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
Through his portraits and projects like Guardians of Time, Suki has preserved cultural heritage while fostering empathy and understanding. His personal journey through profound mental health challenges has further shaped his life and work, inspiring resilience and authenticity in his art.
Highlights of my conversation with him:

Experiences with severe mental health struggles, including anxiety, depression, and recoveries from it.
The ethics of documenting indigenous communities and how to approach subjects with respect.
How to use photography to elevate the voices of underrepresented cultures and educate others.
The balance between raising awareness of indigenous populations and protecting them from overexposure.
Why the experience of creating a photograph is often more meaningful than the final image.
Teaching mindfulness, respect, and ethics in photography.
Building relationships with subjects before taking photographs.
Advice for photographers on slowing down, observing, and embracing the process over competition.

Find Suki's work on his channels:
Website: www.sebastian-suki-belaustegui.com
Instagram: @photosooky
Thank you to Luminar Neo for sponsoring this episode - get 25% discount on all their products here using the code MOODPODCAST25.
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Creating Through the Struggle: Dario Viegas, EO73

The MOOD Podcast

12/10/24 • 72 min

What keeps a creative person going despite setbacks?
Dario Viegas is a photographer and filmmaker who is celebrated for his minimalist style and keen eye for composition, as well as his ability to connect art with storytelling. From a challenging upbringing in Portugal to then living in various places around the world, Dario discovered his passion for photography through a life-altering journey whilst traveling the world, where in each destination he kept refining his craft and building his portfolio. As he opens up about the pressures of viral success in my conversation with him, Dario underscores the importance of staying true to one's passions against fleeting trends.
In this conversation:

How Dario's journey into creativity began.
The impact of his upbringing and early struggles on his artistic perspective.
His breakthrough moment with photography during his time traveling the world.
The pivotal role of social media in building his career and lessons learned about trends and authenticity.
The importance of curating work and finding one’s unique style in photography.
Insights into the evolving relationship between photography and videography in his career.
Advice for beginners on practicing, failing, and growing through repetition.
Dario’s future aspirations, including his plans for storytelling through video.

Find Dario Veigas' work on his channels:
Website: www.darioexplore.com
Instagram: @dario.explore
You Tube: @dario.explore
Thank you to Luminar Neo for sponsoring this episode - get 25% discount on all their products here using the code MOODPODCAST25.
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The Art of Filmmaking: 'Torn' and the Therapeutic Power of Storytelling, E037

The MOOD Podcast

02/27/24 • 65 min

In this episode of The MOOD Podcast, I talk with photographer and filmmaker Max Lowe. When Max opens up about his personal odyssey through the lens of his camera, it's hard not to be drawn into the profound depths of his storytelling. As we discuss his film 'Torn', an intimate exploration of his family's narrative in the wake of his father's tragic death, we're reminded of the raw power behind capturing life's complexities in art. In this profound conversation, we unlock the mysteries of character-driven narratives and the shifting tides of journalism, painting a picture of how personal tragedy can morph into a shared experience of catharsis and healing.
We also talk about his latest venture in documentary filmmaking, a moving piece called 'Camp Courage', a film of sanctuary for the souls touched by the conflict in Ukraine. Additionally, we discuss the delicate balance between creativity and public reception, the fine line between staying authentic to one's vision and embracing external perspectives, as well as the responsibility borne by filmmakers and journalists alike, underscoring the imperative to portray narratives with both integrity and factual accuracy, especially in a world rife with media distortion and fleeting news cycles.
What an honour it was to have Max on the show, such a talented and kind-hearted man and one that I hope will continue making larger and larger impacts in our lives.
Please explore Max's work through his platforms below:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/max.lowe
Website: www.maxlowemedia.com
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Navigating Stereotypes and Success in the Art World with John Raymond, E036

