The MOOD Podcast

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!

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

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

What does it truly mean to belong, and how do our stories shape the connections we make?
Benjamin Rasmussen is an acclaimed photographer whose work explores themes of identity, belonging, and societal narratives. With roots in the Faroe Islands, the Philippines, and the United States, Benjamin’s multicultural upbringing profoundly influences his storytelling. As well as his work being featured in publications such as The New Yorker, Time, and The Atlantic, Benjamin is also the author of the photo book 'The Good Citizen'.
Highlights of our conversation:

• The connection between personal heritage and storytelling.
• Navigating the complexities of identity and belonging in photography.
• The balance between aesthetics and ethics.
• Challenging stereotypes and finding universal connections.
• The nuanced art of photographing power and privilege.
• The significance of compelling narratives in shaping perceptions.
• Insights into Benjamin's book, "The Good Citizen".
• Strategies for community engagement and distribution of photographic work.

Find Benjamin Rasmussen's work on his channels:
Website: www.benjaminrasmussenphoto.com
Instagram: @benjaminras
Referenced book in the conversation:
'The Good Citizen'
https://benjaminrasmussenphoto.com/The-Good-Citizen
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Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

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

What does it take to capture the most important images of the biggest day of peoples lives?

Gigi de Manio is an acclaimed wedding photographer renowned for her ability to capture raw, emotional, and timeless moments. With a background in psychology, she brings a deep understanding of human connection to her work, ensuring every image tells a meaningful story. The discussion highlights the emotional complexities of wedding photography, the significance of pre-production, and the empowering nature of community support among creatives. Over her 25-year career, Gigi has established herself in the luxury wedding market, working with high-profile clients and event planners worldwide. She is also the author of Silver: Moments into Memories, a retrospective of her career in wedding photography.

What we discussed:

• The journey from psychology to photography.
• Emphasis on emotional connection with subjects.
• Importance of pre-production and understanding clients.
• Challenges in the age of social media.
• Community support and networking among photographers.
• Continuous learning and evolving as an artist.
• Future aspirations and desire for meaningful storytelling.

Find Gigi de Manio's work on her channels:
Website: www.demaniophotography.com
Instagram: @gigidemanio
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Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

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

"Life leaves marks etched within us" - how do we turn those marks into purpose?

Indi Casa is a filmmaker and photographer whose work bridges the gap between visual storytelling and commercial videography. His upcoming documentary, Indyquay, is an unfiltered exploration of his personal journey—retracing his past, seeking his roots, and capturing the raw essence of human connection. Through stunning cinematography and immersive storytelling, Indy documents his search for family, identity, and meaning.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Indi's transition from commercial filmmaking to a documentary storytelling.
• Challenges in documentary filming.
• Navigating the ethical responsibilities of filmmaking.
• The challenges of telling deeply personal stories in extreme environments.
• Insights into editing and structure of a documentary
• How to approach storytelling in commercial work versus documentaries.
• Thoughts on the importance of sharing one’s story.

Find Indi Casa's work on his channels:
Website: www.indi-casa.com
Instagram: @indi_casa
You Tube: @indicasa9502

_____________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

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

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
____________________________________________________

Message me, leave a comment and join in the conversation!

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