The MOOD Podcast

02/20/24 • 23 min

When I first stumbled upon John Raymond's mesmerising artwork at a hotel in Bali, little did I know that fate would bring us together on my podcast for an intimate exploration of his world. Listen as we unravel the vibrant threads of John's life as an abstract expressionist painter, whose journey from visual communication design to crafting emotive masterpieces is as colourful as his canvases. John walks us through the nuances of his artistic process, explaining how his inner musings are reflected in the deliberate emptiness of his work. His story is not just about the paint and the canvas, but also the stereotypes and challenges he bravely navigated in Bandung's art scene to boldly claim his space as an artist.
As John shares the triumphs and trials of his first solo exhibition and the strategic embrace of social media, we reach a consensus: success is personal, intrinsic, and measured by the depths of connection forged with an audience. It's a heartfelt testimony to the journeys artists embark upon, often speaking a language not their own, yet one that resonates universally with those who witness their creations.
Join us, and be inspired by the tale of an artist who paints not just pictures, but poignant stories that linger long after the colours dry. Furthermore, watch the YouTube video (link below) for this episode where we cover behind-the-scenes footage of John creating a painting for me in the studio.
Video link to John's painting in my studio:
https://youtu.be/vOXNAE-DDfg
Find links to John's work here:
Instagram: @johnraymondart
Youtube: @johnraymondart
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Alchemy of Light: Exploring Wet Plate Photography with Stephan Kotas, E033

The MOOD Podcast

01/23/24 • 83 min

Step into the shadowy dance of chemicals and light with Prague-born Stephan Kotas, as he unveils the transformative art of Wet Plate (Collodion) Photography amidst Indonesia's tropical landscape. Stephan draws us into his world, where the pursuit of travel photography morphed into a dedication to a craft that is as enchanting as it is exacting. His transition from the immediacy of digital to the deliberation of Wet Plate is not just a tale of artistic evolution but a homage to a medium that insists on intentionality with each frame.
Within the studio walls of our latest episode, we break down the process and intricacies of the entire Wet Plate process and its photographic cultural preservation, the rich tapestry of Indonesian heritage as its background. His large-format silver plates are not mere images; they are timeless narratives etched in silver, celebrating the beauty of imperfection and the authenticity of momentary capture. Stephan's commitment to eco-consciousness ties the past to the present, crafting a dialogue on how traditional methods can influence our digital dominion.
As we close this chapter, we extend our deepest appreciation to Stephan for sharing his passion and expertise. His venture into the rare art form of Wet Plate Photography challenges us to ponder the essence of time and the permanence of the images we hold dear. With a heart full of inspiration, I eagerly anticipate a personal glimpse into Stephan's studio, where the alchemy of wet plate photography comes alive, capturing history through the lens of the present.
Find Stephan's work on his platforms below:
Website: www.stephankotas.com
Instagram: @stephankotas_studio / @stephankotas
In Bali Stephan's work can be seen at Nyaman Gallery in Seminyak: www.nyamangallery.com
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Pandhu Waskitha - From Backpacker to humbled Photographer, E028

The MOOD Podcast

12/21/23 • 80 min

Pandhu Waskitha, aka 'Backpacker Tampan', is an Indonesian travel photographer with a heart for storytelling, and he shared with me his remarkable evolution from a backpacker sharing tales on 'ASKfm' to a social media sensation. He doesn't like to just snap photos—he weaves vibrant narratives that celebrate the spirit of adventure and the soul of places far and wide. My conversation with him peeled back the layers of Pandhu's artistry, revealing his battle for creative authenticity in an ever-changing digital landscape that's often more about the viral hit than the story behind it.
Navigating the tides of social media, he talked about the seismic shift from still images to the dizzying world of Instagram reels and TikTok's bite-sized content. Even as the ground shifts beneath our feet, he tries to stand firm, marrying his vision with the demands of new platforms without sacrificing the integrity of his work. Together, we uncover the delicate balance between embracing market trends and staying true to the craft, and how Pandhu's keen eye has captured more than just images, but the ethos of the communities and cultures he's encountered.
The episode culminates with a peek into Pandhu's philanthropic dreams and a touching reflection on travel's profound impact on personal growth. His stories are a mosaic of humanity, from the market vendor in Bali whose hope was kindled during tough times to the ambitious goal of building a school on Sumba Island. It's not just a conversation about photography; it's about the power to 'give back', the transformative lessons learned from each project, and a gratitude for the ability to inspire and be inspired. Join me for this thought-provoking episode that's as much about capturing the perfect shot as it is about cherishing the journey itself.
If you want to see more of Pandhu's work please visit his profiles below:
Instagram: @backpackertampan, YouTube: @BackpackerTampan,
TikTok: @backpackertampan
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From Monochrome Visions to Vibrant Ventures: The Odyssey of a Colourblind Photographer, E027

The MOOD Podcast

12/13/23 • 86 min

I'm excited to release this special episode celebrating the launch of my new brand 'Yoreh'. Together with my business partner, and this episode's guest, Fin Matson, we introduce the new label and invite you to join our discussion on the art of intention and embracing imperfection in art generally. With yoreh, you'll discover the intriguing connection between art, specialty coffee, jewellery and community, all under our roof of the innovative 'House of Yoreh'.
We of course did talk a lot about photography and Fin's journey throughout 2023 since we last spoke earlier in the year. He sheds light on his experience in the monochromatic realm and how it impacts his work. We also discussed the stress of balancing personal and commercial projects and the challenges of capturing the perfect shot under difficult lighting conditions, and working with friends on professional shoots. We've got first-hand experiences to share!
We wrapped up with a critical look at the current photography styles and standards in the digital age. We discuss some thought-provoking insights on the influence of social media and AI on the industry as well as Fin's recent transition from photography to entrepreneurship. Discover his experiences and learnings as he shares his journey of establishing our own jewellery brand, Yoreh.
Check out the links and description below for Yoreh and a discount code for your first purchase(s) with the label.
Enjoy!

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Change the Way you See: Art Wolfe, EO74

The MOOD Podcast

12/24/24 • 59 min

“My goal is nothing less than to change the way you see.” This powerful declaration from Art Wolfe, a world-renowned photographer, perfectly encapsulates his life’s mission of reshaping perspectives through the lens of photography.
Known for his breathtaking images of nature, wildlife, and diverse cultures, he has published over 100 books, hosted the Emmy-nominated TV series Travels to the Edge, and led numerous photography workshops across the globe. Art’s work is deeply rooted in conservation, blending his artistic vision with a commitment to preserving the planet.

Our conversation covered:

Art Wolfe’s artistic journey, from painting to photography.
How abstract expressionism influences his photography workshops.
Insights into his Emmy-nominated series Travels to the Edge and its impact on his career.
Challenges of navigating cultural sensitivities when leading workshops and tours.
The importance of finding beauty in unexpected places and developing a unique creative voice.
Why constant reinvention is crucial for growth as an artist.
The role of photography in global conservation efforts.
Lessons learned from decades of exploration, including hilarious mistakes like photographing without film.

Find Art Wolfe's work on his channels:
Website: www.artwolfe.com
Instagram: @artwolfe
You Tube: @artaolfephoto
Thank you to Luminar Neo for sponsoring this episode - get 25% discount on all their products here using the code MOODPODCAST25.
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FAQ

How many episodes does The MOOD Podcast have?

The MOOD Podcast currently has 87 episodes available.

What topics does The MOOD Podcast cover?

The podcast is about Photography, Art, Visual Arts, Content Creator, Podcasts, Self-Improvement, Education and Arts.

What is the most popular episode on The MOOD Podcast?

The episode title 'How to Transform and Heal through Creativity - Matt Costello, E045' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on The MOOD Podcast?

The average episode length on The MOOD Podcast is 72 minutes.

How often are episodes of The MOOD Podcast released?

Episodes of The MOOD Podcast are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of The MOOD Podcast?

The first episode of The MOOD Podcast was released on Mar 13, 2023.

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The MOOD Podcast

Matt Jacob

Top 10 The MOOD Podcast Episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does The MOOD Podcast have?

What topics does The MOOD Podcast cover?

What is the most popular episode on The MOOD Podcast?

What is the average episode length on The MOOD Podcast?

How often are episodes of The MOOD Podcast released?

When was the first episode of The MOOD Podcast?

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